One of our 2017 sleeper picks for a big year in the FCS is Savannah State LB Marcus Lee. He's shown flashes of what could turn this upcoming season into a breakout campaign. I had a chance to talk to Marcus recently, and we are excited about his potential.
TS: Hey Mark, it's nice to sit down with you and thanks for agreeing to interview.
ML: No problem. Thank you for having me
TS: You're welcome. Start by giving us a little information about Mark the Football player (School, height, weight, position, and jersey number)
ML: My full name is Marcus Cornelius Lee, Jr. But I go by Mark Lee on the football field. I attend Savannah State University.I am 6'0 225 pounds. I play outside linebacker/ Nickel back, and I wear jersey number 50.
TS: Thank you, Mark. Is there any significance to the number 50 for you, or was it random?
ML: It was just the number assigned to me when I came in as a freshman. I didn't like the number at first but my old defensive coordinator Mike Wallace told me the best advice about jersey numbers. He said "the number never make the player, the player makes the number." So throughout the duration of my career I grew to love it and it is apart of my legacy at SSU now.
TS: That's a very good philosophy, make your number great. You said you played LB/NB, how do you feel about playing the monster safety position (MoneyBacker)?
ML: I'm comfortable playing there because I can move and play well in space. I'm willing to play wherever my team needs me though. I just enjoy being on the field and making plays.
TS: Well said. Is there any particular player that you try to emulate with your play style?
ML: I have two players actually. The first player is the honey badger. He just plays the game relentlessly and every time you watch him play you see him all over the field making plays every where. Even though some people may label him as undersized he still has that dog in him and that swagger to make up for it and I feel I'm the same way. And the second player is Lavonte David outside linebacker for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He is a hard nose 3 down outside linebacker who can run sideline to sideline making tackles.
TS: I love that. Both players are beasts, can't go wrong emulating them. Who is the toughest player to tackle, that you've played against?
ML: We have played against a lot of tough competition like the University of Miami, BYU and Colorado State but the toughest player I've went against is Tarik Cohen from North Carolina A&T. I have to give credit where it's due. He's quick. He's fast and very shifty. He also have a great offensive line blocking for him. A player like that is hard to imitate in practice during game preparation. I would not be surprised at all to see him play on Sunday's.
TS: That's great, he's a very good player. What's something most people don't know about you?
ML: One thing about me many people may not know is I am a hardcore video gamer. I enjoy playing games like Madden and 2K. I have spent many Saturday nights in the offseason playing my PS4 for countless hours with my close friends, teammates, and even my girlfriend. And I have been that way since I was about 10 years old.
TS: Okay, then I have to ask. What's your favorite game mode for solo play?
ML: Lately I have been doing MyCareer mode on NBA 2K16. The whole story line is a great experience for gamers.
TS: Well, with the interview coming to a close, do you have any parting words for fans and followers about next season?
ML: To the Savannah state fans, student body, alumni, and the entire Tiger nation I just want to say I love you. For my upcoming senior season not only me but the entire team has something big in store for you guys. We have been working hard day in and day out since the completion of the season last year. I just want to say thank you for all the support over the years. Go Orange Go Blue!
TS: I have no doubt you're going to open some eyes this year.
ML: That is the plan. I'm just trusting in the process right now. Taking it one day at a time.
TS: Well Mark, I hope Tyrant Scouting has been helpful thus far, and we'll continue to keep a close eye on you this season!
ML: I have really enjoyed working with you guys so far. Thank you so much for everything.
TS: Thank you.