Dylan Sampson reacts to being snubbed for Doak Walker Award

Tennessee running back Dylan Sampson has proven himself as one of the nation’s best at his position. He’s racked up 1,485 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns on the ground. The Volunteer tailback has been dominant all season long, but his numbers weren’t good enough to put him as a finalist for the Doak Walker Award. On the Thursday edition of The Jim Rome Show, Sampson discussed the snub.

“I mean it’s kind of like I said I got access, you know, previously. But, you know, certain things I don’t let it validate me, you know? So, I mean, it would be great to be in those conversations. I do think I’ve done everything possible to deserve being in those conversations,” Sampson began.

“But those things don’t value. Like, just like my coach says, he knows the value and I know the value that I have to this team. And I know when I’m at my best. I’m strong and I know what I can do. So, I mean, people have turned on the tape and they’ll see what I do and as we continue to make this playoff run. You know, I only plan on getting strong and stronger as the weeks go by,” Sampson finished.

Sampson has put together quite the season for the Volunteers and while he won’t be a Doak Walker Award finalist, he’s sure to get some attention from NFL scouts. He currently leads the SEC in 11 different categories and ranks third nationally in rushing touchdowns. Sampson is also tied for first in the Power Four (22 touchdowns). His school-record of 22 rushing touchdowns are the most by an SEC player since Alabama’s Najee Harris. Harris led the country with 26 rushing touchdowns in 2020 (13 games). Among other stats, Sampson also leads the SEC in rushing yards per game (123.8.).

The Tennessee Volunteers are currently ranked No. 7 in the latest version of the CFP Rankings. They’ve positioned themselves well for the upcoming College Football Playoff. It’ll be exciting to watch Sampson and the Vols compete in the first 12-team playoff in college football history.