Nelson Repeats as NWC Defensive Student-Athlete of the Week

By Robert McKinney, Athletics Communications Director, (503) 370-6110

SALEM, ORE. -- For the second consecutive week, Willamette University inside linebacker Jack Nelson (So., Portland, OR/Jesuit HS) has been selected as the Northwest Conference Football Defensive Student-Athlete of the Week.

Nelson received this week's honor for his efforts in Willamette's 56-20 win over Lewis & Clark College on Saturday, Oct. 13. He previously earned the award following the Bearcats' 38-24 victory at Whitworth University on Oct. 6.

In the triumph over Lewis & Clark, Nelson recorded 19 total tackles, including 10 unassisted stops. He produced 1.5 tackles for losses and broke up a pass. He helped Willamette limit the Pioneers' offensive efforts in the second half after the teams reached halftime tied 14-14. The Bearcats outscored L&C 42-6 over the final 30 minutes of the game.

At Whitworth the previous week, Nelson accumulated 14 tackles (12 unassisted). He also broke up a pass. During Willamette's last two games, he has achieved 33 tackles, including 22 unassisted tackles.

Nelson leads the Bearcats on the season with 47 total tackles and has made 28 solo tackles. His season totals also include one interception and three pass break-ups.

Willamette, ranked #19 in the AFCA Coaches Poll and #22 in the D3football.com Top 25, is 6-0 on the season, 2-0 in the Northwest Conference. The Bearcats will take on NWC rival Pacific Lutheran University on the road on Saturday, Oct. 20. Game time in Puyallup, Wash., is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. (PDT).