Linebacker Jake Fischer of the Arizona Wildcats had a great first game against the Toledo Rockets, as he earned Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Week honors for his efforts. Fischer recorded 13 tackles and 2.5 tackles for loss, both career highs. With Fischer in the middle of Jeff Casteel's new 3-3-5, Arizona shut down Toledo in the second half, as the Rockets managed only a field goal and 132 total yards of offense. Arizona also didn't allow a single third down conversion in that half, and they also ended up stopping Toledo in overtime.
The Wildcats were not expected to be a big-time contender this year, and part of the reason was their defense. Granted, it is only Toledo, but it's a positive step for an Arizona defense that has struggled to stop anyone lately. If Fischer continues to perform this strongly, the Wildcats defense might be one of the stronger parts of the team going forward.
Talk about Fischer's performance with Arizona fans at Arizona Desert Swarm. Hit up the SB Nation college football hub for more comprehensive NCAA football coverage.