When the clock reads all zeroes inside Yankee Stadium on Saturday, it will be the end of an illustrious Syracuse career for safety Shamarko Thomas. He will leave as a first-team All-Big East performer, a member of the school’s top-10 list for career tackles by a defensive back and a potential NFL draft pick.

Thomas, the unquestioned leader of the Syracuse defense this season, is known for being a ball of muscle with an infectious smile. He’s dished out vicious hits throughout his career, demonstrating the ability to play both the run and the pass while exemplifying a work ethic bordering on maniacal (Thomas has been known to push cars around on South Campus for extra workouts).

In 2012, Thomas led the Orange in total tackles by a wide margin — 17 to be exact. His total of 84 (60 of which were solo tackles), was a career high. And his ball-hawking nature was demonstrated through three forced fumbles, two interceptions, one sack and one fumble recovery.

His career at Syracuse has been an emotional one to say the least, as the Virginia Beach, Va. native lost both of his parents in the span of a year and took on the responsibility of caring for his siblings. He’s spoken openly about his desire to reach the NFL and support the rest of his family, meaning Saturday’s game against West Virginia is his final opportunity to impress scouts before Pro Day in the spring.

Thomas and his secondary mates will be tested by West Virginia quarterback Geno Smith, a precision passer who many are expecting to be the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft. Look for Thomas to go out with a bang — literally — and dish out a few more big hits in his final game for Syracuse.

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