Greg Eslinger

Bio

Greg Eslinger exhibited exceptional intelligence and agility as he became one of the most decorated offensive linemen in college football history. A two-time First Team All-American, including unanimous selection in 2005, Eslinger claimed the Outland Trophy as the most outstanding interior lineman in the country and the Rimington Trophy as the nation's best center during his senior season. He was also named the Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year in 2005, the first Gopher to ever claim the honor. Minnesota went 32-18 during his college career. He led the Gophers to four consecutive bowl games for the first time in school history, notching a 3-1 record in postseason play. Eslinger was named a First Team All-Big Ten selection in three consecutive seasons, and he started all 50 games of his college career. Eslinger anchored an offensive unit that twice led the Big Ten in rushing with 256.8 yards per game in 2004 and 273.1 ypg in 2005. He opened lanes for four consecutive 1,000-yard Gopher running backs including Laurence Maroney, who led the Big Ten with 1,464 yards. During his tenure, the Gophers set multiple single-season offensive records, including rushing attempts (683), rushing yards (3,759), rushing yards per game (289.2), rushing touchdowns (46), total season yards (6,430), total yards per game (494.8), total season points (503), average points per game (38.7), season touchdowns (66) and first downs (326). A two-time Second Team CSC Academic All-American and a three-time Academic All-Big Ten pick, Eslinger earned an NFF National Scholar-Athlete Award as a 2005 NFF William V. Campbell Trophy Finalist, and he received the 2006 Big Ten Medal of Honor for his combined efforts on the field and in the classroom.

Career Highlights

• 2005 All-Conference
• 2005 NFF Scholar Athlete
• 2005 Outland Trophy Winner
• 2005 Unanimous All-America
• 2004 All-Conference
• 2004 First Team All-America
• 2003 All-Conference