Temple University Athletics
TWO FORMER TEMPLE FOOTBALL TEAMMATES TO MEET IN AFC CHAMPIONSHIP GAME
1.12.04 | Football
Temple's 2001 defense ranked 19th nationally in total defense, allowing just 312.64 yards per game with Brock and Klecko leading the way.
Brock (Philadelphia, Pa./Dobbins Technical H.S.), the Colts' starting left defensive end, made 42 tackles (33 solo), two sacks, 17 quarterback pressures, one forced fumble and three fumble recoveries during this year's regular season. In two playoff games, he had nine tackles (five solo), three quarterback pressures and blocked a field goal.
Klecko (Colts Neck, N.J./Marlboro H.S.) made 17 tackles (12 solo), two sacks, a fumble recovery and a blocked kick during his rookie NFL season. He is currently listed on the Patriots' depth chart at three positions: defensive tackle, defensive end and outside linebacker. Klecko also lines up at fullback in the Patriots' goal-line offense, creating the potential for a head-to-head meeting between the former teammates with a touchdown at stake.
Brock concluded his collegiate career in 2001 by playing in the Blue-Gray All-Star Classic. In 37 career games (33 starts) in Cherry & White, he made 160 tackles (93 solo), 30 tackles-for-losses, 12 sacks, 35 quarterback hurries, 16 pass break-ups, four forced fumbles and six fumble recoveries.
Klecko finished his Owl career by being named the 2002 Big East Defensive Player of the Year and was a Second Team Associated Press All-American. In 40 career games (36 starts) for the Cherry & White, he made 204 tackles (142 solo), 65 TFLs, 26 sacks, 70 QBHs, five forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries.
Brock and Klecko were both four-year letterwinners at Temple under head coach Bobby Wallace. The two are looking to follow in the footsteps of another former Owl, linebacker Alshermond Singleton. Singleton, currently a Dallas Cowboy, won a Super Bowl ring last year as a member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
