August 26, 2025

Waxahachie, TX – The Nelson University Lions are set to burst into the 2025 football season with a renewed sense of energy and purpose. The campaign kicks off Thursday, August 28 at 7:30 PM on the road against MidAmerica Nazarene University in Olathe, Kansas.

2024 Season Recap & Preseason Outlook
Coming off a 2024 season that finished at 4–6 overall (3–6 SAC), the Lions still showed flashes of top-level potential. Joseph Chavez led the way defensively, earning All-American honors after pacing the Sooner Athletic Conference (SAC) in total tackles. Several teammates also gained recognition on the SAC All-Conference teams, underscoring the growing talent within the program.

In the 2025 SAC Football Preseason Poll, Nelson was tabbed 8th by league coaches. Though the Lions enter 2025 as underdogs, a gritty offseason of growth, toughness, and key recruits has them poised to send shockwaves through the SAC.

2025 SAC Preseason Poll

1. Texas Wesleyan (64, 8)

2. OUAZ (55, 1)

3. Langston (48)

4. Texas College (35)

5. Louisiana Christian (33)

6. Panhandle State (29)

7. Wayland Baptist (28)

8. Nelson (24)

9. Arkansas Baptist (8)
   
   

Key Returners

• CB Amin White – 3 INTs in 2024; dynamic punt returner who gives the Lions an X-factor on special teams, is an All-SAC returner.

• S Jordan Walker – A steady presence in the secondary with 2 INTs and 35 tackles last season.

• LB Johnathan Bloom – Collected 39 tackles and 2 sacks, bringing leadership to the linebacker corps.

• RB Marvin Sanders – A scoring machine with 500+ rushing yards and 10 TDs in 2024.

• WR Zach Fuller – Posted 550 yards in 2024; offseason training has transformed him into a stronger, faster threat.

• OL AJ Shields – Veteran lineman who anchors the trenches and sets the tone for the offense.

• LB Dalton L'Esperance – Sophomore who impressed in the spring and is expected to be a breakout performer.

Notable Additions

• DB Coach Isaac Gowdy – A former Nelson standout (All-Conference & All-American) returns to coach the secondary.

• QB Judah Holtzclaw – 6'6", 225-pound transfer with elite size and upside at quarterback.

• RB Quinton Jones – Transfer from Houston, TX, brings speed and versatility.

• RB Laddarius Evans – Freshman out of Waco University, an all-conference prep talent.

• OL Jose Reyna – Freshman from Pasadena, TX, known for his wide frame and strong hands.

• S Noah Coughran – Transfer from Navarro College; gritty and adaptable addition to the defense.
   

Nelson University Athletic Director Dr. Jesse Godding praised the program's development, stating:

"Coach Hudgins has done an excellent job in staff development and recruitment this past year. There is great anticipation on the campus of what will be accomplished on the field and off the field in this football team."

Head Coach Jared Hudgins emphasized toughness and consistency:

"We are excited about the quality of the young men in our program. They will play fast and physically. Our goal is to play with an intensity that is second only to the consistency with which we will do it."

Looking Ahead
The Lions look to rise in the SAC by playing disciplined, physical football. With proven veterans, fresh talent, and renewed energy, Nelson is ready to turn the page and make 2025 a statement year.

Fans can purchase tickets for all home games through Nelson's digital ticketing partner: Buy Tickets Here

Nelson University (formerly SAGU) is a private Christian university, established in 1927 by P.C. Nelson. The University is located 30 minutes south of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex in Waxahachie, Texas, and offers more than 70 associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees on campus or online. For more information, visit www.nelson.edu or by calling 1-888-YES-NELSON.