BRIDGEPORT, W.Va. — West Liberty University running back Hunter Patterson has been named the Mountain East Conference Offensive Player of the Week, presented by The Health Plan, for the second time this season after delivering a record-breaking performance in the Hilltoppers' 41-21 Homecoming victory over West Virginia Wesleyan on Saturday.

Patterson rushed for a school-record 359 yards and three touchdowns on 26 carries to help West Liberty improve to 6-1 overall and 4-0 in MEC play. His performance broke the previous single-game rushing record of 348 yards, set by Derrick Stickles against West Virginia State on Nov. 8, 2003.

Patterson made history early and often against the Bobcats, breaking free for touchdown runs of 98, 29 and 50 yards. His 98-yard scoring run came after the Hilltoppers recovered a West Virginia Wesleyan fumble at the West Liberty 2-yard line, giving the Hilltoppers a 14-0 lead.

The record-setting afternoon also saw Patterson move to the top of West Liberty's career record book in two categories. He became the program's all-time leader in career touchdowns with 52 and career scoring with 314 points.
Patterson credited the team's preparation and execution while keeping his focus on the Hilltoppers' next challenge.

"I didn't think I had that much, but when I said it, I was like, 'Oh, wow,'" Patterson said of his 359-yard performance. "But that means nothing to me. It's on to next week, and hopefully we can do it again."

Head coach Chad Salisbury praised the offensive line and the game plan that helped Patterson take advantage of running lanes throughout the contest.

"It's a credit to the O-line, too," Salisbury said. "Coach Hamilton's plan was really good, but our O-line blocked their butts off."

West Liberty rushed for 362 yards as a team and scored three touchdowns on the ground. The Hilltoppers also forced five turnovers, recovering four fumbles and recording an interception, to secure their fourth consecutive Mountain East Conference victory.

Patterson and the Hilltoppers return to action Saturday, Oct. 24, when they travel to face Glenville State. Kickoff is scheduled for 1:30 p.m.



West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students' aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.