Texas A&M - Kingsville Athletics

Clarkson anchored a defensive effort for the Javelinas in a 36-10 win against Eastern New Mexico to open the LSC schedule. He also brought home the LSC Defensive Player of the Week award as he compiled six tackles and 1.5 sacks along with a forced fumble in the win.

He posted a solo sack early in the third quarter on ENMU’s Nathan Valencia and knocked the ball free as it was eventually covered by the Hogs and turned into seven points on the ensuring TAMUK possession.

The Houston native was part of the Javelina defensive effort that held the Greyhounds to 124 total yards of offense, 66 through the air and 58 on the ground. It was the third consecutive game to open the season where the Hogs held their opponents to fewer than 100 yards on the ground and fifth straight dating back to the start of head coach Mike Salinas’ tenure. It was also the third consecutive game the Javelina defense forced multiple turnovers as the unit also recorded a safety early in the second half.

The Blue and Gold have also allowed only 11 points per game thus far into the campaign, 20th in the nation and best in the LSC.

The last time a Hog defender took home the honor was Alex Kuyinu on October 24, 2016, when he finished with a career-high four sacks in the come-from-behind 21-17 win over Tarleton as he finished with six tackles and was part of the defense effort that limited the Texans to 21 rushing yards.