EDWARD WATERS (6-2, 5-1 SIAC) AT CENTRAL STATE (5-3, 5-1 SIAC)
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2026
Kickoff: 1 p.m. ET
Location: McPherson Stadium — Wilberforce, Ohio
Weather: Wilberforce, Ohio Forecast
Watch: HBCU Go
Live Stats: Central State Athletics
Series: Tied 2-2 in four previous meetings
Last Meeting: Central State 21, Edward Waters 17 — November 1, 2025, Jacksonville, Florida
NCAA NPI: Edward Waters No. 2; Central State No. 5 in Super Region Two
One of the most consequential matchups on the Week 9 SIAC schedule takes place Saturday when Edward Waters travels to Ohio to face Central State in a meeting of two teams carrying identical 5-1 conference records. Both programs enter the contest following commanding victories and remain firmly involved in the conference championship picture. Edward Waters has won six of its first eight games and continues to demonstrate one of the league's most explosive offensive attacks, while Central State has emerged as a formidable contender behind an increasingly productive offense and a defense capable of creating game-changing plays.
Edward Waters enters the contest following a dominant 62-14 Homecoming victory over Clark Atlanta, producing 600 yards of total offense and scoring nine touchdowns. The Tigers displayed exceptional balance, rushing for 224 yards while adding 376 passing yards, and averaged 10.2 yards per offensive play. Quarterback Tavion Faulk delivered a remarkable performance with five touchdown passes and two rushing scores, while running back Johntarrious Thomas rushed for 132 yards. Edward Waters scored 34 unanswered points to open the game before Clark Atlanta got on the scoreboard and maintained control throughout the afternoon.
Central State was equally impressive in its 48-20 road victory over Miles, generating 426 yards of total offense while scoring seven touchdowns. Quarterback Jackson Wasik accounted for five touchdowns, including four through the air, as the Marauders built a 27-10 halftime advantage and pulled away during the second half. Central State also demonstrated its defensive playmaking ability, recording six sacks, forcing three turnovers and limiting Miles' ability to sustain drives despite the Golden Bears accumulating 353 yards of offense.
Saturday's contest features two highly productive quarterbacks and offenses capable of scoring quickly. Edward Waters will attempt to maintain its offensive efficiency against a Central State defense that generated 10 tackles for loss against Miles, while the Marauders will look to establish their own offensive rhythm against a Tigers defense that recorded 13 tackles for loss and two interceptions against Clark Atlanta. With both programs seeking to strengthen their position in the SIAC standings and NCAA Division II postseason picture, execution in the passing game, turnover margin and defensive pressure will be central to the outcome.
THE MATCHUP
Edward Waters enters Saturday with considerable momentum following one of its most complete performances of the season. The Tigers scored touchdowns on eight offensive possessions against Clark Atlanta and added a special teams touchdown, showcasing the depth of their offensive personnel and their ability to produce points in multiple phases of the game. Faulk completed 19 of 22 passes for 367 yards and five touchdowns without an interception, distributing the football to five different touchdown receivers while also scoring twice on the ground.
Central State will counter with a similarly versatile offensive attack led by Wasik, who completed 16 of 23 passes for 269 yards and four touchdowns against Miles. The Marauders rushed for 157 yards, with Isaiah Thompson leading the way with 83 yards on 15 carries. Central State's offensive efficiency was particularly evident inside the red zone, where the Marauders converted all six opportunities into touchdowns. The ability to finish drives will be especially important against an Edward Waters team that demonstrated the capacity to score on nearly every possession last Saturday.
The matchup along the line of scrimmage could be decisive. Edward Waters recorded 13 tackles for loss against Clark Atlanta, led by Trevon French's 4.5 stops behind the line. Central State was similarly disruptive against Miles, generating 10 tackles for loss and six sacks, including three sacks from Joe Hudson. Both defenses have demonstrated an ability to create negative plays, making offensive protection and early-down efficiency essential for each team.
