CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – Virginia punter Daniel Sparks has been named the ACC Specialist of the Week for the second time in his career, as announced by the conference on Monday, October 12. This recognition follows his impressive performance during Virginia’s 28-25 victory over Syracuse on October 10.
Sparks achieved a remarkable average of 52.2 yards per punt over six attempts during the game, including a longest punt of 72 yards. His performance also saw three punts downed inside the 20-yard line, which brings his season total to an ACC-best 15. Currently, Sparks leads the Atlantic Coast Conference and ranks third nationally with an average of 49.9 yards per punt.
Earlier this season, Sparks extended his record by booting a career-best 73-yard punt against Florida State on October 3, making him only the third player in Virginia’s history to record two punts of at least 70 yards within the same season. Will Brice (1994) is the only other Cavalier to achieve consecutive 70-yard punts.
Sparks joins teammate Will Bettridge, who received the ACC Specialist of the Week award earlier this season for his performance in Week 0. This accolade highlights the success Virginia’s special teams have experienced this year.
The Cavaliers continue to build on their performance as they prepare for their next match, further showcasing their talent in the ACC.
