With a hoard of re-aligning, transfers, and coaching changes, the SIAC is virtually wide open this season.  Albany State wants to stake its claim on the title by rebuilding and improving the program.  With a solid core of veterans, Quinn Gray could be in a position to return Albany State to the pinnacle of the SIAC, which was last reached by Gabe Giardina.

The ASU Coliseum was the site of the Blue & Gold game. It was a festive atmosphere as the university was hosting an open house for visiting families interested in attending the plush southern Georgia campus. With a full squad of cheerleaders and an impressive 346-member band playing, it was the perfect opportunity for the players to display what they had worked on for 15 days.

The first half belonged to the “Dirty Blue” defense.  Led by cornerback Deven Foster, the defense thwarted most attempts by the offense.  It would lead to the offense only scoring on field goals in the first half.  Foster picked off a pass and ran it down to the offense’s one-yard line before being tackled.

The second half belonged to the offense. All-SIAC quarterback Isaiah Knowles got things in gear, and the offense scored some touchdowns. Uncharacteristically, Quinn Gray had all quarterbacks except Knowles as live targets in the game.  

Albany State senior kicker Kyle Wright was spot-on all game.  He nailed every field goal attempt and did a great job performing in swirling wind conditions.  “Kyle has done a tremendous job for us in the kicking game when it comes down to field goals and putting points on the board when we aren’t able to put the ball in the end zone,” Gray said.   “He understands situations and what his role is when it comes down to putting points on the board. We call him Mr. Automatic.”

Gray commended the play of his team as he used the Spring to evaluate the talent and what holes might need to be filled for the Fall.  “Defense played a tremendous first half today and rightfully so.  We’ve been at each other all spring and, and here in the Blue and Gold game we really just simplified a lot of things and didn’t, really call everything that we could simply because it is on national TV but at the end of the day, we had enough in that we can put on a good show for the folks and then also get the work that we were trying to get, but defense flew around, pretty good,” Gray said.

Gray went on to explain the live quarterbacks in the game.  Knowles wore a white jersey to indicate that he was not live, but backups were in play.  “We wanted to make the quarterbacks besides Isaiah live because you’re talking about, Jayden Kenney who played his last meaningful snap in high school in fall of 2023.  So with that you’re talking about a guy who hadn’t really seen or felt the hit in a year and a half.  So we wanted to make those, those two guys live just to see how they react and what they do with the football in terms of decision making.  It was fairly good for us obviously there’s some things we need to clean up, but overall I’m happy with the way it turned out most importantly we’re healthy,” Gray said.

Quinn Gray has overhauled his defensive line position with a coach he experienced at both Delaware State and Alcorn State.  “Damon Francis came over from, Fort Valley, who was, who was with myself, Coach Cash, and Matt Brown at Alcorn State, back in 2021.  Francis has been doing this for the last 30 plus years.  His mindset and the way he coaches and the way he teaches our guys has our guys playing with a different mindset in terms of how we attack and I think we did too much thinking versus reacting and attacking last year and I and it’s evident in what you see on the field now,” Gray Concluded

With the era of coaches and players moving around fluidly on all NCAA levels, the landscape of college football has rapidly changed, and that holds true for Division II as well.  Gray has a philosophy in dealing with all that is going on. “As the cliche, you gotta focus on you, right?  We can’t necessarily focus on what’s going on in and around the SIAC.  We can only handle what we’ve got in front of us, and that’s an opportunity for us to get better as a team with our spring season,” Gray concluded.

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The sound at the Albany State University Coliseum was greater than it has ever been.  At Saturday’s Blue & Gold Game, William T. Brooks surprised the crowd with a spectacle usually reserved for an HBCU from the Division I ranks.

Midway in the first quarter of play the band made its entrance.  They started coming down the traditional hill between the Jones Brothers HPER Building and the stadium….and they kept coming…and kept coming.  In all 346-pieces participated with the Albany State Marching Rams Show Band.

It even caught the attention of ASU head coach Quinn Gray as he was trying to concentrate on the field, but the roaring sound of this massive band had the attention of everyone at the stadium.  “That gave us a little bit of energy as well because you get energy from the band and from the fans.  With those 300+ kids, they sounded absolutely amazing,” Gray said.

Brooks expanded the band for the day by making it a community band and inviting other high schools and middle schools to perform with them.  “I’m big on community and I wanted to reach out to our area and actually extend beyond our area just to get high school kids here on our campus so they could see some of the great things we have to offer here at Albany State University,” Brooks said.  “Multiple students answered the call and we ended up with the product that you see here today.  We’ve got 346 people here today.”

Understanding the HBCU experience

The band was the talk of the game.  Rehearsing on the morning before the game, you could hear them clear across campus from about 9:00AM until they marched into the stadium.  They were versed in some of the songs the ASU Marching Ram Show Band normally persons as well as the ASU “Get Buck” chant they perform with the ASU cheerleaders.

The ASU players commended the band on raising the entire energy of the game.  

Brooks was overwhelmed with the response to his call to participate by local musicians.  “36 different schools participated, not just high schools but middle schools as well.  346 students combined is the biggest band I’ve ever been in front of,” Brooks concluded.

Gray hinted at but stopped short of saying, what the sound of the band reminded him of.  “It took me back to another place…”. Gray is an HBCU graduate from Florida A&M University.

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SIAC coaches and sports information directors voted on the players selected for each team as well as the league’s Player of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, Newcomer of the Year, Freshman of the Year and Coach of the Year.

Miles College guard Alvin Miles was named the SIAC Player of the Year while Golden Bears head coach Fred Watson earned Coach of the Year honors. Fort Valley State forward Hassane Diallo earned Defensive Player of the Year honors, Lane guard Elijah Greer Dawson received Newcomer of the Year, Edward Waters forward Myles Hosten notched Freshman of the Year honors while Morehouse guard Cedric Taylor III earned Elite 16 honors.

Miles, a native of Memphis, Tenn., was one of the SIAC’s top 10 scorers this season, averaging 15.9 points per game (10th in the conference). He became the first player in program to earn the league’s top player award since Avery Brown accomplished the feat in 2020. Miles was the only SIAC player this season to score 400 points, grab 100 rebounds and notch 100 assists. He finished with double-figure production in 22 of the Golden Bears’ 26 contests while recording seven games of 20 or more points.

Diallo registered 177 rebounds with 120 coming on the defensive side of the ball in 28 games this season. He also finished second in the league in blocked shots (42) while registering 22 steals and averaging 10.5 points per contest.

Dawson averaged 16.8 points while shooting 44.4% from the field, dishing 3.0 assists and connecting on 76.9% from the free throw line per game in 18 contests this season. Beyond his scoring, Dawson averaged 4.1 rebounds per game while tallying a total of 39 steals and six blocks on defense.

Hosten averaged 8.0 points while shooting 38.8% from the floor and notched 4.8 rebounds in 13 games this season.

Watson registered his third Coach of the Year honors at Miles and the ninth of his career. He led Miles to a SIAC-best 23-3 mark that includes a 19-1 record in conference play and a perfect 12-0 mark at home, the Golden Bears best record inside Knox-Windham Gymnasium in program history.

Player of the Year

Alvin Miles

Defensive Player of the Year

Hassane Diallo

Newcomer of the Year

Elijah Greer Dawson

Freshman of the Year

Coach of the Year

Myles Hosten

The complete listing of the SIAC all-conference selections and individual awards winners can be found below.

All-SIAC First Team

• Shakur Poteat, Albany State
• Alvin Miles, Miles
• Walter Peggs, Jr., Miles
• Cedric Taylor III, Morehouse
• Lavar Miller Jr., Kentucky State

All-SIAC Second Team

• Kevin Sesberry, Tuskegee
• Jalen Williams, Clark Atlanta
• Prince Davies III, Edward Waters
• Kusamae Draper, Tuskegee
• Blaise Wallace, Albany State

All-SIAC Third Team

• Steven Lyles, Spring Hill
• Shemani Fuller, Clark Atlanta
• Corey Trotter, Miles
• Aziel Blackwell, Kentucky State
• Khalil Genwright, LeMoyne-Owen

All-SIAC Freshman Team

• Myles Hosten, Edward Waters
• Rocco Lamuno, Spring Hill
• Abdoul Sacko, LeMoyne-Owen
• Brandon Peters, Morehouse
• Christian Gary, Albany State

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“The experience we got with those guys last year and the way that we played in the Fountain City Classic, defensively, is the ‘Dirty Blue’ defense that we know.  To take the momentum from that game and take it into this spring, hopefully, we’ll have a tremendous spring in terms of competition and turn that page from last year moving forward.”

The Golden Rams topped the SIAC in offense. If there was an area that needed some bolstering, it was the defense. If ASU can continue its progress on defense and expand its capabilities on offense. it should be in the position it desires at the end of the season. The Blue and Gold could look to be a top contender in the highly-competitive SIAC.

Gray returns to Bragg Stadium as opposing coach

The Golden Rams will play SWAC HBCU Florida A&M (FAMU) early on. The Sept. 13 game will be Gray’s homecoming. He is in the FAMU Sports Hall of Fame for his record-setting passing under legendary HBCU football head coach Billy Joe. Gray says he will be focused on the task at hand.  

“It’s really a tremendous opportunity for us at Albany State to come down and play a good football team. We’re really trying to make sure we understand the magnitude of it.  We’re going down to win a ballgame,” Gray said.  “All of the outside noise with me coming back and all that good stuff. We really want to test and see where we are as a football team.  To come down here and play well and hopefully come out of here with a victory is what it’s all about.”

Quinn Gray Jr joins the Golden Rams squad

This year, two Quinn Grays will be on the Albany State sideline.  Quinn Gray Jr, who graduates from Tallahassee’s Lincoln High School this year, will be playing for his father this season.  After a standout career with the Trojans, Gray Jr. decided to take his talents to where his father is coaching.  Gray’s other som, Ashton Chaney-Gray. also graduates from Lincoln High School and will attend ASU as well.  This is an honor for his sons to choose to play for him, but they get no favoritism from Quinn Sr.

“Quinn (Gray Jr.) and Ash (Ashton Chaney-Gray) signed to play for me. As a father, you just want to see your boys succeed. If the next level is afforded to them, then it’s afforded to them. Fortunately, they are good football players, and it’s not like I’m doing them a favor. I told them that, at the end of the day, if you’re not playing good football, then you can go somewhere else. Having them with me is a blessing in itself. 

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Winston-Salem State, long regarded as a powerhouse within the CIAA, ranks eighth in the nation with 7,200 fans per game at Bowman Gray Stadium. The Rams’ ability to attract significant crowds underscores the enduring impact of HBCU culture, where football games double as cultural events, bringing together alumni, students, and fans for a celebration of heritage and athleticism.

Virginia Union and Clark Atlanta round out the group, exemplifying how HBCUs continue to command attention and loyalty in Division II. Beyond the numbers, these schools demonstrate the unique role that HBCU football programs play in their communities, fostering pride and engagement through generations.

While some FCS and even FBS programs struggle to fill their stands, HBCUs have consistently proven their ability to galvanize support, reinforcing their vital role in shaping the landscape of college football. These attendance figures are a testament to the cultural significance and enduring appeal of HBCU football.

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ATLANTA — Entering week ten of the football season, there is a lot left to be determined about who will compete in the 2024 SIAC Football Championship presented by Cricket. Matchups, contenders, pathways and possible outcomes are detailed below.

WEEK 10 SIAC FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

MILES COLLEGE
Miles (7-2, 7-0 SIAC) secured the No. 1 seed with its win over Morehouse last week. The game against Tuskegee will not affect Miles’ position in the standings.

• Miles holds the common opponent tiebreaker over Fort Valley State after defeating Clark Atlanta in week 7. Clark Atlanta defeated Fort Valley State in the season opener.

FORT VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY
Fort Valley State (6-3, 6-1 SIAC) controls its own destiny in week 10. The Wildcats will be the No. 2 seed if they defeat Albany State. Fort Valley State will be eliminated from contention with a loss because Albany State will hold the head-to-head tiebreaker.

CLARK ATLANTA UNIVERSITY
Clark Atlanta (6-2-1, 5-2 SIAC) will need to win against Morehouse and Fort Valley State lose for an SIAC Football Championship berth. 

• The scenario will leave Clark Atlanta, Fort Valley State and Albany State with 6-2 SIAC records. 
• Clark Atlanta holds the head-to-head over Fort Valley State.
• Clark Atlanta will have a higher combined SIAC opponent win percentage than Albany State.

ALBANY STATE UNIVERSITY
Albany State (5-4, 5-2 SIAC) will need to win against Fort Valley State, a Tuskegee loss and a Clark Atlanta loss. 

The Golden Rams will also have the potential to play in the championship if they win against Fort Valley State, Clark Atlanta loses, Tuskegee wins and Allen wins. 

• This scenario will create a combined SIAC opponent win percentage tie with Tuskegee. 
• The team ranked highest in the regional rankings will receive the No. 2 seed spot. 
• If neither team is ranked in the region, a draw by lot will occur.

TUSKEGEE UNIVERSITY
Tuskegee (5-4, 5-2 SIAC) will need to win against Miles, a Fort Valley State loss, a Clark Atlanta loss and an Allen loss.

• In this scenario, Tuskegee will have the higher combined SIAC opponent win percentage over Albany State.

If Tuskegee beats Miles, Fort Valley State loses, Clark Atlanta loses and Edward Waters loses, the Golden Bears will also have the potential to play in the championship.

