FRISCO — The Southland Conference continued its national rise on Wednesday, placing 12 student-athletes and coaches on the finalist lists for the 2025 Stats Perform FCS National Awards, which honor the top performers in Division I FCS football across coaching, offense, defense, freshman impact, and overall excellence.
The Southland earned finalists in all five major awards — the Walter Payton Award, Buck Buchanan Award, Jerry Rice Award, Eddie Robinson Award, and Doris Robinson Scholar-Athlete Award.
Walter Payton Award (FCS Offensive Player of the Year)
Eddie Lee Marburger, UTRGV
UTRGV quarterback Eddie Lee Marburger was named a finalist for the Walter Payton Award, presented annually to the top offensive player in the FCS. Marburger led the Vaqueros’ high-powered attack throughout their inaugural season, emerging as one of the subdivision’s most dynamic offensive playmakers.
Buck Buchanan Award (FCS Defensive Player of the Year)
Kaleb Proctor, Southeastern Louisiana
Jaden Southard, Stephen F. Austin
Southeastern Louisiana defensive tackle Kaleb Proctor and Stephen F. Austin linebacker Jaden Southard were selected as finalists for the Buck Buchanan Award, which recognizes the nation’s top defensive player. Proctor delivered one of the most dominant pass-rushing seasons in the FCS, while Southard anchored the Lumberjacks’ front seven with standout production and leadership.
Jerry Rice Award (FCS Freshman of the Year)
Jaiden Haygood, UTRGV
EJ Colson, UIW
Tony Diaz, UTRGV
Xai’Shaun Edwards, HCU
Four Southland standouts were named finalists for the Jerry Rice Award, presented to the top freshman in the FCS. UTRGV’s Jaiden Haygood and Tony Diaz, UIW quarterback EJ Colson, and HCU running back Xai’Shaun Edwards all earned recognition after posting immediate impact seasons and helping elevate their programs.
Eddie Robinson Award (FCS Coach of the Year)
Travis Bush, UTRGV
Colby Carthel, Stephen F. Austin
UTRGV’s Travis Bush and Stephen F. Austin’s Colby Carthel were selected as finalists for the Eddie Robinson Award, presented to the national coach of the year. Bush led UTRGV to one of the strongest debut seasons in FCS history, while Carthel guided SFA to a conference championship, a top-eight national seed, and a first-round bye in the FCS playoffs.
Doris Robinson Scholar-Athlete Award
Ky Thomas, Stephen F. Austin
SFA’s Ky Thomas was named a finalist for the Doris Robinson Award, which honors an FCS student-athlete who exemplifies excellence in academics, leadership, and community impact. Thomas earned recognition for his achievements both on the field and in the classroom, representing the Southland’s commitment to holistic student-athlete success.
A Record-Setting Year for the Southland
With finalists in all five major national awards, the Southland Conference continues to establish itself as one of the most competitive and balanced leagues in the FCS. The conference’s 12 total finalists reflect the strength of its programs, the depth of its talent, and the continued momentum across the league.
Award winners will be announced at the Stats Perform FCS National Awards Show on Jan. 4 in Nashville, Tenn.