Quay Davis is a 6’0, 193-pound receiver who played his high school ball at Skyline HS. That’s the same school that produced Grambling State great DeVante Kincade. He was rated as the 23rd-best wide receiver in the 2021 class according to 247Sports’ Composite rating system. Davis committed to four schools in less than three years before coming to Jackson State under Deion Sanders. 

“It’s going to be a great experience,” Davis told 24/7 Sports of playing for Deion Sanders. “He’s a Hall of Famer. Not too many people get chance like that. He going to teach me a lot. I have to learn a lot. There is going to be a lot to it.”

Davis played sparingly at Jackson State during the 2022 season – catching just six passes for 33 yards on the season in a talented wide receiver corp. 

Now he’s headed to the reigning Celebration Bowl and SWAC champion FAMU Rattlers.

Gabe Brooks of 24/7 Sports did an NFL prospect evaluation of Quay Davis back in 2020. Below is the scouting report.

Stoutly built receiver with virtually college-ready size. Adequate to above average height and impressive build. Can play outside or in the slot. Field-stretching threat with physical style and competitive nature. Generally quick off the line. Proven ball-winner in 50-50 scenarios. Plays with impressive body awareness and adjustment skill. Elevates and positions himself to win in the red zone. Intensity and effort have shown in games and elite 7-on-7 situations. Faces strong competition in Texas Class 6A. Owns the play strength to be a factor as a blocker in the perimeter run game. Fairly sudden athlete in short-to-intermediate range with high ceiling as a route-runner. Functionally athletic on the field, but athleticism lacks verified context in track or combine categories. Can improve top-end speed. Gets on top of DB’s but can separate more consistently. Production dropped from sophomore to junior season, but rebounded in senior year. Production does not match other top-end TXHSFB wideouts. Athletically violent and plays with some wasted motion at times. High-major receiver prospect who could become multi-year impact starter with long-term NFL Draft potential.

The post FAMU football lands two-time SWAC transfer Quay Davis appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Hinckley sat down with HBCU Gameday to discuss how his journey did not start ideally like most players, but through his mother’s messages of patience, he overcame obstacles to go from a walk-on to an NFL Draft prospect.

“If I didn’t have the patience, I probably wouldn’t be in the position that I am in now,” Hinckley said. “She would always tell me to be patient,”

Before Hinckley stepped onto Bowie State’s campus, his mother became sick and he decided to stay home to be close to her. During this time, he was not on a team but he still aspired to play college football.

“I was still working out, hoping I could go play somewhere but my thought process was my mother first,” He said. “I got here [Bowie State] by luck if we wanna be honest. I was just going to seven-on-sevens and one-on-ones around the Maryland area,”

His talent caught the eye of his Bowie State teammate and he was put in contact with then head coach Damon Wilson.

“After that, it was just me being a pest to Coach Wilson for about 2-3 months and begging him to let me walk on,”

Hinckley’s patience and hard work paid off and in 2019 he officially became a walk-on at Bowie State.

He didn’t see much time at wide receiver in his first season, but he continued to improve during that year and the 2020 canceled season in preparation for the 2021 season. But before he could play a down in the 2021 season, he was struck with tragedy as his mother passed away.

“My biggest cheerleader, unfortunately, [on] July 3, 2021, she died. She died of stage four breast cancer,”

Keshane Hinckley managed to play well through the season but with his mother on his mind, he would quickly walk to the locker room immediately after games once family and friends entered the field.

“I didn’t really stay too long after the games, I was leaving fast, because you know, everybody around their family. I didn’t really have too much family come and see me play. Every game pretty much I’ll just sit in my locker and just be quiet. Head down or head up, eyes closed and be feeling like I’m talking to her little bit,”

His success on the field reminded him of a conversation he had with his mother about being patient and taking advantage of his opportunities.

“She knew what I could do. I told her that I was really going to shake up the CIAA a little bit. She said ‘Yeah, you are when you get the chance to,’ She kept telling me, ‘Your time will come, you just gotta make the best with your opportunity,’”

After the 2021 season, Hinckly earned a scholarship and over the next two seasons, he became Bowie State’s second all-time leader in receiving yards.

He finished his career with 143 receptions for 1,778 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns.

This season he led the CIAA with 55 receptions and averaging 5.5 per catch.

His performance earned an invitation to the HBCU Pigskin Showdown and HBCU Legacy Bowl and he hopes to hear his name called in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Keshane Hinckley knows patience made a significant impact on his journey. Because he started as a walk-on, he made sure to share the importance of patience with teammates.

“The little stuff that my mom taught me, like patience, I’m trying to instill in them too,” He explained. “If you got the patience, who knows what you can do.”

He made the most of every opportunity and will continue to as he will head to New Orleans to showcase his abilities on the big stage during the HBCU Legacy Bowl on the NFL Network.

The post Keshane Hinckley driven by mother’s wisdom on road to NFL draft appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

FAMU affinity groups have poured a solid $1 million annually into the football program.  That makes the conglomerate the single biggest contributor to Florida A&M Athletics.  It has not always been that way.  Coming off a decade of mostly losing seasons, Rattlers were fed up with everyone working in a silo and expecting things to get better for the storied program.

 The rich history of FAMU football can stand up to any HBCU program.  From the historic conference record of Jake Gaither, winning 22 of 25 SIAC championships to Rudy Hubbard and the historic 1978 team winning the inaugural Division I-AA (FCS) national championship to Billy Joe’s historic run of the 1990s where they won more NCAA Playoff games than any other school, FAMU has seen football at the highest levels.

Wallowing in mediocrity was an embarrassment to the program.  With a rotation of athletics directors, each with his/her idea of how to rebuild the program, novel ideas were a dime-a-dozen.  Nothing worked to attain and sustain a winning program.  Meanwhile, attendance was steady.  Florida A&M annually finished in the Top 10 in attendance for FCS schools, often landing in the Top 5.

Robinson brought stability to the university side

With the hiring of Larry Robinson, Ph.D. as the 12th permanent president of the university in 2017, FAMU’s academic side began to steady.  Issues with SACS, processes, and instability began to subside as the scientists by education began strategically setting the school on solid ground.

With Robinson’s hiring of Simmons, it brought stability to the football program.  He was a perfect fit for FAMU, as was thought by athletics director John Eason who hired him.  He was young, energetic, brilliant, and respected the culture of FAMU.  As they say, he was just what the doctor ordered.

Simmons brought winning ways back to FAMU

In 2018, his first season, the Rattlers would go 6-5, ending the season with a loss in the Florida Classic. That made eight consecutive losses to arch-rival Bethune-Cookman.  That left a sour taste in everyone’s mouth.  While Rattler nation was happy to finally get on the winning side of things, it wasn’t enough.

This is where the brilliance of Simmons building the program back up hit full stride.  Simmons challenged FAMUans to do more.  He requested investment from everyone to get the desired outcome they sought on the field.  

After 2018, Simmons never won less than nine games each season.  In 2021, the Rattlers even received a bid to the FCS playoffs for the first time since Billy Joe left the program.  Probably one of Simmons’ most exciting feats was to end the domination in the Florida Classic by B-CU.  The Rattlers are now on a three-game winning streak in the rivalry game.

The FAMU National Alumni Association, at the time under the leadership of Col. Gregory Clark, stepped up immensely.  Previously the FAMU NAA had focused primarily on raising money for academic scholarships, but began to concentrate concurrently on athletics fundraising.  That has continued under the current leadership of Curtis Johnson.

FAMU’s affinity groups contribute big money to FAMU Football

While the Rattler Boosters, National Rattler “F” Club, FAMU National Alumni Association and FAMU Foundation were already contributing $100,000 to the head coaches’ salary, it was pressed for more funds.  FAMU Athletics would revive one of the most successful fundraising efforts to date.  Named the “Strike Tour,” it is a concept visualized by former Associate Athletics Director and Senior Woman Administrator Angela Suggs.  It was a tour through hotbeds of Rattlers where a host committee would gather donors and present the donations at a reception in their respective cities.  It was started in 2014 with head coach Earl Homes, but did not continue under Alex Wood.  This effort grew from over $100,000 in its first effort to over $500,000 in 2021

With the $100,000 going toward coaches’ salaries and the $500,000 for the Strike Tour, donations to the football program exceeded $600,000.  These same groups were asked to put into Summer scholarships for the football team.  Mostly with the FAMU Foundation contributing to this effort, another $250,000-$300,000 annually was provided to FAMU Athletics.  That boosted the total donation to the program to around $900,000.

When you add in the nutrition initiative, the cooling and recovery station, and various other requests from the athletics department, these affinity groups were in fact as a conglomerate the school’s answer to big-money donors.  FAMU Athletics was not raising outside of ticket sales anywhere close to the amount that was donated.  Revenues from advertisements, sponsorships, and the such could not compete with the hard cash donated by the groups.

A host of issues and circumstances led to tension with Sykes

Vice President and Director of Athletics Tiffani-Dawn Sykes came aboard in January of 2023.  Her first order of business was to fine tune the newly-implemented athletics academics and compliance department to standards set forth by successful institutions.  After the messy eligibility crisis of 2022, Robinson had taken control of the academics and compliance department outside of athletics and funded it through the university.

Around June or July of 2023 is when things began to get rocky.  Without much prior notice, season ticket holders and Investing in Champions  (FAMU athletics investment package) participants noticed sweeping changes and substantial increases in the packages.  In addition, a total revamping of the parking at the stadium would take place.  This was not the fault of Sykes as the lot is owned by the university.  Additionally, a popular tailgating spot was terminated. Sykes said a risk management report deemed the area unsafe for tailgating.

Then there was the first game.  The home opener on Sept. 16 against the University of West Florida.  The gates did not open in time for the game.  Through the first quarter there was less than 25% of the fans in the stands.  Some season ticket holders and game ticket holders did not get into the game until the second quarter.  Long lines and a complete failure in game operations led to this debacle.  In many ways stakeholders felt this was an unforgivable offense.

This explains why Sykes’ attempt to select a coach without input from the money groups was a slight to them.  For outsiders that did not understand what the big deal was, it was because these groups had elevated their financial involvement in the program, but were discounted when it decided to move forward.  FAMU Football did not get to be national champions because of one person, it was a program invested in and sustained for six solid years that led to the team hoisting the Cricket Celebration Bowl trophy on Dec.16, 2023.

This group that had written the checks for the football team’s ascension felt that the program was solid, even with the resignation of Simmons.  Simmons stated to HBCU Gameday at his only in-person interview since his departure that if FAMU were to appoint one of the coaches to the head coach position, the 2024 team could be even better than the 2023 team.

That didn’t happen.  With the players, donors and alumni pushing for an internal hire, Sykes was set on remaking the program with someone from the outside.  FAMU football players said Sykes continued to push the notion of bringing in Shawn Gibbs, but they were not buying it.  This is why Gibbs was given the treatment he was after emerging as a candidate.  No doubt Gibbs is a good coach.  He has won 16 games in two years at Fort Valley State.  The actions taken against him were a by-product of the Rattler nation rejecting the idea of bringing in someone from the outside, while in their minds a six-year span of dedicated donations and internal processes had brought the program back to relevance.

As the committee meeting on Jan. 21 rolled on, it was clear that the groups had chosen four insiders to be considered for the job.  Moderating the meeting was Florida A&M Chief Operating Officer Donald Palm, Ph.D.  He and the search firm strongly suggested that a fifth candidate be added.  Even with that, it is apparent the supermajority of ballots had the same five candidates.  It was an expression of the groups using their voice to promote maintaining the current process with a coach currently on staff or close to the staff.

A lot of damage has been done to the program in just over 20 days

Even if FAMU were to quickly hire one of the coaches on staff, severe damage would have been done to the infrastructure that was in place.  A bevy of top-caliber athletes who had committed to transferring to FAMU saw the process playing out and de-committing.  Most notably, probably the best running back in Florida.  Rodney Hill, a former Florida State University standout running back, was committed to Florida A&M.  Clemson University tight end Sage Ennis also committed to FAMU citing the way FAMU uses the tight end in their schemes.  Hill decommitted from FAMU and is now headed to the University of Miami, while Ennis will now play for the Virginia Cavaliers. These are just a couple of examples of talent lost and why FAMU is now behind in recruiting when they were sitting pretty at the end of December.

Even staffing has been affected.  The departure of FAMU Director of Football Recruiting Devin Rispress sent shock waves through Florida A&M fans.  He was a major part of the secret sauce.  Simmons said he was a much better coach with the impact players Rispress was bringing in.  He caught the eye of Deion Sanders and is now recruiting for the Colorado Buffalos.  LaTroy Johnson, former FAMU Director of Football Operations has departed for South Carolina State.  These are two key pieces to the program that greatly contributed to its success.  With the uncertainty looming about the impending hiring, this is why the delay has caused harm to Florida A&M Football.

