Aug. 2, 2007
GoRedbirds.com: Being from Orlando, Fla., how did you end up at Illinois State?
Jarek Thomas: Assistant coach Galen Scott actually recruited me. His coach was my high school coach and I played Pop-Warner football for his dad when I was little. Coach Scott came to practice one day and wanted to know if I wanted to come play football at Illinois State. We talked to my mom, Coach "J" (Denver Johnson) came to visit my house and I signed on the spot.
GR: What is the best thing about Illinois as compared to Florida?
JT: That is a tough question...I guess I will go with the seasons. I like the snow a little bit, but it gets pretty old pretty quick.
GR: If coach Johnson let you play offense for one game, which position would you choose?
JT: Quarterback, just to run the option. Maybe fullback.
GR: If you could choose any other position on defense what would it be, and what are the odds of coach Johnson ever allowing you to play that position?
JT: We talk about it all the time. I would play linebacker, but coach Johnson would never do that. I would want to blitz on every play.
GR: What is your favorite food?
JT: I don't have a favorite, I just like to eat.
GR: What is your favorite football movie?
JT: It's either Any Given Sunday or Varsity Blues.
GR: We are going to make you choose, so which is the better football movie: Varsity Blues or Any Given Sunday?
JT: I'd have to say Varsity Blues just because I relate to those kids and that movie came out around when I was in high school.
GR: If someone were making a movie of your life, which actor would you choose to play yourself?
JT: It would have to be someone funny, like Mike Epps or Chris Tucker.
GR: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
JT: I have no idea. I would like to see myself playing football in the NFL but if not I would like to get into real estate.
GR: What is the best thing about playing football for Illinois State?
JT: The atmosphere. The town is getting more involved and it is really just a great atmosphere.
GR: What is one thing you want to accomplish in your final season at Illinois State?
JT: I just want to have the best season I can possibly have. I want to be better than I was last year.
GR: What is your favorite NFL team?
JT: I would have to say the Jaguars because of "Hawk" (former Illinois State defensive end Brent Hawkins).
GR: What is one thing about you that fans may not know?
JT: I'm not as mean as I look.
GR: Other than football, what is your favorite sport to watch?
JT: Boxing. I love to watch boxing.
GR: If you won $1 million in the lottery, what is the first thing you would do?
JT: Pay off my Mom's house.
GR: Moving from Florida to Illinois, what was your biggest adjustment as a freshman?
JT: I came up by myself so getting to know people and making all new friends.
GR: Before a game, what type of music do you listen to?
JT: All kinds, I'm big on getting hyped.
GR: What pro player would you say your game most resembles?
JT: Warren Sapp.
GR: Would you rather sack the opposing QB, intercept a pass on defense or get a carry at fullback on offense?
JT: Well, I've had an interception and I've gotten a sack, so I would have to say a carry at fullback because it is the only one I have not done.
GR: What is your favorite pre-game meal?
JT: Steak.
