IOWA CITY, Iowa — University of Iowa junior defensive lineman Aaron Graves has been named the Big Ten Co-Defensive Player of the Week following his outstanding effort in the Hawkeyes’ 40-16 rout over Washington, it was announced Monday by the league office. Graves shares the honor with Minnesota defensive back Koi Perich.

The weekly conference accolade is the first for Graves and the second for a Hawkeye this season; Kaleb Johnson was recognized as co-offensive player of the week following his dominant performance in Iowa’s road win at Minnesota last month.

Graves was a force on the defensive line on Saturday, totaling five tackles, two sacks, two forced fumbles and one pass deflection. The pair of forced fumbles were a career best for Graves, The Dayton, Iowa, native has recorded multiple sacks twice in 2024 (Illinois State, 3; Washington, 2).

Iowa (4-2, 2-1) returns to action Saturday at Michigan State (3-3, 1-2). Kickoff for that contest is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. (CT) in East Lansing, Michigan, and will be televised on NBC.