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

SALEM, ORE. -- Jack Nelson (Sr., ILB, Portland, OR/Jesuit HS) of Willamette University has been named to the D3football.com Team of the Week after leading the Bearcats' defense against #5-ranked Linfield College on Saturday, Nov. 1. The Bearcats defeated the Wildcats, 31-28, and moved into the #25 ranking in the D3football.com Top 25. Linfield fell to #11.

Nelson topped Willamette's defensive statistics with 12 unassisted tackles, including one tackle for loss, against Linfield. He helped the Bearcats limit the Wildcats to 317 yards, well below their previous average of 492.2 yards per game.

It was the second time that Nelson has gained a spot on the D3football.com Team of the Week this season. He also was selected after recording nine total tackles, with three tackles for loss, in the Bearcats' 42-24 victory at California Lutheran University on Sept. 20.

Nelson has registered a total of 76 tackles to lead the Bearcats this season. He also ranks first on the team with 47 unassisted tackles and 29 assists. He is first in the NWC and 32nd in NCAA Division III with 10.9 tackles per game. He is 22nd in the nation with 6.7 solo tackles per game.

During his career, Nelson has contributed 287 total tackles. He has made 175 unassisted tackles to go along with 112 assists. He has earned 23.0 tackles for loss, including 7.5 quarterback sacks. He has played in 33 games over the past four years.

With the win over Linfield, Willamette is now 5-2 overall and 3-2 in the NWC. The Bearcats will play Pacific University, 5-2 overall and 5-0 in the NWC, on Saturday, Nov. 8 in Forest Grove, Ore. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. (PST).