Perich continues to impress for Gophers

University of Minnesota first-year player Koi Perich was honored as the “Big Ten Freshman of the Week” after Minnesota’s 48-23 football win against Maryland Oct. 26.

Esko’s Perich posted his Big-Ten-leading fifth interception of the season in the game, taking it 45 yards and setting up a field goal. Perich also made three tackles in the win.

Perich’s five interceptions are tied for fourth most in a season in the Gopher record book, and it was his third-straight game with an interception.

Perich also returned three punts for 31 yards, including a 20-yarder, against Maryland. Of his 12 punt returns this season, four have now gone for at least 20 yards.

Perich is the first Gopher to be named “Freshman of the Week” since defensive back Kerry Brown was recognized on Sept. 16. Perich was also named “Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week” after the Gophers’ win over USC on Oct. 12.