BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Valdosta State and West Florida split the Week 0 edition of weekly awards for the 2025 football season, as Devin Walter (special teams), Matt Rolader (freshman), Marcus Stokes (offensive) and Walker Robinson (defensive) were each recognized.
OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK?
Marcus Stokes, R-So., QB, West Florida?
Stokes led West Florida to a 48-21 win over No. 14 Lenoir-Rhyne as he accounted for six touchdowns in the season opener. The redshirt-sophomore threw for a career-high 353 yards and four TDs, while completing 20-of-29 passes. He also had two rushing touchdowns while carrying the ball six times for 15 yards.
Others nominated: Cole Kirk, Delta State; Armani Hayes, Valdosta State; Brayden Jenkins, West Alabama
DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK?
Walker Robinson, Sr., LB, West Florida
Robinson led the Argonauts with nine tackles, including seven solo stops, in the season opener over No. 14 Lenoir-Rhyne. The senior linebacker also notched two tackles for loss totaling four yards and two quarterback hurries in the effort.
Other nominated: William Carter, Delta State; Tyler Morehead, Valdosta State; Devonte Harris, West Alabama
SPECIAL TEAMS PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Devin Walter, Jr., P, Valdosta State
Walter had two punts totaling 81 yards in Valdosta State's 31-28 season opening win over Clark Atlanta. Both punts by the junior also pinned CAU inside its own five-yard line, with the second kick being downed at the two-yard line in the fourth quarter.
Other nominees: Elijah Guyton, West Alabama; Michael Shine, West Florida
FRESHMAN OF THE WEEK
Matt Rolader, Fr., K, Valdosta State
Rolander provided the game-winning field goal as Valdosta State defeated Clark Atlanta, 31-28 to begin the season. The rookie kicker went 1-for-2 on the day, converting a 24-yarder with 8:03 left in the fourth. Rolader also went 4-for-4 in PATs and had one kickoff for 64 yards.
Other nominees: none
2025 GSC Football Weekly Award Winners
Offensive Player of the Week
Sept. 1: Marcus Stokes, R-So., QB, West Florida
Defensive Player of the Week
Sept. 1: Walker Robinson, Sr., LB, West Florida
Special Teams Player of the Week
Sept. 1: Devin Walter, Jr., P, Valdosta State
Freshman of the Week
Sept. 1: Matt Rolader, Fr., K, Valdosta State