Dylan Sampson: A Rising Star in College Football and the 2024 Maxwell Award Winner

In a year that saw the landscape of college football evolve with stunning performances and memorable moments, one player’s rise to prominence stands out: Dylan Sampson, the University of Tennessee’s (Vols) dynamic running back. Sampson’s exceptional performance on the field, his tireless work ethic, and his unwavering dedication to excellence have earned him one of the sport’s highest honors—the 2024 Maxwell Award for Excellence and Exceptional Contribution to the Game. This prestigious accolade recognizes the best college football player in the country and serves as a testament to Sampson’s extraordinary contributions to the Tennessee football program and the broader college football community.

The Maxwell Award: A Legacy of Excellence

Named after the legendary sportswriter Robert W. Maxwell, the Maxwell Award has been presented annually since 1937. It is considered one of the most coveted individual honors in college football, with past winners including the likes of legends such as Herschel Walker, Barry Sanders, Peyton Manning, and more recently, quarterbacks like Joe Burrow and Caleb Williams. The award is given to the player who has demonstrated the most outstanding all-around ability and impact on the football field during the college season.

What makes the Maxwell Award so prestigious is that it honors not just individual statistics, but the overall contribution a player makes to his team’s success and to the game of football as a whole. For Dylan Sampson, receiving the Maxwell Award is a remarkable milestone in his journey, underscoring his status as one of the brightest stars in college football.

Sampson’s Journey to the Maxwell Award

Dylan Sampson’s story is not just one of innate talent, but also of perseverance, hard work, and continuous improvement. From a young age, he exhibited a natural gift for football, particularly as a running back. Born and raised in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Sampson played high school football at Catholic High School, where he quickly became a star. His blend of speed, agility, and vision on the field caught the attention of college scouts from across the country. Sampson was particularly renowned for his ability to change direction quickly, break tackles, and accelerate to top speed with seemingly little effort.

His high school success translated well into the college ranks when Sampson committed to the University of Tennessee. When he arrived in Knoxville, the Vols were undergoing a renaissance under head coach Josh Heupel, who had revitalized the program with his high-powered, fast-paced offense. Sampson’s skill set was a perfect match for Heupel’s system, which relies on explosive plays and dynamic athletes who can contribute both in the running and passing game.

As a freshman, Sampson was a promising contributor to the team’s offense, but it wasn’t until his sophomore year that he truly began to shine. By the 2024 season, Sampson had firmly established himself as one of the top running backs in the country, combining physicality with speed and vision that allowed him to excel in multiple facets of the game. His ability to read defenses, find gaps in the offensive line, and then exploit them with exceptional speed made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

In 2024, Sampson emerged as not only one of the SEC’s top running backs but one of the nation’s best. With his remarkable ability to break off long runs, pick up crucial first downs, and contribute as a pass catcher out of the backfield, Sampson was a key part of Tennessee’s high-octane offense.

His statistics for the season were staggering—over 1,700 yards rushing, 25 total touchdowns, and an average of nearly 7 yards per carry. These numbers were not only remarkable in their own right, but they also came in the context of a highly competitive SEC conference, where defenses are renowned for their strength and toughness. Sampson’s consistency in performing at a high level against some of the best defenses in the nation solidified his place among the elite players in college football.

Breaking Down Sampson’s Playing Style

Dylan Sampson’s success on the football field can be attributed to several key attributes that make him stand out as a complete back. First and foremost is his vision. Sampson has an innate ability to see the field in a way that few players can, allowing him to make decisions on the fly and choose the right hole or lane to run through. This vision is often what separates good running backs from great ones, and it is something Sampson has honed over years of playing football.

Another standout quality in Sampson’s game is his agility. Whether it’s making defenders miss in the open field or dodging would-be tacklers in tight spaces, Sampson’s quickness and ability to change direction rapidly make him extremely difficult to tackle. His fluidity as a runner is complemented by his lower-body strength, which enables him to break tackles and fight for extra yardage even after contact.

In addition to his physical traits, Sampson is also a well-rounded back. He has proven himself to be an excellent pass catcher, capable of running routes out of the backfield and contributing as a legitimate receiving threat. This versatility makes him even more dangerous, as opposing defenses can’t afford to focus solely on his running ability—Sampson is just as likely to catch a screen pass or a swing route and turn it into a big gain.

But perhaps the most notable aspect of Sampson’s playing style is his football IQ. He is not just a gifted athlete; he is a student of the game. His understanding of Tennessee’s offensive scheme, the defensive tendencies of opponents, and the nuances of each play make him a cerebral player who elevates the performance of those around him. This intelligence, paired with his athleticism, is what makes him one of the most complete and effective running backs in the country.

Sampson’s Impact on the Tennessee Vols

Dylan Sampson’s contribution to the University of Tennessee’s football program has been immeasurable. His leadership on and off the field has been pivotal to the team’s success, particularly during a season in which Tennessee aimed to reclaim national prominence in college football. With Sampson at the helm of the offense, the Vols were able to compete at the highest level in the SEC and beyond. His explosive plays were often the difference in close games, and his consistency allowed the Vols to sustain their offensive success throughout the season.

Moreover, Sampson’s presence in the locker room cannot be overstated. Known for his humble demeanor and work ethic, Sampson is a leader who leads by example. He sets the tone for his teammates with his relentless drive and determination. Sampson’s leadership was particularly evident during tough moments in the season when the team faced adversity. His ability to stay focused and maintain his level of play inspired others to follow suit, helping Tennessee achieve a level of cohesion and unity that contributed to their overall success.

Beyond the statistical achievements, Sampson’s performances were a driving force behind the Vols’ success in major games, including crucial matchups against rival teams and high-stakes bowl games. His leadership and clutch performances not only helped the team on the scoreboard but also raised the profile of Tennessee football as a whole.

Sampson’s Legacy in College Football

The 2024 Maxwell Award is not just a personal triumph for Dylan Sampson; it is a reflection of his broader impact on the game of college football. As a player who has consistently elevated the standard for excellence, Sampson’s legacy will likely extend far beyond his time in Knoxville. His performances have inspired young athletes, and his commitment to hard work, humility, and discipline serves as a model for what it means to be a great football player.

Sampson’s win also signals a shift in the landscape of college football, where multi-dimensional, versatile running backs like him are becoming more central to offensive schemes. His ability to contribute in both the running and passing games, as well as his leadership and football intelligence, will influence the way future players at his position approach the game.