Zack Gieg: A pillar of strength for SEMO Football in 2024 Season

As Southeast Missouri State University’s football team gears up for a new season, graduate student offensive lineman Zack Gieg is expected to play a crucial role in the Redhawks’ offense. With a blend of raw talent and seasoned experience, Gieg is positioned to lead his team forward after last season’s challenges.

A New Mindset

Reflecting on the past year, Gieg acknowledges the difficulties the team faced, but notes that they’re returning with a chip on their shoulders.

“Last year we kind of came out like we just won [the OVC championship] in ‘22 and people just thought we were gonna go out there and win again without the work ethic,” Gieg said. “ I think being 4-7 gives us an advantage because everyone is going to be like ‘Oh, they didn’t do too well last year.’”

The Redhawks have reportedly retooled and refocused, bringing a new energy to the field.

“I feel like we're a completely new team. Our secondary is a lot better. Our O-Line is a lot better. We have three running backs instead of one. We’ve got great wide receivers. There's a different vibe of practice,” Gieg said.

Earning Recognition, Staying Grounded

Gieg’s accolades speak volumes about his talent and impact. He has been ranked as the No. 4 returning offensive lineman in the Football Championship Subdivision and the top returning interior lineman in the Big South-Ohio Valley Conference by HERO Sports. Sports Illustrated also rated him as the No. 6 returning FCS interior offensive lineman.

Gieg, who has previously earned three First-Team All-OVC selections, was named to the 2024 Phil Steele Football Championship Subdivision Preseason All-America Team.

In 2022, he won the prestigious Rimington Award, given to the nation’s top center in the FCS, making him only the third SEMO player to earn the honor.

Despite these honors, Gieg emphasizes that personal achievements are secondary to the team’s success.

“It [the recognition] doesn’t really matter to me. I have been ranked for three years now and it just doesn’t matter unless we win,” Gieg said. “Last year I got First-Team All-League. It didn’t matter. We were 4-7. The year before I got awards, but we won, so it was awesome.”

This season, Gieg has focused on refining his technique and mental approach.

“I feel like I’ve prepared more mentally. Technique-wise, I’m just focused on being better with my feet and my hands instead of just trying to kill people every play,” he explained.

Embracing Leadership

Learning from last year, Gieg has adopted a more hands-on approach to leadership, ensuring his younger teammates are prepared for the challenges ahead.

“Honestly, last year I didn’t do a good enough job of leading. I kind of thought our group had it figured out and we were going to be good and in all honesty, we weren’t. This year, I’ve taken a different approach,” Gieg said.

Gieg has taken several younger players under his wing, including left guard Carter Guillaume, tight end Andrew Civey, and running back Cole Ruble.

“I spend a lot of time with those guys, just trying to share with them that they are going to have a big impact on this team,” Gieg said. “It may be my last go-around, but it’s just their beginning.”

Head Coach Tom Matukewicz described Gieg as the “wheel” of their team, always at the center of the action. Offensive Line Coach Lucas Orchard echoes this statement, highlighting Gieg’s role in fostering team unity.

“On Saturday, he had the team over for a barbecue and he plays a major role in getting people together. Not only the o-line, but the whole team,” Orchard said.

A Legacy in the Making

With his formidable skill set and relentless work ethic, Gieg has the potential to not only leave a lasting legacy at SEMO but also to make his mark in the professional ranks.

“I want to be known as the nastiest lineman SEMO’s ever had,” he said. “I want my film to be shown to guys when they’re saying you need to play harder. I want my effort to be shown to the future of SEMO.”

Gieg also has aspirations to play professionally, though he remains grounded in the present.

“It all depends on how we do this year,” he said.

Looking Forward

Head Coach Tom Matukewicz has issued a challenge to the seniors.

“I’ve been coaching for 31 years. Every great season I’ve ever had, the seniors left playing their best ball,” he said. “So we really challenged those seniors to walk out of here playing their best ball and leave this place better than they found it.

As the season begins, Gieg aims to do just that.

“I’ve grown a lot as a man, which has allowed me to be a better player on the field,” he said. “My mindset is better, and it’s going to help us out.”

With the season underway, all eyes are on Gieg as he aims to cement his legacy, at SEMO and beyond.