Williams and St. John earn national accolades

LOGAN WENZ
PHOTOGRAPHER

KAITRISS DEGROFT
STAFF WRITER

1/26/2026

Alma College’s 2025 football season was one to remember, largely due to the multiple numerous national accolades earned by two senior individual players.

Senior running back Eddie Williams (’26) capped an outstanding senior season for Alma College, setting a single-season program record with 1,485 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns.

Williams also earned a semifinalist spot for the 2025 Gagliardi Trophy. The Gagliardi Trophy is an award in NCAA Division III football, given annually to the nation’s most outstanding player for excellence in athletics, academics, and community service. 

Senior quarterback Carter St. John (’26) topped the MIAA with 20 passing touchdowns and more than 1,600 yards during league play, and was named to the 2025 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team in recognition of his nonprofit work, QBs vs. Cancer. 

St. John credited much of his success to the players around him, emphasizing the importance of balance, preparation, and team chemistry.

“I think a lot of the success we had throwing the ball was due to a lot of different reasons. We had such a great running game that teams were busy trying to stop Eddie Williams, which made my job a lot easier,” said St. John. 

St. John also pointed to the consistency and work ethic of offensive linemen and receivers. 

“We had a great group of offensive linemen led by JB Couch and Maddox Mozal, and because they were working so hard up front, I had plenty of time to dissect coverages and throw the ball with no pressure in my face,” said St. John. 

Beyond his on-field success, St. John founded QB vs. Cancer, a nonprofit initiative aimed at raising awareness and support in the fight against cancer. 

“The Alma CARES game in 2023 made me realize how many people are living with a loved one who has battled or is still battling cancer, and I wanted to use the platform of college football to help others,” said St. John. 

Jason Couch (’97), Alma College Head Football Coach, provides some insight into QB’s vs. Cancer and the large impact that St. John has made.

“Carter recruited more than 40 QBs across the country to join this organization.  I think it is wonderful that he found a way to use his talents to make an impact on something bigger than football,” said Couch. 

While St. John made an impact both on and off the field, Alma’s offense was equally defined by the historic performance of senior running back Eddie Williams.

Williams’ work ethic and dedication translated into record-breaking numbers, earning him widespread recognition across the conference and nationally.

“This past off-season, Eddie took his training extremely seriously. He was in the best shape of his life.  He also studied the game more than ever. Eddie spent time reviewing opponents and mentally preparing for games, putting himself in the best position possible to succeed,” said Couch. 

Alma’s standout performers didn’t just excel individually, but they also brought national attention to the program. Reflecting on their accomplishments, Couch praised both players.

“I am incredibly happy for them. They each possess a gift, but they have also worked extremely hard to develop it. Their recognition has brought Alma College into DIII national news,” said Couch.

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