Charlie Cleveland loves to make opposing team's offenses miserable on game day.

For the last two seasons, Cleveland has done just that. He has twice been named GMAC Defensive Lineman of the Year. Cleveland tied for the league lead in sacks with 5 and was second in tackles for a loss with 8. He finished with an average of 5.5 tackles per game and continues to be a monster up front while stuffing the run or getting into the opponent's backfield. 

Combined with his strong showing in 2019 (8.5 sacks, 18 tackles for loss, 61 tackles), Cleveland is moving up the Dragons record books. He is currently 8th in career tackles for loss with 36 and fifth in career sacks with 18, trailing TU standout Lewie Montgomery in both categories (51 tackles for loss, 30 sacks). If Cleveland duplicates or improves on his 2019 performance, both records could fall this season.

Achieving both of those goals would also benefit the overall defense, which dominated GMAC play with the best defensive numbers in the conference (8.7 ppg allowed, 208.7 yards per game allowed). According to Cleveland, the defensive domination made great strides in the spring of 2021.

"At first when we were practicing, the defense was not gelling," said Cleveland. "It wasn't coming together between the defensive line, the linebackers, and the defensive backs. But then (TU linebacker) Brandon Burks reminded us about something that Nelson Mandela said. He said, I am not my best self without you being your best self. That philosophy made us come together and play as a team."

"He has grown tremendously as a leader since fall of 2019," said TU Head Coach Cris Reisert. "Besides his ability, he now understands the defense better, and knows when to take chances or support the team within our schemes. He definitely has a chance to capitalize on his talent this year."

Cleveland's overall athleticism and speed at 6-4, 250 pounds gives him an edge over nearly everyone trying to block him.

"He plays with great effort," said Reisert. "He is more athletic and faster than anyone trying to block him. He is very hard to manage."

Cleveland also recognized the importance of the 2021 spring season heading into the fall.

"Coach Reisert told us last year not to take the spring season for granted," said  Cleveland. "Every game counts. These were not scrimmages. Those games last spring would reflect on what we were going to do this season. We feel right now the program is flying sky high. We plan on winning a national championship."

As far as beyond his TU career, Cleveland has a clear focus on what is important to him.

"I hope to get to the NFL, get a good job, and raise my family," said Cleveland.