Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference

ATLANTA — Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference football moves into Week 3 with a full Saturday slate featuring key conference matchups and several challenging nonconference tests. Benedict returns from its bye to visit Fort Valley State in a matchup of recent SIAC contenders, while Albany State travels to Allen and Miles visits Clark Atlanta in conference action. Morehouse heads to Lane and Savannah State travels to Edward Waters as teams look to gain early ground in the SIAC standings. Outside the conference, Kentucky State welcomes Saginaw Valley State for its home opener, Central State travels to Arkansas-Pine Bluff, and Tuskegee heads to Jackson State for the W.C. Gorden Classic. With conference races beginning to take shape and multiple SIAC programs stepping onto larger stages, Week 3 provides another opportunity for the league to build momentum as the 2026 season moves deeper into September.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 19
BENEDICT TIGERS (2-0, 0-0 SIAC) AT FORT VALLEY STATE WILDCATS (1-1, 0-1 SIAC)
Kickoff: 1:00 p.m. ET
Location: Wildcat Stadium — Fort Valley, Ga.
Game: Greek Night, Military Appreciation Night and Blue Out
Weather: Fort Valley, Ga. Forecast
Watch: ESPN+
Live Stats: Fort Valley State Live Stats
Series: Fort Valley State leads, 25-10
Last Meeting: Benedict 14, Fort Valley State 7 — Oct. 11, 2025

THE MATCHUP

Benedict and Fort Valley State return from a Week 2 bye and open SIAC play against one another in Fort Valley in a matchup between programs that have produced an evenly divided series over the past decade.

Benedict enters at 2-0 after opening the season with a 32-10 victory over Johnson C. Smith before defeating Shorter, 24-20, on Sept. 5. Against Shorter, the Tigers carried a 7-0 lead into the fourth quarter before the game erupted for 37 combined fourth-quarter points. Benedict generated 353 yards of total offense, including 156 on the ground and 197 through the air, while possessing the ball for 30:05. 

The Tigers ultimately found the decisive plays when they needed them. Jett Peddy connected with TJ Hatch for a 69-yard touchdown that gave Benedict a 17-7 advantage, and Corion Powers returned an interception 19 yards for a touchdown with 2:58 remaining to stretch the lead to 24-14. Benedict held on after Shorter scored again in the final 90 seconds. 

Fort Valley State enters at 1-1 after a 17-14 road victory over Elizabeth City State followed by a heartbreaking 24-23 loss to Tuskegee in the Port City Classic. The Wildcats controlled much of the Sept. 5 contest and led 13-0 at halftime and 23-7 early in the fourth quarter before Tuskegee rallied for 17 unanswered points, including the game-winning field goal as time expired. 

Despite the loss, Fort Valley State produced 392 yards of offense to Tuskegee's 227, rushed for 213 yards and averaged 6.7 yards per carry. The Wildcats also held advantages in first downs (18-8), third-down conversions (7-of-12 to 1-of-8) and time of possession (34:35 to 25:20). 

The matchup renews a series that dates to 1946 according to Benedict's historical records. Fort Valley State holds a 25-10 advantage through 35 meetings, but the rivalry has been much more balanced recently, with the teams splitting the last 10 meetings. Benedict won last year's game 14-7 in Columbia, while Fort Valley State won the most recent meeting at Wildcat Stadium, 44-20 in 2024. 

Saturday could come down to whether Benedict's defense can contain a Fort Valley State rushing attack that was extremely productive against Tuskegee and whether the Wildcats can prevent Benedict from generating the explosive and defensive scoring plays that helped the Tigers remain unbeaten in their most recent outing.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Benedict — QB Jett Peddy
Peddy protected the football and delivered Benedict's biggest offensive play against Shorter, connecting with TJ Hatch for a 69-yard fourth-quarter touchdown. Through two games, Peddy has thrown for 424 yards and three touchdowns without an interception, averaging 212.0 passing yards per game, which ranks among the SIAC leaders. 

Benedict — WR TJ Hatch
Hatch was Benedict's primary big-play threat against Shorter, accounting for 124 receiving yards and the pivotal 69-yard touchdown. He has emerged as one of the conference's most productive receiving threats through the opening two games. 

Benedict — RB David Smith
Smith powered Benedict's rushing attack against Shorter, averaging 5.7 yards per carry with a long run of 33 yards. His performance helped the Tigers finish with 156 rushing yards and provided balance alongside Benedict's downfield passing attack.

Benedict — DB Corion Powers
Powers may be the most important defensive player to watch in the matchup. He led Benedict with 11 tackles against Shorter and delivered a 19-yard interception return for a touchdown late in the fourth quarter. Through two games, Powers has accumulated 21 tackles (13 solo) and averages 10.5 tackles per game, ranking second in the SIAC. 

Fort Valley State — QB Don Hudson Jr.
Hudson was exceptionally efficient against Tuskegee, completing 81.8 percent of his passes without an interception while adding 37 yards on the ground. Through two games, Hudson has completed 32-of-47 passes for 291 yards with one touchdown and no interceptions, giving him a 68.1 completion percentage and 127.1 efficiency rating. Fort Valley State as a team leads the matchup with a 70.0 percent completion rate through two games. 

Fort Valley State — RB Michael Cabellero
Cabellero was explosive in Fort Valley State's most recent outing, averaging 8.8 yards per carry and breaking a 43-yard run against Tuskegee. He helped spearhead a Wildcats rushing attack that produced 213 yards in that game. Fort Valley State enters Week 3 averaging 156.5 rushing yards per game, fifth-best in the SIAC. 

Fort Valley State — RB Rodrick Payne
Payne gives the Wildcats another productive option out of the backfield. He averaged 7.4 yards per carry against Tuskegee and enters the Benedict matchup with 91 rushing yards, 34 receiving yards and 140 all-purpose yards through two games. His versatility makes him a player Benedict must account for in both the running and passing games. 

Fort Valley State — WR JaTony Pendleton
Pendleton was Hudson's top target against Tuskegee, leading Fort Valley State with five receptions for 75 yards. His performance included a 43-yard reception and a 10-yard touchdown that gave the Wildcats a 23-7 fourth-quarter lead. His ability to stretch the field gives Fort Valley State an important complement to its productive rushing attack.

Fort Valley State — DB Keontay Kidd
Kidd was disruptive around the line of scrimmage in Fort Valley State's most recent game, recording four solo tackles and two tackles for loss. His performance helped a Wildcats defense hold Tuskegee to just 44 rushing yards. That wasn't an isolated performance by the unit: through two games, Fort Valley State leads the SIAC in rushing defense at 80.0 yards allowed per game and total defense at 253.0 yards allowed per game. 

BY THE NUMBERS

25-10 — Fort Valley State's advantage in the series according to Benedict's historical accounting through the 2025 meeting. 
1946 — The first documented meeting in Benedict's series history. Benedict won that matchup, 26-6. 
5-5 — The teams have split their last 10 meetings, dating to 2015. 
14-7 — Benedict's victory over Fort Valley State last season in Columbia. 
44-20 — Fort Valley State's victory the last time Benedict visited Wildcat Stadium in 2024. 
1-10 — Benedict's road record at Fort Valley State in the games documented by Benedict's historical database, underscoring how difficult the trip to Fort Valley has traditionally been. 
353 — Benedict's total offensive yards in its 24-20 victory over Shorter. 
392 — Fort Valley State's total offensive yards against Tuskegee despite the one-point loss. 
213 — Rushing yards by Fort Valley State against Tuskegee on only 32 attempts. 
6.7 — Fort Valley State's average yards per rushing attempt against Tuskegee. 
44 — Rushing yards allowed by Fort Valley State against Tuskegee.
124 — Receiving yards by Benedict's TJ Hatch against Shorter.
11 — Tackles by Benedict's Corion Powers against Shorter, to go along with his 19-yard interception return for a touchdown.
81.8% — Don Hudson's completion percentage against Tuskegee after completing 18 of 22 passes.
34:35 — Fort Valley State's time of possession against Tuskegee, compared with 25:20 for the Golden Tigers. 
0 — Combined interceptions thrown by Benedict's Peddy and Fort Valley State's Hudson in their most recent games.

WHAT TO WATCH

Fort Valley State's ground game against Benedict's front seven. The Wildcats enter the matchup after averaging 6.7 yards per carry and rushing for 213 yards against Tuskegee, with Michael Cabellero and Rodrick Payne combining for 146 yards on only 18 carries. Benedict, meanwhile, held Shorter to 126 rushing yards and 3.9 yards per attempt. If Fort Valley State can reproduce the efficiency it showed in Mobile, the Wildcats could control possession and keep Benedict's offense on the sideline.

The other factor is finishing. Fort Valley State did nearly everything necessary to defeat Tuskegee — outgaining the Golden Tigers 392-227, holding a 16-point fourth-quarter lead and not committing a turnover — but surrendered 17 unanswered points to lose on the game's final play. Benedict experienced the opposite against Shorter: when the game tightened in the fourth quarter, the Tigers produced a 69-yard touchdown pass and a pick-six to secure the victory.
 

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SATURDAY, SEPT. 19
SAGINAW VALLEY STATE CARDINALS (2-1) AT KENTUCKY STATE THOROBREDS (2-1, 2-0 SIAC)
Kickoff: 2:00 p.m. ET
Location: Alumni Stadium — Frankfort, Ky.
Game: Kentucky State Home Opener
Weather: Frankfort, Ky. Forecast
Watch: SIAC Network
Live Stats: Kentucky State Live Stats
Series: First Meeting
Last Meeting: First Meeting

THE MATCHUP

Kentucky State opens the home portion of its 2026 schedule Saturday afternoon when the Thorobreds welcome Saginaw Valley State to Alumni Stadium for the first meeting between the two programs. Both teams enter Week 3 with identical 2-1 overall records, while Kentucky State sits at 2-0 in SIAC play following conference victories over Central State and Clark Atlanta.

The Thorobreds are coming off their most complete performance of the season, a 30-3 road victory over Clark Atlanta. Kentucky State controlled the game on both sides of the ball, producing 453 yards of total offense and 31 first downs while limiting the Panthers to just 156 total yards. The Thorobreds rushed for 172 yards, threw for 281 and converted 10-of-13 third-down opportunities. Defensively, Kentucky State held CAU to 75 rushing yards and 81 passing yards while recording five sacks. 

Kentucky State quarterback Jaun Gainous completed 18-of-29 passes for 229 yards and two touchdowns without an interception, while wide receiver Darius Cyprian turned in one of the top receiving performances in the conference with nine catches for 140 yards and two touchdowns. The Thorobreds also received 56 rushing yards from Jamohn Dyson and 40 yards and a touchdown from Tristan Thomas. 

