Jones Named BIG EAST Special Teams Player of the Week
Oct 28 | Football
Jones, who hails from Scotch Plains, N.J., was a dominant force on special teams for the Scarlet Knights in their game at Syracuse on Saturday (Oct. 26). With 4:54 remaining in the third quarter, Jones raced 100 yards with a kickoff return for a touchdown. Earlier in the contest, the junior from Scotch Plains, N.J., blocked an 18-yard field Syracuse field goal attempt, which was scooped up by Rutgers teammate Brandon Haw, who returned it 90 yards to give the Scarlet Knights a 7-0 lead.
The 100-yard kickoff return was the second for Jones this season, and tied his mark for the longest KOR in Rutgers history. Jones has become the first Rutgers player in 14 years to return two kickoffs for TDs in the same season with his effort against Syracuse, and became the first player to return two kickoffs for 100-yards or more in the same season for the Scarlet Knights. Former Scarlet Knight Ron Allen returned two kickoffs for scores in the 1988 season, a 92-yarder vs. West Virginia and a 94-yarder vs. Cincinnati.
Earlier this season against Tennessee, Jones returned the opening kickoff of the game 100 yards for a touchdown. The 100-yard kickoff returns against Tennessee and Syracuse tie five other players as the best in the BIG EAST record book.
Jones is the BIG EAST leader in kickoff returns, and is ranked fourth nationally, averaging 29.6 yards per kick return. Also a starter at cornerback, Jones is third on the team with 58 tackles. He has intercepted one pass, has broken up five passes and recovered two fumbles.
Jones shares Special Teams “Player of the Week” honors in the BIG EAST with David Abdul of Pittsburgh. The Scarlet Knights return to action on Nov. 2 when they host top-ranked Miami at Rutgers Stadium. Kickoff is at noon.
