Penn State wrestling’s Marcus Blaze claimed the Big Ten Wrestling Freshman of the Week honor for his efforts against No. 24 Indiana and Maryland this past weekend of competition. The award gives Penn State its seventh weekly honor of the season.

The Nittany Lion went 2-0, securing a 19-4 technical fall over Indiana’s Blaine Frazer and a 15-3 major decision over No. 15-ranked Braxton Brown of Maryland. In total, Blaze secured 10 takedowns without sacrificing one in the two bouts. The Nittany Lion is now 15-0 with four pins, five technical falls, and five major decisions, good enough for over a 93% bonus rate.

Blaze is ranked No. 4 in the country behind only defending champion Lucas Byrd of Illinois, Ben Davino of Ohio State, and Evan Frost of Iowa State.

Penn State wrestling is now 11-0 and 5-0 in Big Ten duals. The Nittany Lions have pitched seven shutouts, including four within the conference.

On Friday night, Blaze is set to face No. 10 Jacob Van Dee as the Nittany Lions host the No. 6-ranked Nebraska Cornhuskers in the Bryce Jordan Center. The dual is set to begin at 8 p.m. and will be broadcast on the Big Ten Network.

About the Author

Cooper Cazares

Cooper was a member of Onward State from 2023 to 2026, serving on the Penn State wrestling and football beats. He can be found frowning on most Sunday afternoons, for he is a lifelong Washington Commanders fan. When he isn't watching sports, Cooper is usually tearing up at "Rudy" or taking a well-deserved nap. To reach him, follow him on Instagram (@cooper_cax) or Twitter (@CooperCazares).

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