INDIANAPOLIS --- The Tusculum Pioneers are listed in eight team categories with the release of this week's NCAA Division II football statistics.

Tusculum has accounted for three defensive touchdowns in its first five games which are the second-most in the nation. Only Benedict's four defensive touchdowns are better.

The TU defense has recorded eight interceptions this season, which are tops in the South Atlantic Conference and listed fifth nationally.

The Pioneers are also listed 21^st in passing yards per completion (15.20 – 2^nd in SAC), 24^th in rushing offense (208.8 ypg – 3^rd in SAC), 25^th in fewest sacks allowed (1.00 spg – 5^th in SAC), 35^th in punt return defense (4.31 ypr – 2^nd in SAC), 41^st in turnovers gained (8 – 2^nd in SAC) and 45^th in time of possession (31:11 – 4^th in SAC).

Dayquan Diston's 0.75 interceptions per game average is first in the league and fifth-most in the country. He has amassed three picks in his four appearances this year. He is also tops in the conference with his 1.50 passes defended average.

DJ Dailey has three interceptions in his five outings in 2025 (0.60 avg), which are second in the SAC and 18^th in NCAA II.

Xavier Gunn has been credited with seven passes defense in his five contests (1.40 avg), which ranks second in the conference and 29^th in the country.

Rashad Watson is ranked in two categories including 33^rd in total tackles per game (9.2 tpg – 3^rd in SAC) and 38^th in solo tackles per game (5.00 – 1^st in SAC).

The Pioneers have a bye this Saturday and will return to action next week (Oct. 11) when they host Newberry for a 2 p.m. contest at Pioneer Field.