Nov. 10, 2008

LAS VEGAS - UNLV true freshman defensive back and kick returner Deante' Purvis (Pinole, Calif./Pinole Valley HS) has been named the Mountain West Conference Special Teams Player of the Week after he made two big plays in the Rebels' victory over New Mexico on Saturday.

Purvis recorded 140 total return yards, including averaging 34.3 on three kickoffs vs. the Lobos. His 55-yard return in the second quarter was the longest for a UNLV player since 2004.

In the fourth quarter, with UNLV holding on to a 20-17 lead and New Mexico punting at midfield, Purvis blocked Adam Miller's attempt. UNLV wide receiver Rodelin Anthony picked up the ball and ran it into the end zone for what would prove to be the game-winning touchdown in the 27-20 final. It was the team's first blocked punt of the season and the first returned for a score since 2006.

This marked the fourth time in 2008 that a Rebel won a MWC weekly honor and the second time for special teams. Utah quarterback Brian Johnson won this week's offensive award while Wyoming LB Ward Dobbs was the pick on defense.