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It was announced on Monday that UCLA defensive back Ta'Shawn James has been named Big Ten Co-Defensive Player of the Week. The honor comes after the James had an eight tackle, two interception performance in the Bruins' season opening 45-24 win over the Cal Golden Bears. It was the first time a Bruin had two interceptions in a game since Carson Schwesinger achieved that feat against Iowa in 2024. His performance in that game led him to being named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week, which was the last time any Bruin won the honor. James' two interceptions came on consecutive Cal possessions in the fourth quarter that helped the Bruins shutout the Bears in the final frame, leading to 21 unanswered UCLA points for the win. (Photo: Reuters - Darren Yamashita) Despite giving up 410 total yards, the Bruins only gave up 66 yards in the fourth quarter as Cal end the game with four turnovers -- two INTs and two on downs. UCLA also had some key performances from other defensive players, including linebacker Sammy Omosigho who had 13 total tackles, 1.0 sack, and 2.0 tackles for a loss. Linebacker Jalen Woods also had double-digit tackles with 11 and a 0.5 tackle for loss. The win marked the first victory for head coach Bob Chesney who took over the program eight months ago. He brought in several new players in the off-season, with 37 making an appearance in the game against Cal. UCLA's next game comes against San Diego State on Saturday afternoon at the Rose Bowl for the Bruins' home opener. Kickoff is at 4:15 p.m. PT and will be broadcast n the Big Ten Network.