University of Oregon tight end David Paulson, an Auburn Riverside High product, was named the Ducks Offensive Player of the Week for his role in a 43-19 victory over rival Washington last Saturday.

After studying the film, the Oregon coaching staff determined Paulson as one of the Ducks’ top performers. Paulson received a game ball.

Paulson, a 6-foot-4, 230-pound sophomore, caught two passes for 59 yards as the Ducks (4-0 in Pacific 10 Conference, 6-1 overall), ranked No. 10 in the latest BCS standings, exploded in the third quarter to dominate UW at Husky Stadium.

One of Paulson’s catches was a spectacular one and helped Oregon dig itself out of a third-and-25 hole in the first half. Streaking down the middle of the field, Paulson hauled in a well-thrown Jeremiah Masoli pass over his shoulder – and over UW linebacker Donald Butler – for a season-high 32-yard completion. The completion eventually led to Masoli’s 1-yard touchdown run.

Paulson, who has made five starts this season for the Pac-10-leading Ducks, has caught nine passes for 142 yards, fourth best on the team. Eight of his nine receptions have gone for first downs and each has led to Oregon scores.

Oregon will face No. 4 USC (3-1, 6-1) in a conference showdown at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore., on Saturday (5 p.m., ABC-KOMO 4).

ESPN’s “College GameDay” will broadcast from Eugene on Saturday.