ISU's Klein awakes to top Big 12 honor

AMES - The cellphone rang.

Iowa State linebacker A.J. Klein awoke from his power nap, rubbed his eyes, answered, and couldn't believe the words his father, Len, spoke.

Big 12 co-defensive player of the year?

Really, dad?

“I was shocked to say the least,” said Klein, who earned that distinction Wednesday from conference coaches. “I told him, ‘You'd better not be joking,' and he said, ‘No, I wouldn't kid about something like that.'”

Klein - who owns a Cyclone record three interception returns for touchdown in his career - had plenty of close company on the league's 2011 honors list.

Example No. 1: Junior college transfer Aaron Horne was named the Big 12's offensive newcomer of the year after averaging 11.7 yards per catch.

“We are thrilled that A.J. and Aaron have been singled out for their great seasons,” Cyclone coach Paul Rhoads - who was in New York City for a Pinstripe Bowl news conference - said in a statement. “To earn all-league honors in the Big 12 is one the highest praises you can receive in college football.”

Offensive tackle Kelechi Osemele joined Klein on the all-Big 12 first team.

Linebacker mate Jake Knott earned second team honors, along with offensive guard Hayworth Hicks and cornerback Leonard Johnson.

“I can't say enough about my team,” Klein said.

Rhoads said in November the “light went on” for Klein early this season and he continued to improve his preparation, technique and ability to make plays in space.

Klein, of Kimberly, Wis., totaled 101 tackles and two sacks in the regular season. He also had 7.5 tackles for loss, five pass breakups and three quarterback hurries.

“It was just doing what the coaches told me,” Klein said when asked what allowed him to reach this level. “Taking it week by week and trying to improve as the season went on; always trying to become a better player. I think by the end of the season I was playing the highest quality football I have for a long time.”

Knott notched a team-high 107 tackles while playing through several injuries, including a dislocated shoulder. He had arm surgery during the spring and still played in every game this season.

“Not too many players in the Big 12 could do what he did with the injuries he's had,” Klein said. “He's pushed through them and I know he's motivated to keep on truckin.”

The Cyclones roll into New York City in less than three weeks to prepare for the Dec. 30 Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium.

Practices resume this weekend.

Klein won't need a wake-up call.

“It's nice to know we have a little bit of down time,” Klein said. “Preparation is a big part of our game plan, so this extra time is beneficial to us.”