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Aaron Donald named Big East Defensive Player of the Week; Matt Yoklic makes honor roll

Justin K. Aller

With Paul Chryst to Wisconsin rumors all week, getting to this a few days late. But defensive lineman Aaron Donald won the Big East Defensive Player of the Week award this week for his big game against South Florida.

Against the Bulls, Donald racked up five tackles (four of which were for losses) and a sack. Pitt's defense also held South Florida to only eight rushing yards and three points.

With the extra attention being paid to him this year after a big 2011 season, I expected Donald to have a bit of a quiet year. He doesn't have the big sack numbers anymore as a tackle, but his 18 1/2 tackles for loss are first in the Big East and sixth in the nation. He's still a huge force and even though the junior says he's not thinking about leaving for the NFL Draft, frankly, I could see a change of heart coming if he hears he'll be selected high enough.

Punter Matt Yoklic also made the conference Honor Roll for his part in the game, averaging more than 45 yards per punt. He also had three within the 15-yard line.

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