While Iowa State looks to plug some of the holes in its defense for players lost to graduation — they also have some experienced defenders back — including senior lineman Brent Curvey. Curvey is just six-feet tall, but weighs 295-pounds. He’s earned the nickname “Big Play Curvey,” but isn’t exactly sure how that got started.

Curvey thinks the nickname started after he got an interception against Colorado. Curvey took that interception 66 yards for a touchdown that helped clinch the game. He also had two fumble returns for touchdowns as a sophomore. Curvey says he’s learned to like the nickname.

Curvey says as senior he does have to be a leader to the new guys. Curvey says some of the new guys are asking questions and he tells them he got yelled at as a rookie too and it’s all part of coaching. Curvey says he tells the young guys to take the coaching and make themselves better. Iowa State opens the season August 31st against Toledo in Ames.