Sept. 8, 2003

VILLANOVA, PA. - On Monday, Sept. 8 three Villanova Wildcats were honored by the Atlantic 10 for their efforts in Saturday's upset win over Temple. Sophomore quarterback Joe Casamento was named Co-Offensive Player of the Week for the second consecutive week, while freshman safety Allyn Bacchus earned Rookie of the Week honors and sophomore placekicker Adam James was named Co-Special Teams Player of the Week.

Casamento was honored last week for his performance against Hampton in his first collegiate start. This time, it was the sophomore quarterback's performance against a I-A team that led to the weekly distinction. In the Wildcats' 23-20 double overtime win, Casamento completed 28-of-37 passes for a career-high 347 yards and two touchdowns. His scoring throws were two yards to Phil DiGiacomo and five yards to Noble Champen.

For the season, Casamento has completed 78 percent of his passes for 599 yards and five touchdowns. He shares Offensive Player of the Week honors with Northeastern wide receiver Cory Parks.

Bacchus, a true freshman, was in the starting lineup for the second consecutive week at strong safety, and tallied eleven tackles, six unassisted. He also had one tackle for a loss against the Owls. For the season, Bacchus leads the team in tackles with 20.

James shares Special Teams Player of the Week honors with New Hampshire punter Josh Polgar. He was a perfect 3-for-3 in field goal attempts, including the game-winner from 37 yards out in the second overtime. James's other field goals were from 20 and 31 yards.

The Wildcats (2-0) are back in action Saturday, Sept. 13 at noon for their Atlantic 10 Conference opener at New Hampshire.