Keith Jackson Named SEC Defensive Lineman of the Week

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Arkansas defensive tackle Keith Jackson Jr. has been named Southeastern Conference Defensive Lineman of the Week it was announced by the league office on Monday.

Jackson also earned the Crip Hall Award, presented annually to the most outstanding Razorback senior in the Homecoming game, for his performance in Arkansas’ 63-7 win over Southeast Missouri State. The Little Rock, Ark., native tallied four tackles, two quarterback hurries and one sack (-10) in the Hogs’ fifth victory of the season. He helped spearhead a UA defense that yielded only 144 yards of total offense including 31 yards rushing.

In addition, Jackson provided perhaps the most entertaining play of the day when he intercepted a pass and returned it 69 yards for a touchdown in the second quarter. The pick was the first interception by the Razorbacks this season and was the longest interception return for a touchdown since linebacker Jermaine Petty raced 88 yards for a touchdown against Auburn in 2001.

“I am so proud of Keith and what he is doing on our defensive front,” Arkansas head coach Houston Nutt said. “He has been a tremendous team leader and has picked up his game to a new level in his senior season. It was great to see him rewarded for his hard work with a touchdown. He flashed back to his fullback days and made a great run.”

The award was the second in as many weeks for Jackson after the senior captured Walter Camp National Defensive Player of the Week honors following the Hogs’ upset of No. 2 Auburn. Jackson became the second-consecutive Razorback to win SEC defensive lineman of the week honors. Junior defensive end Jamaal Anderson won the award last week for his play against Auburn.