The FAMU National Alumni Association and the Rattler Boosters have expressed their frustrations in both letters and verbally.  It has been an effort to get everyone on the same page to beat arch-rival B-CU, win the SWAC Championship, and win the Cricket Celebration Bowl.  The reason Florida A&M faithful are so upset at the process is because they just don’t want to lose the feeling of being on top.

The post FAMU Football Fallout: How did Rattler Nation get here? Part II appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

FAMU is currently the only school in the SWAC without a head coach. Since Willie Simmons announced his resignation on Jan.1 to become the running backs coach at Duke University, there has been a virtual whirlwind at Florida A&M University.  The 2023 HBCU National Champions and Cricket Celebration Bowl Champions took home the top honor after winning their first-ever SWAC Championship. 

The Florida A&M fanbase did not even get to enjoy the trophy for a month before utter turmoil broke out.  FAMU Vice President and Director of Athletics Tiffani-Dawn Sykes began the process of replacing Simmons with Fort Valley State head coach Shawn Gibbs.  That did not sit well with a large section of Rattler nation.  Their last encounter with Gibbs surrounded an incident of fisticuffs during halftime when he was an assistant coach at North Carolina A&T in 2019.

The current football players on the Rattler squad immediately endorsed James Colzie III for the position.  The players wanted to keep continuity on the team as they felt they were in what was built to be a successful program.

The FAMU alumni were determined to be heard

A third faction was the alumni.  Several alumni and fans were in support of Billy Rolle for the next head coach.  Rolle was brought in with Simmons after a historic career coaching high school football in Miami.  He was a special assistant to the head coach and nickelbacks coach.  Rolle was a FAMU Sports Hall of Famer for his play as a defensive back for Rudy Hubbard.  He is a favorite son of FAMU as his mother and father are also members of the FAMU Sports Hall of Fame.  He comes from FAMU Athletics royalty and has a historic resume in coaching.

The FAMU National Alumni Association was so offended at the snubbing of the coaches on staff and the appearance of fast-tracking Gibbs, that they issued a vote of “no confidence” on Gibbs as well as Sykes.  This is an unprecedented step that had not been seen at Florida A&M before.

The FAMU Board of Trustees met for an update on the process.  It was revealed that besides the board chair, many of the trustees expressed confusion and misunderstandings about such a high-profile university hire.  

It was also emphasized that FAMU Athletics was operating in the red.  Even with two guaranteed money games, a sold-out homecoming, a sold-out additional home game (SWAC Championship), 11,000 additional patrons at the Florida Blue Florida Classic, and a Cricket Celebration Bowl appearance, the department was far behind in revenue generation.

The Board of Trustees suggested a committee of the affinity group that has financially greatly supported the program over the last six years.  The National Rattler “F” Club, Rattler Boosters, 220 Quarterback Club, FAMU NAA, and the FAMU Foundation were tasked with voting on a preliminary list accumulated by the search firm to be considered for the next head coach.

How did FAMU get here?

In 2018, when Willie Simmons was hired by then athletics director Dr. John Eason, FAMU football was in shambles.  The team was on the tail end of serving NCAA probation for academics.  Unfortunately, FAMU head coach Alex Wood never stood a chance as FAMU head coach.  Upon being hired the team was not able to have Spring practice one year, lost a day each week of practice where players had to attend study hall, and dealt with scholarship reductions the entire time he was a head coach at FAMU.

For those unaware of the atmosphere Wood worked under, he appeared to be one of the worst hires.  Truth is we may never know what kind of coach Wood would have been if he simply had a chance.

Upon Simmons’ arrival, he began to verbalize what it would take to build a winning program.  He was respectful to the FAMU base, was well versed in the history of FAMU football, and investment in the program began to elevate to levels never seen before.  In addition, the term of Kortne Gosha as Vice President and Director of Athletics was something FAMU needed for a long time.  Gosha was a facilities expert and immediately began improving facilities.  Before leaving as athletics director, Eason oversaw the installation of the artificial turf on Ken Riley Field.

When Simmons arrived, he would shun taking recruits to see the field or the fieldhouse.  With Eason’s turf and Gosha’s revamping and renovation of the locker room, facilities took a big leap forward.  Under Gosha’s watch, FAMU acquired a deal with Lebron James/Nike.  Florida A&M would become the flagship school for Lebron James’ creativity within his signature shoe line. 

The biggest improvement was alumni investment.

While all of those things happened, the biggest thing to happen was a tangible investment into the football program by alumni, friends, and fans.  The state would only allow a maximum salary of $200,000 with state funds.  To reach the five-year deal at $300,000 annually for Simmons, the groups mentioned above had to commit to supplementing the additional $100,000 annually.  It happened without a blink.  In FAMU’s history, this was a turning point.  For once, all the affinity groups, the FAMU Foundation, FAMU Athletics, and the university were on the same page.

The results were instantly visible on the field.  After a nominal 6-5 opening campaign, Simmons would win nine games in each of the next three seasons.  In 2023, the team would finish 12-1, with the only loss a very close call at the University of South Florida out of the FBS division.

The plan collectively devised over six years was seen as a great investment

All of the things Simmons had championed at Florida A&M came together in the form of championships.  FAMUans felt a great return on investment and did not want the party to stop.  Many felt that like most athletics teams in the past, you re-arrange the staff, continue the same support and with the returning players the team would have a shot a repeating as champions.

The Rattlers Boosters, who had donated a record number of dollars to athletics, the 220 Quarterback Club, and the National Rattler “F” Club were stepping up and filling the gaps that had previously plagued the football program.  Complete with an abundant nutrition program that translated to all sports, things that FAMU needed, they had finally found a way to finance it and it gave championship results.  The spirit around FAMU football, the rise of the institution’s status as a Top 100 institution, and keeping the crown of Top Public HBCU as reported by U.S. News and World Report, were all things that had FAMUans beaming with pride.  Being only the second SWAC school ever to win the Celebration Bowl despite just being in the conference for three years was a badge of honor.  In addition to all of this, the Rattlers peaked at No.5 in the AFCA poll and ended the season in the Top 10.

Stay tuned for part 2 on Friday, Jan. 26. Exclusively on HBCU Gameday)

The post FAMU Football Fallout: How did Rattler Nation get here? Part I appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

FRISCO, Texas — Having already been named to seven different All-American teams and earning four different Defensive Player of the Year Awards, Tennessee State University football’s Terrell Allen garnished his biggest postseason award on Saturday night as he was named the 2023 Buck Buchanan Award winner at the FCS National Awards Banquet, given annually to national defensive player of the year in Division I FCS college football.

Allen, who was named the Big South-OVC Defensive Player of the Year led the FCS in in sacks (14.5), sack yardage (123), tackles for loss (28), and tackle yardage for loss (149) during the regular season.

The Little Rock native finished the season with 65 tackles (44 solo, 21 assists), forcing five fumbles and logging 10 QB hurries. He had a four-game span of finishing with 4.0+ TFLs and set a Tennessee State University record with 6.5 against Lindenwood, while recording 10 tackles and 4.5 sacks in the contest. His 28.0 TFLs is a new TSU single-season record.

The second-year Tigers has played in 21 games for TSU after transferring in from Austin Peay. Allen has recorded 101 tackles, 40 TFLs, and 19 sacks as a member of Eddie George‘s team. He has 152 career stops, 62 TFLs, and 24.0 sacks.

Allen becomes the fifth HBCU player to win the award and the third Ohio Valley Conference player.

The Buchanan Award, first presented in 1995 and in its 29th season, is named for legendary defensive lineman Junious “Buck” Buchanan, who starred at Grambling State as part of his Hall of Fame career. Past recipients include Dexter Coakley, Rashean Mathis, Jared Allen and Arthur Moats.

The award show will air Sunday afternoon on Bally Sports at 4:00 p.m. CT.

The post Tennessee State University DE Terrell Allen wins 2023 Buck Buchanan Award appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The MEAC Offensive Lineman of the Year announced on X (formally known as Twitter) that after visiting South Carolina, he will use his last year of eligibility to play for the Gamecocks next season.

Torricelli Simpkins leaves behind a great career at NCCU as a three-year starter under coach Trei Oliver. Before becoming the MEAC Offensive Lineman of the Year, he was named to the Bluebloods 2023 FCS Preseason All-American Third Team and the Reese’s Senior Bowl Watchlist. This year Simpkins started all 12 games to anchor an offensive line that allowed the fewest sacks in the MEAC.

In 2022, Simpkins was named to the All-MEAC First Team after starting at center for the league’s top offense with 81 pancake blocks.

During this freshman year in 2021, he started all 11 games and was selected to the 2021 Phil Steele FCS All-MEAC Third Team.

The 6’5 320 pound Charlotte native will now become teammates with former South Carolina State running back Jawarn Howell, who committed to playing for the Gamecocks in December.

His commitment will make another key player to transfer from NCCU’s talented roster. Defensive backs Khalil Baker transferred to Elon and Jason Chambers transferred to Appalachian State. Linebacker Jayden Flaker transferred to Memphis. Defensive lineman Kendrick DuJour transferred to Coffeyville Community College. Linebacker Corey Peterson and wide receiver Devin Smith are still looking for new homes in the transfer portal.

NCCU lost a top offensive lineman last year as Corey Bullock starred for the Eagles before transferring to Maryland.

The post Former NCCU offensive lineman Torricelli Simpkins headed to SEC appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Running back Rodney Hill and Offensive Lineman Qae’Shon Sapp have announced on social media that they will not be transferring to FAMU but instead will reenter the transfer portal.

The announcements come as no surprise as now former Rattler head coach Willie Simmons announced that he will resign from FAMU to become the running backs coach at Duke.

Hill reopened his recruitment just 11 days after previously committing to FAMU. His commitment followed in the footsteps of Florida State teammate Demorie Tate who also transferred to FAMU last month. This season Hill played in 12 games and rushed for 190 yards on 50 carries and scored one touchdown. Before arriving at Florida State in 2022, he was a four-star prospect and nationally ranked as the No. 15 athlete according to ESPN.

Sapp entered the portal in early December and committed to FAMU 11 days ago to join Hill and Tate. Sapp doesn’t have any recorded stats during his time at Florida State, but before joining the Seminoles, he was a four-star lineman who was nationally ranked as the No. 12 offensive guard according to Rivals.

The departure of Simmons has led to Hill and Sapp reentering the transfer portal. Simmons led FAMU to its first Celebration Bowl and SWAC championship with a 12-1 record in 2023. He has established a winning culture for FAMU as they are 30-6 in their last three seasons. The Rattler football program is in good shape for whoever replaces Willie Simmons. Hopefully, the culture of the program can prevent a further exodus of talent with coach Simmons now gone.

The post Florida State transfers de-commit from FAMU after Simmons departure appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

When Willie Simmons took the helm of the Rattlers in 2018, he did it bringing in Rolle as his special assistant to the head coach and nickelbacks (defensive back) coach.  That was due to the reputation, knowledge, and accomplishment of Rolle.  A FAMU Sports Hall of Famer for his play on the field as a defensive back for coach Rudy Hubbard, Rolle has been a pillar in the FAMU fold.  His entire family is engulfed in the FAMUly.  Rolle is there in plain sight, but is not a flashy guy and often shies away from the spotlight.

Rolle has a historic legacy of coaching

Rolle has the distinction of being the only coach in Florida High School Football history to win state championships at three different high schools.  He did it in Miami, the hotbed of high school football talent.  His list of accomplishments (some listed at the end of this article) makes him one of the most decorated coaches around.

Billy Rolle was head coach of Miami Killian, Miami Southridge, and the juggernaut in Miami Northwestern High School.  He won two state championships at Northwestern with high school player of the year Jacory Harris and was ranked the USA Today No.1 school in the country.  He also coached Teddy Bridgewater and Amari Cooper during his time in Miami.  His familiarity with the current coaches in Miami has resulted in recruiting successes for FAMU.  Not only is FAMU getting more players out of Miami as high schoolers, they are also returning through the transfer portal because of the foundation of Rolle’s relationships.

In one of the most publicized high school games in ESPN history, Rolle took his USA Today No.2 ranked Northwestern team to face No.1 Southlake Carroll in Texas.  Rolle and the Bulls would defeat Southlake Carroll and earn the No.1 ranking in the entire country.  All correspondents equated the game to a small college game because of the wealth of talent on both teams.

Billy Rolle was Simmons’ right hand during his coaching tenure

When Simmons came to FAMU, he put a system in place.  He was not only building a great team but also setting in place a program that could achieve sustainable success at FAMU. We saw the sustained success under Willie Simmons.  The last thing FAMU needs right now is someone to come in and implement a new philosophy.  We’ve seen several of them over the last decade and we prefer Simmons’ system.

