ATLANTA — The Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference turns its attention to a pivotal Week 4 slate as conference play continues to take shape across the league. The week begins under the national spotlight Thursday night with Benedict traveling to Tuskegee for an ESPN2 matchup, before Saturday's schedule brings another full day of SIAC football. Among the featured contests, Kentucky State visits Albany State and Edward Waters travels to Morehouse, with both games airing on ESPN+, while Miles heads to Savannah State as teams look to build momentum heading deeper into the conference schedule.
THURSDAY, SEPT. 24
Benedict Tigers (3-0, 1-0 SIAC) at Tuskegee Golden Tigers (1-2, 1-0 SIAC)
Kickoff: 6:00 p.m. CT / 7:00 p.m. ET
Location: Cleve L. Abbott Memorial Alumni Stadium — Tuskegee, Ala.
Game: Light It Up 2.0
Weather: Tuskegee, Ala., Forecast
Watch: ESPN2
Live Stats: Tuskegee Live Stats
Series: Tuskegee leads, 12-2 in series since 1997
Last Meeting: Benedict 45, Tuskegee 24 — Sept. 18, 2025, Columbia, S.C.
THE MATCHUP
Week 4 opens under the Thursday-night lights as unbeaten Benedict travels to Tuskegee for a nationally televised SIAC matchup between two teams that enter undefeated in conference play. Benedict is 3-0 overall and 1-0 in the SIAC, while Tuskegee stands 1-2 overall and 1-0 in conference play.
Benedict arrives in Tuskegee after surviving one of the most dramatic games of Week 3, a 34-33 overtime victory at Fort Valley State. The Tigers trailed 15-13 entering the fourth quarter before rushing touchdowns by A'chean Durant and Christopher Johnson put Benedict ahead 27-15. Fort Valley State responded with two late touchdowns, including a six-yard touchdown pass with nine seconds remaining to force overtime. The Wildcats scored first in the extra period but failed on the conversion, and Benedict answered immediately when Jett Peddy found Reece Dobard for a 25-yard touchdown on the Tigers' first overtime play. Logan Karwacki converted the extra point to secure the one-point victory.
The Tigers generated a season-high 494 yards of offense, including 296 rushing yards, while collecting 28 first downs and averaging 6.9 yards per play. Benedict also controlled the football for 32:04 and converted 8-of-14 third downs.
Benedict's rushing production was spread throughout the backfield. Durant rushed 13 times for 86 yards and a touchdown, David Smith added 86 yards on seven carries, and Christopher Johnson finished with 75 yards and a touchdown on eight attempts. Peddy completed 19-of-30 passes for 198 yards and the overtime touchdown while adding 30 rushing yards and another score.
Tuskegee returns home after a 41-7 loss at Jackson State in the W.C. Gorden Classic. The Golden Tigers stayed within 10-0 at halftime, but Jackson State scored three touchdowns during the third quarter to break the game open. Tuskegee's lone score came when Bryson McGrew broke free for a 17-yard touchdown run, completing a four-play, 75-yard drive.
Jackson State held Tuskegee to 198 total yards, including only 35 rushing yards on 34 attempts. McGrew completed 12-of-26 passes for 163 yards, while Preston Parker led the receiving corps with three catches for 61 yards. Tuskegee was limited to 13 first downs, went 3-of-14 on third down and turned the ball over twice.
The Golden Tigers' defense did produce several notable performances. Nate Davis recorded 10 tackles, while Devin Smith and Calvin Townes Jr. each finished with six. Masiah Wells contributed four tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss and a sack as Tuskegee finished with six tackles for loss and three sacks against Jackson State.
Thursday's matchup features a sharp statistical contrast. Benedict enters Week 4 ranked second in the SIAC in total offense at 427.3 yards per game and leads the conference with 217.7 rushing yards per game. Tuskegee averages 262.7 yards of total offense and 75.7 rushing yards. Benedict also leads the conference with 22.7 first downs per game, while Tuskegee averages 11.7.
The matchup also continues a series that has undergone a dramatic shift recently. Tuskegee won the first 12 documented meetings from 1997 through 2010, but Benedict has won the last two — first capturing the 2022 SIAC Football Championship Game, 58-21, and then winning last year's regular-season meeting 45-24 in Columbia.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Benedict — RB David Smith
Smith needed only seven carries to produce 86 yards against Fort Valley State, including a 47-yard run, and averaged 12.3 yards per attempt. His season production makes the performance more significant: Smith enters Thursday with 289 yards on 36 carries, averaging 8.0 yards per attempt and 96.3 yards per game, the top rushing average among the current SIAC statistical leaders.
Benedict — RB A'chean Durant
Durant helped change the momentum of Saturday's game, scoring on a 22-yard run early in the fourth quarter to give Benedict a 20-15 advantage. He finished with 86 yards on 13 carries and averaged 6.6 yards per attempt. Durant has 99 yards and two rushing touchdowns through three games.
Benedict — DB David Makonzo
Makonzo delivered one of Benedict's strongest defensive performances last week, recording a team-high six solo tackles, two tackles for loss totaling 12 yards and an interception. The performance continued his disruptive start to the season; the SIAC statistics credit him with two tackles for loss and an interception through his two listed appearances. His ability to create negative plays could be especially important against a Tuskegee offense coming off a game in which it managed only 35 rushing yards.
Tuskegee — QB Bryson McGrew
McGrew accounted for Tuskegee's only touchdown at Jackson State, breaking free for a 17-yard third-quarter scoring run. He also threw for 163 yards, including a 40-yard completion to Parker. Through three games, McGrew has completed 29-of-55 passes for 549 yards and four touchdowns, averaging 183.0 passing yards per game with a 156.9 efficiency rating. He has also rushed for 82 yards and two touchdowns.
Tuskegee — WR Preston Parker
Parker emerged as Tuskegee's most productive receiver against Jackson State, catching three passes for a team-high 61 yards, including a 40-yard reception. His performance is particularly important entering Thursday because Benedict has been much stronger against the pass than the run statistically. Tuskegee will need Parker and a receiving corps led on the season by Ean Nation, who has 149 yards on seven catches, to create explosive opportunities.
Tuskegee — LB Nate Davis
Davis was Tuskegee's leading tackler against Jackson State, recording nine solo tackles and 10 total stops. He also leads Tuskegee in the conference statistics with 20 tackles through three games, averaging 6.7 per contest. Davis will be central to Thursday's matchup against a Benedict rushing attack averaging a conference-best 217.7 yards per game.
BY THE NUMBERS
12-2 — Tuskegee's advantage in Benedict's documented series, which dates to 1997.
12 — Consecutive Tuskegee victories to begin the documented series from 1997 through 2010.
2 — Consecutive Benedict victories in the series after dropping the first 12 documented meetings.
58-21 — Benedict's breakthrough victory over Tuskegee in the 2022 SIAC Football Championship Game, its first win in the documented series.
45-24 — Benedict's victory over Tuskegee last season in Columbia. The Tigers overcame a 17-7 deficit and scored 38 unanswered points.
0-7 — Benedict's record at Tuskegee in its documented series history. Thursday gives Benedict an opportunity to earn its first documented road victory over the Golden Tigers.
3-0 — Benedict's start to the 2026 season following wins over Johnson C. Smith, Shorter and Fort Valley State.
34-33 — Benedict's overtime victory at Fort Valley State last Saturday.
494 — Benedict's total offense against Fort Valley State, including 296 rushing yards.
296 — Benedict's rushing yards last week, with three different backs producing at least 75 yards.
217.7 — Benedict's rushing yards per game, best in the SIAC entering Week 4.
427.3 — Benedict's total offense per game, second in the SIAC.
43.2% — Benedict's third-down conversion rate through three games, compared with 26.5 percent for Tuskegee.
198 — Tuskegee's total offensive yards against Jackson State.
35 — Tuskegee's rushing yards on 34 attempts last week.
549 — McGrew's passing yards through three games, with four touchdowns and one interception.
149 — Receiving yards by Ean Nation through three games on only seven catches, an average of 21.3 yards per reception.
20 — Tackles by Nate Davis through three games, the most on Tuskegee's roster among the current SIAC statistical leaders.
WHAT TO WATCH
Benedict's rushing attack against the Tuskegee front.
Benedict enters Thursday leading the SIAC at 217.7 rushing yards per game, and last week's 296-yard performance showed the depth of the Tigers' backfield. Smith, Durant and Johnson each rushed for at least 75 yards against Fort Valley State. Tuskegee, meanwhile, has allowed 525 rushing yards through three games. Establishing the ground game could allow Benedict to dictate tempo and keep Peddy in favorable down-and-distance situations.
Can Tuskegee rediscover its explosive passing game?
The Golden Tigers showed that capability against Fort Valley State, when McGrew threw touchdown passes of 52, 74 and 39 yards, but Jackson State largely eliminated those opportunities last Saturday. Against JSU, Tuskegee's longest completion was Parker's 40-yarder and Nation — who entered the game as one of the SIAC's top big-play receivers — was limited to one catch for seven yards. Nation still averages 21.3 yards per reception for the season.
Benedict has to protect the football.
The Tigers survived three turnovers against Fort Valley State — Peddy threw two interceptions and Benedict lost a fumble — but still generated 494 yards and won in overtime. Replicating that turnover margin on the road could make the task considerably more difficult.
Third down could tell the story.
Benedict has converted 43.2 percent of its third downs this season, compared with 26.5 percent for Tuskegee. Last week those trends were pronounced: Benedict went 8-of-14 against Fort Valley State, while Tuskegee finished 3-of-14 at Jackson State.
Can Tuskegee end Benedict's recent series momentum?
Tuskegee still owns the substantial historical advantage, but the trajectory has reversed. After winning the first 12 documented meetings, the Golden Tigers have lost the last two by a combined 103-45. Benedict's 58-21 win came in the 2022 SIAC Championship Game, and last season's 45-24 victory established a two-game streak for the Tigers.
Thursday night puts two unbeaten SIAC records on the line.
Benedict and Tuskegee are both 1-0 in conference play, making the nationally televised matchup an important early test in the SIAC race. Benedict arrives unbeaten overall and with one of the conference's most productive offenses, while Tuskegee returns to Abbott Memorial Alumni Stadium for its first true home game of the season after opening with three games at neutral or road sites.
LAST TIME THEY MET
Benedict defeated Tuskegee 45-24 on Sept. 18, 2025, at Charlie W. Johnson Stadium in Columbia. Tuskegee jumped in front 14-7 after the opening quarter and stretched its advantage to 17-7 in the second, but Benedict responded with 38 unanswered points to seize control. The Tigers produced 380 yards of offense and scored 28 points in the second quarter and 14 more in the fourth. Tuskegee's final touchdown came on a 92-yard kickoff return after Benedict had built a 45-17 advantage.
