Ex-Plant standout Kuzdale earns weekly conference honor

Posted Nov 16, 2009 by Adam Adkins

Updated Nov 16, 2009 at 04:28 PM

Charleston Southern defensive back Chris Kuzdale, a former Plant High standout, was named the Big South Conference’s Defensive Player of the Week following his performance in the Buccaneers’ 30-27 overtime victory Saturday against Stony Brook.

Kuzdale, a sophomore, had two interceptions in the win, which tied a Charleston Southern program record. Kuzdale’s first interception of the game occurred in the end zone of the near the end of the first half, which helped the Bucs go into the break with a 20-17 lead. His second interception occurred on the first play of overtime, which ultimately helped Charleston Southern win.

On the season, Kuzdale has 54 tackles and a team-best three interceptions. This is the first conference honor for Kuzdale in his collegiate career.

Kuzdale helped the Panthers win the Class 4A state title as a senior in 2006. He had two big interceptions in the region final win over Armwood - both of which were returned for touchdowns - and had a big interception in the end zone late in the title-game victory over Ponte Vedra Beach Nease.