Welcome to the 2021 FCS Jersey Countdown.
Leading up to Week 0 games on Aug. 28, HERO Sports is going to name the best returning FCS player by jersey number, 99-0. Due to rosters being updated at different times for teams across the country and to keep things consistent, jersey numbers are based on the 2020 fall-2021 spring season.
The 99-0 countdown central page can be found here.
Note: Jersey numbers are based on 2020 fall-2021 spring rosters.
52: Colby Thomas, OL (Sr.) — Sam Houston
Thomas has been a consistent starter on SHSU’s offensive line since 2018. What hasn’t been consistent is what position he’s played.
The versatility of Thomas has been valuable for the Bearkats as he can play at a high level at multiple spots. He started eight games in 2018, mostly at left tackle but also getting time at right tackle and guard.
A First Team All-Southland Conference selection in 2019, he made starts at center and guard.
The theme continued in the spring as SHSU won its first FCS national title. Thomas, who is 6-foot-2 and 305 pounds, played center, guard, and tackle throughout the season. He played all three spots in one game against Northwestern State.
SHSU had the eighth-highest scoring offense in the spring with 37.5 points per game. The Bearkats rushed for 158.8 yards a game while the o-line allowed 1.7 sacks per game, ranking 30th in the FCS.
Thomas was again named to the All-Conference First Team along with All-American Second Team honors from the AP and Stats Perform.
