July 11, 2025

WKU Football Players Earn Preseason All-Conference Honors

News Summary

WKU Football celebrates nine players named to the Athlon Sports Preseason All-Conference USA Team, showcasing their talent ahead of the season. This includes standout First Team selections such as Quarterback Maverick McIvor and Wide Receiver Matthew Henry. The team also welcomes 16 new recruits, emphasizing their strategy for the upcoming season opener against Sam Houston. With significant player honors and a strong roster, WKU aims to build on their prior successes.

Bowling Green, KY

WKU Football has made headlines by earning nine spots on the Athlon Sports 2025 Preseason All-Conference USA Team, highlighting the skill and talent of its roster ahead of the upcoming season. The accolades come as the team prepares for its 2025 season opener against Sam Houston on August 23 at Houchens-Smith Stadium.

Leading the First Team selections are five standout players: Quarterback Maverick McIvor, Wide Receiver Matthew Henry, Offensive Lineman Marshall Jackson, Kicker John Cannon, and Punter Cole Maynard. Additionally, Receiver K.D. Hutchinson and Cornerback Kent Robinson were recognized on the Second Team for offense and defense, respectively. Defensive Back Demarko Williams found a spot on the Third Team Defense, while Defensive End Harper Holloman was placed on the Fourth Team Defense.

The 2025 season marks a significant year for WKU Football, as they not only aim to build on their previous season but also feature three honorees in the 2025 Conference USA Hall of Fame class. Brandon Doughty, a former quarterback, becomes the first football player from WKU to be inducted into the CUSA Hall of Fame, celebrated for his outstanding career achievements, including holding records for 12,855 passing yards and 111 touchdown passes. Doughty was pivotal in leading WKU to its first FBS conference championship in 2015, coupled with back-to-back bowl victories.

Alongside Doughty, Travis Hudson and Jessica Lucas were also honored for their contributions to WKU’s athletic program, particularly in volleyball. Hudson is recognized for his leadership as the first WKU volleyball coach in the CUSA Hall of Fame, garnering an impressive 780 career wins, 34 conference championships, and multiple NCAA Tournament appearances. Jessica Lucas, who excelled as a setter, is the first in CUSA history to earn Hall of Fame status, leaving an impressive legacy with 5,338 career assists and four All-American recognitions.

As the 2025 Football season approaches, WKU recently announced the addition of 16 new players, aiming to strengthen both offensive and defensive lines with eight offensive and seven defensive recruits, along with a specialist. The upcoming season schedule shows promising matchups, starting with Sam Houston and followed by contests against North Alabama, Toledo, and Nevada, among others. Each game offers a chance for WKU to capitalize on their recent honors and showcase the depth of their roster.

The opening game against Sam Houston is set for a 6 p.m. CT kickoff and will be broadcast nationally on CBS Sports Network, building anticipation among fans and followers. Following the initial matchup, WKU will engage in a full schedule designed to test their skills and readiness as they aim for continued success.

After finishing the 2024 season with an overall record of 8-6, which included participation in both the CUSA Championship Game and the Boca Raton Bowl, this year’s team hopes to leverage their recognition and past experiences to achieve even greater heights. All kick times are subject to change based on television placements, adding an additional layer of excitement as the season unfolds.

With a solid pre-season recognition and a roster ready to take the field, WKU Football looks forward to a thrilling 2025 season ahead.

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Additional Resources

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