David Paulson continues to haul in honors as well as clutch catches for the Oregon Ducks.

Paulson, an Auburn Riverside High School graduate, recently was named to the Pacific-12 Conference’s first-team all-academic team for the third straight season.

Oregon’s 6-foot-4, 240-pound senior plans to ccmplete his MBA in June. He earned his undergraduate degree in business. He maintains a 3.67 grade-point average.

“He’s everything you want in a student-athlete,” Oregon coach Chip Kelly told the Eugene Register-Guard.

Paulson, a first-team all-conference tight end last season, entered the year on many all-league and award watch lists, including consideration for the prestigious John Mackey honor.

He was an honorable mention All-America selection by SI.com last season.

A solid blocker, Paulson is fourth on the team in receptions with 20 catches for 281 yards and four touchdowns. He had three catches – including a remarkable one-handed grab in heavy traffic near the goal line – in a 38-35 loss to USC last Saturday.

“I say catching is all about the eyes,” Paulson said. “If you keep your eyes on it, you shouldn’t drop it.”

Paulson has flourished in Eugene.

“My favorite part is interacting with my teammates and the people in the program every day,” he said. “I also love that we have the best fans in the country.”

No. 10 Oregon (9-2) takes on rival Oregon State (3-8) in the Civil War Game on Saturday at Autzen Stadium (12:30 p.m., Channel 4). The Ducks will clinch the Pac-12 North Division with a win, enabling them to host the inaugural conference championship game Dec. 2.

Paulson is the son of Scott and Kristi Paulson.