• This scenario will create a combined SIAC opponent win percentage tie with Albany State.
•  The team ranked highest in the regional rankings will receive the No. 2 seed spot. 
• If neither team is ranked in the region, a draw by lot will occur.

SIAC FOOTBALL STANDINGS 
**As of 11/3/24

Savannah State, Kentucky State, Benedict, Lane, Edward Waters, Morehouse, Allen, and Central State have all been eliminated from championship contention. 

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The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) is leading the investigation into the incident, with support from state and local law enforcement agencies. At this time, the cause and circumstances surrounding the tragic event remain unclear, but authorities are actively gathering information to provide answers to the shaken campus and surrounding community.

In the aftermath of this devastating incident, Albany State University, a proud member of the HBCU family, has reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and security of its students, faculty, and staff. The university’s administration has expressed deep sorrow over the loss and injuries and is working diligently to ensure the well-being of those affected.

The university is offering counseling and other mental health services to students, encouraging them to seek help during this difficult time. As the investigation unfolds, the ASU community continues to lean on one another, united by their shared history and culture as an HBCU.

More updates are expected as details emerge, but for now, the Albany State University family remains focused on supporting one another through the pain of this tragedy. The entire HBCU community grieves with ASU, sending thoughts and prayers to those affected.

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The school embraced the moment that these players will never forget. The video was posted with the following description.

“True raw footage of #CreatingLegacies at Albany State. 12 of our students flew for the first time. Watch as these two young men react to the plane taking off. Their priceless reactions capture the mix of joy and fear in this unforgettable moment.”

Three unnamed players were sitting together on the same row and totally lost it as the plane accelerated and rose into the air. The players laughed as they looked out of the window but couldn’t bare to watch as the plane began to gain altitude. At one point the two players closest to the window buried their heads into one another’s shoulders to totally avoid the view. They were stuck between the desire to see the magnificent view and being afraid of it at the same time. People in the comments section shared their joy of seeing these players show their raw emotions during the flight.

“Poor guys! I remember my first time. I had more fear than excitement. Now I love it because I love traveling. Glad they got to experience it. Hoping this is first of many times for them. Love my HBCU!!!” wrote user Tambernesha Wells.

User Rhonda Chichester chimed in “At least they got each other…Awesome video.”

The Golden Rams were traveling to Rochester, New York to take on Central State University in the “Frederick Douglass Classic.” The game is part of a weekend full of activities to bring a complete HBCU experience to Rochester, a neutral site venue.

Other users could feel the pain of the player with the window seat, “The one closest to the window (laughing emoji) hang in there lol,” wrote @ebknowing.

It’s not a common experience for HBCU programs to use airlines for regular travel. Due to budget constraints programs often use buses as the standard mode of travel unless the distance is too great. Rochester and Albany are 1,143 miles apart, which would amount to a 17 hour drive, without stops.

The video of the football players’ reactions has been viewed over 61,000 times on the X platform with 88 reposts and nearly 800 likes.

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“You know you got grown men talking to my my players. You know I don’t mind coaches going back and forth,” Jones told HBCU Gameday in an exclusive interview on the network’s D2 football show. “But I can guarantee you that when they played Valdosta State they didn’t do that about Valdosta State. So you know once again anything we are good football team.”

Shaw ended up picking up the 43-40 win on the road, icing the game in the last minute of regulation. Jones said that Gray didn’t shake his hand after the game — which he found insulting. 

“Win, lose our draw, we talk about showing character as head coaches and leading our young men and showing them how, young men are supposed to be. The slap in the face is not shaking my hand after the game.” 

Gray responded to Jones’ claims on Wednesday night on “The Rebuttal.” He says he couldn’t speak to what his assistants may have said prior to the game because he wasn’t there. He did, however, take issue with Jones’ assertion that he lacked sportsmanship by not shaking hands — though he confirmed that he did not.

“It wasn’t because I didn’t want to shake his hand. After the game there was a situation where his team stormed across the field and I was trying to make sure that my team stayed under control and didn’t get out of control to the point…because I did have a couple of young men who were upset — obviously because of the kind of game it was, there’s a lot of competitive banter during the game. So there were some emotions during the game or right there at the end once the clock hit zero,” Gray said. 

Gray, a former Florida A&M star and NFL quarterback with the Jacksonville Jaguars, says he was more focused on keeping the piece than exchanging pleasantries. 

“And I definitely had to keep my team under control. And while I was trying to keep my team under control, his team continued to approach our guys on our sidelines, talking in “such a way that would be upsetting to anyone who had just lost a game. But at the end of the day, it is all competitive. But at the end of the day, I did have to continue to control my team and keep my team under control.”

Gray is in his second year as head coach at the Albany, GA-based HBCU program.

“If it got lost in translation that I didn’t shake his hand, then I apologize for that. But at the end of the day, it is what it is. Like every other coach, he has my phone number, and if we want to talk about professionalism, he could have called my phone and we could have talked about it like men instead of going to these media outlets.”

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The Arthur Blank Family Foundation has announced a $6.5 million gift. This generous grant underscores the foundation’s ongoing support for HBCUs and their vital role in fostering educational and athletic excellence.

The funding will be distributed across four institutions: Albany State University in Albany, Georgia; Clark Atlanta University in Atlanta; Miles College in Fairfield, Alabama; and Savannah State University in Savannah, Georgia. These enhancements will provide top-tier facilities that support the development of student-athletes and strengthen the athletic programs at each school.

All four of the institutions compete in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, made up of Division II programs from South Carolina to Alabama. 

Albany State University has used the grant to convert its natural grass football and soccer field at Albany State University Coliseum to blue turf, offering a modernized playing surface. Clark Atlanta University, located in the heart of Atlanta, replaced the aging turf at Panther Stadium, enhancing the home field for its football team with a red surface. In Alabama, Miles College will convert the natural grass at its practice facility to turf, allowing for better training conditions. Savannah State University is replacing the turf at Ted Wright Stadium, ensuring its football and soccer teams compete on a state-of-the-art field.

The Atlanta Falcons, whose owner Arthur M. Blank has long been a supporter of HBCUs, have expressed pride in the foundation’s commitment to these institutions. This investment is expected to have a lasting impact, not only on the athletic programs but also on the broader campus communities.

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Albany, GA – Albany State University Athletics proudly announces that the Golden Rams football team will participate in the Inaugural Frederick Douglass HBCU Football Classic. The game will take place on September 21, 2024, in Rochester, New York, marking this a significant milestone for both teams and the HBCU community. Kickoff is slated for 1 pm at the Rochester Community Sports Complex.

The Golden Rams are set to take on Central State University in a highly anticipated game, showcasing talent and tradition. This inaugural event honors the legacy of Frederick Douglass and celebrates the rich history and culture of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

“This is an incredible opportunity for our student-athletes and the entire Albany State community,” said Dr. Kristene Kelly, Director of Athletics. “Participating in such an event not only showcases our football team but also reinforces our commitment to excellence and tradition in HBCU athletics. It’s a perfect example of #CreatingLegacies.”

There are several events happening during the Classic, such as the Battle of the Bands 5^th Quarter, which will showcase our very own Marching Rams Show Band. Tickets for the Frederick Douglass HBCU Football Classic are currently available for $25. Fans are encouraged to buy their tickets early to ensure they don’t miss out on this historic event.

About the Frederick Douglass HBCU Football Classic

Join us on Saturday, September 21, 2024, for the first annual Frederick Douglass HBCU Football Classic — Weekend of Hope in ROCHESTER, NEW YORK.

This event celebrates the legacy of Frederick Douglass and the rich history of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The inaugural Frederick Douglass HBCU Football Classic represents a pioneering mission to nurture community engagement and bolster public safety in Rochester.

Get ready for a thrilling game between two HBCU Football rivals, Battle of the Bands, delicious food, live music, and so much more.

Come out and support this historic Rochester, New York event while enjoying the African American HBCU EXPERIENCE! Teams will be announced on Friday, July 26, 2024.

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Dr. Kelly was informed of her honor via her friend and former colleague at Saint Augustine’s University, Anthony Jeffries.

“I am honored and incredibly humbled to be selected for the JCSU Athletics Hall of Fame,” says Dr. Kelly. “I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that have shaped my journey, and I share this honor with everyone who has been a part of it. This recognition is a testament to the incredible support system at JCSU and beyond.”

Other inductees include Ronnie Armstrong (Football), Rochelle Bodie (Basketball), Leford Green (Track & Field), Anthony Holloman (Football), Carl Lyles (Football), Roosevelt McGruder, LaTondra Morrow (Track & Field/Basketball), Benard Parker (Football), and Joi Surratt (Basketball).

Kelly, a St. Croix, USVI native, is currently the Director of Athletics at Albany State University. She boasts one of the most diverse resumes in college athletics, having served in various roles at all three NCAA divisions. Prior to her appointment at Albany State, she served as the Deputy Athletic Director for Internal Affairs/Senior Woman Administrator at Vanderbilt University, a Power 5 institution in the highly competitive Southeastern Conference (SEC). In addition to her time at Vanderbilt, she worked at Dartmouth College as the Senior Associate AD/SWA before being promoted to Executive Associate AD/SWA (2018-2020), Keene State College as Director of Athletics and Recreation (2016-2018), Saint Augustine’s University as Associate AD/SWA as well as Assistant Professor and Department Chair (2009-2016), and Johnson C. Smith University as Sports Information Director (2002-2009).

Dr. Kristene Kelly served as Sports Information Director at Johnson C. Smith University for six and a half years. During her tenure at her beloved alma mater, she earned many accolades, including being awarded the John Holley Sports Information Director of the Year award (2005), and becoming only the second female to receive that honor. She served in multiple leadership roles at her HBCU, the CIAA, and nationally on NCAA Division II committees. In fact, Kelly served as the Co-chair of the highly successful 2007 NCAA Division II Outdoor Track & Field Championships. Additionally, Kelly is a graduate of the NCAA’s Leadership Institute for Ethnic Minority Females (2007).

Kelly earned a bachelor’s degree in sports management and a bachelor’s degree in public relations from the university in 2000. She went on to receive her master’s degree in human performance and sports studies from the University of Tennessee and received her doctoral degree from the United States Sports Academy. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She has been married to Jonathan for twenty years, and together they have one son, Jonathan, Jr., a rising senior at Albany State University.

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ALBANY, Ga. — Georgia HBCU Albany State University and Director of Athletics, Dr. Kristene Kelly, has announced Akia Stanton to assume the women’s basketball head coaching duties for long-time coach Robert Skinner, effective June 1st.

ASU didn’t have to go far geographically to find the new veteran court general in Coach Stanton, who has been the Talladega College (Ala.) basketball coach, for the past two seasons and had already put the pieces in play to turn the Lady Tornado program around.

“Albany State University is excited to welcome Coach Akia Stanton as a member of the Golden Rams staff. Her coaching experience demonstrates a commitment to upholding a standard of excellence, consistent with ASU’s mission,” said ASU President, Marion Ross Fedrick. “Coach Stanton’s proven leadership and coaching skills embody the ram spirit. Our student-athletes will benefit from her guidance both on and off the court. We encourage those on campus and in the community to come out and cheer on Coach Stanton and the Lady Rams for a successful season ahead.”

The energetic and self-motivated new Lady Rams Head Coach brings eight years of experience directing three different HBCU programs, including Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference member Allen University along with two seasons as associate head coach of South Carolina State and three campaigns as assistant coach of her alma mater Paine College in Augusta, Georgia.

Stanton played for and later coached under current Paine College Director of Athletics Selina Kohn, who herself was a legendary basketball player at Albany State under Coach Skinner and previously served as the Lady Rams assistant coach.

“I’m thrilled to introduce Akia Stanton as our new head women’s basketball coach at Albany State,” stated Dr. Kelly. “A Georgia native and standout player at Paine College during their SIAC era under ASU legend Selina Kohn, who herself trained under the esteemed Coach Robert Skinner. Akia’s journey epitomizes #CreatingLegacies, and with her intimate knowledge of the SIAC and strong coaching foundation, I am confident she will guide our team to unparalleled success, leaving a lasting impact on our program.”

Stanton is no stranger to both success and building programs into successful HBCU teams on-and-off the court. In the last two seasons, Stanton guided Talladega College to a four-game improvement. The results-driven coach aims to build upon ASU’s 2023-24 campaign where the Lady Rams ran off a pair of wins before bowing out in the SIAC Tournament Quarterfinals.

“I would like to thank Dr. Marion Ross Fedrick, Dr. Kristene Kelly, and the search committee for their dedication and diligence throughout this process. I am honored and humbled to be the next head women’s basketball coach at Albany State University,” stressed Stanton. “I am committed to upholding the University’s values, as well as continuing the legacy and building on the foundation Coach Robert Skinner has already laid for this great institution. I am elated and ready to work with our student-athletes, staff, and supporters. I am grateful for this opportunity to lead such a wonderful group of young ladies.”

Prior to her stint as South Carolina State associate head coach, Stanton guided South Carolina HBCU Allen University (2018-20) to a 16-15 first-year record before she directed the program to its most victories in a season going 23-8 with a team, which featured 12 first-year freshmen. The head coach’s two squads also posted the highest team grade point average of 3.2, which is a staple of her team.

Coach Stanton’s first head coaching stop came at Jarvis Christian College where her teams again had the athletic department’s highest team GPA of 3.5 for four straight years, as well as student-athletes garnering both All-Conference and All-Academic honors. Most impressively is Stanton’s 100% graduation rate. 

