| Isaiah Crowell has rushed for over 1,500 yards and 24 touchdowns in 16 games at Alabama State. (Advocate photo) |
Though it’s named after the legendary Jackson State running back, the Walter Payton Award has rarely been given to an HBCU player. Only twice in its 25 year history has a player from an HBCU won the award, given to the FCS’ best player. Alabama State’s Isaiah Crowell will attempt to be the third this year as he was officially added to the watch list yesterday.
Former #Carver #UGA RB Isaiah Crowell added to Walter Payton Award Watch List http://t.co/s37WqfOaT3
– Chelsa Messinger (@ChelsaMessinger) October 1, 2013
//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js Crowell arrived at Alabama State with high expectations last season after being named SEC Rookie of The Year in 2011. After a good-but-not great 2012 season, Crowell has taken it up a notch so far.
Crowell currently ranks fifth in total rushing yards (695) and rushing yards per game (139) through six games. He’s also run for nine touchdowns, including four last Saturday against Alcorn State. He has over 1,500 yards and 24 rushing touchdowns in 16 games at ASU.
If Crowell were to win the award, he would join Grambling’s Walter Dean and Alcorn State’s Steve McNair as the only HBCU winners.