## Thomas Racking Up Preseason Honors

Oklahoma defensive end R Mason Thomas is having a strong start to the 2025 season, already landing on two prestigious watch lists.

### Back-to-Back Watch List Recognition

Thomas was initially named to the Bednarik Award watch list on Monday, putting him in the running for one of college football's top defensive player honors. Just one day later, he added another accolade to his resume:  the Lombardi Award watch list.

This prestigious award recognizes outstanding offensive and defensive linemen who exemplify the character and discipline championed by legendary coach Vince Lombardi. 


### Following in the Footsteps of Sooners Legends

Three former Sooners have already claimed the Lombardi Award: Lee Roy Selmon (1975), Tony Casillas (1985), and Tommie Harris (2003). Thomas now has the opportunity to join their ranks. 

### A Breakout Season Ahead

Thomas is coming off a breakout 2024 season where he recorded nine sacks and led the Sooners in pressures.  His performance earned him a spot on the 2025 All-SEC preseason second team back in July. He'll look to build on that success in his final year with Oklahoma.


Relentless pursuit.@thomss_r » Lombardi Award Watch List
🏆 https://t.co/xaBj0SLKAkpic.twitter.com/LjTWhohUou
— Oklahoma Football (@OU_Football) August 12, 2025  







## Thomas Racking Up Preseason Honors

Oklahoma defensive end R Mason Thomas is having a strong start to the 2025 season, already landing on two prestigious wat

Oklahoma Sooners defensive end named to Lombardi Award watch

Oklahoma Sooners defensive end named to Lombardi Award watch list

##  Louisville's Newest Weapon: Sananda Fru Brings European Experience to Cardinal Court

Pat Kelsey has assembled a talented roster for the 2025-26 season, and one of the most intriguing additions is Sananda Fru. The 6-foot-11 German forward joins the Cardinals after a successful stint in Europe's Basketball Bundesliga, and his arrival has Louisville fans buzzing with anticipation.

### A Leap of Faith Pays Off

Fru committed to Louisville in February without ever visiting campus or meeting Kelsey face-to-face. It might seem like an unusual move, but it reflects a growing trend in college basketball: recruiting seasoned European players who are already battle-tested against professionals.

"It's easier to chase your dream," Fru told The Field of 68 after signing with the Cardinals. "Every young kid wants to play in the USA at one point — wants to make the NBA. I feel like the U.S. gives you the best chance."

Fru isn't just looking for any opportunity; he aims to contribute immediately.  He believes Louisville's fast-paced, aggressive style perfectly suits his skillset. "The way they're playing I think really suits me," Fru said. "Super aggressive, like to run, like big men who are more on the flex side — run the court, can stretch the court, play aggressive defense. I just think it suits me a lot, and that's a big reason why I chose them."

### From Bundesliga Star to Cardinal 

Fru was already making waves in the BBL before coming to Louisville. He led his team, Löwen Braunschweig, to a playoff berth in 2024-25, earning the league’s Best German Young Player award.

"Sananda's development over the past five years has been tremendous," said managing director Nils Mittmann. "This applies, firstly, to his steady improvement on the field, becoming one of the most dominant players in the BBL. Secondly, and especially, his personal development off the field from a teenager to a young man is remarkable — he is ready to take responsibility for himself and his environment — and that testifies to his maturity."

Fru averaged 12.4 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks in the playoffs, showcasing his ability to perform at a high level under pressure.  He was also a force in the regular season, leading Löwen Braunschweig in rebounding (6.7 per game) and shot blocking (1.7 per game).

### What Does the Future Hold?

Kelsey believes Fru's experience playing against seasoned professionals will translate seamlessly to the collegiate game. “He's a pro,” Kelsey said. "He's a grizzled veteran."

With several question marks surrounding Louisville's frontcourt for 2025-26, Fru could emerge as a crucial player from day one.  His ability to score around the rim, operate in pick-and-rolls, and defend at a high level makes him a perfect fit for Kelsey’s system.

The potential for Fru to develop into an NBA prospect is also exciting. As he continues to refine his game under Kelsey's guidance and with strength coach Eli Foy, Louisville fans can expect big things from their newest addition. 


