Nov. 15, 1999

University of Kentucky strong safety Patrick Wiggins has beennamed Southeastern Conference Defensive Player of the Week by the leagueoffice in honor of his performance in UK’s 19-17 win over Vanderbiltlast Saturday in Nashville.

Wiggins, a sophomore walk-on from Suwanee, Ga., who was makinghis first collegiate start, made seven tackles, including two tacklesfor minus-6 yards of losses. He added an interception, a pass breakup,and caused a fumble.

Wiggins made three big plays during the game. His interception,the first of his career, ended Vanderbilt’s first possession of thegame. In the second quarter, he made a crucial stop on a third-and-goalplay at the UK one-yard line, forcing the Commodores to attempt a fieldgoal. With 2:21 remaining in the game, and Vanderbilt driving for apotential game-winning field goal, Wiggins preserved the victory byknocking loose a fumble on the UK 30-yard line.

Wiggins is the second Wildcat this season who has earned SECDefensive Player of the Week honors. Free safety Anthony Wajda wasselected following UK’s win over Louisiana State.