The victory was Benedict's second consecutive win over Tuskegee after the Tigers had lost each of the first 12 documented meetings.
LAST TIME OUT — BENEDICT
Benedict remained unbeaten with a 34-33 overtime victory at Fort Valley State. The Tigers trailed 15-13 entering the fourth quarter before Durant's 22-yard touchdown run and Johnson's 25-yard score gave Benedict a 27-15 advantage. Fort Valley State rallied to force overtime and scored first in the extra period, but its conversion failed. On Benedict's first overtime snap, Peddy connected with Dobard for a 25-yard touchdown, and Karwacki's extra point ended the game.
Benedict amassed 494 yards, 28 first downs and 296 rushing yards. Peddy accounted for two touchdowns, Smith and Durant each rushed for 86 yards, Johnson added 75, and Makonzo led the defense with six tackles, two tackles for loss and an interception.
LAST TIME OUT — TUSKEGEE
Tuskegee fell 41-7 at Jackson State in the W.C. Gorden Classic. The Golden Tigers held JSU scoreless in the first quarter and trailed only 10-0 at halftime before Jackson State scored 21 third-quarter points. McGrew's 17-yard touchdown run accounted for Tuskegee's only points.
Tuskegee finished with 198 total yards — 163 passing and 35 rushing — and converted 3-of-14 third downs. McGrew threw for 163 yards, Parker caught three passes for 61, and Davis paced the defense with 10 tackles. The Golden Tigers did generate three sacks, including one each from Devin Smith and Masiah Wells and a shared sack involving Braylon Jessie and Jayden Brown.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 26
Kentucky State Thorobreds (3-1, 2-0 SIAC) at Albany State Golden Rams (2-2, 2-0 SIAC)
Kickoff: 1:00 p.m. ET
Location: Albany State University Coliseum — Albany, Ga.
Weather: Albany, Ga. Forecast
Watch: ESPN+
Live Stats: Albany State Live Stats
Series: Albany State leads, 20-7
Last Meeting: Albany State 49, Kentucky State 21 — Sept. 6, 2025, Frankfort, Ky.
THE MATCHUP
One of Week 4's most significant SIAC matchups takes place in Albany as Kentucky State and Albany State put matching 2-0 conference records on the line Saturday afternoon. Kentucky State enters at 3-1 overall and 2-0 in SIAC play, while Albany State is 2-2 overall and 2-0 in the conference.
Kentucky State comes to Albany riding a three-game winning streak after holding off Saginaw Valley State 21-17 last Saturday in Frankfort. The Thorobreds trailed 17-14 midway through the fourth quarter before quarterback Denim Johnson connected with Cam Tucker for a 35-yard touchdown on fourth down with 6:29 remaining. Kentucky State's defense then protected the four-point advantage to close out the victory.
The Thorobreds finished with 384 yards of total offense, including 291 through the air. Johnson completed 12-of-27 passes for 200 yards and two touchdowns and rushed for another score, while Tucker produced a breakout performance with six receptions for 122 yards and both touchdown catches.
Kentucky State's defense was equally important. The Thorobreds forced three turnovers, intercepted two passes and recorded four sacks for 35 yards in losses. Kendrick Curry led the unit with seven tackles, three tackles for loss and a sack. Lawrence McConnell recorded six tackles and forced a fumble, while Keron Blankumsee recovered that fumble and added an interception.
Albany State returns home after a 32-28 road victory over Allen, its second consecutive win following an 0-2 start. The Golden Rams overcame deficits of 7-0 and 14-7 and took control during a 19-point second quarter highlighted by Jayden Threatts' 80-yard touchdown run and Cameron Watts' 69-yard punt-return touchdown.
Threatts delivered one of the conference's biggest individual performances of Week 3, rushing for 228 yards and a touchdown on 19 carries, an average of 12.0 yards per attempt. Quarterback Jeffery Davis complemented the ground game by completing 13-of-19 passes for 177 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions. Albany State generated 448 yards of offense, rushed for 271 yards and did not commit a turnover.
Saturday also renews a series that Albany State has dominated for more than two decades. Kentucky State's official historical database documents 27 meetings, with Albany State holding a 20-7 advantage. The Golden Rams have won 12 consecutive meetings, dating to Kentucky State's 19-13 victory in Albany in 2003.
The most recent meeting came last season in Frankfort, where Albany State earned a 49-21 victory. The Golden Rams entered that game riding an 11-game series winning streak and extended it to 12 while improving their all-time series advantage to 20-7.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Kentucky State — QB Denim Johnson
Johnson accounted for all three Kentucky State touchdowns in last week's 21-17 victory. He completed 12-of-27 passes for 200 yards, including touchdown strikes of 22 and 35 yards to Tucker, and added a six-yard rushing touchdown. Johnson's ability to create with both his arm and legs gives Albany State another dimension to defend, particularly in high-leverage situations.
Kentucky State —WR Cam Tucker
Tucker was Kentucky State's primary difference-maker in the passing game last week, accounting for 122 of the Thorobreds' 291 passing yards. His 22-yard first-quarter touchdown tied the game, and his 35-yard reception with 6:29 remaining provided the winning points. Through the first four games, the SIAC statistics credit Tucker with nine receptions for 136 yards and two touchdowns, with nearly all of that production coming in last week's breakout performance.
Kentucky State — LB Kendrick Curry
Curry consistently disrupted the Saginaw Valley offense, recording seven tackles, three tackles for loss totaling 12 yards and a sack. Through four games, Curry has 23 tackles and six tackles for loss, the latter ranking among the SIAC leaders. His ability to penetrate the backfield will be critical against an Albany State rushing attack that exploded for 271 yards last week.
Albany State — RB Jayden Threatts
Threatts enters Saturday after a spectacular performance at Allen. He rushed for 228 yards on 19 carries, averaging 12.0 yards per attempt, and broke an 80-yard touchdown run in the second quarter. Through four games, Albany State's official statistics credit Threatts with 309 rushing yards and three touchdowns while averaging 7.7 yards per carry.
Albany State — QB Jeffery Davis
Davis delivered an efficient performance in Columbia, completing 68.4 percent of his passes and throwing touchdowns to Omarion Dupree and Exavior Sherrod without committing a turnover. His 45-yard touchdown to Sherrod pulled Albany State within one late in the first quarter. Against a Kentucky State defense that has generated takeaways and pressure, Davis' ball security could be particularly important.
Albany State — DB/PR Cameron Watts
Watts changed the game on special teams last Saturday, returning a punt 69 yards for a touchdown to give Albany State a 26-14 second-quarter advantage. He finished with 85 total return yards and also contributed defensively. His explosiveness adds another concern for a Kentucky State team that surrendered a 58-yard punt-return touchdown to Saginaw Valley State last week.
BY THE NUMBER
20-7 — Albany State's all-time series advantage over Kentucky State following last season's victory.
12 — Consecutive Albany State victories in the series. Kentucky State's most recent win came in 2003.
19-13 — Kentucky State's victory at Albany State on Sept. 20, 2003, the Thorobreds' most recent win in the series.
49-21 — Albany State's victory in each of the last two meetings — Sept. 28, 2024 in Albany and Sept. 6, 2025 in Frankfort.
3-1 — Kentucky State's record entering Saturday, with three consecutive victories following its loss at Southern.
2-2 — Albany State's overall record after beginning the season 0-2 and responding with consecutive SIAC victories.
2-0 — Both teams' conference records entering the matchup, putting two of the SIAC's remaining unbeaten conference marks on the line.
421.8 — Kentucky State's total offense per game through four games, third in the SIAC.
319.3 — Albany State's total offense per game through four contests.
17.0 — Points allowed per game by Kentucky State, the best scoring-defense figure in the SIAC entering Week 4.
302.3 — Albany State's yards allowed per game, the best total-defense figure in the SIAC entering Week 4. Kentucky State is second at 322.3.
228 — Threatts' rushing yards against Allen, accumulated on just 19 carries.
80 — Length of Threatts' second-quarter touchdown run against Allen.
122 — Tucker's receiving yards on six catches against Saginaw Valley State.
4 — Sacks recorded by Kentucky State against Saginaw Valley State, totaling 35 yards in losses.
3 — Turnovers forced by Kentucky State last week — two interceptions and one recovered fumble.
0 — Turnovers committed by Albany State against Allen.
WHAT TO WATCH
Threats against Kentucky State's run defense.
This may be the defining matchup. Threatts enters after rushing for 228 yards at Allen, including an 80-yard touchdown, while Albany State finished with 271 yards on the ground. Kentucky State, however, has allowed 127.0 rushing yards per game, one of the stronger marks in the conference. If the Golden Rams can reproduce last week's ground production, it could reduce the pressure on Davis and help Albany State control the game offensively.
Kentucky State's passing game against the SIAC's top total defense.
The Thorobreds are averaging 421.8 yards of offense, including 1,099 passing yards through four games. Albany State leads the conference in total defense at 302.3 yards allowed per game. Kentucky State showed last week that its quarterback rotation can move the football through the air: Johnson threw for 200 yards while Juan Gainous added 91 on 4-of-6 passing.
Turnovers could swing a close game.
Kentucky State forced three against Saginaw Valley State. McConnell forced a fumble on the Cardinals' opening possession, Blankumsee recovered it and later intercepted a pass, and Lensley Dieujuste added another interception. Albany State, meanwhile, played turnover-free football against Allen while Rontavion Scott intercepted a pass and returned it 75 yards.
Special teams have game-changing potential on both sides.
Watts scored on a 69-yard punt return against Allen. Kentucky State's Leland Gantz averaged 48.8 yards on five punts against Saginaw Valley, including a 72-yarder, but the Thorobreds also surrendered a 58-yard punt-return touchdown. That creates an intriguing field-position battle every time Kentucky State is forced to punt.
Third-down execution.
Kentucky State's defense repeatedly made timely stops last Saturday, while its offense converted 5-of-15 third downs. Albany State went only 4-of-12 against Allen, but the Golden Rams' defense held the Yellow Jackets to 0-for-10 on third down.
Can Kentucky State finally break Albany State's series streak?
The Thorobreds enter with momentum, an unbeaten conference record and one of the SIAC's most productive offenses. But the historical hurdle is substantial: Albany State has defeated Kentucky State 12 consecutive times, including identical 49-21 victories in each of the past two seasons.
