IRVING, Texas – Texas junior defensive back DeShon Elliott was named the Big 12 Conference Defensive Player of the Week on Monday following his standout performance Saturday night on the road against No. 4/4 USC. Elliott had two interceptions, seven tackles and two pass breakups in the double-overtime thriller. It is the first time in his career that he has been honored by the conference.



A native of Rockwall, Texas, Elliott and the Longhorns' defense shined all night long against the Trojans' prolific offense and their Heisman Trophy candidate quarterback Sam Darnold. Elliott and the defense allowed just 17 points in regulation and 71 total rushing yards. Elliott totaled seven tackles (five solo) with a tackle for loss in the contest, flying all over the field. USC entered Saturday night's game averaging 45.5 points and 269.5 rushing yards per game.



His first interception of the night came late in the first half, a much-needed spark as the Longhorns trailed 7-0 at the time. With just under 30 seconds left in the half, Elliott intercepted a Darnold pass and returned it 38 yards for a touchdown. It was his first career score.



Later in the game, in the fourth quarter, Elliott picked up his second interception of the game, returning it 24 yards into USC territory. He became the first Longhorn this season with two interceptions in a game this season. Elliott now has five career interceptions.



Elliott and the Longhorns' defense came up with big stop after big stop Saturday, holding the Trojans to just 6-of-21 on third and fourth downs. On their second drive of the game, after USC had taken the ball to the Texas goal line, Elliott came up with a huge stop on third down to keep USC running back Ronald Jones out of the end zone. The Longhorns would then stop the Trojans on fourth down to get the ball back and keep the game scoreless.



Texas is in the midst of their longest break of the season as they embark on their bye week before beginning Big 12 play on the road at Iowa State on Thursday, Sept. 28. Kickoff for that game is set for 7 p.m. CT on ESPN from inside Jack Trice Stadium in Ames.