NDSU's Lechler MVFC Offensive Lineman of the Week

ST. LOUIS - North Dakota State right tackle Landon Lechler was named Missouri Valley Football Conference Offensive Lineman of the Week by the league office Monday, Sept. 19.

Lechler had a 100% assignment grade and led the Bison offensive line with 88% finish and 85% technique grades in NDSU's 23-21 win over the 11th-ranked Iowa Hawkeyes. He had five knockdowns and did not allow a sack or quarterback hurry in 70 snaps.

NDSU rushed for 239 yards and averaged 4.9 yards per carry while outgaining the Hawkeyes 363-231 in total yardage.  The Bison pulled within 21-20 with a 15-play, 80-yard drive that ate 8:39 off the clock before getting a three-and-out on defense to set up the game-winning drive.

North Dakota State (3-0) is idle this week before opening the MVFC schedule against two-time defending league co-champion Illinois State (2-1) in the annual homecoming game at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 1.  The Redbirds are coming off a home loss to Eastern Illinois and open conference play this week at Indiana State.