LAST TIME THEY MET
Albany State defeated Kentucky State 49-21 on Sept. 6, 2025, at Alumni Stadium in Frankfort. The victory improved Albany State to 2-0 and extended its winning streak against Kentucky State to 12 consecutive games, while moving the Golden Rams' all-time advantage in the series to 20-7.
Albany State was especially effective through the air, producing 304 passing yards and six passing touchdowns while adding 171 rushing yards for 475 yards of total offense. The Golden Rams converted 11-of-16 third downs and possessed the football for 35:05.
The result also repeated the score from the previous season. Albany State defeated Kentucky State 49-21 in Albany on Sept. 28, 2024, before winning by the same margin in Frankfort the following year.
LAST TIME OUT — KENTUCKY STATE
Kentucky State improved to 3-1 with a 21-17 victory over Saginaw Valley State at Alumni Field. After surrendering a 58-yard punt-return touchdown, Kentucky State responded with a seven-play, 75-yard drive capped by Johnson's 22-yard touchdown pass to Tucker. Johnson's six-yard run put the Thorobreds ahead 14-7 in the third quarter before Saginaw Valley scored 10 unanswered points to regain the lead.
Facing fourth-quarter pressure, Kentucky State responded with an eight-play, 76-yard drive. Johnson found Tucker for the 35-yard go-ahead touchdown with 6:29 remaining, and the defense made the lead stand.
The Thorobreds produced 384 yards, with 291 coming through the air. Tucker caught six passes for 122 yards and two touchdowns, while Johnson accounted for three scores. Curry led a defense that generated eight tackles for loss, four sacks and three takeaways.
LAST TIME OUT — ALBANY STATE
Albany State earned its second consecutive victory by holding off Allen 32-28 in Columbia. After falling behind 14-7 in the opening quarter, Davis connected with Sherrod for a 45-yard touchdown, Threatts exploded for an 80-yard scoring run, and Watts returned a punt 69 yards for a touchdown as the Golden Rams built a 26-21 halftime advantage.
Jonathan Rodriguez extended the lead with field goals of 35 and 19 yards in the second half. Allen pulled within four on a touchdown with 3:36 remaining, but Albany State kept possession for the remainder of the game to close out the win.
The Golden Rams finished with 448 yards of offense, including 271 rushing, and held the ball for 33:28. Threatts accounted for 228 rushing yards, Davis threw for 177 yards and two touchdowns, and Jimmy Dawson led Albany State with six tackles and a tackle for loss.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 26
Edward Waters (3-1, 2-0 SIAC) at Morehouse (1-3, 1-2 SIAC)
Kickoff: 1:00 p.m. ET
Location: B.T. Harvey Stadium - Atlanta, Ga.
Weather: Atlanta, Ga. Forecast
Watch: ESPN+
Live Stats: Morehouse Live Stats
Series: Morehouse leads 6-5 since 2011
Last Meeting: Edward Waters 27, Morehouse 24 — Sept. 27, 2025, Jacksonville, Fla.
THE MATCHUP
Edward Waters carries one of the SIAC's hottest offenses into Atlanta on Saturday for a conference matchup with a Morehouse team coming off its most complete performance of the season.
The Tigers improved to 3-1 overall and 2-0 in SIAC play with a 55-30 victory over Savannah State last Saturday in Jacksonville. Edward Waters erupted for 35 first-half points and generated 519 yards of total offense, including 420 passing yards in the official team totals. The Tigers averaged 7.9 yards per play, converted 6-of-12 third downs and scored on all five of their red-zone opportunities.
Morehouse enters at 1-3 overall and 1-2 in conference play after breaking into the win column in emphatic fashion with a 44-0 road victory over Lane. The Maroon Tigers led 14-0 at halftime before scoring 30 second-half points. Morehouse's defense limited Lane to 184 yards, forced five turnovers — including four interceptions — and did not allow the Dragons to score on their only red-zone opportunity.
Saturday presents an intriguing contrast. Edward Waters enters Week 4 as the SIAC's highest-scoring team at 35.3 points per game and ranks among the league's most productive offenses at 389.8 yards per contest. The Tigers' strength has been the passing game, where they average 293.3 yards per game. Morehouse, meanwhile, is coming off its first shutout and generated four interceptions against Lane.
The matchup also carries a dramatic recent series history. Morehouse won the first six meetings documented by its athletics department from 2011 through 2019, but Edward Waters has completely reversed the series since then. The Tigers have won five consecutive meetings from 2021-25, cutting Morehouse's documented series advantage to 6-5.
Last year's meeting was the closest game during Edward Waters' current five-game winning streak. The Tigers held off Morehouse 27-24 in Jacksonville, after the Maroon Tigers had lost the previous three meetings by margins of 24, 31 and 17 points.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Edward Waters — QB Tavion Faulk
Faulk produced one of the top quarterback performances in the conference last week, completing 19-of-31 passes for 422 yards and five touchdowns while averaging 13.6 yards per completion. His scoring passes covered 42, 29, 52, 69 and 17 yards as Edward Waters built a 35-14 halftime lead. He also added a two-yard rushing touchdown in the third quarter.
Through four games, Faulk has completed 68-of-117 passes for 1,118 yards, 12 touchdowns and only two interceptions, averaging 279.5 passing yards per game with a 168.8 efficiency rating. He enters Week 4 among the SIAC's most productive quarterbacks.
Edward Waters — WR Izaiah Jean-Baptiste
Jean-Baptiste continued his outstanding start by reaching the century mark against Savannah State. He caught four passes for 100 yards and two touchdowns, including a 52-yard score that put Edward Waters ahead 21-0 and a 17-yard touchdown late in the second quarter.
His season numbers make him one of the conference's most dangerous receivers: 24 receptions, 448 yards and seven touchdowns, an average of 18.7 yards per catch and 112.0 yards per game. He also enters the week with 42 points, generated by seven receiving touchdowns.
Edward Waters — RB Johntarrious Thomas
Thomas gave Edward Waters a major dual-threat presence against Savannah State. He rushed eight times for 75 yards, averaging 9.4 yards per carry, and caught two passes for 65 yards, including a 49-yard touchdown reception. That gave him 140 yards from scrimmage on only 10 offensive touches.
Through four games, Thomas has 214 rushing yards on 44 carries and 76 receiving yards, giving him 290 yards from scrimmage. His 53.5 rushing yards per game are among the SIAC's top individual totals entering Week 4.
Morehouse — RB Chase DeVaughn
DeVaughn powered the Morehouse rushing attack in Jackson, rushing for 117 yards on 15 attempts and averaging 7.8 yards per carry. His biggest play came late in the fourth quarter when he broke free for a 55-yard touchdown run that extended the Morehouse lead to 37-0.
DeVaughn enters Saturday with 270 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 52 carries, averaging 5.2 yards per attempt and 67.5 yards per game. He also has 379 all-purpose yards through four contests.
Morehouse — RB Savion Red
Red accounted for Morehouse's first two touchdowns against Lane, scoring on runs of 10 and three yards as the Maroon Tigers built their 14-0 halftime advantage. He finished with 51 yards on 12 carries.
Although his rushing total stands at 126 yards through four games, Red has been Morehouse's most productive scorer around the goal line. His five rushing touchdowns lead the Maroon Tigers and have accounted for 30 points.
Morehouse — WR Noah Rhodes
Rhodes was Miles Scott's leading target in Morehouse's first victory, catching five passes for 89 yards, including an eight-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter. His 30-yard reception was Morehouse's longest completion of the afternoon.
Rhodes enters Week 4 with nine catches for 134 yards and a touchdown, averaging 14.9 yards per reception. His production against Lane represented more than half of his season receiving yardage and could signal an expanded role in the Morehouse passing game.
BY THE NUMBERS
6-5 — Morehouse's advantage in the series documented by its athletics department, covering 11 meetings since 2011.
5 — Consecutive Edward Waters victories over Morehouse since 2021 after the Maroon Tigers won the first six documented meetings.
27-24 — Edward Waters' victory over Morehouse in Jacksonville last season, the closest game during the Tigers' current five-game series winning streak.
49-15 — Morehouse's victory in the first meeting documented by its current series database on Sept. 17, 2011. It remains the Maroon Tigers' largest victory in the documented series.
6 — Consecutive Morehouse victories to open the documented series from 2011 through 2019.
55 — Points scored by Edward Waters against Savannah State last week, the Tigers' highest total through their first four games of 2026.
44 — Points scored by Morehouse in its shutout victory over Lane, more than the Maroon Tigers had scored in any of their first three games.
519 — Edward Waters' total offensive yards against Savannah State, including 420 passing yards in the official team statistics.
422 — Faulk's passing yards against Savannah State on just 31 attempts.
12 — Faulk's touchdown passes through four games, accompanying 1,118 passing yards and only two interceptions.
448 — Jean-Baptiste's receiving yards through four games, along with seven touchdowns.
190 — Morehouse's rushing yards against Lane, led by DeVaughn's 117 and Red's 51.
5 — Turnovers forced by Morehouse against Lane: four interceptions and a fumble recovery.
184 — Total yards allowed by Morehouse in its shutout of Lane. The Dragons managed only 92 rushing and 92 passing yards.
35.3 — Edward Waters' conference-leading scoring average through four games.
WHAT TO WATCH
Can Morehouse slow Edward Waters' passing game?
The matchup begins with Faulk and an Edward Waters passing attack averaging 293.3 yards per game, second in the SIAC through four contests. Faulk threw five touchdown passes against Savannah State, while Jean-Baptiste, Tylon Williams, Jayden Pressey, Johntarrious Thomas and Xavier Irvin all produced receptions of at least 29 yards.
Morehouse's secondary enters with momentum.
Lane completed only 8-of-26 passes for 92 yards and threw four interceptions last Saturday. Markevious Yancie, Joziah Campbell and Jordan Woods combined for four interceptions and 71 return yards, with Woods returning his pick 21 yards for a touchdown. That unit now faces a dramatically different challenge against an Edward Waters offense with 1,173 passing yards and 13 passing touchdowns through four games.
Edward Waters' explosive plays versus Morehouse's ability to limit them.
Four of Faulk's five touchdown passes against Savannah State covered at least 29 yards — 42, 29, 52 and 69 yards. The Tigers generated 441 individual passing yards in the detailed box-score breakdown and averaged 21.0 yards per completed pass. Morehouse cannot afford to consistently give Edward Waters opportunities downfield.
Can the Maroon Tigers establish DeVaughn and Red?
