CEDAR CITY, Utah - Targhee Lambson has become a cornerstone of the Southern Utah Thunderbirds' offense. His standout performance this season has captivated fans and foes alike. While surpassing the 1,000-yard rushing milestone with five games remaining, Lambson's 1,098 yards on the ground place him with the third most rushing yards in FCS football. He is also in a position to break one of the program's most prestigious records: the single-season rushing mark of 1,828 yards, set by Zed Robinson in 1991. With his current pace, Lambson is within reach of overtaking that record, making this one of the most exciting seasons for Thunderbird football in recent memory.
Coach DeLane Fitzgerald Said
"Targhee has been a pleasure to have in our football program the last two seasons. His physical preparation has always been good; in his final season, his mental skill set has exceeded his physical. As good a player as he has been on the field, he has been an even better person off the field. Targhee is one of the most coachable young men I've ever had the pleasure of coaching."
Lambson's contributions go far beyond just yardage. With 12 rushing touchdowns this season, Lambson is already tied for the 7th most in a single season at SUU. If he keeps scoring at this rate, he could push even higher up the ranks, solidifying his place among the Thunderbirds' all-time greats.
The last time Southern Utah had a 1,000-yard rusher was in 2016, when Malik Brown hit 1,027 yards during a 6-5 season. While Brown's performance was impressive, Lambson has already passed that mark with several games left to play. What he's doing this season has the potential to redefine excellence for the Thunderbirds, not just in terms of his stats but for the team as a whole. His success is also a testament to the offensive line, which has opened up lanes for him to thrive. The Thunderbirds returned four out of five starters on the offensive line from a season ago. Lambson credits the offensive line in nearly every interview, noting that he wouldn't have the season he is having without them.
Most Net Rushing Yards - Single Season
1,828- Zed Robinson, 1991
1,602- Matt Cannon, 2000
1,553- Matt Cannon, 1998
1,405- Brook Madsen, 1996
1,310- Matt Cannon, 1999
1,246- Joe Dupaix, 1996
1,214- Brook Madsen, 1997
1,202- Daniel Harris, 1993
1,190- Kelvin Minefee, 1988
1,130- Curry Ancar, 1982
1,098- Targhee Lambson, 2024
What makes Lambson's season even more remarkable is his consistency and versatility. He's not just racking up yards in easy games; he's been a reliable force in every matchup. Whether it's shedding tackles, exploiting defensive gaps, or breaking off long runs, Lambson is proving to be a nightmare for defenses across the board. His ability to read defenses and make quick adjustments sets him apart as one of the premier backs in the country.
With five games left, the future holds countless possibilities for Lambson. If he continues on this path and stays healthy, he could break Robinson's decades-old rushing record, an achievement that would cement his legacy in Southern Utah football. But more than just personal glory, Lambson's season represents a resurgence for Southern Utah football. His dominant performances have reinvigorated the offense and given fans a reason to rally behind their team as they aim for a strong finish.
In today's football world, where passing offenses often take center stage, a running back like Lambson, who can control the game's tempo, is a rare gem. His ability to move the chains and force defenses to respect the run has opened up the Thunderbirds' playbook, creating a more balanced and dangerous offense.
In just a few short months, Lambson has gone from a standout player to a potential legend. As he inches closer to breaking Robinson's record, fans and teammates alike are witnessing something truly special. Should he succeed, Lambson won't just be remembered for having an incredible 2024 season—he'll be remembered as one of the greatest ever to wear a Thunderbird uniform. With each carry, touchdown, and game, he's writing his own chapter in the history of Southern Utah football, and the story is far from over.
Next Up
The Thunderbirds will travel to West Georgia to take on the Wolves in a UAC conference showdown this week. The game will take place on October 26 and kick off at noon MT. You can watch it live on ESPN+.
The Coaches Show
Don't forget to catch the Thunderbird Coaches Show this Monday at 6:00 p.m. MT. You can watch it on YouTube or listen to it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
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