FAMU has a tremendous amount of momentum, even in Willie Simmons departure.  FAMU Alumni have shown that they want to continue winning.  Putting up over $125,000+ in less than 36 hours screams of a fanbase that is invested in the program.

Besides winning, which was important, probably Simmons’ biggest asset was his approachability. FAMUans loved Simmons’ accountability, accessibility, and respect for the FAMU history and culture.  He knew FAMU very well and it got folks excited.  Well, Rolle knows it even better and he is beloved by FAMU Alumni as well.  He is loved by the players and respected by his fellow coaches.  His demeanor is exactly what FAMU loves.

Rolle already fits into the FAMU culture

Most folks I have talked to since even the rumors of Willie Simmons leaving talked about how much they like Simmons.  Being a winner is one thing, but fitting in the culture is what makes folks cheer for, love, and spend their money to support.  It’s also the reason the Rattler nation has sent Simmons with best wishes on his journey.

I do not work at FAMU and haven’t since 2019, but since five years old, I have been on FAMU’s campus.  I can’t recall a home game I’ve missed since probably 1970.  I’ve seen folks come and go and have made relationships with many of them.  Several seasoned Rattlers have seen me grow up at FAMU from Roosevelt Wilson’s son to writing columns like him.

One thing my father always stressed to me, is always feel free to express your opinion, no matter if it hurts the feelings of others.  He would say my opinion, is my opinion.  Further, he always implored me to base my opinion on facts, not emotions. With 45 wins in five years, it is a fact that Simmons installed a great program at FAMU…a system of winning.  The facts point to Billy Rolle as the next FAMU head coach to come in and continue the system, while building his own legacy. 

A partial list of Rolle’s accomplishments as a coach:

Florida Dairy Farmers Florida Coach of the Year 2008
Florida State’s Coach of the Year 2008
National High School Football Coach of the Year by American Football  
Monthly, a publication associated with Schutt Sports. 2008
Louie Bing Scholarship Award (10th Annual) February 2007
Coached in the Team USA Football 2007
Head Coach Dade vs. Broward Nike All-Star Game 2007
FAMU Sports Hall of Fame 2003
Head Coach Dade vs. Broward All-Star Game 2001
Educator of the Year 2000 — Chosen by Zeta Phi Beta Sorority (Beta Tau Chapter)
NFL Miami Dolphins “Coach of the Year” (1998 & 2004)
Assistant Coach Georgia vs. Florida (All-Star Game 2000)
FAMU Distinguished Alumnus for Athletics 1999
Coached in the Nike All-Star Classic 1999
Coached in the North/South Shrine Game 1996
Coached in the Stan Marks All-Star Game 1996

The post Billy Rolle should be the next head coach at FAMU appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

“During yesterday’s emergency board meeting, the NAA shared that we needed to raise $25,000 to assist in football coaches’ compensation,” the account tweeted.

“Because of YOU, the FAMU NAA has raised an estimated $66,047.73 in 16.5 hours!”

UPDATE: AS of 12:11 PM on Dec. 31, the FAMU NAA account stated that better than $106k had been raised by the effort.

Simmons has been mulling the offer over the past few days, alerting the players and coaches of it. He has a 66-24 record as a head football coach, first at Prairie View A&M for three seasons while spending the last five seasons at Florida A&M. 

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While there is no information that Hunt entering the portal and Coach Simmons’ possible departure are connected, they both speak to possible winds of change blowing through the FAMU football program.

The 5-11, 290-pound Defensive Tackle from Gainesville HS originally committed to the University of South Florida before eventually signing with Florida A&M in 2020.

As a Sophomore in 2021, Hunt played in 10 games where he logged 27 total tackles (18 solo, 9 assisted,) eight tackles for loss (seven solo, two assisted,) five sacks, and a memorable 46-yard fumble recovery in the Florida Blue Florida Classic.

Since bursting on the scene in 2021, Gentle Hunt has been a rock on the interior of the FAMU defensive line, playing in every game during his three-year career as a Rattler.

In 2023, Hunt recorded 32 total tackles (18 solo, 14 assisted,) eleven tackles for loss (seven solo, two assisted,) five and a half sacks, and one forced fumble, earning him second-team all-SWAC honors.

Hunt announced his decision to enter the transfer portal on December, 28th via a post on social media where he asked fans to “please respect my decision.”

Only weeks removed from winning the SWAC championship and Celebration Bowl; FAMU finds itself in a familiar position, as head coach Willie Simmons received a position coach offer at the University of South Carolina last year and the Rattlers saw defensive lineman Kamari Stephens hit the transfer portal. Coach Simmons stayed in Tallahassee and the Rattlers went 12-1 en route to an HBCU national championship.

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Jackson posted the “dear football” message on December 27th alongside a picture of him as a child in his football uniform. The post reads as follows:

Dear Football,
I never got to formally say goodbye. My first love, you’ve been my everything since I was 7 years old and we went on 15 years strong. Until now a bittersweet moment where I had to say goodbye. Unfortunately you were taken away from me earlier than expected during my senior season. Game 2 vs Walsh suffered my 4th concussion in 3 years and had to medically retire. At that point in my life i was at my complete lowest point. I didn’t leave the room, I didn’t talk to nobody, I didn’t wanna see or touch a football ever again truthfully started to hate football. Something you put all your blood, sweat and tears in and then on top of that it’s your joy, your happiness, so therapeutic just beautiful taken away in just a snap. It took me awhile to forgive the game and forgive myself asking myself why me when I did everything right every single day. Then God reminded me of all the good that came from it. Football has taken me places I would never expect to be in life, surrounded me with people I called my friends that turned into family. The memories I made and trials and tribulations that I will forever cherish. Just wanna say thank you to ANYONE that came and is with me on this journey I truly do love you so much. Just happy to say I’m at peace with everything and excited for what the Lord has in store for me as I know it’s only gonna get even better.

Tyrell Jackson

Accompanying his goodbye message to the game was a series of photos of Tyrell throughout his football career, including a photo of him holding the Red Tails Classic trophy after Fort Valley’s 30-0 win over Tuskegee in 2021, and ending with a local news clip of him throwing a touchdown in his final game at Johnson C. Smith against Walsh College.

The Greenville, South Carolina product was expected to be the veteran leader under center for Coach Flowers and the Golden Bulls in 2023 as they went into the season with high hopes and expectations for the first winning season at Smith in over a decade. JCSU was able to exceed those expectations despite Jackson only playing in 2 games. The Golden Bulls finished the season with a 7-4 record and a trip to the inaugural Florida Beach Bowl.

We interviewed Tyrell Jackson back in the Spring of 2023 for our Brick x Brick docuseries where he talked about his career and landing at JCSU.

“It was never about going D1, it’s about going to the perfect place for you,” said Jackson in Part I of the docuseries.

In his 11 games at Fort Valley State, Tyrell Jackson threw for 2,301 yards and 17 touchdowns, at Johnson C. Smith, he played in seven games where he totaled 1,725 yards in the air and 11 passing touchdowns.

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Thomas replaces Fred McNair after he held that seat for nearly a decade.

“Alcorn State University’s commitment to our football program and student athletes is unwavering,” said Dr. Tracy M. Cook. “I am thrilled to appoint Cedric Thomas as our new head football coach. I believe he is uniquely positioned to continue our championship winning tradition. His passion for the game, approach to leadership of our student athletes, and his vision for the future will continue to strengthen our culture of excellence as a leader in the Southwestern Athletic Conference.”

Interim Director of Athletics Robert Raines is pleased with the appointment of Thomas. “We are grateful that Coach Cedric Thomas has agreed to be our new head football coach,” stated Raines. “Thomas brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the position. As an Alcorn alumnus, Coach Thomas is a familiar face to the program, having served two stints with the Braves. He aligns perfectly with our culture, has a great command of the program, rapport with our players, and is committed to sustaining a winning program centered on strong academics, community outreach, and high character student athletes.”

Coach Thomas shared his thoughts on being selected for this new role at the university. “I am extremely humbled, thankful, and honored for this opportunity to lead the Alcorn State University Braves as the new head football coach,” said Thomas. “I want to continue to build on the foundation that was laid before me by so many legendary coaches, players, and staff. We will continue to make the University and alumni base proud of our championship culture.”

A seasoned leader, Coach Thomas rejoined the Alcorn State football staff in March of 2022 as the defensive coordinator. The Cleveland, Mississippi native takes the reigns of the program after a prior stint as the defensive back coach from 2012-2015 and the defensive coordinator in 2016 and 2017.

During his eight seasons with the Braves, Alcorn won four straight SWAC Eastern Division titles, including back-to-back SWAC titles in 2014 and 2015, and participated in the inaugural Celebration Bowl.

Before returning to Alcorn, Thomas spent the 2021 season as the head football coach of his junior college alma mater Mississippi Delta Community College. He led the Trojans to a 5-4 season with three student athletes receiving Mississippi Association of Community Colleges Conference All-Conference awards.

Thomas spent the 2020 season as the defensive back coach at the University of Southern Mississippi after a two-year stint as the head football coach at the University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff, his undergraduate alma mater.

During his two years in Pine Bluff, Thomas helped lead the Golden Lions to a four-win improvement, as UAPB tripled their win total from two wins to six wins from 2018 to 2019. He coached 14 All-Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) honorees, including nine first-team selections.

Thomas served as the running backs coach at the University of Tennessee-Martin in 2002 before coming to MDCC in 2003, where he also spent the 2004 season. After a two-year term at Itawamba Community College in 2005 and 2006, he returned to MDCC for the 2007-2011 seasons.

The former MDCC and UAPB standout earned an Associate of Arts degree from MDCC in 1998, a bachelor’s degree in recreation in 2001 from UAPB, and a master’s degree in administration from Alcorn State University in 2015.

The former East Side High School graduate is married to Kelunda, and the couple has one daughter, Loegan. Thomas also has a son, Cedric Jr.

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Alcorn State University announced on Tuesday that McNair is no longer the head coach of its program. It released the following statement at noon, CST. 

“I would like to thank Coach Fred McNair for his many years of service and dedication to Alcorn State University. We worked diligently to extend Coach McNair a multi-year contract which would have placed him in the top tier of the conference with both compensation, incentives, and additional incentives for assistant coaches,” said Robert Raines, interim director of intercollegiate athletics. “Unfortunately, we could not reach a mutual agreement.”

Coach McNair led the Alcorn State Braves for seven seasons and coached the team to four SWAC East Division titles and a pair of SWAC Championships. McNair holds a 38-17 SWAC record (.691 winning percentage) on the Alcon State sidelines while posting an overall record of 48-34 (.585). Last season, the Braves posted a 7-4 overall and 6-2 SWAC record.

The Alcorn State University family deeply appreciates Coach McNair for his exceptional leadership to the University’s student-athletes and his commitment to excellence on the field, in the classroom, and community. The University is especially appreciative of his unique legacy as a player and a coach in elevating not only the football program but also the University. The University wishes Coach McNair well in his future endeavors.

McNair has been reported as the likely head coaching candidate at Texas Southern University. TSU is looking for a new head coach after parting ways with Clarence McKinney last month. 

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It did, however, have higher rankings than ESPN games featuring Power Five programs like Cal and Texas Tech. The game also went up against NFL competition and Celebration Bowl Executive Director told HBCU Gameday that the bowl game was simulcast for the first time.

“It was on ABC. We simulcast it on ESPN Plus and we simulcast it on our Hispanic network,” Grant said. “It was the first year that we’ve ever done that. That an added value – in Spanish. So that helps us reach another audience with that game.”

The game itself was a thriller, as Florida A&M came back from a double-digit first quarter deficit to take the lead in the fourth quarter before having to rally again after Howard University’s defensive touchdown. It would go on to win the game 30-26.

Celebration Bowl ratings history

Saturday’s Celebration Bowl was the eighth in the history of the game between the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) and Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC). The 2022 game featuring Deion Sanders and Jackson State against North Carolina Central had a rating of 1.42 and drew an average viewership of 2.42 million on ABC, according to Showbuzz Daily.

For comparison, the 2021 Celebration Bowl received a 1.61 rating and had 2.59 million viewers, the second most in the game’s history. The 2019 Celebration Bowl received a 1.23 rating with 1.8 million viewers as North Carolina A&T and Alcorn State got into a shootout. The 2018 game between North Carolina A&T and Alcorn State held a 1.61 rating but had a smaller viewership number with 2.35 million viewers.

