Cade Stover has been recognized as one of the best leaders in college football.
The Ohio State tight end was named one of 20 semifinalists for the Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year award, which honors players who have “demonstrated a record of leadership by exhibiting exceptional courage, integrity and sportsmanship both on and off the field.”
“This fantastic group of twenty young men are great student-athletes and perfect examples of what makes college football so great,” said former NFL tight end Jason Witten, the award’s namesake. “They have demonstrated exceptional character and leadership, often while facing large challenges. They are great representatives for their schools and the game of football, and I commend all nominees for getting to this point.”
Stover, who is in his second year as a captain for the Buckeyes, was selected as a semifinalist in recognition of his leadership and work ethic on the field, as well as his efforts to give back to the community. Stover’s biography in the award semifinalist news release made specific note of Stover preparing meals for the MidOhio Food Bank and visiting schools to read to children.
Cade Stover, Ohio State (Sr., TE) – On the cusp of becoming just the third tight end in school history to reach 1,000 receiving yards, Stover is a two-time team captain for the undefeated Buckeyes. Recognized as a leader who steps up to do the hard tasks no one else wants to take on, Stover has made no less than three position changes in his career, eventually settling in as a full-time tight end, where he was initially relied on only as a blocker before eventually becoming a receiving threat. Off the field, Stover prepares meals for the MidOhio Food Bank and regularly visits classrooms to read to children.
On the field, Stover is in the midst of one of the best seasons ever for an Ohio State tight end. With 23 receptions for 359 yards and three touchdowns, Stover is on pace to break the school record for the most single-season receiving yards by a tight end if he continues to produce at that level for the rest of the season.
Three finalists for this year’s Collegiate Man of the Year award will be named on Dec. 13, while the award winner will be announced on Feb. 15. Other finalists for the award include USC quarterback Caleb Williams, Notre Dame quarterback Sam Hartman, Florida State quarterback Jordan Travis, Michigan running back Blake Corum and Wisconsin wide receiver Chimere Dike, among others.