Saginaw Valley State travels to Frankfort after suffering its first loss of the season, a 35-28 setback at Northwood in the Axe Bowl. The Cardinals' passing game was explosive despite the loss, as quarterback Connor Wolf threw for 351 yards and four touchdowns without an interception. SVSU repeatedly battled back, tying the game at 28 on Wolf's 34-yard touchdown pass to Braden Hill with 4:29 remaining before Northwood answered with the deciding touchdown.

The Cardinals' biggest offensive threat was Hill, who caught six passes for 135 yards and three touchdowns, while JT Webber added an 82-yard touchdown reception. Saginaw Valley State struggled to establish its ground game, however, finishing with only 20 net rushing yards, while Wolf was sacked five times.

That matchup could become one of Saturday's determining factors. Kentucky State registered five sacks and eight tackles for loss against Clark Atlanta, while Saginaw Valley State allowed five sacks against Northwood. Conversely, the Thorobreds will be challenged by an SVSU passing attack that showed the ability to create explosive scoring plays from anywhere on the field.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Saginaw Valley State — QB Connor Wolf
Wolf delivered an outstanding performance despite last week's loss to Northwood, completing 21-of-35 passes for 351 yards and four touchdowns without an interception. His touchdown passes covered 6, 82, 65 and 34 yards, demonstrating the Cardinals' ability to strike vertically. Kentucky State's pass rush will be tasked with preventing Wolf from having time to generate those explosive plays.

Saginaw Valley State — WR Braden Hill
Hill was Wolf's primary target against Northwood, catching six passes for 135 yards and three touchdowns. He scored from 6, 65 and 34 yards, including the game-tying 34-yard touchdown with 4:29 remaining. His matchup with a Kentucky State secondary that allowed only 81 passing yards against Clark Atlanta will be one of the game's most important.

Saginaw Valley State — LB Carrington Pryor
Pryor led the Cardinals defensively against Northwood with 12 total tackles, including eight solo stops, and a tackle for loss. He will be important against a balanced Kentucky State offense that generated 453 yards last week and converted 10-of-13 third downs.

Saginaw Valley State — LB Jalen Edwards
Edwards also totaled 12 tackles against Northwood, finishing with seven solo stops and five assists. His ability to defend the run will be important against a Kentucky State offense that produced 172 rushing yards and averaged 4.9 yards per carry against Clark Atlanta.

Kentucky State — WR Darius Cyprian
Cyprian turned in another outstanding performance against Clark Atlanta, catching nine passes for 140 yards and two touchdowns, including scoring receptions of 25 and 48 yards. Through three games, Cyprian has 25 receptions for 315 yards and three touchdowns, averaging 105.0 receiving yards per game. His production has established him as one of the SIAC's premier receiving threats entering Week 3. 

Kentucky State — QB Jaun Gainous
Gainous efficiently directed the Thorobreds' offense against CAU, completing 18-of-29 passes for 229 yards and two touchdowns without an interception. Through three games, Gainous has completed 55-of-89 passes for 638 yards and six touchdowns with no interceptions, averaging 212.7 passing yards per game. His ability to protect the football has been particularly impressive, as Gainous enters the Saginaw Valley State matchup having thrown 89 passes without an interception this season. 

Kentucky State — RB Tristan Thomas
Thomas continued to provide production in Kentucky State's backfield against Clark Atlanta, rushing six times for 40 yards and a touchdown, an average of 6.7 yards per carry. Through three games, Thomas has rushed for 203 yards and three touchdowns while also contributing as a receiver, highlighted by his 72-yard touchdown reception against Southern. His versatility gives Kentucky State a threat who can impact the game both out of the backfield and in the passing game. 

BY THE NUMBERS

1 — Saturday marks the first football meeting between Saginaw Valley State and Kentucky State.
2-1 — Both programs enter Saturday with identical overall records through the first three games of the season.
2-0 — Kentucky State's record in SIAC play following conference victories over Central State and Clark Atlanta.
453 — Total yards generated by Kentucky State in last week's 30-3 victory over Clark Atlanta. The Thorobreds produced 172 yards rushing and 281 passing. 
156 — Total yards allowed by Kentucky State against Clark Atlanta, including just 75 rushing and 81 passing.
31 — First downs recorded by Kentucky State against Clark Atlanta compared with only 11 by the Panthers. 
10-of-13 — Kentucky State's third-down conversion rate last week, an impressive 76.9 percent. 
351 — Passing yards by Saginaw Valley State quarterback Connor Wolf against Northwood.
4 — Touchdown passes thrown by Wolf last week without an interception.
135 — Receiving yards by Saginaw Valley State's Braden Hill against Northwood.
3 — Touchdown receptions by Hill in the Cardinals' 35-28 loss.
140 — Receiving yards by Kentucky State's Darius Cyprian against Clark Atlanta, coming on nine receptions.
5 — Sacks recorded by Kentucky State against Clark Atlanta.
5 — Sacks allowed by Saginaw Valley State against Northwood, creating a significant matchup between the Thorobreds' pass rush and the Cardinals' pass protection.
20 — Net rushing yards produced by Saginaw Valley State against Northwood.
172 — Rushing yards produced by Kentucky State against Clark Atlanta.
0 — Touchdowns allowed by Kentucky State last week. Clark Atlanta's only points came on a second-quarter field goal.
34:39 — Kentucky State's time of possession against Clark Atlanta. 

WHAT TO WATCH

Kentucky State's pass rush against Connor Wolf.
The numbers create a clear matchup to watch. Kentucky State recorded five sacks against Clark Atlanta, while Saginaw Valley State surrendered five sacks to Northwood. Wolf proved he can still create explosive plays under pressure, throwing four touchdowns and no interceptions, so the Thorobreds will need to pressure him while preventing the deep ball.

Darius Cyprian against the SVSU secondary.
Cyprian is coming off a nine-catch, 140-yard, two-touchdown performance and has developed into Gainous' primary weapon. His ability to create explosive plays downfield could test a Cardinals defense that surrendered 35 points last week.

Can Saginaw Valley State establish the run?
The Cardinals managed only 20 net rushing yards against Northwood. Becoming one-dimensional against a Kentucky State defense coming off five sacks would allow the Thorobreds to focus their attention on Wolf, Hill and the SVSU passing attack.

Kentucky State on third down.
The Thorobreds were exceptional in money situations last week, converting 10-of-13 third downs. If Kentucky State can sustain drives at a similar rate, it can control possession and keep Saginaw Valley State's explosive passing attack on the sideline.

Explosive plays.
Saginaw Valley State's four touchdown passes against Northwood included scores covering 82, 65 and 34 yards. Kentucky State, meanwhile, connected on a 48-yard touchdown from Gainous to Cyprian. Limiting explosive plays could ultimately decide a matchup featuring two offenses capable of stretching the field.

LAST TIME OUT – SAGINAW VALLEY STATE 

Saginaw Valley State suffered its first loss of the season in a back-and-forth Axe Bowl matchup at Northwood.

After falling behind 7-0, the Cardinals tied the game when Connor Wolf found Braden Hill for a six-yard touchdown. Wolf later connected with JT Webber for an 82-yard touchdown, and Hill added touchdown receptions of 65 and 34 yards.

The final Hill touchdown tied the game at 28 with 4:29 remaining. Northwood responded less than two minutes later with a 56-yard touchdown pass to regain the lead, 35-28. 

Wolf finished with 351 passing yards and four touchdowns, while Hill totaled six receptions for 135 yards and three scores. Defensively, Carrington Pryor and Jalen Edwards each recorded 12 tackles.

LAST TIME OUT – KENTUCKY STATE 

Kentucky State dominated Clark Atlanta on both sides of the ball to improve to 2-1 overall and 2-0 in SIAC play.

The Thorobreds scored on their opening possession when Gainous connected with Cyprian for a 25-yard touchdown. Leland Gantz added a 36-yard field goal before Tristan Thomas scored from one yard out to give Kentucky State a 17-3 halftime advantage. Gainous and Cyprian connected again on a 48-yard touchdown in the third quarter, and Denim Johnson's four-yard touchdown pass to Dwaun Futch completed the scoring. 

Kentucky State outgained Clark Atlanta 453-156, held a 31-11 advantage in first downs and converted 10-of-13 third downs. Gainous threw for 229 yards and two touchdowns, Cyprian caught nine passes for 140 yards and two scores, and the Thorobreds' defense recorded five sacks. 

SERIES HISTORY

Saturday marks the first meeting between Kentucky State and Saginaw Valley State.

The matchup brings together programs from the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) and Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) and represents a new nonconference series for both programs.
 

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SATURDAY, SEPT. 19
CENTRAL STATE MARAUDERS (1-2, 1-1 SIAC) AT ARKANSAS-PINE BLUFF GOLDEN LIONS (1-2, 0-1 SWAC)
Kickoff: 4:00 p.m. ET / 3:00 p.m. CT
Location: Simmons Bank Field — Pine Bluff, Ark.
Weather: Pine Bluff, Ark. Forecast
Watch: SWAC TV
Live Stats: Arkansas-Pine Bluff Live Stats
Series: Central State leads, 4-3
Last Meeting: Central State 40, Arkansas-Pine Bluff 35 — Oct. 14, 2017

THE MATCHUP

Central State travels to Pine Bluff for its second matchup against a SWAC opponent this season, looking to build on an offensive breakout in last week's 49-21 victory over Morehouse. Arkansas-Pine Bluff, meanwhile, returns home for the first time this season after a heartbreaking 53-51 double-overtime loss to Alcorn State in the Southern Heritage Classic.

The Marauders produced their most complete offensive performance of the season against Morehouse, piling up 516 yards of total offense, including 269 rushing and 247 passing, while averaging 9.2 yards per play. Quarterback Jackson Wasik accounted for four touchdowns, Isaiah Thompson rushed for 112 yards and a score, and Central State scored 28 second-half points to pull away.

The performance continued a productive start offensively for Central State. Through three games, the Marauders rank third in the SIAC in total offense at 430.3 yards per game and second in rushing offense at 169.3 yards per contest. Central State is also third in scoring at 29.7 points per game. 

Arkansas-Pine Bluff enters Saturday after nearly pulling off a Southern Heritage Classic victory over Alcorn State. The Golden Lions led 38-24 in the fourth quarter before Alcorn rallied to force overtime. After both teams scored touchdowns in the first overtime, UAPB answered another Alcorn touchdown in the second extra period before the Braves converted the decisive two-point conversion for the 53-51 victory. The 104 combined points established a Southern Heritage Classic scoring record. 

