Maliek Collins wins HyVee Athlete of the Week

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - We're switching up this week's Athlete of the Week in order to show some love for the defensive line.

Maliek Collins of Center High School had five tackles and a sack Friday night in a 33-0 win against Clinton for the conference championship.

"It's very exciting. We see our potential and we're trying to reach it," Collins said. "You just have to hold your link and step up when your team needs you."

The senior defensive tackle already has scholarship offers from Kansas, Missouri and Iowa State.

Oklahoma and Nebraska are also interested.

"He's just a very explosive athlete for such a big man. His work ethic has contributed to his explosiveness and development in the weight room. He's a worker," head coach Bryan DeLong said.

Collins also wrestles and throws the shot put and discus.

Center High School is 7-2 this season. The play their first district game Thursday night at home against Odessa.