WATCH: Brandon Cleveland Talks Before NC State’s Rivalry Game vs. UNC

Junior Nose Tackle Brandon Cleveland met with the media after practice yesterday before NC State’s rivalry game against UNC this Saturday. You can watch the video ABOVE, and read the transcript BELOW.

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.

Was it just a good matchup or were you just kind of super pumped? Or what was it about it?

I just played hard and if the play is there, I’m going to make it.

In the past couple of weeks, the stats have really popped for you. Do you feel like you’re doing anything in particular well over the past couple of weeks?

I think I’m just sticking to the fundamentals and working on the little things.

It just happens to work out for me.

What has this year been like for you? You’re fresh at starting every game. How have you been able to keep yourself on the field playing in 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. I’ve played 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 played some as a freshman, which isn’t easy to do in that position. What’s the difference from Brandon Cleveland now, compared to when you were a young pup like that?

I feel like I’m the same way.

I’m just hungry. Since I came here, I just wanted to play and help the team win.

What’s the challenge like for you playing a running back like Omarion Hampton?

Honestly, just like any other running back.

Just got to hit them.

Even though you look at him like another running back, do you elevate your game knowing that you guys stopped him a year ago, and are trying to replicate that again this year?

Yeah, that’s exactly what we’re going to do.

Hit him in the mouth and he’s going to fold.

Being a nose tackle, do you enjoy knowing that you’re going to be one of the first guys to meet him at the line?

Yeah, it’s fun.