Sept. 6, 2004

LAWRENCE, Kan. -- After blocking two punts against the University of Tulsa, Kansas wide receiver Brandon Rideau was named the SBC Big 12 Conference Special Teams Player of the Week. The weekly award winners are voted upon by a select panel of media covering the Big 12.

Rideau, a wide receiver who also excels on special teams, blocked a pair of punts in KU's 21-3 win over Tulsa as the Jayhawks allowed the fewest points in their season-opener since a 24-0 shutout over UAB in 1997. He also recovered and returned one of the punts 19 yards to give Kansas key field position while catching three passes for 27 yards from his wide receiver post.

Rideau, a native of Beaumont, Texas, finished second on the team last season with 51 receptions and was third on the club with 677 receiving yards.

Vernand Morency of Oklahoma State was named the Offensive Player of the Week and linebacker Derrick Johnson of Texas was the defensive recipient.

Rideau and the Jayhawks (1-0) host the University of Toledo (0-1) on Sept. 11. Kickoff from KU's Memorial Stadium is set for 6 p.m.