FAU outside linebacker Leighton McCarthy was named Conference USA defensive player of the week on Monday after a dominant performance in the Owls’ 21-17 win against Charlotte.
: Congratulations to @FAUFootball’s Leighton McCarthy, #CUSAFB Defensive Player of the Week!
— Conference USA (@ConferenceUSA) October 5, 2020
The redshirt senior totaled 10 tackles, four tackles for a loss, three sacks, and a forced fumble to help lead FAU to victory. All of those totals were career highs for McCarthy.
His biggest play of the game came in the third quarter, where he sacked Charlotte quarterback Chris Reynolds, forcing a fumble that was recovered by Caliph Brice at the 49ers’ 16-yard line with 2:45 to go in the third quarter.