Sal Conaboy - 65 Maryland 6-3 290
2014: Played in 13 games.
2013: An All-Academic ACC selection. A member of the team’s leadership council. Received The Public Service Award at the team banquet for his service to the community as a student-athlete. Started the first 12 games at center as a part of a line that helped Maryland pass for over 3,000 yards for the first time since 1994. Helped Brandon Ross achieve a career-high 149 yards rushing against Old Dominion (9/7). Helped the Terps average 179.3 yards a game on the ground over the first six contests. Helped Brown go for 122 rushing yards against Connecticut (9/14). Helped pave the way for Brandon Ross’ 88 yards against Virginia (10/12). Enabled C.J. Brown to tie a season high with 122 yards rushing against Virginia Tech (11/16). Enabled the Terps to rush for 179 yards at NC State (11/30) including a season-high 138 for C.J. Brown.
2012: Started seven games at center and played in nine. Helped hold William & Mary without a sack (9/1). Part of the line that helped lead Maryland to rush for 144 yards against Temple (9/8). Earned the offensive game ball for his play against the Owls. Helped open lanes for Wes Brown to set career-highs with 14 rushes for 74 yards (5.3 avg.) and one touchdown vs. Connecticut (9/15). Missed the NC State (10/20) and Boston College (10/27) games with an ankle injury. Returned against Georgia Tech (11/3) and played a reserve role. Played a reserve role on the line that helped Maryland run for 139 yards against Clemson (11/10). Did not play in the Florida State (11/17 game. Started the final game of the season at North Carolina (11/24) and helped lead the Terps to 188 yards rushing.
2011: Saw action in five games at center, including two starts. Helped the offense rank third in the ACC in rushing (169.3 yards per game) and fourth in fewest sacks allowed (1.4 pg). Saw time as a reserve in the season opener vs. Miami (9/5). Helped the team run for 198 yards against Towson (10/1), including 102 by Davin Meggett, while holding the Tigers without a sack. Played extensively vs. Notre Dame (11/12) after replacing an injured Bennett Fulper. Started the final two games of the season - Wake Forest (11/19) and NC State (11/26) - for Fulper.
2010: Served a redshirt season.. Listed as a reserve at center.
High School: At Abington Heights High School in Pennsylvania.: A 2009 first-team Class AAA All-Pennsylvania selection. Also selected to the Pennsylvania Sports Writers all-state team after his senior season. The No. 10-ranked offensive guard in the nation by Scout.com. The No. 15-ranked offensive guard in the nation by Rivals.com. The 18th-best player in the state of Pennsylvania according to Rivals.com. Ranked the No. 21 offensive guard in the nation by Scouts, Inc.. Led the Comets to the 2009 District II Championship. Honored with the 2009 Hookey Reap Award, which goes to the top offensive lineman in Lackawanna County. Selected to participate in the 2010 Big 33 Football Classic. Also considered Pittsburgh, Rutgers, Connecticut, West Virginia and Minnesota. Coached by Joe Repshis.
Personal: Born in Scranton, Pa.. Father is Conan Conaboy. Interned with the United States Marshals Service prior to the 2014 season. Organized the Relay for Life in high school which raised money for cancer patients. Chose Maryland because of the home-like environment and football facilities. Majoring in criminology and criminal justice.
Saturday, January 31, 2015
41. Tim Wynn - Georgia State
Tim Wynn - 50 Georgia State 6-3 300
2014: Played 12 games. Honorable mention All-Sun Belt Conference. Elected a permanent team captain for 2014. Started every game at center and helped the Panthers lead the conference in passing.
2013: Began the season as the Panthers’ starting left guard but finished as the starting center. Started the first six games at left guard before sitting out the Texas State game due to injury. Returned the following game at ULM, when he did not start but entered the game at center after injuries to starter Ronald Martin and backup Mark Ruskell. Was the fifth different center the Panthers used in 2013. Remained at center and started the final four games there.
2012: Started every game at left guard, rarely coming out of the game. Moved into the starting lineup after a redshirt year in 2011.
2010: Earned playing time as a true freshman. Played in four games during the inaugural season, relieving starter Ben Jacoby at center. Saw action in wins over Morehead State, Savannah State and Lamar as well as the game at Alabama.
High School: First-team all-state offensive lineman in Class AAAA by both the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and Associated Press. First-team all-region (5-AAAA) and first-team all-area for the Atlanta Public Schools. Also an all-region selection as a junior. Played at Mays High in Georgia. Participated in the Georgia North-South All-Star Game in Columbus, Ga., following his senior season.
Personal: Timothy Wynn, Jr. is the son of Heteria and Tim Wynn. Born Nov. 18, 1991.
2014: Played 12 games. Honorable mention All-Sun Belt Conference. Elected a permanent team captain for 2014. Started every game at center and helped the Panthers lead the conference in passing.
2013: Began the season as the Panthers’ starting left guard but finished as the starting center. Started the first six games at left guard before sitting out the Texas State game due to injury. Returned the following game at ULM, when he did not start but entered the game at center after injuries to starter Ronald Martin and backup Mark Ruskell. Was the fifth different center the Panthers used in 2013. Remained at center and started the final four games there.
2012: Started every game at left guard, rarely coming out of the game. Moved into the starting lineup after a redshirt year in 2011.
2010: Earned playing time as a true freshman. Played in four games during the inaugural season, relieving starter Ben Jacoby at center. Saw action in wins over Morehead State, Savannah State and Lamar as well as the game at Alabama.
High School: First-team all-state offensive lineman in Class AAAA by both the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and Associated Press. First-team all-region (5-AAAA) and first-team all-area for the Atlanta Public Schools. Also an all-region selection as a junior. Played at Mays High in Georgia. Participated in the Georgia North-South All-Star Game in Columbus, Ga., following his senior season.
Personal: Timothy Wynn, Jr. is the son of Heteria and Tim Wynn. Born Nov. 18, 1991.
42. Marcus Matthews - Miami Ohio
Marcus Matthews - 75 Miami Ohio 6-3 325
2014: Played in and started nine games at center.
2013: Played in five games, making three starts for the RedHawks’ offensive line. Saw a majority of his time at center.
2012: Started first 10 games of the season as a sophomore. Was starting right guard against Ohio State. Moved to left guard for next nine games. Part of offensive line that helped Miami’s passing game average 298.7 yards per contest, which ranked 22nd among FBS teams.
2011: Played in 10 of Miami's 12 games as a true freshman, starting nine times, including each of the last eight. Matthews and fellow freshman Zach Lewis were both in the starting lineup vs. Bowling Green, Toledo, Western Michigan and Ohio. Miami's passing game averaged 299 yards per contest, a figure that ranked 14th among 120 Division 1 teams.
High School: Attended Osbourn High School in Virginia. Coached by Steve Schultze, Matthews earned first-team all-state honors as an offensive lineman in 2010 and was a first-team all-district two-way lineman (OL and DL). Was the lineman the Eagle running backs ran behind, accumulating 3,500 rushing yards and 1,506 passing yards in 13 games. The team also averaged 41 points per game en route to reaching the state semifinal game (12-1 record). Defensively, had 58 tackles, 12 TFLs, six QB sacks, caused two fumbles and blocked a kick as a senior. During his three letter-winning years at Osbourne, the Eagles won 30 games and lost 10, including a berth in the state finals his junior year. Earned three letters as a heavyweight wrestler.
