DENVER - University of Hawai'i defensive end Melila Purcell earned Western Athletic Conference (WAC) Defensive Player of the Week honors Monday, the league office announced.

Purcell, a senior from Pago Pago, American Samoa, made eight tackles (7 solo), including 3.5 for a loss of 10 yards and forced a fumble that led to a touchdown in the second half of the 51-17 win over San Jose State. He had 2.5 sacks and was also credited with four quarterback hurries.

The product of Leone High School in American Samoa has compiled 49 total tackles, including a team-high 13.5 for-a-loss (-37) and 7.5 sacks (-29). He also leads the WAC in tackles-for-loss, averaging 1.23 per game, and forced fumbles, averaging 0.36 per game. This is Purcell’s second WAC POTW honor this season, after earning the award Oct. 23.

Boise State quarterback Jared Zabransky and Nevada punt returner De’Angelo Wilson were named WAC offensive and special teams players of the week, respectively.

Hawai’i is currently riding a school-record eight-game win streak and will meet Purdue this week. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:05 p.m. at Aloha Stadium.

-UH-