While as an assistant coach at her alma mater Paine College, Stanton saw at least one of her student-athletes be voted All-Conference from 2011 through 2017. 

Under Paine College AD and then Head Coach Kohn, Stanton produced a collegiate playing career in both volleyball and basketball where she shined so bright, she earned a 2015 induction into the Lady Lions Hall of Fame. In basketball, Stanton helped Paine to back-to-back hoops SIAC titles in 2005 and 2006, and trips to the NCAA DII Tournament. She also recorded the second-best hitting percentage in DII for volleyball the in fall of 2006.

The Milledgeville, Georgia native started her career in athletics as a three-sport athlete at Baldwin High School and was the school’s only Regional winner in two years in a row in three different sports.

At home, Stanton is a proud mother of Laila and Amari.

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Four other people were injured in the shooting. All six victims were between 20 and 30 years of age. 

“We at Elleven 45 are profoundly affected by the recent tragic events. Our hearts go out to all those impacted, and we extend our deepest sympathies to the individuals and families who have suffered loss and injury. The safety and well-being of our patrons and staff have always been our paramount concern. To ensure a thorough investigation in cooperation with local law enforcement, we will be closing our doors today,” a statement from the club said Sunday. 

Creighton previously competed at fellow SIAC HBCU Benedict College before coming to Albany State. 

Albany State Director of Athletics Dr. Kristene Kelly posted about Creighton’s passing on X.

“We are heartbroken over the loss of Mari,” Kelly wrote. “What a beautiful soul. Our Albany State RAMily is devastated by this news. Our thoughts are with Mari’s loved ones.”

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Albany, GA – The Spring Game kicks off at 12 noon, and admission is free for all spectators. The Marching Rams Show Band along with the Cheerleaders will be in attendance. The game will also be streamed live on HBCU GameDay. Coliseum gates will open at 11 am, and parking is free. Please be mindful that the Spring 2024 Open House will also take place, so it’s advisable to arrive early to secure your spot. Saturday’s game wraps up the spring season during which the Golden Rams participated in 14 practices. 

Head Coach Quinn Gray is excited about Saturday’s game, stating: 

“Our student-athletes have put in tremendous work and dedication during our winter conditioning, and they have done a great job of transitioning that to the practice field throughout the spring season. They have shown flashes of being a good football team, and they are looking forward to displaying that in front of family and friends during this weekend’s Blue and Gold Game, which is the culmination of the spring season. As a coach, you look forward to the end of spring so that you can have a chance to see it all come together in a game-type situation with referees and fans, to observe how your team handles certain situations. So, this is an exciting week for our program and our university, and we are definitely looking forward to having a good time this weekend in an effort to #MoveTheNeedle!” 

ASU posted a 6-5 record this past season, including 6-2 in SIAC play to earn a berth in the SIAC Football Championship game. The Golden Rams concluded the 2023 campaign ranked eighth in the final 2023 HBCU Division II Coaches Poll powered by BOXTOROW. 

Season ticket renewals for the Albany State 2024 football season are currently active. Fans may visit or call Al McKendrick at (229) 500-2852 to renew for the upcoming fall. The priority deadline for renewals is May 1st. 

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The Spring Game kicks off at noon, and admission is free for all spectators. The Marching Rams Show Band along with the Cheerleaders will be in attendance. Parking is FREE.

Please be mindful that the Spring 2024 Open House will also take place, so arriving early is advisable to secure your spot. Saturday’s game wraps up the spring season during which the Golden Rams participated in 14 practices.

Second-year head coach Quinn Gray is eager to take his team through the ranks.  There are high expectations for the Golden Rams as the SIAC appears to be a wide-open race for 2024.  With several new faces leading programs and key departures, including SIAC Champion head coach Chennis Berry from Benedict College, it could be just the opening ASU needs. 

It will be a fun-filled broadcast with in-game fan interviews.  HBCU Gameday will talk with students, fans, and alumni all over the stadium during the game. We’ll also speak live with Albany State Director of Athletics Dr. Kristine Kelly.  

Postgame, we plan to speak with head coach Quinn Gray and his players about the Spring Game.

HBCU Gameday reporter Vaughn Wilson will be on the play-by-play and correspondent Mekhi Yant will provide color commentary. HBCU Gameday sideline reporter Laila Jade will be in the crowd doing the live interviews throughout the event.

Quinn Gray expressed his excitement for Saturday’s game, stating: 

“Our student-athletes have put in tremendous work and dedication during our winter conditioning, and they have done a great job of transitioning that to the practice field throughout the spring season. They have shown flashes of being a good football team, and they are looking forward to displaying that in front of family and friends during this weekend’s Blue and Gold Game, which is the culmination of the spring season. As a coach, you look forward to the end of spring so that you can have a chance to see it all come together in a game-type situation with referees and fans, to observe how your team handles certain situations. So, this is an exciting week for our program and our university, and we are looking forward to having a good time this weekend to #MoveTheNeedle!” 

Albany State posted a 6-5 record this past season, including 6-2 in SIAC play to earn a berth in the SIAC Football Championship game. The Golden Rams concluded the 2023 campaign ranked eighth in the final 2023 HBCU Division II Coaches Poll powered by BOXTOROW. 

WATCH THE ALBANY STATE SPRING GAME HERE:

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The Colts Wire platform by USA Today referred to Stewart as a “priority in-house free agent,” calling the three-year deal, $39 million deal “a vital contract for (General Manager) Chris Ballard to get done this offseason.

Since being drafted by the Colts with the 144th pick in the 2017 NFL Draft,  Stewart has amassed 280 tackles, nine sacks, 35 quarterback hits, and a forced fumble.

In 2019, Stewart had 30 total tackles (five for a loss) with 3.0 sacks, five quarterback hits, and one pass defended, establishing himself as one of the top up-and-coming interior defenders in the league. He carried that momentum into the 2020 season where he earned a 3-year, $30 million contract extension to stay with the Indianapolis Colts.

His real value might have been best displayed by his absence in 2023 when he was suspended for six games during the regular season. Kevin Hickey of Colts Wire says “The suspension may have helped his stock in terms of getting a new contract.”

During the six-game stretch without Grover Stewart, the Colts allowed 153 rushing yards per game. In the 11 games he played in, that number dropped to 107.9 rushing yards per game allowed.

The 30-year-old affectionately known as “Big Grove” is known as an elite NFL run-stopper who came into the 2024 NFL free agency period ranked 58th on Pro Football Talk’s top 100 free agents.

In December of 2016, Stewart received his Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Albany State. On the field, Grover Stewart was named first-team SIAC All-Conference for all four years. During his senior season, Stewart recorded 37 tackles (26 solos), 12 tackles for a loss of 61 yards, and 7.5 sacks.

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Playing quarterback for Billy Joe in the legendary Gulf Coast Offense required Gray and his counterparts to do more than just hand off the ball or put it in the air.  Now the head coach at Albany State University, Gray recalled how his time playing for Joe helped prepare him for his career as a coach. 

“Obviously as a quarterback at Florida A&M, you had to know the offense inside out. So you had to know everything about what the defense was trying to do to you and also know our offense in and out because you called all the plays,” Gray said in an exclusive interview with HBCU Gameday.

“Billy Joe gave you the game plan during the week and on Friday he made sure that we were good to go and Saturday was up to you to go out there and win those games. Although he may have given you some insight during the game and from some suggestions, but Coach Joe relied on us to know what we were doing out there and take what the defense was giving us to go out and call plays against 34, 35 year old defensive coordinators that we were 19, 20, 21 year old quarterbacks.So that part of the game helped me and my counterparts – Pat Bonner, Oteman Sampson, Ja’Juan Seider – guys like that go out and and defeat some formidable foes back in in that time.”

Playing quarterback at FAMU at that time also meant fierce competition. Gray was part of a quarterback room that was as deep and talented as any HBCU or FCS squad from 1997 through 2001. Gray started his career as a backup to Sampson as a freshman, then took a back seat to Pat Bonner in 1998 as the offense continued to put up prolific numbers. He earned his stripes as a starter in 1999 before an injury vaulted Seider, currently the offensive coordinator at Penn State, into the starting role. Had Gray come along now, the transfer portal might have been an option. But Gray says he never felt compelled to leave the program.

“You know, what kept me at FAMU was I always felt like I got a fair shot. Whether I performed well enough to earn the spot position that was all up to me. There was never a time where I felt like I was being mistreated. There was never a time where I felt like I wasn’t given the fair shot to win the starting position.”

Quinn Gray went on to lead FAMU to MEAC titles in 2000 and 2001 before going on to an NFL career with the Jacksonville Jaguars. 

Now heading into his second season at Albany State, Gray says he still draws on his experience as a college quarterback making adjustments in several areas – including recruiting. 

We got to be able to adjust the minds of these kids and understand what their thought process is. You got kids that you make offer to – you know, you offer scholarships –  but sometimes they want bigger and bigger.  And, you know, as a coach, that bigger isn’t coming. But they choose to wait. And as a coach, what do you do? Do you wait for them to get that disappointing news and say, okay, coach, I’ll come? Or do you go out and find somebody who would appreciate that opportunity a lot sooner than somebody that waiting on.

“So, the ever-changing landscape of college football –  you have to be able to adjust to it and make the necessary changes when it comes to recruiting and dealing with the portal.” 

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Jackson State leads the SWAC with nearly 30k. That’s an impressive number, but it is a significant drop from its 2022 number. Norfolk State got a slight bump as it led the MEAC. North Carolina A&T got another sellout it’s first season in the CAA.

Here are the numbers of attendance at each HBCU homecoming game. All numbers were taken from official box scores from each school’s athletic website.

MEAC

Norfolk State-24,976

South Carolina State-22,269

North Carolina Central-13,626

Howard-7,684

Delaware State-6,300

Morgan State-Canceled

SWAC

Jackson State-30,947

Alabama A&M-26,391

Florida A&M-22,338

Southern-21,492

Alcorn State-21,012

Alabama State-17,995

Prairie View A&M-14,224

Arkansas-Pine Bluff-13,469

Bethune-Cookman-9,458

Mississippi Valley State-8,752

Grambling State-8,657

Texas Southern-6,352

CAA

North Carolina A&T-21,500

Hampton-13,811

CIAA

Winston-Salem State-8,200

Virginia Union-5,250

Shaw-5,022

Livingstone – 4,501

Bowie State-4,395

St. Augustine’s-3,719

Fayetteville State-3,680

Elizabeth City State-3,579

Johnson C. Smith-3,452

Virginia State-3,409

Lincoln (PA)-2,117

Bluefield State-N/A

SIAC

Tuskegee-31,726

Clark Atlanta-19,597

Savannah State-12,723

Fort Valley State-12,113

Morehouse-10,213

Benedict-8,589

Albany State-8,371

Kentucky State-2,898

Edward Waters-2,472

Lane-1,753

Allen-905

Central State-N/A

Miles-N/A

Other

Tennessee State-13,975

West Virginia State-3,954

Lincoln (MO)-3,333

Virginia University-Lynchburg-1,753

Florida Memorial-1,200

Langston-N/A

The post HBCU Homecoming 2023 Attendance Tracker appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Albany State started the day on the outside looking-in at the SIAC championship picture. It handled its business by knocking off Fort Valley State 13-7, giving it a 6-2 SIAC record to match its inter-state rival. It then got some help from Miles College as it defeated Tuskegee University at home, creating a four-way tie for second place. 

Albany State will face the undefeated Benedict College Tigers (8-0) at Lakewood Stadium on November 11 at 1 p.m. ET.

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Quarterback David Wright again led the offense throwing for 295 yards and three touchdowns while junior WR Armone Harris set a season-high catching 8 passes for 136 yards and two touchdowns. Wright has now thrown for over 2,300 yards this season with 13 TDs in the air and three on the ground.

Fellow junior slot WR Jamal Jones had a terrific game as well leading the team with a season-high 10 receptions for 56 yards and a 24-yard rushing touchdown that put Allen up 32-21 midway through the fourth. Leading the rushing attack was junior RB Beau Herrington with 72 yards and a score while Wright and freshman RB Alan Riggins also combined for 40 yards and two scores on the ground.

Allen got on the board early in the first quarter with an 18-yard pass from Wright to Harris as the Yellow Jackets took advantage of an ASU turnover in their own end to go up 6-0. Allen then made it 12-0 with Harris’ second touchdown of the game from Wright, this one a stellar 10-yard one-handed grab. After another Albany turnover, Allen came back and made them pay as Herrington rushed it in from 6 yards out to put Allen up 18-0 midway through the second quarter.

The Rams, however, would not go away as they came right back with two consecutive touchdowns to climb to within four points at 18-14 with 9 minutes to play in the half. Allen then began the third quarter with a 24-yard rushing TD from Wright to extend their lead back to 11 at 25-14. Then, to begin the fourth quarter, Albany used one play to get back to within four as ASU’s WR ran 80 yards down the sideline for the score to get to 25-21. 

However, the Jackets came storming back with a quick 5-play 47-yard drive ending with a Jones 24-yard jet sweep rushing score to put AU back up 11 at 32-21 with 12 minutes to play. AU would hold the Rams scoreless over almost the rest of the quarter before adding an insurance touchdown of their own when Riggins rushed it in from 7 yards out that gave Allen an insurmountable 39-21 advantage. ASU would add a late score as time expired.

Allen University totaled more first downs and rushing yards than Albany State as well overall.

