With the collegiate season winding down, the Lott Impact Trophy’s 15^th annual season is coming to an end. There are many athletes who have shined throughout their journey in 2018, resulting in eight defensive leaders who have emanated the true meaning of IMPACT and finished as award semi-finalists. Although this award is given to the best defensive player in the country, it stands for much more, as the player must make a difference on the field, in the classroom and in the community. The Lott IMPACT Trophy honors both great athletes and individuals.

The award was named after Hall Of Fame safety Ronnie Lott, and was founded as the only award that would recognize greatness in both performance and character. Lott embodied each meaning of IMPACT — Integrity, Maturity, Performance, Academics, Community and Tenacity — throughout his career at the collegiate and professional levels, setting the stage for many to follow in his footsteps. The trophy represents more than the talent or production of an athlete, but the IMPACT that the student athlete has had within their community.

The semi-finalists were chosen based on a number of accolades, and includes two defensive lineman and six linebackers. Forty-two Lott nominated athletes represented the defensive finest in college football, but now only eight remain. These eight NCAA prospects have made headlines on the gridiron all year but have offered much more in the community. The finalists include:

Christian Wilkins, Defensive Tackle — Clemson

Zach Allen, Defensive End — Boston College

Josh Allen, Outside Linebacker — Kentucky

Ben Burr-Kirven, Linebacker — Washington

Joe Dineen Jr., Linebacker — Kansas

Chase Hansen, Linebacker — Utah

Ben Humphreys, Linebacker — Duke

Jordan Kunaszyk, Linebacker — Cal

The winner will be announced on December 9^th following the final week of the collegiate season and the week prior to Bowl season. After starting the year with some unknown names on the nominated list, these few have encapsulated themselves as the defensive elite at the collegiate level. Let’s take a look at who they are:

Christian Wilkins, DT — Clemson

Wilkins has been a name many have been watching for the last few years as he was a returning nominee from the 2017 season. While he fell short then, he has a chance to right the wrong and make the push for the 2018 award. It is no secret that Clemson boasts one of the most dominant defensive lines in college football, and Wilkins remains a prominent factor in their defensive production. The 6’4” 300 pound lineman has accrued 40 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery en route to an undefeated record and a national rank of 2. Thought to be a first round prospect in 2017, he surprised many with his decision to return to school to play his senior season as a Tiger. Wilkins is a leader both in the locker room and in the community. Earning the CoSIDA Academic All Region honor in 2017, he is the first scholarship Tiger to graduate in 2.5 years. Spending his offseason as a substitute school teacher, Wilkins emulates the meaning of IMPACT. Wilkins was a second team mid-season All-American for Sports Illustrated and is a 2018 finalist for the Campbell Award for academic excellence. He remains one of the most dominant defensive linemen in college football, and stands as an elite prospect entering the 2019 NFL Draft.

Zach Allen, DL — Boston College

Displaying the true meaning of student athlete, Allen has been a core leader on and off the field throughout his collegiate career. He is a foundational member of BC’s defensive front and a core reason for their success on that side of the ball. Recording 56 tackles, 15.5 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, 10 quarterback hurries, a blocked kick, a forced fumble, 2 fumble recoveries, an interception and 7 passes defensed, Allen is the rock in their defensive scheme. He isn’t just a one year wonder either. One of the most disruptive players in the country, Allen was one of only two defensive linemen to record 100 tackles last season. Leading the Eagles with 15.5 tackles for a loss and accruing 5 sacks, the Hawks’ defensive end was named second team All-ACC in 2017. He may not make a true impact in community efforts, but he shines the brightest underneath the academic tree. Zach Allen received Academic All-ACC honors, Academic All District and became a National Honor Society member this past season. As a four-year honor roll student, Allen is the definition of student athlete, as he puts in the effort required to excel in the classroom.

Josh Allen, Edge — Kentucky

Kentucky has surprised many with their production throughout the year, and their outside linebacker is a primary reason for their success. Josh Allen is one of the most dominating and physically gifted athletes at the college level, with first round grades flying around his name as we enter draft season. He is a force along the defensive line and acts as a true leader on the field, in the locker room, and within the community. Having been voted the Lott Impact Trophy’s player of the week a leading three times, Allen has provided a season worthy of the Impact Award. In week 12, Kentucky’s defensive star finished the outing with 2.5 sacks, bringing his collegiate total to 27.5 becoming the Wildcats’ all-time sack leader. Throughout 2018, the linebacker has produced 80 tackles, 17.5 for loss, with 13 sacks, 5 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries, and 4 passes defensed. Beyond the field, he has taken the meaning of IMPACT and brought it into the community. Allen has donated his time to the Special Olympics, the children’s cancer research program, and most recently offered his time to read for young students in the classroom. He is a Nagurski Trophy finalist, Butkus Award finalist, Bednarik Award finalist, and a Walter Camp Football Foundation semi-finalist. Allen is a class act, taking each aspect of his life in high regard. He is impactful in every aspect of the community and the field that he’s been a part of.

Ben Burr-Kirven, LB — Washington

Washington always seems to feature top defensive talents, and Burr-Kirven is no exception. The 2018 campaign marks Burr-Kirven’s second stint on the Lott watch list and his first within the semi-finalists. He is one of the fast risers with respect to his draft stock, and his play and leadership on the field is the reason why. The Washington linebacker has been all over the field, recording 145 tackles (second in the FBS), 4 tackles for loss, 1 sack, 1 interception, 5 passes defensed, 4 forced fumbles, and 2 fumble recoveries. The Huskies defensive leader has been named the Lott Impact Trophy Player of the Week twice and his name has been in contention each week for the honor. A playmaker on the field, he is no slouch in the classroom, boasting a 3.58 GPA in Comparative Literature, Cinema and Media Studies. He has been on the Dean’s List 6 times in college and has been a two-time academic all district and All Pac-12. He is a playmaker on the field and true leader in each aspect of his life.