The 2017 game between North Carolina A&T and Grambling had a 1.59 rating with 2.36 million viewers. The 2016 Celebration Bowl between Grambling State and North Carolina Central had a rating of 1.83 with 2.71 million viewers – the most in the game’s history. The inaugural game between North Carolina A&T and Alcorn State remains the high mark in terms of ratings with 1.89 as 2.5 million people watched the inaugural game.

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Meadows transferred to Tennessee State after spending two years at the University of Tennessee. He played in one game and became a redshirt during his freshman year in 2022. This past season was more of the same as he only appeared in one game for the Volunteers. Meadows joined Tennessee as preferred walk-on in 2022.

Meadows will help fill in the holes in Tennessee State’s offensive line after the departure of offensive linemen Darrell Branch and Romeo Watson. Branch entered the transfer portal and is looking for a new school. Watson announced that he is transferring to the University of New Mexico.

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North Carolina A&T has signed former Houston Christian quarterback Justin Fomby and Boston College defensive end Josh Hardy. 

Fomby, a graduate transfer, spent two years at Houston Christian University and entered the portal last month after spending the season as the backup quarterback despite being the starter last year. In 2022, he threw for 2,297 yards and 16 touchdowns to earn a spot as the third most passing yards in school history. 

This is the second time Fomby has entered the transfer portal. Before arriving at Houston Christian, he spent three years at Northern Iowa. Fomby committed to Northern Iowa in 2019 as a three-star quarterback from Lawrenceville, Georgia. He did not have many opportunities to see the field during his time at Northern Iowa.

Landing Fomby is key for the Aggies since quarterbacks Eli Brickhandler, Zach Yeager and Alston Hooker have entered the transfer portal.

Hardy arrives at North Carolina A&T after playing two seasons at Boston College. He redshirted his freshman season in 2022 and saw little playing time this season. In 2022, he committed to Boston College as a three-star defensive from Bowie, Maryland.

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GRAMBLING, La. | Grambling State University has named Mickey Joseph as the 15th head football coach, announced by Vice-President and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Dr. Trayvean Scott on Monday morning.

Jospeh brings a wealth of coaching experience spanning three decades to Grambling. His most recent stop was at the University of Nebraska, his alma mater, where he served as associate head coach, wide receivers coach, and passing game coordinator during the 2022 season. He completed the 2022 campaign as interim head coach for the Cornhuskers.

Prior to NU, he spent five seasons on staff at LSU. In 2017, he joined the Tigers as wide receivers coach. He was elevated to associate head coach in 2020. Joseph was a key member of LSU’s 2019 national championship staff. His receivers set an FBS record with 60 touchdown receptions and helping Joe Burrow claim a Heisman Trophy amassing 5,671 passing yards.

In 2019, LSU assembled the best group of receivers in SEC history. The Tigers’ three starters–Ja’Marr Chase, Justin Jefferson and Terrace Marshall–combined for 241 receptions for 3,991 yards and 51 touchdowns.

His reputation for recruiting and developing wide receivers was highlighted at LSU when he was recognized as a Rivals Top 25 recruiter, and had four wide receivers selected in the first three rounds of the 2020 and 2021 NFL Drafts (2020 and 2021). That includes Chase, who was the 2021 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year after being selected with the No. 5 overall pick in the 2021 Draft and Jefferson, the 22nd pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.

The Marrero, La. native was part of an offensive staff that helped LSU set several SEC records in 2019, including passing yards (6,024), passing TDs (61) and total offense per game (568.4) en route to a 15-0 season and national championship. Joseph also helped LSU post a 10-3 record in 2018 and a 9-4 mark in 2017.

In 2016, Mickey Joseph worked as running backs coach at neighboring Louisiana Tech. He helped the Bulldogs to a 9-5 record and win in the Armed Forces Bowl. The Bulldogs ranked No. 2 in the nation in scoring in 2016, averaging 44.3 points per game. Tech averaged 514.9 total yards game, which included 363.4 passing and 151.6 on the ground.

Mickey Joseph is no stranger to Grambling State. From 2014 to 2015 he served as wide receivers coach and special teams coach for the G-Men. When he arrived at Grambling, the Tigers were coming off a 1-10 record in 2013. In the two years he spent with the G-Men, Grambling finished 7-5 (2014) and 9-3 with a SWAC West Championship in 2015. 

In 2015, Joseph’s receivers totaled 2,250 receiving yards and 25 touchdowns as Grambling’s scoring offense ranked fourth and passing offense ranked 21st among all FCS programs nationally.

Prior to Grambling, he was the special teams coordinator and wide receivers coach at Alcorn State in 2013, helping the school to a 9-3 record, its most wins in 30 years.

He spent five seasons at Langston University from 2008 to 2012, elevating to head coach in 2011. He led the Lions to 13-7 record in two seasons.

Mickey Joseph got his first collegiate coaching job at Wayne State College in Nebraska in 1997, which he followed with a season at his high school alma mater Archbishop Shaw High School in New Orleans in 1998. From there, Joseph served as a graduate assistant at Tulane in 1999 and then coached receivers at Alabama State in 2000.
He coached quarterbacks at Nicholls State for three years (2001-03) and then spent two seasons as the running backs coach at Central Oklahoma (2004-05).

Before his tenure at Langston, Joseph served as the head football coach and Director of Athletics for Desire Street Academy, a private school in the New Orleans’ Ninth Ward area. His main goal was to help get young kids out of the underprivileged area to improve their overall quality of life through sports. At the time of Hurricane Katrina, Joseph was responsible of moving the private school to Florida along with relocating the student- athletes. That year, the team had a record of 1-3, however, in 2008 Joseph turned the team around to a 10-3 record. Seven out of 25 players were able to sign with NCAA Division I programs.

During the summer of 2012 he also spent time with Houston Texans as part of an NFL minority internship. While in Houston, Joseph worked with the running backs and all aspects of the special teams units.

Joseph played quarterback at Nebraska from 1988-91. As a junior Joseph led the Cornhuskers to a 9-3 overall mark after accounting for 21 touchdowns (11 rushing, 10 passing). In his four years at Nebraska, the Cornhuskers posted a 39-9-1 overall mark and appeared in the Orange Bowl twice, the Citrus Bowl and the Fiesta Bowl.
In four years with the Cornhuskers, Joseph played in 34 regular season games and accounted for 30 touchdowns (16 rushing, 14 passing). His best season came as a junior in 1990 when he played in all 12 games, throwing for 624 yards and 11 touchdowns to go along with 554 rushing yards and 10 TDs.

Joseph was the top recruit coming out of Archbishop Shaw High School in Marrero when he was recruited to the University of Nebraska. In 1987, he was awarded Gatorade Player of the Year and First-Team Parade All-American. The standout football player was also a two-time All-State MVP and three-time All-District MVP.

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OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame named Howard University senior defensive back Kenny Gallop, Jr. (Portsmouth, Va.) its recipient for the 2023 Aeneas Williams Award. The announcement came Friday afternoon.

The award is given to the top defensive back in HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) Division I college football based on performance on the field, athletic ability, and character.

Earlier this week, Gallop was named a finalist for the prestigious award, along with earning All-American honors from BOXTOROW and FCS Football Central.

In 11 contests, the Buck Buchanan Award finalist produced 65 total tackles (42 solos) with six tackles for loss, three interceptions, two forced fumbles, and two quarterback hurries. In the homecoming victory over Norfolk State (Oct. 21), Gallop recorded a season-high 11 total tackles and the game-clinching interception. For his efforts, he was named FCS National Defensive Player of the Week.

The Virginia product led Howard’s secondary where they topped the country in pass defense, allowing only 129.1 yards per game in the air.

Kenny Gallop took home the award over Morgan State senior Jordan Tole and Alabama State senior Mychal Victor.

The award recipient was selected from the three finalists by a nationwide selection committee, boasting selective members of the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame, former Aeneas Williams Award recipients, HBCU sportswriters and HBCU college football journalists throughout the country.

The official presentation of the Aeneas Williams Award takes place in Oklahoma City on Feb. 6, 2024, in conjunction with this year’s Paycom Jim Thorpe Award Winner, Trey Taylor of Air Force. The current winner and all former winners of each award are invited each year to celebrate. Over 600 supporters attend the Paycom Jim Thorpe Award Banquet each year, including many celebrities and dignitaries.

On Dec. 16, Howard University played its final game of the 2023 campaign at the Cricket Celebration Bowl in Atlanta where they will face the Southwestern Athletic Conference Champion No. 5 Florida A&M. Kickoff is scheduled for noon on ABC.

For more information, visit the Bison Athletics website at www.HUBison.com or the Aeneas Williams Award website at www.oklahomasportshalloffame.org.

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FAMU, a program built to conquer adversity, once trailed 16-10 at halftime and went scoreless in the third quarter. However, it beat Howard University 30-26 to finish the season 12-1, due in part to Jeremy Moussa’s explosive three second-half touchdown passes that included two to Rattlers running back Kelvin Dean.

With Howard (6-6) needing a touchdown to win this year’s Celebration Bowl, Major witnessed a similar tale before this season. In September, the Rattlers’ linebacker delivered a 40-yard pick-six against Alabama State quarterback Damon Stewart, giving the FAMU a 23-10 victory at Bragg Memorial Stadium.

On Saturday, with 1:50 to play in regulation, the SWAC Defensive Player of the Year trusted his intuition to jump Howard quarterback Quinton Williams’ bubble-screen pass in the flat to running back Jarret Hunter. The result for the former Independence Community College standout was the biggest play of the game that “God” allowed him to capture along with a HBCU national title for the Rattlers.

“I knew he [Williams] was going to throw it, so I came back to it,” Major said after Saturday’s Celebration Bowl. “When it comes to screens, draws, quick outs… they [Bison offense] trying to move the ball fast. I went with my hunch and just made a play on the ball and God allowed me to come up with the interception.”

Major, who registered six tackles, one tackle for loss and the lone interception in Saturday’s win, finished the regular season with 100 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, a fumble recovery and a game-sealing interception against Howard. He also led FAMU in tackles (83) and tackles for loss (13.5) in the ’22 campaign.

Despite the hardship of trailing 14-0 in the first stanza and after two quarters, Majors never wavered in himself nor his teammates. All season, skeptics deemed FAMU a second half team other than its 28-10 win against Jackson State in the Orange Blossom Classic during Labor Day weekend.

In addition to slow starts and failing to win games in dominant fashion for majority of the season, Willie Simmons canceled football activities in July when a two-minute rap video consisting of explicit lyrics of Boston Richey’s song “Send A Blitz” was filmed in the Rattlers’ locker room.

Five months later, it doesn’t seem to matter as much.

“We had to handle adversity from day one in fall camp,” Major said. “We put in 28 [points at Jackson State] in the first half but the second half wasn’t our best. We’ve had lows in the season where we’ve had to fight back and make things happen.

“It was pretty easy… for us to get back to Rattler football [on Saturday] and get back to who we are.”

As Major hung the final curtain on his FAMU career, it was always about the Rattlers winning a title. He was never concerned solely about himself. “I don’t pray to be the best player on the field, I just pray for a win,” he says. Major’s selfless mindset was partially built based on his relationship with former FAMU standout and NFL’s Cowboys’ safety Markquese Bell, who played in the same JUCO conference as he did.

But no one is more critical to Major’s growth as a man than his mom, LaTrisha, who he considers his “biggest supporter and hero.” The 6’0”, 200-pound linebacker keeps a picture of her, one of his deceased best friends who died on New Year’s day and his grandparents in a Bible that his grandfather gave him when he died in ’17.

“She’s the definition of a soldier and why I am where I am in life,” Major said.

With a Celebration Bowl and national championship in a city that he never played in prior to Saturday’s clash of the MEAC-SWAC titans, Major is making his mom proud and living a dream.

“I’m at a loss for words,” Major said. “It’s my first time ever winning a national championship in my life. … It really don’t feel real at all…to walk away with something so precious is a blessing.”

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Jeremy Moussa threw for 289 yards and three touchdowns to rally FAMU past Howard to win their first Celebration Bowl. Kelvin Dean caught two of those touchdowns for 87 receiving yards. Terrell Jennings also added a touchdown with 68 yards rushing.

Despite a slow start, FAMU stepped up in the second half to contain Howard on both sides of the ball. The momentum shifted towards Howard early as Ian Wheeler opened the game with a 55-yard kickoff return. The Bison offense drove the ball down the field and scored on their drive with an eight yard touchdown run by Jarett Hunter. After a FAMU fumble, Howard jumped to 14-0 lead after a three yard touchdown run by Kasey Hawthorne.

Early into the second quarter, FAMU finally puts points on the board with a three yard touchdown run by Terrell Jennings to bring the score to 14-7.

Both teams struggled at the end of the half as Moussa was sacked in the endzone for a safety. The offenses slowed down as both teams traded interceptions before Cameron Gilis kicked a 41-yard field goal to bring the score to 16-10.