  


##  Louisville's Newest Weapon: Sananda Fru Brings European Experience to Cardinal Court

Pat Kelsey has assembled a talented roster for the 2025-26 season, and

Scouting Louisville basketball&#39;s 2025-26 roster: Sananda

Scouting Louisville basketball&#39;s 2025-26 roster: Sananda Fru

## Rattlers' Quarterback Race Heats Up, But Who Starts?

Florida A&M is getting ready for the 2025 season, and competition is already fierce. The Rattlers held their first scrimmage last Saturday, giving players a chance to shine under pressure. Head Coach James Colzie III sees talent on both sides of the ball, but two positions are particularly heated: quarterback and defensive end.

**Quarterback Battle Still "Wide Open"**

The race for starting quarterback is far from over. Five quarterbacks entered training camp: Traven Green, Tyler Jefferson, RJ Johnson III, Jett Peddy, and Bryson Martin. While all are vying for the position, Colzie singled out Johnson and Peddy for their impressive performance at the scrimmage. 

Johnson, a redshirt sophomore transfer from Toledo, and Peddy, a junior transfer from Long Beach City College, have both made moves up the depth chart. 


“RJ and Jett kind of moved themselves a little up," Colzie said. "But it’s still wide open.”

Whoever claims the starting role follows in the footsteps of Jeremy Moussa and Daniel Richardson, two former FAMU quarterbacks who were HBCU All-Americans and Southwestern Athletic Conference award winners. 


**Gardner Jr. Holding Down Edge Rusher Position**

On defense, the Rattlers are aiming to dominate at the line of scrimmage. Returning starter and Preseason All-SWAC Second Team selection James Gardner Jr. has solidified his position as a defensive end, edging out Antonio Camon on the depth chart. 


“Defensively, we play so many people. But James Gardner has done a really good job at moving himself as a defensive end,” Colzie said.

Gardner finished last season with 36 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, and 2.5 sacks. Camon, a redshirt sophomore,  had limited playing time last year but impressed during training camp.


"When that happens, you have a guy like Antonio Camon, who’s also been having a great summer, has to move down," Colzie explained. "So, it's more of what James Gardner was doing and not what Antonio Camon wasn't doing.”



**2025 Schedule 

**Week 1:** Saturday, Aug. 30 ― vs. Howard (Orange Blossom Classic at Miami Gardens' Hard Rock Stadium), 4 p.m., ESPNU
**Week 2:** Saturday, Sept. 6 ― at Florida Atlantic, 6 p.m., ESPN Plus
**Week 3:** Saturday, Sept. 13 ― vs. Albany State, 7 p.m., SWAC TV
**Week 4:** BYE/OPEN WEEK
**Week 5:** Saturday, Sept. 27 ― vs. Alabama State (SWAC), 3 p.m., HBCU GO
**Week 6:** Saturday, Oct. 4 ― vs. Mississippi Valley State (SWAC/at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium), 4 p.m., SWAC TV
**Week 7:** Saturday, Oct. 11 ― vs. North Carolina Central, 3 p.m., HBCU GO
**Week 8:** Saturday, Oct. 18 ― vs. Alcorn State (SWAC/Homecoming), 4 p.m., ESPN Plus
**Week 9:** Saturday, Oct. 25 ― at Southern (SWAC), 5 p.m., SWAC TV
**Week 10:** Saturday, Nov. 1 ― vs. Jackson State (SWAC), 7 p.m., ESPN Network
**Week 11:** Saturday, Nov. 8 ― at Arkansas-Pine Bluff (SWAC), 3 p.m., HBCU GO
**Week 12:** Saturday, Nov. 15 ― at Alabama A&M (SWAC), 3 p.m., SWAC TV
**Week 13:** Saturday, Nov. 22 ― vs. Bethune-Cookman (SWAC/Florida Classic at Orlando's Camping World Stadium), TIME TBA, ESPN Plus
Saturday, Nov. 29 ― NCAA FCS Playoffs Begin (If Necessary)
Saturday, Dec. 6 ― SWAC Championship Game (If Necessary)
Saturday, Dec. 13 ― Celebration Bowl at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium (If Necessary)
Monday, Jan. 5, 2026 ― NCAA FCS National Championship Game at Nashville's FirstBank Stadium (If Necessary)

All times listed are in Eastern Standard Time.