Joe Dineen Jr., LB — Kansas

Kansas may not be as high powered as these other teams, but Joe Dineen is certainly as talented as anyone else on this list. Although the Jayhawks are currently enduring a subpar season, their star linebacker has been a bright light on an otherwise disappointing campaign. Currently leading the FBS in solo tackles with 98, he has accrued 128 total with 9.5 for loss, 3 sacks, 1 interception, 1 pass defensed and 2 fumble recoveries. Dineen is a tackling machine that has the ability to fly around the field and make big plays throughout a contest. In 2017, he was named Sports Illustrated All-American after recording an impressive 25 tackles for loss, and he received the Lott Impact Trophy Player of the Week honor on September 8^th. Along with his defensive production, Dineen has been a stalwart in the classroom and community, donating his time to a number of non-profit organizations. He has spent numerous hours working to gain awareness for childhood cancer, and has been found to spend countless hours volunteering with the organizations Just Food, Salvation Army, and the Special Olympics, while also performing in the classroom. The electric linebacker has been a consistent member of the Big-12 Honor Roll, and has been awarded Academic All Big-12 Honors, Big-12 Commissioner’s Honor Roll, Academic All Big-12 Rookie Team, and the Athletic Director’s Honor Roll. Having already graduated in May of 2018 with his Bachelor’s Degree in management and leadership with an entrepreneurship concentration, he has been able to donate more time to the community and perfect his craft on the field.

Chase Hansen, LB — Utah

Chase Hansen is the Utes’ leader on the field and in the locker room, as he leads the team in tackles for the second time of his career. Although he was on the Lott Watch list in 2017, injuries took their toll and put him out of the running for the award. Now a senior, he has continued to excel on and off the field, taking the Lott Impact Trophy Player of the Week designation in week 11 of the collegiate season. Hansen has been unstoppable this year, leading Utah to a 8-3 record and to first place in the Pac-12 South division. Hansen has developed into a high profile prospect in 2018, accumulating 88 tackles with 19 for loss, 5 sacks, 2 interceptions, 1 fumble recovery, 3 passes defensed, and a defensive touchdown. Utah’s linebacker is the heart and soul of the defense, and he has made it a priority to achieve greatness in each aspect of his life. Hansen graduated in the summer of 2018 with a Bachelor’s Degree in consumer and community studies with an emphasis in financial planning and a minor in sociology. He has made academics a priority throughout his college tenure and remains an active member in community outreach.

Ben Humphreys, LB — Duke

Duke has surprised many with their production on the football field, and Ben Humphreys is large reason why. The team captain is a leader both on and off the field who truly believes that academics and community outreach will enrich his life in more ways than one. Duke’s defensive leader possesses undeniable character and a will to succeed. He has totaled 67 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 1 sack, 1 forced fumble and 2 fumble recoveries. Although his numbers don’t jump off the page, his team responsibilities and service do. Humphreys received Academic All-ACC honors during his sophomore campaign and has been a regular in the classroom throughout college. The linebacker is currently a semi-finalist for the Campbell Trophy and won the Glenn Davis award in high school for his outstanding performance and service. He was presented with the “Ronald McDonald House Heart of Gold Award,” recognizing his leadership, service, generosity, and overall character. Humphreys has also developed a strong bond with a 5-year old boy that has Pelizaeus-Merzbacher Disease, which affects the brain and spinal cord, restricting movement, motor skills and learning. The Duke athlete visits him frequently and has been a staple in the young child’s life. The Blue Devils athlete is a class act and a monumental difference maker within the community.

Jordan Kunaszyk, LB — Cal

Kunaszyk is a foundational piece in California’s defensive system, leading the team in tackles throughout the past two seasons. After finishing 2017 with 74 tackles, his level of production has skyrocketed to 110 tackles with 10 for loss, 4 sacks, 4 forced fumbles, 1 fumble recovery and 1 pass defensed. Having received an overall GPA of 3.09, the Golden Bears linebacker received an Academic All-American Honorable Mention for his work in sociology, but his work in the classroom isn’t his only accolade. Cal’s defensive leader has been an active and consistent member of his immediate community and the community as a whole. He traveled to Mexico with Athletes in Action to help rebuild a poor and downgraded community. While in Mexico he dug holes, built fences, and developed walls to build a church and living conditions for the locals. Along with his work in Mexico he is an active member of the AIA (American Institute of Architects). Jordan Kunaszyk is a difference maker on the field and in the community.

This has been a tight race all year and many have climbed the ladder to become differences in their communities and on their college campuses. All eight of these defensive athletes have positioned themselves for greatness in each step of their life, and they all have changed the lives of the people around them. They have each created lasting environments where change and IMPACT is embodied.

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Here we are rumbling down the last leg of the college season, and we’re staring straight in the eyes of conference championships as well as bowl season. Within the next few weeks we will of had all the votes tallied up for our year’s winner of the Lott IMPACT award, but we do not want to overlook those standout performances of the last few weeks.

This week’s award winner is in a rare class. Josh Allen, linebacker from Kentucky, has been selected for a third time this season. This feat has only been accomplished one time previously, by Manti Te’o back in 2012.

