Mike Rose Named Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year

IRVING, Texas – Junior Mike Rose is having one of the finest seasons from an Iowa State linebacker in school history and the Big 12 Conference noted his outstanding play by selecting him as the 2020 Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year.

Rose is the first Cyclone to win the award since A.J. Klein in 2011.

The Brecksville, Ohio, native has wreaked havoc on opponent offenses during the season as the Cyclone undisputed leader on defense.

Rose, who has started all 36 games of his career, leads the Cyclones in tackles (81), interceptions (4) and QB hurries (4). His 8.1 tackle per game average ranks fourth in the Big 12 and his 10.0 TFL is ninth-best in the league.

Rose had a career-high 13 tackles in the win at Texas.

Rose leads the Big 12 and is tied for first nationally for interceptions among linebackers.

Rose's ability to rise to the occasion has aided the Cyclones in their successful season, as Iowa State will compete in the Big 12 Championship game on Saturday for the first time in school history.

Two of Rose's four picks came at crucial moments and sealed victories. His diving interception vs. TCU with 3:56 left in the game helped the Cyclones put the game away.

Against Baylor, Rose intercepted a pass in the end zone with :57 seconds left with the Cyclones clinging to a seven-point lead. His 11 tackles, 1.5 TFL, two QB hurries and pick vs. the Bears earned him Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week honors.

Rose has a Pro Football Focus run defense grade of 91.1 pct, first nationally among linebackers.