Personal: Born January 19, 1993. Son of Scott and Stephanie Matthews. Majoring in sport leadership and management.
2014: Played in and started nine games at center.
2013: Played in five games, making three starts for the RedHawks’ offensive line. Saw a majority of his time at center.
2012: Started first 10 games of the season as a sophomore. Was starting right guard against Ohio State. Moved to left guard for next nine games. Part of offensive line that helped Miami’s passing game average 298.7 yards per contest, which ranked 22nd among FBS teams.
2011: Played in 10 of Miami's 12 games as a true freshman, starting nine times, including each of the last eight. Matthews and fellow freshman Zach Lewis were both in the starting lineup vs. Bowling Green, Toledo, Western Michigan and Ohio. Miami's passing game averaged 299 yards per contest, a figure that ranked 14th among 120 Division 1 teams.
High School: Attended Osbourn High School in Virginia. Coached by Steve Schultze, Matthews earned first-team all-state honors as an offensive lineman in 2010 and was a first-team all-district two-way lineman (OL and DL). Was the lineman the Eagle running backs ran behind, accumulating 3,500 rushing yards and 1,506 passing yards in 13 games. The team also averaged 41 points per game en route to reaching the state semifinal game (12-1 record). Defensively, had 58 tackles, 12 TFLs, six QB sacks, caused two fumbles and blocked a kick as a senior. During his three letter-winning years at Osbourne, the Eagles won 30 games and lost 10, including a berth in the state finals his junior year. Earned three letters as a heavyweight wrestler.
Personal: Born January 19, 1993. Son of Scott and Stephanie Matthews. Majoring in sport leadership and management.
43. Mike Marboe - Idaho
Mike Marboe -74 Idaho 6-2 296
2014: Played in 11 games. Made 47 consecutive starts.
2013: Once again, member of the Rimington Award Watch list . Continued his string of successive starts to finish the season at 36.
2012: Stretched his consecutive starts streak to 24 games. Member of 2012 Rimington Award Watch List.
2011: Started all 12 games at center. Rimington Award Watch List.
2010: Redshirted after joining the Vandals in January 2010 as an early high school graduate.
High school: As a senior, first-team all-League. Helped Wenatchee High School in Washington to undefeated regular season and within one game of 4A state tournament. As a junior, Class 4A First Team All-State selection. Big Nine Conference First Team selection. As a sophomore, all -conference center selection. As a freshman, Freshman Lineman of the Year.
Personal: Son of Scott and Maribeth Marboe. Born Jan. 24, 1992. Father, Scott, and grandfather both played for the Vandals.
2014: Played in 11 games. Made 47 consecutive starts.
2013: Once again, member of the Rimington Award Watch list . Continued his string of successive starts to finish the season at 36.
2012: Stretched his consecutive starts streak to 24 games. Member of 2012 Rimington Award Watch List.
2011: Started all 12 games at center. Rimington Award Watch List.
2010: Redshirted after joining the Vandals in January 2010 as an early high school graduate.
High school: As a senior, first-team all-League. Helped Wenatchee High School in Washington to undefeated regular season and within one game of 4A state tournament. As a junior, Class 4A First Team All-State selection. Big Nine Conference First Team selection. As a sophomore, all -conference center selection. As a freshman, Freshman Lineman of the Year.
Personal: Son of Scott and Maribeth Marboe. Born Jan. 24, 1992. Father, Scott, and grandfather both played for the Vandals.
44. Robert Waterman - UNLV
Robert Waterman - 79 UNLV 6-2 290
2104: Played in 13 games.
2013: Started all 13 games at center. Received Honorable Mention All-MW.
2012: Started all 13 games at center. One of five returning starters up front for the Rebels, he went on to receive Honorable Mention All-Mountain West. A member of the Rimington Award Watch List. Named a Preseason Second Team All-MW offensive lineman by Lindy's.
2011: Started all 12 games at center and earned Honorable Mention All-MW.
2010: Redshirted season after joining program in January.
2009: Grayshirted after signing with UNLV in February.
High School: A 2009 graduate of West Ranch HS in Stevenson, CA. A three-time letterwinner for coach Mike Kane. Named First Team All-Foothill League as a junior and senior. Had more than 100 pancake blocks over his final two prep seasons playing guard and tackle. Also posted 16 tackles as a defensive tackle in 2008.
Personal: Robert Philip Waterman was born Sept. 16, 1991, in Panorama City, CA. The son of Carol and Wayne Waterman. Has two brothers, Daniel and Nathan. Earned his degree in criminal justice and is currently pursuing a second bachelor's in public administration.
2104: Played in 13 games.
2013: Started all 13 games at center. Received Honorable Mention All-MW.
2012: Started all 13 games at center. One of five returning starters up front for the Rebels, he went on to receive Honorable Mention All-Mountain West. A member of the Rimington Award Watch List. Named a Preseason Second Team All-MW offensive lineman by Lindy's.
2011: Started all 12 games at center and earned Honorable Mention All-MW.
2010: Redshirted season after joining program in January.
2009: Grayshirted after signing with UNLV in February.
High School: A 2009 graduate of West Ranch HS in Stevenson, CA. A three-time letterwinner for coach Mike Kane. Named First Team All-Foothill League as a junior and senior. Had more than 100 pancake blocks over his final two prep seasons playing guard and tackle. Also posted 16 tackles as a defensive tackle in 2008.
Personal: Robert Philip Waterman was born Sept. 16, 1991, in Panorama City, CA. The son of Carol and Wayne Waterman. Has two brothers, Daniel and Nathan. Earned his degree in criminal justice and is currently pursuing a second bachelor's in public administration.
Thursday, January 29, 2015
45. David Wang - Virginia Tech
David Wang - 76 Virginia Tech 6-3 308
2014: Started all 13 games. Logged 914 plays on offense. Was in on 51 offensive snaps, making the start at left guard against William & Mary. Had six knockdowns and didn’t miss a play on offense in the win at Ohio State. Was in on all 92 offensive snaps against East Carolina. Missed just one snap on offense against Georgia Tech. Had eight knockdowns while in on 64 snaps against Western Michigan. Was in on 80 plays on offense at North Carolina. Was in on all 72 snaps on offense at Pitt. Didn’t miss a play on offense against Miami. Had six knockdowns while in on all 78 plays on offense against Boston College. Didn’t miss a snap on offense, in on all 76 plays at Duke. Was in on all 70 plays on offense at Wake Forest. Missed just one snap on offense in the win over Virginia. Logged 38 snaps in the Military Bowl against Cincinnati. Injured his foot, but returned late in the game. Played in the Medal of Honor Bowl after the season.
2013: An honorable mention All-ACC selection by ACSMA and the coaches. Started all 13 games, playing 895 plays on offense and tallying 63 knockdowns. Started at center and was in on 55 snaps against Alabama in the season opener. Was in on 58 offensive snaps against Western Carolina. Logged all 77 snaps at center at East Carolina. Was in on 87 offensive snaps in the triple overtime win over Marshall. Was in at center on 49 offensive snaps at Georgia Tech. Saw action on 53 offensive snaps in the win over North Carolina. Was in on 53 snaps at center against Pittsburgh. Played all 87 snaps against Duke. Was in on 72 offensive plays at Boston College. Was named ACC Offensive Lineman of the Week after tallying 16 knockdowns while in on 81 snaps at Miami. Didn’t miss a snap on offense, in on all 70 plays against Maryland. Had 10 knockdowns while in on all 76 plays against Virginia. Played all 77 offensive snaps in the Sun Bowl. Was granted a sixth year of eligibility by the NCAA.
