Young Lions star named NFC defensive player of the week

ALLEN PARK - Brian Branch has become the third Detroit Lions player to be recognized for outstanding play this season, earning NFC defensive player of the week honors on Wednesday. He joins Jared Goff, who was named NFC offensive player of the week for completing all 18 passes against Seattle in Week 4, and Aidan Hutchinson, who was named NFC defensive player of the month after logging 6.5 sacks in September.

Branch's recognition is no surprise after a three-takeaway performance on Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys. He picked off one pass in the end zone, another that he returned inside the Cowboys' 5-yard line, plus forced a fumble that was recovered by Terrion Arnold. He is the first Lions safety ever with two picks and a forced fumble in a game, and just the second player ever, joining Dre Bly (2003, '05).