Star athlete, previously with Georgia and LSU, now switches to an Historically Black College or University (HBCU)
Former Star Arik Gilbert Makes a Splash in HBCU Football
Hold onto your helmets, folks! Former standouts for Georgia, LSU, and Nebraska, Arik Gilbert has just shaken things up by transferring to Savannah State University. This move sees Gilbert joining the SIAC ranks, fueling hope for a stronger Tigers team amidst recent coaching shakeups in the region.[1]
Standing tall at 6'5" and tipping the scales at 270 pounds, Gilbert played a few seasons in the FBS before choosing to take a leap to Division II HBCU football.[1] Known for his impressive stature, Gilbert was a five-star recruit and ranked as the ninth overall prospect in the Rivals 100 for his 2020 class before committing to LSU.[1] Alas, his college career hasn't been all rosy receptions and touchdown dances, with a series of setbacks—including run-ins with the law—that have led him to this juncture. Let's dive into the story!
A Journey Through College Football
Gilbert joined LSU, where he managed to put up 368 yards on 35 receptions and snagged two touchdowns in limited action.[1] After that, he made an in-conference move to Georgia, sat out the first season, and then found playing time hard to come by as the Bulldogs battled for a national championship.
Then came his tenure with Nebraska, which ended before he ever got to take the field. He was nabbed by the long arm of the law twice, choosing to depart the program in its entirety.[1]
Now, Gilbert puts his hometown of Marietta, Georgia, in his sights, ready to represent Savannah State as they make their push for a title.
Gilbert's Gleaming SIAC Impact
The departure of key coaches from Miles College and Fort Valley State leaves gaps in SIAC's power structure, opening the door for a resurgent Savannah State to stake their claim.[1] Last year, the team finished with a 5-5 record, achieving four conference wins, and featuring one of the top defenses in the conference while straining to find consistency on offense.[1] In comes Gilbert—who, with his prodigious receiving skills, could be the missing piece in the Tigers' offensive puzzle.
With Gilbert on board, the Tigers look to put their best foot forward under head coach Aaron Kelton, eyeing an SIAC championship and aiming to outshine their opponents in the 2025 season. Their opener against Edward Waters University is set for August 30th, marking the beginning of a pivotal campaign.[1]
Now that we've got things cooking, let's see how Gilbert fares in this new chapter of his collegiate journey, and whether he can help Savannah State ascend the SIAC ranks, reigniting the fire in their pursuit of football (and titles) glory.
Sources:
- [1] Rivals.com (2023) Arik Gilbert transfers to Savannah State. Retrieved February 10, 2023, from https://www.rivals.com/news/arik-gilbert-announces-transfer-to-savannah-state
Additional Enrichment
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- Arik Gilbert's transfer to Savannah State University from the NCAA Football ranks to the SIAC (Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference) may potentially boost their 2025 season ambitions.
- Gilbert, a former five-star recruit, played American-football in the FBS (Football Bowl Subdivision) before deciding to transfer to a Division II HBCU (Historically Black College or University).
- With Gilbert joining the Tigers, Savannah State may have found the key player they need to address their offensive inconsistencies, with the aim of securing an SIAC championship.
- Gilbert's performance in the 2025 season could significantly impact sports analysis and discussions about HBCU football, following his impressive yards and touchdowns in his previous college careers with Georgia, LSU, and Nebraska.
- With coaches from Miles College and Fort Valley State leaving their respective positions, Gilbert's arrival at Savannah State could signify a shift in power dynamics within the SIAC, as the Tigers aim to replace the vacant spots left behind.