2012: Started 10 games at left guard, playing over 500 offensive snaps. In his first start, was in on all 72 offensive snaps and graded out at 81 percent to help the Hokies top Georgia Tech. Played 48 snaps and graded out at 85 percent against Austin. Saw limited action due to injury at Pittsburgh, but graded out at 88 percent, playing 30 snaps. Missed the Bowling Green and Cincinnati games due to injury. Returned to action at North Carolina but was only in on 43 offensive snaps. Graded out at 89 percent while in on all 79 snaps at Clemson. Was in on just 42 plays at Miami. Had three knockdowns while in on 49 snaps against Florida State. Was in on 71 snaps, grading out at 87 percent and adding four knockdowns at Boston College. Was limited to just 25 plays in the win over Virginia. Made the start against Rutgers in the Russell Athletic Bowl. An Iron Hokie in off-season testing. Saw work at guard and center during the spring. Saw limited practice time during the spring due to ankle troubles. Saw more work at center than guard. Was held out of the spring game.
2011: Played in two games. Totaled 37 snaps on offense and 12 on special teams for a total of 49. Played 29 snaps and graded 89 percent against Appalachian State. Played eight snaps on offense and two on special teams at ECU before suffering a broken foot. Was given the Coaches’ Award for his exceptional spring.
2010: Played in five games. Saw his first four snaps in the East Carolina game. Got 10 plays in the Central Michigan game. Picked up 19 snaps with a knockdown block against Wake Forest. Posted a knockdown while playing 25 snaps in the Duke game. Played a three-snap series in the Virginia game. Was a Super Iron Hokie during off-season workouts. Turned in a 410-pound bench press and a 440-pound front squat. Topped the offensive linemen with 380-pound clean, a 370-pound push jerk, a 35-inch vertical jump and a 4.29 timing in the NFL shuttle. Worked in the top spot at left guard in the absence of starter Greg Nosal. Earned the Dr. Richard Bullock Award after showing the most improvement among offensive players during spring workouts.
2009: Bench pressed 400 pounds after reporting in August. Began practice working at right guard. Suffered a shoulder injury in an early practice and underwent surgery. Sat out the season and was redshirted. Returned for off-season workouts and tied for the fourth-best back squat on the team at 530 pounds. Had the top vertical jump among the offensive linemen at 34 inches. Earned 100% Effort Awards for four of the team’s six pre-spring 6 a.m. workouts. Spent spring practice working at left guard.
High School: Attended Stone Bridge High School in Virginia. Helped lead Coach Mickey Thompson’s team to a 2007 state title. Ranked the No. 18 prospect in Virginia by The Roanoke Times. Listed as the No. 44 defensive tackle nationally by ESPN/Scouts, Inc.. Listed as the No. 59 defensive tackle prospect in the nation by Scout. Rated the No. 44 defensive tackle prospect in the nation and the No. 23 player in the state by Rivals. Ranked the No. 28 player in the state of Virginia by SuperPrep. A member of SuperPrep’s Mid-Atlantic Team. Named to PrepStar’s All-Atlantic Region Team as a defensive lineman. An honorable mention selection to the All-Met team by The Washington Post. A first-team All-Group AAA selection as an offensive lineman his junior season.
Personal: David Wang. Born 10/28/90 in Reston, VA. Son of Robert and Nancy Wang. His parents were both members of the Chinese Olympic team in the 1970s. Brother of former Hokie Ed Wang. Graduated with a degree in management (2011) and a second degree in marketing (2013). Pursuing another degree in curriculum and instruction.
2014: Started all 13 games. Logged 914 plays on offense. Was in on 51 offensive snaps, making the start at left guard against William & Mary. Had six knockdowns and didn’t miss a play on offense in the win at Ohio State. Was in on all 92 offensive snaps against East Carolina. Missed just one snap on offense against Georgia Tech. Had eight knockdowns while in on 64 snaps against Western Michigan. Was in on 80 plays on offense at North Carolina. Was in on all 72 snaps on offense at Pitt. Didn’t miss a play on offense against Miami. Had six knockdowns while in on all 78 plays on offense against Boston College. Didn’t miss a snap on offense, in on all 76 plays at Duke. Was in on all 70 plays on offense at Wake Forest. Missed just one snap on offense in the win over Virginia. Logged 38 snaps in the Military Bowl against Cincinnati. Injured his foot, but returned late in the game. Played in the Medal of Honor Bowl after the season.
2013: An honorable mention All-ACC selection by ACSMA and the coaches. Started all 13 games, playing 895 plays on offense and tallying 63 knockdowns. Started at center and was in on 55 snaps against Alabama in the season opener. Was in on 58 offensive snaps against Western Carolina. Logged all 77 snaps at center at East Carolina. Was in on 87 offensive snaps in the triple overtime win over Marshall. Was in at center on 49 offensive snaps at Georgia Tech. Saw action on 53 offensive snaps in the win over North Carolina. Was in on 53 snaps at center against Pittsburgh. Played all 87 snaps against Duke. Was in on 72 offensive plays at Boston College. Was named ACC Offensive Lineman of the Week after tallying 16 knockdowns while in on 81 snaps at Miami. Didn’t miss a snap on offense, in on all 70 plays against Maryland. Had 10 knockdowns while in on all 76 plays against Virginia. Played all 77 offensive snaps in the Sun Bowl. Was granted a sixth year of eligibility by the NCAA.
2012: Started 10 games at left guard, playing over 500 offensive snaps. In his first start, was in on all 72 offensive snaps and graded out at 81 percent to help the Hokies top Georgia Tech. Played 48 snaps and graded out at 85 percent against Austin. Saw limited action due to injury at Pittsburgh, but graded out at 88 percent, playing 30 snaps. Missed the Bowling Green and Cincinnati games due to injury. Returned to action at North Carolina but was only in on 43 offensive snaps. Graded out at 89 percent while in on all 79 snaps at Clemson. Was in on just 42 plays at Miami. Had three knockdowns while in on 49 snaps against Florida State. Was in on 71 snaps, grading out at 87 percent and adding four knockdowns at Boston College. Was limited to just 25 plays in the win over Virginia. Made the start against Rutgers in the Russell Athletic Bowl. An Iron Hokie in off-season testing. Saw work at guard and center during the spring. Saw limited practice time during the spring due to ankle troubles. Saw more work at center than guard. Was held out of the spring game.
2011: Played in two games. Totaled 37 snaps on offense and 12 on special teams for a total of 49. Played 29 snaps and graded 89 percent against Appalachian State. Played eight snaps on offense and two on special teams at ECU before suffering a broken foot. Was given the Coaches’ Award for his exceptional spring.
2010: Played in five games. Saw his first four snaps in the East Carolina game. Got 10 plays in the Central Michigan game. Picked up 19 snaps with a knockdown block against Wake Forest. Posted a knockdown while playing 25 snaps in the Duke game. Played a three-snap series in the Virginia game. Was a Super Iron Hokie during off-season workouts. Turned in a 410-pound bench press and a 440-pound front squat. Topped the offensive linemen with 380-pound clean, a 370-pound push jerk, a 35-inch vertical jump and a 4.29 timing in the NFL shuttle. Worked in the top spot at left guard in the absence of starter Greg Nosal. Earned the Dr. Richard Bullock Award after showing the most improvement among offensive players during spring workouts.
