The Falcons offensive and defensive lines are losing their most prominent players this off-season.
In the 29-20 loss to San Jose State in the Military Bowl, defensive lineman Chris Jones and offensive lineman Jordan Roussos were two of the 14 seniors who completed their NCAA eligibility.
Roussos started 32 straight games for the Falcons and was named to the All-MAC second team this season.
“This has been the best time being a part of this program with these people, coaches … and coming to the field everyday,” Roussos said. “I think that’s what really gets a senior after their last game is that they are not going to be a part of it.”
Chris Jones led BG’s defense to become No. 10 in the nation in average points against this season (16.8 points).
Even though SJSU had 380 total yards, BG’s defense held the Spartan running game to -15 rushing yards in the total game. The performance marked BG’s ninth time that the rush defense held its opponents under 100 yards and the only time they lost while achieving this feat.
Sophomore Charlie Walker forced San Jose State’s only turnover when he sacked SJSU’s quarterback David Fales and caused him to fumble. The fumble was nearly returned for another touchdown by senior Chris Jones, but was tackled 21 yards later on the 8-yard line to set up Samuel’s touchdown run.
Even though Jones has the potential to play in the NFL, he was very emotional after the game.
“I think, for my life, [coming to BG] was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made,” Jones said.
Jones led the nation in sacks for a couple weeks during the season and finished ninth in the nation with 12.5 sacks. After the season, he was named MAC Defensive Player of the Year, first team All-MAC and the Associated Press National Third Team All-American.
Together, Roussos and Jones started 76 games and 94 total games played. These players have been the key for Bowling Green’s rise back to the top of the Mid-American Conference after their 2-10 season in 2010.
The Falcons finished the season with an 8-5 record in 2012 — the best record since head coach Dave Clawson took over in 2009.
The team will have their annual spring game in April and will start the 2013 season with a home game against the Tulsa Golden Hurricane on Aug. 23.
