Northwest Wayne News

The Wayne State University football team is preparing for an away game against Saginaw Valley State University following a home loss to Davenport. Saginaw Valley State, under head coach Ryan Brady, has achieved a 4-3 record this season and remains undefeated in league play. Last week, SVSU secured a notable win over No. 7-ranked Grand Valley State.

Quarterback Mason McKenzie leads the Cardinals with 1,295 passing yards and 10 touchdowns while also contributing significantly on the ground. Terrence Brown, Jr. is the top receiver for SVSU, and Michael Jamerson III leads the team in rushing touchdowns.

Wayne State’s defense has seen strong performances from linebackers Martell Williams, Logan McGraw, and Max Edwards, who have combined for 170 tackles this season. Williams currently leads the GLIAC in tackles.

On special teams, Wayne State ranks seventh nationally in kickoff-return defense by limiting opponents to just over 14 yards per return. The team has forced seven fumbles this season and returned two interceptions for touchdowns.

Redshirt freshman Drew Hickmott has been productive as a receiver for Wayne State with three touchdown catches this year. Justyz Tuggle has contributed several explosive plays as well.

This season marks significant roster changes for Wayne State; out of 126 players, only 53 are returners and there are 73 newcomers including freshmen and transfers. The coaching staff also features several new hires.

The Warriors face one of the toughest schedules in NCAA Division II football this year, having played opponents with a combined winning percentage of .718 so far in the season. They will also compete against five teams that appeared in the AFCA D2 Coaches Preseason Poll: Ferris State, Grand Valley State, Saginaw Valley State, Findlay, and Davenport.

The all-time series between Wayne State and Saginaw Valley heavily favors SVSU at 35-10-1; Wayne State last defeated them in 2019.

Head coach Tyrone Wheatley continues his role leading the program. The university recently launched the Warrior Sports Network to broadcast football games with veteran broadcaster Sean Baligian providing play-by-play coverage.

"Join head football coach Tyrone Wheatley and Brady Beedon each Wednesday prior to a home football Saturday for the Weekly with Wheatley podcast," according to the university's announcement. "Beedon is in his fifth season as WSU football analyst and also serves as the host for the Locker Room Report and Senior Spotlight interviews each week for the football broadcast."

There are three sets of brothers currently on Wayne State’s roster along with other family ties involving former college or professional athletes.