It took a big man to hold Oklahoma defensive end Cedric Jones in check. That big man was Tim Kohn. Kohn, a 6’5″ 294 lb offensive lineman, held the All-American Jones to a mere three tackles on Saturday.

“He [Jones] is so fast and strong. He doesn’t have any weaknesses. But I really had the burden eased on me. On certain plays I knew I had help,” Kohn said.

Even though Kohn has received praise for his efforts against Jones, he still remains focused on winning.

“There were more tears than anything. Guys are just so tired of losing on this team. Last year that wouldn’t have happened. Some guys would have just shook it off and called it a moral victory. We’re not going to put up with this. If anything, this strengthened our resolve to win the next game,” Kohn said.

While Kohn’s performance on Saturday vaulted him into the spotlight, his past performances shine just as bright.

Besides helping to pave the way for the national attention that running back Troy Davis has received, Kohn was named offensive MVP in the Oklahoma matchup. In 1994 Kohn played in all 11 games, while starting nine games at left tackle. In 1993, Kohn started two games for the Cyclones.

Kohn, who hails from Wadsworth, Ill., was selected as all-North Suburban Conference at both offensive and defensive tackle and honorable mention all-Chicago area team.

Kohn also lettered in basketball and track in high school. Academic emphasis has also played a large part in Kohn’s past. Kohn was selected as an Illinois State Scholar and also to the National Honor Society, Boys State, all-North Suburban Conference Academic Football Team while being ranked ninth in a class of 380.

But Kohn’s biggest achievements, athletically and academically, are yet to come. The Oklahoma game was a shining symbol of improvement and potential, according to ISU head football coach Dan McCarney.

“He was excellent. He was outstanding. I think this was his best game since he’s been here. He’s a good athlete that’s getting more and more confident every week with this offense. That will pay great dividends in the future for him,” McCarney said. “He’s got a chance to become one of the greatest that have ever played here before his career is over.”