Written by Eric Jackson  After previously playing football for two junior colleges, the misunderstood standout thinks it’s safe to call Valdosta his final stop. The Blazers’ newly acquired wide receiver considers himself blessed to be granted another opportunity. “I’m trying to make this a home run,” Downs said. “That’s what I’m coming in for, to make this the best out ...

Written by Chris Kessler   VSU’s quest for a consecutive National Championship starts Saturday at Fort Valley State in the “Macon Heritage Classic.” Despite a decisive 62-14 victory over the Wildcats a year ago, VSU is not taking its season opener lightly. “We’re in a situation that we can’t take anyone lightly, and we’re going to get everyone’s best and ...

by Chris Kessler   It’s always difficult to come into the season with five new starting offensive linemen. Last season’s offensive line broke numerous school records, had four players named first team Gulf South Conference, three players earning All-American status, and two players currently playing in the NFL. Not to mention, leading Valdosta State to a National Championship. It’s safe ...

Written by: Eric Jackson   1. How will the offensive line shake up?     Presumably the strongest offensive line in Blazer history is now gone and the vacancy draws doubt in this season’s success. VSU goes into the season with five unproven starters upfront. Preseason camp is solidifying who these five will be. Returning linemen Colin Glasco, Jesse Yancy, ...

Valdosta State former offensive guard Edmund Kugbila was selected by the Carolina Panthers in the fourth round (108th overall pick) of the 2013 NFL Draft on Saturday. Kugbila becomes the first Blazer drafted since 1997 and the highest drafted player in VSU history. “It feels amazing,” Kugbila said. “I’m just so blessed right now, God just working magic. I can’t ...

Written by Eric Jackson   Former Louisiana State University offensive assistant Adam Froman has been hired as the new quarterbacks coach for the Valdosta State football team. The 25-year old replaces Northwestern State (La.) offensive coordinator Robby Brown, who left the Blazers a couple weeks following the national championship victory. Head Coach David Dean announced the news on Tuesday. “Adam ...

Written by Dowling Payne   Valdosta State this past season was an especially exceptional one as they brought the National Championship title back home to Titletown. Not only will the team be coming back strong to keep the title, but also will have the addition of two previous players who were out last season. Both stand out players, Griffin Roelle ...

Written by Eric Jackson   A business partnership between the VSU athletic department and Jostens Inc. has left many members of the recently crowned national champion football team feeling bitter. VSU Athletics and Jostens Inc. are offering the public the opportunity to purchase several different memorabilia jewelry items, including an authentic Division II national championship ring. The ring available to ...

Written by James Washington   Never underestimate the heart of a champion. Football is a key component of Georgia heritage, and much of that credit is due to Valdosta. In their storied history, Valdosta High School’s football program has won 41 regional, 23 state, and six national championships. No successful run comes without a few obstacles to overcome. From 1968 ...

Written by Eric Jackson   VSU co-defensive coordinator and defensive line coach, Earl Chambers, could be leaving Valdosta for Georgia Southern University after interviewing for the same position Tuesday afternoon in Statesboro.   According to footballscoop.com Twitter feed, “Georgia Southern, sources close tell us [them] Earl Chambers is strong candidate; but decision is not final.”   GSU is looking to ...