After two long drives by both teams in the third quarter, FAMU took a 17-16 lead in the fourth quarter as Moussa tossed a 21-yard touchdown pass to Kelvin Dean. The next possession, Moussa threw another touchdown to Dean for 53 yards to bring the Rattlers in front 24-16.’

Just when the game was going in favor of FAMU, Christian Hinton intercepted Moussa for a 27-yard pick six to bring Howard back on top 26-24.

On the next drive, FAMU responded with a four play drive capped off with a 38-yard touchdown pass from Moussa to Sheread to take a 30-24 lead. FAMU sealed the victory by intercepting Howard on their last two possessions.

Florida A&M has won their first Celebration Bowl after winning their first SWAC title in their third year in the conference. This is the first time the SWAC has won the Celebration Bowl since Grambling State defeated North Carolina Central in 2016.

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The Florida Beach Bowl is a historic moment for the CIAA and SIAC to establish a bowl game at the Division II level since the now defunct Pioneer Bowl. Fort Valley State coach Shawn Gibbs and Johnson C. Smith coach Maurice Flowers spoke about the matchup and the significance of the bowl game and how it will impact both conferences.

“We are excited to be here, this is a tremendous opportunity for our university. The exposure that we’re gonna be able to get from this is limitless. We also have the opportunity to serve as an inspiration to some of the kids in the community. To show them that they have an opportunity to play in a bowl game at a HBCU, specifically at a Division II,” Gibbs said at the Florida Beach Bowl press conference.

“Not many opportunities are provided to Division II institutions to play in a bowl game. What recruits need to realize is something that we’re doing right now. We’re one of four HBCUs that’s still playing football. Everybody else is at home watching this game and then the game this weekend. The exposure and the opportunity to get in front of these kids and play. Then we can explain to them how many eyes are on us and then that can help us and then that can help us acquire the resources so that we can continue to build,”

There are a few opportunities to play in bowl games for Division II schools, especially HBCUs. The American Crossroads Bowl, Heritage Bowl (not to be confused with the Heritage Bowl in the 1990’s played by the MEAC AND SWAC) and the Farmers Bank & Trust Live United Bowl are the other sanctioned Division II bowl games. Those bowl games feature schools from conferences without HBCUs. 

The Florida Beach Bowl allows HBCUs in the CIAA and SIAC to compete in the postseason in a bowl game rather than the playoffs. The game follows the footsteps of the Celebration Bowl, which will feature the other HBCU matchup between FAMU and Howard in Atlanta, Georgia.

“This is a great thing, it’s the Division II version of the Celebration Bowl, the SWAC versus the MEAC. Well this is our version of that, the CIAA versus the SIAC,” Gibbs said.

“It’s something that is so big for the young men because not everyone goes to the playoffs. You look at the Celebration Bowl and what it does. That’s a better alternative than the playoffs. This here is a better alternative than the playoffs,” Flowers said. “If you look at both conferences, the SIAC and the CIAA, the SIAC Champion, wonderful year but look at the last two that are right now playing is a CIAA school and a SIAC school and we’re looking forward to this matchup. This bowl is gonna be the last one that a Division II team is playing, so it just has so many eyes and the experience is just gonna to help with recruiting for both schools and there’s no negatives at all,”

Both conferences were full of great teams but Fort Valley State and Johnson C Smith was chosen to participate in the inaugural game. With both teams posting a 7-3 record, they have the potential to produce an exciting game to rival the Celebration Bowl.

Both teams will battle to become the first Florida Beach Bowl champion on Wednesday, December 13th at 7:30 PM at DRV PNK Stadium.

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“South Carolina State. You’re talking about – to me, that’s the blue blood of college football, HBCU football,” Berry said. “I am HBCU. I’ve been on an HBCU campus since 1991. As a player and as a coach…I’ve been on an HBCU campus for the last 32 years of my life. I’ve been on an HBCU campus and I look at South Carolina State as the top of all top dogs.”

Berry, of course, inherits a program that has been an NFL factory for as long as he’s been alive. He says that he will look to recruit within a four-to-five state radius, but South Carolina will be the home base. 

“This state of South Carolina has been amazing to the program I’m leaving from and I felt like it was a good time to be able to come in for South Carolina State,” Berry said. “You talked about players. I mean, I know that we won’t be short for talent in this state and there’s some talent on this football team already, and it’s my job to come and put my stamp on it.”

Berry inherited a 1-9 Benedict team when he took the job in February 2020. The team went 5-5 in his first season with back-to-back 11-0 regular seasons. He says he feels SC State has the tools to win quickly. 

“It be cultivated because we can win. And I’m talking about winning now, not talking about winning. I’m talking about winning immediately and I feel like we can do that with the roster. And I got a chance to examine looking at the guys that we already have coming on this football team. We have a chance to be special. We have a chance to be special right away.

Chennis Berry was asked about the transfer portal, and he talked about retaining the players on the team. 

“My job and our coaching staff’s job is to make sure that the experience that the young men have while they’re here is so rewarding that they don’t want to leave. Because ultimately they’re going to throw – these different higher level schools – are going to throw these opportunities, and most of the time is financial opportunities that these young men and they get excited about,” Berry said.

“While they’re here, we’re going to take care of love, treat them right and try to provide the type of environment that they want to stay here at South Carolina State University, because at the end of the day, you have to you have to understand that. That’s the real deal.”

Berry says some players will be leaving Benedict College and coming to Orangeburg with him. 

“We won 22 games in two years,” Berry told the media. “So I’d be crazy not to bring some of those guys with me. So absolutely attitude and gratitude for those guys as well.”

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A week after former Jackson State Offensive lineman Amari Ward announced he was still committed to Colorado, a member of the coaching staff shut that down.

Colorado football assistant Andrew Zimmer posted the following in response to a post about Ward coming to CU.

“Amari Ward is not coming to CU as a recruit,” Zimmer tweeted. “No one on our staff has talked to him. In fact, this is the second year he has posted a fake offer from us.”

Ward claimed he was offered by Colorado in the spring and tried to transfer to Colorado prior to the 2023 season but was denied admission to the school.  That was later overturned, but he wasn’t able to suit up in 2023. 

“I explained to them the situation of what was going on and the committee said they didn’t know that,” Ward recapped. “At the time that I got denied, I didn’t know what I was going to do. I thought, ‘I guess that’s it.’ But after talking to a few people, they said, ‘Don’t give up that easily.’ So I reached back out to them to see why I didn’t get accepted.”

Ward reported he had been working out in hopes of making an impact on Colorado in 2024. 

“I am going to work out and get my body in top tier shape and be in the best condition I’ve ever been in so far in my life,” Ward pledged. “When I get to Colorado, I want to be in a position to be able to make an impact right away, on and off the field. Ain’t nothing going to change my mind. I’m locked in, ready to go.”

Several players (and coaches) from Jackson State actually followed Sanders to Colorado: Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter being the most notable, but also players like Sy’Veon Wilkerson and others, as well as Shilo Sanders.

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Saturday afternoon’s contest between Florida A&M and Howard is the latest chance for each side to show what they can do and represent their respective conferences.

Here are some of the numbers that stand out.

Florida A&M (11-1 Overall, 9-0 in SWAC)

The Rattlers went through the entire SWAC season without a loss. Their offense has been dynamic all year. Florida A&M scores an average of 30.7 points per contest, including reaching the end zone an average of 4.0 times per game. The Rattlers’ defense has been formidable. They only concede an average of 14.3 points a game.

Terrell Jennings gears up after an impressive performance in Florida A&M’s last game. Jennings rushed for 113 yards and two touchdowns in the team’s win.

Florida A&M has a committee rushing offense. No one player accounts for more than 27% of its rush attempts.

The Rattlers’ record sits at 3-0 for their last three games, scoring over 20 points in each of those matchups. They’ve had good luck at neutral sites this season, as their current neutral site record sits at 2-0. Florida A&M is looking to remain undefeated in FCS HBCU games this year, as they’re currently 9-0 in DI HBCU match ups.

Howard (6-5 Overall, 4-1 in MEAC)

The Bison come into the game representing the MEAC, which leads the Celebration Bowl 6-1 over the SWAC since the game’s inception in 2015. So far this year, their offense has been formidable. Howard averages 28.7 points per contest and reaches the end zone an average of 3.8 times per game. Their defense has allowed an average of 23.2 points per game this season.

Quarterback Quinton Williams will be leading Howard in this one. Williams has averaged 196.2 pass yards per game with season totals of 16 touchdowns and four interceptions thus far this season.

Howard’s offense places a significant focus on the ground game. On the season it has a 56-44 rush-pass play selection split.

The Bison’s record sits at 2-1 for their last three games, averaging 29.3 points per game over that span. They are looking for their first neutral site win this season, as they are currently 0-1 at neutral sites. Howard is 4-2 in FCS HBCU games, averaging 27.7 points per game in those games.

Gameday AI content is produced using Artificial Intelligence technology powered by Boost Sport before being approved and published by HBCU Gameday.

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“The search committee is currently working very diligently to assist in determining the next leader for our G-Men,” said Dr. Scott. “This committee has been hard at work vetting the candidates and we are confident that we will find the right person the guide our program in the coming days. Here at Grambling State the bar is high, and it’s our responsibility to meet and exceed every expectation set forth by our alumni, fans and supporters.”

The Grambling State University Head Football Coach Search Committee is made up of the following members:

• Dr. Bobby Burkes, Faculty Athletic Representative 
• Myles Crawley, GSU Football Student-Athlete/Offensive Representative
• Javon Carter, GSU Football Student-Athlete/Defensive Representative 
• Coach Nakeya Hall, Head Softball Coach
• Edwin Mason, Alumni Representative
• Dr. Rudolph Ellis, Vice President for Student Affairs
• Randy Hymes, Football Alumni Representative

Special Advisors to the Committee:

• Doug Williams
• James “Shack” Harris 

Information regarding the Grambling State University vacancy can be found on https://therscfirm.com/head-football-coach-grambling-state-university/

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Texas Southern has interviewed Brett Maxie and Mickey Joseph for its openings, per HBCU Legends citing TSU VP of Athletics Dr. Kevin Granger as its source. Other names have been floated around such as Alcorn State’s Fred McNair and former North Carolina Central head coach and current Tennessee assistant coach Jerry Mack Sr. A source tells HBCU Gameday that Mack is not in the running for the job at this time. 

Southern University is looking for a coach for the second time in as many years after parting ways with Eric Dooley. One coach with interest in all three SWAC jobs told HBCU Gameday he felt Southern might be the most likely program in the SWAC with an opening to be able to win quickly. And, clearly, that is the expectation.

Grambling State University is looking for a replacement for Hue Jackson after letting him go late last month. Director of Athletics Dr. Trayvean Scott outlined a 7-10 day window to find Jackson’s replacement – but that was last Tuesday. HBCU Gameday has learned that Renaissance Search And Consulting – the same firm that South Carolina State used to process its search – will be handling the Grambling State search as well. 

Of course, the most immediate HBCU football job impacted by Berry’s move is the one he left. Benedict will be looking to replace a coach who led it to 27-7 record in three seasons, winning back-to-back SIAC titles – the first in school history – and leading it to the Division II playoffs twice. Those are big shoes to fill, but Berry has upped the profile of Benedict as well as his own with his success. 

Literally across the street at Allen University, the fledgling Division II HBCU has some big shoes to fill as well. The program is looking for a replacement for Teddy Keaton, who took the program from a concept to a 7-3 season in five years. He’s now taken his talents to Clark Atlanta to help try to turn that program into a winner for the first time in more than 30 years.

Staying in the SIAC, Morehouse College is looking for a replacement for Gerard Wilcher who was let go after one season at his alma mater. No candidates have been identified yet for that position as of yet.

Finally, St. Augustine’s University is looking for a new head coach after letting Howard Feggins go during the football season. It is also looking for a new president – so it might be a while.

Stay tuned to HBCU Gameday for updates on these coaching searches and any others that may open up. 

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Sources told HBCU Gameday that Berry was offered the position last week.

Berry would be the successor to Buddy Pough, who has retired from coaching after 22 years as the head coach at South Carolina State. Pough has won a school-record 151 games, including eight MEAC titles and the 2021 Celebration Bowl and Black College National title. 

Multiple sources indicate Berry was a candidate for Southern University and Texas Southern jobs.

The former Savannah State offensive lineman took over as Benedict College head in 2020 and led the team to 5-5 record during his first season. His teams went on to win back-to-back SIAC titles over the past two seasons, going 10-0 in each regular season and winning the SIAC title game. He is 27-7 as a head coach in three seasons. Berry has been named regional coach of the year by the American Football Coaches Association for the second year in a row on Tuesday.