UAPB rushed for 258 yards in the loss, with Jaylen Jennings finishing with 98 yards and a touchdown. Quarterback Garrison Davis threw four touchdown passes, while D'Avery Robinson caught four passes for 89 yards and two scores. Defensively, Michael Henderson supplied one of the game's biggest plays with a 100-yard interception return for a touchdown.

The Golden Lions are averaging 33.3 points and 336.3 yards per game, including 167.0 rushing yards per contest. However, UAPB has surrendered 40.7 points and 545.7 yards per game through its first three contests. 

Saturday renews a series that dates to 1972. Central State holds a 4-3 all-time advantage and won the most recent meeting, 40-35 in Pine Bluff in 2017. That victory snapped a nine-game overall losing streak for the Marauders and represented Central State's first win over a Division I opponent since defeating Savannah State in 2005. 

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Central State — QB Jackson Wasik
Wasik delivered his best performance as a Marauder against Morehouse, completing 81.3 percent of his passes and accounting for four touchdowns. Through three games, Wasik has completed 41-of-69 passes for an SIAC-leading 768 yards and six touchdowns, while adding 128 rushing yards and two scores. He leads the SIAC in passing yards per game (256.0), passing efficiency (175.8) and total offense (298.7 ypg). 

Central State — RB Isaiah Thompson
Thompson produced his first 100-yard rushing performance of the season against Morehouse, averaging 7.0 yards per carry and breaking a 49-yard touchdown run. Through three games, Thompson has 250 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 43 carries, averaging 5.8 yards per attempt and 83.3 yards per game, which ranks third in the SIAC. He has also accumulated 270 all-purpose yards. 

Central State — WR Avantae Burt?
Burt led Central State with five receptions against Morehouse and added a 20-yard touchdown catch. Through three games, he has 14 receptions for 249 yards and two touchdowns, averaging an impressive 17.8 yards per reception and 83.0 receiving yards per game. Burt also contributes in the return game and has accumulated 331 all-purpose yards, an average of 110.3 per game. 

Central State — LB Joe Hudson
Hudson was one of Central State's most disruptive defenders last week, recording six tackles, two tackles for loss and a sack. The performance gave him his first sack of the season, while the SIAC statistics also credit Hudson with a fumble recovery through three games. 

Arkansas-Pine Bluff — QB Garrison Davis
Davis accounted for four touchdown passes against Alcorn while also providing a threat with his legs. Through three games, Davis has thrown for 399 yards and six touchdowns and added 51 net rushing yards. His dual-threat ability will be especially important against a Central State defense surrendering 478.0 total yards per game.

Arkansas-Pine Bluff — RB Jaylen Jennings
Jennings came within two yards of a 100-yard performance in the Southern Heritage Classic and scored on an 18-yard run in the second overtime. He leads UAPB with 180 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 37 carries this season, averaging 4.9 yards per attempt and 60.0 yards per game. 

Arkansas-Pine Bluff — WR D'Avery Robinson
Robinson emerged as UAPB's primary big-play receiving threat against Alcorn, catching touchdown passes of 25 and 39 yards. Through three games, Robinson has six receptions for 105 yards and two touchdowns, averaging 17.5 yards per catch. Both of his touchdowns came in last week's breakout performance.

Arkansas-Pine Bluff — LB Danarius Hilliard
Hilliard led the Golden Lions with 12 tackles against Alcorn and enters Saturday as UAPB's leading tackler through three games. He has accumulated 26 tackles, two tackles for loss and half a sack this season and will be central to UAPB's attempt to slow a Central State rushing attack averaging 169.3 yards per game.

Arkansas-Pine Bluff — DB Michael Henderson
Henderson produced one of the most memorable defensive plays of Week 2, returning an interception 100 yards for a touchdown against Alcorn. Through three games, he has 21 tackles, one interception, three pass breakups, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery, giving the Golden Lions a playmaker at multiple levels of the defense.

BY THE NUMBERS

4-3 — Central State's advantage in the all-time series, which dates to 1972. 
40-35 — Central State's victory over Arkansas-Pine Bluff in the most recent meeting on Oct. 14, 2017. 
9 — Years since Central State and Arkansas-Pine Bluff last met.
514 — Total yards produced by Central State in its 2017 victory over UAPB.
49 — Points scored by Central State against Morehouse last week, the Marauders' highest scoring output through three games.
516 — Central State's total offense against Morehouse, including 269 rushing yards and 247 passing yards.
430.3 — Central State's average total offense through three games, which ranks third in the SIAC. 
768 — Passing yards for Central State quarterback Jackson Wasik, the most in the SIAC through three games. 
298.7 — Total offense per game accounted for by Wasik, also the highest average in the SIAC. 
250 — Rushing yards for Isaiah Thompson through three games following his 112-yard performance against Morehouse. 
51 — Points scored by Arkansas-Pine Bluff against Alcorn State in last week's double-overtime Southern Heritage Classic.
104 — Combined points in the UAPB-Alcorn State game, the highest-scoring game in Southern Heritage Classic history. 
258 — Rushing yards produced by Arkansas-Pine Bluff against Alcorn.
4 — Touchdown passes thrown by UAPB quarterback Garrison Davis against Alcorn.
98 — Rushing yards by Jaylen Jennings against Alcorn State.
100 — Yards on Michael Henderson's interception return for a touchdown against Alcorn.
26 — Season tackles for UAPB's Danarius Hilliard through three games.
33.3 — Points per game for Arkansas-Pine Bluff through its first three contests. 
100 — Combined points scored by Central State and Arkansas-Pine Bluff last week, with the Marauders scoring 49 against Morehouse and the Golden Lions putting up 51 against Alcorn State.

WHAT TO WATCH

Central State's surging offense against the UAPB defense
The Marauders enter Pine Bluff after generating 516 yards and 49 points against Morehouse and are now averaging 430.3 yards per game. UAPB, meanwhile, has allowed 545.7 yards and 40.7 points per game through three contests. If Wasik continues his efficient start, Central State could have opportunities to create explosive plays through the air.

The ground game could be equally important
Thompson is coming off a 112-yard performance for Central State, while UAPB rushed for 258 yards against Alcorn behind Jennings, Za'Marion Webber and Davis. Central State has allowed 243.7 rushing yards per game, making UAPB's ability to establish the run one of the biggest concerns for the Marauders. 

Another key will be containing explosive plays
Central State averaged 9.2 yards per play against Morehouse, while UAPB demonstrated against Alcorn that it can score in multiple ways, including four touchdown passes, a 100-yard interception return and a productive rushing attack.

Finally, Central State will be trying to accomplish something it has done before:
go into Pine Bluff and defeat an FCS opponent. The Marauders' 40-35 victory in 2017 remains the most recent meeting between the programs, and Saturday gives Central State another opportunity to test itself against.
 

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SATURDAY, SEPT. 19
ALBANY STATE GOLDEN RAMS (1-2, 1-0 SIAC) AT ALLEN YELLOW JACKETS (2-1, 1-0 SIAC)
Kickoff: 4:00 p.m. ET
Location: Charles F. Bolden Stadium — Columbia, S.C.
Weather: Columbia, S.C. Forecast
Watch: SIAC Network
Live Stats: Allen Live Stats
Series: Albany State leads, 2-1 (Since 2023)
Last Meeting: Albany State 57, Allen 14 — Sept. 27, 2025

THE MATCHUP

A pair of SIAC teams coming off dominant Week 2 victories meet Saturday afternoon in Columbia as defending conference champion Albany State visits Allen in an early-season conference matchup.

Albany State broke into the win column last Saturday with a convincing 49-17 road victory over Savannah State, giving the Golden Rams their first victory under David Bowser and their first conference win of the season. After scoring just seven points in each of their first two games, the Golden Rams erupted for six offensive touchdowns and 435 yards of total offense. Albany State built a 28-0 lead through three quarters before scoring another 21 points in the fourth. 

Quarterback Jeffery Davis turned in his best performance of the season, completing 18-of-21 passes for 230 yards and two touchdowns without an interception. The Golden Rams finished with 291 passing yards as a team, while Kamran Ward provided the biggest play on the ground with a 76-yard fourth-quarter touchdown run. Albany State's defense was equally impressive early, forcing Savannah State to punt on each of its first six possessions and limiting the Tigers to just 11 yards on 20 first-half plays. 

Allen enters Saturday with momentum of its own after rolling past Lane, 43-7, to improve to 2-1 overall and 1-0 in conference play. The Yellow Jackets jumped out to a 30-0 halftime advantage, scored the game's first 36 points and finished with 366 yards of total offense. Allen rushed for 166 yards and passed for 200 while its defense forced two interceptions and kept Lane out of the end zone until the fourth quarter. 

The Yellow Jackets continue to feature one of the SIAC's most productive offenses. Allen enters Week 3 leading the conference in scoring offense at 37.0 points per game and ranks second in total offense at 430.7 yards per game. Albany State, meanwhile, ranks second in the SIAC in total defense, allowing just 286.3 yards per game, and leads the conference in rushing defense among teams that have played three games at 91.3 yards per contest. 

Saturday also gives Allen an opportunity to reverse the direction of a young series that initially belonged to the Yellow Jackets. Allen won the first meeting 39-27 in Albany in 2023, but the Golden Rams have responded emphatically, winning 57-17 at Allen in 2024 and 57-14 in Albany last season. 

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Albany State — QB Jeffery Davis
Davis delivered his most efficient performance of the season in Albany State's first victory, completing 85.7 percent of his passes and throwing two touchdowns without an interception. He helped the Golden Rams generate 435 yards and repeatedly sustain drives against Savannah State. Through three games, Davis has thrown for 431 yards and accounts for 382 yards of total offense after sack yardage is included in the NCAA totals. Albany State as a team is averaging 199.7 passing yards per game. 

Albany State — RB Kamran Ward
Ward supplied Albany State's most explosive rushing play of the season, breaking free for a 76-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter and finishing with 90 yards on only three attempts. The performance gives Ward 90 rushing yards and one touchdown on four carries this season, an average of 22.5 yards per attempt. 

Albany State — WR Exavior Sherrod
Sherrod caught a team-high four passes against Savannah State, including a 17-yard touchdown reception on the final play of the first half that sent Albany State into the locker room with a 14-0 advantage. Sherrod has now scored two receiving touchdowns through three games, tying for the Albany State team lead in touchdowns. 

Albany State — DB Cameron Watts
Watts provided one of Albany State's biggest defensive plays last week, intercepting a Savannah State pass and returning it 34 yards for a touchdown. He also recorded three tackles and a tackle for loss. Watts has two passes defended and one interception this season, with his interception producing Albany State's first defensive touchdown of 2026. He has also been productive in the return game, averaging 14.4 yards on five punt returns. 

