ASU’s Cardae Mack Earns Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Week Honor

TEMPE, Ariz. — Arizona State running back Cardae Mack has been named the Shaun Alexander Freshman Player of the Week after rushing for 159 yards and four touchdowns in the Sun Devils’ 28–17 victory over Kansas State, according to the Maxwell Football Club’s announcement.

The true freshman carried the ball 26 times, averaging 6.1 yards per attempt, and accounted for all four Arizona State touchdowns. His performance included a 30-yard touchdown run.

A Historic Performance for Arizona State

Mack became the first Sun Devil to score four rushing touchdowns in a game since Kalen Ballage in 2016. He also became the first Arizona State freshman to accomplish the feat since Leon Burton in 1955, according to the announcement.

His 159 rushing yards were the most by an ASU true freshman running back since 2005. Both his rushing yardage and touchdown totals were season highs allowed by Kansas State.

Across his last two home games, Mack has totaled 313 rushing yards and six rushing touchdowns, establishing himself as a key contributor to the Sun Devils’ offense.

About the Award

The Maxwell Football Club recognizes an outstanding college freshman each week during the season through the Shaun Alexander Freshman Player of the Week award. Players can earn the honor for performances on offense, defense, or special teams and do not need to appear on the preseason watch list.

The annual Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award recognizes college football’s most outstanding freshman. Named for Alexander since 2018, the award evaluates candidates through four pillars: Talent, Character, Ambassador, and Legend.