AP: WSU’s Hercules Mata’afa named All Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year

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Stanford quarterback Ryan Burns (17) its tackled by Washington State defensive lineman Hercules Mata'afa (50) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 8, 2016, in Stanford, Calif. Photo: Associated Press/Marcio Jose Sanchez

The Associated Press All-Pac-12 football team has been announced. The AP has named Washington State linebacker Hercules Mata’afa the Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year. Stanford running back Bryce Love is the unanimous winner of the offensive award.

First team all-star recognition went to Cougar offensive lineman Cody O’Connell and Cole Madison and safety Jalen Thompson in addition to Mata’afa. From the University of Washington All-Pac-12 first-team recognition went to defensive tackle Vita Vea, center Coleman Shelton and all-purpose player Dante Pettis.

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