Andrew Gardner: Hall of Fame Class of 2022
A two-time first-team All-Atlantic Coast Conference selection in 2007 and 2008), Andrew Gardner established himself as one of college football’s top offensive linemen during his four seasons on The Flats. He started every game of his collegiate career at offensive tackle – 48 straight games – until his senior campaign ended after nine games due to a torn labrum. His 48 consecutive starts was good for the longest active streak in the country at the time, and his 48 career starts remain the fourth-most in Georgia Tech history. Gardner helped pave the way for the ACC’s leading rusher in each of his final three seasons – Tashard Choice in 2006 and 2007 and Jonathan Dwyer in 2008. Three times named the ACC Offensive Lineman of the Week (including twice in nine games as a senior in 2008), Gardner was a major factor in Georgia Tech ranking third in the ACC or better in team rushing each of his four seasons, including a league-best 273.2 yards per game in 2008, which was the fourth-best figure nationally). Gardner helped lead Tech to a bowl game each of his four seasons, and to an ACC Coastal Division championship as a sophomore. He served as a team captain as a senior, earned honorable mention All-ACC recognition in 2006 in addition to his two first-team nods, and was named a freshman all-American in 2005 by the FWAA and The Sporting News). Gardner was selected in the sixth round of the 2009 NFL Draft and enjoyed a seven-year NFL career.