76 Dan Mozes

Hometown: Washington, PA

Career: 2003-2006

Record: 38-12, Bowl Record: 2-2 including a BCS win

After redshirting for the 2002 season, Dan Mozes became an immediate starter along the WVU offensive line. Mozes originally played at guard but would go on to star at center for the Mountaineers. Playing in Coach Rich Rodriguez’s spread rushing attack, Mozes excelled at downfield run blocking. He would clear the way for famous WVU rushers such as Quincy Wilson, K.J. Harris, Owen Schmitt, and Steve Slaton as well as dual threat passers such as Rasheed Marshall and Pat White. Mozes’ play helped the Mountaineers to 4 straight bowl games, culminating with a Sugar Bowl victory after the 2006 season. He would claim many personal accolades: 3 time All-American, 3 time All- Big East, twice named as a finalist for the Rimington Trophy (best offensive lineman in the nation), and winner of the Rimington Trophy in 2006. Mozes’ career is more than deserving of induction into the WVU Sports Hall of Fame, an honor that this blogger expects to come in the near future.

Memorable Game: One of the most impressive performances that Dan Mozes had in the Old Gold and Blue came in the 2006 edition of the Backyard Brawl. The Mountaineers had high hopes for the 2006 season, beginning the year with the #5 ranking. WVU’s dreams of a National Championship were dashed at Louisville, but the Mountaineers were still in the race for a Big East Championship and Orange Bowl berth coming into the game against the Panthers. The crowd at Heinz Field was treated to an amazing Mountaineer offensive performance. Mozes anchored the offensive line as WVU steam rolled the defense to the tune of 641 yards. The game would best be remembered for the twin performances of Pat White and Steve Slaton. White would throw for 204 yards and run for 220 yards. Slaton accumulated 215 yards rushing and 130 yards receiving. Needless to say, WVU smoked Pitt by a final of 45-27.

Competition: Dan Mozes was the run-away pick at #76. No one else comes close and quite frankly, outside of Pat Eger, none of the other players at #76 stand out in my mind.

Teaser: We all know who will be the selection at #75. He is the first player in WVU football history to have his jersey retired. He is also one of only two Mountaineers to be inducted into the Professional Football Hall of Fame. In short, he is THE Mountaineer Legend.