SAVANNAH, Ga. – The Savannah State Tigers are gearing up for their homecoming game on October 25 at Wright Stadium with a fresh face leading their offense. Head coach Aaron Kelton has announced that true freshman RaShawn Truell will be stepping into the role of starting quarterback. This bold decision comes as Kelton aims to invigorate the team’s offensive strategy by entrusting the New Hampstead High School alumnus with the pivotal position.

The decision follows a challenging outing in the Good Trouble Heritage Football Classic, where Savannah State suffered a narrow 7-0 defeat to Fort Valley State in Augusta, Georgia. Notably, the Tigers’ defense held strong, conceding no points, with the game’s sole touchdown resulting from a punt return. Despite rotating through three quarterbacks during the game, including Truell, the team struggled to gain traction, with each quarterback managing to pass for fewer than 30 yards.

Truell, who has already made appearances this season, including a notable game against South Carolina State on October 4, now has the chance to make a significant impact. Coach Kelton expressed confidence in Truell’s potential, highlighting his consistent improvement and ability to energize the team’s passing game. “He’s just getting better each week,” Kelton noted. “You know, we were trying to find the spark that we need in the offense and in the pass game. We’re going to give him an opportunity. He’s a gamer. He’s a good player. It’s time for him to play. No question.”

As the Tigers prepare for their upcoming homecoming clash, all eyes will be on Truell to see if he can deliver the offensive boost Savannah State needs. Coach Kelton’s decision to “turn the keys over” to the freshman underscores his belief in Truell’s talent and potential to lead the team to success.

Truell has also seen action against South Carolina State on Oct. 4.

“He’s just getting better each week,” Kelton said. “You know, we were trying to find the spark that we need in the offense and in the pass game. We’re going to give him an opportunity. He’s a gamer. He’s a good player. It’s time for him to play. No question.”

Savannah State can pull its overall record to 4-4 and conference record to 3-3 with a win against Morehouse on Saturday.