Brandon Cleveland: "I'm Just Sticking To The Fundamentals"
NC State nose tackle Brandon Cleveland met with the media to discuss the rivalry matchup against North Carolina.
NOTE: Click the video above to watch the interview.
How difficult is it for a nose tackle to get as many tackles as you had last week?
I'll tell you one thing, it's not easy. It's a strain for sure, but I love what I do.
Is it just a good matchup or were you just kind of super pumped or what was it about it?
I mean, I just play hard and if the play's gonna make it, I'm gonna make it.
In the past couple weeks, the stats have really popped for you. Do you feel like you're doing anything particularly well over the past couple weeks?
I think I'm just sticking to the fundamentals and working on the little things. I'm just happy with how it worked out.
What has this year been like for you? You're in your first year, you're starting every game. Have you kind of been able to keep yourself on the field playing a position that's so tough on your body?
Honestly, I think it's just a mindset. Obviously, it's a tough position to get double-teamed every play and I play like 50 plus snaps, but it's something I want to do.
What does this rivalry mean to you?
This rivalry means a lot. I just don't like UNC. That's just how it is.
You’ve played as a freshman. It isn't easy to do in that position. What's the difference in Brandon Cleveland now compared to when you're a young pup like that?
I feel like I'm the same way. I'm just hungry. Since I came here, I just want to play and help the team win.
What's the challenge like for you playing a running back like Omarion Hampton this week?
Honestly, just like any other running back, just gotta hit them.
Do you kind of elevate your game a little bit? Even though you look at him like another running back, do you elevate knowing that you guys stopped him a year ago and you want to try to replicate that again this year?
Yeah, that's exactly what we're going to do. Hit him in the mouth and we're going to pull it.
Does being a nose tackle kind of be a little more to you, knowing that you're going to be one of the first guys to meet him at the line?
Yeah, it's fun.