Allen — RB Javis Floyd Jr.
Floyd powered Allen's offense against Lane, rushing for 109 yards and three touchdowns as the Yellow Jackets controlled the game on the ground. His scoring runs included touchdowns from five, one and 16 yards. Through three games, Floyd leads the SIAC with 398 rushing yards and six rushing touchdowns, averaging 132.7 yards per game and 5.3 yards per carry. He also leads the conference in scoring with seven total touchdowns and 42 points. 

Allen — QB Brent Upshaw Jr.
Upshaw directed Allen to a 30-0 halftime lead and threw both of his touchdown passes to Deveon Williams. Through three games, Upshaw has completed 46-of-83 passes for 744 yards and six touchdowns, averaging 248.0 passing yards per game, second in the SIAC. His 740 yards of total offense also rank second in the conference at 246.7 per game. 

Allen — WR Deveon Williams
Williams was Allen's leading receiver against Lane, catching seven passes for 103 yards and two touchdowns, including scoring receptions of nine and 18 yards in the opening quarter. Through three games, Williams has 14 receptions for 282 yards and three receiving touchdowns, averaging 20.1 yards per catch and 94.0 receiving yards per game. His 282 receiving yards rank among the conference leaders, while his three touchdown receptions are tied for second in the SIAC. 

Allen — DB Deldric Townsend
Townsend helped preserve Allen's shutout bid by intercepting Cameron Shepherd in the third quarter, giving the Yellow Jackets possession deep in Lane territory. The interception was Townsend's first of the season and contributed to an Allen defense that has recorded three interceptions through three games while allowing opponents to complete just 46.5 percent of their passes. 

BY THE NUMBERS

2-1 — Albany State's advantage in the series since the programs first met in 2023. 
39-27 — Allen's victory in the inaugural meeting on Oct. 14, 2023, in Albany. 
57-17 — Albany State's victory in its first trip to Allen in 2024. 
57-14 — Albany State's victory over Allen last season, the Golden Rams' second consecutive win in the series. 
40 — Albany State's margin of victory over Allen in 2024.
43 — Albany State's margin of victory over Allen in 2025, the largest margin in the three-game series. 
141-70 — Albany State's scoring advantage over Allen across the three previous meetings. 
57 — Points scored by Albany State in each of the last two meetings against Allen.
572 — Total yards generated by Albany State in last season's 57-14 victory, including 285 rushing and 287 passing. 
49 — Points scored by Albany State against Savannah State last week after scoring seven points in each of its first two games. 
435 — Albany State's total offense against Savannah State in Week 2. 
230 — Passing yards by Jeffery Davis against Savannah State while completing 18-of-21 attempts. 
76 — Length of Kamran Ward's fourth-quarter touchdown run against Savannah State. 
43 — Points scored by Allen against Lane last week.
30-0 — Allen's halftime advantage over Lane. 
37.0 — Allen's conference-leading scoring average through three games. 
430.7 — Allen's total offense per game, second-best in the SIAC. 
398 — SIAC-leading rushing yards by Javis Floyd through three games. 
132.7 — Floyd's SIAC-leading rushing average per game.
6 — Rushing touchdowns by Floyd, the most in the conference. 
744 — Passing yards by Brent Upshaw Jr. through three games, second-most in the SIAC. 
282 — Receiving yards by Allen's Deveon Williams through three games.
91.3 — Rushing yards allowed per game by Albany State, the second-best figure in the SIAC overall and best among conference teams that have played three games. 
286.3 — Total yards allowed per game by Albany State, second-best in the conference. 
92 — Combined points scored by Albany State and Allen last week, with the Golden Rams scoring 49 against Savannah State and the Yellow Jackets putting up 43 against Lane. 

WHAT TO WATCH

Allen's high-powered offense against Albany State's defense creates one of the more intriguing statistical matchups of Week 3. The Yellow Jackets lead the SIAC in scoring at 37.0 points per game and rank second in total offense at 430.7 yards per game, while Albany State ranks second in total defense at 286.3 yards allowed per contest. 

The matchup between Javis Floyd and Albany State's rushing defense could be particularly important. Floyd enters Saturday as the SIAC's leading rusher with 398 yards and six rushing touchdowns, including 109 yards and three scores last week. Albany State, however, has surrendered only 274 rushing yards through three games — 91.3 per contest and 2.8 per carry. Something will have to give between the conference's most productive individual runner and one of its stingiest rushing defenses. 

Albany State will also look to determine whether last week's offensive breakthrough is sustainable. The Golden Rams scored only 14 combined points against Florida A&M and Johnson C. Smith before erupting for 49 against Savannah State. Davis' efficiency was a major reason for the turnaround, and another clean performance could be important against an Allen defense that has intercepted three passes this season.

Explosive plays could swing the matchup. Ward broke a 76-yard touchdown run for Albany State last week, while Allen features multiple big-play threats. Williams averages 20.1 yards per reception, Nanders averages 17.8, and Floyd has already rushed for nearly 400 yards. 

Finally, there is the series reversal storyline. Allen won the first meeting in 2023, but Albany State has completely controlled the last two, winning by a combined 97-31 and scoring exactly 57 points in both games. Allen now gets the Golden Rams back in Columbia, where its only previous home meeting in the series ended in a 57-17 Albany State victory. Saturday will show whether the Yellow Jackets' 2-1 start and conference-leading offense are enough to change the recent direction of the series.
 

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MOREHOUSE MAROON TIGERS (0-3, 0-2 SIAC) AT LANE DRAGONS (0-3, 0-1 SIAC)
Kickoff: 5:00 p.m. ET / 4:00 p.m. CT
Location: Lane Field — Jackson, Tenn.
Weather: Jackson, Tenn. Forecast
Watch: SIAC Network
Live Stats: Lane Live Stats
Series: Morehouse leads, 6-2 (since 2010)
Last Meeting: Morehouse 31, Lane 7 — Oct. 18, 2025, Atlanta, Ga. 

THE MATCHUP

Two teams searching for their first victory of the season meet Saturday in Jackson as Morehouse travels to Lane for an SIAC matchup between the Maroon Tigers and Dragons. Both enter Week 3 at 0-3, with Morehouse 0-2 in conference play and Lane 0-1. The SIAC schedule lists kickoff for 5 p.m. ET at Lane. 

Morehouse is coming off a 49-21 loss to Central State at B.T. Harvey Stadium. The Maroon Tigers fell behind 21-0 before Savion Red scored on an 11-yard run late in the second quarter. Morehouse found more offensive rhythm after halftime and added two fourth-quarter touchdowns, but Central State accumulated 516 yards and averaged 9.2 yards per play. Morehouse finished with 318 total yards, including 180 rushing, and scored touchdowns on all three of its red-zone opportunities. 

The Morehouse running game was its biggest positive. PJ Hatter rushed eight times for 70 yards, Tony Roberson III added 52 yards and a touchdown, and Red finished with 43 yards and two touchdowns. Hatter also completed 6-of-7 passes for 53 yards after seeing time at quarterback, while Miles Scott completed 7-of-17 for 85 yards. 

Lane also enters Saturday looking to rebound after a 43-7 home loss to Allen. The Dragons trailed 30-0 at halftime and 36-0 before Cameron Shepherd connected with Antonio Welch for a 67-yard touchdown early in the fourth quarter. Despite the final score, Lane generated 301 yards, including a season-high 188 rushing yards, and actually held a slight advantage in time of possession. 

Running back John Christian III provided Lane's strongest offensive performance of the season, carrying 14 times for 130 yards, including a 44-yard run. Shepherd added 45 rushing yards while throwing for 113 yards and the Dragons' lone touchdown. Lane averaged 5.7 yards per rushing attempt against Allen but was hurt by two interceptions, an 0-for-3 performance on fourth down and 11 penalties for 107 yards. 

Statistically, Saturday presents an opportunity for both offenses. Morehouse ranks sixth in the SIAC in total offense at 347.3 yards per game and fourth in rushing offense at 145.3 yards per game, while Lane averages 215.0 total yards and 119.0 rushing yards. Defensively, Lane has been considerably stronger through three games, ranking fourth in the conference in total defense at 331.7 yards allowed per game. Morehouse is allowing 432.0. 

The matchup also renews a series Morehouse has controlled recently. The Maroon Tigers' records show an 8-game series dating to 2010, with Morehouse holding a 6-2 advantage and riding a four-game winning streak. Morehouse is 3-1 in Jackson and has not lost to Lane since a 31-17 road defeat in 2013. The Maroon Tigers won the subsequent meetings 24-21 in 2016, 24-10 in 2017, 42-20 in 2018 and 31-7 last season.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Morehouse — RB/QB PJ Hatter
Hatter provided a spark in multiple roles last week, averaging 8.8 yards per carry while completing six of seven passes. His 70 rushing yards led Morehouse against Central State. Through two appearances, Hatter has rushed for 76 yards on 11 carries, averaging 6.9 per attempt, and has 131 yards of total offense. 

Morehouse — RB Savion Red
Red accounted for two of Morehouse's three touchdowns last week, scoring from 11 and six yards. His first score put the Maroon Tigers on the board before halftime, while his second capped an 88-yard fourth-quarter drive. Red enters Saturday with 75 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 17 carries, and his three rushing touchdowns are tied for the Morehouse team lead in scoring. 

Morehouse — RB Tony Roberson III
Roberson was another bright spot in Morehouse's ground attack, averaging 6.5 yards per carry and scoring on a 19-yard run in the fourth quarter. Through three games, Roberson has rushed for 102 yards on 25 attempts, giving Morehouse another option in a rushing attack averaging 145.3 yards per game. 

Morehouse — LB Sean Johnson
Johnson led the Maroon Tigers with nine total tackles, including six solo stops, against Central State. He enters Week 3 as one of the SIAC's leading tacklers with 26 stops through three games, an average of 8.7 per game, and has also recorded three tackles for loss. 

Lane — RB John Christian III
Christian produced Lane's best individual offensive performance of the season last week, rushing for 130 yards on 14 carries, an average of 9.3 yards per attempt. His 44-yard first-quarter run immediately moved Lane into Allen territory, although the Dragons eventually turned the ball over on downs. Christian has 186 rushing yards on 34 carries through three games, averaging 5.5 per attempt and 62.0 per game. He also has 89 kickoff-return yards and ranks among the SIAC leaders with 275 all-purpose yards. 

Lane — QB Cameron Shepherd
Shepherd gave Lane a dual-threat element against Allen. He averaged 9.0 yards per rush and threw Lane's only touchdown, a 67-yard strike to Antonio Welch. In two appearances this season, Shepherd has produced 162 yards of total offense, including 113 passing and 49 rushing. 

