The glossy Texas A&M program cover last weekend featured a player that many have talked about but whom few could really say much about.

In the photo, the massive number 11 appears a presence worthy of discussion.

Derrik Clark is one linebacker that is giving everyone something to talk about.

Clark may be new to Iowa State, but the junior linebacker looks like an old pro planting quarterbacks in the grass. For him, there is nothing better.

“I wouldn’t trade playing football here for anything,” explained the junior college transfer, who says that playing Division I football has been a lifelong dream.

“When I was in high school, I had no idea that I’d end up playing D-1 football,” the Livermore, Iowa, native said. He notes that he’s been impressed by the coaching staff as well as the overall Iowa State football program.

The impressions certainly aren’t one-sided.

After five games, Clark has tallied an impressive 46 tackles and a team-high five sacks, skills that he perfected over two years at Waldorf.

“I came to Waldorf and led the team in tackles,” said Clark. “I really grew into my body during my time in junior college.” From there, he says, the opportunities opened up for him.

“I was looked at by a few other colleges besides Iowa State,” said Clark, who also drew interest from the likes of Missouri, Kansas State, and Iowa. Clark says he was close to going to Iowa because of the tradition of the program.

It was later, he said, that he realized what his opportunities would be with the Cyclone coaching staff.

“The coaches really showed a lot of interest in me here,” he said, noting that he often looks to the coaching staff for support and encouragement.

“Basically, I came to realize that the Iowa program was gradually falling and the Iowa State program was on its way up. I really wanted to be a part of the rebuilding process. [The decision] was kind of a roller coaster,” he said.

The rebuilding process has included a face-lift for the defense, which Clark said needs to gain back some respect after years of being labeled less than successful.

“As a defense, our biggest emphasis right now is definitely getting respect back,” Clark said. “We’re taking big strides to improve.”

The defense has improved through the recruitment of players like Clark, with particular talent that adds to the team.

“I contribute to the team size and speed. I’m one of the heaviest and fastest linebackers,” he said. “I’m not in a position where I am really a leader out on the field.”

Clark sees himself as a team leader, not through actual vocal leadership, but through leading by example.

“People always ask me that question, you know, ‘Are you a leader?'” said Clark, “but I don’t really see myself that way.”

The history major, who wants to someday teach history and coach football, says that he does possess skills that make him a leader.

“I really started thinking about teaching when people told me I would be a good role model,” he said. “I don’t drink or smoke or anything, but I don’t come out and say that.”

He just does it.

And getting the job done on the field has caused fans to take notice. Part of the success Clark has experienced is through having a positive attitude and an optimistic spirit.

“I’ve never had a losing season in my life,” he said, explaining that a team goal is a winning season. “I think that we’re going to continue to improve. I don’t see us getting anything but better.”