Notre Dame Offensive Guard Chris Stewart Raises the Bar

Typically offensive linemen don't receive a lot of press, but in the case of Notre Dame offensive guard Chris Stewart, it is impossible to overlook his achievements on and especially off the gridiron. Stewart, a fifth-year senior out of Klein, Texas, came to the Irish as a second-team USA Today All-American, and a member of the U.S. Army All-American Bowl prep All-Star game.

Since coming to Notre Dame, Stewart has been a constant presence on offense after red shirting his freshman year (2006). He started spring practice the following year at nose tackle but was moved to offensive line prior to the start of the 2007 season, and logged 46:44 minutes as a backup lineman with 25 special team appearances.

Stewart made his first career start in 2008 against San Diego State and finished the season with 242:53 minutes as a starter with 41 special team appearances. He started all 12 games in 2009 and logged 370:06 minutes of playing time.

Stewart has started more games (31) than any other Irish player on offense, and is riding a 23-game starting streak into this weekend's matchup against Utah. As the veteran leader of the line, Stewart was praised by the coaches for his work both in the weight room and on the practice field. He gained 22 pounds while reducing his body fat by four percent coming into the 2010 season.

While this seems like a nice success story, Stewart's on field contributions absolutely pale in comparison to what he has accomplished off the field. He finished his undergraduate studies in three-and-a-half years with a 3.5 grade point average, and a 3.8 GPA in his final semester.

Stewart is the only player in Notre Dame's history to be enrolled in law school while still being an active player. He is one of 16 finalists for the William V. Campbell Trophy, which recognizes the top student athlete in the nation. It is often referred to as the Academic Heisman Trophy.

There is still a third side to Chris Stewart. Besides his football accomplishments and academic accolades, Stewart is also actively involved in a number of community outreach programs. He traveled to Haiti during spring break this year to help with relief efforts following Haiti's devastating earthquake, raises funds for Saint Baldrick's foundation, volunteers at the South Bend Youth Center and visits local children's hospitals.

Chris Stewart is why Notre Dame is special; he is the ultimate student-athlete. While his 23-game started streak is impressive, his streak of being a well-rounded community minded ambassador of the University is even more impressive. I have often said that Notre Dame students are among the brightest in the country, as they balance studies with extra curricular activities and reach out into the community.

Chris Stewart is the perfect example of what should be the rule, and not the exception.