## Rattlers' Quarterback Race Heats Up, But Who Starts?

Florida A&M is getting ready for the 2025 season, and competition is already fierce. The Rattlers held 

FAMU football&#39;s QBs, defensive end James Gardner Jr. hig

FAMU football&#39;s QBs, defensive end James Gardner Jr. highlighted in depth chart movement

## Buffs Look for Bounce Back in 2025

WTAMU kicks off its 2025 season under head coach Josh Lynn, seeking to turn around a combined 8-13 record from his first two seasons. The Buffaloes open against No. 10 Western Colorado, who defeated them last year, on August 28th in Gunnison, Colorado. A home opener against Colorado School of Mines awaits on September 4th. But before the season begins, here are three key storylines for the Buffs.

###  The QB Carousel Continues

After a sluggish start to the 2024 season with Sean Johnson at quarterback, WTAMU found success when Kanon Gibson took over. Gibson led the team to a 4-2 record, showcasing his sophomore potential. However, he transferred to UT Permian Basin, leaving the starting position open. Johnson could return to the role, but Lynn and staff brought in several quarterbacks to compete:

Freshman Boston Bell (Canyon), Ryan Gafford (Stephenville), Wyatt Holmstrom (Seminole), and Anthony King (Copperas Cove) join redshirt freshmen Colt Mercer and Knox Porter. Transfers Nathan Greek (Tyler JC), RJ Martinez (Texas State), and Jonah McCown (Limestone) also add to the mix. 

###  Transfer DBs: Ready for Impact?

Last year, Cam Manahan transferred from Central Oklahoma and became a star in WTAMU's defensive backfield. This year, Lynn and new defensive coordinator Justin Richter have another opportunity to find an impact transfer player.

Jamel Acosta-Lewis (Caprock) returns home after playing at Colorado Mesa, while Anthony White (Abernathy) joins the team after starting at Texas Tech.  They’ll compete with a group of transfers: Antonio Williams (American River College), Marico Smith (Nebraska-Kearney), Deon Rebers (Long Beach Community College), Norman Manderson (Moorpark College), Miles Hill (Louisiana Monroe), and Phineas Allen (Northwest Missouri State).

###  Panhandle Freshmen to Watch?

The 2025 recruiting class includes several Texas Panhandle players hoping to make an immediate impact.  Tripp Wright, Braeden Massengale, and Breken Melton from Canyon, Randall, and Amarillo High respectively are all tight ends with different skillsets. Nash Dunnam (Amarillo High) also brings a unique 6-foot-10 frame to the position.

Massengale, at 6-foot-5 and 275 pounds, is a standout defensive lineman who impressed coach Lynn on signing day. His potential for early playing time is high.




## Buffs Look for Bounce Back in 2025

WTAMU kicks off its 2025 season under head coach Josh Lynn, seeking to turn around a combined 8-13 record from his first 

West Texas A&M football: 3 storylines for the Buffs heading 

West Texas A&M football: 3 storylines for the Buffs heading into 2025 campaign

## Gator Hope Hinges on QB Health 

The 2025 college football season is just around the corner, but for many teams, including preseason ranked Florida, success hinges on avoiding disaster. Even powerhouse programs can crumble under pressure, and injuries can derail even the most promising seasons.  

**A Question of Durability**

For the 15th-ranked Gators, Athletic senior writer Ralph D. Russo points to quarterback DJ Lagway's health as a critical factor. "Nothing is more important to the Gators’ success than quarterback DJ Lagway’s health," Russo writes. “The difference between living up to this ranking and falling flat against a difficult schedule comes down to whether coach Billy Napier and his staff are up to the task of getting the most out of the talented roster they built.” 

