Two former Pella standout football athletes are thriving on the Drake Bulldogs defense this season.

Nathan Clayberg, a 2013 Pella graduate and fifth-year senior at Drake, is tied for the team lead with five tackles for loss and two sacks. In September, Clayberg was named to the Allstate American Football Coaches of America Good Works Team for his efforts off the field.

Will Warner, a two-time state champion at Pella in 2014 and 2015, has become a shutdown corner for the Bulldogs, leading the team with three interceptions and a touchdown.

Warner earned Pioneer Football League honors in week three for his performance as defensive player of the week, an honor Clayberg earned in week five. Drake is allowing just under 20 points per game with a 3-2 record.