Morehouse rushed for 190 yards and three touchdowns against Lane. DeVaughn and Red combined for 168 yards and all three rushing scores, giving the Maroon Tigers a formula that helped them control possession for 33:10. Edward Waters enters allowing 135.5 rushing yards per game, compared with 276.5 yards through the air.
The turnover battle. Morehouse's five takeaways were central to its shutout of Lane, and the Maroon Tigers now have seven interceptions through four games. Faulk, however, has thrown only two interceptions in 117 attempts this season.
Morehouse's fourth-down efficiency.
The Maroon Tigers have converted 8-of-9 fourth-down attempts (88.9 percent) through four games, the best percentage in the SIAC. Edward Waters is 2-of-7. In a matchup in which possessions could be especially valuable, Morehouse's ability to extend drives may be important.
Can Morehouse end the series reversal?
From 2011-19, Morehouse won all six documented meetings. Since Edward Waters joined the SIAC football schedule, the Tigers have won all five meetings from 2021-25. Saturday gives Morehouse its first opportunity since 2019 to stop that streak.
LAST TIME THEY MET
Edward Waters held off Morehouse 27-24 on Sept. 27, 2025, at Nathaniel Glover Community Field & Stadium in Jacksonville. The Tigers improved to 4-1 overall and 3-0 in SIAC play, while Morehouse fell to 0-4 and 0-2.
Edward Waters jumped ahead 14-0 in the first quarter before Morehouse responded to tie the game at 14 by halftime. The Tigers regained control in the third quarter and carried a 20-17 advantage into the fourth. Each team added a touchdown in the final period, leaving Edward Waters with the three-point victory.
Morehouse quarterback Miles Scott threw for 267 yards, while Nicholas Woodford rushed for 95 and Eric Stephens had 77 receiving yards. Edward Waters quarterback Noah Bodden passed for 292 yards, Johntarrious Thomas rushed for 115 and Izaiah Jean-Baptiste finished with 84 receiving yards.
The victory was Edward Waters' fifth consecutive win in the series after Morehouse had won each of the first six meetings listed in its official opponent-history database.
LAST TIME OUT — EDWARD WATERS
Edward Waters produced an offensive showcase in a 55-30 victory over Savannah State last Saturday in Jacksonville.
Faulk opened the scoring with touchdown passes of 42 yards to Pressey and 29 yards to Irvin. He followed with a 52-yard touchdown to Jean-Baptiste and a 69-yard strike to Williams before finding Jean-Baptiste again from 17 yards out, giving Edward Waters a 35-14 halftime lead.
Faulk's two-yard rushing touchdown extended the advantage to 42-14 in the third quarter. Edward Waters later added field goals of 41 and 27 yards from Evan Lucier.
The Tigers accumulated 519 yards of offense, recorded 21 first downs and averaged 7.9 yards per play. Edward Waters was particularly explosive through the air, producing 420 net passing yards in the team totals.
Faulk's individual line showed 422 passing yards and five touchdowns, while Jean-Baptiste had 100 receiving yards, Williams 84, Pressey 81 and Thomas 65. Thomas also led the ground attack with 75 rushing yards.
Defensively, Trevon French recorded 11 tackles, while Tyreese Williams produced two sacks and forced a fumble. Edward Waters finished with nine tackles for loss and four sacks.
LAST TIME OUT — MOREHOUSE
Morehouse broke through for its first victory of 2026 in convincing fashion, shutting out Lane 44-0 in Jackson, Tennessee. It was a 14-0 game at halftime before the Maroon Tigers pulled away with 30 points after the break.
Red scored Morehouse's first two touchdowns on runs of 10 and three yards. Davis Rowe added a 25-yard field goal in the third quarter before the game opened up in the fourth. Scott connected with Rhodes for an eight-yard touchdown, Woods returned an interception 21 yards for a score, DeVaughn broke a 55-yard touchdown run, and Ayden Williams completed the scoring with a 30-yard punt-return touchdown.
Morehouse finished with 327 yards, including 190 rushing, while limiting Lane to only 184 total yards. The Maroon Tigers controlled possession for 33:10 and converted 6-of-13 third downs.
DeVaughn rushed for 117 yards, Red added 51 yards and two touchdowns, and Rhodes caught five passes for 89 yards and a score.
The defensive performance was equally significant. Morehouse recorded eight tackles for loss, three sacks, four interceptions and a fumble recovery. Joshua Maye and Sean Johnson each recorded seven tackles, while Zack Underwood had a sack.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 26
Warner Royals (0-3) at Clark Atlanta Panthers (1-3, 1-2 SIAC)
Kickoff: 2:00 p.m. ET
Location: CAU Panther Stadium — Atlanta, Ga.
Weather: Atlanta, Ga.
Watch: SIAC Network
Live Stats: Clark Atlanta Live Stats
Series: First Meeting
Last Meeting: First Meeting between the programs
THE MATCHUP
Clark Atlanta steps outside SIAC competition Saturday afternoon when the Panthers welcome Warner University to CAU Panther Stadium, with both teams looking to halt losing streaks and generate momentum heading into October.
The Panthers enter at 1-3 overall and 1-2 in SIAC play following a 27-14 loss to Miles last Saturday in Atlanta. Clark Atlanta actually controlled the early portion of the game, taking a 7-0 lead on Xzavier Jackson's 15-yard touchdown pass to Nicholas Teeter and extending the advantage to 14-0 on Kelan Anderson's six-yard touchdown run. Miles, however, scored the game's final 27 points.
Clark Atlanta was limited to 209 yards of total offense, including 104 rushing and 105 passing, while Miles accumulated 370 yards. The Panthers converted 6-of-15 third downs and scored touchdowns on both of their red-zone opportunities, but two fourth-quarter interceptions ended any opportunity for a comeback.
Warner arrives in Atlanta at 0-3 after a 39-14 home loss to No. 24 Georgetown College. The Royals were much more competitive than the final margin suggests for much of the afternoon. Warner trailed 18-7 entering the fourth quarter before Traven Green connected with Mark Hanniford on a 52-yard touchdown, cutting the deficit to 18-14 with 13:09 remaining. Georgetown then scored three unanswered touchdowns to pull away.
The Royals finished with 281 yards, including 230 through the air, but were held to only 51 rushing yards. Warner's biggest problems came from self-inflicted mistakes: the Royals committed 16 penalties for 178 yards and lost all three of their fumbles.
Saturday also represents Warner's final nonconference game before beginning Sun Conference play against Webber International on Oct. 3. Clark Atlanta, meanwhile, returns to SIAC competition next week with a road trip to Benedict.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Warner — WR Mark Hanniford
Hanniford was responsible for both Warner touchdowns against Georgetown and continued to emerge as the Royals' primary big-play threat. He caught a 14-yard touchdown from Michael Ryan in the first quarter before taking a Traven Green pass 52 yards for a score early in the fourth quarter. He finished with three receptions for 70 yards and two touchdowns.
His performance followed a four-catch, 71-yard outing against Cumberlands on Sept. 12, giving him seven receptions for 141 yards over Warner's last two games. His ability to create explosive plays will be important against a Clark Atlanta defense allowing 211.3 passing yards per game.
Warner — QB Traven Green
Green provided Warner with a spark in the passing game, completing 10-of-15 attempts for 154 yards and a touchdown without an interception. His biggest moment came early in the fourth quarter when he found Hanniford for the 52-yard touchdown that brought Warner within four points.
Green also added eight rushing yards and was not sacked, an important contrast to fellow quarterback Michael Ryan, who was brought down four times. Whether Green receives an expanded role Saturday will be worth watching against a Clark Atlanta defense that has allowed 845 passing yards through four games.
Warner — LB Eysaw Parrish
Parrish led Warner defensively against Georgetown with seven total tackles, including six solo stops and a tackle for loss.
It was another productive outing after Parrish recorded six tackles and a half tackle for loss against Cumberlands the previous week. He will be central to Warner's attempt to contain Clark Atlanta running back Kelan Anderson and prevent the Panthers from establishing the ground game.
Clark Atlanta — RB Kelan Anderson
Anderson carried the offensive load against Miles, rushing 22 times for 80 yards and a touchdown. His six-yard scoring run early in the second quarter gave Clark Atlanta a 14-0 advantage.
Through three appearances, Anderson has rushed 41 times for 187 yards and two touchdowns, averaging 4.6 yards per carry and 62.3 yards per game. He has become the Panthers' most productive runner and should have an opportunity to establish himself early against a Warner defense that allowed Georgetown to produce 110 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns last week.
Clark Atlanta — WR/KR Chry'shawn Sellers
Miles limited Sellers' impact as a receiver, holding him to five catches for 20 yards, but he continued to contribute on special teams. Sellers returned three kickoffs for 66 yards and two punts for 25 yards, giving him 111 combined yards between receiving and returns.
His season numbers show why Warner must account for him on every touch. Sellers has 18 receptions for 258 yards and three touchdowns, along with 54 punt-return yards and 223 kickoff-return yards. His 538 all-purpose yards — 134.5 per game — lead Clark Atlanta and place him among the SIAC's most productive all-purpose threats.
Clark Atlanta — LB Eric Searcy
Searcy was Clark Atlanta's leading tackler against Miles, finishing with nine tackles, one tackle for loss, one sack and a forced fumble.
Through four games, Searcy has accumulated 29 tackles, including 19 solo stops, to average 7.3 tackles per game. He also has three tackles for loss and a sack. With Warner using multiple quarterbacks last week and struggling to establish its rushing game, Searcy's ability to disrupt plays around the line of scrimmage could be significant.
BY THE NUMBERS
1st — Saturday marks the first documented football meeting between Warner and Clark Atlanta. Neither school's official opponent-history database lists a previous matchup.
0-3 — Warner's record entering Saturday after losses to Valdosta State, Cumberlands and Georgetown.
1-3 — Clark Atlanta's record through four games, with its lone victory coming 31-21 over Morehouse on Sept. 5.
14-0 — Clark Atlanta's lead over Miles early in the second quarter last Saturday before the Golden Bears scored 27 unanswered points.
27 — Consecutive points scored by Miles after Clark Atlanta built its 14-point advantage.
209 — Total offensive yards for Clark Atlanta against Miles, including 104 rushing and 105 passing.
80 — Anderson's rushing yards on 22 carries against Miles, including Clark Atlanta's lone rushing touchdown.
538 — Sellers' all-purpose yards through four games: 258 receiving, 54 on punt returns, 223 on kickoff returns and three rushing.
29 — Searcy's tackles through four games, including nine against Miles.
18-14 — Georgetown's lead when Warner struck for a 52-yard Green-to-Hanniford touchdown early in the fourth quarter.
