September 27, 2022

Cincinnati’s senior linebacker tabbed nation’s best defensive player following Indiana win

CINCINNATI – Cincinnati senior linebacker Ivan Pace Jr. collected National Player of the Week honors from the Chuck Bednarik Award on Tuesday.

The Bednarik Award is given to the nation’s top defensive player.

Pace Jr. led the Bearcats’ dominant defensive effort in the 45-24 victory over Indiana on Saturday.

The Cincinnati native and Colerain High School product tallied 15 tackles, 4.5 TFLs, 2.5 sacks and three quarterback hurries against the Hoosiers.

Indiana logged 104 plays in the contest, but Pace Jr. and the Blackcats defense allowed just 3.3 yards per play.

Pace Jr. leads the nation with 11.0 TFLs and ranks in the top 10 in tackles (46) and sacks (4.5).

He was named the AAC Defensive Player of the Week on Monday, joining teammate junior wide receiver Tyler Scott, who was named the league’s offensive player of the week.

COURTESY UC SPORTS COMMUNICATIONS