by GRACE TAFOLLA
December 7, 2022
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Arkansas senior center Ricky Stromberg has received the Southeastern Conference’s distinguished Jacobs Blocking Trophy, given annually to the league’s most outstanding blocker as determined by the conference’s head coaches.
The 6-foot-4 lineman from Tulsa, Okla., is the first Razorback to win the award since Sebastian Tretola did in 2015. Stromberg is the fourth Hog to claim the Jacobs Blocking Trophy, joining Sebastian Tretola (2011), Jonathan Luigs (2007) and Shawn Andrews (2002-03).
Earlier this week, Stromberg picked up first team All-SEC praise from the league’s coaches, Associated Press and Pro Football Focus.
Starting in all 12 games and playing in 898 offensive snaps, Stromberg did not allow a sack or quarterback hit this season while helping the Razorbacks average 453.8 yards of total offense per game. A two-time SEC Offensive Lineman of the Week honoree this season, Stromberg navigated an Arkansas offense that ranks second in the SEC and ninth nationally in rushing yards per game (223.4).
Under Stromberg’s leadership on the offensive line, the Razorbacks have registered a 100-yard rusher in 10 of its last 13 games dating back to the 2021 season, led by AP First-Team All-SEC recipient Raheim Sanders’ seven 100-yard rushing efforts. Sanders ran for 1,426 yards and 10 scores this season. Keying the offensive line, the Hogs have totaled 400+ yards of total offense in nine games this season, including four games with 500+ yards. Stromberg paved the way for Hog rushers to explode for 10+ yards in 92 rushing attempts this season.
The award was originated in 1935 by Dr. William P. Jacobs, the founder and president (1935-45) of Presbyterian College. Each year, the winner is elected in a poll of league coaches.
The Hogs will conclude their season against Kansas in the Liberty Bowl at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 28, in Memphis, Tenn. The game will air on ESPN. For ticket information, call the Razorback Ticket Center at 479-575-5151 or click here.