Quiet … unassuming … Regular college scholar-athlete.

At first glance, McMurry University rising junior Herman Lee fits those traits to a tee.

Put him on a football field, and things tend to change and not for the better for opposing offenses.

After a freshman campaign where he found his footing in the program along with his classmates, his sophomore year was something special. He recorded 60 tackles, 11.5 for opposing losses. He made himself even more comfortable in the opposition offensive backfield with nine and a half sacks, a new single-season record overtaking All-Century Team member Brian Valenzuela's old mark of nine set in 2000.

Second-team all-league honors in the always-rugged American Southwest Conference were garnered for the Prosper, Texas, native. Like his hometown's moniker, Lee is looking for even more in 2023.

"Ever since I stepped on a football field at age five, I've loved everything about it," he admitted. "It teaches you life lessons – to be accountable for teammates, showing up on time, and doing the right thing when no one is watching. It's all about integrity."

The gridiron for the Lee family was a replication of so many families across the Lone Star State. It was a tradition. His grandfather started it followed by his dad and then his older brother. When it came time for him to step into the cleats and pads, he chose number 22 to honor his grandfather, the group's patriarch.

"I wouldn't have the opportunities I've had throughout my playing career without my family," he said. "To me, paying respect to my grandfather in high school was an easy choice. He led the way in making football what it is for our family."

"He and my dad are two of my biggest mentors in life and football," he added. "We are football nerds. We watch it together all the time. I picked up the basics from both of them."

War Hawks head coach Jordan Neal and his staff couldn't be more thankful. The life classroom created by Herman Lee I and Herman Lee II has created not just a defensive terminator but also a Maroon and White leader.

"Defensive leadership is so important on and off the field," Lee noted. "It's come naturally to me due to my roles. Coach Neal talked to me during the summer and indicated he wants me to continue leading by example. I've also spoken with (assistant head coach/defensive coordinator Will) Snyder. He wants me to do that and be more vocal – kind of a walk the walk and talk the talk situation."

"I feel like last season I cemented what I can on the field," he added. "We have a good freshman class coming in, and myself and all of the returners are looking forward to being mentors to the younger guys. We remember how difficult it was being the young guys. We can now show others the ropes."

What he's asked for fits into his academic double major in sports leadership and management. It's team first for Lee and his defensive mates, much like it is in his field of study.

"We have to be able not just to follow directions but execute, too," he said. "We all like to hit and be physical. It's time to bring all of us together to get some important goals done."