Defensively, Linebacker Kayleb Pierce led Allen with 9 tackles (3 solo) and 1.5 tackles-for-loss while senior safety Diquan Brown led with 6 solo tackles and 7 overall. Cornerbacks Dahlil Wilkins and Kevin Graham also combined for 11 tackles while freshman nose guard Jaheim Borden recorded 5 tackles, 2 TFL, and 1.5 sacks with a QB hurry. Leading with two sacks was defensive end Artavon Edmond while DT Marques Sherman had a 12-yard interception return along with 3 tackles and a sack. LBs MC Henderson and Gary Bourrage also combined for eight tackles and 2 TFLs.

AU is now 4-1 in the conference while ASU falls to 4-3 overall and received their first conference loss (4-1) from the Yellow Jackets.

Allen University will next go on the road next Saturday, Oct. 21 to face #6 Miles College in Alabama at 2 PM.

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His final title team at ASU went 11-1 in 1997, including the lone playoff win of his career.

Albany State University posted a statement concerning Smith’s passing.

“On behalf of President Marion Ross Fedrick, Albany State University is deeply saddened to share the passing of former ASU football and baseball Coach Hampton Smith. We extend our sincerest condolences to his family and friends.”

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Albany State University coach Quinn Gray has the opportunity to start his head coaching career with a win and end Wingate University’s winning streak against HBCUs.

Wingate has celebrated 19 straight victories over HBCUs, including four last year by knocking off Benedict and Virginia Union in the playoffs after beating Shaw and CIAA champion Fayetteville State in the regular season. The last time Wingate was defeated by an HBCU was by St. Augustine in 2012.

This season will be the fourth time that both schools have matched up in their history. The first game was in 2010 when Albany State edged past Wingate 30-28. In 2011, Albany State defeated Wingate 49-28. The last game was in 2012 when Wingate beat Albany State 37-9 one week after losing to SAU.

Albany State is coming off a solid 7-3 record with six players named to the 2023 ALL-SIAC Preseason Team. The offensive is packing fire power with returning offensive lineman Josh Simon, running back Kam Ward and quarterback Dionte Bonneau. The defense will bring back heavy hitters with cornerback Jaree Turner and defensive lineman Jalen Pugh. On special teams, Rashad Jordan will be back returning punts.

Simon, Ward and Bonneau will have to live up to their preseason honors against Wingate’s 2023 ALL-SAC Preseason defensive players, linebacker Jaquan Edwards, defensive lineman Marquise Fleming and defensive backs Tre Morrison and Jaheim Mullen. They have played a huge role in Wingate ranking second in Division II on average yards allowed with 227.6 yards per game. Wingate’s strength is their defense, but Albany State averaged 29.7 points per game and 359.2 yards of offense per game, so they’re capable of putting up numbers against a strong defense.

Coach Gray has the tough task of game planning against Wingate’s tough defensive unit. His offensive mind and talented players will hope to overcome a tough Wingate’s defense. It would be a statement win for both Albany State and St. Aug.

Albany State will get its shot to do what other HBCUs couldn’t and finally end Wingate’s reign. They have to do it on the road when they travel to Irwin Belk Stadium. The game is set for Thursday, Aug 31 but sources tell HBCU Gameday there has been a request to move the game back due to Hurricane Idalia.

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Nearby Valdosta State University AD Herb Reinhard spoke with WALB.com about the precautions his program is taking to deal with the intense Georgia heat.

Albany State football is expected to contend for the SIAC title as the team was picked to finish second in the league behind defending champion  Benedict College. ASU is set to make its debut under former Florida A&M star and NFL quarterback Quinn Gray on August 31 as it takes on perennial playoff program Wingate. 

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During her two seasons as AD at Division III Keene State, she had six teams advance to the NCAA postseason, including the 2016-17 men’s basketball team that advanced to the Elite Eight. Nearly 200 student-athletes were recognized as Little East Conference All-Academic performers during her tenure as well. While at Dartmouth College as the Senior Associate AD/SWA before being promoted to Executive Associate AD/SWA, Kelly was responsible for oversight of all of Dartmouth’s 35 varsity sports at the NCAA Division I level prior to heading to the SEC school.

Kelly also has significant expertise in NCAA compliance, Title IX, athletic fundraising, and managing budgets exceeding $2 million. Notably, she also oversaw a program that achieved a national championship, demonstrating her expertise and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Kelly replaces Tony Duckworth, who was let go following a controversial offer from the football program to quarterback Marcus Stokes, earlier this year. 

“Dr. Kelly presents notable expertise, vision, and passion for athletics and student success which makes her an excellent fit for the university,” President Marion Ross Fedrick said. “With the upcoming athletic season, I look forward to her strategic initiatives that will showcase the excellence at ASU both on the field and in the classroom.”

Originally from St. Croix, United States Virgin Islands, Kelly is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

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“When I played, the things that my college did to promote me meant the world to me,” Gray said. “While my concentration was on being a better player, when I would see a poster or a promo or a game program that included me it made my chest stick out a little more. I want that for my players as well. While I don’t want them concentrating on things like that, if they are deserving, I want us to do everything within our power to promote them.”

With the Golden Rams’ 2023 posters and schedule cards, Gray turned to an old friend from college to help make his vision come to fruition. He called in a favor from another former FAMU football player, Vaughn Wilson. Wilson owns Mega Ace Media and is a former sports information director (SID) at FAMU and a contributor to HBCU Gameday. Wilson also spent time as the interim SID at Albany State at the request of assistant director of Athletics Dr. Darlene Moore. Wilson’s media team would visit Albany for a special shoot with the six players Gray chose to be on the cover of the poster.

Collaborating on the schedule cards, Gray and Wilson decided to mix up the schedule cards and make six versions, one with each of the players Gray had selected to be the cover guys. Rashad Jordan, Ralph Lovette, Jalen Mitchell, Marlon Pollack, Josh Simon, and Jaree Turner got the opportunity to represent the blue and gold on Gray’s first poster and schedule cards as head coach of the Golden Rams.

It’s not common for a D-II school to have this much effort put into schedule cards and posters, but Wilson said it’s something that didn’t take much thought. “If it can be done at other larger schools, it can be done at the D-II level,” Wilson said. “It just takes a little thought and planning. While working at ASU for the year I did, I took to the student-athletes. Several of the current team members still remember me and are very cordial to me. It was something that we could do to promote the kids, then I was all for it.”

Gray is preparing for his first season as head coach of the Golden Rams with a tough SIAC schedule to play. With some of the members of the 2021 SIAC championship team returning as seniors, he will have a mixture of returnees with a good 2023 recruiting class to begin the trek to unseat Benedict College who won the 2022 SIAC Championship.

“It’s what you get into coaching for. Building a program back is its own unique challenge. If you go to a program that hasn’t been on the winning end, it’s one job. But, to build back a program that has had the success of Albany State over the years, it’s a unique monster that we are prepared to undertake,” Gray said.

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NEW YORK (March 29, 2023) — Following an incredible first year with over 35,000 fans in attendance, the Toyota HBCU New York Classic Presented by Walmart returns to MetLife Stadium on Saturday, September 16, 2023. Celebrating all the tradition and pageantry of the HBCU game day experience, the event culminates with an epic match-up between Morehouse College and Albany State University. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. ET. The HBCU NY Classic game will be broadcasted live on CNBC and simultaneously streamed on the Peacock Network and the NBC Sports App. Tickets go on sale April 10, 2023 at www.hbcunyclassic.com.

“MetLife Stadium is honored to host the second annual HBCU New York Classic,” said Ron VanDeVeen, President and CEO of MetLife Stadium. “HBCU New York Classic is an outstanding event and we look forward to welcoming Morehouse College, Albany State University and thousands of HBCU alumni and fans to our stadium this September.”

Known as the world’s largest HBCU Homecoming and the unofficial kickoff event of HBCU Homecoming week, fans and alumni from the 107 HBCUs across the country are expected to attend. The game’s halftime show will include a celebration of the 50th anniversary of Hip Hop featuring surprise guests, plus spectacular drumline performances and a battle of the bands between participating schools. Additional performances and a full schedule of events will be announced in the coming weeks.

“We are thrilled by the fan support and excitement around the HBCU New York Classic. Football fans, alumni and students come out to enjoy the action on the field, and the unique experience and camaraderie of the world’s largest HBCU Homecoming,” said President & CEO of Sports Eleven05 Albert Williams. 

“MetLife Stadium is the perfect venue for this one-of-a-kind event.”

Van Wagner is the exclusive sponsorship sales partner for the Toyota HBCU New York Classic presented by Walmart. For the latest details and ticket information, go to hbcunyclassic.com or follow along on Instagram and Twitter.

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SAVANNAH, GA (February 27, 2023) — The 2023 TIAA SIAC Basketball Tournament presented by Cricket Wireless brought a few upsets to the second opening round on Monday featuring a pair of men’s and women’s matchups at Savannah State University. Check out the recaps from the third day of SIAC Hoops action inside of Tiger Arena.

Game 6 (Men)
#4E (Albany State), 70 v. Kentucky State, 83
Box Score

Kentucky State opened the second round of the 2023 TIAA SIAC Basketball Championship defeating Albany State 83-70 in a midday contest inside the Tiger Arena. Kentucky State’s guard Kong led all scorers with 21 points to help the Breds survive another day with a win over Albany State in the second opening round of matchups. Kong shot 100% from the field(8-of-8), three-point line(2-of-2), and at the free-throw line(3-of-3).

The Golden Rams went 3-of-4 from the field to take a 12-10 lead at 14:49 in the first half. A layup by Shamon Mosley led to an 11-2 run by Kentucky State at 9:15 in the first half. The Thorobreds held a 37-31 lead over the Golden Rams going into halftime shooting a perfect 100% from the free-throw line. Kentucky State was dominant in the paint scoring 20 points holding the lead for a full 14:00 minutes in the first half. 

In the second half, Albany State went on a nine-point run with 11:30 remaining in the contest. The Golden Rams shot 42.9 percent (15-of-35) from the field, including 50 percent (5-of-10) from beyond the arc. The Golden Rams were led by Malik Parker with 19 points and three rebounds. SIAC Freshman of the Year Terin Wofford added 10 points and three boards.

Up Next: Kentucky State will head to the quarterfinals, where they will play #1W Tuskegee on Wednesday, March 1 at 5 p.m.

Game 7 (Men)
#4W (Lane), 73 v. #5E (Clark Atlanta), 61
Box Score

The Dragons jumped on Clark Atlanta early when Justin Sylver drilled a pull up jumper just eight seconds into the game. Lane would lead from tip-off to final whistle as the margin grew to as many as 20 points en route to a 73-61 win over the Panthers.
 
Kelvin Allen led all scorers with 19 points while pulling in six rebounds. Sylver finished with 14 points and six boards while Maximillion Bell chipped in 11 points. Jesse Payne had 10 points to go along with four steals and three assists.

Clark Atlanta’s  Justin Longstreet and  Gwarren Douglas each added 13 points shooting over 60 percent from the free-throw line.
 
Up Next: Lane moves on to the quarterfinals where they will take on Morehouse College on Wednesday, March 1 at 7:30 p.m.

Game 8 (Women)
#4E (Allen), 68 v. #5W (Central State), 79
Box Score

#5W Central State toppled the #4E Allen 79-68 in the women’s basketball second round of the 2023 TIAA SIAC Basketball Tournament presented by Cricket at Savannah State on Monday.
 
Central State had four players score in double figures led by SIAC First-Team All-Conference honoree, Kailyn Nash, with a double-double 16 points and 10 rebounds. Dashanti Miller added 14 points and grabbed 17 rebounds while Naomi Shorts finished with 15 points, four assists, and three rebounds. Laurene Tere contributed 13 points, six board, and two assists in the win.

Allen’s Keyshuna Fair, Destinee Jamison-Whitfield, and Ananda Mayhew scored 18, 12, and 11 points, respectively. Talayah Boxley grabbed nine rebounds for the Yellow Jackets.
 
Up Next: Central State punched their ticket to the quarterfinals and will advance to face #1W Tuskegee on Wednesday, March 1 at 12:00 p.m.

Game 9 (Women)
#4W (Lane), 53 v. #5E (Albany State), 50
Box Score

Brailyn Tate posted a double-double (14 points and 14 rebounds) and Kayla Simmons, SIAC All-Conference honoree, scored 18 points to lead the Dragons to a second-round victory over Albany State. The duo dominated in the paint as Lane outscored the Golden Rams 32-20 in that category. Simmons had a game-high 18 points while Tate scored 14 points and pulled in 14 rebounds.

The Dragons battled back in a close fourth quarter holding the Golden Rams at 11 points. In the final quarter, the Lane College Dragons shot 87.5 percent (7-of-8) from the free-throw line to push past Albany State in a 53-50 win.

During the close matchup, Milana Holmes of Albany State outscored all players with 23 points while adding nine rebounds. Ka’Shay Hankerson and Kayla Milner each added eight points. Despite the Golden Rams success in converting 25 of 26 of Lane’s turnovers into points, they came up short as Lane’s final three free-throws sealed their win.

Up Next: The Dragons advance to the quarterfinals where they will face Clark Atlanta on Wednesday, March 1, at 2:30 p.m.

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Tony Duckworth announced on Friday that his time as AD at Albany State University ended on Feb. 12. ASU has yet to release a statement on the change.

His statement reads –  in part:

“When I arrived in Albany on January 2, 2020, I knew this would be the most challenging undertaking of my twenty-seven vear career in college athletics. I have worked tirelessly in this role, and I am proud of what we accomplished during my three plus years,” Duckworth wrote.