230 — Warner's passing yards against Georgetown on 19-of-32 passing with two touchdowns and no interceptions.
70 — Hanniford's receiving yards on only three catches against Georgetown, with two touchdowns.
52 — Length of Hanniford's fourth-quarter touchdown reception from Green, Warner's longest offensive play of the game.
178 — Penalty yards assessed against Warner on 16 penalties against Georgetown.
3 — Fumbles lost by Warner against Georgetown. Two of those miscues were converted directly into fourth-quarter Georgetown touchdowns.
245.8 — Clark Atlanta's average total offense through four games, with 983 yards on 213 plays.
WHAT TO WATCH
Can Clark Atlanta finish after another strong start?
The Panthers could not have asked for a much better opening against Miles. Jackson found Teeter for a 15-yard touchdown, Anderson scored from six yards out and CAU held a 14-0 advantage with 12:40 remaining in the second quarter. From there, however, the Panthers were shut out. Turning early production into four-quarter consistency is a major storyline Saturday.
Warner must eliminate the self-inflicted mistakes.
The Royals finished within 47 yards of Georgetown in total offense, but the box score reveals the difference: Warner committed 16 penalties for 178 yards and lost three fumbles, while Georgetown was penalized only five times for 43 yards. Against a Clark Atlanta team also searching for momentum, Warner cannot afford to repeatedly give away field position and possessions.
Anderson against the Warner front.
Clark Atlanta is averaging only 111 rushing yards per game, but Anderson has become the Panthers' clear featured back. He received 22 carries against Miles and has 187 yards on 41 attempts through three games. Warner limited Georgetown to 110 rushing yards overall, but the Royals surrendered three rushing touchdowns.
Hanniford presents an explosive-play problem.
Warner may have found something with Hanniford. He has produced 141 receiving yards over the last two games, then scored twice against Georgetown. His 52-yard touchdown last week showed his ability to flip field position and score quickly.
Which Warner quarterback gets the larger role?
Michael Ryan started against Georgetown and completed 9-of-16 passes for 76 yards and a touchdown, but he was sacked four times. Green went 10-of-15 for 154 yards and a touchdown without an interception. How Warner divides the snaps between the two quarterbacks is one of Saturday's most interesting tactical questions.
Clark Atlanta needs to rediscover its explosive passing game.
Jackson threw for 223 yards and two touchdowns in CAU's victory over Morehouse, but against Miles he was held to 105 yards on 12-of-27 passing with two interceptions. Sellers has already demonstrated big-play ability this season, including touchdown catches of 64 and 51 yards.
Third down could determine whether either offense finds rhythm.
Warner converted only 3-of-13 third downs against Georgetown, while Clark Atlanta was 6-of-15 against Miles. Both teams need longer sustained drives after combining for only 490 yards of offense last week.
LAST TIME OUT — WARNER
Warner dropped to 0-3 with a 39-14 loss to No. 24 Georgetown last Saturday in Lakeland, Florida. The Royals remained within striking distance until the closing stages despite Georgetown scoring the game's first touchdown.
Warner answered Georgetown's opening score with a seven-play, 75-yard touchdown drive. Ryan completed a 14-yard pass to Hanniford for the score, giving the Royals a 7-6 lead with 8:04 remaining in the opening quarter.
Georgetown scored the next 12 points to carry an 18-7 advantage into halftime. Neither team scored in the third quarter before Warner made its move early in the fourth. Green connected with Hanniford for a 52-yard touchdown, completing a three-play, 68-yard drive in just 1:01 and cutting the deficit to 18-14.
The game turned dramatically from there. Georgetown recovered two Warner fumbles for touchdowns and added a 17-yard rushing score, accounting for 21 fourth-quarter points and producing the final 39-14 margin.
Warner produced 281 total yards, including 230 passing and 51 rushing. Green finished 10-of-15 for 154 yards and a touchdown, while Ryan was 9-of-16 for 76 yards and a score. Neither quarterback threw an interception.
Hanniford led the receiving corps with three catches for 70 yards and two touchdowns, while Trevarus Walker caught five passes for 46 yards. Parrish led the defense with seven tackles, while Jai Robinson recorded six tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss and a half sack.
The decisive numbers were Warner's three lost fumbles and 16 penalties for 178 yards.
LAST TIME OUT — CLARK ATLANTA
Clark Atlanta fell to 1-3 overall and 1-2 in the SIAC with a 27-14 loss to Miles last Saturday at CAU Panther Stadium.
The Panthers opened impressively. Jackson capped a nine-play, 62-yard drive with a 15-yard touchdown pass to Teeter, and Anderson followed with a six-yard touchdown run early in the second quarter to give CAU a 14-0 advantage.
Miles responded with 17 points before halftime, tying the game on Anthony Mix's 10-yard touchdown pass to Jaiden Jones before Rourke Davis' 34-yard field goal as time expired gave the Golden Bears a 17-14 halftime lead. Miles added a 44-yard field goal in the third quarter and Mix's 67-yard touchdown run late in the fourth to complete the scoring.
Clark Atlanta finished with 209 total yards, compared with Miles' 370. The Panthers rushed for 104 yards on 34 attempts and passed for 105. Miles' biggest advantage came on the ground, where the Golden Bears amassed 252 rushing yards and averaged 7.0 yards per carry.
Anderson led CAU with 80 rushing yards and a touchdown on 22 carries. Jackson completed 12-of-27 passes for 105 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions. Sellers caught five passes and contributed 91 yards on kick and punt returns.
Defensively, Searcy led the Panthers with nine tackles and a sack, Dwight Jacobs Jr. added seven tackles, and Javeon Miller recorded three tackles for loss and a sack. Clark Atlanta finished with eight tackles for loss and two sacks.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 26
Fort Valley State Wildcats (1-2, 0-2 SIAC) at West Georgia Wolves (0-4)
Kickoff: 6:00 p.m. ET
Location: University Stadium — Carrollton, Ga.
Game: Military & First Responder Appreciation Day
Weather:
Carrollton, Ga. Forecast
Watch:
ESPN+
Live Stats:
West Georgia Live Stats
Series: West Georgia leads, 1-0
Last Meeting: West Georgia 34, Fort Valley State 9 — Aug. 31, 2017, Carrollton, Ga.
THE MATCHUP
Fort Valley State makes the short in-state trip to Carrollton on Saturday night for a nonconference matchup with Division I FCS member West Georgia at University Stadium. The Wildcats enter at 1-2 overall and 0-2 in SIAC play, while the Wolves are 0-4 entering their final nonconference game before an open week and the beginning of United Athletic Conference play. The meeting will be just the second all-time matchup between the programs and the first since West Georgia defeated FVSU 34-9 in the 2017 season opener. UWG's official football record book lists the Wolves with a 1-0 advantage in the series.
Both teams arrive in Carrollton after difficult but encouraging Week 3 performances. Fort Valley State suffered a heartbreaking 34-33 overtime loss to unbeaten Benedict, rallying from a 27-15 fourth-quarter deficit and forcing overtime with a touchdown with nine seconds remaining. The Wildcats generated a season-high 480 yards of total offense, including 243 rushing and 237 passing.
West Georgia, meanwhile, produced its strongest offensive showing of the season in a 35-27 road loss at East Tennessee State. The Wolves amassed 411 yards, including 347 through the air, and briefly took a 24-21 lead in the third quarter before an interception was returned for a touchdown.
The matchup brings together an FVSU offense averaging 391.0 yards per game, fifth among SIAC teams, and a West Georgia offense coming off its first 400-yard performance of 2026. Fort Valley State is also averaging 185.3 rushing yards per game, second in the SIAC.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Fort Valley State — QB Don Hudson
Hudson turned in his most dynamic performance of the season against Benedict, accounting for 331 yards of total offense. He completed 16-of-28 passes for 237 yards and a touchdown while adding 94 rushing yards and a score on 11 attempts. His 12-yard touchdown run brought FVSU within 27-21 late in the fourth quarter, and he then directed the 78-yard drive that tied the game with nine seconds remaining.
Through three games, Hudson has completed 48-of-75 passes for 528 yards and two touchdowns, while adding 150 rushing yards. His 678 yards of total offense — 226.0 per game — are among the top marks in the SIAC. His dual-threat ability becomes particularly important against a West Georgia defense that must account for designed quarterback runs as well as FVSU's downfield passing game.
Fort Valley State — RB Rodrick Payne
Payne delivered one of the most explosive rushing performances of Week 3 despite receiving only eight carries. He rushed for 95 yards and two touchdowns, averaging 11.9 yards per attempt. His 70-yard touchdown in the second quarter gave FVSU an 8-3 lead, and his 14-yard scoring run on the Wildcats' overtime possession put Fort Valley State ahead 33-27.
Payne enters Saturday with 186 rushing yards on 26 carries through three games, averaging 62.0 yards per game. He has also contributed 42 receiving yards and owns 243 all-purpose yards. His ability to create explosive plays gives FVSU another dimension alongside Hudson and Michael Cabellero in a rushing attack averaging 185.3 yards per game.
Fort Valley State — WR J.T. Pendleton
Pendleton continues to establish himself as one of Hudson's primary targets. Against Benedict, he led the Wildcats with 65 receiving yards on four catches, including a 61-yard reception — FVSU's longest pass play of the afternoon.
The performance gave Pendleton 12 receptions for 155 yards in two games, an average of 77.5 receiving yards per contest. He has also accumulated 189 all-purpose yards when his kick-return work is included. With West Georgia likely needing to commit resources to Hudson and the Wildcats' rushing attack, Pendleton's ability to stretch the field could create opportunities on the perimeter.
West Georgia — QB Colton FitzGerald
FitzGerald delivered his best statistical performance of the season against East Tennessee State, completing 29-of-50 passes for 324 yards and three touchdowns. He engineered three touchdown drives of at least 75 yards and helped UWG turn a 21-10 halftime deficit into a 24-21 third-quarter lead.
The performance was also historically significant for the Wolves: FitzGerald became the first UWG quarterback to throw for 300 yards in a game since Quincy Casey recorded 304 yards against Shorter in 2024. Fort Valley State enters the matchup allowing only 181.3 passing yards per game, making the Wildcats' secondary against FitzGerald one of Saturday's central matchups.
West Georgia — WR Brody Jones
Jones emerged as FitzGerald's leading target in Johnson City, catching seven passes for 109 yards, including a 32-yard reception.
His performance marked West Georgia's first 100-yard receiving game since DeAndre Buchannon accomplished the feat against Abilene Christian in 2025. Jones' emergence gives FitzGerald another vertical option in a passing game that finally broke through for 347 yards last week.
