WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — West Liberty University senior running back Hunter Patterson has been named the D2Football.com Offensive Player of the Week for Week Seven of the 2026 season after delivering a record-breaking performance in the Hilltoppers' 41-21 Homecoming victory over West Virginia Wesleyan.

Patterson becomes the second West Liberty player to earn D2Football.com weekly recognition this season, joining linebacker Dominic Maultsby, who was named the site's Defensive Player of the Week for Week Four.

Patterson turned in one of the most remarkable performances in program history Saturday, rushing for a school-record 359 yards and three touchdowns on 26 carries. He broke the previous single-game rushing record of 348 yards, set by Derrick Stickles against West Virginia State on Nov. 8, 2003.

The Chester, West Virginia, native scored on touchdown runs of 98, 29 and 50 yards while also rewriting the Hilltoppers' career record book. Patterson now holds West Liberty's career records for total touchdowns with 52 and total points scored with 314.

Patterson's production has placed him among the nation's top rushing threats. Through Week Seven, he ranked second in NCAA Division II in total rushing yards with 1,353 and rushing yards per game at 193. He was also tied for third nationally with 14 rushing touchdowns, joining just three other running backs who had surpassed 1,000 rushing yards on the season.

Patterson and the Hilltoppers, who improved to 6-1 overall and 4-0 in Mountain East Conference play with the win over West Virginia Wesleyan, return to action Saturday, Oct. 24, with a road matchup against 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.