ETSU linebacker sets program record with 23 tackles at The Citadel  

SPARTANBURG, S.C. (Sept. 12, 2022) – Following a record-setting performance last Saturday at The Citadel, ETSU redshirt freshman linebacker Chandler Martin (Lithonia, Ga.) was named Southern Conference Defensive Player of the Week, announced by the league office on Monday.

Martin totaled 23 tackles in the Bucs’ 20-17 setback at The Citadel, breaking nearly a 30-year-old record of 22 held by Nakia Thomas, set in 1993 against Appalachian State. The Lithonia, Ga. native posted three solo tackles and 20 assisted hits to go with one tackle for loss. Martin opened the first quarter with six tackles and notched seven hits in both the second and third quarters. Martin notched his 23rd and record-breaking tackle on the Bulldogs’ final drive, coming on a two-yard run up the middle by Sam Llewellyn.

Martin entered the game with 13 total tackles in nine games played. The 23 tackles are the most by a SoCon player since Western Carolina’s Rock Williams totaled 24 tackles at The Citadel back on Oct. 13, 2012.

The 23 tackles are tied for the most by an FCS and FBS player this season as Delaware’s Johnny Buchanan had 23 against Navy on Sept. 3.

ETSU gears up for its SoCon home opener this Saturday when the Bucs take on Furman. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. inside Greene Stadium.

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