The Tigers will also seek to capitalize on their explosive receiving corps, led by Tylon Williams, who caught six passes for 171 yards against Clark Atlanta. Central State counters with Damon Griffin Jr., Avantae Burt and Nicholas Smith Jr., each of whom scored receiving touchdowns against Miles. The secondary that best limits explosive passing plays could provide its team with a significant advantage in a game featuring two offenses capable of producing touchdowns from anywhere on the field.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Edward Waters - QB Tavion Faulk
Faulk leads an Edward Waters offense averaging a conference-best 461.1 total yards and 41.8 points per game. Against Clark Atlanta, he completed 19 of 22 passes for 367 yards and five touchdowns without an interception while adding 33 rushing yards and two scores. Accounting for seven touchdowns in the Tigers' 62-14 victory, Faulk demonstrated exceptional efficiency and big-play ability. His performance against Central State's aggressive defensive front will be critical in a matchup featuring two of the SIAC's highest-scoring offenses.
Edward Waters - RB Johntarrious Thomas
Thomas provides Edward Waters with an explosive rushing threat capable of complementing its high-powered passing attack. Against Clark Atlanta, he rushed for 132 yards on 14 carries, averaging 9.4 yards per attempt and producing a 50-yard run. His performance helped the Tigers accumulate 224 rushing yards and establish offensive balance. Against a Central State defense allowing 205.3 rushing yards per game, Thomas could play a significant role in controlling possession and creating scoring opportunities.
Edward Waters - WR Tylon Williams
Williams remains one of Edward Waters' most dangerous receiving threats and delivered an outstanding performance against Clark Atlanta, catching six passes for 171 yards and a touchdown. His production included a 58-yard reception and a 78-yard touchdown catch that extended the Tigers' lead in the third quarter. Averaging 28.5 yards per reception, Williams demonstrated his ability to stretch defenses and create explosive plays. His matchup against Central State's secondary will be important to Edward Waters' offensive success.
Edward Waters - LB Trevon French
French delivered one of the SIAC's most disruptive defensive performances in Week 8, recording 10 tackles and 4.5 tackles for loss against Clark Atlanta. His activity in the backfield helped Edward Waters register 13 tackles for loss and limit the Panthers to 101 rushing yards. French's ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks and disrupt rushing plays will be especially important against a Central State offense averaging 430.1 total yards per game.
Central State - QB Jackson Wasik
Wasik leads a Central State offense averaging 430.1 total yards and 35.3 points per game, ranking second in the SIAC in both categories. Against Miles, he completed 16 of 23 passes for 269 yards and four touchdowns while adding 41 rushing yards and another score. Accounting for five touchdowns, Wasik demonstrated his ability to attack defenses through the air and on the ground. His efficiency and decision-making will be critical against an Edward Waters defense capable of generating pressure and turnovers.
Central State - RB Isaiah Thompson
Thompson provides Central State with a dependable rushing presence and helps establish balance in the Marauders' offensive attack. Against Miles, he rushed for 83 yards on 15 carries, averaging 5.5 yards per attempt, while adding a 13-yard reception. His ability to generate consistent yardage on early downs creates favorable passing situations for Wasik. Thompson will be counted on to establish the running game against an Edward Waters defense allowing 138.8 rushing yards per contest.
Central State - WR Damon Griffin Jr.
Griffin remains one of Central State's primary receiving threats and contributed five receptions for 79 yards and a touchdown against Miles. His six-yard scoring reception gave the Marauders their first lead, while his 88 kickoff return yards provided additional value on special teams. Griffin's versatility and ability to make timely receptions will be important against an Edward Waters defense that has demonstrated the ability to create turnovers and limit opposing offenses.
Central State - DL Joe Hudson
Hudson enters Saturday following a dominant defensive performance against Miles, recording 13 tackles, four tackles for loss, three sacks, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery. His production helped Central State register six sacks and force three turnovers in its 48-20 victory. Hudson's ability to penetrate the backfield and pressure opposing quarterbacks will be particularly important against Faulk and an Edward Waters offense averaging 336.5 passing yards per game.