Lane — WR Antonio Welch
Welch made his lone reception count, hauling in a 67-yard touchdown from Shepherd with 12:02 remaining in the fourth quarter. It was Lane's only score of the afternoon and the Dragons' longest offensive play of the game. 

Lane — DB Cameron Toney
Toney led Lane defensively with eight tackles, including five solo stops, against Allen. He was part of a Dragons defense that limited Allen to 3.8 yards per rushing attempt despite spending much of the afternoon defending a short field. 

BY THE NUMBERS

6-2 — Morehouse's advantage in the documented series with Lane dating to 2010. 
4 — Consecutive Morehouse victories in the series, the longest winning streak by either team in the documented eight-game history. 
3-1 — Morehouse's road record against Lane in Jackson since 2010. 
2013 — The last season Lane defeated Morehouse, a 31-17 victory in Jackson. 
31-7 — Morehouse's victory in last season's meeting in Atlanta. The Maroon Tigers held Lane to 56 passing yards and intercepted two passes. 
313 — Passing yards by Miles Scott in last year's win over Lane, along with three touchdown passes. 
49-6 — Morehouse's victory in the first meeting listed in its series records, on Sept. 11, 2010. It remains the largest margin in the documented series. 
246 — Points scored by Morehouse across the eight documented meetings, an average of 30.75 per game. 
180 — Rushing yards generated by Morehouse against Central State last week. 
3-for-3 — Morehouse's red-zone touchdown efficiency against Central State. 
145.3 — Morehouse's rushing average through three games, fourth-best in the SIAC. 
8 — Rushing touchdowns by Morehouse through three games, the most rushing touchdowns by any SIAC team entering the week. 
0 — Morehouse passing touchdowns through three games despite averaging 202.0 passing yards per game. 
188 — Lane rushing yards against Allen last week, its best offensive component in the 43-7 loss. 
130 — Rushing yards by Lane's John Christian III against Allen on just 14 carries. 
44 — Christian's longest run against Allen. 
5.7 — Lane's yards per rushing attempt against Allen. 
107 — Penalty yards assessed against Lane last week on 11 penalties. 
3.3 — Lane's scoring average through three games, lowest in the SIAC. The Dragons have scored 10 total points. 
331.7 — Total yards allowed per game by Lane, fourth-best in the SIAC. 
432.0 — Total yards allowed per game by Morehouse through three games. 
88.9% — Morehouse's fourth-down conversion rate, 8-of-9, the best mark in the conference. 
29.4% — Lane's third-down conversion rate through three games, compared with 32.6 percent for Morehouse. 

WHAT TO WATCH

Can Morehouse's ground game take control?
The Maroon Tigers rushed for 180 yards and three touchdowns against Central State, with Hatter, Roberson and Red all producing. Morehouse now faces a Lane defense allowing 147.3 rushing yards per game and 3.7 yards per attempt. Morehouse has scored eight rushing touchdowns through three games, while all three of its touchdowns last week came on the ground. 

John Christian III against the Morehouse rushing defense
Could be the matchup that determines whether Lane's offense finally breaks through. Christian exploded for 130 yards last week and enters Saturday averaging 5.5 yards per carry. Morehouse, meanwhile, is allowing 198.0 rushing yards per game and 5.9 yards per attempt, and Central State rushed for 269 yards last week. 

Morehouse needs to find production through the air.
The Maroon Tigers average a respectable 202.0 passing yards per game but remain the only SIAC team without a passing touchdown through three games. Against Central State, Scott and Hatter combined for 138 yards without a touchdown. Lane's defense has allowed 553 passing yards through three games, so Saturday could present an opportunity for Morehouse to add a vertical dimension to an offense that has relied heavily on its running game. 

Lane has to turn rushing production into points.
The Dragons rushed for 188 yards and averaged 5.7 per carry against Allen yet scored only seven points. They reached Allen's 20-yard line on their opening possession but were stopped on fourth down, later surrendered a safety and finished 0-for-3 on fourth down. Lane's 10 points through three games are the fewest in the SIAC. 

Finally, something has to give between two teams desperate to change the direction of their seasons.
Morehouse has produced 21 points in each of its last two games but has allowed 31 and 49. Lane owns the stronger statistical defense but has scored only 10 points all season. The Maroon Tigers also carry a significant historical advantage into Jackson: four straight victories over Lane, a 3-1 road record in the documented series and no loss to the Dragons since 2013. 
 

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SATURDAY, SEPT. 19
MILES GOLDEN BEARS (0-3, 0-1 SIAC) AT CLARK ATLANTA PANTHERS (1-2, 1-1 SIAC)
Kickoff: 6:00 p.m. ET
Location: CAU Panther Stadium — Atlanta, Ga.
Weather: Atlanta, Ga. Forecast
Watch: SIAC Network
Live Stats: Clark Atlanta Live Stats
Series: Miles leads, 10-1 (since 2010)
Last Meeting: Miles 27, Clark Atlanta 20 — Oct. 18, 2025, Fairfield, Ala.

THE MATCHUP

Miles travels to Atlanta on Saturday looking for its first victory of the season when the Golden Bears meet Clark Atlanta in an SIAC matchup at CAU Panther Stadium. Miles enters at 0-3 overall and 0-1 in conference play, while Clark Atlanta is 1-2 overall and 1-1 in the SIAC. The Panthers are playing their second consecutive home game after opening the season with road games at Grambling State and Morehouse. 

Both teams are attempting to rebound from losses last Saturday. Miles dropped a 36-20 decision to Edward Waters in Fairfield despite carrying a 20-15 lead into halftime. The Golden Bears answered an early 15-6 deficit with consecutive second-quarter touchdown drives of 68 and 51 yards, getting rushing scores from Anthony Mix and Roderick Thomas. But Edward Waters scored 21 unanswered points in the second half and held Miles scoreless over the final 30 minutes. 

Miles finished with 248 yards of total offense, including 186 through the air. Quarterback Brinley Vandiver completed 15-of-26 passes for 186 yards and a touchdown, while Thomas led the rushing attack with 43 yards and a score. James Gatewood provided the game's biggest offensive play for the Golden Bears, hauling in a 73-yard touchdown reception in the first quarter. Miles controlled possession for 34:43 and converted three of four fourth-down attempts, but three turnovers — two interceptions and a lost fumble — helped Edward Waters take control. 

Clark Atlanta is also looking for an offensive rebound after a 30-3 home loss to Kentucky State. The Panthers managed 156 yards of total offense and were held without a touchdown. CAU's lone points came on Cedric Oglesby's 40-yard field goal early in the second quarter. Kentucky State outgained Clark Atlanta 453-156, accumulated 31 first downs to CAU's 11 and held the ball for 34:39. 

There were still individual bright spots for the Panthers. Kelan Anderson rushed 14 times for 58 yards, while Dae'Jeaun Dennis added 37 yards on five attempts. Wide receiver Chry'shawn Sellers caught five passes for 70 yards and accounted for nearly 86 percent of CAU's passing yardage. Sellers also contributed 129 yards in the return game — 98 on four kickoff returns and 31 on his lone punt return — giving him 199 all-purpose yards in the loss. 

Saturday also renews a series that has been dominated by Miles for more than a decade. Miles' official series records show the Golden Bears holding a 10-1 advantage in 11 documented meetings since 2010. Clark Atlanta won the first meeting in that span, 35-9 in 2010, but Miles has responded by winning 10 consecutive games in the series. Miles is also a perfect 4-0 in road games against CAU in the documented series. 

The recent meetings have included several decisive Miles victories. The Golden Bears won 55-14 in 2023, then defeated the Panthers twice in 2024 — 49-28 in Atlanta during the regular season and 53-25 in the SIAC Football Championship Game in Fairfield. Last year's matchup was much closer, with Miles rallying for a 27-20 victory after Clark Atlanta led 20-14 at halftime. 

Statistically, the teams enter Saturday closely matched in total offense. Miles averages 269.7 yards per game, while Clark Atlanta averages 258.0. The difference is how they generate those yards: Miles is producing 194.0 passing yards per game but only 75.7 on the ground, while CAU averages 144.7 passing and 113.3 rushing. Defensively, Miles allows 421.3 yards per game and Clark Atlanta 429.3. 

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Miles — QB Brinley Vandiver
Vandiver generated the majority of Miles' offense last Saturday, including the 73-yard touchdown strike to Gatewood that tied the game at 6 in the first quarter. He was sacked four times and threw two interceptions, however, including one late in the fourth quarter as Miles attempted to rally. Through three games, Vandiver has completed 56-of-90 passes (62.2 percent) for 568 yards and two touchdowns, averaging 189.3 passing yards per game. His 607 yards of total offense rank among the SIAC leaders. 

Miles — RB Roderick Thomas
Thomas impacted the game as both a runner and receiver. He scored on an 11-yard run with 17 seconds remaining in the first half to give Miles a 20-15 lead and finished with a team-high six receptions. Thomas enters Week 3 with 67 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 27 attempts and has established himself as one of Miles' primary offensive weapons. 

Miles — WR James Gatewood
Gatewood needed only one reception to change the game last week, getting behind the Edward Waters defense for a 73-yard touchdown from Vandiver. Gatewood has only three receptions through three games, but those catches have produced 91 yards, an average of 30.3 yards per reception, with the 73-yard score representing Miles' longest pass play of the season. 

Miles — DL Tre Jones
Jones was one of the most disruptive players on the field for the Golden Bears last week. He led Miles with six tackles, recorded two tackles for loss totaling 12 yards, added a nine-yard sack and forced a fumble. Jones' sack against Edward Waters gives him one through three games, putting him among the SIAC players averaging 0.33 sacks per contest. 

Clark Atlanta — WR Chry'shawn Sellers 
Even in a difficult offensive afternoon for CAU, Sellers continued to demonstrate why he is one of the SIAC's most dangerous all-purpose threats. He caught five of CAU's six completions for 70 yards, returned four kickoffs for 98 yards and added a 31-yard punt return. Sellers enters Saturday with 13 receptions for 238 yards and three touchdowns, ranking among the conference receiving leaders at 79.3 yards per game. His value extends well beyond receiving: Sellers leads the conference's listed all-purpose performers with 427 yards, or 142.3 per game, after combining receiving, rushing and return production. 

Clark Atlanta — RB Kelan Anderson
Anderson was CAU's leading rusher last week, averaging 4.1 yards per carry while handling 14 attempts. He was particularly effective on the Panthers' second scoring opportunity, helping CAU move methodically into Kentucky State territory. Anderson has rushed for 107 yards on 19 attempts this season, an average of 5.6 yards per carry, and has scored one touchdown. 

