University of Louisville’s center Bryan Hudson has been named the recipient of the coveted Jacobs Blocking Trophy for 2023, the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) announced on Monday. The Jacobs Blocking Trophy is awarded annually to the most outstanding blocker in the ACC, as voted by the league’s head coaches and defensive coordinators. This prestigious trophy is given in memory of William P. Jacobs, former president of Presbyterian College.
Hudson, a redshirt senior from Georgetown, Kentucky, stands at an imposing 6-foot-5 and weighs in at 305 pounds. He has played in 58 games over his collegiate career, having previously played at Virginia Tech before transferring to Louisville. Hudson has been an integral part of the Louisville Cardinals’ offensive line, helping pave the way for the team’s success.
Under Hudson’s leadership, Louisville boasts one of three 1,000-yard rushers in the ACC, Jawhar Jordan. Additionally, the team has accumulated an impressive 5,250 yards in total offense. The Louisville offense ranks 26th nationally in total yards per game, averaging 438.6 yards, and 33rd in rushing offense, averaging 183.5 yards per game on the ground. Hudson’s contribution to the team cannot be understated, as he has recorded over 780 snaps this season, tallying 50 knockdowns and not allowing a single sack.
Louisville head coach Jeff Brohm expressed his admiration for Hudson’s accomplishments, stating, “Bryan is very deserving of this honor. To be voted the most outstanding lineman by your peers is an incredible tribute to Bryan’s dedication and ability as a football player. He has obviously been one of our best and most consistent players this season.” Brohm also praised Hudson’s resilience, noting his battle through injuries and his commitment to being there for his teammates.
This is the second time a Louisville player has received the Jacobs Blocking Trophy since the team joined the ACC in 2014. The first recipient was Mekhi Becton in 2019. The list of previous winners includes notable names such as Jim Dombrowski of the University of Virginia, who won the trophy twice in 1984 and 1985, and Cameron Erving of Florida State University, who received the honor in both 2013 and 2014.
As Bryan Hudson receives this prestigious award, he solidifies his place among the ACC’s top blockers and adds another accolade to his impressive collegiate career.
