Viking linebacker Ian Sluss had a finishing flourish that most players only dream about, making four takeaways in leading Portland State to a 49-21 Big Sky Conference win over UC Davis last Saturday in Davis, CA. On Monday, the 6-0, 225-pounder from Vista, CA, was named the The Sports Network National Defensive Player of the Week as well as the Big Sky Conference Defensive Player of the Week.
    
Sluss had perhaps his best game as a Viking, making six tackles, two interceptions, two fumble recoveries and two pass breakups. He came up with all four turnovers in the fourth period to preserve the win.
    
With PSU ahead 28-14 and UC Davis driving with 12:10 to play, Sluss intercepted a pass on the PSU 28. The Vikings scored on the ensuing drive to go up 35-14. Later, Sluss intercepted another pass, returning it 31 yards for a touchdown with 5:32 left putting PSU up 42-21. On the following UCD series, Sluss covered a fumble forced by Henry Organ at the PSU 39. He also recovered a fumble on the game's final play.
    
Sluss' INT return for touchdown marked the third straight game he has returned a takeaway for a score. He now leads the Big Sky Conference in interceptions (4) and fumble recoveries (4) on the season, ranks fifth in tackles (76) and seventh in tackles for loss (8.5). In addition, Sluss has two sacks, three pass breakups and three defensive touchdowns.
    
Last season, Sluss was a second-team All-Big Sky Conference selection. This year, he was named preseason All-Big Sky... Sluss made a dozen tackles at Washington, 12 more against Southern Utah, then a career-high 17 at Northern Arizona... he returned an interception 52 yards for a touchdown against Idaho State... then he returned a fumble 57 yards for a touchdown against Cal Poly.
    
Other media outlets to honor Sluss this week include: College Football Performance Awards (National Defensive Performer of the Week), College Sporting News (CSN All Star).