Full Breakdown
2025 College Football Season Kickoff Highlights
9/9/2025, 4:41:33 PM
Standout Performers of Week One
The opening week of the 2025 Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) football season featured notable performances from several student-athletes across nine participating schools. Kelvin Durham, quarterback for Johnson C. Smith University, was named Quarterback of the Week after passing for 207 yards and rushing for three touchdowns in a 28-16 victory over #14 Valdosta State. Traquan Johnson of Elizabeth City State University earned Offensive Back of the Week honors, accumulating 121 yards from scrimmage in a game against Hampton. His performance included 80 rushing yards on 17 attempts and three receptions for 41 yards.
Challenger Valentine from Bowie State University was recognized as Wide Receiver of the Week, contributing significantly to his team's 23-7 win over Shippensburg with six receptions for 81 yards and a touchdown. Austin Pittman of Winston-Salem State University was named Offensive Lineman of the Week for his role in a game-winning touchdown that secured a 28-25 victory.
On the defensive side, Matthew Leach from Fayetteville State University was awarded Linebacker of the Week, recording a game-high 11 tackles against UNC Pembroke. Samuel Graham of Bowie State was recognized as Defensive Back of the Week, achieving nine tackles and a fumble return for a touchdown, solidifying his team's defensive performance.
Georgia State Football Prepares for Upcoming Match
In Atlanta, Georgia State University is gearing up for its "Sell Out Saturday" event on September 13, where they will host Murray State. This matchup marks the second meeting between the two programs, with Georgia State seeking its first win against the Racers after a previous loss in 2014. The Panthers have welcomed a record number of newcomers, including 29 in their early signing class, as they aim to improve upon their 3-9 record from the previous season.
Rising Star: Isaac Brown of Louisville
Louisville's running back, Isaac Brown, is entering the 2025 season with heightened expectations following a remarkable freshman year that garnered multiple accolades. Brown has been named to six preseason All-American teams and the 2025 Preseason All-Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Team. He is also on the watchlists for several prestigious awards, including the Paul Hornung Award and the Doak Walker Award, reflecting his status as one of the top running backs in college football.
Conclusion
As the 2025 college football season unfolds, standout performances from players like Kelvin Durham, Traquan Johnson, and Isaac Brown highlight the talent present in the league. With teams like Georgia State looking to build on their previous seasons and new stars emerging, fans can anticipate an exciting year ahead in college football.