“While I have had detractors during my tenure, I have also met a number of amazing people. I have enjoyed supporting the student-athletes in their training and competition. I would like to acknowledge the coaches and staff for our collective effort in enhancing the student-athlete experience.”

Duckworth went on to list his accomplishments as AD. One not listed was leading a prompt and successful search for a head coach after Gabe Gardina accepted a position as head coach at Charleston Southern in late November 2022. The search resulted in the hiring of Quinn Gray a few weeks later, and he was introduced as head coach in January.

Shortly after he was announced as head coach, Quinn Gray and his staff offered Marcus Stokes, a four-star quarterback, a scholarship. Stokes, who his white, was released from his scholarship offer from the University of Florida after posting a video of him saying the “N-word” as he recited rap lyrics.

ASU was the first school to offer Stokes after he was released from Florida. Alabama A&M, an HBCU in the SWAC, ultimately offered him as well. However, blowback on social media was swift and just days after news of Stokes’ offer from ASU surfaced, Gray issued an open letter apologizing to ASU President Marion Ross Fedrick for the offer.

A source tells HBCU Gameday that President Fedrick faced pressure from alumni to remove Duckworth from his post after the offer as he had knowledge of the offer. Duckworth is white.

HBCU Gameday has reached out to Tony Duckworth, awaiting a response. 

“I am unsure of my next position as enter free agency, I am excited to explore opportunities both inside intercollegiate athletics and outside of an industry have worked for thirty vears.”

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In Quinn Gray’s first recruiting class, the Albany State Golden Rams received national letters of intent from 15 high school student-athletes and added 7 mid-year transfers since he arrived. 

Albany State is expecting to receive additional letters of intent throughout the day.  Quinn Gray, Sr. was named the 14th head football coach for the Golden Rams on December 19, 2022.

“Today has been a great day for the Golden Rams.” said head coach Quinn Gray.

“National Signing Day is one of those days that you think you’re going to have a great day until you don’t, so you sit around waiting and watching your email to see if and when 17/18-year-old kids made the decision to choose your institution.  Luckily, we got verbal commitments from several recruits that we sent NLIs to.  We are excited about this group of transfers and HS recruits.  I’m excited to add guys that can make plays with the ball, cover, stop the run, open up holes and protect the QB.  I can’t wait to get the younger guys on campus and get started with spring practice with the guys that are already on campus.  My staff did a tremendous job of putting together a great class.  The job they have done over these last three weeks has been amazing.  We are excited for what’s ahead and ready to Be RAMbunctious and ALLIN!”

Quinn Gray Albany State head coach

Below is a list of the Albany State Golden Rams National Signing Day Signees and Mid-Year Transfers:

National Signing Day Signees

Matteo Davis is a 6’0 225 defensive tackle from Duncan U. Fletcher High School    in Neptune Beach, FL.  Matteo was named the Team’s MVP and was the sack leader for NW Florida.

Kevin Dunbar, Jr is 6’1 290 nose tackle from Dillard High School in Fort Lauderdale, FL.  Kevin had 43 tackles and 5.5 sacks. 

Jhace Edwards is a 6’1 225 bandit from Fleming Island High School in Fleming Island, FL.  Jhace was named to the All State Defensive Team and was a 2021 Jacksonville Jaguars Top 25 All Prep Class.

Tyrell Gainey is a 6’1 175 athlete from Wekiva High School in Apopka, FL.  Tyrell had 19 touchdowns and 1,596 receiving yards.  Tyrell also had 4 interceptions.

Monte Gooden is a 5’8 170 running back from Douglas County High School in Douglasville, GA.  Monte was named 1^st Team All Region and voted Specialist of the Year in 2022.

David Hogan in a 5’9 155 wide receiver and corner back from Lincoln High School in Tallahassee, FL.

Kieren Jackson is a 5’10 170 wide receiver from Mandarin High School in Jacksonville, FL.  Kieren had 16 touchdowns and 1,349 all-purpose yards.

DeVontae James is a 5’10 180 safety from Terrell County High School in Dawson, GA.  DeVontae is a 2 time Region Player of the Year as well as 2 time All State.

Dereko McCray, Jr. is a 6’3 175 cornerback from Lincoln High School in Tallahassee, FL.

Zxa’Myir Tyhlia Pelissier is a 6’4 305 offensive lineman from Dillard High School in Fort Lauderdale, FL.

Sincere Rodriquez is a 5’10 190 running back from Stranahan High School in Fort Lauderdale, FL.  Sincere rushed for 1,050 yards and was named the BCAA Allstar Game MVP.

Tyrone Sapp is a 6’4 325 offensive lineman from Dr. Phillips High School in Orlando, FL.  Tyrone was a 4-year letterman and was named as one of Central Florida Top Offensive Lineman.

Cameron Watts is a 5’9 170 wide receiver from Sandy Creek High School in Tyrone, GA.  Cameron was named the Bleacher Report Iron Man of the Year.  Cameron was also named the Region 5 Athlete of the Year.

De’Avary Weeks is a 6’3 245 defensive end from Riverside High School in Jacksonville, FL.  De’Avary was named to the All Gateway Conference 1^st Team.

Dmitry L. Wells is a 6’1 180 safety from Langston High School in Fairburn, GA.  Dmitry compiled 70 tackles and 4 interceptions as he led his team to the 2022 6A state championship.

Mid-Year Transfers

Johntavious Bonner – Defensive Back – Youngstown State University 
Devin Dorsey – Wide Reciever – Miami University                               
Robert Floyd – Running Back – Colorado State University                  
KyJuan Herndon – Running Back – Copiah Lincoln CC                             
Isaiah Knowles – Quarterback –  Naval Academy                                  
Maurice McDonald – Linebacker – Tennessee State University                
Ahman Ross – Safety – Florida Atlantic University                 

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Let me start with a humble apology. An apology for not honoring the tradition and history of ASU and for letting many of you down.

I didn’t uphold the Ramily standard that I know you expect. Please know that my decision to speak with a student that did not meet your expectations was unacceptable. I only wanted the best for our team, athletes, and institution when I invited the student to visit ASU. As I say to our players, “there is a consequence to every action.” The consequences of my actions brought pain to our University. I was trying to help a student get back in competition, and in my haste, I did not consider the impact the decision would have on all of you. Frankly, it wasn’t my place to use ASU as the platform for redemption in this case. I regret that I used flawed judgment. If given the opportunity, I will do better.

ASU expects excellence. The president has made it clear that my actions did not meet that standard. It was never my intent to misrepresent what ASU stands for nor to ignore the rich history of this institution. I am fully committed to the University’s mission of supporting academic excellence and student success.

Being accepted into the Ramily is something that you have to earn. The Ramily embodies the spirit, authenticity, and love forged from the toil of giants before me. My actions caused you to question my commitment to our institution and our ancestors. As the consequences go, I hope to find a way back into the Ramily.

Without a doubt, I will be all in. Go Rams.

Marcus Stokes posted a video in November of him rapping the N-word in lyrics to a rap song. Stokes later apologized for the video “hurtful and offensive to many people.” Florida, however, still rescinded his scholarship offer. Other schools – primarily of the Power Five variety – halted their recruitment as well. 

Albany State offered him first, then Alabama A&M followed up with an offer of its own later in the week. 

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Albany State came into the mix recently, with Stokes tweeting that he was “Blessed to receive my first HBCU offer to play at Albany State University!” 

That offer comes as Albany State, which competes in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, transitions to a new head coach in former Florida A&M legend and Jacksonville Jaguar quarterback Quinn Gray.

Gray was hired in December and introduced earlier this week. A former record-setting quarterback himself, Gray spent last season as an offensive analyst at the University of Memphis. Memphis was one of dozens of schools that offered Marcus Stokes prior to his commitment to Florida.

Albany State isn’t the only D2 school eyeing the talented passer, however. Stokes also reported an offer from West Florida. 

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University President Dr. Marion Fedrick rushed from another meeting to be sure she was present.  Director of Athletics Tony Duckworth moderated the event.  Alumni, boosters and former players were all on one accord that Quinn Gray had their support.

Gray’s wife Shemeka was stunning in her blue dress with gold trim, while Gray’s son and mother also attended the press conference.  All of the visuals set the tone for an exciting press conference.

Gray addressed the packed-out Lovett Hall in what I could only describe as “Obama-esque.”  He was methodical in detailing his experiences and how they’ve prepared him for the job.  “Being a coordinator at Florida A&M, an assistant coach at Alcorn, a high school head coach and an analyst at a Power Five school (Memphis), it prepared me from all angles to be right here today,” Gray said.  “I thought there was no way a fan base could be as passionate as FAMU, but over these last three weeks, I realize that the Albany State fans are right there.  It might be 1A and 1B,” Gray said with his patented smile.

Quinn Gray went into the history of ASU coaches and named those who preceded him.  He ended the list with former ASU coach Gabe Giardina.  “Gabe did a great job here.  It opened the door for him to move on to another position, but that brought the opportunity for me to be here,” Gray said.

In his address, he talked about former greats and welcomed them back to the fold.  He said he wanted to engage other former players and that they were always welcome because he respected the history of ASU football and those that laid the groundwork for the successes the Golden Rams have in winning conference and national championships.

He preached unity.  “When I was at my previous job, I realized that those schools have a lot of money.  Pretty much everything we asked for was provided for us coaches and the players.  I came from the HBCU realm where we had to earn everything we got.  I want to ensure that my players attack the classroom just like we attack on the field. We’re going to start fast in the classroom and if they need help, we’ll make sure we get them that help.  It will be a total effort in making sure these young me are able to be successful on and off the field,” Gray said.

Gray is obviously focused on the hot points that are important to the HBCU family.  Playing four years at FAMU before embarking on his professional career, Gray has been in the culture from the player standpoint.  As a coordinator at FAMU and an assistant at Alcorn State, Gray has seen coaching from different angles.  When you add in his experience at the FBS level at a Power Five school, he has all the ingredients to possibly be just what Albany State ordered.  On this day, for the sake of HBCUs, he was what the culture needed.

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Gray was named the Black College Offensive Player of the Year and went on to play in the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the Jacksonville Jaguars.  He would play in the NFL Europe, where he led the Frankfurt Galaxy to the World Bowl in 2003.  He would then return to play with the Jaguars, backing up David Garrard and get some playing time during his career.

He left the NFL and went into coaching.  He has been the head coach at various high schools including Lincoln High School, an ESPN nationally-ranked high school team.

Gray was then brought back to coach at his alma mater under head coach Earl Holmes’ tenure.  Following that, Gray has coached at Alcorn State and most recently was an offensive analyst with the Memphis Tigers.

“I couldn’t be in a happier situation right now.  Coming from Dallas this past week with a bowl game, winning the First Responders Bowl, my very first bowl and my very first bowl win, said Gray.  “It’s been an awesome week-and-a-half.  It’s been truly a blessing.”

Gray was named head coach of the Albany State Golden Rams of the SIAC.  He replaces Gabe Giardina who secured an FCS head coaching job at Charleston Southern.  During his tenure, Giardina transformed the Golden Rams into SIAC Champions.  He also made an NCAA playoff appearance in 2021.

Quinn Gray is not afraid of expectations

Gray is well aware of the expectations of the Golden Ram family.  

“The fact that I come from a program with the same if not more history, the expectation is always to win.  Being that the HBCU scene is not new to me, being at FAMU where the expectations were high, if you didn’t meet those expectations you were going to understand it,” Gray said. “Going into Albany State knowing what Gabe has done in the past, obviously you try to replicate that and also put your touch on it and take the program to maybe an even higher level.”

“The expectation is what it is, but the expectation of myself is fairly high.  We’re going to go in there, I’m going to bring some surprises that some people may not know in terms of my staff.  There’s one guy that once things get settled and I’m able to announce these guys and all that good stuff, it’s going to be a big help to me and the Golden Ram family,” Quinn Gray said.

Albany State had a great year by most standards.  They finished 7-3 overall, but two conference loses, one to eventual SIAC champ Benedict College and one to arch-rival Fort Valley State left a sour taste at ASU to conclude the season.  Benedict took total control of the SIAC, but Gray understands the assignment. 

“Coach Chennis Berry (Benedict College) is doing a great job.  Actually we talk all the time.  My mom’s alma mater is Benedict and my dad went across the street to Allen. When he got the job and we talked several times and he told me he couldn’t afford me.    Chennis is an awesome dude, I’ve know him for a very long time and he’s done some great things with Benedict,” Gray said. 

 “We’re not going into there to show up.  We’re going to recruit our butts off.  We’ve already got some great recruits who’ve committed that will be coming in January and we’ve got some FBS talent that will be walking in those halls in January and we hope we can take this thing to another level and compete for the SIAC and ultimately the Division II national championship.” 

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“Albany State University is excited to welcome Coach Quinn Gray to the Golden Rams family. His experience in coaching and as a National Football League player and student-athlete has provided Coach Gray with the experience and passion to lead the Golden Rams Football team. As a previous admission, academic, and compliance liaison, he is also committed to academic excellence and student success. It’s important that our athletes feel comfortable following a leader that will help them build character and perseverance on and off the field of competition. Coach Gray will ensure that tradition continues. We are looking forward to another winning season under his direction,” said ASU President Marion Ross Fedrick.

