Did you hear about the legendary coaches hitting the HBCU sidelines this season? Week 1 is here, and the excitement is absolutely electric! From intense rivalry games to bold FCS vs. FBS challenges, the gridiron is set for explosive action. Who do you think will pull off the biggest upset this opening weekend?
The highly anticipated Week 1 of the HBCU football season is upon us, promising a spectacle of talent, tradition, and thrilling matchups across the nation. This opening weekend features an array of compelling contests, ranging from fierce in-state rivalries to audacious FCS versus FBS challenges, all set to unfold in diverse venues from historic college campuses to professional NFL stadiums, signaling the full return of the vibrant HBCU gridiron culture.
One of the marquee matchups sees the renewal of the annual Route 1 Rivalry, where new head coach and former NFL star DeSean Jackson leads Delaware State into a challenging encounter against FCS playoff contender Delaware in Newark. This game is poised to be an early test of Jackson’s leadership and the Hornets’ resolve, as they aim to make a significant statement against their formidable in-state foe.
Further enhancing the excitement, Norfolk State’s newly appointed head football coach, NFL icon Michael Vick, makes his coaching debut by hosting CAA title contender Towson. The event, which also serves as both teams’ season opener, is garnering national attention, with the First Take crew scheduled to broadcast live from campus, highlighting the immense interest in Vick’s coaching tenure and the Spartans’ emerging talent under his guidance.
The competitive landscape extends with Alcorn State, under Coach Cedric Thomas, seeking an upset against a Southland Conference opponent, despite their offense still being a work in progress. Meanwhile, Alabama State, led by returning starting quarterback Andrew Body, braces for an FBS challenge against in-state rival UAB, a game where Coach Eddie Robinson Jr.’s defense will look to pressure Coach Trent Dilfer’s revamped Blazers offense in what promises to be a highly contested battle.
Elsewhere, former Florida A&M head coach Willie Simmons embarks on his new role by facing Bethune-Cookman, a team entering its third season under Coach Raymond Woodie Jr. with strong upset aspirations against FBS opponent Florida International. Concurrently, the 2024 HBCU National Champions, Jackson State Tigers, led by Coach TC Taylor, host Hampton, a team that, despite a historical advantage, faces a formidable challenge against Jackson State’s explosive playmakers at Veterans Memorial Stadium.
The iconic Orange Blossom Classic in Miami Gardens pits Howard against Florida A&M in a clash of teams with conference championship aspirations, promising an electric atmosphere at Hard Rock Stadium. Simultaneously, the Sam Shade era commences for Alabama A&M, as they travel to Fayetteville to confront SEC powerhouse Arkansas, signaling a brave Bulldogs squad unwilling to back down from the fight.
Other notable Week 1 games include the John Merritt Classic featuring North Carolina A&T and Coach Reggie Barlow’s Tigers, along with SWAC rivals Southern and Mississippi Valley State clashing as Coach Terrell Buckley begins his tenure with the Delta Devils. NCCU, fresh off an impressive offensive display, aims for a MEAC title contention, while Morgan State undertakes a challenging FBS matchup against South Alabama, relying on their defense and rushing attack.
Grambling will welcome NAIA HBCU football team Langston in Shreveport, with the G-Men entering as heavy favorites but needing focused play to avert an upset. The 40th Labor Day Classic in Houston, marked by palpable tension and media exchanges between rival coaches, underscores the fierce pride and importance of securing an early, crucial win in this heated SWAC West battle.
