Savannah, Ga. – The Edward Waters University football team opened its 2025 season in emphatic fashion, storming back from an early deficit to earn a commanding 41-14 victory over rival Savannah State at Theodore A. Wright Stadium on Saturday evening.
Despite falling behind 14-0 in the opening quarter, the Tigers responded with 41 unanswered points and showcased dominance in all three phases of the game. The victory marks the second consecutive season-opening win for Edward Waters and the first under interim head coach Brian Jenkins.
The EWU Tigers are now 1-0 on the season with as 1-0 mark in Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) play.
Offensive Firepower Leads the Way
Transfer quarterback Noah Bodden made a strong debut for the Purple & Orange, completing 18 of 27 passes for 220 yards and two touchdowns while adding a rushing score. Bodden's poise and efficiency helped ignite the Tigers' comeback after their slow start.
Sophomore wide receiver Aiden Showers shined as Bodden's top target, hauling in six receptions for 108 yards and two touchdowns, including a pair of highlight-reel grabs that energized the Edward Waters sideline.
On the ground, running back Johntarrious Thomas powered the rushing attack, tallying 81 yards on 17 carries, consistently moving the chains and setting up scoring opportunities.
Defense Sets the Tone Early
Edward Waters' defense suffocated Savannah State's offense after the start of the opening quarter, forcing four total turnovers, including three in the first period that completely swung the momentum.
Linebacker Trevon French led the defensive charge with nine total tackles, including eight solo stops and two tackles for loss. David Law-Mortimer made one of the game's biggest plays, returning a fumble 54 yards for a touchdown to give the Tigers their first defensive score of the season.
Senior transfer linebacker Jaylen Brown added a spectacular sideline toe-tapping interception while contributing four tackles. In the trenches, Lemar Harris and Chase Quarterman each recorded sacks, with Harris also recovering a fumble and Quarterman forcing one on his lone tackle of the contest.
Special Teams Sparks the Comeback
Momentum truly shifted in the middle of the opening quarter when Jacksonville native, Kieren Jackson electrified the Edward Waters faithful with a 90-yard kickoff return touchdown, the Tigers' first score of the season.
Kicker Ryan Gagne was flawless on the night, going a perfect 7-for-7 on extra points and field goals, giving EWU consistency in the kicking game to complement its offensive and defensive dominance.
Up Next
With the win, Edward Waters (1-0) looks to carry its momentum into the 2025 home opener against Miles College on Saturday, September 6. Kickoff is set for 4:00 p.m. at Nathaniel Glover Stadium, and the game will be nationally televised on ESPN+.
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.