Quinn Gray currently serves as the senior offensive analyst at the University of Memphis.  Prior to his tenure at Memphis, Gray served as the quarterback’s coach at Alcorn State University from 2020-2022.  He also served as the associate head coach, offensive coordinator, and quarterbacks coach at Florida A&M University (FAMU) from 2011-2014 and spent three seasons as head coach at Lincoln High School in Florida, producing nine Florida Athletic Coaches Association (FACA) All-District Players, including the 2019 Tallahassee Quarterback Club Offensive Player of the Year, Special Teams Player of the Year, and Academic Player of the Year.

Gray had a distinguished career as a professional football player.  He played six seasons as a quarterback in the National Football League for the Jacksonville Jaguars and Kansas City Chiefs and also played for the New York Sentinels in the United Football League.  In addition, Gray played for the Frankfurt Galaxy, whom he led to the 2003 World Bowl Championship in the NFL Europe League.

As a student-athlete at FAMU, Gray became the all-time leader in passing yards (7,378), pass attempts (1,113), pass completions (562), and touchdown passes (57).  He holds the single-game record for most pass attempts (65 vs. North Carolina A&T in ’01).

In 2020, Gray was inducted into the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Hall of Fame for his outstanding accomplishments as the quarterback at FAMU from 1997-2001. In 2020, he was inducted into the FAMU Sports Hall of Fame.

“Quinn Gray’s vision, diverse coaching experience, professional playing career, and distinguished HBCU intercollegiate career make him the perfect fit for ASU Football.  Coach Gray’s knowledge of football and desire to engage our alumni and fans while mentoring the football student-athletes will enable our program to continue its great tradition,” said ASU Athletics Director Tony Duckworth.

Gray is a native of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Health and Physical Education (’06) from FAMU. He is married to Shemeka Gray, and they have six children, Quine, Destiny, David, Quinn Jr., Ashton, and Londyn.

“ASU is a great place to be both academically and athletically.  It’s an honor to lead the football program and move the needle.  Coach Gabe did a great job here, and I look forward to taking the tradition here and continuing to move it forward,” said Gray.

Due to the holidays and Coach Gray’s responsibilities in the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl with Memphis Football, an on-campus press conference will be announced in early January.

“I would like to personally thank the advisory group for their involvement throughout the search process,” added Duckworth.  The search for the head football coach advisory group included the following individuals:

• Coach Mike White, Advisory Group Spokesman
• Mr. Antonio Leroy
• Dr. Terry Lindsay, VP of Student Affairs
• Ms. Jean Lynn
• Dr. Chinenye Ofodile, Faculty Athletics Representative 
• Mr. Tommy Sharpe
• Dr. Pastor Daniel Simmons
• Mr. Ron Wood

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Albany State University announced on Wednesday that Giardina has accepted the head coaching gig at Charleston Southern University.

“We would like to thank Coach G. and his family for the tremendous care they took with each student-athlete while assisting them in pursuing their full athletic and academic potential”, said President, Dr. Marion Ross Fedrick. “The passion that he and his family have, not only for football, but the success of our students, is beyond compare. They have left their mark on our institution and will always be valued members of the Ramily.”

Giardina’s five-year tenure at Albany State was a successful one. He led the program to an overall record of 37-17, including an SIAC title and NCAA playoff berth during the 2021 season. 

“Coach G. has been an outstanding leader of our football program. We appreciate all he has done to build on the great tradition of ASU Football and the relationships he developed with our student-athletes and alumni,” said Director of Athletics, Tony Duckworth. “We are grateful for his tenure at ASU and support Coach Gabe as he moves into his new position.”

Gardinia will take the reins at the Big South school after it fired previous head coach Autry Denson.

Albany State assistant Anthony Kelly will serve as the interim head coach as the program prepares for a nationwide-search. 

The vacancy at Albany State leaves three coach openings in the SIAC as Kentucky State and Morehouse are looking for someone to lead their programs as well. 

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The first-ever ATL Has Got Something to Say HBCU Challenge tips off Friday at 1 p.m. and will feature four games between SIAC and CIAA men’s teams.

The play picks up Saturday at 10 a.m. with a local Atlanta high school game followed by five HBCU games. A clash between teams from the SWAC and MEAC is an added feature of Saturday’s line-up.

HBCU Challenge: The teams

The CIAA teams — Virginia Union University, Shaw University, Fayetteville State University and Livingstone College — will square off against SIAC squads from Albany State University, LeMoyne-Owen College, Tuskegee University and host Morehouse on Friday.

The CIAA and SIAC teams will switch opponents for the cross-conference competition on Saturday. Norfolk State University of the MEAC will meet Alabama A&M University of the SWAC in the 6 p.m. Div. I match up Saturday.

Showcasing HBCUs

Bringing teams together in one venue from all four HBCU conferences — the NCAA Div. II CIAA and SIAC and NCAA Div. I MEAC and SWAC — was pulled off by Travis L. Williams. His HBCU All-Stars LLC promotional group is also the outfit that put together the first-ever HBCU All-Star Game at this year’s Final Four in New Orleans. The game was carried live on CBS.

The Challenge is another way for the former head men’s basketball coach at Tennessee State and Fort Valley State to showcase HBCU hoops programs.   

HBCU Challenge: The schedule

Here’s the schedule:

FRIDAY, NOV. 18

Albany State vs. Virginia Union — 1 p.m.

LeMoyne-Owen vs. Shaw — 3 p.m.

Tuskegee vs. Fayetteville State — 5 p.m.

Morehouse vs. Livingstone — 7 p.m.

SATURDAY, Nov. 19

Booker T. Washington HS vs. Maynard H. Jackson HS — 10 a.m.

Virginia Union vs. LeMoyne-Owen — 12 noon

Livingstone vs. Albany State — 2 p.m.

Shaw vs. Tuskegee — 4 p.m.

Norfolk State vs. Alabama A&M — 6 p.m.

Morehouse vs. Fayetteville State — 8 pm.

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Fort Valley rushed for over 200 yards on 35 attempts. This averaged out to almost six yards per carry. Emmanuel Wilson was the leading rusher of the game with 221 net yards on the ground. His longest run was a 41 yard burst and he scored all three rushing yards for the Wildcats today. Having the run going to well allowed for things to open up beautifully for Fort Valley’s offense. FVSU’s quarterback Kelvin Durham was able to pass for 198 yards with a 71% completion rate. Durham also scored a touchdown through the air.

While the FVSU Wildcats were having their way with the run game, the Albany State Golden Rams struggled severely. Albany State was only able to muster up a net of 86 rushing yards.

Fort Valley scored the first points of the game late in the first quarter. Emanuel Wilson found the end zone on a 3-yard run to go up 7-0. The Wildcats got on the board again early in the second quarter on a 10-yard touchdown pass from Durham to Hakeem Ellington to go up 14-0. The Golden Rams would go on to score on a 21 yd pass from Jhaydon Sullivan to Ralph Lovett on the next drive for their first points of the game.

The Wildcats maintained the lead throughout the 2022 Fountain City Classic. The Golden Rams were within three points in the fourth quarter after scoring on a blocked punt returned for a touchdown. However, Fort Valley was able to maintain and pull away. The Wildcats are now 8-2 overall and 5-2 in the SIAC. Albany State falls to 7-3 overall and 5-2 in the SIAC.

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The division champs will meet on Nov. 12 at the home of the East champion in the Nov. 12 SIAC Championship game.

HBCU Football Rundown – SIAC East

The surprisingly undefeated Benedict Tigers (7-0, 5-0 SIAC East) have already knocked off their biggest East Division contenders. They handled then undefeated Fort Valley State (45-13 on Oct. 1) at the Wildcats’ homecoming. They then took down defending division and conference champion Albany State (24-20 last week) at the Golden Rams’ homecoming.

This week, the Tigers have a chance to spoil another homecoming in Atlanta (2 p.m.) facing winless Morehouse (0-7. 0-4 E). A win against the Maroon Tigers would leave only FVSU (6-1, 3-1 E) and Albany State (5-2, 3-1 E) still alive with Benedict for the East title.

FVSU plays this week at Clark Atlanta (2-4, 2-3 E) while Albany State plays at Savannah State (3-4, 2-3 E). A loss by either ends their title hopes.

Benedict is up from 23rd nationally in both the AFCA Div. II Coaches Poll and the d2football.com poll. The Tigers are now 18th in the AFCA and 17th in d2football.com.

The Chennis Berry story

The Benedict saga is the lead story in the SIAC this season.

The remarkable turnaround has been engineered and led by second-year head coach and HBCU vet Chennis Berry. Listening to Berry is like taking in a fiery Sunday sermon as he enthusiastically and loudly lays out his prayers for the Benedict program. He did that at the preseason SIAC football Media Day in Atlanta. Those prayers have been answered.

It has taken only two years for Berry to instill that enthusiasm and spirit into his team. It comes from the former Savannah State player getting his first turn as a head coach after 26 years as a valued offensive assistant or associate head coach. He worked in those capacities at eight different HBCU programs — Southern, Howard, NC A&T, Morgan State, Kentucky State, Fort Valley State, Kentucky State and Morris Brown. He has also interned with six different NFL teams.

The Tigers have not won an SIAC football title since re-introducing the sport in 2006 after a 29-year absence.

Benedict in the driver’s seat

Currently, they lead the SIAC giving up just 227.3 yards per game and are second surrendering only 7.4 points per game. Junior defensive end Loobert Denelus has been the defensive standout as he leads the SIAC with 8 sacks and is second in tackles for loss (11.5)

Left-handed junior QB Eric Phoenix has completed 64.9% of his 134 passes for 989 yards and nine TDs with just one interception. Redshirt freshman RB Zaire Scotland has augmented the air attack with 507 yards and 6 TDs on the ground.

Benedict’s final two games are at home. The Tigers’ homecoming game is next week (Oct. 29, 2 p.m.) vs. ClarkAtlanta where they hope to officially lay claim to the division title. They close the regular season on Nov. 5 hosting Allen at Columbia’s (S.C.) Westwood High School.

HBCU Football Rundown – SIAC West

After an 0-2 start, former Miles and new Tuskegee Athletics Director and head coach Regionald Ruffin has worked his magic. The man that won four SIAC titles in nine years at Miles has engineered five straight wins including back-to-back double overtime wins against Allen (35-27 on Sept. 24) and against former Tuskegee head coach Willie Slater now at Clark Atlanta (45-43 on Oct. 1). The five-game win streak has landed the 5-2 Golden Tigers atop the West Division race with a 4-0 league mark.

Tuskegee heads to Jackson, Tn. Saturday (2 p.m.) to face Lane (4-3, 3-1 W), who along with Kentucky State (3-4, 3-1 W) are the only teams that have a chance to catch Tuskegee in the West. KSU is at Miles (1-6, 1-3 W) Saturday (2 p.m.). A loss by either Lane or Kentucky State eliminates them from W. Div. title contention.

The Golden Tigers emerge

Tuskegee is fifth in the SIAC in scoring at just 21.1 points per game but has averaged 40.3 ppg. over its four straight conference wins.

Five-seven, 180-pound senior running back Taurean Taylor has been the standout recently. Taylor has rushed for 533 yards in the last three games (177.3 ypg.) including a 232-yard effort last week in a 49-34 win over Central State. He scored on 29- and 93-yard TD runs to close out the game. He racked up 218 rushing yards in the big win at CAU’s homecoming.

Six-foot, 225-pound bruiser RB Donte Edwards has also been effective (69.3 ypg., 4 TDs) with 100-yard games vs. CAU (18 carries, 118 yds.,1 TD) and Central State (17 car., 144 yds., 2 TDs). Juniors Bryson Williams and Malik Davis have led the Tigers to victories from the quarterback position.

HBCU Football Rundown: Don’t count Lane out

Lane, under new head coach Vyron Brown, has won four of its last five games including a 28-27 non-conference stunner over FCS Ohio Valley Conference member Tennessee State on Oct. 1. The Dragons also threw a scare into East Div. leader Benedict in a non-conference tilt before coming up short 14-0 back on Sept. 10. The Golden Dragons’ only loss in the division was a close 31-26 decision to Kentucky State on Oct. 8.

Lane will feature redshirt senior QB Michael Huntley (1,152 passing yards, 11 TDs, 4 ints.) who is among the leaders in SIAC passing stats. Sophomore wideouts Jacquez Jones (27 rec., 524 yds., 7 TDs) and Virgil Young (25 rec., 411 yds., 3 TDs) have been the main recipients of Huntley’s aerials. Jones is the SIAC’s receiving yardage (87.3 ypg.) and TD receptions leader.

Redshirt senior defensive end Andrew Farmer is a terror. Farmer has amassed 49 tackles, 35 solos, with five sacks and leads the SIAC with 22.5 tackles for loss.

SIAC Games this week

EAST

Allen (HC) vs. Bluefield State in Blythewood, SC      1p

Morehouse (HC) vs. Benedict in Atlanta, GA 2p

Clark Atlanta vs. Fort Valley State in Atlanta, GA      4p

Savannah State vs. Albany State in Sav., GA – ESPN+  5p

WEST

Central State vs. Edward Waters in Wilberforce, OH 1p

Lane vs. Tuskegee in Jackson, TN               2p

Miles vs. Kentucky State in Fairfield, AL – ESPN+    2p

The post HBCU Football Rundown – SIAC appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Tigers strike first

Benedict College came out hot to start the game. The team scored 14 unanswered points to gain a comfortable lead on the road midway through the second quarter. Junior quarterback Eric Phoenix found sophomore receiver Billy Pierre for a ten yard touchdown on third and goal to go up 7-0 late in the first quarter. The Tigers next score came on the ground courtesy of a five yard rushing touchdown from freshman running back Deondra Duehart. This put the visiting Tigers up 14-0 with most of the second quarter left to play.

