Eastern Kentucky’s bruising offensive line took a big step forward this season behind the dominant play of Josiah Ezirim. On Tuesday, the Colonels standout rightfully earned national recognition.
Ezirim was named to The Associated Press FCS All-American third team – adding to his haul after also making the FCS Football Central squad on Monday.
The hulking 6-foot-3, 340-pound road grader started all 11 games for EKU’s prolific attack. The Ohio native played a pivotal role paving rushing lanes as the Colonels led the United Athletic Conference at 437 yards per contest.
Behind Ezirim’s blocks, Eastern Kentucky accounted for 37 offensive touchdowns and nearly 5,000 total yards – gaudy numbers for the FCS ranks.
“Josiah brings that nasty attitude up front that you love to see in your linemen,” Colonels head coach Walt Wells said earlier this year. “He takes pride in mashing defenders till the whistle on every down.”
For his efforts spearheading that smashmouth approach, Ezirim now adds an AP All-American badge to his decorated resume. The recognition caps a breakout senior campaign that has the guard’s NFL stock rising rapidly.
Ezirim will get one more chance to showcase his skills for pro scouts at February’s East-West Shrine Bowl. Before chasing his professional dreams though, the big fella has cemented his EKU legacy as one of the program’s most decorated linemen.
