The Mid-States Football Association (MSFA) Mideast League announced their weekly awards Monday afternoon and Alex Hinojosa has been named the defensive player of the week, while Casey Rauch was named special teams player of the week. Both players played key roles in the Cardinals' season opening win over #22 Siena Heights.

Hinojosa set up the Cardinals' first score with an interception during Siena's second possession. The Cardinals would take it down to the 13 and kick a field goal for the early 3-0 lead with 10:14 in the first quarter. The senior captain hurried the Saints' quarterback early in the fourth quarter, leading to Concordia's second interception, this time coming from Ryan Fish. Finally, on Siena's final drive of the game Hinojosa and Treyon Freeman combined for a sack on second down. Hinojosa finished with 6 tackles on the day.

Freshman Casey Rauch's punting efforts helped the Cardinals maintain efficient field position during the game. Rauch placed 3 punts inside the 20 yard line. Rauch's longest put was 52 yards long and he averaged 35.9 yards on his seven punts. Rauch also started at linebacker for the Cardinals and led the team in tackles with 8. It was Rauch's fourth down sack late in the final quarter that sealed the deal for the Cardinal victory.

This is second time in Hinojosa's Cardinal career that he has received MSFA Defensive Player of the Week honors after receiving it in week one last year. Hinojosa and Rauch are the first Cardinals to be recognized this season.

The Cardinals return to action on Saturday, March 6th when they play host to second ranked Marian. Kickoff is set for 1pm at the Cardinal Stadium.