The Golden Rams have a answer

After several defensive stands from both teams, the Golden Rams finally gave their fans something to cheer for. Sophomore running back Kamron Ward found the end zone with less than two minutes remaining in the half. Ward punched it in behind an eight yard run in the red zone. The Golden Rams defense held the Tigers to a field goal to end the half with the score 17-7.

Fight to the finish

Albany State came out of the half on a mission. Antoine Bonneau slung a pass to Rashad Jordan that resulted in a 93 yard touchdown. Just like that, Albany State was within three points early in the third quarter.

The Benedict Tigers answered right back. This time QB Eric Phoenix scored on a keeper to get the touchdown on a second and goal. The visiting Tigers were back up by ten with the score 24-14 with one more quarter to go.

Albany State scored again on an eight yard pass from sophomore QB Jhaydon Sullivan to junior receiver Ralph Lovett. The Golden Rams missed the point after attempt to put the score 24-20 with less than two minutes remaining. This would be the final score of the game as the Benedict Tigers remain undefeated and the Albany State Golden Rams are handed their second loss of the year.

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Nationally-ranked teams in both conferences are squaring off Saturday against what appears to be the toughest competition in their respective divisions.  

CIAA North showdown

In the CIAA North, Virginia Union (6-0, 4-0 CIAA) is undefeated and nationally-ranked (No. 11 in AFCA Div. II poll,  15th in d2football.com Top 25) as it travels to face three-time division and conference champion Bowie State (4-2, 3-1) Saturday (1 p.m.). 

VUU, under head coach Dr. Alvin Parker, has come up short in four straight match ups with BSU. The last VUU victory was a 42-35 decision in 2016. Last year, BSU handled VUU 27-7 in Richmond en route to its third straight division and league title. Kyle Jackson is the new interim head coach for BSU.

All signs are indicating this is the year the Panthers may get by the Bulldogs. 

The statistical showdown

VUU comes in with the CIAA’s top rusher in Jada Byers. The 5-7, 180-pound sophomore has rushed for a CIAA- and Div. II-best 1,096 yards in six games (182.7 yards per game). He also leads the CIAA and Div. II with 13 rushing touchdowns. The Panthers are averaging 52.2 points per game, again tops in the CIAA and all of Div. II. They are giving up just 12.3 points per game, which also leads the league.

VUU features quarterback Jahkari Grant, whose 11 TD passes have only been surpassed by BSU QB Dion Golatt Jr., who has 13. Golatt’s 271.0 passing yards per game is second in the CIAA. He has thrown six picks. Grant is throwing for 152.8 ypg. with four interceptions.

So, give the rushing edge to VUU (league-best 258.7 ypg. to 150.7) and the passing edge to BSU (league-best 295.8 ypg. to 165.2).

VUU is first in total defense giving up 244.2 ypg, while BSU is second at 249.3. 

This should be a good one.

SIAC East showdown

The SIAC East showdown has nationally-ranked and division and conference champ Albany State (4-1, 2-0 SIAC), who is 21st in the AFCA Div. II poll and 14th in the d2football.com Top 25, traveling to undefeated upstart Benedict (5-0, 3-0) for the Tigers’ homecoming (2 p.m.). Benedict, who entered both the AFCA and d2football.com polls this week at 23rd, has won just two of 19 games vs. Albany State.

Last year, ASU handled the Tigers 28-6. The last Benedict win was a 17-12 upset victory in 2017. 

The statistical showdown

Albany State has been riding the back of its stingy defense which is giving up just 7.2 points per game. Benedict is also tough on defense surrendering just 9.4 points per game. Benedict leads the league in scoring at 35.0 points per game while ASU is putting up 21.6 ppg.

Head coach Chennis Berry’s Tigers lead the league in total offense (399.0 ypg.) and total defense (203,8 ypg.) Gabe Gardina’s ASU squad is tops in rushing offense at 197.4 ypg. with Benedict just behind at 191,6,

Individually, Benedict senior QB Eric Phoenix has thrown for 704 yards and eight TDs without an interception. ASU junior Dionte Bonneau, the preseason SIAC offensive player of the year, has passed for 785 yards and five TDs with three picks. Benedict freshman Noah Zaire Scotland has run for 360 yards and six TDs to lead the Tigers’ ground game. Junior Marcuis Fulks leads ASU with 355 yards and 5 scores. 

This one should be just as good.

MEAC 

The MEAC race is in its early stages but Norfolk State (1-5, 1-0) has jumped on top with its first win Saturday (24-21) over Morgan State. The Spartans will try to build on that early lead as they entertain Delaware State (3-2, 0-0) for homecoming (2 p.m.).

N. C. Central (4-1) hosts Morgan State (2-3, 0-1) for its first league game Thursday night (7:30 p.m.). Howard (1-4) plays its second Ivy League team as it hosts Harvard (3-1) Saturday (4 p.m.) at D. C’s. Audi Field.  

SWAC

Everyone is chasing but can’t seem to catch Jackson State (5-0, 3-0) in the SWAC East. Deion Sanders’ Tigers are in Jacksonville, Fla. to face Bethune-Cookman Saturday (3 p.m.).

The big SWAC game is in the West that has Southern (3-2, 2-1) at division leader Alcorn State (3-2, 2-0) at 6 p.m. 

Games this Week

(HC) Homecomings

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 13

UNC Pembroke vs. West Virginia State in Pembroke, NC 6p

MEAC

NC Central vs. Morgan State in Durham, NC – ESPN2 7:30p

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15

CIAA

Bowie State vs Virginia Union in Bowie, MD 1p

Chowan (HC) vs. Virginia State in Murfeesboro, NC 1p

St. Augustine’s (HC) vs. J. C. Smith in Raleigh, NC – HBCUGo 1p

Eliz. City State (HC) vs. Lincoln (PA) in Eliz. City, NC – Aspire TV 1p

Livingstone (HC) vs. Fayetteville State in Salisbury, NC 1:30

Winston-Salem State vs. Shaw in Winston-Salem, NC 1:30p

MEAC

SC State (HC)  vs. VA-Lynchburg in Orangeburg, SC – ESPN+ 1:30p

Norfolk State (HC) vs. Delaware State in Norfolk, VA – ESPN+ 2p

Truth & Service Classic

Howard vs. Harvard in Washington, DC – ESPN3 4p

SIAC

Tuskegee vs. Central State in Tuskegee, AL – ESPN+ 1p

Fort Valley State vs. Morehouse in Fort Valley, GA 2p

Kentucky State vs. Allen in Frankfort, KY 2p

Albany State (HC) vs. Benedict in Albany, GA 2p

Clark Atlanta (HC) vs. Savannah State in Atlanta, GA 2p

Miles vs. Lane (HC) in Fairfield, AL – ESPN+ 4p 

SWAC

Alabama State vs. Miss Valley State in Montgomery, AL 2p

Grambling St. vs. Florida A&M in Grambling, LA – HBCUGo 2p

Jackson State vs. Bethune-Cookman in Jacksonville, FL – ESPN+ 3p

Southern vs. Alcorn State in Baton Rouge, LA  – ESPN+ 6p

Non-HBCU Conferences

Lincoln (MO) vs. Pittsburg State in Jefferson City, MO 2p

Lyon vs. Texas College in Batesville, AR 2p

Texas Wesleyan vs. Langston in Fort Worth, TX 2p 

Florida Memorial vs. St. Thomas in Miami Gardens, FL 6p

Big South

NC A&T vs. Edward Waters in Greensboro, NC – ESPN+ 1p

CAA

Albany (NY) vs. Hampton in Albany, NY – FloSports 3:30p

OVC

Tenn. Tech vs. Tennessee State in Cookeville, TN – ESPN+ 6p

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16

SWAC

Arkansas-Pine Bluff vs. Alabama A&M in Pine Bluff, AR 3p

The post Showdown time in CIAA, SIAC appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

It begins over the next three weeks (depending on the conference). 

CIAA stretch run

For the CIAA, intra-divisional games — games between teams in the same division — begins this week as the regular season enters its final five weeks. 

This is when determining North and South Division champions in the CIAA really begins.

That’s the focus of our preview this week. The CIAA title game in Salem, Va. is set for Nov. 12.

Stretch run for SIAC and others

There is an almost similar schedule for the SIAC which will also stage its championship game on Nov. 12. True intra-divisional play will start up next week in the SIAC. Its title game will be played at the home of the East Division champion.

Conference play between teams in the MEAC begins in earnest in two weeks (Oct. 22). It gets started with the Norfolk State / Morgan State game this Saturday. Delaware State and Norfolk State will play only the second MEAC game next week (Oct. 15).

The SWAC is a little different. Teams in the SWAC will play inter-divisional games right through the Nov. 26 end of the regular season. The SWAC Championship Game will be played Dec. 3.

Handicapping the CIAA North

In the CIAA North, it usually comes down to three teams – three-time champion Bowie State, Virginia Union and Virginia State. It looks to be trending that way again this season. Virginia Union has had the best start.

Dr. Alvin Parker’s VUU Panthers (5-0, 3-0 CIAA) are the conference’s only undefeated team. VUU is currently ranked 12th in the AFCA NCAA Div. II Coaches Poll and 17th in the D2football.com poll.

Virginia State (4-1, 3-0) and Bowie State (3-2, 2-1) are just behind VUU in the standings. 

Also in the North

In other North Division games, Virginia Union is at home in Richmond, Va. (12 noon) for its homecoming vs. Elizabeth City State (1-4, 1-2). Lincoln (2-2, 1-1) has homecoming (1 p.m.) hosting Chowan (2-3, 2-1).

Next week, VUU plays at Bowie State. VSU will host VUU on Nov. 5, the last week of the regular season.

Handicapping the CIAA South

In the South, Shaw (2-3) and four-time division champion Fayetteville State (3-2) both have 2-1 records in CIAA games. They appear on a collision course for division supremacy. They have a date in Fayetteville for Oct. 29.

After getting by Bowie State, Shaw fell to VSU last week 28-24 on a Trojans’ touchdown with :12 seconds left. FSU battled unbeaten Virginia Union to the wire on Sept. 24 but fell 31-28.

This week, FSU has its homecoming (2 p.m.) vs. winless Saint Augustine’s (0-5, 0-3). Shaw visits (1 p.m.) J. C. Smith (1-3, 1-2) in Charlotte (N.C.) and Livingstone (1-4, 0-3) hosts (1 p.m.) Winston-Salem State (0-4, 0-2) in Salisbury, NC.

This week in the SIAC

Chennis Berry’s Tigers of Benedict are the only undefeated team (5-0) in the SIAC, one of only four in HBCU football. But it is defending champion Albany State that continues as the league’s highest nationally-ranked team.

At 4-1, head coach Gabe Gardina’s ASU Golden Rams are tied for 22nd in the AFCA poll. They are 13th in the D2 poll. Benedict is not in the AFCA poll but is 24th in the D2 poll. Both Benedict and Albany State are in the SIAC East and will face off next week (Oct. 15) at Albany State’s homecoming.

This week, Benedict puts its undefeated record on the line hosting (2 p.m.) Miles (1-3, 1-0). Albany State is at Edward Waters (1-4, 1-3).

Lane and Tuskegee are both 3-2 overall and 2-0 in SIAC games to lead the West Division.

Lane, coming off a big win 28-27 in overtime vs. Tennessee State, hosts (2 p.m.) Kentucky State (1-4, 1-1). Tuskegee, who needed two overtimes to defeat Clark Atlanta Saturday, plays Morehouse in Birmingham for their Classic (7 p.m.). In previous years the Morehouse-Skeege Classic was played in Columbus, Ga.

HBCU Football: SWAC

Now we turn our attention to FCS HBCU Football. After a bye week, undefeated and nationally-ranked Jackson State (4-0, 2-0 SWAC E) gets back into action at homecoming (2 p.m.) at Alabama State (3-2, 1-1 E). JSU is ranked eighth in both the AFCA FCS and STATS Perform FCS Top 25. Jackson is also atop the HBCUGameday FCS poll.

Prairie View A&M (3-2, 3-0 W) is the early leader in the West Division. The Panthers have a key division game (4 p.m.) hosting Southern (2-2, 1-1 W).

Alcorn State (2-2, 1-1 W) plays (6 p.m.) at Miss. Valley State,  Grambling State (1-4, 0-2 W) is at Alabama A&M (1-4, 1-1 E) and Texas Southern (1-4, 1-2 W) is at Arkansas-Pine Bluff’s homecoming (2 p.m.).

Florida A&M (at S. C. State, 2 p.m,) and Bethune-Cookman (at Tennessee State, 5 p.m.) have out-of-conference games.   

HBCU Football: MEAC

Norfolk State (0-5) plays at Morgan State (2-2) in the first homecoming game (1 p.m.) for new MSU coach Damon Wilson. The winner will have the early lead in the MEAC race. 

