Virginia Union University's Jada Byers was named the CIAA Offensive Back of the Week while VUU's Bryan Gibson was named CIAA Offensive Lineman of the Week, the CIAA announced on Monday, September 19.

Byers earned CIAA Offensive Back of the Week honors for the third consecutive time to start the 2022 season. In the 42-6 win, Byers rushed for 199 yards and two touchdowns on 26 carries for an average of 7.7 yards a tote. His first score came in the first quarter on a five-yard rush to give the Panthers a 14-0 lead and his second came in the third, extending VUU's lead to 35-6.

Gibson is the veteran on an offensive line that helped the Panthers gain 396 yards of total offense, including 324 rushing yards and five touchdowns. Virginia Union averaged 6.2 yards per carry on 52 total attempts in the 42-6 win over conference foe Livingstone. The Panthers also scored five touchdowns in six redzone trips and surrendered just one sack on 16 passing attempts.

"Byers is definitely making a name for himself both in the league and in the country," said VUU Head Football Coach Dr. Alvin Parker.  "Gibson has played extremely well to start the season. Both are staples in our program so I expect more accolades to come their way"

Virginia Union will meet Fayetteville State University at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 24, in Fayetteville, N.C.