Virginia Union University's Jada Byers and Armonii Burden were named the CIAA Offensive Back of the Week and the Defensive Lineman of the Week, respectively, it was announced on Monday, October 10.

Byers recorded 29 carries for 205 yards and two touchdowns. The sophomore had scores of one yard and six yards in the first half to help defeat Elizabeth City State, 49-0, in conference play. The Hammonton, NJ native also returned a kickoff 29 yards. He averaged 7.1 yards per carry, his longest rush was 31 yards, and he had 14 of his 28 rushes result in a Panthers' first down or touchdown. This is the sixth consecutive time that Byers has claimed conference player of the week honors and this is the second time that he topped 200 yards rushing this season.

Burden had a season-high eight total tackles in the Panthers' 49-0 win over Elizabeth City State. The redshirt junior had five solo tackles, 1.5 stops for a loss, and a sack. Five of his tackles resulted in gains of two yards or less and both of his assisted sacks came on third downs. The Williamsburg, VA native was an integral piece in the shutout and holding the Vikings to just 90 yards of total offense and 1.5 yards per play.

"Those two guys had great homecoming performances," said VUU Head Football Coach Dr. Alvin Parker.  "Byers paced our offense and Burden paced our defense. I'm happy to see these two hardworking student-athletes receive this weekly honor from the CIAA".

Virginia Union is currently ranked #11 in the nation by the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA).

The Panthers will play Bowie State University at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 15, in Bowie, Md.