Lausanne running back Craig Cunningham ’22 was named a semi-finalist for the 2021 Tennessee Titans Mr. Football awards.
“Being named a semifinalist for Mr. Football is a big honor," head football coach Kevin Locastro said. "Craig has worked extremely hard throughout his career and is very deserving of the recognition.”
Three finalists in each classification will be announced on Tuesday, Nov. 23 and invited to the Dec. 7 luncheon at Nissan Stadium, where the winner of each award will be honored. The finalists will be unveiled by Titans announcer Mike Keith and head coach Mike Vrabel.
“It is truly a blessing to be named Mr. Football semifinalist,” Cunningham said. “It is something I’ve been dreaming and praying about since ninth grade. Last year having only played five games I feel like I was cut short of really showing people my abilities as a football player. But this year I think I’ve started to make a name for myself and show the state what type of player Craig Cunningham II is.”
Cunningham has posted impressive numbers during this season for the Lynx. He has rushed for 1,230 yards on 138 carries while scoring 20 touchdowns.
“Craig is an integral part of our offense,” Locastro said. “His work ethic is contagious and he truly leads by example. He always gives great effort and is an amazing team mate. Craig has rushed for over 100 yards in every game this year. That is not easy to do and also speaks volumes to how well our offensive line is playing.”
High school head coaches and members of the media nominated players, and a committee of statewide sports writers determined the semifinalists based on performance during the 2021 regular season. Academics and character were also considered.
“Our mission isn’t completed just yet,” Cunningham said. “Winning Mr. Football would be cool and great recognition for me but, I’m mainly focused on the true goal and that is leading my team to Chattanooga and winning a gold ball!”
The finalists in Division II-AA are:
- Alexander Broome, Lipscomb Academy
- Craig Cunningham, Lausanne
- Langston Patterson, CPA
- Luther Richesson, Lipscomb Academy
- Sean Williams, BGA