Pac-12 Coaches Notice Same Two Players

Pac-12 coaches consistently highlight Washington State's Linus Zunk and Matyus McLain as key defensive threats.

Sean Lewis Highlights Zunk and McLain

San Diego State coach Sean Lewis named senior Linus Zunk and junior Matyus McLain as Washington State's dynamic edges.

“Dynamic edges”

Zunk and McLain on Mention Lists

Zunk and McLain were top of Boise State's mention list a week ago and high on Oregon State's unsolicited checklist two weeks ago.

Why They Work Well Together

Moore says Zunk has power and McLain has twitch, creating chaos in opposing backfields and stopping runs early.

“Linus can play with a little bit more power at times. Matyus has some really good twitch on the perimeter of making moves on (offensive) tackles, and creating a rush.”

Zunk's Background

Zunk grew up in Berlin, Germany, played basketball early, then football at Rabun Gap-Nacoochee High School in Georgia.

McLain's Background

McLain is an Idaho small-town product who won two games at Priest River before joining Washington State.

McLain's Resilience

McLain says he has lost before but will keep going, not rolling over and quitting with his team.

“I’ve lost before - it happens. The only thing you can do is keep going. I am not going to roll over and quit, and I don’t think anyone else in the locker room is going to do that, either.”

McLain's Hobby

McLain paints LEGO 'Star Wars' scenes and his dog in a cowboy hat during downtime.

“I’ve painted a LEGO 'Star Wars' scene and my dog in a cowboy hat.”

Their Impact

Zunk and McLain create enough chaos for coaches to mention them weekly despite only three sacks and six quarterback hurries.

“Watch the tape, we are all over the (offensive) line. It is no question about it.”

What Happens Next

Pac-12 coaches will continue to highlight Zunk and McLain as Washington State's defensive leaders.