Boulware Wins Jack Lambert Award

Clemson, S.C.—Clemson senior linebacker Ben Boulware has been named the recipient of the 2016 Jack Lambert Award. The honor is presented each year to the top linebacker in the nation by the Touchdown Club of Columbus, Ohio. Boulware will receive his award at the organization’s annual banquet on Feb. 4.

The award is named for Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Famer and Kent State football legend Jack Lambert.

During Clemson’s ACC Championship season, Boulware led the Tigers with 113 tackles, including nine for a loss and three sacks. He also forced three fumbles and intercepted a pass. He is a big reason Clemson ranks ninth in the nation in total defense, third in sacks and third in tackles for loss.   He had 17 tackles in Clemson’s win over Louisville and was named national defensive player of the week by four different services.

The senior, who will graduate on December 15, has been a starter each of the last two years when Clemson has qualified for the College Football Playoff and won the ACC title. The first-team All-ACC player has played 52 games in his career and has 334 career tackles, most among active Tigers.

Boulware is the first Clemson Tiger to win the award which was first presented in 1991 and has been claimed by current NFL stars Khalil Mack, Luke Kuechly, and Von Miller.

Boulware is the second Clemson player to be recognized with a national award this week by the Touchdown Club of Columbus. Quarterback Deshaun Watson won the Chic Harley Award as the National player of the Year earlier this week and will join Boulware at the Feb. 4, ceremony.