Superstar defensive end Carl Nassib is a finalist for the Lott IMPACT Trophy, given to the college football player who best represents the qualities of integrity, maturity, performance, academics, community, and tenacity. Nassib is on the ballot for plenty of awards this postseason, ranging from the Bednarik (best defensive player) to the Piesman (best big guy making little guy plays).

Most relevant to the Lott is the Burlsworth, which is given to the nation’s best former walk-on. Nassib never started a football game when he was in high school, but a growth spurt mixed with working unbelievably hard rocketed him into being the best player on a stout Penn State defense. He’s also the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year, and said this about the honors he’s beginning to receive:

Nassib, who started career as a walk-on: "You can't control talent, and you can't control size, but you can control how hard you work."

— Onward State (@OnwardState) November 30, 2015

And better yet, read this story from defensive line coach Sean Spencer:

https://twitter.com/JourdanRodrigue/status/665213783585988608

Nassib clearly fits all of the criteria for the trophy. Duke’s Jeremy Cash, Temple’s Tyler Matakevich, and Ohio State’s Joshua Perry are the other finalists. The winner will be announced Sunday, December 13 on Fox Sports at 10 p.m.

About the Author

Doug Leeson

Doug is a sophomore and Onward State's Assistant Managing Editor. Dislikes: popcorn, Rutgers, and a low #TimberCount. Likes: "Frozen," Rec Hall, and you. Contact him via email at dougleeson@onwardstate.com or on Twitter @DougLeeson.

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