2009: Bench pressed 400 pounds after reporting in August. Began practice working at right guard. Suffered a shoulder injury in an early practice and underwent surgery. Sat out the season and was redshirted. Returned for off-season workouts and tied for the fourth-best back squat on the team at 530 pounds. Had the top vertical jump among the offensive linemen at 34 inches. Earned 100% Effort Awards for four of the team’s six pre-spring 6 a.m. workouts. Spent spring practice working at left guard.
High School: Attended Stone Bridge High School in Virginia. Helped lead Coach Mickey Thompson’s team to a 2007 state title. Ranked the No. 18 prospect in Virginia by The Roanoke Times. Listed as the No. 44 defensive tackle nationally by ESPN/Scouts, Inc.. Listed as the No. 59 defensive tackle prospect in the nation by Scout. Rated the No. 44 defensive tackle prospect in the nation and the No. 23 player in the state by Rivals. Ranked the No. 28 player in the state of Virginia by SuperPrep. A member of SuperPrep’s Mid-Atlantic Team. Named to PrepStar’s All-Atlantic Region Team as a defensive lineman. An honorable mention selection to the All-Met team by The Washington Post. A first-team All-Group AAA selection as an offensive lineman his junior season.
Personal: David Wang. Born 10/28/90 in Reston, VA. Son of Robert and Nancy Wang. His parents were both members of the Chinese Olympic team in the 1970s. Brother of former Hokie Ed Wang. Graduated with a degree in management (2011) and a second degree in marketing (2013). Pursuing another degree in curriculum and instruction.
46. John Miller - Syracuse
John Miller - 56 Syracuse 6-2 305
2014: Started ten games. Played in eleven games.
2013: Played in five games.
2012: Attended Los Angeles Harbor College. Named 2012 SCFA National Division Central Conference Second Team Offense
2011: Attended Los Angeles Harbor College. Earned 2011 Region V All-California First Team and All-Central West Conference First Team honors. LA Harbor College Head Coach: Brett Peabodu.
High School: Attended Redondo Union High School in California. Team captain as a senior .High School Coach: Gene Simon.
Personal: John Wesley Miller Jr.. Born in July 1993. Son of Susan Jimenez and John Miller Sr.. Two sisters. Majoring in information management and technology.
2014: Started ten games. Played in eleven games.
2013: Played in five games.
2012: Attended Los Angeles Harbor College. Named 2012 SCFA National Division Central Conference Second Team Offense
2011: Attended Los Angeles Harbor College. Earned 2011 Region V All-California First Team and All-Central West Conference First Team honors. LA Harbor College Head Coach: Brett Peabodu.
High School: Attended Redondo Union High School in California. Team captain as a senior .High School Coach: Gene Simon.
Personal: John Wesley Miller Jr.. Born in July 1993. Son of Susan Jimenez and John Miller Sr.. Two sisters. Majoring in information management and technology.
Tuesday, January 27, 2015
47. Austin Reiter - USF
Austin Reiter - 78 USF 6-3 286
2014: A Rimington Award candidate for the second time on his career. Named to the American Athletic Conference third team by Phil Steele. Started all 12 games at center and missed one snap. Helped lead Marlon Mack to just the fourth 1,000-yard rushing season in school history and a school and conference record 275 yards vs. Western Carolina (8/30). Named the recipient of the Offensive Lineman Award as well as the Tough Man Award at the post-season banquet. Earned a reputation as an “Iron Man” playing nearly every down the last three seasons. The Center who points out defensive formations and leads the offensive line, Austin has played in 46 career games and started 36 straight and earned his degree in communications in 2013.
2013: An iron man, Reiter started 12 games for the second straight season and was on the field for a total of 735 plays which was tied for the team lead. Named to the Rimington Trophy Watch List. Bulls most consistent offensive lineman. Helped pave the way for senior running back Marcus Shaw to run for 94 yards or more in each of the first four games, including three 100-yard outings and an average 131.25 yards per game. Helped Shaw run for 159 yards vs. FAU (9/14) and for 145 yards in the season-opener vs. McNeese State (8/31). Presented with the Offensive Line Award at the annual USF post-season banquet. Played in the Medal of Honor Bowl after the season.
2012: Started all 12 games at center.
2011: Appeared in 10 games along the offensive line and on special teams.
2010: Redshirted.
High School: Attended Lakewood Ranch High School in Florida. Played right tackle on offense and three technique defensive tackle at Lakewood Ranch. Selected USF over offers from Wake Forest, UCF, FIU, Middle Tennessee State, Miami, West Virginia and Cincinnati.
Personal: Majoring in communications.
2014: A Rimington Award candidate for the second time on his career. Named to the American Athletic Conference third team by Phil Steele. Started all 12 games at center and missed one snap. Helped lead Marlon Mack to just the fourth 1,000-yard rushing season in school history and a school and conference record 275 yards vs. Western Carolina (8/30). Named the recipient of the Offensive Lineman Award as well as the Tough Man Award at the post-season banquet. Earned a reputation as an “Iron Man” playing nearly every down the last three seasons. The Center who points out defensive formations and leads the offensive line, Austin has played in 46 career games and started 36 straight and earned his degree in communications in 2013.
2013: An iron man, Reiter started 12 games for the second straight season and was on the field for a total of 735 plays which was tied for the team lead. Named to the Rimington Trophy Watch List. Bulls most consistent offensive lineman. Helped pave the way for senior running back Marcus Shaw to run for 94 yards or more in each of the first four games, including three 100-yard outings and an average 131.25 yards per game. Helped Shaw run for 159 yards vs. FAU (9/14) and for 145 yards in the season-opener vs. McNeese State (8/31). Presented with the Offensive Line Award at the annual USF post-season banquet. Played in the Medal of Honor Bowl after the season.
2012: Started all 12 games at center.
2011: Appeared in 10 games along the offensive line and on special teams.
2010: Redshirted.
High School: Attended Lakewood Ranch High School in Florida. Played right tackle on offense and three technique defensive tackle at Lakewood Ranch. Selected USF over offers from Wake Forest, UCF, FIU, Middle Tennessee State, Miami, West Virginia and Cincinnati.
Personal: Majoring in communications.
48. Travis Switzer - Akron
Travis Switzer - 67 Akron 6-2 296
2014: Played in 12 games.
2013: Started all 12 games at center. Named Akron’s Harry “Doc” Smith Award junior recipient on offense as the most outstanding player. Has now started 24-straight games at center.
2012: Started at center in all 12 games. Member of a front line that supported an offense ranked first in the Mid-American Conference and 16th nationally in passing (312.8 ypg), and sixth in the league and 45th in the country in total offense (427.2 ypg).
2011: Logged time in seven games on the offensive line, including three starts. Started at left guard at Eastern Michigan (Oct. 1) and versus FIU (Oct. 8). Lined up as starting right guard against Ohio (Oct. 22).
High School: Attended Conestoga Valley HS in Pennsylvania. Three-year letterwinner. Named to the All-Section 11 team in both his junior and senior seasons, and earned the honor at both offensive guard and defensive end in 2010. Also earned all-league honors in 2009 and 2010. Named the team’s offensive, defensive, and outstanding lineman of the year in 2010. Recorded 52 tackles and eight sacks during his senior season. A PA Football News Honorable Mention All-State selection. Also was a two-year starter on the basketball team and competed in track and field (shot put).
Personal: Born Nov. 11, 1992. Son of Kent and Lori Switzer. Has one older brother, Paul.
