BOISE -- There's a cliche often used in sports: "Bigger and better than before."
For Boise State left tackle Ezra Cleveland, it certainly applies.
As a freshman last season, Cleveland was one of the biggest surprises of fall camp. He earned the starting role at left tackle, and eventually went on to become the only offensive lineman to start all 14 games.
Not bad for a kid that just a couple years ago, never envisioned this type of success.
"When I was in high school, I never thought I was going to play college football," Cleveland said. "But I got that first offer and started working. I played last year and it was unbelievable."
Cleveland's performance earned him an All-Mountain West honorable mention.
And though it has only been four months since last season ended, Cleveland has gone from 296 pounds to 310 pounds.
In addition to pizza, he's says his crockpot is a go-to appliance in the kitchen.
"Just a lot of carbs and calories," Cleveland said.