SMITHFIELD, R.I. – After playing a key part in Bryant's dominant defensive effort against Stony Brook last Thursday, senior Jeff Covitz (Reading, Mass.) has been named the Northeast Conference Defensive Player of the Week, the league announced Monday.

In earning his first-career honor, Covitz tied for the team lead with 10 tackles and also added 2.5 tackles for a loss and a half sack. Bryant's defense held Stony Brook to just 186 yards of total offense and a total of eight first downs. Also, the Bulldogs didn't allow the Seawolves in the red zone, the first time they've accomplished that feat since the 2009 season.

The Bulldogs open the home portion of their 2014 schedule this weekend when they host Merrimack at Bulldog Stadium. Kickoff is set for 1:00 p.m.