UCLA LB Anthony Barr named Pac-12 defensive player of the week

UCLA Bruins junior linebacker Anthony Barr was named Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Week following Saturday's solid performance on the road against Washington State, according to a press release from the conference.

Barr collected eight tackles, three for a loss, and added 2.5 sacks on the evening, as UCLA defeated the Cougars in Spokane, 44-36. He also blocked a punt and forced a safety in the contest.

The sack and tackle-for-loss totals were both career-highs for the Southern California native out of San Pedro, and show just how dynamic of a playmaker and athlete he is. He converted to linebacker from the running back position, and made many of his plays when the Bruins needed him most as they fended off a furious comeback attempt by the Cougars.

On the season, he has 11 sacks and 17 tackles for loss in 10 games. He ranks second in the Pac-12 and sixth in the nation in both categories.