West Georgia — LB Lucas Naquin
Naquin was one of West Georgia's most disruptive defenders against ETSU, finishing with 10 total tackles, two tackles for loss and one sack. He was part of a UWG defense that recorded three sacks despite facing an ETSU rushing attack that accumulated 179 yards.
His role becomes particularly important against an FVSU offense that enters Week 4 averaging 185.3 rushing yards per game and just produced 243 yards on the ground against Benedict. With Hudson, Payne and Cabellero all capable runners, Naquin and the UWG front seven will be challenged to keep the Wildcats from consistently reaching the second level.
BY THE NUMBERS
1-0 — West Georgia's all-time series advantage over Fort Valley State. The only previous meeting came in 2017.
34-9 — Final score of the first meeting on Aug. 31, 2017, when West Georgia defeated FVSU at University Stadium.
9 — Years between meetings when the Wildcats and Wolves take the field Saturday night.
1-2 — Fort Valley State's record entering Week 4. The Wildcats' two losses have come by a combined two points, 24-23 to Tuskegee and 34-33 in overtime to Benedict.
0-4 — West Georgia's record following losses to Chattanooga, Kennesaw State, Arkansas State and ETSU.
480 — Fort Valley State's total offensive yards against Benedict, including 243 rushing and 237 passing.
7.9 — FVSU's yards per offensive play against Benedict, despite the one-point overtime loss.
391.0 — Fort Valley State's average total offense through three games, with 1,173 total yards.
185.3 — FVSU's rushing yards per game, second among SIAC teams entering Week 4.
331 — Hudson's combined passing and rushing yards against Benedict: 237 through the air and 94 on the ground.
70 — Payne's second-quarter touchdown run against Benedict, the longest FVSU rushing play of the game.
411 — West Georgia's total offensive yards against ETSU, its strongest offensive showing of the season.
347 — UWG's passing yards at ETSU. The Wolves completed 30 passes and scored three touchdowns through the air.
324 — FitzGerald's passing yards against ETSU, the first 300-yard performance by a UWG quarterback since 2024.
109 — Jones' receiving yards at ETSU, West Georgia's first 100-yard receiving performance since 2025.
24-21 — West Georgia's third-quarter lead at ETSU before the Buccaneers regained control.
4-for-4 — West Georgia's red-zone scoring against ETSU, with three touchdowns and a field goal.
305 — Rushing yards accumulated by West Georgia in the 2017 meeting with Fort Valley State. UWG finished that game with 532 total yards.
WHAT TO WATCH
Can Fort Valley State turn production into a road victory?
The Wildcats have been extraordinarily close in their two losses. FVSU fell to Tuskegee by one point and then lost to Benedict by one in overtime. Saturday's challenge is translating an offense averaging 391.0 yards per game into enough points to finish against an FCS opponent.
Hudson's dual-threat ability changes the equation.
West Georgia cannot defend Fort Valley State as a conventional rushing offense. Hudson rushed for 94 yards against Benedict while also throwing for 237. Combined with Payne and Cabellero, the Wildcats had three players rush for at least 56 yards last week.
Can West Georgia build on its offensive breakthrough?
The Wolves entered ETSU searching for answers offensively and left Johnson City with 411 yards and 27 points. FitzGerald's 324-yard passing effort, Jones' 109-yard receiving performance and touchdown catches by Malik Leverett, Josh Schuchts and T.J. Lockley gave UWG several positives despite the loss.
FVSU's secondary against FitzGerald.
Fort Valley State has allowed 181.3 passing yards per game and has intercepted five passes through three games. FitzGerald is coming off the first 300-yard passing game by a UWG quarterback in nearly two years. That matchup could dictate whether West Georgia can reproduce last week's offensive success.
Explosive plays could decide the game.
FVSU produced a 70-yard Payne touchdown run, a 61-yard Pendleton reception, a 52-yard Hudson run and a 51-yard reception by Aryn Grant against Benedict. West Georgia countered at ETSU with 109 receiving yards from Jones and three touchdown drives covering 75, 75 and 80 yards.
West Georgia's FCS depth against an SIAC opponent. Saturday is FVSU's first game against a Division I FCS opponent this season. West Georgia transitioned from Division II to the FCS level in 2024, meaning this meeting has a different competitive context from the schools' only previous matchup, when both were Division II programs.
LAST TIME THEY MET
West Georgia 34, Fort Valley State 9 — Aug. 31, 2017
The programs' only previous football meeting came in the 2017 season opener at University Stadium, where West Georgia defeated Fort Valley State 34-9. UWG built a 20-0 halftime lead and extended it to 34-0 during the third quarter before FVSU scored the game's final nine points.
West Georgia controlled the game on the ground, rushing for 305 yards on 52 attempts while producing 532 yards of total offense. Travis Custis rushed for 95 yards and two touchdowns, while Willie Candler completed 17-of-24 passes for 181 yards and two touchdowns.
Fort Valley State was held to 227 total yards, including 120 rushing and 107 passing. Jamari Clark led the Wildcats with 66 rushing yards and scored FVSU's only touchdown on a 21-yard fourth-quarter run.
The Wolves' defense kept the Wildcats out of the end zone through the first three quarters while West Georgia scored on six of its seven trips into the red zone.
LAST TIME OUT — FORT VALLEY STATE
Fort Valley State dropped a dramatic 34-33 overtime decision to Benedict last Saturday at Wildcat Stadium. The Wildcats fell to 1-2 overall and 0-2 in SIAC play despite producing their most explosive offensive performance of the season.
FVSU struck first offensively when Payne broke free for a 70-yard touchdown run midway through the second quarter. A two-point conversion gave the Wildcats an 8-3 advantage. Benedict answered to take a 10-8 halftime lead, but Kennique Bonner-Steward's one-yard touchdown run put FVSU back in front 15-10 in the third quarter.
Benedict responded with 17 unanswered points to build a 27-15 fourth-quarter lead, but the Wildcats refused to go away. Hudson scored on a 12-yard run with 4:53 remaining, and after getting the ball back, FVSU drove 78 yards in only 22 seconds. Hudson found Myles Smith for a six-yard touchdown with nine seconds remaining, tying the game at 27.
Payne opened overtime with a 14-yard touchdown run to give FVSU a 33-27 lead, but the Wildcats failed on the conversion. Benedict answered immediately as Jett Peddy found Reece Dobard for a 25-yard touchdown, and Logan Karwacki's extra point produced the 34-33 final.
Fort Valley State finished with 480 total yards, averaging 7.9 yards per play. Hudson passed for 237 yards and rushed for 94, while Payne added 95 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Pendleton caught four passes for 65 yards, Aryn Grant had 54 yards on two receptions and Myles Smith caught four passes for 33 yards and the game-tying touchdown.
LAST TIME OUT — WEST GEORGIA
West Georgia fell to 0-4 following a 35-27 loss at East Tennessee State, but the Wolves turned in their most productive offensive performance of the young season.
After falling behind 7-0, FitzGerald capped an 11-play, 75-yard drive with a one-yard touchdown pass to Malik Leverett. Logan Lopez then connected on a 46-yard field goal to give West Georgia a 10-7 lead. ETSU answered with two touchdowns and carried a 21-10 advantage into halftime.
The Wolves surged in the third quarter. FitzGerald connected with Josh Schuchts for a six-yard touchdown before finding T.J. Lockley from nine yards out, completing consecutive 75- and 80-yard scoring drives and giving UWG a 24-21 lead.
The momentum shifted when ETSU's Mike Jenkins returned an interception 25 yards for a touchdown with 31 seconds left in the third quarter. ETSU later stretched the lead to 35-24 on an 88-yard touchdown pass before Lopez's 29-yard field goal produced the final margin.
UWG outgained ETSU 411-377 and held a 21-18 advantage in first downs. FitzGerald completed 29-of-50 passes for 324 yards and three touchdowns, while Jones caught seven passes for 109 yards. Leverett added five receptions for 73 yards and a touchdown, and Schuchts finished with four catches for 53 yards and a score.
Defensively, Stephan French led the Wolves with 11 tackles, while Naquin recorded 10 tackles, two tackles for loss and a sack.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 26
Central State Marauders (1-3, 1-1 SIAC) at Lane Dragons (0-4, 0-2 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: Central State leads, 10-6
Last Meeting: Central State 42, Lane 13 — Sept. 27, 2025, Rochester, N.Y.
THE MATCHUP
Central State returns to SIAC competition Saturday when the Marauders travel to Jackson, Tennessee, to face Lane in a matchup between two teams looking to rebound from Week 3 road losses. The Marauders enter at 1-3 overall and 1-1 in conference play, while Lane is 0-4 overall and 0-2 in the SIAC.
Central State comes into the matchup after an explosive offensive performance in a 41-35 loss at Arkansas-Pine Bluff. The Marauders generated 484 yards of total offense, including a remarkable 477 through the air, and scored 22 fourth-quarter points while nearly erasing a 34-7 second-half deficit. Quarterback Jackson Wasik threw for 464 yards and four touchdowns, while Nicholas Smith produced one of the conference's biggest receiving performances of the season with 11 catches for 232 yards and three scores.
Lane returns home looking to regroup following a 44-0 loss to Morehouse at Lane Field. The Dragons were limited to 184 yards of offense and committed five turnovers, including four interceptions. Lane's defense, however, produced eight tackles for loss and two sacks while Jeremiah Malbroue and Cadarius Newcomb combined for 17 tackles.
Saturday also continues a competitive recent stretch in the series. Central State won 17-14 in 2023, Lane answered with a 27-24 victory in 2024, and the Marauders responded with a decisive 42-13 win in 2025.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Central State — QB Jackson Wasik
Wasik turned in one of the most productive quarterback performances in the SIAC this season against UAPB, completing 30-of-43 passes for 464 yards and four touchdowns. He also scored Central State's first second-half touchdown on a five-yard run as the Marauders mounted a furious comeback.
Wasik was particularly effective after halftime. He threw three fourth-quarter touchdown passes — nine and 66 yards to Nicholas Smith and 12 yards to Khamari Adams — as Central State pulled within six points after trailing 34-7.
His passing ability gives CSU an obvious matchup to attack Saturday. Lane allowed Morehouse to complete 11 passes for 137 yards last week, but the larger concern for the Dragons will be preventing the explosive plays that fueled Central State's 477-yard passing performance in Pine Bluff.
