While the Michigan State Spartans are in Tampa, preparing for the 2012 Outback Bowl, quarterback Kirk Cousins was announced, and presented with the trophy for, the 2011 Lowe's Senior CLASS Award winner, after being named a finalist back in October. Fans have been voting on the award for a couple months now, and on top of the nationwide vote of FBS coaches and media, Cousins has been given the award.
On the field, Cousins holds school records for passing touchdowns (65) and completions, and has the No. 3 mark in the Big Ten record books for completion percentage at 64% - which is also good for first in Michigan State history. He's always looking to make a play and those merits certainly cover that portion of the award.
In a released statement, via the Detroit Free Press, Cousins had this to say about the award:
This award represents its namesake -- class -- and anytime you're associated with something that talks about class, integrity and character, it's very humbling. To even be in the running for this award, with all of the other amazing student-athletes in this country and their impressive accomplishments and credentials, is very special.
The award is given to the student-athlete who best utilizes their stature in athletics to be a leader and helper in the classroom and in the community. It's an acronym that stands for Celebrating Loyalty and Achievement for Staying in School.