Former Ohio State offensive lineman Dave Monnot died after a lengthy battle with cancer, Buckeye Sports Bulletin learned on Monday evening. He was 50 years old.
A native of Canton, Ohio, and a Central Catholic High School product, Monnot was a three-year starter at right guard for Ohio State from 1991-93.
In BSB’s Jan. 21, 1989 print publication, then-staff writer Mark Rea wrote an article detailing Monnot’s commitment to Ohio State. After earning the All-Ohio Offensive Lineman of the Year award and leading his team to the 1988 Division IV state championship, the Buckeyes offered Monnot a scholarship. He selected John Cooper’s program immediately after visiting the campus and touring the football facilities.
“I had a great visit. I toured the campus and saw the Woody Hates practice facility and the stadium and thought about the tradition, and I knew what my decision was going to be,” Monnot said. “I knew it was the opportunity to follow up on a dream. You know, when Coach Cooper talked to me and told me if you’re from Ohio, you should want to play for Ohio State. It’s true.”
Monnot redshirted in 1989 and was a backup defensive tackle behind Rich Frimel during the 1990 season, playing in all 11 games and collecting 18 tackles, two tackles for loss and a sack. In 1991, Monnot moved to right guard shortly after fall camp opened and started in nine games for Ohio State that season. He retained his role as a starting offensive lineman in 1992 and started in 20 of his 21 remaining games in a Buckeye uniform.
Overall, Monnot contributed in 42 contests throughout his career, winning a Big Ten Championship and a Holiday Bowl over Bringham Young in 1993 — his final year with the program.
Monnot’s son, Dave Monnot III, was an offensive lineman at Purdue for three seasons before entering the transfer portal in January.
