25 Sep 2024 UCA’s Wilson earns honor; Bears host Lamar on Saturday

CONWAY — University of Central Arkansas safety TaMuarion Wilson was named the United Athletic Conference (UAC) Defensive Player of the Week on Monday, the program’s third weekly honor of the season.

Wilson, a 6-foot-2, 215-pound senior from Bryant, Ark., filled up his stat sheet in Saturday’s 56-17 victory over Arkansas-Pine Bluff. Wilson had three tackles, including a sack, had a forced fumble, a pass breakup and an interception as UCA’s defense held UAPB to just 302 yards of total offense and 63 rushing yards.

Wilson’s interception in the second quarter came on a tipped pass by defensive end David Walker and was returned 42 yards for an apparent touchdown. However, there was a penalty on the return, nullifying the touchdown. The Bears drove 70 yards in seven plays for a touchdown anyway, giving them a 28-10 lead.

Wilson has recorded 287 career tackles and has seven career interceptions.

Senior running back Darius Hale was an honorable mention for Offensive Player of the Week after scoring four touchdowns, three on the ground along with an 11-yard touchdown reception. Senior placekicker Jake Gaster was honorable mention for Special Teams Player of the Week after going 8 for 8 on point-after attempts. Freshman running back Landen Chambers was honorable mention for Freshman of the Week after rushing for a career-high 102 yards and a touchdown in the second half.

No. 7 UCA (3-1) returns to “The Stripes” this weekend, hosting Top 25 Lamar at 6 p.m. Saturday.