Central State — WR Nicholas Smith
Smith delivered a spectacular Week 3 performance, catching 11 passes for 232 yards and three touchdowns. His scoring receptions covered 37, nine and 66 yards, and he accounted for nearly half of Central State's 477 passing yards.
The 66-yard fourth-quarter touchdown was CSU's longest offensive play of the game and cut UAPB's advantage to 41-27. Smith's combination of volume and explosive-play ability makes him the primary concern for a Lane secondary that will be challenged to prevent Wasik from establishing the same vertical rhythm he found last Saturday.
Central State — WR/KR Damon Griffin II
Griffin's Week 3 impact extended well beyond the passing game. He caught six passes for 47 yards while returning five kickoffs for 197 yards, including an 85-yard return.
That gave Griffin 244 combined receiving and kickoff-return yards against UAPB. His ability to change field position provides Central State with another potential advantage, particularly in a game where Lane will be looking to avoid giving CSU's high-volume passing attack short fields.
Lane — LB Jeremiah Malbroue
Malbroue led Lane defensively against Morehouse with nine total tackles, including six solo stops and one tackle for loss.
He will be central to Lane's effort to slow a Central State offense that ran 74 plays against Arkansas-Pine Bluff. With CSU increasingly comfortable putting the ball in Wasik's hands and spreading the field, Malbroue's ability to tackle in space could be especially important Saturday.
Lane — LB Cadarius Newcomb
Newcomb finished just behind Malbroue with eight tackles, including five assisted stops and a tackle for loss.
Lane's defense spent significant time on the field against Morehouse but still produced eight tackles for loss. Newcomb's activity in the middle of the defense will be important against a Central State offense that showed last week it can string together long drives as well as strike quickly.
Lane — WR Tametrius Pogue
Pogue was Lane's leading receiver against Morehouse, catching three passes for 43 yards, including the Dragons' longest reception of the afternoon at 30 yards.
Lane needs more offensive production after being shut out last week, and Pogue provides one of its clearest opportunities for explosive plays. The Dragons used multiple quarterbacks against Morehouse, making the ability of Pogue and fellow receiver Rkisch Hyppolite to create separation especially important against Central State.
BY THE NUMBERS
10-6 — Central State's documented series advantage entering Saturday. The SIAC listed CSU ahead 9-6 through the first 15 meetings before the Marauders won again in 2025.
42-13 — Central State's victory over Lane in the 2025 Frederick Douglass HBCU Football Classic in Rochester, New York.
29 — Central State's margin of victory last season, the largest in the last three meetings.
17-14 — Central State's victory over Lane in 2023.
27-24 — Lane's victory over Central State in Jackson in 2024.
3 — The margin in both the 2023 and 2024 meetings before CSU broke the recent pattern of close games with last year's 29-point win.
484 — Central State's total offensive yards against Arkansas-Pine Bluff last Saturday.
477 — Central State's passing yards against UAPB, compared with only seven net rushing yards.
464 — Wasik's passing yards against Arkansas-Pine Bluff.
232 — Smith's receiving yards on 11 catches against UAPB.
3 — Smith's touchdown receptions against UAPB, covering 37, nine and 66 yards.
22 — Central State's fourth-quarter points at Arkansas-Pine Bluff as the Marauders cut a 21-point deficit to six.
25 — First downs recorded by Central State against UAPB, including 19 through the passing game.
184 — Lane's total offensive yards against Morehouse, including 92 rushing and 92 passing.
5 — Lane turnovers against Morehouse — four interceptions and one lost fumble.
8 — Tackles for loss recorded by Lane's defense against Morehouse.
9 — Malbroue's team-high tackles against Morehouse.
0-4 — Lane's record entering Week 4. The Dragons are seeking their first victory of 2026.
WHAT TO WATCH
Can Central State carry its passing explosion into conference play?
Wasik and the Marauders found another level offensively at Arkansas-Pine Bluff. CSU produced 477 passing yards, four passing touchdowns and 25 first downs against an FCS opponent. The question Saturday is whether that production carries over against a Lane defense coming off a difficult afternoon against Morehouse.
Wasik-to-Smith has become a matchup Lane must account for.
Smith's 232-yard, three-touchdown performance makes it difficult for Lane to defend Central State without providing help over the top. That could create opportunities underneath for Jae-Lijah Cochran, Damon Griffin II, Avantae Burt and Khamari Adams, all of whom caught multiple passes last week.
Lane must protect the football.
The Dragons' five turnovers were devastating against Morehouse. Four different Lane passes were intercepted, including Jordan Woods' 21-yard interception return for a touchdown. Central State, meanwhile, intercepted Arkansas-Pine Bluff twice last week, with Travion Searcy and Jaylen Burrell recording the takeaways.
Can Lane establish an offensive identity?
Cameron Shepherd, Crishon Overton, Nassir Donohoo and Donovon Morton all attempted passes against Morehouse. Collectively, the Dragons finished 8-of-26 for 92 yards with four interceptions. Lane needs greater consistency at quarterback to create opportunities for Pogue, Hyppolite and the running game.
Central State must fix the ground-game imbalance.
The Marauders threw for 477 yards last week but finished with only seven net rushing yards on 29 attempts, in part because Wasik was sacked five times for 38 yards. Lane's defense recorded two sacks and eight tackles for loss against Morehouse, giving the Dragons an avenue to disrupt CSU despite the Marauders' explosive passing attack.
Recent series history says expect competition.
Before Central State's 42-13 victory last season, the previous two meetings were each decided by three points. CSU won 17-14 in 2023 before Lane answered 27-24 in 2024.
LAST TIME THEY MET
Central State 42, Lane 13 — Sept. 27, 2025
Central State delivered a decisive performance in the Frederick Douglass HBCU Football Classic at Rochester Community Sports Plex in Rochester, New York, defeating Lane 42-13 for its first victory of the 2025 season.
Lane struck first on a Peyton Nero touchdown run, but Central State answered immediately when Dai'Vontay Young broke loose for a 59-yard touchdown on the Marauders' next offensive snap. CSU took control from there and carried a 23-7 advantage into halftime.
Central State's rushing attack drove the victory. Young finished with 112 rushing yards, while quarterback Qeanu Campbell-Caldwell threw for 74 yards. Lane quarterback Nick Billoups passed for 120 yards and also led the Dragons with 64 rushing yards.
The victory snapped Lane's one-game series winning streak and increased Central State's documented advantage to 10-6 entering the 2026 meeting.
LAST TIME OUT — CENTRAL STATE
Central State nearly completed a dramatic comeback at Arkansas-Pine Bluff before falling 41-35 at Simmons Bank Field. The Marauders dropped to 1-3 overall but return to conference action Saturday still 1-1 in SIAC play.
UAPB built a 10-0 first-quarter advantage before Wasik connected with Smith for a 37-yard touchdown early in the second quarter. The Golden Lions answered and carried a 20-7 lead into halftime before scoring twice in the opening five minutes of the third quarter to extend their advantage to 34-7.
Central State then came alive. Wasik capped an 82-yard drive with a five-yard touchdown run, and the Marauders followed with a 100-yard scoring drive that ended with his nine-yard touchdown pass to Smith. After UAPB answered with a 60-yard touchdown, Wasik struck Smith for a 66-yard score and later found Khamari Adams from 12 yards out to make it 41-35 with 7:06 remaining.
The Marauders ultimately couldn't complete the comeback, but the offensive numbers were substantial: 484 total yards, 477 passing yards and 25 first downs. CSU converted both of its fourth-down attempts and scored touchdowns on all three of its red-zone trips.
Wasik completed 30-of-43 passes for 464 yards and four touchdowns. Smith caught 11 passes for 232 yards and three scores, Cochran added seven catches for 83 yards, and Griffin recorded six receptions for 47 yards while adding 197 yards on kickoff returns.
Defensively, Braylon West led CSU with nine tackles, Dylan Purry added seven, and Searcy and Burrell each recorded an interception.
LAST TIME OUT — LANE
Lane suffered a 44-0 home loss to Morehouse last Saturday at Lane Field. The Dragons fell to 0-4 overall and 0-2 in SIAC play.
Morehouse led 7-0 after one quarter and 14-0 at halftime before a Davis Rowe field goal increased the margin to 17-0 in the third. Lane remained within three possessions entering the fourth quarter, but turnovers and explosive plays allowed Morehouse to break the game open with 27 fourth-quarter points.
The Dragons finished with 184 total yards, evenly divided between 92 rushing and 92 passing. Lane managed 11 first downs and converted three of 11 third-down opportunities.
Shepherd completed six passes for 62 yards and also led Lane with 36 rushing yards. Pogue caught three passes for 43 yards, while Hyppolite added three receptions for 34 yards.
Lane's defense produced some positives despite the final score. Malbroue finished with nine tackles and Newcomb had eight, while Boris Melton III and Donovan Barnes each recorded a sack.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 26
Miles Golden Bears (1-3, 1-1 SIAC) at Savannah State Tigers (0-3, 0-2 SIAC)Kickoff: 6 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. CT
Location: Theodore A. "Ted" Wright Stadium — Savannah, Ga.
Game: Student Organizations Day / Greek Day / Student Appreciation Day, presented by Savannah State's College of Business Administration
Weather: Savannah, Ga. Forecast
Watch: SIAC Network
Live Stats: Savannah State Live Stats
Series: Savannah State leads, 14-4
Last Meeting: Savannah State 45, Miles 19 — Sept. 20, 2025, Fairfield, Ala.
THE MATCHUP
Miles and Savannah State meet Saturday night in Savannah with both programs coming off dramatically different Week 3 performances.
Miles enters at 1-3 overall and 1-1 in the SIAC after earning its first victory of the season with a 27-14 comeback win at Clark Atlanta. The Golden Bears trailed 14-0 before senior quarterback Anthony Mix came off the bench and changed the game. Miles scored the final 27 points, rushed for 252 yards, held Clark Atlanta scoreless after the second quarter and forced two interceptions.
Savannah State returns home at 0-3 overall and 0-2 in conference play following a 55-30 loss at Edward Waters. Although the Tigers remain in search of their first victory, the 30-point performance represented their best offensive output of the season. Savannah State generated 275 yards, recorded 20 first downs, converted 8-of-18 third downs and scored on all four of its red-zone opportunities.
The matchup presents an interesting contrast. Miles found a powerful rushing formula last week after struggling offensively through its first three games, while Savannah State has increasingly leaned on quarterback RaShawn Truell and its passing game. Through Week 3, Miles is averaging 294.8 yards of offense, including 119.8 rushing yards per game, while Savannah State averages 207.3 total yards and only 43.3 rushing yards per game.
