Panthers' Donald Russell named CAA Player of the Week

Georgia State running back Donald Russell was named the Colonial Athletic Association Offensive Player of the Week for his 201 rushing yards in a 41-7 win over Rhode Island on Saturday, according to the AJC:

Coach Bill Curry said one of the keys to Russell's big day was the wide receivers did a better job blocking for him downfield. Curry said the Panthers also blocked a little big differently because of Rhode Island's schemes.

"Donald's been running the ball well all year," Curry said.

Russell also had three touchdowns in the win, including a 35-yard catch in the first quarter to put Georgia State up 7-0. Russell finished with 236 all-purpose yards, which is a Georgia State record.

The senior from West Palm Beach, Fla. leads the Panthers with 743 rushing yards on 115 carries this season. He is averaging 106.1 yards per game.

Russell is the first offensive player to earn weekly honors for Georgia State. Punter Matt Hubbard earned special teams honors earlier in the year.

Georgia State hosts Villanova on Saturday.