Nov. 14, 2005

Charleston, SC - Quarterback Ben Carnell, who made his first career start this past Saturday when The Citadel shutout Elon, 21-0, has been named the Southern Conference's Freshman of the Week.

In addition, the league recognized Appalachian State's Richie Williams with the Offensive Player of the Week honor while teammate Marques Murrell earned defensive recognition.

Carnell, a 6-2, 205-pound quarterback from Hanahan, led the Bulldogs offensively with two first-half touchdown passes. The true freshman earned his first career start after beginning the season on the scout team. At one point, the coaches considered redshirting him. But against Elon, Carnell was 14-of-20 passing for 152 yards in his debut, and earned the team's Hero Award for his effort.

"Ben had a very good performance," said first-year Citadel coach Kevin Higgins. "He had a slow start but he kept his poise.

"He had several third-and-long situations that he completed and they led us to scores," he added.

Carnell's two touchdown passes were of 20 yards to TE Aaron Kelly and 18 yards to WR Ta'Mar Jernigan. Carnell played the entire game.

"Ben is a smart kid who understands the game plan, and he is very poised in the pocket. He has great leadership skills, and has earned the respect of the team with his work ethic and how he handles himself."

Carnell is the Bulldogs' fourth starting quarterback this season, following sophomore Duran Lawson and redshirt freshmen Justin Knox and Steve Tumbleston. Carnell is slated to start Saturday in the Military Classic of the South as The Citadel visits long-time rival VMI in Lexington, VA.

This is the third time this season that the Southern Conference has recognized a Citadel football player. After the Western Carolina game, linebacker Porter Johnson was named the Defensive Player of the Week and after the Wofford game, linebacker Andrew Rowell earned the same distinction.