Unfortunately, concerns about Lagway's durability are already surfacing during preseason camp. He missed the first two days with a calf injury after battling core, hamstring, and shoulder issues last season. While he's back throwing after being cleared from his boot, the question remains: can Lagway stay healthy? 

**A Dual Threat With High Stakes**

Gators Wire's David Rosenberg echoes Russo's sentiment. "The injury bug is the only major red flag for Lagway coming into the 2025 campaign," he writes. "If he stays healthy, Lagway will be among the most dangerous dual threats in the SEC.”

That “if” carries significant weight. Without their potential Heisman Trophy candidate at the helm, the Gators' chances of success diminish considerably.  


Follow us on X (@GatorsWire), Bluesky, and Facebook for ongoing coverage of Florida Gators news, notes and opinions. 


## Gator Hope Hinges on QB Health 

The 2025 college football season is just around the corner, but for many teams, including preseason ranked Florida, success 

What could go wrong? The Athletic looks at Florida football&

What could go wrong? The Athletic looks at Florida football&#39;s worst-case scenario

## Crimson Tide Recruiting Stumbles as Top Prospect Chooses Notre Dame

Alabama's quest for a dominant 2026 recruiting class hit a snag over the weekend. Despite boasting an impressive roster of commitments including five-star talents Jireh Edwards, Xavier Griffin, Cederian Morgan, and Jorden Edmonds, the Crimson Tide lost out on four-star defensive lineman Elijah Golden.

Golden, hailing from Sarasota, Florida, and attending Cardinal Mooney High School, opted for Notre Dame over Alabama, Oklahoma, and Virginia Tech. The 6-foot-3.5, 278-pound prospect ranks as the No. 19 overall recruit and top defensive lineman in Rivals' Industry Rankings for the 2026 class.

**Alabama's Defensive Line Efforts Continue**

With Golden's commitment to Notre Dame, Alabama's defensive line commitments currently stand at three-star prospect JJ Finch, and four-stars Kamhariyan Johnson and Nolan Wilson.


**DeBoer Praises Quarterback Performance in Fall Camp** 

Meanwhile, Head Coach Kalen DeBoer expressed satisfaction with the quarterbacks during Alabama's first scrimmage of fall camp.  He lauded their consistency, highlighting only three interceptions thrown throughout training camp and a completion percentage above 65% for each quarterback.  Ty Simpson ultimately secured the starting position, edging out former five-star prospect Keelon Russell and transfer Austin Mack from the Washington Huskies.

Simpson will have the benefit of connecting with one of college football's top receivers in sophomore Ryan Williams. SEC Network analyst Chris Doering has even declared Williams the best wide receiver in the SEC.  Williams shone as a true freshman last season, leading Alabama with 865 receiving yards and eight touchdowns.


**Crimson Tide Set to Face Florida State in Season Opener**

Alabama kicks off their 2023-24 season on August 30th at 3:30 p.m. ET against the Florida State Seminoles, airing live on ABC.  


## Crimson Tide Recruiting Stumbles as Top Prospect Chooses Notre Dame

Alabama's quest for a dominant 2026 recruiting class hit a snag over the weekend. Despit

Alabama Dealt Devastating Blow on Recruiting Trail on Sunday

##  Joplin Takes His Talents to France

Marquette basketball alum David Joplin is taking his game overseas.  The 6-foot-8 forward signed with Basket Club Maritime Gravelines-Dunkerque, a team competing in the Pro A league in France, on August 12th. This marks Joplin's first professional contract after standout performances at Brookfield Central High School and four seasons with Marquette University.

**From Summer League to European Courts**


Joplin had a brief stint with the Milwaukee Bucks during the NBA summer league, appearing in just one game.  Now, he'll be making his mark on the international stage. 

**Leaving Behind a Legacy at Marquette**


Joplin leaves Marquette as the program's all-time leader in games played with an impressive 139 appearances. He tallied 1,306 points over his four years, ranking seventh in program history with 229 three-pointers. Joplin was also recognized as the Big East's Sixth Man of the Year during the 2022-23 season.






