Oct. 17, 2001
Cullowhee, N.C. - Western Carolina long snapper Erik Laney has been named NCAA I-AA National Co-Offensive Lineman of the Week by Don Hansen's National Weekly Football Gazette for his contributions in helping the Catamounts defeat Wofford last Saturday (Oct. 13).
Laney (Murphy, N.C./Murphy) played a key role in the Cats' special teams success versus the Terriers. Western, who had punts blocked on consecutive weeks, did not have a punt blocked versus Wofford and averaged a season-best 46.0 yards per punt. Laney, who had two tackles on Western's six punts, also snapped flawlessly on WCU's two field goal and four extra point attempts.
Laney did not play in Western's first five games, but was welcomed back to the team for the Wofford contest. The senior decided to fulfill his student-teaching requirements at his high school alma mater and forego his final season as the Catamounts were preparing for the 2001 season. However, due to a broken hand by starting middle linebacker/deep snapper Rod Dunlap and lack of depth at the position, Head Coach Bill Bleil called Laney during the week and asked if he would return as the team's deep snapper. Laney's schedule permitted him to join the team and he is expected to play at Chattanooga.
Western will face the Mocs on Thursday (Oct. 18) before a television audience. Kickoff at UTC's Finley Stadium is set for 7:00 p.m., and the contest will be broadcast on Comcast/Charter Sports Southeast.
