Joey Verret was the Dairy Queen of Marshall Defensive Player of the Game. Below is an interview getting to know Verret and playing for head coach Calvin Ruzicka. Other Dairy Queen Players of the Game were Cornelius Banks (offensive) and Zay Thomas (special teams).
 
Playing Under Coach Calvin Ruzicka
Playing for new head coach Calvin Ruzicka has been an incredible experience. Coach Ruzicka brings a new energy and enthusiasm to the team, which has really motivated us to elevate our performance on the field. He's a great mentor, always pushing us to be the best versions of ourselves both on and off the field. Under his guidance, we've seen significant improvements in our individual skills and overall team performance. Coach Ruzicka's coaching style emphasizes discipline, hard work, and teamwork, which has made a positive impact on our game.
 
Getting Tackles as a Linebacker
Being a linebacker and running around making tackles is an exhilarating feeling. It's like an adrenaline rush every time I see an opportunity to make a big play and stop the opposing team's offense in their tracks. As a linebacker, I have to be quick, agile, and have a strong instinct for reading the opponent's offense. When I see an opening, I go for it without hesitation. The satisfaction of making a tackle and disrupting the other team's momentum is indescribable. It's all about being aggressive, focused, and ready to make an impact on every play.
 
The Feeling of a Big Hit
When you deliver a big hit and get up from it, there's this overwhelming sense of excitement and accomplishment. It's like a rush of adrenaline surging through your veins, knowing that you've just made a significant impact on the game. The crowd erupts with cheers, the energy on the field intensifies, and it's such a satisfying feeling to know that your effort has made a difference. The physicality of the game and the collisions that come with it can be intense, but the feeling of a big hit is what drives me to keep pushing myself on the field.
 
Favorite Item at Dairy Queen
Ah, Dairy Queen. My favorite item there has to be their signature Blizzard. I mean, who can resist that perfect blend of silky-smooth soft serve ice cream mixed with all sorts of decadent toppings and flavors? It's like a sweet paradise in a cup. Whenever I have a craving for something sweet and refreshing, a Blizzard from Dairy Queen hits the spot every time. Plus, they have so many different flavors to choose from, it's hard to pick just one favorite. But I can never go wrong with the classic Oreo Blizzard. It's pure bliss.
 
The Turnover Belt and Its Significance
Getting a turnover in a game is a huge achievement, and receiving the turnover belt is just the cherry on top. When a member of our defense forces a fumble, intercepts a pass, or makes any other game-changing defensive play, they get to proudly wear the turnover belt. It's a symbol of our success and a reminder of the hard work we put in to force turnovers. Wearing the belt brings a sense of pride and camaraderie among teammates. It's a celebration of our collective efforts to create game-changing moments on the field. Plus, it's a cool visual representation of our defensive dominance.