2014: Played in 12 games.
2013: Started all 12 games at center. Named Akron’s Harry “Doc” Smith Award junior recipient on offense as the most outstanding player. Has now started 24-straight games at center.
2012: Started at center in all 12 games. Member of a front line that supported an offense ranked first in the Mid-American Conference and 16th nationally in passing (312.8 ypg), and sixth in the league and 45th in the country in total offense (427.2 ypg).
2011: Logged time in seven games on the offensive line, including three starts. Started at left guard at Eastern Michigan (Oct. 1) and versus FIU (Oct. 8). Lined up as starting right guard against Ohio (Oct. 22).
High School: Attended Conestoga Valley HS in Pennsylvania. Three-year letterwinner. Named to the All-Section 11 team in both his junior and senior seasons, and earned the honor at both offensive guard and defensive end in 2010. Also earned all-league honors in 2009 and 2010. Named the team’s offensive, defensive, and outstanding lineman of the year in 2010. Recorded 52 tackles and eight sacks during his senior season. A PA Football News Honorable Mention All-State selection. Also was a two-year starter on the basketball team and competed in track and field (shot put).
Personal: Born Nov. 11, 1992. Son of Kent and Lori Switzer. Has one older brother, Paul.
Monday, January 19, 2015
49. Kody Afusia - Hawaii
Kody Afusia - 52 Hawaii 6-2 310
2014: Played in 11 games. Honorable mention All-Mountain West. Had a hand injury early nthe year.
2013: Started all 12 games with 11 starts at left guard and one at right guard. Graded out with a team-high 85 percent for the season.
2012: Appeared in four games as a backup offensive lineman.
2011: Played in 10 games on the offensive line as a backup center and guard.
2010: Redshirted.
High School: A 2010 graduate of Ocean View High School in Huntington Beach, Calif. Earned three varsity letters in football. Played both sides of the ball as an offensive guard, center and defensive tackle. Named first team all-league as a junior and senior. Named league’s Defensive Player of the Year as a senior. A team co-captain. Selected to the all-CIF Southern Division first team on offense as a junior. Named MVP of the 2010 SoCal Polynesian Football Classic. Competed two seasons in wrestling, where he compiled a 42-11 record in the 285-pound division. Named team’s MVP. Also lettered two years in track and field.
Personal: Born in Fountain Valley, Calif. Majoring in political science. Cousin of fellow Rainbow Warrior Dave Lefotu. Sister, Nikole, played softball at Arizona State. Parents are Lee and Tricia Afusia of Midway City, Calif.
2014: Played in 11 games. Honorable mention All-Mountain West. Had a hand injury early nthe year.
2013: Started all 12 games with 11 starts at left guard and one at right guard. Graded out with a team-high 85 percent for the season.
2012: Appeared in four games as a backup offensive lineman.
2011: Played in 10 games on the offensive line as a backup center and guard.
2010: Redshirted.
High School: A 2010 graduate of Ocean View High School in Huntington Beach, Calif. Earned three varsity letters in football. Played both sides of the ball as an offensive guard, center and defensive tackle. Named first team all-league as a junior and senior. Named league’s Defensive Player of the Year as a senior. A team co-captain. Selected to the all-CIF Southern Division first team on offense as a junior. Named MVP of the 2010 SoCal Polynesian Football Classic. Competed two seasons in wrestling, where he compiled a 42-11 record in the 285-pound division. Named team’s MVP. Also lettered two years in track and field.
Personal: Born in Fountain Valley, Calif. Majoring in political science. Cousin of fellow Rainbow Warrior Dave Lefotu. Sister, Nikole, played softball at Arizona State. Parents are Lee and Tricia Afusia of Midway City, Calif.
Sunday, January 18, 2015
50. Tom Farniok - Iowa State
Tom Farniok - 74 Iowa State 6-4 300
2014: Team co-captain who started all 12 games at center. Ended career with 47 starts, the second-best total among active Big 12 players in 2014. Named honorable mention All-Big 12 (Coaches) for the third-straight season. Member of the Rimington Award and Wuerffel Trophy watch lists. Participated in the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl. Played in 49 career games, starting 47.
2013: Played in 11 games, starting nine games at center. All-Big 12 Second-Team (San Antonio Express-News) and All-Big 12 Honorable Mention (Coaches). Voted the team’s top offensive lineman (Arthur Floyd Scott Award). Had his 27-game streak of consecutive starts end after suffering a knee injury in the season-opener vs. UNI. Missed the Iowa game and started the final nine games at center. Has 35 career starts, the most of any returning Cyclone. Earned his degree in the summer (2014) and is taking graduate courses.
2012: Started all 13 games at center, running his consecutive games streak to 26 games. Named All-Big 12 Honorable Mention.
2011: Received Iowa State’s Dury Moss Award, given to the most outstanding newcomer. Started all 13 games at center for the Cyclones.
2010: Redshirted initial collegiate season.
High School: Chose Iowa State over offers from North Dakota, North Dakota State and South Dakota State. Three-year letterwinner for Washington High School in South Dakota. Team captain of Washington Warrior team that went 13-0 and claimed the Class 11AA state title, Washington’s first since 1976. Class 11AA First-Team All-State. Named offensive MVP of All-City Team. First-Team Greater Dakota All-Conference as senior and junior. Academic All-Conference and All-State in 2009. Named to Argus Leader “Elite 45”. 2008 Class 11AA first-team All-State. Honorable mention All-conference as a sophomore. Coached by Brian Hermanson. Also lettered in basketball and track.
Personal: Born Aug. 31, 1991. Son of Brad Farniok and Christine Jones. Father played football at St. Cloud State, uncle at South Dakota State. Brother, Derek, plays football at Oklahoma . Kinesiology and health major.
2014: Team co-captain who started all 12 games at center. Ended career with 47 starts, the second-best total among active Big 12 players in 2014. Named honorable mention All-Big 12 (Coaches) for the third-straight season. Member of the Rimington Award and Wuerffel Trophy watch lists. Participated in the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl. Played in 49 career games, starting 47.
2013: Played in 11 games, starting nine games at center. All-Big 12 Second-Team (San Antonio Express-News) and All-Big 12 Honorable Mention (Coaches). Voted the team’s top offensive lineman (Arthur Floyd Scott Award). Had his 27-game streak of consecutive starts end after suffering a knee injury in the season-opener vs. UNI. Missed the Iowa game and started the final nine games at center. Has 35 career starts, the most of any returning Cyclone. Earned his degree in the summer (2014) and is taking graduate courses.
2012: Started all 13 games at center, running his consecutive games streak to 26 games. Named All-Big 12 Honorable Mention.
2011: Received Iowa State’s Dury Moss Award, given to the most outstanding newcomer. Started all 13 games at center for the Cyclones.
2010: Redshirted initial collegiate season.
High School: Chose Iowa State over offers from North Dakota, North Dakota State and South Dakota State. Three-year letterwinner for Washington High School in South Dakota. Team captain of Washington Warrior team that went 13-0 and claimed the Class 11AA state title, Washington’s first since 1976. Class 11AA First-Team All-State. Named offensive MVP of All-City Team. First-Team Greater Dakota All-Conference as senior and junior. Academic All-Conference and All-State in 2009. Named to Argus Leader “Elite 45”. 2008 Class 11AA first-team All-State. Honorable mention All-conference as a sophomore. Coached by Brian Hermanson. Also lettered in basketball and track.
