Jamar Fletcher led the Big Ten in interceptions for three straight years. Fletcher's 21 interceptions are a Wisconsin Badgers record.
His career stats include 130 tackles in addition to the 21 interceptions. Fletcher was the catalyst in the Badgers' defense, and his graduation left a gaping hole in the Badgers' defensive secondary.
In stepped true-freshman defensive back Scott Starks to close that space. Starks, from St. Louis, attended Hazelwood East, the same high school as Jamar Fletcher. But the similarities end there.
In fact, Starks didn't even play in the secondary until he came to Wisconsin. Throughout his high school career, Starks spent most of his time as a running back.
'It's been real tough adjusting, because in high school I didn't get to play defensive back, so I've had to learn all the defensive schemes,' Starks said.
Starks' lack of experience in the secondary has not been evident, given his key interceptions this year against Oregon and Fresno State.
Starks attributes some of his early success to having senior defensive back Mike Echols holding down the other side.
'Echols has taught me a lot about my side, because he's been here for a while and seen a lot happen,' Starks said.
With teams throwing toward his side of the field, Starks feels that he will have to step up and make the big plays.
'With teams gunning for me, that helps me to gain more experience and learn faster,' Starks said. 'I've seen some good receivers, but I'm sure I'll see more, and I'm going to improve.'
The transition from high school football to being a defensive starter on a Big Ten team has been a battle for Starks.
'At first I thought the biggest difference would be the physical, but I was prepared physically and now I'm seeing it's the mental,' Starks said. 'Learning the schemes [has] definitely been more mentally draining than physically draining.'
Starks has been happy with his performance so far, but he is still learning.
'I'm still a little tentative with Big Ten play coming up, and I have to get my confidence level up,' Starks said. 'I also have to have a short-term memory, because if I miss a play I have to put it by me, and make the next play.'
Starks knows that some tough competition is ahead for the Badgers. With three games behind them and conference opponent Penn State ahead this Saturday, Starks is optimistic about the rest of the season.
'We had a few tough losses, but we feel we're on the right track,' Starks said.
As far as his own play is concerned, Starks said he will have to add a few elements to his game.
'Personally, I always want to improve as a player, and I'm pleased with how I've been performing, but I want to get better each day,' Starks said. 'Right now, I just want to gain more confidence.'
With Big Ten play opening up for the Badgers this weekend, Starks will have a chance to step up and show everyone what a freshman can do.