Allen put forth another game-changing effort, helping his Wildcats defeat Middle Tennessee State by a score of 34-23. He chipped in a career high 15 tackles, that include 2 tackles for loss and two more sacks. With this performance Allen’s season totals look something like this: 75 tackles, 17.5 TFL, 13 sacks, 5 forced fumbles, and 2 fumble recoveries. With those 13 sacks this year added to his career numbers, it puts him in sole possession of the sack record for Kentucky with 27.5. Allen surely stands to be a serious suitor for the Lott IMPACT player of the year, as well as other decorated honors such as the Butkus Award Semifinalist, All-SEC team, and AP All-American.  When evaluating his skill set, he is blessed with loose hips, an ability to bend the edge, the strong hands needed to slip off blocks, and the speed to win on rushing situations. Kentucky’s defensive leader can win in a variety of ways to put pressure on the quarterback. He is a monster who continually makes big plays, terrorizing QBs at the release point leading to his 5 forced fumbles. He is not only a one trick pony, as he shows a true acumen for dropping off from his usual outside linebacker position and carrying tight ends or running backs into the flat. He also has a finisher’s mentality when he gets to the quarterback. He has demonstrated the true meaning of IMPACT, utilizing leadership on the field and in the locker room.

Josh Allen wasn’t the only one up for consideration for his game-changing effort, and we will briefly look at some of his key competitors for the weekly honor.

Zach Allen, DE: Boston College

For the second time this season, Allen put up a standout performance that put him square into consideration for player of the week. All he did this week was put up 6 total tackles, a sack, a QB hurry, and a blocked kick, en route to a heartbreaking loss to Florida State 22-21. He is a big, strong, and rugged DE prospect who can win plays with a variety of ways. He uses strong hand usage, great length, an innate sense of when to get his hands up into throwing lanes, plus  an array of pass rush moves including a deadly push-pull and a spin move. He plays with elite effort, and will never give up on making a play.

Ben Burr-Kirven, LB: Washington

Another week, another respectable box score to put Burr-Kirven into consideration for player of the week. He accrued 11 tackles, one for a loss, in a convincing win over Oregon State by a score of 42-23. Burr-Kirven is a tackling machine who plays like his hair is on fire. He uses great speed and acceleration combined with quality play recognition to close on ball carriers. Not only can the linebacker quickly diagnose plays, but he shows up with authority and with tremendous tackling mechanics. The Washington linebacker can be tasked with dropping off into zone coverage and be able to carry running backs and tight ends downfield due to his well-rounded skill set. With a nose for the ball, he always seems to be in the area when a big play is happening. Although he lacks a prototypical build, he makes up for it with instincts and intelligence. Burr-Kirven is a high-end prospect at the collegiate level who is Washington’s team leader.

Drue Tranquill, LB: Notre Dame

Tranquill has had a tremendous bounceback year, and this week he put up a strong effort that has landed him on our radar. He had a great all-around game with 7 total tackles, 2 sacks, and 2.5 TFL in a winning effort for his Golden Domers against Syracuse, 36-3. Tranquill has worked his way back from a devastating knee injury that was sustained during a celebration. He has made his presence felt both on the field and off, being a true leader in every sense of the word during his rehab back to full strength. With decent height and bulk, Tranquill has an intriguing skill set in the mold of a hybrid linebacker/safety, but it his cerebralness out on the field that enhances his abilities. He has great instincts and terrific closing quickness to flash downfield and fill running lanes. Add on soft hands, and he will come up with a timely turnover when his team needs. Tranquill is a sure tackler who loves to lay the wood and punish ball carriers coming his way.

As always, we would like to congratulate Kentucky’s Josh Allen for winning this week’s award, as well as the other candidates that were in consideration. Best of luck to those playing in the final week’s worth of collegiate contests.

The post Blitzalytics – Lott IMPACT Trophy: Week 12 Recap appeared first on Lott IMPACT® Trophy.

With only two weeks remaining from conference championship games, we are quickly approaching the end of the regular season portion of the college schedule. That puts into perspective which of our Lott IMPACT candidates have a shot at taking home the end-of-year award, but we are not finished yet and will be still awarding weekly winners.

This week’s winner of the Lott IMPACT trophy weekly award is the rangy linebacker from Utah, Chase Hansen.

Hansen was a key cog in helping his Utah Utes defeat Oregon, 32-25. He accumulated 13 tackles with 3.5 of them going for a loss. That added to his season total of tackles for loss and puts him at 19, which places him in a tie for second most in the nation. Hansen is a converted safety that plays with a hard-hitting demeanor, and the coverage ability to flourish in combats with the high flying offenses of college football. He is a terrific open-field tackler who possesses good speed to cover plays sideline-to-sideline. Coupled with his great hip fluidity for a linebacker, Hansen has the tools to cover big-bodied tight ends and speedy running backs out in the flat. With great instincts, he can read a play developing and will show an outstanding ability to elude or shed oncoming blockers. A true three-down defender that can influence a game in both pass and run defense, Hansen truly resembles the meaning of IMPACT as the team leader in Utah, and should get a large number of looks in the upcoming draft process. He bears a striking likeness to the new era linebacker of the NFL.

Hansen was not the only standout performer in last week’s games. Here’s some of his toughest competition for the award:

Deshaun Davis, LB: Auburn

Even though his team came up short this week against Georgia, Davis put up some staggering stats, accruing 10 tackles, 2 tackles for loss, and pitching in a sack. Davis is an undersized inside linebacker, who has tremendous instincts, play recognition, closing quickness, excellent tackling mechanics, and tackles with a nasty disposition. Due to his intelligence, he is like having a defensive coordinator in the huddle. Not only is he a contributor on the field, but he takes great effort to make an impact off of it as well.

