Conner, Clemmings earn ACC weekly honors

Despite a 51-48 loss to the Duke Blue Devils this past weekend at Heinz Field, the Atlantic Coast Conference recognized two players on the Pitt football team Monday for outstanding performances. Sophomore running back James Conner was named the ACC co-offensive back of the week, while senior offensive tackle T.J. Clemmings was named the conference’s co-offensive lineman of the week.

Conner, who shared the weekly award with Florida State quarterback Jameis Winston, was honored for his dominating performance Saturday afternoon, during which he set career highs in carries (38) and rushing yards (263) while scoring three touchdowns and averaging 6.9 yards per carry. This is the third time this season that Conner has won the award.

Conner was also named a semifinalist for the Maxwell Award, which is given out each season to the top college football player in the nation by a panel of media members, coaches and former players. The sophomore currently leads the nation in rushing yards with 1,342 and ranks third in touchdowns with 17.

Clemmings shared his honor with Florida State offensive tackle Cameron Erving. Clemmings — who has been cited as a potential first round pick by ESPN’s Todd McShay and CBS’ Dane Brugler — was strong in both run and pass protection against the Blue Devils, opening holes for Conner while giving quarterback Chad Voytik ample time to throw. This is also Clemmings’ third time taking home the accolade.

After this week’s bye, both look to continue their strong performances next Saturday when the team travels to Chapel Hill to play the North Carolina Tar Heels.