Pough has served as head coach at South Carolina State University since 2002. He succeeded Willie Jeffries, who coached SC State from 1989 through 2001 in his second stint at the school. 

Chennis Berry is no stranger to the MEAC. He previously served as co-offensive coordinator and offensive line coach a Howard University. He also coached the offensive line at North Carolina A&T twice, including a stint as offensive coordinator in 2009 and 2010. In between his stints in Greensboro he spent a few seasons as offensive coordinator at Morgan State.

The SC State search process was done by Renaissance Search and Consulting.

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Deion Sanders made the announcement on Tuesday during a Zoom meeting with members of the media.

“This guy is one of the smartest guys on the staff.  He just needed opportunity and guess what happened? He got opportunity. Vincent Dancy  is going to be a coordinator one day somewhere and then consequently a head coach. One of the most intelligent coaches and can recruit and when he talks to the team, when I put him up in front of the team you could tell he was a head coach. He demands attention he wasn’t stuttering or stumbling. He has it,” Sanders said.

Dancy drew the praise and admiration of Sanders when they coached against one another in the Southwestern Athletic Conference when Coach Prime coached at Jackson State.  Dancy spoke last year about why he left his head coaching position to join the Colorado staff with Deion Sanders.

“We developed a relationship that was that’s just pure genuine,” Dancy said. “He accepted me. I accepted him. He took me under his wing to teach me and helped me grow in my profession, and meet people that I probably would have never met before. He’s a man of his word.”

The position became open after the departure of Nick Williams, who coached the defensive ends in the 2023 season.  Williams left his post at Colorado to join the staff at Syracuse.

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Simpkins’ transfer portal announcement came around the same time that North Carolina Central football defensive back Jason Chambers announced he would also be entering the transfer portal.  Chambers picked off three passes in his sophomore season, while recording 41 total tackles and a fumble recovery.

Edge rusher Kendrick Dujour announced earlier this week that he would be hitting the transfer portal as well. He registered 4.5 sacks in nine games with eight of his 20 tackles going for loss. 

These players will have to be replaced in addition to quarterback Davius Richard and running back Latrell Collier, who have both exhausted their eligibility. 

NC Central head coach Trei Oliver has said in the past that his philosophy is to build his program with young, high school talent instead of through the transfer portal. While that has worked out great so far, replacing the talent leaving Durham won’t be an easy task as the transfer portal is definitely pulling players out of its pool.

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TALLAHASSEE, Fla. —— Florida A&M (FAMU) football’s head coach, Willie Simmons, has led the Rattlers to their best season since 1998, winning 11 games, a conference championship, and its first Celebration Bowl appearance next week. Simmons and the Rattlers’ success has led to Simmons being named the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) FCS Region 3 Coach of the Year for the second straight season.

 
Under the leadership of Willie Simmons this season, the Rattlers finished the regular season with their highest national ranking and first 11-win season since 1998. Also, the Rattlers possess one of the best defenses in the nation, currently ranking in the top 25 in 12 categories. 
 
Defensive Rankings
• 24th – turnovers gained
• 12th – passing yards allowed
• 11th – passes intercepted
• 10th – red zone defense
• 6th – rushing defense
• 6th – sacks
• 4th – defensive touchdowns
• 2nd – pass efficiency defense
• 2nd – scoring defense
• 2nd – 3rd down defense
• 2nd – total defense
• 1st – tackles for loss
 
FAMU also ranked top-30 in other statistical categories, including first down defense (29th), kick return defense (27th), time of possession (24th), first down offense (22nd), passing yards per completion (21st), sacks allowed (18th), and punt returns (17th).
 
The Rattlers continued to make history this season after going 8-0 in the SWAC and winning their first SWAC Championship, defeating Prairie View A&M 35-14. Since joining the SWAC, they have possessed the best regular season conference record with a 22-2 record in three seasons. The Rattlers also possess the nation’s longest home game-winning streak (20 games), the second-longest winning streak (10 games), and conference game-winning streak (16 games).

 
2023 AFCA Regional Coach of the Year Winners
 
Football Bowl Subdivision
Region 1: Mike Norvell, Florida State University
Region 2: Eliah Drinkwitz, University of Missouri
Region 3: David Braun, Northwestern University
Region 4: Jerry Kill, New Mexico State University
Region 5: Kalen DeBoer, University of Washington
 
Football Championship Subdivision
Region 1: Greg Gattuso, University at Albany
Region 2: Clay Hendrix, Furman University
Region 3: *Willie Simmons, Florida A&M University
Region 4: Todd Stepsis, Drake University
Region 5: Bobby Hauck, University of Montana
 
Division II 
Region 1: Jim Clements, Kutztown University 
Region 2: *Chennis Berry, Benedict College
Region 3: Josh Lamberson, University of Central Missouri
Region 4: Paul Simmons, Harding University
Region 5: Pete Sterbick, Colorado School of Mines
 
Division III
Region 1: Curt Fitzpatrick, SUNY Cortland
Region 2: Greg Chimera, Johns Hopkins University
Region 3: Jerheme Urban, Trinity (Tex.) University
Region 4: *Jason Couch, Alma College
Region 5: Chris Winter, Wartburg College
 
NAIA
Region 1: Doug Socha, Keiser University
Region 2: Mike Feminis, Saint Xavier University
Region 3: Chuck Hepola, Evangel University
Region 4: *Matt McCarty, Northwestern College
Region 5: Drew Maddox, Louisiana Christian University
*-2022 winner

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WACO, Texas — Benedict College head football coach Chennis Berry has been named Region 2 Coach of the Year for the second year in a row, the American Football Coaches Association announced today.

The AFCA recognizes five regional Coach of the Year winners in each of the Association’s five divisions: Football Bowl Subdivision, Football Championship Subdivision, Division II, Division III, and NAIA. The winners are selected by Active members of the Association who vote for coaches in their respective regions and divisions.

These winners will be honored on Tuesday, January 9, during the 2024 AFCA Convention in Nashville, Tennessee.

Chennis Berry guided the Tigers to their second consecutive undefeated regular season, SIAC Championship, NCAA playoff berth, and No. 1 seeding in Super Region 2.

The Tigers rank No. 1 in the nation in scoring defense, allowing opponents just 10.7 points per game during the 2023 season. Benedict also ranks first in team sacks and second in tackles for loss and passing yards allowed. Offensively, the Tigers ranked 15^th in scoring offense (39.8 points per game) and 26^th in total offense.

Super Region 2 includes all members of the SIAC, Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA), Gulf South Conference (GSC), and South Atlantic Conference (SAC).

AFCA National Coach of the Year: The AFCA will announce the 2023 National Coaches of the Year winners in FBS, FCS, Division II, Division III and NAIA on Tuesday, January 9th. The Regional winners in each division are finalists for National Coach of the Year.

Division II
Region 1: Jim Clements, Kutztown University
Region 2: *Chennis Berry, Benedict College
Region 3: Josh Lamberson, University of Central Missouri
Region 4: Paul Simmons, Harding University
Region 5: Pete Sterbick, Colorado School of Mines
*-2022 winner

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“Congratulations to both Davius and Kenny on being named the Offensive and Defensive Players of the Year,” MEAC Commissioner Sonja Stills said. “These talented student-athletes have earned every accolade they receive and are fine representatives of North Carolina Central University, Howard University, and the MEAC Nation. I’m proud to bestow the Player of the Year honors to Davius and Kenny for their on-field success.”

Richard (QB, Sr., 6-3, 215, Belle Glade, Fla.) helped the Eagles win nine games in 2023 for the second consecutive season and saw the Eagles reach new heights in the FCS rankings, climbing as high as No. 7 nationally. He is the reigning Offensive Player of the Year, earning the title following a stellar 2022 campaign. Richard is tied for first in the FCS in points responsible for, averaging 24.0 points per game, and ranks in the Top-15 nationally in 13 different categories. Richard tops the MEAC in total offense (313.0 total y/g – #4 FCS), scoring (18.0 ppg – #2 FCS), passing touchdowns (14), rushing touchdowns (18 – #2 FCS), completions per game (16.0 – #4 FCS), completion percentage (59.3%). He is a five-time selection as MEAC Offensive Player of the Week in 2023.

Richard finished the 2023 season with a conference-best 2,177 passing yards and 21 touchdown passes. He connected on 166 of 273 passes in 11 games and finished with a school-record completion percentage of 60.8 percent. He also led the Eagles in rushing touchdowns with 18, breaking the school’s single-season record. Richard is only the second player in school history to amass more than 10,000 yards of total offense. Has accounted for 117 career touchdowns (73 passing, 44 rushing), breaking the school record.

Richard is a finalist for the Stats Perform Peyton Award, given annually to the best offensive player at the FCS level. The award is known in some circles as the “Heisman of FCS.” Additionally, Richard is one of 18 finalists for the 2023 Walter Campbell Trophy to be announced tonight at the 65th Annual NFF Annual Awards Dinner, which will be held tonight at 7 PM PST at the ARIA Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. 

Gallop Jr. (DB, Sr., 6-1, 214, Portsmouth, Va.) was selected as the 2023 MEAC Defensive Player of the Year after helping Howard win the MEAC Regular Season title. The Bison went 4-1 in conference play with a marquis win over then-ranked No. 7 N.C. Central. Gallop Jr. was named FCS National Defensive Player of the Week while also garnering MEAC Defensive Player of the Week honors twice. He produced 61 total tackles (40 solo) with six tackles for loss, three interceptions, two forced fumbles, and two quarterback hurries. Gallop Jr. recorded a season-high 11 tackles and an interception against Norfolk State. He also registered eight tackles, seven solo, and forced and recovered a fumble against Hampton.

Gallop Jr. is a finalist for the Buck Buchanan Award, given to the best defensive player in FCS. Gallop Jr. has 244 total tackles as a Bison, with 155 solo stops. He has one game remaining this season as he will compete in the Cricket Celebration Bowl on Saturday, Dec. 16, in Atlanta, Georgia.

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“Coach Joel Taylor possesses all the qualities necessary to be an incredibly successful head coach at our level. We are thrilled to have Joel and his wife, Mechelle, join us here. He is a brilliant coach, extremely driven, incredibly focused, and a remarkable leader of young people,” West Georgia AD Jason Carmichael said in a release. “Coach Taylor will be someone fans of UWG Football and supporters of the University of West Georgia can rally around. His capacity to be both strategic and relentless at the same time will inspire not only his players and staff but the broader West Georgia community.”

Taylor will become the first coach at West Georgia at the Division I level, as UWG is moving to the FCS. 

Taylor was one of the last players at South Carolina State University to play for Willie Jeffries and one of the first to play for Buddy Pough as he was on the field from 2001 through 2004. After helping the team win a share of the 2004 MEAC title he joined the coaching staff at his alma mater.

He joined the coaching staff the following season, staying there before a one-year stint at Lenoir-Rhyne. He rejoined the staff at SC State in 2010 and helped the the program win another MEAC title that season as well as 2013.  

Taylor spent the next five years as defensive backs coach at The Citadel before returning to Lenoir-Rhyne as defensive coordinator for one season. One his defensive backs was Kyle Dugger, who was drafted by the New England Patriots. He then moved up to the FCS level, joining the same role at Mercer. His 2022 team ranked 17th nationally in yards per play allowed and gave up just 22.1 points per game and led the FCS with 17 interceptions and gave up a conference-low 28 touchdowns over the course of the season.

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Reed told The Pivot that he thought about taking the Jackson State job at the behest of Deion Sanders as he was preparing to enter coaching.  

“I talked to him before that because he was like ‘I want you to go to Jackson State,” Reed said. “I want to give this to you and nobody else.”

Ed Reed said Sanders called him about the Jackson State job the day after he was called by Bethune-Cookman University. 

“He’s like, I want to give this to you man. I can’t think of nobody else who love them kids like this.”

Reed said he even sat down with Jackson State University AD Ashley Robinson about the job.

“I was like, I gotta go visit there too. I went to visit BCU, and I’m leaning to BCU because – if it’s about the culture, our culture – why not help the other one get up? That’s why I chose BCU over Jackson State. “Ashley and them (JSU) –  the bells and whistles was there. I was just like let’s build up another brother, sister HBCU while we’re here.”

Reed eventually had his offer rescinded at Bethune-Cookman after controversial comments he made regarding the conditions of the school on social media many times.

A recent report by HBCU Sports cites a source that states he is interested in the Grambling State head coaching vacancy.

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WACO, TX — Bowie State head football coach Kyle Jackson was selected for the 2024 35 Under 35 Coaches Leadership Institute, the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) announced Monday.

“It is an honor to be selected for the 2024 AFCA 35 Under 35 Coaches Leadership Institute,” said Jackson. “I am grateful for the opportunity and excited to get to Nashville and learn with some of the nation’s best football coaches.”

