**As Strong as Granite ☘️**
Billy Schrauth has been named to the Lombardi Award Watch List, a prestigious honor recognizing the top offensive lineman in college football. For Schrauth, a standout guard for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, this nomination is a testament to his relentless work ethic, physical dominance, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Like granite—unyielding, unbreakable, and built to last—Schrauth has solidified himself as a cornerstone of Notre Dame’s offensive line, embodying the toughness and resilience that define the program.
### **The Making of a Lineman**
Schrauth’s journey to becoming one of the nation’s most formidable linemen began in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, where he developed a reputation as a mauler in the trenches. A four-star recruit out of St. Mary’s Springs High School, he was a highly sought-after prospect, drawing interest from powerhouse programs across the country. Yet, from the moment he committed to Notre Dame, it was clear that Schrauth was destined to be more than just another talented recruit—he was a future leader.
Standing at 6’5” and weighing over 300 pounds, Schrauth possesses the ideal frame for an interior lineman. But what truly sets him apart is his combination of raw power, agility, and football IQ. His ability to drive defenders off the ball in the run game and anchor against elite pass rushers has made him indispensable to the Irish offense.
### **A Breakout Season**
Schrauth’s rise to prominence didn’t happen overnight. After redshirting his freshman year, he steadily climbed the depth chart, earning valuable snaps in 2022 before seizing a starting role in 2023. Last season, he emerged as one of the most consistent performers on Notre Dame’s offensive line, helping pave the way for a dominant rushing attack while providing quarterback Sam Hartman with the protection needed to thrive.
His performances against top-tier competition—such as Ohio State, Clemson, and USC—proved that Schrauth wasn’t just a solid player; he was a difference-maker. Whether pulling on power runs, executing combo blocks, or stonewalling defensive tackles in pass protection, he played with a tenacity that earned the respect of teammates and opponents alike.
### **The Lombardi Award: A Symbol of Excellence**
The Lombardi Award, named in honor of legendary coach Vince Lombardi, is awarded annually to the best lineman or linebacker in college football. To be named to the watch list is a recognition of Schrauth’s elite status among his peers. Past winners include icons like Orlando Pace, Joe Thomas, and Quenton Nelson—players who not only dominated in college but went on to have storied NFL careers.
For Schrauth, this nomination is validation of the hours spent in the weight room, the film study, and the relentless pursuit of improvement. It’s also a reflection of Notre Dame’s tradition of producing elite offensive linemen. From Zack Martin to Ronnie Stanley to Nelson, the Irish have a long history of developing NFL-caliber talent in the trenches, and Schrauth appears to be the next in that lineage.
### **The Granite Mentality**
What makes Schrauth special isn’t just his physical gifts—it’s his mindset. Teammates and coaches describe him as a quiet leader who lets his play do the talking. He approaches every practice, every rep, with the same intensity as a game. His toughness is contagious, setting the tone for an offensive line that prides itself on wearing down opponents.
In many ways, Schrauth embodies the ethos of Notre Dame football: hard-nosed, disciplined, and unshakable. Like granite, he doesn’t bend under pressure. Whether facing a top-10 opponent or battling through minor injuries, he maintains his composure and delivers. That mental fortitude is what separates good players from great ones.
### **Looking Ahead**
As the 2024 season approaches, Schrauth will be a key piece in Notre Dame’s quest for a College Football Playoff berth. With a new quarterback under center, the offensive line’s ability to control the line of scrimmage will be crucial. Schrauth’s leadership and dominance will be central to that effort.
If he continues on this trajectory, the Lombardi Award watch list could be just the beginning. All-American honors, an NFL future, and perhaps even a place among Notre Dame’s all-time greats could be in store. But for now, Schrauth remains focused on the task at hand—blocking, grinding, and winning.
### **Conclusion**
Billy Schrauth’s inclusion on the Lombardi Award watch list is a well-deserved honor for a player who has worked tirelessly to reach this point. Strong as granite, both in body and spirit, he represents the best of Notre Dame football—tough, dependable, and built to last. As the season unfolds, one thing is certain: Schrauth will continue to be the bedrock of the Irish offensive line, paving the way for success one punishing block at a time. ☘️
