Both before and after the snap, Clifford's contributions were inextricably linked to Penn State's first Rose Bowl victory since 1995.
Both players had impressive performances in their final games as Nittany Lions.
"It's just so fun to be here and be with [my] teammates, who I love and appreciate."
Clifford joins Pitt defensive lineman Deslin Alexandre and Oregon offensive lineman Alex Forsyth as finalists for the award, which annually recognizes a player who shows "exemplary leadership both on and off the field."
The sixth-year senior will leave behind a complicated legacy, and this season adds to that notion.
Did Sean Clifford finish his career in the blue and white as overrated, underrated, or neither?