Tuparama

On the nineteenth day of pre-season, the Buckeyes gave to me…

An eighteen year NFL veteran and 1999 Pro Bowler.

And, just so you don’t think I’m somehow fixated on kickers (it could be worse…), my memories of him come from a better, more productive time.

As a kid, the first Buckeye quarterback that remember really paying attention to was Tupa. I just thought it was cool that when he was back to punt, you could never really rule out the fake.

Although his leg is more than likely what allowed him to be a part of the Buckeye Grove, I recall an important day in 1987- the last game of Sir Earle of Bruce. Luckily, the amazing archives at OHD saved the moment for us and for our “friends” up north:

Tom, thanks for the great legacy, for your important part in honoring Coach Bruce, and for getting us through this nineteenth day.