Seniors Louie Blasiole and A.J. DeSousa named OAC Football Offensive and Defensive Players of the Week

By Marissa Myers

ADA — Ohio Northern seniors Louie Blasiole (Mantua/Crestwood) and A.J. DeSousa (DeBary, Fla./University) were named the Ohio Athletic Conference Football Offensive and Defensive Players of the Week for the week of Sept. 22-28.

This marks the first career OAC Player of the Week accolade for both Blasiole and DeSousa.

The recognition for Blasiole comes after running a career-high 32 times for 139 yards and three touchdowns in a 41-35 victory over Wilmington on Saturday.

Blasiole leads the team in total rushing attempts (69), total yards (327), yards per game (109.0) and touchdowns (6).

In the OAC, Blasiole is tied for the lead in total touchdowns, second in attempts, fourth in yards per game, and fifth in total yards.

In his career, Blasiole has 1,743 total yards, which ranks 19th on ONU's all-time career rushing list.

The recognition for DeSousa comes after intercepting a pass near the goal line to seal ONU's win over Wilmington on Saturday. He was also second on the team with eight tackles in the game, including five solo.

DeSousa leads the team with two interceptions and is third on the team with 15 total tackles on the season.

DeSousa is tied for the lead in the OAC in interceptions.

The Polar Bears (2-1 Overall, 2-0 OAC) return to action on Saturday when they host Marietta in a 2 p.m. contest at Dial-Roberson Stadium as part of Homecoming Weekend.