Michael Mauti named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week

Penn State Nittany Lions linebacker Michael Mauti was named the Big Ten Defensive Player of Week after his dominating performance against Illinois. Mauti had already been named Walter Camp National Defensive Player of the Week on Sunday.

Mauti had six tackles, two interceptions, a forced fumble and half a sack in the Nittany Lions' 35-7 victory over the Illini on Saturday. Mauti returned the two interceptions a combined 105 yards.

This is the second time this season that the Penn State linebacker has received the Big Ten's Defensive Player of the Week honor, after he earned it two weeks ago with a 12-tackle performance against Navy.

The senior linebacker has been one of the Big Ten's top defensive players all season, leading the conference in forced fumbles (two) as well as ranking fourth in both tackles (48) and interceptions (two).

Penn State is now 3-2 after the victory over Illinois. The Nittany Lions will host the 5-0 No. 24 Northwestern Wildcats noon ET Saturday.