This year’s class was chosen from a field of over 175 highly qualified applicants.

Jackson, who was officially named the 10th head football coach in Bowie State history on Jan. 23, 2023. The decision followed Kyle Jackson after serving in the role as interim in the 2022 season, where he led the team to a 6-4 record and eight players earned CIAA All-Conference honors, with Joshua Pryor (defensive lineman) being named the 2021 CIAA Defensive Player of the Year and five First Team All-CIAA selections. Additionally, Pryor and Jordan Griffin (tight end) were both selected First Team and Second Team All Super Region Two honorees. Jackson also had five Bulldogs participate in the second Annual Black College Football HBCU Legacy Bowl in New Orleans.

This past season, Jackson and the Bulldogs garnered eight All-CIAA selections, including two First Team honorees in Kaleb Chester (offensive lineman) and Devin Williams (defensive back), followed by Second Team All-CIAA awardees in Justin Zavala (punter/place kicker), Shawan Lewis (defensive lineman), Hasan Mosley (defensive back), Jadon Carter (defensive back) and two All-CIAA Rookie Team selectees in Jordan Morse (quarterback) and Malcolm Sesay (defensive back). Jackson just wrapped up his first season at the helm with a  6-4 overall record, 5-3 CIAA record, capped by a three-game winning streak. 

The AFCA 35 Under 35 Coaches Leadership Institute is a prestigious program aimed at identifying and developing premier, future leaders in the football coaching profession. Selected participants are invited to attend the one-day institute that features a curriculum of interactive lectures focused on topics specifically tailored to emphasize leadership in the coaching profession, ethics, influential responsibilities, career progression, and family balance.

For the most up-to-date information on Bowie State Athletics and its 13 varsity sport teams, visit bsbulldogs.com. 

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A multi-year contract would have to be approved by the South Carolina State University Board of Trustees. The next BOT meeting is set for Dec. 7. 

The former Savannah State offensive lineman took over as Benedict College head in 2020 and led the team to 5-5 record during his first season. His teams went on to win back-to-back SIAC titles over the past two seasons, going 10-0 in each regular season and winning the SIAC title game. He is 27-7 as a head coach in three seasons. 

Pough has served as head coach at South Carolina State University since 2002. He succeeded Willie Jeffries, who coached SC State from 1989 through 2001 in his second stint at the school. 

Chennis Berry is no stranger to the MEAC. He previously served as co-offensive coordinator and offensive line coach a Howard University. He also coached the offensive line at North Carolina A&T twice, including a stint as offensive coordinator in 2009 and 2010. In between his stints in Greensboro he spent a few seasons as offensive coordinator at Morgan State.

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SWAC Commissioner Dr. Charles McClelland told HBCU Gameday’s Vaughan Wilson he was certain the SWAC was getting a jewel in FAMU, and Saturday’s win was the culmination of that hunch. 

“There was never a question as to whether or not that was the right decision to invite Florida A&M,” McClelland said. “Great band, great fans, great administration, great culture, great everything. And when you really look at it, they fit perfectly with what we do.” 

A soaked but elated FAMU head coach Willie Simmons recalled the decision to switch conferences and the reaction to it leaving the MEAC for the SWAC.

“We had a lot of success in that league. There were a lot of people that said we weren’t built for the SWAC or it would take us a long time to get it done,” Simmons said. “To be here in this moment three years later, having a 23-2 conference record during that time is a testament to these guys, their hard work, their commitment to excellence and their sacrifices and just them wanting to prove they’re one of the best teams in America.”

FAMU now sets its sights on Atlanta, where it will look to end a five-game losing streak for the SWAC to the MEAC. McClelland made it clear that the SWAC is counting on FAMU to get the job done when it faces Howard University on Dec. 16.

“We understand that the SWAC championship is extremely, extremely important, McClelland said. “But we put a new mandate out there. The Celebration Bowl has to be won by the Southwestern Athletic Conference, and we’re looking to Florida A&M to turn that trajectory around so we can start winning that ball game.”

Like it or not, FAMU is not only SWAC – it is the SWAC Champion. And it’s also now the league’s hope to end its dreadful streak to the bullying the MEAC has done to the SWAC in HBCU football’s biggest game. 

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“I would like to thank God, my parents and everyone who has supported me in my life. With that being said, I will be stepping away from soccer and pursuing collegiate football as a kicker,” Armenta tweeted. “It has been my dream to play Division I football and playing for Coach TC Taylor has been a blessing. I am very thankful for the opportunity to continue playing for such an amazing program. I will continue pursuing my football career at Jackson State University and I would like to thank the Tiger family for supporting me and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for the JSU football program.”

Armenta made her debut with Jackson State football against Bethune-Cookman in September, kicking the ball off after injuries sidelined all JSU’s available kickers. A few weeks later she made history again when she kicked multiple extra points in JSU’s 40-14 win over Arkanas-Pine Bluff. 

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“Dear Campbell, I’m grateful with how this place has connected me with people that will forever have a positive impact on me,” Williams wrote. “The thing about time is that it waits for no one and when it comes you must respect it and take action. Our time has ended together and I know I left a legacy that will forever be cherished. After seeking wise counseling I’ve decided to enter the transfer portal. The history is there and I wrote my own story!”

Hajj-Malik Williams had a career season in 2023, completing 232 of 328 pass attempts for 2,609 yards while throwing 19 touchdowns. He also rushed for five touchdowns. Williams arrived at Campbell as a dual threat, rushing for 664 yards and nine scores as a true freshman in 2019. He finished his career 1,600 rushing yards and 24 rushing touchdowns to go along with 8,236 passing yards and 58 touchdowns in 41 games.

Williams had some big games against HBCUs over the past few seasons as Campbell took on NC Central and Jackson State in 2022 and then played Hampton, NC Central and North Carolina A&T this fall.  He threw for 302 yards and five touchdowns in an overtime loss to NC Central as well as tossing a pair of touchdowns in wins over CAA members Hampton and North Carolina A&T.

Williams figures to draw interest from FBS level teams thanks to his career success and talent. He hasn’t posted any offers in the first few hours since his announcement, but that doesn’t figure to last. FCS HBCU programs would be foolish not to express their interest in him.

North Carolina A&T’s quarterback room has been impacted heavily by the transfer portal as it looks to re-tool under Vincent Brown. North Carolina Central appears to have its heir apparent to Davius Richard in Walker Harris and isn’t fond of the transfer portal, but its offense could benefit from Williams’ tools. Williams would be an upgrade for the majority of HBCU programs on the FCS level, including Tennessee State, Hampton and other SWAC schools. 

It appears to be a long-shot given his experience and productivity, but HBCU fans should keep an eye on Hajj-Malik Williams and where he lands. 

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Thompson enters the transfer portal for the second time in his college career after wrapping up his third year at Jackson State.

“Thank you, Coach Prime, for introducing me to Jackson State University and making me a part of thee family,” Thompson wrote.

“I am so thankful for the last 3 years at JSU, where I grew tremendously under the leadership of Coach Prime, Coach TC Taylor, and many influential staff members. I have so much love for my teammates, who have become lifelong friends, and I look forward to us cheering for each other on and off the field.”

With full trust in God’s plan, I am entering the transfer portal as a graduate student, eager to play out the next 2 years of my eligibility.”

During his time at Jackson State , Thompson saw limited action as his only passing statistics are from the 2023 Blue and White Spring Game. Thompson threw a 35-yard touchdown pass while competing for a spot on the Tiger’s quarterback depth chart. However, teammate Esias Guthrie praised Thompson for his work as scout-team quarterback to help this season’s defense help with preparation.

Thompson transferred to Jackson State in 2021 after redshirting for a year at North Texas. He was a part of a talented initial transfer class for Deion Sanders that included Isaiah Bolden, Aubrey Miller, Shilo Sanders, and Malachi Wideman.

Thompson’s announcement comes days after former Jackson State football teammate Duke Miller announced that he will enter the transfer portal.

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That news came almost simultaneously with the news that NC A&T will be going in a different direction in terms of offensive coordinator.

Head coach Vincent Brown announced on Tuesday that Chris Young will not be returning as offensive coordinator.

“After careful consideration and evaluation of our offense, I decided that we needed to go in a different direction at offensive coordinator,” Brown wrote in a statement released by the school. “We will continue to work tirelessly to lay the foundation for a championship-caliber program. There will be no further comment on this matter.”

North Carolina A&T’s averaged just 16.1 points per game, second worst in the Coastal Athletic Association this season. It finished sixth in rushing with 158 yards per game, but the passing game was the bottom of the barrel, averaging 104 yards per game and throwing just five touchdowns in 12 games. 

Hooker latest North Carolina A&T quarterback to hit portal

Son of North Carolina A&T legend Al Hooker, Alston Hooker was one of four quarterbacks on the roster when the season started. The redshirt sophomore saw limited action this fall, playing only in the season finale. He completed 11 of 15 passes for 159 yards and a touchdown – all career highs. 

“I’ve celebrated the Blue and Gold, screamed Aggie Pride and cherished the interlock of A&T my whole life,” Alston wrote in his announcement. “It has been a dream come true to study engineering here and play on the field where my dad and uncle played. I’ve grown a lot during my tenure and I’m grateful for the time I’ve spent here. With that said I am entering the transfer portal with 2 years of eligibility to explore other opportunities. I am so thankful to the Aggie family for all the love and support you have shown me during my time on campus. To my teammates who selflessly wear the Aggie brand with pride I want to say thank you for the love and the laughs we had during my time here. I will miss you the most but know I am just leaving the house not the family.”

Hooker is the third North Carolina A&T quarterback to hit the transfer portal, with his announcement coming just a week after Eli Brickhandler and Zach Yeager hit the transfer portal last week. Only freshman KJ White remains as of now. 

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The former Oakland Raiders and Cleveland Browns coach is parting ways with Grambling State University, according to multiple reports.

Jackson went 8-14 in two seasons as head coach at Grambling State University. He went 5-6 in 2023, concluding with a 27-22 loss to Southern University in the Bayou Classic. 

He signed a five-year deal that paid him $400,000 per year in base salary. However, according to the school’s revenue and expense report, Jackson received total compensation of $783,585 in 2022 thanks to a clause that entitled him to 25 percent of of any new monies he brought into the university through promotions, sponsorships or other initiatives according to a report by Sportico.

Jackson made headldines early in his tenure for his attempt to hire former Baylor head coach Art Briles as his offensive coordinator ahead of the 2022 season. The move was heavily criticized and Briles never coached at GSU.

Grambling State University will now begin to search for a new head football coach for the fifth time since Eddie Robinson retired following the 1997 season. Since then Doug Williams (twice), Melvin Spears, Broderick Fobbs and Hue Jackson have served as full-time head coach at the iconic football program. This will be the second search in two years as GSU fired Fobbs prior to the 2021 Bayou Classic before ultimately hiring Hue Jackson. 

The Grambling State opening is the third in the SWAC as both Texas Southern and Southern University are looking for new head coaches.

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All-SWAC First Team Defense
Defensive Lineman: Malachi Bailey, Alcorn State
Defensive Lineman: Anthony Dunn Jr., Florida A&M
Defensive Lineman: Sundiata Anderson, Grambling State
Defensive Lineman: Ckelby Givens, Southern
Linebacker: Isaiah Major, Florida A&M
Linebacker: Colton Adams, Alabama State
Linebacker: Rico Dozier, Arkansas-Pine Bluff
Defensive Back: Omari Hill-Robinson, Bethune-Cookman
Defensive Back: Kendall Bohler, Florida A&M
Defensive Back: Jordan Carter, Southern
Defensive Back: Eric Smith, Florida A&M
 
All-SWAC First Team Specialist
Place Kicker: Cameron Gillis, Florida A&M
Punter: Jimmy Iles, Grambling State
Return Specialist: Terrell Gardner, Alabama A&M
Long Snapper: Braxston Blackwell, Southern
 
All-SWAC Second Team Offense
Quarterback: Aaron Allen, Alcorn State
Running Back: Chance Williams, Grambling State
Running Back: Donovan Eaglin, Alabama A&M
Offensive Lineman: Ashton Grable, Florida A&M
Offensive Lineman: Arrington Taylor, Prairie View A&M
Offensive Lineman: Dominic Boyd, Alabama State
Offensive Lineman: Arelious Dunn, Alabama State
Offensive Lineman: Evan Henry, Jackson State
Wide Receiver: Jah’Marae Sheread, Florida A&M
Wide Receiver: Marcus Riley, Florida A&M
Tight End: D.J. Stevens, Jackson State

All-SWAC Second Team Defense
Defensive Lineman: Tahj Brown, Southern
Defensive Lineman: Gentle Hunt, Florida A&M
Defensive Lineman: Treqwan Thomas, Alabama State
Defensive Lineman: Zareon Hayes, Alabama A&M
Linebacker: Isaac Peppers, Jackson State
Linebacker: Jacob Williams, Texas Southern
Linebacker: Johnny Chaney Jr., Florida A&M
Defensive Back: Emari Pait, Alabama A&M
Defensive Back: Keenan Leachman, Alcorn State
Defensive Back: Mikey Victor, Alabama State
Defensive Back: Lovie Jenkins, Florida A&M

 
All-SWAC Second Team Specialist
Place Kicker: Joshua Griffin, Southern
Punter: Matt Noll, Jackson State
Return Specialist: Robert McMinn, Alabama State
Long Snapper: Clayton Thomas Jr., Bethune-Cookman

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Earlier this year Delaware New Journal reporter Kevin Tresolini, a University of Delaware alumnus, used attendance at a Hampton vs. Delaware game as an example of why the school was ready to bolt the league.

