Tiller announces spring awards

Not surprisingly with how many impact players missed time this spring due to injury, quite a few new faces earned Purdue's spring awards.

• Quarterback Joey Elliott and linebacker Jason Werner earned Most Improved.
• Receiver Aaron Valentin and defensive tackle Nick Mondek were given the Newcomer Award.
• The Pit Bull Award, given to the player who sustains tenacity and intense play throughout the spring, went to center/guard Cory Benton and defensive tackle Ryan Baker. It was the second consecutive year Baker earned the honor.
• Safety Frank Duong, known for his consistent special teams play, got the Hammer Award. That's presented to the outstanding hitter of the spring.

-- By Stacy Clardie, The Journal Gazette