Clark Atlanta — RB Dae'Jeaun Dennis
Dennis averaged 7.4 yards per carry last week, highlighted by a 22-yard run. He remains CAU's leading rusher through three games with 164 yards on 32 carries, averaging 5.1 per attempt and 54.7 yards per game. Together, Dennis and Anderson give the Panthers a backfield tandem averaging more than five yards per carry individually. 

Clark Atlanta — LB Eric Searcy
Searcy was extremely active against Kentucky State, leading Clark Atlanta with nine tackles, including eight solo stops, while adding a tackle for loss and a pass breakup. Through three games, Searcy has accumulated 20 tackles, an average of 6.7 per game, placing him among the SIAC's more productive defenders entering Saturday. 

BY THE NUMBERS

10-1 — Miles' record against Clark Atlanta in the documented series dating to 2010. 
10 — Consecutive Miles victories over Clark Atlanta. CAU won the first documented meeting in 2010, and Miles has not lost to the Panthers since. 
4-0 — Miles' road record against Clark Atlanta in the documented series. 
19-16 — Miles' first victory during its current 10-game winning streak, coming in Atlanta on Oct. 8, 2011. 
55-14 — Miles' victory over CAU in 2023, the Golden Bears' largest margin of victory in the documented series. 
28-27 — Miles' victory in Atlanta in 2018, the closest result during the Golden Bears' 10-game series winning streak. 
49-28 — Miles' victory in the most recent regular-season meeting played in Atlanta, on Oct. 19, 2024. 
53-25 — Miles' victory over Clark Atlanta in the 2024 SIAC Football Championship Game, the second meeting between the programs that season. 
27-20 — The final score of last year's meeting, won by Miles in Fairfield. 
371 — Total points scored by Miles across the 11 documented meetings with Clark Atlanta, an average of 33.7 per game. 
73 — Yards on Vandiver's touchdown pass to James Gatewood last week, Miles' longest offensive play against Edward Waters. 
34:43 — Miles' time of possession against Edward Waters, more than nine minutes longer than the Tigers possessed the ball. 
3-of-4 — Miles' fourth-down conversion performance against Edward Waters. 
3 — Miles turnovers against Edward Waters: two interceptions and one lost fumble. 
199 — All-purpose yards by Clark Atlanta's Chry'shawn Sellers against Kentucky State — 70 receiving, 98 on kickoff returns and 31 on a punt return. 
427 — Sellers' all-purpose yards through three games, an SIAC-leading 142.3 yards per game among the conference's listed leaders. 
238 — Sellers' receiving yards through three games on 13 catches, with three touchdowns. 
164 — Rushing yards by CAU's Dae'Jeaun Dennis through three games, sixth among the conference's listed rushing leaders. 
568 — Passing yards by Miles quarterback Brinley Vandiver through three games. He is completing 62.2 percent of his passes. 
269.7 — Miles' total offense per game through three contests. 
258.0 — Clark Atlanta's total offense per game. 
75.7 — Miles' rushing yards per game, compared with CAU's 113.3. 
43.3 — Points allowed per game by Miles through three games, the second-highest figure in the SIAC. 
33.3 — Points allowed per game by Clark Atlanta. 

WHAT TO WATCH

Can Miles extend a decade of dominance in the series?
The Golden Bears have won 10 straight against Clark Atlanta after losing the first documented meeting in 2010. Even more significant for Saturday, Miles is 4-0 in road games against the Panthers during that span, including a 49-28 victory at CAU Panther Stadium in 2024. The historical edge is substantial, but Miles enters this year's matchup still searching for its first win. 

Can Clark Atlanta get Sellers involved early and often?
Sellers was essentially CAU's passing offense against Kentucky State, accounting for 70 of the Panthers' 81 receiving yards. He has 238 receiving yards and three touchdowns through three games and also enters Saturday averaging 142.3 all-purpose yards. Miles has surrendered 252.7 passing yards per game, so getting Sellers isolated in space could be one of CAU's best opportunities to create explosive plays. 

Miles has to turn possession into production.
The Golden Bears held the football for 34:43 against Edward Waters and put together two second-quarter touchdown drives lasting more than six minutes each. But Miles managed only 248 yards, averaged 3.9 yards per play and committed three turnovers. Protecting the football could be especially important in a road game where both teams are looking for momentum. 

CAU's running backs against the Miles front could be a major matchup. Dennis averages 5.1 yards per carry, Anderson 5.6, and Clark Atlanta averages 113.3 rushing yards per game. Miles enters Saturday allowing 168.7 rushing yards per game and 4.6 yards per attempt. If CAU can establish Dennis and Anderson, it could take pressure off Jackson and prevent the Panthers from facing the obvious passing situations that proved costly last week. 

Can the Panthers protect Xzavier Jackson?
Kentucky State sacked Jackson six times last week, contributing heavily to CAU finishing with only 81 net passing yards. Jackson was officially charged with minus-23 rushing yards because of those losses. Miles generated two sacks against Edward Waters, including disruptive performances from Tre Jones and Javontae Cooper, who each recorded a sack. 

Finally, Saturday presents an important early-season swing game for both programs. Clark Atlanta can move above .500 in SIAC play and snap a 10-game losing streak against Miles. The Golden Bears can earn their first victory, move to 1-1 in conference play and continue one of the most one-sided active series trends between the two programs. With both defenses allowing more than 420 yards per game, the matchup may ultimately come down to which offense can capitalize on opportunities and avoid the drive-killing mistakes that hurt both teams last week.
 

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SATURDAY, SEPT. 19
SAVANNAH STATE TIGERS (0-2, 0-1 SIAC) AT EDWARD WATERS TIGERS (2-1, 1-0 SIAC)
Kickoff: 6:00 p.m. ET
Location: Nathaniel Glover Community Field & Stadium — Jacksonville, Fla.
Game: Military Appreciation / First Responders Day
Weather: Jacksonville, Fla. Forecast
Watch: SIAC Network
Live Stats: Edward Waters Live Stats
Series: Savannah State leads, 6-3 (since 2008)
Last Meeting: Edward Waters 41, Savannah State 14 — Aug. 30, 2025, Savannah, Ga. 

THE MATCHUP

Savannah State travels to Jacksonville on Saturday searching for its first victory of the season when the Tigers meet Edward Waters in SIAC action at Nathaniel Glover Community Field & Stadium. Savannah State enters 0-2 overall and 0-1 in conference play, while Edward Waters is 2-1 overall and 1-0 in the SIAC after opening conference play with a road victory at Miles. Saturday is Edward Waters' Military Appreciation/First Responders Day. 

The teams arrive in Jacksonville following dramatically different Week 2 results. Savannah State suffered a 49-17 home loss to Albany State last Saturday at Theodore A. Wright Stadium. The Golden Rams built a 28-0 advantage through three quarters and stretched the lead to 35-0 on a 34-yard interception return just eight seconds into the fourth quarter. Savannah State finally broke through with Joshua Woodley's 41-yard field goal, then scored twice in the final five minutes on touchdown passes from RaShawn Truell to Trenton Rhodes and Cinsere Clark. 

Savannah State finished with 230 yards of offense, but only 19 came on the ground. The Tigers were held to 0.9 yards per rushing attempt while Albany State produced 439 total yards, including 291 through the air. Savannah State was also limited to 13 first downs and converted just 3-of-11 third-down opportunities. 

Despite the final margin, Savannah State showed some explosiveness late. Truell came off the bench and completed 9-of-17 passes for 171 yards and two touchdowns, including a 68-yard scoring strike to Rhodes. Rhodes finished with two receptions for 72 yards and a touchdown while also returning six kickoffs for 122 yards, giving him 194 all-purpose yards. Rodney Hill led the ground game with 30 yards on six carries, including a 24-yard run. 

Defensively, Savannah State generated pressure despite Albany State's offensive success. The Tigers recorded four sacks and eight tackles for loss. Adonis Brazil delivered his best performance of the season with six tackles, two tackles for loss and two sacks, while Reginald Troutman and Kaiden Stanciel each recorded eight tackles. Akeem White added a sack, and Reico Collins and Davion Foster combined for another. 

Edward Waters, meanwhile, enters Saturday with momentum following a 36-20 victory at Miles. EWU trailed 20-15 at halftime before shutting out the Golden Bears in the second half and scoring 21 unanswered points. Quarterback Tavion Faulk connected with Izaiah Jean-Baptiste on a 40-yard touchdown in the third quarter, found Xavier Irvin for a 45-yard score in the fourth and Camren Stewart closed the scoring with a 28-yard touchdown run. 

Faulk produced one of the strongest quarterback performances in the SIAC last week, completing 18-of-30 passes for 250 yards and four touchdowns. Three of those scores went to Izaiah Jean-Baptiste, who caught nine passes for 144 yards and touchdowns of 14, 15 and 40 yards. Johntarrious Thomas led the rushing attack with 66 yards on 18 carries as Edward Waters finished with 383 yards of total offense — 250 passing and 133 rushing. 

Edward Waters' defense also turned in a disruptive performance, producing 11 tackles for loss, four sacks, two interceptions and a forced fumble. Linebacker Trevon French was everywhere, registering 13 tackles, two tackles for loss, a half-sack, a pass breakup and a quarterback hurry. Darius Johnson recorded 2.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks, while Javon Miller and Jordan Allen each added a sack. 

Saturday renews a series in which Savannah State holds a 6-3 advantage in nine documented meetings dating to 2008. The series began with Edward Waters defeating Savannah State 26-21 in 2008, but SSU responded by winning five consecutive meetings from 2009 through 2022. That run included victories of 45-24 in 2009, 42-35 in 2012, 49-19 in 2019, 24-0 in 2021 and 31-28 in 2022. 

The series has become much more competitive since Edward Waters joined the SIAC. The 2022 meeting in Jacksonville was decided by three points, 31-28, when Savannah State recovered a late EWU fumble to preserve the victory. Edward Waters answered in 2023 with a 26-25 win in Savannah, before Savannah State went back to Jacksonville in 2024 and rallied for a 27-20 victory. 

Edward Waters then delivered the most decisive result of the recent series last season, defeating Savannah State 41-14 in Savannah. That victory snapped a Savannah State win in Jacksonville from the previous season and gave EWU wins in two of the last three meetings. Savannah State still owns a 3-1 road record in the documented series, including victories in Jacksonville in 2019, 2022 and 2024. 

The statistical contrast entering Saturday is significant. Edward Waters ranks among the SIAC's most productive offenses at 346.7 yards and 30.7 points per game, including a conference-best-tier passing attack producing 251.0 yards per contest. Savannah State averages 173.5 yards and 8.5 points per game, with only 47.0 rushing yards per contest through its first two games. 

