CEDAR CITY, Utah – Southern Utah University running back Targhee Lambson has been named one of 35 finalists for the 2024 Walter Payton Award, an honor recognizing the most outstanding offensive player in Division I FCS football.
Head Coach DeLane Fitzgerald Said
"Well deserved. Targhee's skill is extremely high, but his will was higher than his skill this fall! I didn't see a player this fall whose focus or effort was better than Targhee's."
Lambson has had a historic season, breaking multiple school records and leading the nation in key statistical categories. He wrapped up the regular season with the most rushing yards in the country with 1,922, and his 23 rushing touchdowns rank second nationally. His dominance on the field has earned him United Athletic Conference Offensive Player of the Week honors twice this season.
In addition to his national achievements, Lambson has rewritten the Southern Utah record books. He set new program records for carries (320), rushing yards (1,922), and total points scored in a single season (142) while tying the school record for rushing touchdowns in a single season (23).
The Walter Payton Award, now in its 38th season, is often referred to as the "Heisman of the FCS" and recognizes offensive excellence in college football. Past winners include NFL stars such as Steve McNair, Tony Romo, Brian Westbrook, Jimmy Garoppolo, Cooper Kupp, and Trey Lance. The winner is chosen by a national panel of over 150 sports information directors, media members, broadcasters, and other experts based on regular-season performances.
The winner of the 2024 Walter Payton Award will be announced on January 4, 2025, at the Stats Perform FCS National Awards Banquet in Frisco, Texas.
Lambson joins a distinguished list of nominees representing all 13 FCS conferences. The recognition further solidifies his place as one of the top players in the nation and a key contributor to Southern Utah's success this season.
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