Joe Dineen Jr., LB: Kansas

The always productive Dineen Jr. put up some very strong numbers as well, even though his efforts were for naught in the win column. In a heartbreaking loss to Kansas State, he produced 9 tackles, 2.5 TFL, and a sack. Dineen is the embodiment of a cerebral middle linebacker who is a true force in run defense. He has terrific play recognition and the instincts to flow to the ball quickly, along with enough speed to cover plays sideline-to-sideline. He uses his instincts to gain enough depth in his coverage drops that he becomes a pain for quarterbacks’ throwing lanes. With terrific tackling mechanics, the linebacker doesn’t let runners out of his grasp. He possesses a booming voice and takes great pride getting his teammates in the right spots to succeed.

Jordan Kunaszyk, LB: California

Kunaszyk helped his Cal Bears to a big-time victory over USC, and he put up strong numbers in the process: 11 tackles, a tackle for loss, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery.  Kunaszyk possesses a throwback style for a linebacker in terms of skill set. He is at his best when he sees the play develop and flies downfield. Do not discount his athleticism though, as he has enough speed to reach the far hashes in run defense, and he trusts that his eyes will bring him into the position to make the tackle. Indeed, he has a consistent striking ability that rarely allows ball carriers to elude him. Kunaszyk is also an effective inside blitzer with the ability to time in order to shoot the gap. With a steady set of hands, he often will come down with an interception when given the opportunity.

As always, we would like to congratulate Utah’s Chase Hansen for winning this week’s award, as well as the other candidates that were in consideration. Best of luck to those playing in Week 12 collegiate contests.

The post Blitzalytics – Lott IMPACT Trophy: Week 11 Recap appeared first on Lott IMPACT® Trophy.

As we keep steaming forward towards conference championship games, and flow right into bowl games, we take a minute to reflect on some of the top performers from last week’s action.

This week’s winner of the Lott IMPACT trophy weekly award is none other than Notre Dame linebacker Te’Von Coney.

Coney is one of the stars of the fighting Irish defense, and one of the main reasons why their defense is helping to keep them in the race for a national championship. This week, while helping keep his team undefeated against Northwestern, all he did was accrue 10 total tackles, 2 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, and chipped in a pass defensed. He is a thickly built ILB with great muscle definition, and is someone who makes his presence felt in the run defense department due to tremendous instincts, click and close ability, and short area quickness to beat O-linemen to rushing lanes. He has the strength to shed blockers and get in position to stun oncoming ball carriers. Coney is not just a two-down thumper though; he has loose enough joints to drop off into zone coverage, utilizing those instincts and combining them with above-average speed to blanket players trickling out of the backfield. He is very intelligent as well, and you rarely find him out of position. He is a steadying presence on the field, and no situation is too big for him.

Coney was not the only standout performer in last week’s games, and we will briefly highlight some of his toughest competition for the award.

Ben Burr-Kirven, LB: Washington

Another week, another dominant performance to put Burr-Kirven in the discussion for Lott IMPACT player of the week. The two-time award winner helped his Huskies defeat Stanford 27-23, and he stuffed the box score with a team-high 12 tackles, a forced fumble, and a pass defensed. Burr-Kirven is a tackling machine who plays like his hair is on fire. He uses great speed and acceleration combined with quality play recognition to close on ball carriers. Not only can the linebacker quickly diagnose plays, but he shows up with authority and with tremendous tackling mechanics. The Washington linebacker can be tasked with dropping off into zone coverage and be able to carry running backs and tight ends downfield due to his well-rounded skill set. With a nose for the ball, he always seems to be in the area when a big play is happening. Although he lacks a prototypical build, he makes up for it with instincts and intelligence. Burr-Kirven is a high-end prospect at the collegiate level who is Washington’s team leader.

Colin Schooler, LB: Arizona

Schooler has put up strong back-to-back performances to jump onto the radar or the weekly award. This week his team defeated Colorado 42-34 and he was all over the field producing 9 tackles, 3 tackles for loss, a sack, and a pass defensed. He is the heart and soul of Arizona’s defense, responsible for play calling and alignment on the defensive side of the ball. He shows outstanding intelligence for such a young player. The Arizona product possesses the speed to cover sideline-to-sideline in run defense and has the ability to utilize his instincts to penetrate gaps and bring ball carriers down. Schooler has a tremendous feel in coverage with the talent to hang with runners or tight end’s downfield. He is a sure tackler who won’t allow many ball carriers to elude his grasp.

Christian Wilkins, DL: Clemson

Wilkins is helping his Clemson Tigers in their charge back to a national championship with a dismantling of Louisville, 77-16. All he did was live in the opponent’s backfield with 5 total tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, a sack, and chip in an additional QB hurry. Wilkins is a physical freak, who can play up and down the defensive line. He even gets some time as a runner on offense due to his freaky athleticism. He is blessed with great strength and quickness to rock linemen back on their heels, so much so that offensive coordinators must gameplan for him. He possesses the strong hands necessary to shed blocks, and a motor to scrape off linemen and finish plays. He also flashes a variety of pass rushing moves that help him set up OL for failure. Overall, Wilkins displays a non-stop motor that helps him make a ton of plays, and is a sure tackler to boot.

As always, we would like to congratulate Notre Dame’s, Te’Von Coney for winning this week’s award and the other candidates that were in consideration. Best of luck to those playing in Week 11 collegiate contests.

The post Blitzalytics – Lott IMPACT Trophy: Week 10 Recap appeared first on Lott IMPACT® Trophy.