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Savannah State — QB RaShawn Truell
Truell provided Savannah State's offensive spark in the second half last Saturday. He threw both of the Tigers' touchdowns, connecting with Rhodes from 68 yards and Clark from 17 yards. The 68-yard touchdown came with 4:38 remaining, and Truell later directed a nine-play, 75-yard touchdown drive that ended with his scoring pass to Clark. If Savannah State turns to Truell for an expanded role Saturday, he will face an Edward Waters defense that already has four interceptions through three games. 

Savannah State — WR/KR Trenton Rhodes
Rhodes was Savannah State's biggest explosive-play threat against Albany State. His 68-yard touchdown reception was SSU's longest offensive play, and he handled every kickoff return, averaging 20.3 yards per return. Conference statistics make his impact even clearer: Rhodes has accumulated 333 all-purpose yards through two games — 166.5 per game — the second-highest average among the SIAC's listed leaders. His 261 kickoff-return yards lead the conference listing, while his two receptions have produced 72 yards and a touchdown. 

Savannah State — DL Adonis Brazil
Brazil was Savannah State's most disruptive defensive player last Saturday, recording five solo tackles, six total stops, two tackles for loss and two sacks. Those two sacks also moved him to the top of the conference leaderboard: Brazil enters Saturday with two sacks through two games, averaging 1.0 per contest, tied for the highest total among the SIAC's listed sack leaders. His matchup against Faulk could be crucial, particularly because Edward Waters has surrendered six sacks through three games. 

Savannah State — LB Reginald Troutman
Troutman was one of Savannah State's most active defenders against Albany State, totaling five solo stops, three assists and a tackle for loss. Through two games he has 12 tackles, including seven solo stops, averaging six tackles per game — placing him among the SIAC's listed tackling leaders. With Edward Waters capable of attacking through both Faulk's passing and Johntarrious Thomas' running, Troutman's ability to defend sideline-to-sideline will be important.

Edward Waters — QB Tavion Faulk
Faulk enters Week 3 coming off a four-touchdown performance in which he accounted for every Edward Waters touchdown through the first 48-plus minutes. His touchdown passes covered 14, 15, 40 and 45 yards, showing EWU's ability to attack at multiple levels. For the season, Faulk has completed 49-of-86 passes for 696 yards and seven touchdowns against only one interception. He averages 232.0 passing yards per game and ranks third among the SIAC's listed passers in yardage. His 726 yards of total offense are also third among the conference's listed leaders. 

Edward Waters — WR Izaiah Jean-Baptiste
Few players in the conference had a bigger Week 2 than Jean-Baptiste. He caught touchdown passes of 14, 15 and 40 yards and accounted for 144 of EWU's 250 receiving yards. He enters Saturday with 20 receptions for 348 yards and five touchdowns, averaging 116.0 receiving yards per game. That places him second among the SIAC's listed receiving leaders in yards per game, while his five receiving touchdowns are tied for the conference scoring lead among receivers. 

Edward Waters — RB Johntarrious Thomas
Thomas gave Edward Waters balance against Miles, carrying 18 times for 66 yards with a long of 20. He has rushed for 139 yards on 36 attempts through three games, averaging 46.3 yards per contest and 3.9 per carry. The matchup could favor EWU's ground game: Savannah State enters Saturday allowing 285.5 rushing yards per game and 7.0 yards per attempt, the highest figures in the conference. 

Edward Waters — LB Trevon French
French was the centerpiece of an Edward Waters defense that shut Miles out after halftime. He recorded 13 tackles — seven solo and six assisted — two tackles for loss, a half-sack, one pass breakup and a quarterback hurry. The performance continued an outstanding start: French leads the SIAC's listed tacklers with 38 total tackles through three games, an average of 12.7 per contest. 

BY THE NUMBERS

6-3 — Savannah State's record against Edward Waters in the nine documented meetings dating to 2008. 
3-1 — Savannah State's road record in the documented series. 
5 — Consecutive Savannah State victories over Edward Waters from Oct. 31, 2009 through Sept. 10, 2022, the longest winning streak in the series. 
41-14 — Edward Waters' victory in the most recent meeting on Aug. 30, 2025 in Savannah. It was EWU's largest victory in the nine documented meetings. 
49-19 — Savannah State's victory at Edward Waters in 2019, SSU's largest margin of victory in the series. 
26-25 — Edward Waters' one-point victory in Savannah in 2023, the closest game in series history. 
31-28 — Savannah State's victory in Jacksonville in 2022, its smallest margin of victory in the series. 
27-20 — Savannah State's victory in Jacksonville in 2024, the last time these teams played at Edward Waters. 
2-of-3 — Edward Waters has won two of the last three meetings after Savannah State won five straight from 2009-22. 
36 — Points scored by Edward Waters last week at Miles, including 21 unanswered in the second half. 
4 — Touchdown passes thrown by Tavion Faulk against Miles. 
3 — Touchdown receptions by Izaiah Jean-Baptiste against Miles. 
144 — Jean-Baptiste's receiving yards last week, giving him 348 through three games. 
38 — Total tackles by Trevon French through three games, the highest total among the SIAC's listed defensive leaders. 
11.0 — Tackles for loss recorded by Edward Waters against Miles. 
17 — Savannah State's fourth-quarter points against Albany State after being held scoreless through the first three quarters. 
194 — All-purpose yards by Trenton Rhodes against Albany State: 72 receiving and 122 on kickoff returns. 
333 — Rhodes' all-purpose yards through two games, an average of 166.5 per contest, second among the SIAC's listed leaders. 
68 — Yards on Truell's touchdown pass to Rhodes against Albany State, Savannah State's longest offensive play of the game. 
2.0 — Sacks by Savannah State's Adonis Brazil against Albany State. He has two through two games and averages one per contest. 
41 — Yards on Joshua Woodley's fourth-quarter field goal against Albany State. Woodley is 1-for-1 on field goals this season. 
346.7 — Edward Waters' total offense per game, compared with Savannah State's 173.5. 
251.0 — Edward Waters' passing yards per game through three contests.
30.7 — Points per game by Edward Waters, second in the SIAC. 
8.5 — Savannah State's points per game through two contests. 
47.0 — Savannah State's rushing yards per game through two games. 
68.0 — Points per game allowed by Savannah State through its first two contests. 
4 — Interceptions by the Edward Waters defense through three games, the most in the SIAC. 

WHAT TO WATCH

Can Savannah State slow Faulk-to-Jean-Baptiste?
That is the most obvious matchup entering Saturday. Faulk has thrown for 696 yards and seven touchdowns through three games, while Jean-Baptiste already has 348 receiving yards and five touchdowns. Last week alone, they connected nine times for 144 yards and three scores. Savannah State has surrendered 247.5 passing yards per game, and allowing explosive plays against Albany State proved costly. 

Does RaShawn Truell's fourth-quarter performance earn him a larger role?
Savannah State used multiple quarterbacks against Albany State, but Truell provided the Tigers' best offensive stretch. He produced 171 passing yards and two touchdowns on only 17 attempts and led consecutive 75-yard touchdown drives late in the fourth quarter. Establishing consistency at quarterback could be essential against an Edward Waters defense that has intercepted four passes through three games.

Savannah State has to find a running game.
The Tigers managed only 19 rushing yards on 21 attempts against Albany State and average just 47.0 yards on the ground through two games. Rodney Hill showed some promise with 30 yards on six carries, including a 24-yard gain, but Savannah State cannot afford to become one-dimensional against French and an aggressive EWU front.

Can Brazil and the SSU pass rush disrupt Faulk?
Savannah State's defense produced four sacks last week despite surrendering 439 yards. Brazil accounted for two of those sacks and is tied atop the conference leaderboard with two through two games. Edward Waters has allowed six sacks this season. If Savannah State can create pressure without committing extra defenders, it could help the Tigers contain Jean-Baptiste and Xavier Irvin downfield. 

Edward Waters has an opportunity to establish the run.
The biggest statistical concern for Savannah State is a defense allowing 285.5 rushing yards per game and seven yards per carry. Johntarrious Thomas carried 18 times last week and gives EWU a physical option to complement Faulk's passing attack. If the Tigers have to commit additional defenders to the box, it could create even more favorable matchups for Jean-Baptiste and Irvin outside.

Can Savannah State flip the recent series momentum?
SSU still owns the overall 6-3 advantage and has historically played well in Jacksonville, going 3-1 in the documented road meetings. But Edward Waters has won two of the last three, including a 41-14 victory in Savannah last season. For Savannah State, Saturday offers an opportunity to earn its first victory, even its SIAC record at 1-1 and continue its historical road success against EWU. For Edward Waters, a win would move the Tigers to 3-1 overall and 2-0 in conference play while giving the program consecutive victories over Savannah State for the first time in the documented series.
 

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SATURDAY, SEPT. 19
TUSKEGEE GOLDEN TIGERS (1-1, 1-0 SIAC) AT JACKSON STATE TIGERS (2-0, 0-0 SWAC)
Kickoff: 6:00 p.m. CT / 7:00 p.m. ET
Location: Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium — Jackson, Miss.
Game: W.C. Gorden Classic
Weather: Jackson, Miss. Forecast
Watch: SWAC TV
Live Stats: Jackson State Live Stats
Series: Jackson State leads, 3-2
Last Meeting: Jackson State 30, Tuskegee 0 — Sept. 13, 2025, Jackson, Miss. 

THE MATCHUP

Tuskegee returns from its Week 2 bye and heads to Jackson, Mississippi, for a meeting with undefeated Jackson State in the W.C. Gorden Classic at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium. The Golden Tigers enter at 1-1 overall and 1-0 in the SIAC, while Jackson State is 2-0 after victories over Tennessee State and Edward Waters. Both teams were idle last weekend, making their September 5 contests their most recent action. 

Tuskegee's last appearance produced one of the most dramatic finishes of the young SIAC season. The Golden Tigers rallied from a 23-7 fourth-quarter deficit to defeat Fort Valley State 24-23 in Mobile. Fort Valley State controlled much of the contest and carried a 13-0 lead into halftime before Tuskegee's passing game began producing explosive plays. Bryson McGrew connected with EJ Hall for a 52-yard touchdown in the third quarter before the Golden Tigers erupted in the fourth. 

After Fort Valley State stretched its advantage to 23-7, McGrew hit Ean Nation for a 74-yard touchdown just 18 seconds later. He then found Rashad Wilson Jr. for a 39-yard touchdown with eight minutes remaining, cutting the deficit to 23-21. Tuskegee's special teams delivered the final turning point when Joshua Fuentes blocked a Fort Valley State punt, setting the Golden Tigers up in Wildcats territory. Lorcan Ryans then connected on a 35-yard field goal as time expired, completing the comeback. 

