WESTERVILLE — In the 20th season of honoring former Otterbein football player Josh Worthington, senior Zane Duning has been elected to sport the prestigious No. 5 jersey for the upcoming 2025 campaign. This honor is chosen by the coaching staff as a tribute to Worthington and all he meant to the Cardinal football program. 

SIGNIFICANCE OF #5

Worthington, a Grove City native and former Otterbein quarterback who wore No. 5, passed away on Christmas morning in 2004 after his vehicle was struck by a drunk driver. He is remembered for the hard work, dedication and commitment he displayed as a promising young player, and it is an honor and a privilege to be selected by the coaches to wear his number. Those selected to wear No. 5 must be a respected player and demonstrate great character. 

"I thought we had a number of candidates for the honor of wearing No. 5 this year, but as a coaching staff we unanimously decided upon Zane," said head coach Dave Marquis. "Zane is not necessarily a vocal leader, but is someone who leads by example. He has done a tremendous job, both on the field and in the classroom. He put in a lot of great work over the winter and spring and never missed a workout or practice throughout the spring semester."

"It's such an honor to wear jersey No. 5," said Duning. "I'm hopeful I can represent my team on and off the field in good, positive ways."



Duning, a Lebanon, Ohio native, played in all 10 games for the Cardinals last season, finishing as one of the team's top receivers. 2024 became somewhat of a breakout season for Duning, after being limited to nine games in his first two seasons at Otterbein. 

"Zane is a prime example of how we want our young men to represent our program and believe he is very deserving of this honor," added Marquis.

Otterbein commences the Marquis era and the 2025 season this Saturday in Memorial Stadium. The Cardinals welcome Ohio Wesleyan University for a noon kickoff as a tune-up before hitting the road to Marietta to begin OAC competition on Sep. 13.