BY THE NUMBERS
5-1 — Edward Waters' SIAC record entering Week 9.
5-1 — Central State's conference record entering Saturday.
461.1 — Edward Waters' approximate total offensive yards per game.
430.1 — Central State's approximate total offensive yards per game.
600 — Total offensive yards for Edward Waters against Clark Atlanta.
426 — Total offensive yards for Central State against Miles.
376 — Passing yards for Edward Waters against Clark Atlanta.
269 — Passing yards for Central State against Miles.
224 — Rushing yards for Edward Waters against Clark Atlanta.
157 — Rushing yards for Central State against Miles.
367 — Passing yards for Edward Waters quarterback Tavion Faulk against Clark Atlanta.
171 — Receiving yards for Edward Waters wide receiver Tylon Williams against Clark Atlanta.
132 — Rushing yards for Edward Waters running back Johntarrious Thomas against Clark Atlanta.
7 — Total touchdowns accounted for by Edward Waters quarterback Tavion Faulk against Clark Atlanta.
4 — Touchdown passes thrown by Central State quarterback Jackson Wasik against Miles.
6 — Sacks recorded by Central State's defense against Miles.
3 — Turnovers forced by Central State against Miles.
13 — Tackles for loss recorded by Edward Waters against Clark Atlanta.
10 — Tackles for loss recorded by Central State against Miles.
62-14 — Edward Waters' Week 8 victory over Clark Atlanta.
48-20 — Central State's Week 8 victory over Miles.
No. 2 — Edward Waters' position in the October 25 Super Region Two NPI rankings.
No. 5 — Central State's position in the October 25 Super Region Two NPI rankings.
WHAT TO WATCH
Can Edward Waters Maintain Its Offensive Explosion?
Edward Waters enters Saturday following a performance in which nearly every phase of its offense operated at an exceptional level. The Tigers generated 600 total yards against Clark Atlanta, including 376 through the air and 224 on the ground, while averaging 10.2 yards per offensive play. Faulk accounted for seven touchdowns, and five different receivers caught scoring passes, demonstrating the difficulty opponents face when attempting to contain the Tigers' offensive personnel.
Central State presents a different defensive challenge. The Marauders recorded six sacks and 10 tackles for loss against Miles, with Hudson producing three sacks and four tackles for loss. Edward Waters must protect Faulk and prevent Central State's defensive front from disrupting the timing of its passing game. If the Tigers can maintain the offensive efficiency displayed against Clark Atlanta, they will have an opportunity to challenge a Marauders defense allowing more than 400 yards per contest.
Can Central State Contain Tavion Faulk?
Containing Faulk will be one of Central State's most important defensive objectives. Against Clark Atlanta, the Edward Waters quarterback completed 86.4 percent of his passes while accounting for seven touchdowns. His ability to distribute the football to multiple receivers makes the Tigers difficult to defend with traditional coverage approaches.
Hudson, Bradley and Powers will be central to Central State's effort to disrupt the Edward Waters passing attack. The Marauders must generate pressure while maintaining discipline in their rushing lanes, as Faulk has demonstrated the ability to create plays with his legs. If Central State can force the Tigers into longer third-down situations and prevent explosive completions, the Marauders could limit the offensive rhythm that has helped Edward Waters lead the conference in scoring.
The Quarterback Duel: Faulk vs. Wasik
Saturday features two of the SIAC's most productive quarterbacks, both entering the matchup following five-touchdown passing or total-touchdown performances. Faulk threw five touchdown passes and added two rushing scores against Clark Atlanta, while Wasik threw four touchdown passes and added a rushing touchdown against Miles.
Both quarterbacks have demonstrated the ability to produce explosive plays while distributing the football across multiple receiving targets. Faulk completed 19 of 22 passes last Saturday, while Wasik completed 16 of 23 attempts. The quarterback who best protects the football, converts third downs and capitalizes on red-zone opportunities could provide his team with a significant advantage in a matchup between the conference's two highest-scoring offenses.
