Hillsdale College sophomore player has solidified his status as the top return specialist in the Great Midwest Athletic Conference (G-MAC) after a standout performance in a 28-21 loss to Findlay. His efforts have earned him the title of G-MAC Special Teams Player of the Week. Ruddy was instrumental in the matchup, scoring all three of Hillsdale’s touchdowns, but it was his impressive 93-yard kickoff return in the fourth quarter that earned him special recognition. This marked Hillsdale’s first kickoff return touchdown since October 16, 2021, and only the second by a G-MAC player this season, making it the longest return thus far.
Ruddy’s 93-yard touchdown was not a one-off highlight. He accumulated 158 yards from five kickoff and punt returns against Findlay, including a 34-yard return that set up Hillsdale’s first touchdown of the game. With a total of 428 yards in kickoff returns this season, he leads the G-MAC by nearly 150 yards and ranks first in the NCAA Division II.
In addition to his kickoff returns, Ruddy has also excelled in punt returns, averaging a G-MAC-leading 14 yards. His skills as a wide receiver are equally remarkable; he has recorded 344 yards and four touchdowns on just 10 receptions. Overall, his versatility as a receiver, rusher, and return specialist has established him as one of the most dynamic players in the country, with a total of 895 all-purpose yards, leading all NCAA Division II players by nearly 200 yards. He averages 223 yards per game, the highest among all players in FBS, FCS, and NCAA DII, trailing only two NCAA DIII players through four weeks of the season.
Ruddy will aim to help the Chargers secure their first victory of the season as they face Northwood this Saturday at 1 p.m.