Iowa State football: Jeremiah George listed in ESPN’s top 25 players of Big 12

ESPN’s Big 12 Blog has recognized Iowa State defensive linebacker Jeremiah George on their top 25 list, checking in at number 22 overall.

Nov 16, 2013; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Kendal Thompson (1) runs the ball against Iowa State Cyclones Iowa State Cyclones linebacker Jeremiah George (52) in the second half at Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports

Here’s the case for George by blogger Max Olson:

"Iowa State’s team MVP flew under the radar nationally but was undisputedly one of the league’s best linebackers as a senior. George finished with a Big 12-leading 133 tackles and ranked fourth in FBS with 11.1 per game."

George recorded five total tackles in the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl last Saturday, three of them coming in the first quarter when the American team shot out to a 7-0 lead. The National team eventually came back to win 31-17.

Everyone knows how much of a leader George was on the Cyclones this season. When it came to consistency, he excelled far above all the other defensive players except for Jacques Washington, who had 119 total tackles. The next best player was Jared Brackens with 61 total tackles.

Some Iowa State fans may scoff at the ranking and expect higher, especially with how valuable he was to the team. But considering how much focus is put on the offensive side of the ball, I think it’s a great shoutout from ESPN considering all the talent in the Big 12 had on offense and that they also will go out of their way to recognize defensive players in a very offensive-oriented age in college football.