This Denver defense looks like something special.

The Pios have yet to allow double-digit goals in 2022, though that total includes a 9-5 loss to Boston College that was called early after three quarters due to frigid temperatures. At the center of the suffocating unit is junior Sam Thacker, a McDonogh (Md.) graduate who combined for eight caused turnovers, three ground balls and four draw controls over two games last week. For her efforts, Thacker is the USA Lacrosse Magazine Division I Women’s Player of the Week.

Thacker has been a vaccuum this spring, accumulating 23 ground balls and 17 draw controls in Denver’s 7-1 start. She also has 29 caused turnovers, totaling at least four in five games. She leads the nation with 2.88 caused turnovers per game and allows lead with her raw total of 23.

PREVIOUS WINNERS

• Feb. 15: Meaghan Tyrrell, Syracuse

• Feb. 22: Catriona Barry, Duke

• March 1: Aurora Cordingley, Maryland

• March 8: Charlie Rudy, Colorado