Can Edward Waters Exploit Central State's Run Defense?
Although Edward Waters is recognized primarily for its passing attack, Thomas demonstrated the Tigers' ability to establish a productive rushing game against Clark Atlanta. His 132-yard performance helped Edward Waters generate 224 rushing yards, creating additional opportunities for Faulk and the receiving corps.
Central State enters Saturday allowing 205.3 rushing yards per game, a figure that could provide Edward Waters with an opportunity to establish offensive balance. If Thomas can consistently generate positive yardage on early downs, the Tigers could force the Marauders to commit additional defenders near the line of scrimmage, creating favorable matchups for Williams, Malveaux and Paulk.
Will Defensive Pressure Determine the Outcome?
Both teams demonstrated outstanding defensive pressure during Week 8. Edward Waters recorded 13 tackles for loss against Clark Atlanta, while Central State produced 10 tackles for loss and six sacks against Miles. French led the Tigers with 4.5 tackles for loss, while Hudson recorded three sacks for the Marauders.
Those performances create an intriguing matchup between productive offenses and aggressive defensive fronts. Both quarterbacks will need protection, and both coaching staffs will likely emphasize quick passing concepts, efficient rushing plays and offensive adjustments designed to neutralize pressure. The defense that creates the most negative plays without surrendering explosive gains could influence the outcome.
Turnovers and Field Position
Edward Waters forced two interceptions against Clark Atlanta and did not commit a turnover, allowing the Tigers to maintain offensive momentum throughout the afternoon. Central State forced three turnovers against Miles, including two fumble recoveries and an interception, and capitalized on favorable field position to build a commanding first-half advantage.
Both teams possess offenses capable of scoring quickly, making turnovers particularly costly. A takeaway that provides either team with a short field could dramatically alter the momentum of Saturday's contest. Special teams may also play an important role, particularly after Edward Waters scored on a 25-yard punt return by King-William Johnson against Clark Atlanta.
Red-Zone Efficiency
Central State was perfect inside the red zone against Miles, scoring six touchdowns on six opportunities. The Marauders' ability to finish drives was a major factor in their 48-point performance, particularly as Miles managed only two touchdowns on five red-zone possessions.
Edward Waters was similarly effective against Clark Atlanta, scoring touchdowns on all five of its red-zone opportunities. The Tigers also demonstrated their ability to score from outside the red zone, including a 78-yard touchdown pass from Faulk to Williams. With both teams entering Saturday following highly efficient offensive performances, red-zone execution could determine which program maintains its position among the SIAC's championship contenders.
LAST TIME OUT — EDWARD WATERS
Edward Waters 62, Clark Atlanta 14
October 24, 2026 — Nathaniel Glover Community Field & Stadium, Jacksonville, Florida
Edward Waters delivered one of the most dominant performances of the 2026 SIAC football season Saturday, defeating Clark Atlanta 62-14 in Jacksonville. The Tigers improved to 6-2 overall and 5-1 in conference play after producing 600 yards of total offense, scoring nine touchdowns and controlling the contest from the opening possession.
The Tigers established their offensive rhythm immediately, marching 75 yards in seven plays on their opening drive. Faulk capped the possession with a one-yard touchdown run to give Edward Waters a 7-0 lead. The Tigers extended their advantage later in the first quarter when Faulk connected with Paulk for a 27-yard touchdown pass, then added another score on a 23-yard touchdown reception by Davari Morris. Edward Waters led 20-0 before Clark Atlanta scored on the final play of the opening quarter.
The second quarter featured two additional Edward Waters touchdown drives. Faulk connected with Kyron Burroughs for a 19-yard touchdown pass before finding Malveaux for a 20-yard scoring reception, extending the Tigers' lead to 34-7 at halftime. The offense demonstrated exceptional efficiency throughout the opening half, consistently generating explosive plays and converting scoring opportunities into touchdowns.
