BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The Gulf South Conference announced its first weekly award winners of the 2024 football season, following Week 0 action. Valdosta State claimed a pair of honors in quarterback Sammy Edwards (offensive) and defensive back Larry Elder (defensive), while West Alabama kicker Elijah Guyton (special teams) were recognized.
OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Sammy Edwards, Sr., QB, Valdosta State
Edwards started the 2024 campaign where he left last season throwing for four touchdowns in a 42-10 win over region rival Albany State. The senior quarterback's weekly ledger also included 306 passing yards, completing 18-of-25 passes, while contributing on ground with three carries for five yards and touchdown on the day.
Other nominees: Jaylen Green (Delta State); Craig Pender (Erskine)
DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Larry Elder, Gr., DB, Valdosta State
Elder had a team-high nine tackles, including five solo stops, in his Valdosta State debut to help the Blazers down region foe Albany State, 42-10. The graduate defensive back was everywhere on the field as he also finished with 0.5 tackles for loss and a pass breakup.
Other nominees: Chris Bonner (Delta State); Issac Williams (West Alabama); Joshua Kamoto (Erskine)
SPECIAL TEAMS PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Elijah Guyton, So., K, West Alabama
Guyton accounted for 10 of West Alabama's 16 points as the Tigers began the season with a win over region rival Miles, 16-15. The sophomore was 3-for-3 on field goals, converting kicks from 27 yards, 42 yards, and a 20-yard walk-off game-winner. Guyton was also 1-for-1 in PAT attempts and tallied a kickoff for 61 yards.
Other nominees: Parker Burleson (Delta State); Franklin Alonso (Valdosta State)
2024 GSC Football Players of the Week
Offensive Player of the Week
9/2: Sammy Edwards, QB, Valdosta State
Defensive Player of the Week
9/2: Larry Elder, LB, Valdosta State
Special Teams Player of the Week
9/2: Elijah Guyton, K, West Alabama
Freshman of the Week
9/2: n/a
Nominees are submitted by their respective institutions and voted on by a committee comprised of representatives from GSC football member schools.