The Tigers, however, will have home field and recent series history on their side. Savannah State defeated Miles 45-19 last season in Fairfield, scoring in all three phases. Saturday will be Miles' first trip to Savannah since the Tigers officially rejoined the SIAC in 2019.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Miles — QB Anthony Mix
Mix provided the spark Miles had been searching for when he entered last week's game with the Golden Bears trailing 14-0. In his first significant action of the season, the senior completed 7-of-18 passes for 84 yards and a touchdown while producing an extraordinary 162 rushing yards on 11 carries, an average of 14.7 yards per attempt.
His biggest play came with 2:42 remaining when he broke free for a 67-yard touchdown run that put the game away. Mix also directed touchdown drives of 75 and 64 yards during Miles' 17-point second quarter.
That performance is particularly noteworthy entering Saturday because Savannah State is allowing 223.3 rushing yards per game through its first three contests. Mix's dual-threat ability could present a difficult assignment for the Tigers if Miles continues using him extensively.
Miles — RB Roderick Thomas
Thomas gave Miles a steady presence in the backfield alongside Mix, carrying 12 times for 49 yards and a touchdown. His three-yard scoring run midway through the second quarter began the Golden Bears' comeback from the 14-point deficit.
Through four games, Thomas has 116 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 39 carries. His three rushing scores are the most among Miles running backs listed in the current SIAC statistical leaders.
With Mix now providing another major rushing threat at quarterback, Thomas could benefit from defenses having to account for the quarterback in the run game.
Miles — LB Gary Byers
Byers turned in another disruptive performance against Clark Atlanta, finishing with five tackles, two tackles for loss totaling 18 yards and a forced fumble.
His season production is equally significant. The current SIAC statistics credit Byers with four tackles for loss through four games, an average of 1.0 per contest.
Byers could be especially important against a Savannah State offense that has struggled to establish the run and has surrendered pressure in the backfield. Edward Waters recorded four sacks against the Tigers last week.
Savannah State — QB RaShawn Truell
Truell continued to emerge as the centerpiece of Savannah State's offense last week. He completed 23-of-45 passes for 239 yards and two touchdowns without an interception against Edward Waters.
He threw a five-yard touchdown to Tristan Sizemore just before halftime and connected with Jordan Anderson for a 14-yard score in the third quarter.
In his two appearances reflected among the SIAC passing leaders, Truell has completed 32-of-62 passes for 410 yards and four touchdowns, averaging 205.0 passing yards per game. He now faces a Miles defense allowing 215.8 passing yards per game.
Savannah State — RB/WR Elijah Stephens
Stephens was one of Savannah State's most versatile offensive players last Saturday. He led the Tigers with 47 receiving yards on three catches and added 16 rushing yards and a touchdown on nine carries.
His two-yard touchdown run with 11:38 remaining pulled Savannah State within 45-30 and capped a seven-play, 58-yard drive.
With the Tigers struggling to generate consistent rushing production — only 130 rushing yards through three games — Stephens' ability to contribute both from the backfield and as a receiver gives Truell an important option against Miles.
Savannah State — LB Kaiden Stanciel
Stanciel recorded five tackles and a tackle for loss against Edward Waters.
The conference statistics list him at 6.5 tackles per game, the best current average among Savannah State players appearing in the SIAC's tackle leaders, along with 1.5 tackles for loss.
His assignment becomes particularly important after Miles rushed for 252 yards against Clark Atlanta. Stanciel and the Savannah State front will have to account for Thomas while also maintaining discipline against Mix's ability to pull the ball and create explosive runs.
BY THE NUMBERS
14-4 — Savannah State's documented series advantage over Miles following last season's victory.
19 — Saturday will be the 19th documented meeting between the Golden Bears and Tigers.
45-19 — Savannah State's victory at Miles in the 2025 Prince Hall Americanism Football Classic.
26 — Savannah State's margin of victory in last year's meeting.
2019 — Miles' last trip to Savannah and the season in which Savannah State officially returned to the SIAC. Miles' 2026 schedule announcement specifically identifies Saturday as its first game in Savannah since that return.
27 — Unanswered points scored by Miles after falling behind Clark Atlanta 14-0 last Saturday.
252 — Miles rushing yards against Clark Atlanta, its highest rushing output through the first four games.
162 — Rushing yards by Anthony Mix on just 11 carries against Clark Atlanta.
14.7 — Mix's average yards per rushing attempt last week.
67 — Yards on Mix's fourth-quarter touchdown run that put Miles ahead 27-14.
2 — Interceptions by the Miles defense against Clark Atlanta. Jacobi Whitfield and Donsha Gaither recorded the takeaways.
30 — Points scored by Savannah State against Edward Waters, the Tigers' highest output through their first three games.
239 — Truell's passing yards against Edward Waters.
20 — First downs recorded by Savannah State last week, including 12 through the passing game.
8-of-18 — Savannah State's third-down conversion performance against Edward Waters.
4-for-4 — Savannah State's red-zone scoring performance last week.
11 — Tackles for loss recorded by Savannah State against Edward Waters despite allowing 55 points.
32:20 — Miles' average time of possession through four games, among the strongest marks in the current SIAC team statistics. Savannah State averages 27:29.
WHAT TO WATCH
Does Miles stay with Anthony Mix?
The biggest storyline is at quarterback. Brinley Vandiver entered the season as Miles' primary quarterback and remains the Golden Bears' leading passer with 602 yards, but Mix changed the complexion of the offense against Clark Atlanta. His 162 rushing yards gave Miles a dimension it had not shown consistently during its 0-3 start. Whether Mix starts or again plays a significant role, Savannah State must prepare for his legs.
Miles' rushing attack against Savannah State's run defense.
This may be the defining matchup. Miles exploded for 252 rushing yards and 7.0 yards per carry last week. Savannah State enters allowing 223.3 rushing yards per game. If Miles can reproduce anything close to its Clark Atlanta performance, the Golden Bears can control possession and limit Truell's opportunities.
Savannah State's improving passing game.
The Tigers scored only 17 combined points in their first two games before putting 30 on Edward Waters. Truell has thrown four touchdowns over the last two games and completed passes to nine different receivers last week. That distribution makes Savannah State more difficult to defend than a team dependent on one primary target.
Can Savannah State protect Truell?
The Tigers surrendered four sacks against Edward Waters, including a costly third-quarter strip-sack. Miles counters with Byers and Kingston Lowe. Lowe has 4.5 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks in the current SIAC statistics, while Byers has four tackles for loss.
Turnovers could decide the game.
Miles played turnover-free offensively against Clark Atlanta while intercepting two passes. Savannah State threw no interceptions at Edward Waters, but a third-quarter fumble gave EWU possession deep in Tiger territory. Ball security becomes especially important in what could be a much tighter game than either team played last week.
Third down favors neither offense statistically.
Savannah State has converted 31.8 percent of its third downs this season, while Miles sits at 24.5 percent. But the Tigers were 8-of-18 last week, a notable improvement. Whichever offense can consistently stay on the field could dictate the pace.
LAST TIME THEY MET
Savannah State 45, Miles 19 — Sept. 20, 2025
Savannah State used contributions from offense, defense and special teams to defeat Miles 45-19 at Albert J. Sloan-Alumni Stadium in Fairfield in the Prince Hall Americanism Football Classic.
Miles actually struck first and later tied the game 17-17 with 2:10 remaining in the second quarter. Savannah State responded immediately, however, driving 76 yards in nine plays before Fabian Walker connected with Cinsere Clark for a 16-yard touchdown that sent the Tigers into halftime leading 24-17.
Savannah State then took control after halftime, scoring 28 of the game's final 30 points. The Tigers finished with 309 yards of offense while holding Miles to 276 total yards and just 59 rushing yards.
Clark caught four passes for 80 yards and two touchdowns, while the Savannah State defense generated multiple turnovers. Trevor Strowbridge returned a fumble for a touchdown, and the Tigers also received a special-teams score.
The victory increased Savannah State's documented series advantage to 14-4.
LAST TIME OUT — MILES
Miles earned its first victory of the 2026 season with a 27-14 road win over Clark Atlanta.
The Golden Bears found themselves trailing 14-0 after Clark Atlanta scored on its first-quarter possession and again early in the second quarter. Miles then turned to Mix, and the complexion of the game changed.
Roderick Thomas capped a 75-yard drive with a three-yard touchdown run to cut the deficit to 14-7. Miles followed with a 64-yard scoring drive, with Mix finding Jaiden Jones for a 10-yard touchdown to tie the game. Rourke Davis then connected from 34 yards as time expired to give the Golden Bears a 17-14 halftime advantage.
Davis added a 44-yard field goal in the third quarter before Mix broke loose for his 67-yard touchdown with 2:42 remaining.
Miles finished with 370 total yards, including 252 rushing, while holding Clark Atlanta to 209 total yards. The Golden Bears possessed the ball for 31:51 and scored on all three red-zone trips.
Mix finished with 246 yards of total offense — 162 rushing and 84 passing — while Thomas added 49 rushing yards. James Gatewood led Miles with 54 receiving yards, and Jaiden Jones caught three passes for 41 yards and a touchdown.
Defensively, Gary Byers, Tre Jones and Christian Kelley each recorded five tackles. Byers had two tackles for loss and a forced fumble, Kingston Lowe recorded a sack, and Whitfield and Gaither each intercepted a pass.
LAST TIME OUT — SAVANNAH STATE
Savannah State fell 55-30 at Edward Waters but produced its most productive offensive showing of the young season.
Edward Waters jumped ahead 21-0 before Rodney Hill capped a 16-play, 78-yard drive with a one-yard touchdown. Truell then found Sizemore for a five-yard touchdown with three seconds remaining before halftime, cutting the deficit to 35-14.
The Tigers continued fighting after halftime. Joshua Woodley connected on a 43-yard field goal, Truell found Jordan Anderson for a 14-yard touchdown, and Stephens scored on a two-yard run early in the fourth quarter.
Savannah State accumulated 275 yards, with 239 coming through the air. The Tigers recorded 20 first downs, converted eight third downs and went 4-for-4 in the red zone.
Truell completed 23-of-45 attempts for 239 yards and two touchdowns without an interception. Stephens led the receiving corps with 47 yards, Clark caught a team-high five passes, and Sizemore finished with four receptions for 42 yards and a touchdown.
Zamarian Williams led the defense with eight tackles and two tackles for loss in the attached official box score; Stanciel and Kevin Stokes Jr. each added five tackles. Savannah State recorded 11 tackles for loss, two sacks and an interception by Cameron Leonard.
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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.