Interestingly enough, just over 4,000 fans showed up for the University of Delaware’s first round FCS Playoff game against Lafayette. Its stadium seats better than 18,000.

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Benedict led 19-14 at halftime but could not maintain the momentum as Lenoir-Rhyne scored 21 unanswered points to take a 35-19 lead with just over nine minutes remaining. Benedict would score on a third connection from Dennis to Harden with 5:49 remaining but was unable to get any closer.

The loss ends Benedict’s season at 11-1 for the second consecutive year in the NCAA Division II playoffs at the hands of a South Atlantic Conference team. Last year, Wingate came into Columbia and knocked off the top seed.

Now all eyes will be on Columbia to see where – if anywhere – head coach Chennis Berry lands as he figures to be in the mix for several FCS head coaching jobs after going 22-2 in his last two seasons at Benedict.

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All awards and honors were voted on by the MEAC’s head football coaches and sports information directors.  

The conference’s Offensive and Defensive Players of the Year recipients will be announced during the National Football Hall of Fame as a part of the 65th NFF Annual Awards Dinner on Tuesday, Dec. 5, at the Aria Resort in Las Vegas, Nev.  

North Carolina Central’s Torricelli Simpkins II was named the Offensive Lineman of the Year, while South Carolina State’s Jawarn Howell earned Rookie of the Year honors. North Carolina Central head coach Trei Oliver was named MEAC Coach of the Year for the second straight year.  

Simpkins III is North Carolina Central’s second straight offensive lineman to earn the conference’s top spot in as many years. Simpkins III anchored the Eagles’ offensive line that amassed the conference-best total passing yards (2354), passing average (214.00 avg/g), scoring offense (36.6 avg/g), and rushing touchdowns (25), seventh-best in the football championship subdivision (FCS). The Eagles ranked second in the conference in total offense with 4138 yards. Simpkins III has received three MEAC Weekly Offensive Lineman honors this year.  

Howell leads the MEAC in rushing with 808 yards (80.9 ypg) on 102 carries, and 7 TDs. He also recorded ten receptions for 149 yards, 2 TDs in nine games. He was named the FedEx Ground FCS National Offensive Player of the Week following a 283-yard rushing performance on 27 carries and three touchdowns in the Bulldogs’ win over Howard. In addition to the national honors, Howell earned MEAC Rookie of the Week honors for four straight weeks.   

Coach Oliver led the Eagles to a 9-2 overall record and a 4-1 mark in conference play. The Eagles fell short of repeating as conference champions this season, however, they earned an at-large bid to the NCAA Division I FCS playoffs, the program’s first NCAA appearance. NCCU posted non-conference FCS wins over No. 25 Elon, Campbell, North Carolina A&T, and Mississippi State. Under Coach Oliver’s leadership, the Eagles are ranked 13 in the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) poll and 16th in the Stat Perform FCS poll. This season, the Eagles were ranked as high as No. 7 (Nov. 6).  

See below for the entire list of All-MEAC team selectees. 

2023 All-MEAC Football Postseason Awards

Coach of the Year – Trei Oliver, North Carolina Central

Offensive Lineman of the Year – Torricelli Simpkins III, North Carolina Central

Rookie of the Year – Jawarn Howell, South Carolina State

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TALLAHASSEE, Fla. —— Florida A&M football is having its best season since entering the 2000s, and a large part is due to Head Coach Willie Simmons at the helm. Coach Simmons continues to have more accolades as he is named an Eddie Robinson Award Finalist for the FCS National Coach of the Year.

Under Simmons’ leadership this season, Florida A&M football finished the regular season with its highest national ranking since 1998 at five and had their first ten-win season since 1999. Also, FAMU possesses the nation’s number-one total defense. The FAMU defense also finished the season ranked top-19 in 11 categories.

Defensive Rankings (Top-19)

• 19th – Passing Yards Allowed

• 16th – 1st Down Defense

• 8th – Red Zone Defense

• 6th – Sacks

• 4th – Defensive Touchdowns

• 3rd – Passing Efficiency Defense

• 2nd – 3rd Down Defense

• 2nd – Rushing Defense

• 2 – Scoring Defense

• 1st – Tackles for Loss

• 1st – Total Defense

The Rattlers also ranked top-30 in other statistical categories, including punt return defense (30th), kickoff return defense (28th), scoring offense (27th), passing yards per completion (27th), passes intercepted (26th), time of possession (26th), sacks allowed (25th), blocked punts (18th), and punt returns (14th).

Florida A&M football continued to make history this season after going 8-0 in the SWAC and winning their first SWAC East Championship. FAMU will host its first-ever SWAC Championship Game on December 2 versus Prairie View A&M. Since joining the SWAC, they have possessed the best conference record with a 22-2 record in three seasons. The Rattlers also possess the nation’s second-longest winning streak (9 games), home game winning streak (19 games), and conference game winning streak (15 games).

Previous HBCU coaches to win the award include Dr. Henry Frazier (Prairie View) and Deion Sanders (Jackson State). The complete list of finalists for the Eddie Robinson Award can be found here.

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If it was up to Taylor, who waited in the shadows of Deion Sanders the last three seasons for his chance to lead the program, the  last time assessing his team’s performance would have been on Dec. 16 in the annual Celebration Bowl in Atlanta. Atlanta marked the beginning for his “Guard Thee Yard” mantra for Taylor following JSU’s heartbreaking loss to North Carolina Central in last year’s clash between the MEAC and SWAC champions. 

It’s also the city where Tiger fans fired off chants of  “T-C. T-C.” from the bleachers of Center Parc Stadium in the final moments of JSU defeating South Carolina State in this year’s MEAC/SWAC Challenge, giving Taylor his first win at the helm of the program. Although Taylor wasn’t visibly frustrated behind the blue table, he wasn’t satisfied.

“When we started this thing [season] off, we talked about starting in Atlanta, finishing in Atlanta,” Taylor said. “And we fell a little short in that.”

However, Taylor’s goal to lead Jackson State (7-4, 5-3) back to the Celebration Bowl was dashed three weeks prior to Saturday’s loss when SWAC East foe Florida A&M defeated Alabama A&M to clinch the division crown and its spot in this year’s SWAC title game. But to some fans within the HBCU landscape, the Tigers’ dream of making three-straight SWAC championship game and Celebration Bowl appearances ended after JSU lost to FAMU in the Orange Blossom Classic in September. 

In any case, Taylor hoped to send his seniors out with a win on Senior Day, especially for an elder statesman like senior tight end D.J. Stevens, who has been a part of the team prior to Taylor returning as an assistant in ‘19 under former head coach John Hendrick. After giving up 14 points to the Braves within the first seven minutes of the contest, JSU followed its standard order of business in outscoring opponents in the second quarter. Jacobian Morgan, who started his fourth game on Saturday, orchestrated two methodical offensive drives that were capped with touchdown passes of four and 26 yards respectively to tie the game at halftime.

Both teams scored touchdowns within the first four possessions of the third quarter that included a beautifully placed deep ball 38 yards down the left sideline from Morgan to Fabian McCray for a touchdown that sent Taylor airborne in his excitement and tied the game at 21.

After the short-lived celebration, two of the biggest themes that plagued the Tigers all season continued to take center stage: penalties and injuries. From JSU’s 31 with less than six minutes to play in the third, Jackson State football safety John Huggins was assessed a penalty for pass interference on a pass from Braves quarterback Aaron Allen to Malik Rodgers, elevating Alcorn to the TIgers’ 16-yard line. A couple of plays later, Allen launched his third touchdown of the game on a 12-yard pass to Rodgers, giving the Braves the 28-21 advantage.

After Morgan’s touchdown late in the third quarter, he didn’t re-enter the game again as he suffered an apparent shoulder injury. Jason Brown, who started JSU’s first seven games, stepped in for Morgan and aided the Tigers on a drive that resulted in a 35-yard field goal from Dylan Wasson to cut the Tigers’ deficit to four with nearly 7:00 to play in the fourth.

Even after the Tigers forced a punt and recorded an interception in two of the Braves final three possessions in the game, JSU’s final offensive drive of the season was the ultimate illustration of the program at times struggling with penalties in clutch situations. Freshman running back Ezequiel Johnson burst through the Braves defensive front for 42 yards before he was tackled at midfield. But after the explosive run, referees smacked JSU with three consecutive penalties–two for holding and one for a 15-yard facemask–that sent the Tigers backpedaling to their own 15-yard line.

When Taylor was asked about the penalty-ridden drive after the loss, he was not pleased.

“…I’ve never been a referee before,” he said. “I don’t know what they were seeing out there…In those kinds of situations, you just want to allow the players to decide a football game, you know, and I’m gonna leave it at that.”

What could have been Brown leading a game-winning drive and a potential eighth win for Taylor in his first season resulted in a overthrown ball to McCray on fourth and 17, a turnover on downs by the Tigers and a Braves’ sideline infused with excitement.

But, from a bigger picture, Taylor should hold his head high when grading the ‘23 campaign. He took over the program after the NFL Hall of Famer jetted to Colorado for a Power Five coaching opportunity in the Pac-12. Sanders took his sons, Shedeur and Shilo, to Colorado while also poaching other players from JSU who entered the transfer portal after his departure. For the players who did not retreat to Boulder, Colo., they entered the transfer portal in search of new teams.

Taylor brought in more than 70 new players to the program, worked with nearly an entire new staff and managed to finish 7-4 in his first season. For perspective, Taylor recorded the best winning percentage by a JSU head coach in his first full season since ‘99 under the late head coach Robert Hughes, who recorded a 9-3 campaign before notching three consecutive 7-4 seasons in his four-year tenure. Sanders’ first season at Jackson State–the unprecedented ‘21 campaign–was limited to seven games because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The 2023 Jackson State football season does not negate the fact that the Tigers must improve in their recruiting and limiting penalties and mistakes during games if they seek to play football in December. In fact, Taylor has preached those concepts all season and wasted no time in stating that he would not be resting on his laurels in the offseason.

“To be 7-4, that’s something good to build on,” Taylor said. “…We can’t just keep playing close football games, we want to be dominant, you know, be able to separate. … We’re looking forward to ‘24.”

Taylor believes he is building something special at his alma mater. With one season in the books, the road to “Guarding Thee Yard” in Year 2 begins now.

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The FCS playoffs field was announced on Sunday afternoon and NC Central was awarded the bid and will travel to the University of Richmond. 

North Carolina Central finished the season 9-2, good for second in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference. That’s the same record it had last season when it went to the Celebration Bowl. The difference is it lost to Howard University on Nov. 11, giving HU the head-to-head tiebreaker as both teams finished 4-1 in the six-team league. The loss to Howard was NCCU’s lone defeat at the hands of an FCS team. Its other defeat came at the hands of UCLA in September. 

Richmond comes into the matchup 8-3, with two of its losses coming against HBCUs. That includes Morgan State, which North Carolina Central defeated in Baltimore last month, as well as former MEAC member Hampton University. However, it enters the playoffs on a six-game winning streak.

NCCU went 3-0 against CAA teams this year, defeating North Carolina A&T, Campbell University and Elon. NCCU and Richmond have two wins against common opponents. Both programs beat Delaware State and North Carolina A&T. Richmond pummeled DSU 38-6, while NCCU defeated it 55-14. Richmond beat NC A&T 33-10, while NCCU defeated its rival 30-16. 

NCCU becomes just the second MEAC team to make the playoffs since the league gave up its automatic bid to the FCS playoffs back in 2015 as part of the deal with the Celebration Bowl. The first was North Carolina A&T, who finished second to NCCU in 2016. Ironically, both teams were awarded bids after playing in the Celebration Bowl previously.

This will be North Carolina Central’s inaugural trip to the FCS playoffs.

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