We are winding down on the last few weeks of college football and entering bowl season. First, we need to stop and recognize the standout performers from week 9.

For the second time this season, standout linebacker Josh Allen has been voted player of the week.

Allen was a terror in Missouri’s backfield; he collected 11 tackles, 2 sacks, and added 2 forced fumbles, helping his team pick up a clutch win by a close 15-14 margin. With week 9 in the books, Allen now leads the SEC in sacks and tackles for loss ranking second and third nationally. He is a monster who continually makes big plays terrorizing QB’s at the release point leading to his 5 forced fumbles. When evaluating his skill set, he is blessed with loose hips, an ability to bend the edge, the strong hands needed to slip off blocks, and the speed to win on rushing situations. Kentucky’s defensive leader can win in a variety of ways to put pressure on the quarterback. He is not only a one trick pony, as he shows a true acumen for being able to drop off from his usual outside linebacker position and carry tight ends or running backs into the flat. He also has a finisher’s mentality when he gets to the quarterback. He has demonstrated the true meaning of IMPACT utilizing leadership on the field and in the locker room.

Josh Allen wasn’t the only one up for consideration for his game-changing effort, and we will briefly look at some of his key competitors for the weekly honor.

Ben Burr-Kirven, LB: Washington

A stalwart on the player of the week voting circuit this year who has already collected the honor twice. Burr-Kirven pitched in 14 Tackles, 2 TFL, and a sack to a heartbreaking loss against Cal in a 12-10 defeat. Ben Burr-Kirven is a tackling machine, who plays like his hair is on fire. He uses great speed and acceleration combined with his quality play recognition to close on ball carriers. Not only can the linebacker quickly diagnose plays, but he shows up with authority and with tremendous tackling mechanics. The Washington linebacker can be tasked with dropping off into zone coverage and be able to carry running back’s and tight end’s downfield due to his well-rounded skill set. With a nose for the ball, he always seems to be in the area when a big play is happening. Although he lacks a prototypical build, he makes up for it with instincts and intelligence. A high-end prospect at the collegiate level who is Washington’s team leader.

Joe Dineen Jr., LB: Kansas

Joe Dineen Jr., Another former Lott IMPACT player of the week from early in the college season, was up for consideration this past week. Dineen accrued 13 tackles, and 5 tackles for loss in a demoralizing loss against the Horned Frogs by a score of 27-26. Dineen is the embodiment of a cerebral middle linebacker who is a true force in run defense. He has terrific play recognition and the instincts to flow to the ball quickly. Dineen has enough speed to cover plays sideline-to-sideline. He uses his instincts to gain good depth in his coverage drops so that he can become a pain for quarterback’s throwing lanes. With terrific tackling mechanics, the linebacker doesn’t let runners out of his grasp. He possesses a booming voice and takes great pride getting his teammates in the right spots to succeed. The true embodiment of the Lott Foundation and what the award stands for.

Colin Schooler, LB: Arizona

For the second time during the 2018 collegiate season, Colin Schooler was in contention for player of the week honors due to his quality contributions of 11 tackles, and 1.5 TFL in a statement victory over Oregon, 44-15. He is the heart and soul of Arizona’s defense responsible for play calling and alignment on the defensive side of the ball. He shows outstanding intelligence for such a young player. The Arizona product possesses the speed to cover sideline-to-sideline in run defense and has the ability to utilize his instincts to penetrate gaps and bring ball carriers down. Schooler has a tremendous feel in coverage with the talent to hang with runners or tight end’s downfield. He is a sure tackler who won’t allow many ball carriers to elude his grasp.

As always, we would like to congratulate Kentucky’s Josh Allen for winning this week’s award and the other candidates that were in consideration. Best of luck to those playing in Week 10 collegiate contests.

The post Blitzalytics – Lott IMPACT Trophy: Week 9 Recap appeared first on Lott IMPACT® Trophy.

Written By: Roy Countryman @Blitzalytics
@PrecherBoyRoy

Week 8 for college football fanatics was full of heart pumping, pulse-pounding action, that was culminated by a group of individuals putting up some big time production on route to some notable victories.

One such performance was put up by standout Washington linebacker, Ben Burr-Kirven. He is week eights Lott IMPACT trophy player of the week.

Burr-Kirven becomes the first two-time trophy winner, and his playmaking ability is why. He recorded 15 total tackles and snared an interception which he returned for 20 yards. The Huskies linebacker has accrued a staggering 108 total tackles through the first 8 weeks of the season; he leads all players in the country.  Ben Burr-Kirven is a tackling machine, who plays like his hair is on fire. He uses great speed, and acceleration combined with an upper-echelon play recognition to close on ball carriers. Not only can the linebacker quickly diagnose plays, but he shows up with authority and with tremendous tackling mechanics. He can be tasked with dropping off into zone coverages and be able to carry running back’s and tight end’s downfield due to his well-rounded skill set. With a nose for the ball, he always seems to be in the area when a big play is happening. Although he lacks a prototypical build, he makes up for it with instincts and intelligence. Putting together a statistically dominant year will certainly lead to a selection to the All-American team, with more opportunities to win another weekly award from the Lott Foundation.

Burr-Kirven was not the only key contributor and candidate for this week’s award, so here are a few others that were worthy adversaries.

