Thayer Munford is getting some midseason recognition.
Six games into his final season with the Buckeyes, Munford has earned some national attention as he's been named one of 12 semifinalists for this year's Lombardi Award, given annually to college football's top lineman.
Munford, now in his fifth season with the Buckeyes, chose to return to Ohio State instead of enter the NFL Draft last season because he wanted to fulfill his promise to his mother and get his college degree. While accomplishing that, Munford has been one of the most dominant and versatile linemen in the country.
Heading into this season, Munford was a three-year starter at tackle but moved to left guard and has helped lead one of the most dominant offenses in the country as the Buckeyes currently rank No. 1 overall total offense (563.2 yards/game), No. 3 scoring offense (48.5 points/game) and No. 3 rushing offense in yards per attempt (6.2) all while giving up just eight sacks – the second-best mark in the Big Ten.
Munford is the most veteran and experienced Buckeye on the roster, with 51 game appearances and 38 starts. He's also a captain and was honored with the team's Block "O" jersey this season, though he cannot wear it on the field as an ineligible receiver.