##  Joplin Takes His Talents to France

Marquette basketball alum David Joplin is taking his game overseas.  The 6-foot-8 forward signed with Basket Club Mariti

Marquette&#39;s David Joplin signs first professional deal w

Marquette&#39;s David Joplin signs first professional deal with team in France

## Tigers Left Out of Preseason Poll: Blessing in Disguise?

The Kilcoyne Opinion isn't happy about Missouri being left out of this year's preseason top 25 college football rankings. But could the snub actually work in the Tigers' favor?


**A Snub That Could Fuel a Fire**

"It’s just disrespectful," says The Kilcoyne Opinion. "They’ve got the talent, they’ve got the potential. This team deserves to be ranked." 



**Unexpected Opportunity?**

Perhaps being overlooked will serve as motivation for the Tigers this season.  The lack of pressure and expectations could allow them to fly under the radar and surprise everyone come playoff time.  


## Tigers Left Out of Preseason Poll: Blessing in Disguise?

The Kilcoyne Opinion isn't happy about Missouri being left out of this year's preseason top 25 coll

TKO: Mizzou football not ranked in pre season top 25 ranking

TKO: Mizzou football not ranked in pre season top 25 rankings

## Bluebloods Reign Supreme: Notre Dame Joins Elite College Football Club

On3 Sports has unveiled its list of college football "blueblood" programs, and the familiar names are front and center. 

To earn a spot on the list, a team needed to boast a top-15 program win percentage over at least 750 games and hold at least one national title in two of three distinct eras: AP or coaches poll during the poll era, winner of the final game in the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) or College Football Playoff (CFP) era.

Notre Dame joins an exclusive group that includes Alabama, Florida State, Georgia, LSU, Miami (FL), Michigan, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas and USC. 

Just missing out on the cut were Auburn, Clemson, Florida, Nebraska and Penn State.  




## Bluebloods Reign Supreme: Notre Dame Joins Elite College Football Club

On3 Sports has unveiled its list of college football "blueblood" programs, and the fa

Notre Dame listed as a blue-blood football program

## Crimson Tide Freshman Ready to Break Out?

Aeryn Hampton arrived at Alabama last year with high expectations after being ranked as a top athlete out of high school.  But the redshirt freshman saw limited action in just three games, catching one pass for six yards against Mercer. Despite that, Hampton's potential is undeniable and could blossom into a breakout 2025 season.

**The Numbers So Far**
* **Position:** Wide Receiver
* **Jersey Number:** No. 6
* **Height:** 5’10”
* **Weight:** 195 lbs
* **Class:** Redshirt Freshman
* **Hometown:** Daingerfield, Texas
* **High School:** Daingerfield

Hampton's performance last season was a quiet introduction to college football.  He’ll be looking to build on that experience and make his mark in the competitive Alabama receiving corps.

**A Highly-Touted Recruit** 

Ranked as the nation's No. 227 overall player by the 247Sports Composite rankings, Hampton was a four-star prospect who committed to Alabama in December 2023. He was lauded as the No. 9 overall athlete and the No. 37 player in Texas.

**Looking Ahead: A Potential Breakout?**


While Alabama boasts a stacked wide receiver room, don't count Hampton out just yet.  He could still see significant playing time, possibly in a rotational role or on special teams. The talent is there, and with continued development, he has the potential to become a key contributor for the Crimson Tide. 

**2025 Prediction:**
10 receptions, 100 yards





## Crimson Tide Freshman Ready to Break Out?

Aeryn Hampton arrived at Alabama last year with high expectations after being ranked as a top athlete out of high 

Alabama football 2025 season preview, predictions: Aeryn Ham

Alabama football 2025 season preview, predictions: Aeryn Hampton

## Spartan Tight End Back in the Running for National Honor

Michigan State football tight end Jack Velling has been named to the Mackey Award watchlist for the second consecutive year. The prestigious award is presented annually to the top tight end in college football, and Velling enters his senior season with significant buzz surrounding his potential. 

Last year, Velling joined the Spartans after transferring from Oregon State, following his coach Jonathan Smith to East Lansing. While he recorded a career-high 36 receptions, his 411 receiving yards marked a dip from his sophomore season with the Beavers. Some fans expressed disappointment in his production – only one touchdown pass compared to eight the previous year with Oregon State. However, it's worth noting that MSU's offensive struggles at times, including inconsistent pass protection, may have impacted Velling's overall output. 


