A-State’s Jordan Sample Named Sun Belt Special Teams Player of the Week

Arkansas State linebacker Jordan Sample has been named the Sun Belt Conference Special Teams Player of the Week after delivering two game-changing plays in the Red Wolves’ dramatic 30-29 win over App State on Saturday.

Sample, a redshirt sophomore from Missouri City, Texas, made his presence felt in a pivotal second quarter that helped Arkansas State erase a 13-3 deficit and ultimately secure bowl eligibility for the third straight season.

With App State lining up for a 43-yard field goal, Sample broke through and blocked the kick, swinging momentum toward the Red Wolves. Just moments later, he pounced on a muffed kickoff return, giving A-State prime field position deep in Mountaineer territory.

Those two special teams plays helped the Red Wolves tie the game 16-16 by halftime — a turnaround that proved crucial in the one-point victory.

The Red Wolves (6–6, 4–3 SBC) now await their bowl destination, which will be announced on Dec. 7.