Gophers center Schmitz to play in Senior Bowl

University of Minnesota center John Michael Schmitz has accepted an invitation to play in the 2023 Senior Bowl, the program announced Tuesday.

It comes a day after Schmitz was named one of three finalists for the Rimington Trophy.

The Senior Bowl is one of the top postseason showcase games for athletes. The university says Schmitz is the 47th Gopher all-time to be invited to the game and his participation will mark the fourth straight year at least one Gopher will play in the game.

The First Team All-Big Ten center is among the most heralded offensive linemen in the country this year and anchored the Gophers line, which ranks in the top 25 nationally in sacks allowed and tackles for loss allowed.

The Senior Bowl is scheduled for Feb. 4.