FALL CAMP Q&A: Marcus Jackson
8/9/2007 12:00:00 AM | Football
During the recruiting process, what went into your decision to attend TCU?
"Earning my degree is very important in my family. Football is not guaranteed but you can make a great future for yourself with a degree. TCU has one of the top business schools and that's what I was looking at. The coaches told me I would have the chance to play early. I have an opportunity to excel not only on the field but in the academic world as well."
Since you've arrived on campus, there have been facility improvements with the Sam Baugh Indoor Practice facility and the end zone project. What does that mean to you as a student-athlete?
"We feel a lot of appreciation to so many people. It shows what hard work and dedication can do. Since I've been here the last two seasons, we've gone over 10 wins each year. We are out here working hard, and it's rewarding to see what's taking place."
What would you tell people who are considering attending TCU?
"TCU is a friendly environment that provides more one-on-one interaction with your professors. That helped me a lot. In high school, I wasn't nearly as close to my teachers as I am now. I can actually e-mail my professors and have conversations outside of class. You also have classes with people who are your friends on campus and you've seen in other classes you've had."
What's it like playing for Coach Patterson?
"I like Coach Patterson. He brings a lot of intensity. He is trying to take us to a level we can't reach by ourselves. Off the field, he is as down to earth as I am. He has related to everyone in the locker room at some point in time with a conversation outside of football."
What can you tell us about the camaraderie on the team?
"It's due to the commitment we make to each other on and off the field. We don't try to separate ourselves too much. There have been times we've all gone out to the bowling alley. At the same time, we want to give ourselves our own space. You build that friendship and that is what you need. When you line up next to a guy on any given play, he is not just your teammate but also your friend. You went bowling and to the movies with him. It means more to you as a player to be accountable for your brother in a sense."
