October 4, 1999
Release: Upon Receipt

FURMAN'S JOHN KEITH NAMED SOUTHERN
CONFERENCE DEFENSIVE PLAYER-OF-THE-WEEK

GREENVILLE -- Furman University free safety John Keith has been named Southern Conference Defensive Player-of-the-Week for his performance in the Paladins's 27-19 win over Western Carolina in Cullowhee on Saturday.

Keith, a senior from Newnan, Ga., registered a team high 12 tackles, including a tackle-for-loss, two interceptions, and a pass deflection in helping Furman to its third straight win. His first interception halted a Western Carolina scoring threat at the Furman 25, and his second pickoff set up the Paladins' first touchdown of the game.

"John's play was critical in our win over Western Carolina," said head coach Bobby Johnson. "He stepped up and made several big plays, and that's what we expect out of player of his ability and experience. He makes us a much better team when he is on the field."

Keith's league player-of-the-week selection is the third for Furman this season. Last week quarterback Billy Napier was named Southern Conference Freshman-of-the-Wee for his play in the Paladins' 58-0 rout of VMI, and two weeks ago Paladin sophomore linebacker Will Bouton garnered conference defensive player-of-the-week honors for his work in Furman's 52-6 win over William & Mary.

Furman (3-1; 2-0 SoCon) returns to action this Saturday when it hosts Southern Conference foe Appalachian State (3-1; 2-0 SoCon) at Paladin Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 2:00 p.m.