Edward Waters continued to build its advantage during the third quarter. King-William Johnson returned a punt 25 yards for a touchdown, extending the lead to 41-7. The Tigers followed with an 11-play, 64-yard touchdown drive capped by Camren Stewart's 13-yard run. After Clark Atlanta scored on a 34-yard touchdown run by Trayvon Pinder, Faulk responded immediately with a 78-yard touchdown pass to Williams, pushing the lead to 55-14.
Faulk completed the scoring early in the fourth quarter with a nine-yard touchdown run, giving Edward Waters a 62-14 advantage. The Tigers finished with 31 first downs and converted six of eight third-down opportunities while scoring touchdowns on all five red-zone possessions.
Faulk completed 19 of 22 passes for 367 yards and five touchdowns without an interception, while adding 33 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Thomas led the rushing attack with 132 yards on 14 carries, while Williams recorded six receptions for 171 yards and a touchdown. Malveaux contributed five catches for 70 yards and a score, while Paulk added three receptions for 53 yards and a touchdown.
Defensively, Edward Waters limited Clark Atlanta to 308 total yards and recorded 13 tackles for loss. French led the Tigers with 10 tackles and 4.5 tackles for loss, while Moss added seven tackles and two pass breakups. Youman and D'Juan Grant each recorded interceptions, contributing to a defensive performance that prevented Clark Atlanta from establishing consistent offensive momentum.
The victory strengthened Edward Waters' position among the SIAC championship contenders and provided the Tigers with significant momentum entering Saturday's matchup against Central State.
LAST TIME OUT — CENTRAL STATE
Central State 48, Miles 20
October 24, 2026 — Albert J. Sloan–Alumni Stadium, Fairfield, Alabama
Central State continued its strong conference campaign Saturday with a 48-20 victory over Miles in Fairfield. The Marauders improved to 5-3 overall and 5-1 in SIAC play after generating 426 total yards, forcing three turnovers and producing seven touchdowns against the Golden Bears.
Miles opened the contest with a 24-yard field goal from Rourke Davis after Whitfield intercepted Wasik on Central State's opening possession. The Marauders responded with an 11-play, 80-yard touchdown drive, capped by Wasik's six-yard scoring pass to Griffin. Central State added another touchdown late in the first quarter when Wasik scored on a 14-yard run, giving the Marauders a 14-3 advantage.
Central State extended its lead during the second quarter by capitalizing on Miles turnovers and favorable field position. Wasik connected with Wright for a five-yard touchdown pass before Richardson scored on a two-yard run, pushing the lead to 27-3. Miles responded late in the half with a one-yard touchdown run by Mix, but the Marauders entered halftime holding a 27-10 advantage.
The Golden Bears attempted to regain momentum during the third quarter, assembling a 13-play, 49-yard drive that resulted in a 37-yard field goal by Davis. Central State responded immediately when Wasik connected with Burt for a 48-yard touchdown pass, extending the Marauders' advantage to 34-13.
Richardson added his second rushing touchdown early in the fourth quarter, scoring from seven yards out to extend Central State's lead to 41-13. Miles answered with an eight-yard touchdown run by Mix, but the Marauders completed the scoring when Wasik connected with Smith for a 16-yard touchdown pass with 3:50 remaining.
Wasik finished with 269 passing yards and four touchdowns while adding 41 rushing yards and a score. Thompson led Central State with 83 rushing yards on 15 carries, while Griffin caught five passes for 79 yards and a touchdown. Burt added two receptions for 66 yards and a score, while Smith contributed 50 receiving yards and a touchdown.
Defensively, Hudson delivered a dominant performance with 13 tackles, four tackles for loss, three sacks, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery. Bradley added seven tackles, a half-sack and a forced fumble, while Powers recorded two tackles for loss and a sack. Central State finished with six sacks and 10 tackles for loss, repeatedly disrupting Miles' offensive possessions.
The Marauders converted all six red-zone opportunities into touchdowns and averaged 7.7 yards per offensive play. Their ability to capitalize on turnovers and finish scoring opportunities proved decisive, setting the stage for Saturday's meeting with Edward Waters.
