St. Louis – University of Dayton captain Danny Leach has been named the first Pioneer Football League  Defensive Player of the Week for the 2015 season, after his performance in Dayton's come-from-behind 27-24 win at Robert Morris on Saturday.

Leach intercepted two passes from his safety position, and added four tackles, two solo hits, a fumble recovered and three passes defended.  His first interception came late in the first half, with RMU driving and seemingly poised to take a 14-point lead.  Leach cut in front of a seam route and raced down the right sideline for a 93-yard touchdown that tied the game 10-10. 

The 93-yard interception ties Leach with Dan Thobe for the third-longest return in UD history (Sean Gorius and Mark Kasmer each had 100-yard returns in their careers).  It is also the longest play from scrimmage so far this season in FCS football.

The senior from Downers Grove, Ill. Is one of nine players with two interceptions already in 2015, trailing only B.J. Nard of Cal Poly who has three picks.

Last year, Leach was the only player on the team to have at least one interception, a pass broken up, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery and a sack.  He already has three of those five boxes checked in 2015.

Leach shared PFL honors with Cade Bell of Jacksonville (offense) and Josh Lee of Drake (special teams).

It is interesting to note that all three of Dayton's nominees this week were from the Chicago area: quarterback Alex Jeske (Glen Ellyn) and placekicker William Will (Mokena).

Leach was also named the College Sports Madness PFL Defensive Player of the Week.

After a bye week, UD's home opener will be on Saturday, Sept. 19 against Duquesne.  Game time is 1 p.m. ET.