Josh Allen, Linebacker: Kentucky

After a week off, Allen was back wreaking havoc against SEC backfields. He contributed 8 tackles, 2 Sacks, and a forced fumble to help Kentucky defeat Vanderbilt. Blessed with loose hips, an ability to bend the edge, strong hand usage to slip offensive line blocks, the speed to burn on outside moves, excellent length, and an ability to convert speed to power inside, he can win in a variety of ways to put pressure on the quarterback. He is not only a one trick pony though, with his loose hips, speed, and agility he shows a true acumen for being able to drop off from his usual outside linebacker position and carry tight ends or running backs into the flat.

Chase Hansen, Linebacker: Utah

Back to Back weeks of strong performances for Hansen has led him to be in the conversation for player of the week. All he did was produce 11 tackles, 3 TFL, and grab an interception on route to helping his Utah Utes defeat USC. Hansen is a converted safety that plays with a hard hitting demeanor, and the coverage ability to flourish in combatants with the high flying offenses in college football. He is a terrific open-field tackler who possesses good speed to cover plays sideline-to-sideline. The Utah product displays great hip fluidity for the linebacker position and a prowess for carrying man coverage responsibilities of big-bodied tight end’s and running backs out in the flat. With great instincts, he can read a play developing and will show an outstanding ability to elude or shed oncoming blockers. A true three-down defender, that can influence a game in pass defense and the running game, Hansen truly resembles the meaning of Impact as the team leader at Utah.

Colin Schooler, Linebacker: Arizona

A new addition to our contenders for player of the week, but I am sure it will not be the last time you will hear his name taken into consideration. Schooler is a blue-chip linebacker, who is only a Sophomore, and he took over the game on defense in a heartbreaking loss to UCLA. All he did was accumulate 10 tackles, 3 tackles for loss, and one sack. He was named the PAC 12 Freshman Defensive Player of the Year last year, and with his skill set, he could make multiple All-American lists until his eligibility is up. The heart and soul of Arizona’s defense, he gets everyone aligned on the defensive side of the ball and shows outstanding intelligence for such a young player. He possesses the speed to cover sideline-to-sideline in run defense and uses his upper echelon instincts to penetrate gaps and bring ball carriers down. Schooler has a tremendous feel in coverage as well and can hang with runners or tight end’s downfield. He is a sure tackler who won’t allow many ball carriers to elude his grasp. His skill mimics a lot of the same traits as this week’s winner.

As always we would like to congratulate Washington’s Ben Burr-Kirven for winning this week’s award and the other candidates that were in consideration. Best of luck to those playing in Week 9’s upcoming slate of games.

The post Blitzalytics – Lott IMPACT Trophy: Week 8 Recap appeared first on Lott IMPACT® Trophy.

Written By: Roy Countryman @Blitzalytics
@PrecherBoyRoy

Week 7, in the college football landscape, has come to a close. We all witnessed a ton of close games, surprising upsets, and some impressive individual performances.

This week’s winner of the Lott Impact Trophies player of the week is none other than standout LSU linebacker, Devin White.

White flashed his skill set brightly Saturday to the tune of 13 tackles, a fumble recovery and a QB hurry that helped his LSU Tigers upset the Georgia Bulldogs. In addition to being named the Lott Impact Player of the Week, he was also named the SEC Defensive Player of the Week for his dominating performance. To describe White’s presence on the field you first have to take notice that he is the heart and soul of the Louisiana State defense. He takes his leadership seriously on and off the field, and is a true general on the field that helps his teammates get lined up in the appropriate places. He possesses good speed to cover plays sideline-to-sideline, but it is his instincts and play diagnostics that enhances his game speed with a burst to the ball carrier. He is a powerful striker on contact, can separate the runner from the ball, and possesses enough hip fluidity to drop into zone coverage using his keen instincts to make a play on the ball in the air. He truly can impact the game by slicing through gaps and shutting down plays from the inside. He thrives on making big plays in big games, truly a bright lights standout.

There were other deserving candidates that were taken into consideration, and here is just a quick look at a few of White’s biggest competitors for the player of the week award.

Jordan Kunaszyk, Linebacker: California

Kunaszyk had a career day with 22 tackles, 2 tackles for loss, and a forced fumble. Although he was physically dominant throughout the contest, his Cal Bears were defeated by UCLA. He possesses a throwback style for a linebacker when discussing a players skill set. He is at his best seeing the play develop and fly downfield. Do not discount his athleticism though, he has enough speed to reach the far hashes in run defense, and he trusts his eyes bringing a consistent striking ability that rarely allows ball carriers to elude him. He is an effective inside blitzer with the ability to time in order to shoot the gap. With a steady set of hands, he often will come down with an interception when given the opportunity.

Chase Hansen, LB: Utah

Chase Hansen was a key contributor to his Utah Utes expressing dominance over Arizona this past week with 9 tackles, and a sack in the effort. Hansen is a converted safety that plays with a hard hitting demeanor, and the coverage ability to flourish in combatants with the high flying offenses in college football. He is a terrific open-field tackler who possesses good speed to cover plays sideline-to-sideline, with great hip fluidity for the linebacker position, and a prowess for carrying man coverage responsibility of big-bodied tight end’s and running backs out in the flat. With great instincts, he can read a play developing and will show an outstanding ability to elude or shed oncoming blockers. A true three-down defender, that can influence a game in pass defense and the running game, Hansen truly resembles the meaning of Impact as the team leader in Utah.

Ed Oliver, Defensive Line: Houston

Another week, another mention of Ed Oliver in the consideration for player of the week. This past weekend all he did was collect 6 tackles, an impressive 5 TFL, 2 sacks, a forced fumble, and an additional QB hurry en route to his Houston Cougars rolling East Carolina. Every time he steps on the field it is undeniable who the most dominant player is. He truly can overtake a game from his place along the defensive line, with offensive coordinators having to equate for him on every single play with a double team, or be left in a vulnerable position due to his elite combination of power, quickness, and technique. His strong anchor like hands allow him to ragdoll offensive lineman, and shed blockers to penetrate into the backfield. Enjoy watching this man play, because he will be one of the top players at the next level shortly.

