CONWAY, Ark. _ University of Central Arkansas safety Jaylon Lofton was named the Southland Conference Defensive Player of the Week on Monday after helping the Bears shut out McNeese State 35-0 last Saturday in Lake Charles, La.

    Lofton, a 6-foot, 175-pound junior from Forest, Miss., had four tackles, forced a fumble and intercepted a pass and returned it 14 yards as the No. 18/20 Bears improved to 5-1 overall and 4-0 in the SLC. Lofton, a transfer from East Central Community College, helped the Bears hold the Cowboys to just 309 total yards of offense, including 188 through the air, which was 117 yards less than their average for the season.

    The shutout was the first for the Cowboys at home since 1987 and the first against a conference opponent since 1988.

    Lofton is UCA's sixth player of the week selection this season, joining quarterback Hayden Hildebrand, rover George Odum (twice) and kick returners Tremon Smith and Dwayne Smith. 

    The Bears return home this week for Homecoming, hosting the Lamar Cardinals (3-3, 3-1) at 6 p.m. Saturday at First Security  Field at Estes Stadium.