RICHMOND, Va.—Senior linebacker Shane Hartzell (Perkasie, Pa.) was named the CAA Football Defensive Player of the Week on Monday morning. It is the second time this season and third time in his career that Hartzell has earned this weekly honor. This week's award comes after Hartzell tied a season high with 10 tackles in a 30-27, overtime win over Stony Brook last weekend.
 
Villanova extended its winning streak to seven games with the thriller over the Seawolves in its final conference game of the season. The victory improved the Wildcats record to 7-1 in league play and ensures no worse than a tie for second place in the CAA Football standings. Villanova closed out its conference schedule with seven consecutive victories, just the second time ever that it has won seven straight league games.
 
Hartzell had eight solo stops among his 10 tackles on the day. He recorded his 10^th career game with double digits in total tackles, including the second this season. Hartzell was credited with 2.5 tackles for loss and half a sack in the win. The Wildcats limited Stony Brook to just 76 rushing yards on the day, nearly 60 yards below what the Seawolves averaged per game coming into the contest. The defense also held Stony Brook to just 4-of-14 on third down.
 
The play of Vilanova's defense has been one of the keys to the seven-game winning streak, during which the Wildcats are allowing just 281.7 total yards per contest and have forced eight turnovers. Hartzell leads the team with 64 tackles in 10 games played on the year, including 11 tackles for loss and five sacks. He has added six quarterback hurries and has one pass breakup.
 
Hartzell played in his 50^th career game in the win at Towson on November 8 and has currently played in 51 contests during his collegiate career, all for Villanova. His career totals include 354 total tackles (178 solo, 176 assisted), 36.5 tackles for loss and 18 sacks.
 
The Wildcats conclude the regular season with a non-conference home game against Sacred Heart this Saturday. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. at Villanova Stadium.