Photo by: Brisenia Flores
Gaither named finalist for Buchanan Award
11/22/2022 1:00:00 PM | Football
HUNTSVILLE — Sam Houston linebacker Kavian Gaither has been named one of 30 finalist for the Stats Perform 2022 Buck Buchanan Award, which is annually presented to the national defensive player of the year in the Football Championship Subdivision.
Gaither, a sophomore from Waco, posted double-digit tackles in the final four games of the season and finished with 79 total tackles, 12 tackles for a loss, three sacks, two forced fumble and three fumble recoveries in nine games. He did not become a starter until the fifth game of the season against Eastern Kentucky and he made an instant impact with nine tackles, two for a loss, and a fumble recovery.
The Buchanan Award, first presented in 1995 and in its 28th season, is named for legendary defensive lineman Junious "Buck" Buchanan, who starred at Grambling State as part of his Hall of Fame career. Past recipients include Dexter Coakley, Rashean Mathis, Jared Allen and Arthur Moats.
A national media panel will select the Buchanan Award winner, with voting based on the regular season. The recipient will be announced at the FCS National Awards banquet on Jan. 7 in Frisco on the eve of the national championship game.
Â
Gaither, a sophomore from Waco, posted double-digit tackles in the final four games of the season and finished with 79 total tackles, 12 tackles for a loss, three sacks, two forced fumble and three fumble recoveries in nine games. He did not become a starter until the fifth game of the season against Eastern Kentucky and he made an instant impact with nine tackles, two for a loss, and a fumble recovery.
The Buchanan Award, first presented in 1995 and in its 28th season, is named for legendary defensive lineman Junious "Buck" Buchanan, who starred at Grambling State as part of his Hall of Fame career. Past recipients include Dexter Coakley, Rashean Mathis, Jared Allen and Arthur Moats.
A national media panel will select the Buchanan Award winner, with voting based on the regular season. The recipient will be announced at the FCS National Awards banquet on Jan. 7 in Frisco on the eve of the national championship game.
Â
Players Mentioned
LB
/ FootballWednesday, February 11
Wednesday, February 04
Saturday, November 29
Tuesday, November 25
