September 19th, 2025 9:00am
From Edward Waters sports information:
Jacksonville, Fla. — Edward Waters University Athletics officially announced on Tuesday the promotion of Brian Jenkins from interim head coach to head football coach, following a historic start to the 2025 season that has seen the Tigers surge to a 3-0 record for the first time since 1964.
Jenkins, who was originally named interim head coach on July 16, has wasted little time leaving his mark on the program. Under his leadership, the Tigers opened the season with a commanding road win over Savannah State, followed by a decisive home-opening victory against Miles College, before capturing one of the biggest wins in program history this past weekend — a 41-38 upset over No. 13 Virginia Union in the inaugural Unity Classic.
The Tigers' unbeaten start under Jenkins has energized the program and Tiger Nation alike. His emphasis on discipline, accountability, and high-energy play has translated into success on the field in all three phases of the game.
"Coach Jenkins has proven in just a short period of time that he is the right leader to guide Edward Waters football into the future," said Interim Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics, Ashley Conner. "His passion, his vision for this program, and the results speak for themselves. We are proud to remove the interim tag and officially name him our head football coach."
Edward Waters' 3-0 start is the best for the program in more than 60 years, and it comes against one of the most challenging early-season schedules in program history. The Tigers have combined explosive offense, suffocating defense, and game-changing special teams plays to earn recognition as one of the hottest teams in the SIAC and NCAA Division II.
"I am humbled and honored to be officially named head coach of this program," said Jenkins. "This is about more than football — it's about our young men, our university, and our community. I'm proud of what we've accomplished so far, but we know the job is just beginning. Our best football is still ahead of us."
Jenkins and the Tigers will look to continue their historic run next week in a highly anticipated matchup when Edward Waters travels to Daytona Beach to face Bethune-Cookman University. For Jenkins, it will mark a special return to his BCU, a place where he led the Wildcats to three straight FCS playoff appearances, as the Tigers aim to remain unbeaten. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. and will air live on HBCU Go.