Arizona RB J.J. Taylor, G Cody Creason make PFF’s National Team of the Week

Not only was Arizona Wildcats running back J.J. Taylor named the Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Week after having a career game against Oregon State, he was also named to Pro Football Focus’ National Team of the Week.

The folks at PFF gave Taylor a 77.8 grade for his 284-yard performance against the Beavers, in which he averaged 10.5 yards per carry and scored two long touchdowns.

“Taylor paced the Wildcats to victory over Oregon State as he tied with Sanders for most 10-plus yard runs this week with eight,” PFF wrote. “Taylor led the nation with 284 yards on the ground and gained a first down or touchdown on a national-leading 13 carries.”

Arizona left guard Cody Creason also made the team, after receiving a 89.6 grade.

“Creason paved the way for Taylor’s aforementioned big day but also spent 22 snaps in pass protection without allowing a single pressure,” PFF wrote.

It was only Creason’s second start at left guard after he spent the first two weeks of the season at right tackle. His play at left guard along with the return of left tackle Layth Friekh has led to incremental improvement for Arizona’s offensive line.

Of course, the Wildcats have faced two weak teams since he returned from his two-game suspension, so it will be interesting to see how the offensive line holds up against the USC Trojans on Saturday.

Nonetheless, it’s promising that the unit has been able to turn in some impressive performances after it struggled in the first two weeks.

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