Clevan Thomas grabs one of his AFL record 13 picks this season

If there is such a thing as a sophomore slump, Clevan Thomas hasn't heard of it.

The defensive specialist has had one heck of a second season, playing a key role in the SaberCats' 12-4 overall record and No. 1 position in the playoff seedings.

Despite missing two games due to injury, he set a league record with 13 interceptions and led the league with 35 passes defended while posting 38.5 tackles, two fumble recoveries and a forced fumble.

Thomas was able to turn defensive stops into offense by leading the AFL with 236 missed field goal return yards. He also amassed 1,253 yards on 61 kickoff returns and tied for third in the league with four touchdowns.

Clevan, regarded by many as the AFL's premier defensive player, recently shared some of his thoughts and gives us some insight on just what is going on under his helmet.

Q: What keeps you focused in the game of arena football?
A: Just focusing on playing for the love of God.

Q: Now in your second season, do you think you have mastered the game of
Arena Football?
A: No. I haven't even played two seasons. There are a lot of years left.
No, I can't say that.

Q: What type of influence has Head Coach Darren Arbet had on you and your
game?
A: Attacking the game. Not only that, he gave me an opportunity. A year and
a half ago, the Arena Football League had never heard of me.

Q: What do you think will be the key to defending your ArenaBowl
Championship title?
A: If our team can stay healthy.

Q: To date, what is the most memorable moment in your AFL career?
A: My first day of practice. I was trying to adjust to the game.

Q: What team and player is the toughest you have faced in your AFL career?
A: Our offense and receivers in practice because they are so good. It's hard
to go against the same guys at 8 a.m. everyday. Game time is easy for me
because the crowds are so incredible and they help get the adrenaline
flowing.

Q: Growing up, which football player did you pretend to be?
A: I didn't really pretend to be anyone in particular; I just liked all
cornerbacks who played man-to-man coverage. I really respect those guys.

Q: Do you have any superstitions or pregame rituals?
A: Before every game, I write some scriptures from the Bible on my wrist.
While I'm playing they help keep me humble so I can focus on playing with a
level head.

Q: Who is the toughest receiver on another team you've gone against?
A: Chris Horn of Arizona - he's a little guy and he gets lost in the crowd
sometimes. Greg Hopkins of Los Angeles - he's just tough.

Q: What has been the most difficult arena for you to play in?
A: Arizona or Dallas. The crowds get into the game and their team. They are
very loud. I think Arizona has some of the best hecklers.

 

The SaberCats defense of their title continues this Sunday as the Arizona Rattlers comes to San Jose in a rematch of last year's ArenaBowl XVI.

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Prime Position
Clevan Thomas avoids the dreaded 'Sophomore Slump' and has his SaberCats poised to defend their ArenaBowl title.

All too often, a player coming off a great rookie campaign fails to live up to the high expectations set by that stellar first season.

In Clevan Thomas' case, those expectations were exceptionally high.

Thomas began his Arena Football career with the San Jose SaberCats in 2002 following a four-year letterman stint as a cornerback at Florida State University (1997-2001), winning a national championship in 2000.

Clevan quickly made a name for himself in the AFL, earning the 2002 Defensive Player of the Year award, as well as being named the 2002 Rookie of the Year.

Team success also followed Thomas, as the SaberCats took home the ArenaBowl XVI title.