BIRMINGHAM, Ala. | NSBNsports.com | August 31, 2026 — West Alabama trio Luther Richesson (offensive), Anthony Oatis (defensive) and Dakarai Shanks (freshman) as well as Valdosta State’s Lucas Edenfield (special teams) were recognized as the first set of 2026 Gulf South Conference Football Weekly Awards presented by Athletic Solutions were announced following Week 0 action.
OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Luther Richesson, QB, Gr., West Alabama
- Led the Tigers to a 27-17 win over Tuskegee in the season opener.
- Totaled 308 yards of offense.
- Completed 16-of-25 passes for 215 yards with three touchdowns and one interception.
- Rushed for 93 yards on seven carries.
- Named MVP of the Red Tails Classic.
Other nominees: Shawn Paschall, Valdosta State
DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Anthony Oatis, DE, Jr., West Alabama
- Recorded 5.0 tackles, 1.0 sacks, 1.0 tackle for loss and 1 forced fumble.
- Led the Tiger defense which allowed only 17 points.
- Helped West Alabama to a 27-17 win over Tuskegee at the Red Tails Classic.
Other nominees: none
SPECIAL TEAMS PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Lucas Edenfield, P, So., Valdosta State
- Recorded five punts totaling 224 yards, averaging 44.8 yards per kick.
- Had two punts for 50+ yards including a game-long of 51 yards.
- Had one kick inside 20 yards.
- Helped the Blazers to a 38-10 win over Emory & Henry in the season opener.
Other nominees: Humberto Rosales, West Alabama
FRESHMAN OF THE WEEK
Dakarai Shanks, RB, R-Fr., West Alabama
- Made his collegiate debut, helping the Tigers win 27-17 over Tuskegee in the Red Tails Classic.
- Rushed for 62 yards on 14 carries, averaging 4.4 yards per carry.
- Longest carry was for 13 yards.
Other nominees: none
2026 GSC Football Weekly Award Winners
Offensive Player of the Week
WK0 (Aug. 31): Luther Richesson, QB, West Alabama
Defensive Player of the Week
WK0 (Aug. 31): Anthony Oatis, DE, West Alabama
Special Teams Player of the Week
WK0 (Aug. 31): Lucas Edenfield, P, Valdosta State
Freshman of the Week
WK0 (Aug. 31): Dakarai Shanks, RB, West Alabama
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