LAST TIME THEY MET
Central State 21, Edward Waters 17
November 1, 2025 — Nathaniel Glover Community Field & Stadium, Jacksonville, Florida
Central State earned a 21-17 road victory over Edward Waters in the programs' most recent meeting, spoiling the Tigers' Homecoming and Senior Day celebration. The Marauders relied on a dominant defensive performance, forcing five interceptions and limiting Edward Waters to 223 total yards to secure the four-point victory.
The contest remained competitive throughout the afternoon, with both teams scoring seven points in the opening quarter. Central State gained a 14-10 halftime advantage before the teams exchanged touchdowns during the third quarter, giving the Marauders a 21-17 lead entering the final period. Neither offense scored in the fourth quarter, as Central State's defense protected the narrow advantage and prevented Edward Waters from completing a comeback.
Central State's defensive unit was the difference, limiting Edward Waters to just 74 passing yards and intercepting five passes. Dylan Purry recorded three interceptions, while Domonique Davis II led the Marauders with 13 tackles and three tackles for loss. Central State also rushed for 199 yards, helping control possession and sustain its offensive approach.
The victory snapped Edward Waters' two-game winning streak in the series and evened the all-time matchup at two victories apiece. Saturday's meeting therefore presents an opportunity for either program to move ahead in the series while also securing an important victory in the 2026 SIAC championship race.
SERIES HISTORY
Edward Waters and Central State enter Saturday's matchup with their series tied 2-2 across four previous meetings dating to 2019. The programs have split their previous two contests in Wilberforce, while each has also secured a road victory in Jacksonville.
Central State claimed the inaugural meeting in 2019 with a 28-21 victory before Edward Waters responded with consecutive wins in 2021 and 2022. The Tigers recorded a 56-19 victory in Jacksonville in 2021 and followed with a 45-13 win in Wilberforce the following season. Central State reclaimed momentum with its 21-17 victory in 2025.
The four previous meetings have featured contrasting styles, including two decisive Edward Waters victories and two competitive Central State wins. Saturday's matchup represents the fifth meeting between the programs and an opportunity to break the series tie.
NCAA DIVISION II NPI WATCH
Saturday's matchup carries significant postseason implications as Edward Waters and Central State enter Week 9 ranked among the top five programs in NCAA Division II Super Region Two. The October 25 NCAA Power Index rankings place Edward Waters at No. 2 with a 60.860 NPI, while Central State climbed three positions to No. 5 with a 58.731 NPI.
Edward Waters dropped one position from its No. 1 ranking in the inaugural October 18 release despite improving its NPI from 59.566 to 60.860. The Tigers hold a 5-1 Division II record for NPI purposes and are ranked No. 13 nationally, reinforcing their position among the leading postseason contenders in the region.
Central State made one of the most significant gains in the latest rankings, advancing from No. 8 to No. 5 after its victory over Miles. The Marauders carry a 5-1 Division II record and a 58.731 NPI, placing them No. 20 nationally. Their rise reflects the importance of recent conference victories and places Central State firmly within the regional postseason conversation.
The two programs are separated by just 2.129 NPI points, making Saturday's contest particularly important for both teams. Edward Waters has an opportunity to strengthen its postseason résumé with a road victory over a nationally ranked regional opponent, while Central State can improve its standing by defeating the region's No. 2 team.
The SIAC continues to occupy four of the top five positions in Super Region Two. Kentucky State leads the region with a 61.422 NPI, followed by Edward Waters at No. 2, Benedict at No. 3 with a 60.251 rating and Central State at No. 5. Tuskegee also appears among the region's top 10, ranking No. 10 with a 53.394 NPI.
Introduced for Division II football in 2026, the NCAA Power Index replaces the traditional regional ranking process and evaluates programs based on game results and strength of schedule. Updated rankings will be released each Sunday through the remainder of the regular season, leading into the NCAA Division II Football Selection Show on November 15.
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