HELENA, Mont. – Following a standout defensive performance in Eastern Oregon University Football's thrilling 49-45 Homecoming victory over Southern Oregon, Payton Howe has been named the Frontier Conference ERCK Hotels Defensive Player of the Week.

Howe was a difference-maker on the defensive side of the ball, consistently disrupting the Raiders' offense and making key plays when the Mountaineers needed them most. He finished the game with seven total tackles, including five solo stops and two assisted tackles. Howe also recorded a tackle for loss and broke up two passes.

His biggest moment came with a game-changing 54-yard interception return for a touchdown. The defensive score provided a crucial spark for the Mountaineers

The honor marks Howe's first career ERCK Hotels / Frontier Conference Player of the Week award, recognizing his impact in one of the Mountaineers' most exciting victories of the season.