The ISU football team surprised a lot of people by finishing the season 6-6 while enduring one of the most difficult schedules in the nation. The Cyclones’ work was rewarded by the Big 12 on Tuesday.

Junior linebacker A.J. Klein became the first Cyclone ever to be named the Big 12 Co-Defensive Player of the Year and wide receiver Aaron Horne was awarded the Big 12 Offensive Newcomer of the Year. 

“We are thrilled that A.J. and Aaron have been singled out for their great seasons,” Iowa State said ISU coach Paul Rhoads in a news release. “To earn all-league honors in the Big 12 is one the highest praises you can receive in college football.”

Klein finished the season with 101 tackles, including two sacks, and added one interception, which he returned 78 yards for a touchdown. Horne complied 33 catches for 385 yards while starting in four games.

The Big 12 also released its first, second and honorable mention teams on Tuesday.

Klein was joined on the All-Big 12 first team by senior left tackle Kelechi Osemele. Junior Jake Knott — who led the team with 107 tackles during the regular season — senior tackle Hayworth Hicks and senior corner back Leonard Johnson each earned All-Big 12 second team honors.

Freshman quarterback Jared Barnett, senior defensive lineman Jake Lattimer, sophomore punter Kirby Van Der Kamp and sophomore running back James White received All-Big 12 honorable mention honors.

The Cyclones next head to New York City and Yankee Stadium on Dec. 30 to play Rutgers in the New Era Pinstripe Bowl