BRIDGEWATER, N.J. - Redshirt junior quarterback Luca Stanzani was named NEC Offensive Player of the Week, redshirt junior defensive back Trey Watkins was named Defensive Player of the Week, and freshman wide receiver Jayden Simpson was named Rookie of the Week after standout performances in Saturday's win over the University of New Haven, the conference announced on Monday. Additionally, redshirt junior running back O'Shawn Ross, Jr. was earned NEC Prime Performer recognition.

Stanzani earned offensive player of the week honors for the second time this season after accounting for five touchdowns on Saturday. He rushed for 98 yards and four touchdowns on 20 attempts, while also throwing for 152 yards and a TD on 15 of 26 passing. Stanzani's four rushing touchdowns tied for the most in a game this season by a Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) player.

Watkins garnered defensive player of the week honors for the first time, after forcing two turnovers that generated LIU touchdowns. In total, Watkins recorded five tackles (3 solo, 2 assisted), including .5 tackle for loss, with a forced fumble and an interception, his team-leading third of the season.

Simpson earned his first NEC weekly honor after totaling four receptions for 42 yards, both career highs. Simpson's 33-yard touchdown catch near the end of the second quarter was the first TD of his collegiate career.

Ross compiled a career-high 172 yards rushing on 17 carries, with an average of 10.1 yards per carry, notching his third 100-yard rushing game of the season and his second in a row. The performance earned Ross a prime performer nod for the third time this season.

The Sharks return to action on Saturday, Nov. 1, at Central Connecticut State University. Opening kickoff is scheduled for 12 p.m. Television coverage will be available digitally on NEC Front Row, with radio coverage available on the LIU Sharks Audio Network via the Varsity Network App beginning at 11:30 a.m.