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Our panel of voters has always taken into account toughness and being a true Ironman and few demonstrate those attributes more than University of Toledo Offensive lineman Jeff Myers.
The native of the historical football power Massillon Washington Tigers, Myers was lightly recruited out of high school garnering limited interest from Eastern Michigan.
While Myers will not garner the national attention or NFL draft hype that his fellow linemate Greg Mancz will receive during the 2014 season, the Rocket senior takes a back seat to very few offensive lineman in the MAC.
In 2014 Myers is looking to expand on a streak of 25 straight games started for the midnight blue and gold as part of a unit that should rank among the best in the conference in 2014. The Rockets offensive line was very impressive in 2013 ranking 14th in FBS in rushing yards, averaging over 240 rushing yards per game. The dominant offensive line helped David Fluellen—in limited action due to injury—surpass 1,100 yards rushing and freshman Kareem Hunt filled in admirably rushing for over 800 yards last season.
The 6-foot-3’ 290 pound guard was a Third Team All-Conference Selection in 2013 as part of a group that allowed just six sacks last season; the fewest in country. What makes Myers such a huge asset for the Rockets is his experience and reliability. While noted previously that he has started 25 straight games, he also participated in all 13 games as a freshman reserve lineman in 2011. Myers did not participate in the Rockets annual spring football scrimmage in April while recovering from surgery, but all signs point to him being ready to go for fall practice.
Myers also is on the national publication radar heading into the 2014 season as he was tabbed by Athlon Sports and Phil Steele as a preseason Second Team All-Conference selection.