By Regan Hunsaker, SUU Athletics
CEDAR CITY, Utah — Multiple Thunderbirds were recognized for outstanding performances this season, earning All-Conference accolades in the United Athletic Conference (UAC). Highlighted by Targhee Lambson, who was named Offensive Player of the Year, the Thunderbirds earned prestigious awards, including four First Team and four Second Team selections and two players earning Academic All-Conference honors.
Coach Delane Fitzgerald said “These young men bought in to what we, as coaches, have been trying to teach in our program. They don’t just play hard; they play for each other, and that has made this one of the most successful seasons in program history.”
First Team All-UAC
Targhee Lambson | Running Back | UAC Offensive Player of the Year
A dominant force on the ground, Lambson delivered a historic season with 1,922 rushing yards on 320 carries, averaging an impressive 6.0 yards per carry and 160.2 yards per game. He reached the end zone 23 times and showcased his explosiveness with a 76-yard season-long run. Lambson’s consistent ability to carry the workload and deliver game-changing performances earned him both First Team honors and the coveted UAC Offensive Player of the Year award. He is also a top-three finalist for the prestigious FCS Walter Payton Award.
George Ramirez | Defensive Back
The leader of the Thunderbirds’ defense, Ramirez, recorded 98 total tackles (62 solo) in 12 games. He contributed six tackles for loss, one sack, and created turnovers with two interceptions and two forced fumbles. Ramirez’s versatility and playmaking ability made him a cornerstone of the defense, impacting both the run game and pass coverage.
Lyle Santos | Offensive Line
A key piece in Southern Utah’s dominant rushing attack, Santos anchored the offensive line with leadership and consistency. His ability to create running lanes played a vital role in Lambson’s record-breaking season. Santos’ dominance at the point of attack helped elevate the Thunderbirds’ offense into one of the most productive units in the conference.
Collin Gardner | Offensive Line
Gardner was a model of strength and precision on the offensive line. His consistency in both pass protection and run blocking provided critical opportunities for the rushing game, helping Lambson’s 1,922-yard campaign. Gardner’s efforts solidified the line as one of the most dominant forces in the UAC.
Second Team All-UAC
Edward Riley | Center
Riley’s leadership and intelligence at the center position were instrumental in Southern Utah’s offensive success. His ability to make pre-snap adjustments and execute assignments paved the way for both the rushing and passing games.
Steven Eakins | Offensive Line
A standout performer, Eakins brought physicality and precision to the offensive line. His exceptional work in run blocking and pass protection helped the Thunderbirds sustain long drives and create explosive plays.
Lando Brown | Defensive Line
Brown was a disruptive force in the trenches, leading the team with ten tackles for loss and 4 sacks. His relentless ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks and make plays in the backfield helped set the tone for the defense.
Gavin Lipkin | Long Snapper
Lipkin excelled as the team’s long snapper, consistently delivering flawless snaps for punts, field goals, and PATs. He added value to punt coverage, contributed key tackles, and demonstrated excellence off the field by earning Academic All-Conference recognition.
Academic All-Conference
Collin Gardner
In addition to his First Team honors, Gardner showcased excellence in the classroom, earning Academic All-Conference recognition for his achievements off the field. Gardner was also named to the 2023 CSC Academic All-District team.
Gavin Lipkin
Lipkin’s contributions as a long snapper were matched by his strong academic performance, earning him a well-deserved spot on the Academic All-Conference team. Lipkin was also named to the 2023 CSC Academic All-District team.
The Thunderbirds’ remarkable showing in the All-Conference awards highlights a season of exceptional performances and sets a strong foundation for the future of Southern Utah football. Congratulations to all the award winners!