LOCK HAVEN, Pa. - IUP defensive end Tyrone Fowler Jr. was named the 2021 Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) Western Division Freshman of the Year, as the league announced its postseason awards Wednesday afternoon. 

Fowler, also one of IUP's league-best 17 all-conference selections, was dynamic from his edge position along the defensive line in his first season. 

Fowler led the Crimson Hawks with 11.5 tackles-for-loss, 7.0 sacks, and three forced fumbles. His 29 total tackles were also most by any defensive lineman on the team. Fowler's 0.70 sacks per game were ranked eighth in the PSAC and 56th in Division II while his 11.5 TFLs were 10th in conference. 

Fowler had his biggest showing of the year in the season finale victory at West Chester, totaling 3.0 TFLs, 2.5 sacks and a forced fumble. His strip sack with one minute left led to the game-winning touchdown in the 31-24 comeback victory. He was named PSAC West Defensive Athlete of the Week for his efforts.

He was a terror over his last four games, totaling 8.0 TFLs and 7.0 sacks against Slippery Rock, Cal U, Edinboro and West Chester. 

IUP's freshman of the year history
Fowler is the eighth player in program history to earn rookie or freshman of the year honors in the division. Others include running back Justice Evans in 2017, quarterback Lenny Williams in 2015, linebacker Terrance Jackson in 2005, linebacker Kirby Griffin in 2004, defensive back Harold Brister in 1993, receiver Jai Hill in 1988, and Roy Palamara in 1986. 

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