Follow @The SpartansWire on X and like our page on Facebook for ongoing coverage of Michigan State news, notes, and opinion. You can also follow Andrew Brewster on Twitter @IAmBrewster.  


## Spartan Tight End Back in the Running for National Honor

Michigan State football tight end Jack Velling has been named to the Mackey Award watchlist for the

Michigan State football tight end Jack Velling named to Mack

Michigan State football tight end Jack Velling named to Mackey Award watchlist

## Archmania Begins: Finebaum Predicts Texas Upset Over Ohio State

College football's Week 1 slate is stacked with heavyweight matchups, but all eyes will be on Columbus when the No. 1 Texas Longhorns take on the defending national champion Ohio State Buckeyes on August 30th. The game, airing at noon ET on Fox, has already drawn ESPN's "College GameDay" for Lee Corso's farewell episode, cementing its status as a season opener for the ages.

But amidst the hype surrounding Arch Manning's arrival in Austin, pundits are divided. While Ohio State is favored by most sportsbooks, ESPN analyst Paul Finebaum is boldly predicting a Texas victory, setting the stage for "Archmania."

"He is going to win that first game (against Ohio State) on the biggest stage in college football this year," Finebaum declared during an appearance on ESPN's "Get Up."

Finebaum isn't alone in his confidence. He echoed this sentiment in July, stating:  “The experience of being an understudy to Ewers and understanding Sark’s system is what’s going to get them over the top and probably — well, not probably — definitely beat Ohio State in the opener.”

Ohio State, under Ryan Day's leadership, triumphed over Texas last season in the College Football Playoff Semifinals, crushing Quinn Ewers-led Longhorns 28-14. This year, despite Texas holding the edge in the preseason Coaches poll, most sportsbooks list Texas as a 2.5-point road underdog.

Finebaum believes this will be different. He predicts that Manning's experience and Steve Sarkisian's coaching will propel Texas to victory, sparking a nationwide frenzy.  “It’s going to go Archmania; it’s going to transcend the sport of college football,” Finebaum asserted.


This echoes the excitement surrounding Colorado last year under Deion Sanders. The Buffs' stunning upset over TCU in their season opener ignited national attention and captured the hearts of fans nationwide. Manning has a similar opportunity to become a cultural phenomenon, offering an alternative narrative in a world often focused on established powers.

Manning is already generating buzz, earning spots on multiple preseason award watchlists, including the Walter Camp National Player of the Year, Maxwell Award, Davey O'Brien Award, and Sporting News' Preseason All-America Team. He even boasts +700 odds to win the Heisman Trophy (FanDuel).

The road ahead won't be easy for Texas. Beyond Ohio State, they face a gauntlet of tough opponents, including Florida, Georgia, Oklahoma, and potentially an SEC Championship appearance. But if Finebaum is right, this season will be about Arch Manning. It's about the rise of Texas. It's about "Archmania."


 


## Archmania Begins: Finebaum Predicts Texas Upset Over Ohio State

College football's Week 1 slate is stacked with heavyweight matchups, but all eyes will be o

#College

Oklahoma Sooners defensive end named to Lombardi Award watch list

Scouting Louisville basketball's 2025-26 roster: Sananda Fru

FAMU football's QBs, defensive end James Gardner Jr. highlighted in depth chart movement

West Texas A&M football: 3 storylines for the Buffs heading into 2025 campaign

What could go wrong? The Athletic looks at Florida football's worst-case scenario

Alabama Dealt Devastating Blow on Recruiting Trail on Sunday

Marquette's David Joplin signs first professional deal with team in France

TKO: Mizzou football not ranked in pre season top 25 rankings

Notre Dame listed as a blue-blood football program

Alabama football 2025 season preview, predictions: Aeryn Hampton

Michigan State football tight end Jack Velling named to Mackey Award watchlist

Paul Finebaum Predicts College Football Upset to Open the Season