Emiliano Salazar and Zamar Reese of the University of San Diego were named Pioneer Football League Players of the Week following their performances in the Toreros’ 40-17 win at Drake Stadium in Des Moines, Iowa, on November 7, 2026.
Salazar, a junior kicker and punter from Orange, California, earned the PFL Special Teams Player of the Week honor. He made four field goals from 40 yards or longer and successfully converted all four extra-point attempts, scoring 16 points. Salazar also averaged 57.1 yards on nine kickoffs, registering three touchbacks. This recognition marks the fourth Special Teams Player of the Week award in his career. Salazar was previously named the 2025 PFL Special Teams Player of the Year.
Freshman running back Zamar Reese from San Marcos, California, was named the PFL Freshman of the Week. He rushed 11 times for 88 yards and scored two touchdowns, including a significant 52-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter. Reese was a key contributor on multiple drives, helping the Toreros secure control and extend their lead during the game.
The victory improved the University of San Diego’s record to 5-5 overall and 4-3 in the Pioneer Football League. It was the team’s first win over Drake since 2022.
CSB Take
Emiliano Salazar’s consistent and accurate kicking from long distance paired with Zamar Reese’s impressive rushing performance illustrate the strengths that helped the University of San Diego secure an important Pioneer Football League win. Salazar’s reliability in scoring and Reese’s emergence as a dynamic offensive weapon provide the Toreros with strong assets as they approach the end of the regular season. Maintaining this momentum will be crucial for the team as it prepares for upcoming games and looks to finish the season on a high note.
Source: Original report
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