The Valdosta State football team has secured six selections for the 2026 Preseason All-Gulf South Conference Team, recognized for excellence by the league's head coaches. Key players include QB Jameson Holcomb, OT Ty Merkle, LB Julius Pascal, and DB Rickey Ransom, with RB Shawn Paschall earning spots in both the running back and return specialist categories. Holcomb shone in 2025, completing 61.1% of his passes with 12 touchdown throws. Merkle and Pascal are set to bolster their respective positions as integral leaders in their roles, while Ransom strengthens the Blazers' defense.

By the Numbers
  • Holcomb threw for 1,539 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2025, leading the team with a 61.1% completion rate.
  • Paschall averaged 5.5 yards per carry, with 225 rushing yards and four touchdowns in his freshman season.
State of Play
  • The Blazers will start their 2026 season at home against Emory and Henry University on August 27th.
  • The team is looking to build on its strong offensive and defensive performances from the previous season.
What's Next

The upcoming season will test Valdosta State's ability to maintain its momentum, especially with several key players returning. Initial matchups against competitive teams will reveal how effectively they can implement their strategies. Success in early games could set a positive tone for the rest of the season.

Bottom Line

Valdosta State's strong representation on the Preseason All-GSC Team highlights the talent within the program. The Blazers are poised for a successful 2026 season, and the performances of their standout players will be critical for achieving their goals.