Personal: Born Aug. 31, 1991. Son of Brad Farniok and Christine Jones. Father played football at St. Cloud State, uncle at South Dakota State. Brother, Derek, plays football at Oklahoma . Kinesiology and health major.
Saturday, January 17, 2015
51. Joe Townsend - Vanderbilt
Joe Townsend - 57 Vanderbilt 6-4 312
2014: Townsend served as team's offensive captain as a third-year starting center. Earned 12 straight starts, running consecutive starts streak to team-high 32 games. Played all but three offensive snaps for the Commodores.. Posted 29 pancake blocks and 14 domination blocks from the center position.
2013: Townsend finished the year regarded as one of the SEC's top centers. Tough-nosed and fierce at the point-of-attack. Started all 13 games anchoring the middle of the Commodore offensive front. Vanderbilt has experienced team success with Townsend in the starting lineup, enjoying a 16-4 record over the last 20 games. Credited with 32 knockdown blocks and 21 blocks that led directly to Commodore touchdowns or first downs. Helped the Commodores to 337 total offensive yards in the win over Georgia, 540 total yards against UAB, and 442 yards vs. Austin Peay. Start in opener against Ole was the 10th of this career.
2012: Townsend has started nine games at center for the Commodores and is a key piece of the offensive line that has helped Vanderbilt to a season-ending seven-game win streak. During Townsend's starts, Commodore offense featured excellent balance. Named the SEC Offensive Lineman of the Week for his exceptional blocking performance in win over Auburn. Recorded 10 knockdown blocks in the victory over Auburn, which came in Townsend's third career start. Also helped pave the way for the Commodores to record 209 rushing yards against the Tigers, 169 of which came from Zac Stacy. Over last six games, Vanderbilt offense averaged 41.8 points per game.
2011: Townsend enjoyed playing time early in his true freshman campaign. Played in three early-season games at center, but did not participate in later encounters.
High School: Attended Hendersonville High School. Senior captain. Surpassed 100-tackle total and contributed seven QB sacks as senior, helping Commandos to 11-4 mark and AAA state finals. Played in postseason Tennessee East-West All-Star Game. As junior, selected as district's Defensive MVP and first team All-Area after making 61 tackles, 5 tackles for losses, 3 forced fumbles. As a sophomore starter, contributed 58 tackles and two forced fumbles. Also lettered in basketball and as thrower in track and field.
Personal: Joseph Edward Townsend II. Born March 15, 1993 in Hendersonville, Tenn. Has lived in the same house his entire life. Son of Darlene and Joey Townsend. Father is a contractor and mother works for Cigna. Has two siblings: an older sister, Ashley Stagle; and younger brother, Landon.
2014: Townsend served as team's offensive captain as a third-year starting center. Earned 12 straight starts, running consecutive starts streak to team-high 32 games. Played all but three offensive snaps for the Commodores.. Posted 29 pancake blocks and 14 domination blocks from the center position.
2013: Townsend finished the year regarded as one of the SEC's top centers. Tough-nosed and fierce at the point-of-attack. Started all 13 games anchoring the middle of the Commodore offensive front. Vanderbilt has experienced team success with Townsend in the starting lineup, enjoying a 16-4 record over the last 20 games. Credited with 32 knockdown blocks and 21 blocks that led directly to Commodore touchdowns or first downs. Helped the Commodores to 337 total offensive yards in the win over Georgia, 540 total yards against UAB, and 442 yards vs. Austin Peay. Start in opener against Ole was the 10th of this career.
2012: Townsend has started nine games at center for the Commodores and is a key piece of the offensive line that has helped Vanderbilt to a season-ending seven-game win streak. During Townsend's starts, Commodore offense featured excellent balance. Named the SEC Offensive Lineman of the Week for his exceptional blocking performance in win over Auburn. Recorded 10 knockdown blocks in the victory over Auburn, which came in Townsend's third career start. Also helped pave the way for the Commodores to record 209 rushing yards against the Tigers, 169 of which came from Zac Stacy. Over last six games, Vanderbilt offense averaged 41.8 points per game.
2011: Townsend enjoyed playing time early in his true freshman campaign. Played in three early-season games at center, but did not participate in later encounters.
High School: Attended Hendersonville High School. Senior captain. Surpassed 100-tackle total and contributed seven QB sacks as senior, helping Commandos to 11-4 mark and AAA state finals. Played in postseason Tennessee East-West All-Star Game. As junior, selected as district's Defensive MVP and first team All-Area after making 61 tackles, 5 tackles for losses, 3 forced fumbles. As a sophomore starter, contributed 58 tackles and two forced fumbles. Also lettered in basketball and as thrower in track and field.
Personal: Joseph Edward Townsend II. Born March 15, 1993 in Hendersonville, Tenn. Has lived in the same house his entire life. Son of Darlene and Joey Townsend. Father is a contractor and mother works for Cigna. Has two siblings: an older sister, Ashley Stagle; and younger brother, Landon.
52. Donald Senat - Florida International
Donald Senat - 66 Florida International 6-2 285
2014: Appeared in 12 games.
2013: Appeared and started all 12 games for the Panthers. Has started in 14-straight games, dating back to the 2013 season. Anchored a line that notched a then-season-high 341 yards of total offense at Southern Miss (10/5), including a FIU freshman-record 136 yards on the ground by Silas Spearman III. A week later, FIU’s offense accounted for a season-high 396 yards of offense, including 302 yards through the air. Named game captain three times during the season.
2012: Appeared in five games, starting twice at right guard. Started the final two games of the season at FAU (11/16) and vs. ULM (11/24). Also appeared vs. Akron (9/8), vs. Middle Tennessee (10/13) and at Troy (10/20).
2011: Did not appear in any games.
2010: Redshirted the 2010 season
High School: Attended Miami Northwestern High School in Florida. 2009 Miami Herald Class 6A-4A All-Dade Third-Team. 2008 Miami Herald Class 6A-4A All-Dade Honorable Mention. A versatile athlete has played every position on the Northwestern offensive line during his high school career. Was a senior season team captain. Helped lead team the 2009 FHSAA Class 6A Football Championship Regional Semifinals with a 12-2 final record. As a junior, was part of the Northwestern team that advanced to the 2008 FHSAA Class 6A Football Championship game and finished 13-2. Received his team’s Honor, Courage and Commitment Award in 2009. Played for Billy Rolle.
Personal: Parents - Donald and Erla Senat. Siblings - Kathleen, Rabson, Samanta and Stephanie. Born July 7, 1992.Received his Bachelor’s degree during summer 2013, and is currently seeking a Master’s in Sports Management. Played youth football with the North Miami Dolphins. A member of the National Honor’s Society and President of Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA).
2014: Appeared in 12 games.
2013: Appeared and started all 12 games for the Panthers. Has started in 14-straight games, dating back to the 2013 season. Anchored a line that notched a then-season-high 341 yards of total offense at Southern Miss (10/5), including a FIU freshman-record 136 yards on the ground by Silas Spearman III. A week later, FIU’s offense accounted for a season-high 396 yards of offense, including 302 yards through the air. Named game captain three times during the season.
2012: Appeared in five games, starting twice at right guard. Started the final two games of the season at FAU (11/16) and vs. ULM (11/24). Also appeared vs. Akron (9/8), vs. Middle Tennessee (10/13) and at Troy (10/20).
2011: Did not appear in any games.
