SAVANNAH, Ga. () — Savannah State head coach Aaron Kelton officially named Christian Burks as the starting quarterback. Kelton cited Burks’ consistency and experience as key reasons why he is getting the nod.

The redshirt junior played in eight games last year. He completed 55 percent of his passes for 469 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions. His best passing game came versus Fort Valley State. We went 12 for 23 for 170 yards and one interception.

Saturday also marks the first time Savannah State has opened the season at home since 2022. That year they loss to Southeastern, 34-14. Saturday’s home game also begins conference play for the Tigers, which means they must hit the ground running.

“Downside is not in the vocabulary,” Kelton said. “We feel like  whoever we were playing, we’re playing at home. We’re going to be ready to go. Right away, it allows us an opportunity to get on the top side of the conference.”

Savannah State opens the 2025 campaign at home against Edward Waters on Aug. 30 with the kickoff set for 6 p.m.