McLean County Times

Illinois State wide receiver Xavier Loyd has been recognized as the Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC) Newcomer of the Week for the second time this season. This recognition follows his performance in Illinois State's recent victory over Indiana State.

Loyd is among other players honored by the conference this week, including running back Charles Pierre Jr. from South Dakota and quarterback Beau Brungard from Youngstown State, who were named Co-Offensive Players of the Week. Matthew Durrance from South Dakota State received the Defensive Player of the Week title, while Griffin Crosa from North Dakota State was acknowledged as Special Teams Player of the Week.

In the game against Indiana State, Loyd came close to breaking a school record with 13 receptions, just one short of tying Illinois State's single-game mark. He accumulated 94 yards and scored an eight-yard touchdown reception early in the second quarter, contributing to a series of 31 unanswered points for Illinois State.

As a Kansas State transfer, Loyd ranks second on his team with 52 receptions, totaling 732 receiving yards and four touchdowns. His average stands at 14.4 yards per reception.

Illinois State will conclude its regular season on Saturday at Hancock Stadium against North Dakota for Senior Day, with kickoff scheduled for Noon CT.

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