Patrick Willis named NFC Defensive Player of the Week

San Francisco 49ers linebacker Patrick Willis was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Week for his performance during the Niners' 34-0 shutout of the New York Jets last Sunday.

The sixth-year All-Pro had a team-high 10 tackles against the Jets, along with two passes deflected and an interception. Willis was quick to shift the focus to his teammates for his successes last week, making it a true team effort.

"I start by thanking my teammates," Willis said. "The front seven is unbelievable. I wouldn't be half the guy I am without those guys."

Willis is a main cog of a 49ers defense that is allowing the third-least yards per game (277.3), is sixth-best against the run (79.5 ypg) and fifth-best against the pass (197.8 ypg). This marks the second time Willis has won defensive player of the week honors -- he scored the award last October after racking up 18 tackles against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He and the 49ers host the Buffalo Bills at Candlestick Park on Sunday, Oct. 7.