Tulane Safety Kevin Adams Named Defensive Player of Week

The Green Wave star earned the weekly honors after recording nine tackles and two interceptions in a victory over Memphis.

Updated on Oct. 19, 2026 in Football

Tulane Safety Kevin Adams Named Defensive Player of Week

Live Poll

Do you feel individual conference awards fairly recognize a team's total defensive effort?

The American Athletic Conference named Tulane safety Kevin Adams its defensive player of the week following a dominant showing against Memphis. Adams led a defensive effort that forced six turnovers in Tulane's 31-17 victory at Yulman Stadium.

Why it matters

Adams earned the recognition for his pivotal role in Tulane's comeback win, which saw the team overcome an early 10-3 deficit. His two interceptions, including one in the red zone and another in the final minute, were critical to maintaining the lead.

Adams recorded nine tackles, two interceptions, and one fumble recovery during the game. Tulane's defense also registered seven sacks in the 31-17 victory.

The players

Kevin Adams

He is a safety for the Tulane Green Wave who recently secured conference defensive player of the week honors.

Tulane Green Wave

This is the intercollegiate athletic program representing Tulane University in New Orleans.

Memphis Tigers

This is the intercollegiate athletic program representing the University of Memphis.

Santana Hopper

He is a former Tulane defensive player who was the last to receive the conference defensive player of the week award before Adams.

The details

Tulane forced a total of six turnovers to stifle the Memphis offense after trailing early. Adams secured his second interception of the game during the final minute of play to seal the win for the Green Wave.

Timeline

  1. Friday: Tulane defeated Memphis 31-17 at Yulman Stadium.

  2. October 2026: Kevin Adams named defensive player of the week.

  3. November 2025: Santana Hopper was the last Tulane defensive player to earn this honor.

Season Trajectory

This award highlights the improved defensive performance of Tulane within the American Athletic Conference standings. It signals a shift in the team's ability to force turnovers, which could impact their position in the conference race.

Tulane's seven-sack performance and six forced turnovers demonstrate a high-impact defensive scheme that fantasy managers should monitor. This victory keeps Tulane relevant in the conference standings as the season progresses toward playoff implications.

The takeaway

The performance highlights how individual defensive playmaking can catalyze team momentum in high-stakes conference games. Fans and analysts should track whether this turnover rate persists in Tulane's upcoming schedule.

Further reading

For more news on local collegiate athletics, visit the Football section.

Live Poll

Do you feel individual conference awards fairly recognize a team's total defensive effort?