After being cut from the CFL, Eddie Lackey connected with staff at D1 Sports training facility in Abilene. In helping individuals reach their goals, he found his passion.

There’s only a minute left in the half as Floyd Casey’s sea of black roars waiting for Oklahoma to snap the ball. Seconds later, the ball is in senior linebacker Eddie Lackey’s hands as he comes away with the interception sending the crowd into a frenzy. Forty-seven seconds later, the Baylor offense makes the Sooners pay.

Baylor’s defense has forced 60 turnovers in the last 25 games. Statistics don’t always tell the whole story, and while Lackey’s stats speak volumes, it’s the intangibles that make the difference. Lackey’s leadership has been on display this season as his intensity has fueled the defense to play to its highest potential.

Baylor football left the Alamadome field victorious on Dec. 30, 2011. The team returned the field Tuesday for the first time since to begin spring practice.

Head coach Art Briles announced Wednesday that 23 student-athletes have signed their National Letter of Intent to play football at Baylor.