Wayshawn Parker Named Big 12 Offensive Player of Week
The Utah running back earned conference honors after a standout performance in a win over Iowa State.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Football
The Big 12 Conference named University of Utah running back Wayshawn Parker the Offensive Player of the Week following his dominant performance against Iowa State. Utah defeated Iowa State 31-17 behind Parker's triple-touchdown effort.
Why it matters
Parker's performance highlights his emergence as a key playmaker in Utah's offensive scheme during the 2026 season. His versatility as both a runner and receiver has garnered significant attention, including projections for a high selection in the 2027 NFL Draft.
Parker recorded 174 rushing yards on 18 carries, averaging 9.7 yards per attempt, while also logging 65 receiving yards on five catches. He accounted for 62 yards after the catch and scored three total touchdowns.
The players
Wayshawn Parker
He is a talented running back for the University of Utah who has become a focal point of the team's offense.
University of Utah
The institution fields a Division I football team that competes in the Big 12 Conference.
Iowa State
This university operates a collegiate football program that competes in the Big 12 Conference.
The details
Parker sparked the offense immediately, scoring on a 54-yard rushing touchdown on the very first play from scrimmage. He finished the contest with two rushing touchdowns and one receiving touchdown to lead Utah to victory.
Timeline
Wayshawn Parker played against Iowa State on September 26, 2026.
Parker was named Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week on September 28, 2026.
Utah hosts Kansas on October 10, 2026, at 8:15 pm MT.
Season Trajectory
Parker's emergence as a dual-threat weapon provides Utah with a critical edge in the competitive Big 12 landscape. This development significantly elevates the team's offensive potential as they look toward future conference matchups and postseason eligibility.
Parker's three-touchdown performance provides a major boost to Utah's offensive output and creates favorable conditions for the team's standing in the conference. He currently holds a season total of 328 rushing yards and five rushing touchdowns alongside 154 receiving yards and four scores.
The takeaway
Parker has established himself as a versatile scoring threat capable of changing games on the first play. Consistency in both ground and aerial attack remains the primary metric for his continued success as the season progresses.
What happens next
Utah is scheduled to host Kansas on October 10, 2026, at 8:15 pm MT.
Further reading
For more news on the team, visit Football.
