Ryan graded out at 94 percent overall — matching his highest mark of the season — while helping WKU record 443 total yards against the league’s leading defense entering the contest in the Hilltoppers’ 27-24 victory over nationally ranked Southern Illinois. The 6-foot-4, 285-pound junior from Murray, Ky., had a 94 percent factor grade and nine knockdown blocks against the Salukis, as he was not called for a penalty and did not allow a sack or quarterback pressure.
Not only did Ryan’s efforts allow Lerron Moore to post the 21st 100-yard game of his career, but Justin Haddix was able to throw for 268 yards and a score as WKU had two 100-yard receivers in the same contest for the first time since November 1985.
Ryan — who initially picked up the league’s award for the first time following the Hilltoppers’ season finale a year ago — was also named Hansen’s Football Gazette’s national Offensive Lineman of the Week after “The Battle of the Bluegrass” last month.
He and the Toppers are next in action Saturday, when WKU plays host to Indiana State (1-7, 1-3 Gateway) at 4 p.m. (CDT) on Homecoming weekend. The Hilltoppers have won their last 10 meetings with the Sycamores.
