Tuskegee University Athletics

Tuskegee University senior linebacker Jewell Ratliff was named Player of the Year (overall) and Defensive Player of the Year on a vote of the coaches and sports information directors from around the conference.

Ratliff leads the conference and is ranked 12th in the country in tackles. The three-time SIAC Defensive Player of the Week has recorded double-digit tackles in eight of 10 games this season. He also is second on the team in interceptions with four, returning one for a touchdown. The senior has two touchdowns this season – the other was a 73-yard return of a blocked field goal against Albany State. He has recorded 118 total tackles (51 solo), and has 12 tackles for loss (41 yards) and two sacks (six yards). Ratliff has recorded three pass breakups, one quarterback hurry and one forced fumble. The senior has recorded double digit tackles in six of eight games against conference competition. Ratliff has recorded 15 or more tackles three different times – Albany State, Winston-Salem State and Central State. He recorded a career-high 19 stops against Central State. The senior is currently ranked 47th in solo tackles (5.3), 70th in tackles for loss (1.3) and 12th in total tackles (11.8) in the NCAA this season.