Sun Devil Legends Series: No. 93 Jim Jeffcoat

The Backstory: Our summer series continues with another number that Arizona State defensive ends have modeled for years in No. 93. Plenty of different Sun Devils started for a season or two while donning 93, but no player enjoyed the longevity as a starter wearing 93 quite like Jim Jeffcoat.

While 93 has been a players' favorite for years, only Jeffcoat garnered national recognition for his play. The ASU Hall of Famer gained a reputation as one of the Sun Devils' premier playmakers, and that's why he's our selection at No. 93.

The Player: No. 93 Jim Jeffcoat (1980-1982)

During his three years as a starter on the Sun Devil defensive line, Jim Jeffcoat went from a solid contributor to one of the best defensive ends in the country.

Jeffcoat demonstrated solid improvement throughout his career and his senior season provides plenty of proof.

In 1982, Jeffcoat recorded an impressive 111 tackles and earned Honorable Mention All-America honors from a number of reputable news organizations including the Associated Press.

Jeffcoat was the heart and soul of a Sun Devil defense that played a significant role in shutting down the Oklahoma Sooners in the 1983 Fiesta Bowl. For his efforts, Jeffcoat was named the defensive MVP in the Sun Devils' 32-21 win.

However, 1982 was not the only season that Jeffcoat displayed his dominance. The end came into his own in 1981 and earned Honorable Mention All-Pac-10 honors while leading the team in sacks (10) and tackles for loss (8.0).

Jeffcoat's individual statistics speak volumes, but it's the success of the teams that he played on that completes his legacy. With Jeffcoat starting, the Sun Devils amassed a 26-8 overall record between 1980 and 1982.

The Sun Devil end was not only the greatest player to wear No. 93 at Arizona State, but also one of the best defensive players to ever come through the program.

In the NFL: After an impressive career at Arizona State, Jeffcoat became a first-round NFL draft pick. The Dallas Cowboys took Jeffcoat with the 23rd overall pick in the 1983 draft and the selection paid dividends.

Jeffcoat became a mainstay on the Cowboys' defensive line and helped the team to two Super Bowl titles. His many NFL highlights include a 1985 game in which he sacked Joe Theisman five times.

In 1995, Jeffcoat joined the Buffalo Bills as a pass rush specialist, but his 15-year NFL career came to an end in 1997. His resume includes 102.5 career sacks, two interceptions, and two touchdowns.

Following his days as a player, Jeffcoat became a coach and he will return to Tempe this October as the Colorado Buffaloes' defensive line coach.

Honorable Mentions

Trace Armstrong: Armstrong couldn't match the success of Jeffcoat, but he still managed to wreak havoc in opponents' backfields. In 1987, Armstrong led the Sun Devils with seven sacks. However, Armstrong ended his career as a Florida Gator before eventually being drafted by the Chicago Bears.

Arthur Paul: Paul wore No. 93 for three seasons including 1991 when he was the starting nose guard on a 6-5 Larry Marmie team.

Malchi Crawford: Crawford donned No. 93 for all four of his seasons in Tempe. He started at defensive tackle alongside Mike Langridge in 1995.

Who Wears 93 Now?

While the 90s have always been reserved for defensive players, current Sun Devil kickers appear to be forming a trend.

Sophomore kicker Sean Conaway rocks No. 93 now, but even with the dire kicking situation, it's hard to imagine Conaway getting a shot this season.

Other Famous 93s

Doug Gilmour: The NHL Hall of Famer liked to score. A lot. His 450 goals and 1,414 points are a testament to that.

Dwight Freeney: Now with the San Diego Chargers, Freeney made his name with the Indianapolis Colts by recording 107.5 sacks and leading the team to Super Bowl XLI.

Richard Seymour: Previously one of leaders of Bill Belichick's defense in New England, Seymour is a three-time Super Bowl champion and seven time Pro Bowler.