BURNSVILLE, Minn. – Southwest Minnesota State University junior safety Hunter Bohannon has been named the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference Defensive Player of the Week following his performance in SMSU's 28-23 season-opening road victory over Minot State University last Thursday night.
 
Bohannon, a 5-foot-11, 189-pound native of Del Mar, Calif., forced two fumbles, recovering one, recorded three solo tackles and one pass break-up in the Mustangs' come-from-behind win. With SMSU trailing 17-7 in the third quarter, Bohannon's first forced fumble ended a Minot State drive at the SMSU 22-yard line. SMSU would score on the ensuing drive to cut the deficit to 17-14.
 
The SMSU defense held MSU scoreless for nearly the entire second half helping the Mustangs score 28 straight points to build a 28-17 lead. MSU's final touchdown came with 37 seconds remaining in the game.
 
It's the second time Bohannon has earned the award in his career. He also earned the award on Sept. 27, 2021.  
 
Bohannon is a 2021 graduate of Westview High School.
 
SMSU, 1-0 overall, will have its home opener this Saturday facing No. 11 ranked Bemidji State University for the annual Ag Bowl, presented by Ralco, with kickoff set for 5 p.m.