For the past three seasons, one man has anchored the left side of UW's offensive line. Whether it be opening a gaping hole for running backs Anthony Davis, Brian Calhoun and P.J. Hill, or protecting the blind side of quarterback John Stocco, senior left tackle Joe Thomas has served as a force of reliability for the offense.
Thomas is one of 19 seniors who will be honored this Saturday at Camp Randall Stadium as the Badgers take on Buffalo in their final regular season contest of the year. The Brookfield, Wis., native will conclude his regular season career and will go down as one of the finest offensive linemen in UW history, a history stacked with great players at the position.
""It's a great feeling,"" Thomas said of this label. ""It's obviously somebody's opinion, but it feels like all the work has kind of paid off.""
His senior season, along with the team's success, may not have existed had it not been for Thomas' decision not to forego his fourth season as a Badger for the NFL Draft. The severe right knee injury he suffered in last season's 24-10 win over Auburn in the Capital One Bowl may have factored into the decision, but, regardless, Thomas maintains it was the right decision.
""I already know that it was the right decision for me,"" Thomas said. ""I've been so happy with the way everything has gone this year so far. This has been the best year that I've had, playing-wise and just how much fun I've had being out there and with my teammates.""
Thomas and the other seniors have taken an increased leadership role both on and off the field due to the many off-season coaching changes following the entrance of Bret Bielema as head coach. Junior center Marcus Coleman noted that despite an inexperienced line that contains three first-year starters, Thomas has been nothing but a positive leader by example for his fellow offensive lineman.
""Joe has kept us motivated on the field as well as in off-season workouts,"" Coleman said. ""He's a field general out there and he's a great friend.""
Thomas' rare blend of size, athleticism, versatility, strength and intelligence has experts and pro scouts drooling. Offensive Coordinator Paul Chryst and the other coaches saw this potential when Thomas was still in high school, and know just how special of a player and person Thomas is.
""I was certainly impressed with his physical, athletic skills,"" Chryst said. ""He is a big guy who can move, he plays hoops and he is a good football player. When you get to know him, you can see there's a whole lot more depth to him.
""What you're seeing now is rare,"" he said.
Thomas admitted he reflects at times on some of the highlights in his career, including the Badgers' 17-10 upset victory over No. 3 Ohio State in 2003, as well as last season's 23-20 triumph over Michigan. Senior Day at Camp Randall may be added to these career moments very soon.
""It's hard to believe [it's almost over],"" Thomas said. ""It really hasn't hit me yet, and I don't think it will until you run down that tunnel, and they call your name.
""It's kind of just another day out there, until I see my parents. I think it will be pretty emotional for all of us at that point,"" he said.
Besides being one of the best players in college football, Thomas is also making his mark in the class room, receiving several academic awards including All-Big Ten academic honors two years in a row. Coaches and teammates alike know Thomas' hard-working and level-headed ways will equal success in the future.
""Joe's a guy who will be involved in many things in the community and probably have some sort of business on the side (of football),"" Coleman said. ""I know he'll be a leader wherever he goes.""
