Abstract: A debris deflector and an associated method are provided for preventing debris from entering the drive belt and pulley compartment of a riding mower. The debris deflector includes a generally planar top portion, a front portion that depends downwardly from the front portion, and a rear portion that extends upwardly from the top portion. The front portion has a plurality of through holes and a vertical flange on the riding mower has a plurality of tapped holes configured for receiving a corresponding plurality of fasteners to secure the front portion of the deflector to the vertical flange. The method includes providing the deflector, forming the plurality of holes through the front portion of the deflector, tapping the plurality of holes in the vertical flange, and securing the deflector to the vertical flange using the plurality of fasteners such that the top portion of the deflector prevents debris from entering at least a center section of the drive belt and pulley compartment.