GOLD AND BLACK ILLUSTRATED VOLUME 27, ISSUE 1 34
BY STACY CLARDIE
SClardie@GoldandBlack.com
F
ive months in the making, the
unruly beard practically covers
the neck.
Three years in the making, the wavy
light brown hair hangs to the middle
of the back.
Four years, the full-throated yell bel-
lows outside of the intended huddle,
heard on all ends of Ross-Ade Stadium.
Twenty-three years, the steely blue
eyes burn into any challenger and
spark at the prospect of being chal-
lenged.
Year after year, the body displays
unique art, the outline of Texas pop-
ping its colors near the belly, a remind-
er to "love thy neighbor" emblazoned
on the left side, armor emanating from the right pec over
the shoulder and down the arm. And, then buried a bit on
the side amongst the chaos, a tiny hammer.
Maybe more than any of Jordan Roos' rugged offensive
lineman manifestations, it's that hammer that reveals all.
It easily could signify Purdue. But it doesn't.
It's about power. It's beastly strength. It's responsibili-
ty that comes with expectation. It's justice, integrity and
honor. It's not being scared of work, of sacrifice, of forging
paths.
It's Roos' alter ego in an icon.
It's Thor, the Marvel superhero (and Norse god) with
flowing locks, furry face, bulging muscles and owner of
the intense glare — and general grit and intensity — that
Roos takes to the field.
"I kind of wear my heart on my sleeve and my passion
with everything," Roos said. "I think people can see that
with the way I've played."
It's practically defined his career.
Roos is fierce, overly aggressive at times, blowing up op-
ponents with caveman-type strength — talking 505-pound
Roos' passion, toughness fuel Purdue
Dropping The
Hammer
Tom Campbell
Jordan Roos' long, straggly hair and out-of-control beard
present an intimidating football persona. It works on
Saturdays. The rest of the time? "He's actually a pretty big
softie," good friend and teammate Jason King said.
