ODESSA, Texas (September 2, 2024) – UT Permian Basin sophomore linebacker Tristan Exline and freshman kicker Angel Diaz have been named as the Lone Star Conference Defensive Player of the Week and Special Teams Player of the Week, respectively, after their "Week 0" performances in the Falcons' 41-3 home victory over Western New Mexico University on Saturday, August 31.

On the defensive side of the ball, Exline had two sacks to lead a unit that did not allow a touchdown and surrendered just 118 yards of total offense. Exline also had four tackles – two solo and 2.5 for a loss of eight yards – to help UTPB hold WNMU to just 1-for-12 on third-down conversions. Exline and the defending LSC champions shut out WNMU in the second half.

Another one of the top standouts in UTPB's season-opening win came on special teams as Diaz was 4-for-4 on field goals – including a long of 47 yards – and made all three of his extra points. Diaz, who made one field goal in each quarter, was also good from 32, 36 and 25 yards.

Next up for UTPB (1-0) will be its first road game of the season at Colorado State University Pueblo (1-0) at 6 p.m. Mountain Time / 7 p.m. Central Time on Saturday, September 7, in Pueblo, Colorado.

LSC Football Release – Week 0