Cortland senior linebacker Aidan Lochner (Ravena/Ravena-Coeymans-Selkirk) has been chosen as the Empire 8 Football Defensive Player of the Week for his performance in Cortland's 31-21 win at nationally ranked Utica on Oct. 3.
 
Lochner led Cortland with 11 tackles, five solo, and registered a key forced fumble in the Red Dragons' victory over the previously undefeated Pioneers. With Cortland leading 14-0 in the first quarter, Lochner forced a fumble in Cortland territory that led to a turnover. For the game, Cortland limited Utica to 60 yards rushing on 22 attempts.

Through five games, Lochner leads the Red Dragons with 33 tackles and two forced fumbles. He's also recorded two pass breakups and a quarterback hurry.

Cortland (5-0, 3-0 Empire 8) is currently 14th nationally in Division III by the AFCA and 15th by D3football.com. The Red Dragons are idle this week and will travel to Alfred University on Oct. 17 at 12 p.m. for a league contest.