2010: Redshirted the 2010 season
High School: Attended Miami Northwestern High School in Florida. 2009 Miami Herald Class 6A-4A All-Dade Third-Team. 2008 Miami Herald Class 6A-4A All-Dade Honorable Mention. A versatile athlete has played every position on the Northwestern offensive line during his high school career. Was a senior season team captain. Helped lead team the 2009 FHSAA Class 6A Football Championship Regional Semifinals with a 12-2 final record. As a junior, was part of the Northwestern team that advanced to the 2008 FHSAA Class 6A Football Championship game and finished 13-2. Received his team’s Honor, Courage and Commitment Award in 2009. Played for Billy Rolle.
Personal: Parents - Donald and Erla Senat. Siblings - Kathleen, Rabson, Samanta and Stephanie. Born July 7, 1992.Received his Bachelor’s degree during summer 2013, and is currently seeking a Master’s in Sports Management. Played youth football with the North Miami Dolphins. A member of the National Honor’s Society and President of Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA).
Friday, January 16, 2015
53 Campbell Allison - Eastern Michigan
Campbell Allison - 67 Eastern Michigan 6-6 333
2014: Played in 11 games.
2013: Appeared in eight games for the Green and White, making one start. Started at left guard in the Eagles’ season-opening victory over Howard (Aug. 31).
2012: Played in all 12 games, starting nine at right guard and one at left tackle.
2011: Appeared in 12 games on the offensive line, starting in seven, five at right tackle and two at left guard.
2010: Sat out the 2010 season as a redshirt freshman.
HIGH SCHOOL: Graduated from Ogdensburg Free Academy in New York where he played football for Head Coach Matt Tessmer. Member of the Academic Honor Roll and the Mock Trial Team. Was named a Class C state of New York first team All-State selection as a senior offensive lineman. Also played defensive line as a high schooler. Served as a team captain. Was an Academic All-Northern League selection. Recipient of the Don Petty Award as Offensive Lineman of the Year for displaying great character on and off the field. Played on an offensive line that did not allow a sack. Recorded 31 tackles, three sacks, had one forced fumble and one blocked field goal on the defensive side of the ball. Collected second team all-league his junior season. Started as a sophomore on the offensive line and an all-league academic team selection.
Personal: Full Name: Campbell Scott Allison. Son of Brad and Debra Allison. Psychology major. Has four brothers, Ben, Noah, Declan and Rhys and three sisters, Meagan, Carleigh and Tess.
2014: Played in 11 games.
2013: Appeared in eight games for the Green and White, making one start. Started at left guard in the Eagles’ season-opening victory over Howard (Aug. 31).
2012: Played in all 12 games, starting nine at right guard and one at left tackle.
2011: Appeared in 12 games on the offensive line, starting in seven, five at right tackle and two at left guard.
2010: Sat out the 2010 season as a redshirt freshman.
HIGH SCHOOL: Graduated from Ogdensburg Free Academy in New York where he played football for Head Coach Matt Tessmer. Member of the Academic Honor Roll and the Mock Trial Team. Was named a Class C state of New York first team All-State selection as a senior offensive lineman. Also played defensive line as a high schooler. Served as a team captain. Was an Academic All-Northern League selection. Recipient of the Don Petty Award as Offensive Lineman of the Year for displaying great character on and off the field. Played on an offensive line that did not allow a sack. Recorded 31 tackles, three sacks, had one forced fumble and one blocked field goal on the defensive side of the ball. Collected second team all-league his junior season. Started as a sophomore on the offensive line and an all-league academic team selection.
Personal: Full Name: Campbell Scott Allison. Son of Brad and Debra Allison. Psychology major. Has four brothers, Ben, Noah, Declan and Rhys and three sisters, Meagan, Carleigh and Tess.
54. Alex Mateas - Connecticut
Alex Mateas - 73 Connecticut 6-4 309
2014: Started all 12 games at center, one of three Huskies to start every game on the offensive line. Top Canadian Football League prospect.
2013: Started all 12 games at center, one of three Huskies, and the lone non-senior, to start every game on the offensive line.
2012: Started the first four games at center and the season finale vs. Cincinnati (Dec. 1). Played in a total of eight games. Was named to the 2012 BIG EAST All-Academic Team.
2011: Sat out at UConn due to NCAA transfer rules
2010: Redshirted at Penn State.
High School: Played football at Merivale High School in Ontario Canada. All-Conference performer led team to OFC title. Played left tackle for the Ottawa Sooners in the Canadian Junior Football League.
Personal: Alex Peter Traian Mates. Born March 28, 1991. An exploratory major.
2014: Started all 12 games at center, one of three Huskies to start every game on the offensive line. Top Canadian Football League prospect.
2013: Started all 12 games at center, one of three Huskies, and the lone non-senior, to start every game on the offensive line.
2012: Started the first four games at center and the season finale vs. Cincinnati (Dec. 1). Played in a total of eight games. Was named to the 2012 BIG EAST All-Academic Team.
2011: Sat out at UConn due to NCAA transfer rules
2010: Redshirted at Penn State.
High School: Played football at Merivale High School in Ontario Canada. All-Conference performer led team to OFC title. Played left tackle for the Ottawa Sooners in the Canadian Junior Football League.
Personal: Alex Peter Traian Mates. Born March 28, 1991. An exploratory major.
Thursday, January 15, 2015
55. Nate Leonard - UTSA
Nate Leonard - 55 UTSA 6-0 280
2014: Played in 12 games.
2013: Started all 12 contests. Had a team-leading 70 knockdown blocks, including a career-high 10 against Rice (Oct. 12), and also graded out at 82 percent. A key part of an offensive line that did not commit a holding penalty during the season. Helped the offense average 25.6 points, 417.8 total yards (175.4 rush/242.4 pass), 21.9 first downs and 32:24 possession time per contest.. Earned second-team Capital One Academic All-America accolades (first player in program history to be named an Academic All-American) and first-team Academic All-District VII honors for the second consecutive year. Also tabbed Conference USA’s Scholar-Athlete of the Year for football.
2012: Started all 12 games at center. Racked up 34 knockdown blocks and graded out at 82 percent for an offense that averaged 31.2 points, 390.2 total yards (159.2 rush/231.0 pass) and 31:45 of possession time per outing. Anchored an offensive line that surrendered just seven sacks, which was tied for the second-lowest total in the nation. Recorded a season-high 10 pancakes in the season-ending 38-31 victory against I-35 rival Texas State. Earned first-team Capital One Academic All-District VII accolades.
2011: Started all 10 contests at center. Offense averaged 26.6 points, 364.5 total yards (144.8 rush/219.7 pass) and 20 first downs per outing. Team rushed for a season-best 289 yards on 39 carries (7.4 avg.) against Minot State (Nov. 19). Redshirted in 2010.
High School: Attended McKinney High School in Texas. A 2009 honorable mention Class 4A all-state selection. Graded out at 85 percent with 50 pancake blocks and zero sacks allowed and also earned first-team All-District 9-4A accolades as a senior. Helped lead team to 2,564 passing yards and 1,290 yards on the ground in his final campaign. Garnered second-team all-district accolades as a junior. Helped the Lions to back-to-back playoff appearances in his final two campaigns. Coached by Bobby Reyes. Also earned two letters in track & field and powerlifting. An academic all-state honoree who graduated third in his senior class of 440. Named the National Football Foundation Dallas Chapter’s Outstanding Scholar-Athlete.
