Savannah, Ga. — A new era of Edward Waters University football kicks off this weekend as the Tigers open the 2025 season on the road against the Savannah State Tigers on Saturday, August 30. Under the direction of interim head coach Brian Jenkins, Edward Waters will look to make a statement in their first contest of the season.
TICKET INFORMATION:
Tickets Must Be Purchased Online At
http://SSUAthletics.com/Tickets
BOADCAST INFORMATION:
Channel: ESPN+
Broadcasters: Todd Corder/J. J. Jurjevic
Broadcast Link:
https://www.espn.com/watch/player?id=319ac8a3-f57c-4f7c-ae42-0234e5669889
Live Stats Link:
https://ssuathletics.com/sidearmstats/football/summary
WEATHER REPORT:
The projected game-time forecast calls for partly cloudy skies with temperatures in the low 80s and a slight chance of rain — perfect conditions for an exciting season opener under the lights.
NEW LEADERSHIP IN TIGER NATION
Edward Waters enters the 2025 campaign under interim head coach Brian Jenkins, who makes his debut as the lead man on the EWU sidelines this weekend. Jenkins, a veteran coach with extensive FCS and Division II experience, takes over a program eager to build momentum this season
Meanwhile, Savannah State is led by head coach Aaron Kelton, who is entering his fourth season at the helm. Under Kelton, SSU has steadily developed into one of the SIAC's most competitive programs.
COACHING RECORDS:
Brian Jenkins (EWU): 0-0, 1st season
Aaron Kelton (SSU): 15-12, 4th season
SERIES HISTORY
Saturday marks another chapter in the longstanding rivalry between the two Tiger programs. Savannah State holds the edge in the all-time series, but Edward Waters has grown increasingly competitive in recent matchups.
In 2024, Savannah State escaped with a 27-20 victory in Jacksonville, while in 2023, EWU captured a 26-25 victory on the road. The Tigers will look to reverse recent history and capture their first SIAC win of season.
EDWARD WATERS TIGERS PREVIEW
The Edward Waters offense will be led by transfer veteran quarterbacks
Demetrius Boney (Florida A&M) and
Noah Bodden (Southern) who looks to ignite a balanced attack supported by running back Brady Tillaman and wideout
Makai Lovett. Defensively, EWU returns a core group anchored by standout defensive lineman Tyreese Willams, who led the team with 8.5 sacks last season, and defensive back Aykenon Rogers, a turnover specialist in the secondary.
Under Coach Jenkins' leadership, the Tigers are expected to emphasize tempo on offense and discipline on defense, making this opener a true measuring stick for the program's growth.
SAVANNAH STATE TIGERS PREVIEW
Savannah State enters the season looking to build on a 5-5 record in 2024 and is widely considered a contender in the SIAC. Dual-threat quarterback Christian Burks returns after throwing for 469 yards last season in a back up role, paired with an explosive running back in Joe Hampton.
Defensively, SSU boasts one of the conference's top front sevens, led by Preseason All-SIAC defensive linemen Xavier Esquillen and Gary Davis, Jr.
LOOKING AHEAD
After the season opener in Savannah, Edward Waters will return home to Nathaniel Glover Field & Stadium for their home opener on Saturday, September 6, against Miles College. Kickoff for that contest is set for 4:00 p.m., as the Tigers look to bring Tiger Nation out in full force.
Follow The Tigers
For complete coverage of Edward Waters University Athletics, follow the Tigers on social media @EWU_Athletics (Twitter), /EWUTigers (Facebook) and @EWU_Athletics (Instagram) or visit the official home of Edward Waters Athletics at EWUTigerPride.com.