As always we would like to congratulate LSU’s Devin White for winning this weeks award, and the other candidates that were in consideration. Best of luck to those playing in Week 8’s upcoming slate of games.

The post Blitzalytics – Lott IMPACT Trophy: Week 7 Recap appeared first on Lott IMPACT® Trophy.

Written By: Roy Countryman @Blitzalytics
@PrecherBoyRoy

Week 6 is in the books, and collectively there were a ton of competitive games to watch. Highlighted in some were our candidates for this week’s award.

This week’s winner of the Lott Impact Trophies player of the week is Adarius Pickett, Defensive Back: UCLA.

Pickett was one of the key cogs in helping keep UCLA in a tight game against Washington, but it ultimately ended in defeat. To take nothing away from his career day though, he contributed 16 tackles, and his first interception of the season that he returned for 12 yards. Those 16 tackles add to his UCLA leading total of 61, coming dangerously close to already eclipsing his career high of 85 that he accrued last season. Pickett seemed to be flying around the field like a bird of prey, quickly diagnosing plays, and laying some timely hits. He possesses a very talented skill set that includes; good speed, great diagnostic ability during the play, instincts to react in a flash, and fluidity in his hips to be able to flip and cover downfield. Where he truly is a difference maker is his ability to set the tone with some bone-jarring hits. He brings his pads, and a mean disposition every time he has a ball-carrier in his sites. He not only has a nose for the ball in run defense but has the ability to come up with turnovers evidenced by his 6 career interceptions. He is very intelligent, brings a unique element of energy, and is the heart and soul of the UCLA defense.

Pickett was not the only athlete taken into consideration this week, and we will take a quick look at some of those competitors.

Khaleke Hudson-DB-Michigan

Hudson was a key cog in being able to bring home a victory for his Wolverines against Maryland 42-21. He contributed 5 tackles, 2 TFL, and 1 sack in the contest. Hudson is the definition of the new wave DB, and he plays a key position on the Michigan defense called the Viper, a similar position that brought much fame and draft prestige to Jabrill Peppers. Hudson is a well put together DB, that plays closer to the line of scrimmage, but from time to time will be asked to drop off into coverage. He has excellent closing speed and quickness, solid build, can shed blockers downfield, and land some hard hits. His true calling card though is his knack for making game-changing plays by his pass rush off the edge. He has an innate sense of when to time up blitzes, as well as a slipperiness to his demeanor that makes it hard for OT or TE’s trying to get a hand on him. He also can stop on a dime and jump up into throwing lanes as well to foil a play.

Ed Oliver-DL-Houston

One of the best talents on the defensive side of the ball was on display when Ed Oliver flexed his muscles and helped his Houston Cougars defeat Tulsa 41-26. He tossed in 13 tackles, 1.5 TFL, and another QB hurry. There are tons to say about the way Oliver plays football at the college level, and you can guarantee that he has already established himself as one of the top players for the next level. Although hype surrounds the big man, his work ethic, and humbleness are traits that stick out. Oliver possesses out of this world quickness off the ball, strong hands to ragdoll Offensive Lineman trying to block him, a rarified ability to get skinny in between gaps and penetrate into the backfield. He has a knack for causing disruption, and turnovers, and will lay some heavy hits when he has a ball carrier lined up. Relentless in his pursuit and will hustle downfield to make plays. His motor is always heated up and revving. The Cougars defensive tackle has some ridiculous athleticism for a D-Lineman, and at times looks like a svelte LB the way he moves around the field. He was making a bid to be the first two-time Lott IMPACT champion this year but fell just short to Adarius Pickett’s impressive performance.

T.J. Edwards-LB-Wisconsin

Edwards contributed in a big way to his Badgers defeating Nebraska 41-24. He accrued 7 tackles, 2 sacks, and another QB hurry. Edwards is a very intriguing next level talent at linebacker, who can make his presence felt in both the run and passing departments. He has good size, great instincts, and good speed to be able to make plays sideline-to-sideline. He is a little stiff in transition when asked to drop into zone coverage but has a keen sense of when and where the ball will be on any given play, and he is not above getting his hands on a few INT’s. He uses excellent tackling mechanics, and not many ball carriers escape his clutches. This week he made his presence felt in the blitzing department, where you could see his power, and short area explosiveness be felt.

Outstanding work from all the candidates that were in consideration for week 6’s award, and best of luck to those trying to make a name for themselves in week 7.

The post Blitzalytics – Lott IMPACT Trophy: Week 6 Recap appeared first on Lott IMPACT® Trophy.

Written By: Roy Countryman @Blitzalytics
@PrecherBoyRoy

Week 5 in the college football landscape had a ton of epic games, and performances. As always the voters this week were torn between a number of quality showings from some of the top defensive playmakers out there.

This week’s winner is none other than Kentucky’s linebacker, Josh Allen.

