The Joe Moore Award, now in its 12th year, remains the only major college football honor dedicated to the collective performance of an entire offensive unit rather than a standout individual. Founded by Notre Dame All-American Aaron Taylor, the award evaluates technique, toughness, and unity through a committee of former linemen, coaches, and NFL talent evaluators who analyze game tape throughout the season.

For Johnsonville, the collaboration mirrors the brand's long-standing connection to the gameday tailgate experience. Ryan Pociask, President of Johnsonville’s U.S. Business, described the partnership as a natural fit, noting that the camaraderie required to move a defensive front aligns with the brand's focus on gathering people together. The recipient of this year’s honor will be announced during a surprise on-campus reveal in December.

Past winners include programs such as Alabama, Michigan, and Iowa, the latter of which secured the award for a second time last year. To track this season's frontrunners, the organization will launch a weekly series, "The Joe Moore Award Show," on its YouTube channel starting August 26.