“It was such an honor for me to play in the Big 33 Classic, given the tradition of the game and legacy of great players. I am excited to return now as the Honorary Chairman, to be involved again in something truly special.” — Ben.



The Big 33 Scholarship Foundation Inc announced today that Ben was selected as the 2012 Honorary Chairman of the PNC Big 33 Football Classic played in June.

Ben, who is a Big 33 alumnus, played for Ohio in the 2000 Big 33 Football Classic.

In 2003, Ben led the Miami Red Hawks to an unbeaten record in the MAC, a No. 10 ranking in the Associated Press poll, and a 49-28 victory over Louisville in the 2003 GMAC Bowl.

His number was retired by the Red Hawks in 2007 – becoming only the third athlete in Miami football history to have his jersey number retired. It was the first time in 34 years Miami retired a football jersey number.

The 2012 PNC Big 33 Football Classic will be televised on the NFL Network on June 16, 2012 at 7:00 PM.



Pro Bowl Update:

Ben is still at No. 2 in fan voting with 745,835 votes counted. Tom Brady is still the AFC’s top overall vote getter with 1,149,721 votes. Detroit’s Tim Tebow has jumped to the No. 3 spot with 420,539 votes. The Bills’ Ryan Fitzpatrick is at No. 4 with 377,796 votes. Ben remains in the Top 10 in overall votes, but has slipped down to 10th place.

There are only four days left to make your votes count for your favorite players! The Pro Bowl teams will be announced during Monday Night Football.

Cast your votes here!