Tuskegee's ability to generate explosive passes helped overcome a significant statistical disadvantage. Fort Valley State outgained the Golden Tigers 392-227, including a 213-44 advantage on the ground, and held an 18-8 edge in first downs. But Tuskegee averaged 26.1 yards per completion, did not throw an interception and made the critical plays late. 

Jackson State enters the matchup after an even more explosive performance in its last outing. The Tigers overwhelmed Edward Waters 66-14, scoring the game's first 38 points and rolling up 704 yards of total offense. JSU produced 388 yards through the air and 316 on the ground, averaged nine yards per play, converted eight of 10 third downs and scored on all eight of its red-zone opportunities. 

Quarterback Jared Lockhart delivered a career performance, completing 17 passes for 388 yards and four touchdowns without an interception. Nate Rembert provided the biggest plays in the receiving game with four receptions for 179 yards, while Nate Blount IV rushed for 67 yards and two touchdowns. Jackson State's depth was also evident on the ground, where the Tigers accumulated 316 yards despite no individual runner reaching 70. 

Jackson State has been remarkably balanced through two games. The Tigers have accumulated 1,106 yards of total offense, including 610 through the air and 496 on the ground, while averaging 553.0 yards per game. Lockhart has completed 34-of-51 passes for 610 yards, five touchdowns and no interceptions, while Blount has rushed for 168 yards and two scores. 

Saturday also brings Tuskegee back to the site of one of its most difficult performances from last season. Jackson State defeated the Golden Tigers 30-0 in the 2025 W.C. Gorden Classic, limiting Tuskegee to just 109 yards of total offense — 24 rushing and 85 passing — and seven first downs. JSU, meanwhile, generated 522 yards, including 266 rushing and 256 passing. 

The rematch therefore presents Tuskegee with an opportunity to demonstrate how far its offense has progressed. The Golden Tigers have already shown an ability to create game-changing plays through the air, while Jackson State enters with one of the most productive offenses Tuskegee will see this season.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Tuskegee — QB Bryson McGrew
McGrew was the catalyst for Tuskegee's comeback in its most recent game, throwing touchdown passes of 52, 74 and 39 yards. His dual-threat ability has also shown up in the season totals. McGrew has rushed for 90 yards on 12 carries with a touchdown, averaging 7.5 yards per attempt, and has accounted for 476 yards of total offense through two games. His ability to create explosive plays will be critical against a Jackson State defense that held Tuskegee to 109 yards last season. 

Tuskegee — WR Ean Nation
Nation delivered the play that ignited Tuskegee's fourth-quarter comeback, taking McGrew's pass 74 yards for a touchdown immediately after Fort Valley State had extended its lead to 23-7. Through two games, Nation leads Tuskegee with 142 receiving yards on six receptions, averaging an impressive 23.7 yards per catch and 71.0 receiving yards per game. 

Tuskegee — WR/KR Rashad Wilson Jr.
Wilson caught McGrew's 39-yard fourth-quarter touchdown that pulled Tuskegee within 23-21 against Fort Valley State. He also gives the Golden Tigers a threat in the return game. Wilson has 103 yards on four kickoff returns, averaging 25.8 yards per return, and has accumulated 168 all-purpose yards through two games. 

Tuskegee — LB Masiah Wells
Wells enters Saturday as Tuskegee's leading tackler in the conference statistics, recording 14 stops — six solo and eight assisted — through two games, an average of 7.0 per contest. Against an explosive Jackson State offense that can attack both on the ground and through the air, Wells will be central to Tuskegee's effort to prevent the Tigers from creating the kind of sustained drives and explosive plays they produced against Edward Waters.

Jackson State — QB Jared Lockhart
Lockhart enters Saturday coming off the best performance of his Jackson State career. He threw for career highs of 388 yards and four touchdowns against Edward Waters and was named the game's offensive MVP. Through two games, Lockhart has completed 34-of-51 passes for 610 yards, five touchdowns and no interceptions, averaging 305.0 passing yards per game with a 199.49 efficiency rating. 

Jackson State — WR Nate Rembert
Rembert was Jackson State's premier big-play target against Edward Waters, producing 179 yards on only four receptions, including catches of 53 and 51 yards. He leads JSU through two games with 188 receiving yards on seven catches, averaging 26.9 yards per reception and 94.0 yards per game. 

Jackson State —  RB Nate Blount IV
Blount scored twice in Jackson State's 66-point performance and has established himself as the Tigers' leading rusher. He enters Saturday with 168 yards on 28 carries, averaging exactly 6.0 yards per attempt and 84.0 yards per game. His production gives Jackson State a legitimate ground-game complement to Lockhart's passing attack.

Jackson State — DB Swipe Marshall
Marshall earned defensive MVP honors in Jackson State's victory over Edward Waters after recording five tackles. Through two games he has eight total tackles, a tackle for loss, a pass breakup and a quarterback hurry. His ability to limit explosive passes will be particularly important against a Tuskegee offense whose three touchdowns against Fort Valley State came from 52, 74 and 39 yards.

BY THE NUMBERS

3-2 — Jackson State's lead in the complete historical series after its victory last season. Tuskegee's 2025 game notes documented the series as tied 2-2 entering that matchup. 
1912 — The first meeting between the programs, a 14-0 Tuskegee victory. 
80 — Approximate number of years between the first meeting in 1912 and the renewal of the series in 1992. 
30-0 — Jackson State's victory over Tuskegee last season in the W.C. Gorden Classic. 
2 — Shutouts recorded by Jackson State in the series — 30-0 in 1992 and 30-0 in 2025. 
33-7 — Tuskegee's victory over Jackson State in 2017, the Golden Tigers' most recent win in the series. 
26 — Tuskegee's margin of victory in 2017, its largest in the series.
30 — Jackson State's largest margin of victory in the series, accomplished in both 1992 and 2025. 
109 — Tuskegee's total offensive yards against Jackson State last season.
522 — Jackson State's total offensive yards against Tuskegee in that same game. 
266-24 — Jackson State's advantage in rushing yards in the 2025 meeting. 
26-7 — Jackson State's advantage in first downs against Tuskegee last season. 
16 — Points Tuskegee overcame in the fourth quarter of its most recent game, rallying from 23-7 to defeat Fort Valley State 24-23. 
183 — McGrew's passing yards against Fort Valley State.
3 — Touchdown passes by McGrew against Fort Valley State.
52 / 74 / 39 — Yards on Tuskegee's three touchdown passes in its victory over Fort Valley State. 
26.1 — Tuskegee's yards per completion against Fort Valley State, the highest single-game mark listed among SIAC teams through Week 2. 
46.8 — Tuskegee punter Jaleel Shakir's average through two games, including five punts of at least 50 yards. 
704 — Jackson State's total offense against Edward Waters.
388 — Lockhart's career-high passing yards against Edward Waters.
316 — Jackson State's rushing yards against Edward Waters. 
66 — Points scored by Jackson State in its most recent game.
38-0 — Jackson State's halftime advantage against Edward Waters. 
179 — Rembert's receiving yards on only four catches against Edward Waters.
9.0 — Jackson State's average yards per offensive play against Edward Waters. 
610 — Lockhart's passing yards through two games.
0 — Interceptions thrown by Lockhart on 51 attempts this season. 
496 — Jackson State's rushing yards through two games, an average of 248.0 per contest. 
58.3% — Jackson State's third-down conversion rate through two games, converting 14-of-24 opportunities. 

WHAT TO WATCH

Can Tuskegee generate the explosive passes that fueled its comeback against Fort Valley State?
The Golden Tigers did not consistently sustain drives in their most recent game, but they didn't need to once McGrew began attacking vertically. Tuskegee's three touchdown receptions covered 52, 74 and 39 yards, and Nation is averaging 23.7 yards per catch this season. Against a talented Jackson State defense, explosive plays may represent Tuskegee's clearest avenue to changing the complexion of the game. 

Stopping Jackson State's balance may be Tuskegee's biggest challenge.
Lockhart is averaging 305 passing yards per game, while Jackson State is simultaneously producing 248 rushing yards per contest. That prevents defenses from committing entirely to either phase. Blount's 6.0 yards per carry demand attention in the box, while Lockhart, Rembert and Jabari Jones can punish defenses downfield.

Tuskegee has to be considerably better against the run.
Fort Valley State rushed for 213 yards and averaged 6.7 yards per attempt against the Golden Tigers. Jackson State now presents an even more difficult challenge after rushing for 316 yards against Edward Waters. Tuskegee cannot afford a repeat of last season's meeting, when JSU controlled the matchup with a 266-24 rushing advantage. 

Can Tuskegee's special teams create another game-changing moment? The Golden Tigers' comeback against Fort Valley State was completed because Fuentes blocked a late punt and Ryans converted the game-winning field goal. Tuskegee also has one of the SIAC's strongest punting weapons in Shakir, who averages 46.8 yards per punt with five kicks of 50-plus yards. In a matchup where field position could be crucial, Tuskegee may need another significant contribution from its special teams.

Jackson State's third-down efficiency could determine whether Tuskegee's defense can get off the field.
JSU has converted 58.3 percent of its third downs through two games and was particularly efficient against Edward Waters. For Wells and the Tuskegee defense, limiting first- and second-down gains will be essential to prevent Lockhart from repeatedly operating in manageable third-down situations.

How much has changed since last year's 30-0 result?
That may be the defining storyline. Jackson State held Tuskegee to 109 total yards and seven first downs last season while producing 522 yards of its own. Tuskegee enters the rematch with a quarterback who has already demonstrated the ability to strike vertically and a team that has shown it can win from behind. Jackson State, however, appears even more explosive offensively after producing 1,106 yards and 92 points through two games.

Force Jackson State to play from an uncomfortable position
If Tuskegee can limit the JSU rushing attack, create pressure on Lockhart, generate explosive plays with McGrew and Nation and turn special teams into an advantage, the Golden Tigers can give themselves an opportunity to reverse last year's result. If Jackson State establishes its offensive balance early, Tuskegee could again face the difficult task of chasing a game against one of the most explosive offenses on its schedule.

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ABOUT THE SOUTHERN INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETIC CONFERENCE (SIAC)
The SIAC is an NCAA athletic conference consisting primarily of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) headquartered in downtown Atlanta, Georgia. The SIAC includes 15 member institutions (Albany State University, Allen University, Benedict College, Central State University, Clark Atlanta University, Edward Waters University, Fort Valley State University, Kentucky State University, Lane College, LeMoyne-Owen College, Miles College, Morehouse College, Savannah State University, Spring Hill College and Tuskegee University), which are located within a contiguous seven-state footprint (Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Kentucky, South Carolina, Tennessee and Ohio). The SIAC sponsors nine men's and eight women's sports and is a proud member of NCAA Division II. For more information, visit www.thesiac.com.