Personal: Born Aug. 10, 1991. Son of the late Toni Lou and Billy Leonard. Physical education major.
Wednesday, January 14, 2015
56. Brandon Vitabile - Northwestern
Brandon Vitabile - 66 Northwestern 6-3 300
2014: Played in 12 games. Redshirt senior. Named a consensus Honorable Mention All-Big Ten honoree for the second straight year. Two-year team captain. Rimington Trophy candidate. 2014 National Football Foundational National Scholar-Athlete award recipient (one of 17 national honorees from all levels of college football). Award comes with an $18,000 postgraduate scholarship and qualifies Vitabile as a finalist for the prestigious William V. Campbell Trophy. Also a two-time Capital One Academic All-District honoree. Started all 50 games of his Northwestern career. Helped offense gain season-high 547 yards in overtime victory at Notre Dame. Aided running back Justin Jackson in gaining more than 1,100 yards for the season, including a career-high 162 yards against Wisconsin. Academic All-Big Ten.2013: Redshirt junior. 2013 team co-captain. Capital One Academic All-District 5 honoree. Honorable mention All-Big Ten (coaches and media). Phil Steele midseason All-Big Ten First Team honoree. Extended his career games started streak to 38 in a row. Helped Wildcats average 172.4 yards per game on the ground. Unit helped QBs to complete 63.1 percent of passes this season, third-best mark in the Big Ten. Wildcats led the Big Ten and ranked third in the NCAA in red zone offense (95.7%). NU rushed for a season-high 332 yards on the ground against Western Michigan. Named to preseason watch lists for Rimington Award and Outland Trophy. Academic All-Big Ten and a Big Ten Distinguished Scholar honoree.
2012: Redshirt sophomore. Started every game at center for the second straight year. 26 career starts. Named to preseason watch list for Rimington Award, presented annually to nation's top center. Helped NU post fourth-best rushing average in the Big Ten (225.5) and rank No. 1 in fewest sacks allowed. Made a key fumble recovery on a run by Venric Mark in the third quarter of NU's 22-13 win over Boston College. Named NU's offensive big playmaker for the win over Minnesota and the team's Offensive Player of the Game against Illinois. Big Ten Distinguished Scholar (3.7 GPA or above) and Academic All-Big Ten.
2011: Redshirt freshman. Made first collegiate start at center against Boston College. Impressed coaches with his play during the spring, which led to his role as NU's starting center and the move of three-year starting center Ben Burkett to offensive guard. Academic All-Big Ten honoree.
2010: Did not see action.
High School: Attended Bishop Ahr High School in New Jersey. Rivals.com All-Atlantic East Region, SuperPrep All-Northeast Region and PrepStar All-East Region offensive lineman. Ranked the 10th-best player (second among offensive linemen) by Rivals.com in New Jersey's player ranking and sixth-best prospect in New Jersey by SuperPrep. Ranked sixth nationally among centers by Rivals.com and 17th nationally among centers by SuperPrep. 2009 all-area, All-Greater Middlesex Conference and all-state first-team selection. Star-Ledger All-American. Home News Tribuneall-area first team. New Jersey Football Coaches Association "2009 Super 100 All-State football team" selection. Played in Aloha Prep Bowl on Dec. 12, 2009. Helped lead the Trojans to a three-year mark of 29-9 and three straight postseason appearances. Earned a prestigious spot on the Greater Middlesex Conference All-Decade team (2000-09). MaxPreps New Jersey first-team all-stater. Team captain. Also lettered in basketball and baseball. NFF and College Hall of Fame scholarship recipient. Italian American Cultural Center academic scholarship recipient. News 12 and New Jersey Education Association Scholar-Athlete winner. National Honor Society, Hispanic Honor Society, Top 10 percent of senior class. Coached by Ron Hilliard.
Personal: Born Brandon Michael Vitabile. Son of Maureen McCann and Peter Vitabile. Majoring in economics.
2014: Played in 12 games. Redshirt senior. Named a consensus Honorable Mention All-Big Ten honoree for the second straight year. Two-year team captain. Rimington Trophy candidate. 2014 National Football Foundational National Scholar-Athlete award recipient (one of 17 national honorees from all levels of college football). Award comes with an $18,000 postgraduate scholarship and qualifies Vitabile as a finalist for the prestigious William V. Campbell Trophy. Also a two-time Capital One Academic All-District honoree. Started all 50 games of his Northwestern career. Helped offense gain season-high 547 yards in overtime victory at Notre Dame. Aided running back Justin Jackson in gaining more than 1,100 yards for the season, including a career-high 162 yards against Wisconsin. Academic All-Big Ten.2013: Redshirt junior. 2013 team co-captain. Capital One Academic All-District 5 honoree. Honorable mention All-Big Ten (coaches and media). Phil Steele midseason All-Big Ten First Team honoree. Extended his career games started streak to 38 in a row. Helped Wildcats average 172.4 yards per game on the ground. Unit helped QBs to complete 63.1 percent of passes this season, third-best mark in the Big Ten. Wildcats led the Big Ten and ranked third in the NCAA in red zone offense (95.7%). NU rushed for a season-high 332 yards on the ground against Western Michigan. Named to preseason watch lists for Rimington Award and Outland Trophy. Academic All-Big Ten and a Big Ten Distinguished Scholar honoree.
2012: Redshirt sophomore. Started every game at center for the second straight year. 26 career starts. Named to preseason watch list for Rimington Award, presented annually to nation's top center. Helped NU post fourth-best rushing average in the Big Ten (225.5) and rank No. 1 in fewest sacks allowed. Made a key fumble recovery on a run by Venric Mark in the third quarter of NU's 22-13 win over Boston College. Named NU's offensive big playmaker for the win over Minnesota and the team's Offensive Player of the Game against Illinois. Big Ten Distinguished Scholar (3.7 GPA or above) and Academic All-Big Ten.
2011: Redshirt freshman. Made first collegiate start at center against Boston College. Impressed coaches with his play during the spring, which led to his role as NU's starting center and the move of three-year starting center Ben Burkett to offensive guard. Academic All-Big Ten honoree.
2010: Did not see action.
High School: Attended Bishop Ahr High School in New Jersey. Rivals.com All-Atlantic East Region, SuperPrep All-Northeast Region and PrepStar All-East Region offensive lineman. Ranked the 10th-best player (second among offensive linemen) by Rivals.com in New Jersey's player ranking and sixth-best prospect in New Jersey by SuperPrep. Ranked sixth nationally among centers by Rivals.com and 17th nationally among centers by SuperPrep. 2009 all-area, All-Greater Middlesex Conference and all-state first-team selection. Star-Ledger All-American. Home News Tribuneall-area first team. New Jersey Football Coaches Association "2009 Super 100 All-State football team" selection. Played in Aloha Prep Bowl on Dec. 12, 2009. Helped lead the Trojans to a three-year mark of 29-9 and three straight postseason appearances. Earned a prestigious spot on the Greater Middlesex Conference All-Decade team (2000-09). MaxPreps New Jersey first-team all-stater. Team captain. Also lettered in basketball and baseball. NFF and College Hall of Fame scholarship recipient. Italian American Cultural Center academic scholarship recipient. News 12 and New Jersey Education Association Scholar-Athlete winner. National Honor Society, Hispanic Honor Society, Top 10 percent of senior class. Coached by Ron Hilliard.
Personal: Born Brandon Michael Vitabile. Son of Maureen McCann and Peter Vitabile. Majoring in economics.
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