Syracuse QB Ryan Nassib's record-breaking day not enough to overcome Northwestern. (Getty Images)

The Big East announced its weekly awards Monday, and heading the group was no surprise.

Syracuse senior quarterback Ryan Nassib was named the conference offensive player of the week after a monster game against Northwestern, throwing for a school record 470 yards -- albeit in a crushing 42-41 loss in a game that Syracuse once trailed 35-13. Nassib hit on 44 of 65 passes, despite being without leading returning receiver Alec Lemon. He spread the wealth, too, with nine receivers each catching at least two passes. 

Connecticut linebacker Yawin Smallwood was named defensive player of the week after racking up seven tackles, a sack, and 3.5 tackles for loss in a shutout win over Massachusetts, who managed just 59 total yards of offense.

Temple kicker and punter Brandon McManus was the specialist of the week, getting 11 points in the Owls' 41-10 victory over Villanova. McManus also had two punts for an average better than 44 yards.

For more up-to-the-minute news and analysis on the Big East, follow bloggers Evan Hilbert and Matt Rybaltowski @CBSBigEast.