Allen helped the upstart Wildcats defeat fellow SEC foe South Carolina 24-10. He contributed 8 total tackles, 4 TFL, 3 Sacks, 1 QB hurry, and 1 FF. This is the second consecutive week that Allen was amongst the finalist for the weekly award. Examining his skill set, it is easy to see why he may have a say in the final voting for the Lott Impact Trophy by seasons end. Blessed with loose hips, an ability to bend the edge, strong hand usage to slip offensive line blocks, the speed to burn on outside moves, excellent length, and an ability to convert speed to power inside, he can win in a variety of ways to put pressure on the quarterback. He is not only a one trick pony though, with his loose hips, speed, and agility he shows a true acumen for being able to drop off from his usual OLB position and carry tight ends or running backs into the flat. Josh Allen is one of the few multi-dimensional Linebacker’s in the country, and should be one of the reasons Kentucky continues their strong performance moving forward.

Allen was not the only player under consideration this week, and we will examine just a few of his strongest competitors for this week’s award.

Deshaun Davis, Linebacker: Auburn

Deshaun Davis was the Lott Impact Trophy week 3 player of the week, and he was making a bid to be the first two time winner this year. Davis put in a blue collar effort in a 24-8 win over Southern Mississippi, with 10 Tackles, and 2 TFL. Davis is an undersized ILB, who has tremendous instincts, play recognition, closing quickness, excellent tackling mechanics, and tackles with a nasty disposition. Due to his intelligence, he is like having a defensive coordinator in the huddle. Not only is he a contributor on the field, but takes great effort to make an impact off of it as well.

Zach Allen, Defensive End: Boston College

Allen contributed to Boston College winning a big game against Temple 45-35 recording 8 total tackles, 4 TFL, 2 sacks, and 1 QB hurry. Allen possesses a big, strong, and rugged DE prospect who can win plays with a variety of ways. He has strong hand usage, great length, an innate sense of when to get his hands up into throwing lanes, and an array of pass rush moves including a deadly push-pull, and a spin move. He plays with elite effort, and will not give up on making a play into the second phase of a play.

Te’von Coney, Linebacker: Notre Dame

Coney was a key contributor in one of the highlights of the Notre Dame season against Stanford. They came out on top with a 38-17 victory, that was directly affected by Conley pitched. He accrued 7 tackles, .5 TFL, and 1 PD in the victory. Coney is a well-sized ILB, who makes his presence felt in the run defense department, due to tremendous instincts, click and close ability. He has the strength to take on OL and shed them to shut down running lanes. He isn’t just a two-down thumper though and has loose enough joints to drop off into zone coverage to utilize those instincts and combine them with above-average speed to blanket players trickling out of the backfield.

This was a tremendous week in college football, with a well deserving player receiving the week 5 award. Best of luck to all nominees in week 6.

The post Blitzalytics – Lott IMPACT Trophy: Week 5 Recap appeared first on Lott IMPACT® Trophy.

Written By: Roy Countryman @Blitzalytics
@PrecherBoyRoy

Onward we are marching into the action for week 4 of the college season, and there were many players who have made a big impression on the voters for this very prestigious award. The distinguishing traits portrayed by the winners expand too far beyond the hash marks, and each candidate must strive to show a commitment to their school work, as well as in the community.

The winner this week is none other than the tackling machine, Ben Burr-Kirven.

Burr-Kirven was running around making plays sideline-to-sideline, totaling a career-high 20 tackles, including 14 solo, two forced fumbles, while recovering one. This is not the first time that Burr-Kirven has been able to produce gaudy numbers this year, he was also named PAC-12 Player of the week in consecutive weeks. Including an 11 tackle performance against conference foe Utah. Not only is Burr-Kirven a heady player on the field who uses that intelligence to quickly diagnose plays, he is a two-time All-Academic First Team player. He has a varied skill set that includes being a decorated track star in high school as a sprinter.

Scout’s Take: Ben Burr-Kirven is a tackling machine. He uses great speed, and acceleration combined with upper-echelon play recognition to close on ball carriers. Not only can he quickly diagnose plays, but he shows up with authority and with tremendous tackling mechanics. He can be tasked with dropping off into zone coverages and be able to carry RB’s and TE’s downfield due to his well-rounded skill set. He has a nose for the ball, and always seems to be around when a big play is happening. He should continue to threaten for multiple nominations for the Lott IMPACT Trophy Award.

Other Deserving Candidates:

Josh Allen, LB: Kentucky

Vs. Mississippi State-6 tackles, 2 TFL, 1 Sack, 1 PD, and 1 QB Hurry.

Scout’s take: Josh Allen was a pass rushing force against Mississippi State, and was regularly in the opponent’s backfield. At times he seemed to be lining up on the offensive side of the ball, as he was in the QB’s face on virtually every snap. Allen is a long, and strong defender who can make an impact on the game in a variety of ways of the field. He is at his best though when he can line up outside, and use his length, burst, and strength to dominate offensive lineman.

Devin White, LB: LSU

Vs. Louisiana Tech-11 tackles, 2.5 TFL, 1 Sack, and 1 Fumble Recovery.

Scout’s take: Devin White is a stud ILB prospect, who can really take over a game inside the hashes due to his sideline-to-sideline ability as well as his strong instincts. White shows a good burst, strength to stack and shed, as well as a knack for penetrating gaps to make big plays.

Christian Wilkins, DT: Clemson

Vs. Georgia Tech-5 tackles, 2 TFL,1 Sack, and 1 Fumble Recovery.

Scout’s take: Wilkins is a physical freak, who can play up and down the defensive line. Blessed with a strength, and quickness to rock OL back on their heels, offensive coordinators must gameplan for him. Wilkins possesses the strong hands necessary to shed blocks, and a motor to scrap off lineman and finish plays.

Congratulations to Ben Burr-Kirven, and best of luck to the candidates in Week 5.

The post Blitzalytics – Lott IMPACT Trophy: Week 4 Recap appeared first on Lott IMPACT® Trophy.