Games This week

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8

Johnson C. Smith vs. Shaw in Charlotte, NC 1p

Livingstone vs Winston-Salem State in Salisbury, NC 1p

Lane vs. Kentucky State in Jackson, TN 2p

Missouri Southern vs. Lincoln (MO) in Joplin, MO 2p

Benedict vs. Miles in Columbia, SC 2p

Allen vs. Clark Atlanta in Blythewood, SC 6p

Edward Waters vs. Albany State in Jacksonville, FL 6p

Warner vs. Florida Memorial in Lake Wales, FL 7p

Ottawa vs. Texas College in Surprize, AZ 7p

HBCU FOOTBALL: TV / STREAMING GAMES

Alabama A&M  vs. Grambling State in Huntsville, AL – HBCUGo 1p 

Hampton vs. Maine in Hampton, VA – Flo Sports 2p

SC State vs. Florida A&M in Orangeburg, SC – ESPN+ 2p

Prairie View A&M vs. Southern in Prairie View, TX – ESPN+ 4p

Tennessee State vs. Bethune-Cookman in Nashville, TN – ESPN+ 5p

Miss. Valley State vs. Alcorn State in Itta Bena, MS – ESPN+ 6p

Morehouse-Skeege Classic

Morehouse vs. Tuskegee in Birmingham, AL – ESPN+ 7p

HOMECOMINGS

Virginia Union vs. Elizabeth City State in Richmond, VA 12n 

Central State vs. Fort Valley State in Wilberforce, OH 1p

Morgan State vs. Norfolk State in Baltimore, MD – ESPN+ 1p

Lincoln (PA) vs Chowan in Lincoln Univ., PA – HBCUGo 1p

W. Va. State  vs. W. Virginia Wesleyan in Institute, WV 1:30p

Alabama State vs. Jackson State in Montgomery, AL  – ESPNU 2p

Arkansas-Pine Bluff vs. Texas Southern in Pine Bluff, AR 2p

Fayetteville State vs. Saint Augustine’s in Fayetteville, NC 2p

Savannah State vs. VA-Lynchburg in Savannah, GA – FloSports 3p

Virginia State vs. Bowie State in Ettrick, VA  – PRC Communications 4p

The post HBCU Football: Stretch run beginning in CIAA, SIAC appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2022

Fayetteville State 13, Chowan 10 

Johnson C. Smith 49, Elizabeth City State 14

South Carolina 50, SC State 10

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2022

Alabama A&M 35, Bethune-Cookman 27 

Alabama State 16, Texas Southern 13

Albany State 20, Miles 3

Benedict 45, Fort Valley State 13

Bluefield State 22, Apprentice 19

Bowie State 53, Livingstone 7 

Campbell 48, NC Central 18 

Central Oklahoma 45, Lincoln (MO) 3

Central State 35, Allen 32

Delaware State 14, Robert Morris 9

Florida A&M 34, Miss Valley State 7

Keiser 48, Florida Memorial 7 

Lane 28, Tennessee State 27, OT

Langston 43, Lyon 3 

Morgan State 44, VA-Lynchburg 10

NC A&T 24, Bryant  13

More Scores

Prairie View A&M 34, Grambling State 14

Sacred Heart 31, Norfolk State 14

Southern 59, Arkansas-Pine Bluff 3 

Tuskegee 45, Clark Atlanta 43, 2 OTs 

Virginia State 28, Shaw 24

Virginia Union 42, Saint Augustine’s 0

West Virginia State 30, Alderson Broaddus 3

Winston-Salem State vs. Lincoln (PA) – Cancelled

Yale 34, Howard 26

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2022

Edward Waters 49, Morehouse 20

Kentucky State 28, Savannah State 13

HBCU Roundup: Big Winners!

• BENEDICT MOVES TO 5-0 WITH BIG WIN OVER PREVIOUSLY UNDEFEATED FORT VALLEY STATE!

First-year head coach Chennis Berry’s Tigers of Benedict cleared their biggest hurdle yet. They produced a convincing 45-13 win at previously unbeaten Fort Valley State’s homecoming. 

Noah Zaire Scotland ran for three TDs of 2, 7 and 1 yards between the second and third quarters. He also scored on a 9-yard TD pass from QB Eric Phoenix in the first quarter. The tallies helped Benedict (5-0, 3-0 SIAC E) jump to a 40-6 lead thru three quarters.

Phoenix ran for 83 yards on 7 carries and completed 14 of 24 passes for 142 yards and two scores. Benedict opened the game on a 7-play, 72-yard drive culminating in Phoenix’s 16-yard scoring pass to Reginald Harden.  

The Benedict defense held FVSU (4-1, 1-1 E) to 207 yards of total offense. The Tigers allowed the Wildcats to convert just two of 10 third downs. 

• LANE STUNS TENNESSEE STATE!

Lane (3-2, 2-0) scored on a 2-point conversion in overtime to pull off a stunning 28-27 win at Tennesseee State.

TSU (0-4) had scored in overtime on a 2-yard run by Edwin Rhodes. After the PAT, TSU led 27-20. Lane answered with an 11-yard TD run by Ike Brown. Brown then rushed for the 2-point PAT to pull out the win.

The teams entered the extra period tied at 20. TSU scored last in regulation on a 51-yard Kaleb Mosley field goal with just :14 seconds left. Lane led 13-10 at halftime before TSU went up 17-13 early in the third quarter on Jalen Rouse’s 4-yard TD run. Rouse finished with 109 yards on 25 carries. 

Brown sent Lane back on top on a 13-yard scoring pass from Tarik McKenzie with 4:44 left in the period. Brown finished with 74 yards receiving and 63 rushing yards with two TDs.

More Big Winners!

•  NC A&T GETS FIRST BIG SOUTH WIN OVER BRYANT!

Bhayshul Tuten ran for 114 yards on 27 carries as NC A&T got by Bryant 24-13 in the first Big South meeting between the two schools.

Tuten had two short rushing touchdowns in the first quarter. It was his fourth straight game with over 100 rushing yards.

Bryant pulled to within 14-13 in the third quarter, but the Aggies added a late third quarter 37-yard field goal by Andrew Brown and an acrobatic 25-yard scoring pass from QB Jalen Fowler (11-17-1, 110 yds.)to WR Sterling Berkholter (5 rec., 63 yds.) early in the final quarter to pull away.   

HBCU Roundup: Down-to-the-Wire Winner!

•  DAVIS LEADS VIRGINIA STATE OVER SHAW IN NAIL-BITER!

Virginia State scored on a 4-yard run by QB Jordan Davis with :07 seconds left to pull out a 28-24 win over Shaw. The win moved VSU to 4-1 (3-0 CIAA N) under new head coach Dr. Henry Frazier III.

The game-winning drive covered 90 yards in ten plays and took three minutes.

Davis passed for 257 yards (16-31-1) and two TDs and had two rushing TDs to have a hand in all four VSU scores. Shaw QB Christian Peters scored on a 27-yard second quarter run and connected with Jonathan Barnes on a 39-yard scoring pass just before halftime to give the Bears (2-3, 2-1 S) a 17-14 lead at the break.

After VSU’s Upton Bailey returned Shaw’s second half kickoff 42 yards to the Bears’ 39, Davis hit Tylique Ray from there to put VSU up 21-14. Peters then drove Shaw 73 yards in nine plays to retake the lead at 24-21 on his 7-yard scoring pass to Elliot Dangerfield Jr. 

Another Down-to-the-Wire Winner!

• TUSKEGEE NEEDS TWO OTs TO TAKE OUT CLARK ATLANTA!

Head coach Willie Slater at Clark Atlanta and Reginald Ruffin at Tuskegee used to do battle for SIAC West supremacy when Slater was at Tuskegee and Ruffin was at Miles. They battled to a two-overtime decision at their new assignments Saturday.

Ruffin’s Tuskegee squad prevailed 45-43 as his team scored a TD in the second overtime and added a two-point conversion after CAU scored but missed its extra point attempt. 

TU QB Malik Davis had 216 passing yards and two TDs while Tiger running backs Taurean Taylor (26 carries, 218 yards, 1 TD) and Donte Edwards (19 car., 118 yds., 1 TD) led the rushing attack.

CAU QB Shariif Brown did all he could to keep the Panthers in it as he was 12 of 22 passing for 180 yards and two scores and ran for 70 yards and four TDs.

Tuskegee went into halftime with a 13-9 lead after placekicker Arnes Huskic connected on a 25-yard field goal :25 seconds before the break. 

Slater’s Panthers (1-4, 1-3 SIAC E) built a 30-20 second-half lead as Brown scored on 4- and1-yard runs and hit Darren Stephens with a 6-yard scoring pass. 

Edward answered and cut the lead to 30-27 on a 6-yard scoring run with 7:39 left. Huskic sent the game into overtime tied at 30 as he connected on a 24-yard field goal with :08 seconds left. 

Both teams added a TD and kicked a PAT in the first overtime. TU scored on a 23-yard pass from QB Malik Davis to Jordan Ogletree. CAU answered on an 18-yard scoring run from Brown. 

HBCU Roundup: Blowout winners!

• LANGSTON STAYS UNBEATEN IN WIN OVER LYON!

QB Larry Harrington threw for 263 yards and four  TDs, two to wide out Kevin Allen, as Langston moved to 5-0 (4-0 in the SAC) with a 43-3 win over Lyon.

Allen’s TD receptions were for 30 and 43 yards. Harrington also connected on 5- and 72-yard scores.

• BOWIE STATE GETS BIG HOMECOMING WIN OVER LIVINGSTONE! 

BOWIE, Md. — Graduate senior and Morgan State transfer QB Dion “DJ” Golatt, Jr. set a new program record for most passing yards as he completed 32 of 40 passes for 439 yards and four TDs and Bowie State (3-2, 2-1 CIAA N) finished with 666 total yards as it handled Livingstone 53-7 for its annual homecoming game Saturday.

Golatt, Jr. passed former Bowie State standout Amir Hall who previously held the record for most yards in a game at 433 yards. He connected with four different pass catchers for the scores led by ten receptions for 120 yards and a score from wideout Kwincy Hall. 

Defensively, BSU had four sacks, two by Uvel Paul Jr. and 1.5 by Joshua Pryor, and three interceptions, two by DB Raymond Boone. Livingstone (1-4, 0-3 S) was held to 108 total yards. 

•  SOUTHERN WALLOPS ARKANSAS-PINE BLUFF!

Quarterback Besean McCray threw for 241 yards and TDs (14-18-1) to four different receivers and RB Kendric Rhymes ran for 80 yards and two TDs in a big 59-3 Southern (2-2, 1-1 SWAC W) win over Arlansas-Pine Bluff (2-3, 0-2 W). 

Southern amassed 550 total yards while holding UAPB to 190 total yards. The Jags picked off four passes and had ten tackles for losses including 2.5 by Jason Dumas that included 1.5 sacks.  

• GRANT QUARTERBACKS VIRGINIA UNION PAST ST. AUGUSTINE’S!

Grad QB Jahkari Grant (14-21-1) threw for 247 yards and four TDs and RB Jada Byers ran for 114 yards and two scores at Virginia Union (5-0, 3-0 CIAA N) stayed undefeated with a 69-0 win over winless Saint Augustine’s (0-5, 0-3 S).

WR James Jackson (3 rec., 71 yds.) had scoring receptions of 43 and 18 yards and John Jiles (37 yards) and Larry Hackey (13 yards) also had TD catches. Byers scored on runs of 6 and 54 yards.

The VUU defense had 13.5 tackles for losses including four sacks and also picked off two passes. Redshirt junior defensive end Armoni Burden had two sacks and an interception.  

Other Big Winners

• ALBANY STATE PREVAILS IN SIAC TITLE GAME REMATCH!

Albany State (4-1, 2-0SIAC) held Miles to a second quarter field goal in coming away with a 20-3 win, The game was a rematch of the 2021 SIAC championship game. 

The Golden Rams defense scored first on a 40-yard interception return from Jaree Turner late in the first quarter. They then scored after a 64-yard, 12-play drive on a 2-yard Marcuis Fulks run in the second quarter for a 14-3 halftime lead.

ASU posted four sacks and 11 tackles for loss while limiting Miles to 153 yards of total offense.

QB Dionte Bonneau hit Joe’Vontae Shorter on a 62-yard third-quarter scoring pass to put the final points on the board.

• PRAIRIE VIEW HOLDS OFF GRAMBLING, WINS FIFTH STRAIGHT IN SERIES!

Prairie View A&M defeated Grambling State 34-14 for its fifth straight win over the G-Men. It was the first for new head coach Bubba McDowell. 

The Panthers (3-2, 3-0 SWAC W) jumped out to a 27-0 halftime lead before Grambling cut the lead to 27-14 with two late third-quarter TDs. GSU would get no closer as PV added a fourth-quarter fumble recovery by Jaylen Lane for a TD for the final margin.

The post HBCU Roundup: Week Five highlights appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Three of the teams are 3-0. One, Albany State is 2-1. All four will be looking to add to their great starts in games this weekend.

HBCU football teams: Virginia Union in the CIAA

At 3-0, Virginia Union is the ranked team in the CIAA as the Trojans get ready to travel to 2-1 Fayetteville State Saturday (4 p.m.).

The Panthers, after a big win over nationally-ranked Valdosta State two weeks ago, moved into Div. II polls after their 42-6 win over Livingstone Saturday.

VUU is 22nd in the AFCA poll and 20th in the D2football.com poll. It’s the first time Dr. Alvin Parker’s Panthers have been ranked since 2019.

VUU vs. Fayetteville State

The game against FSU Saturday could certainly be a preview of the Nov. 12 CIAA Championship Game on November 12 in Salem, Va.

FSU is the four-time defending CIAA South Division champ and appears ready to make it five in a row. With three-time North Division and league champion Bowie State sitting at 1-2, VUU looks to be the North Division favorite.

VUU and FSU did not meet in 2021.

The player to watch is Div. II rushing leader Jada Byers of VUU. Byers currently leads  D2 in rushing yards (616) and rushing yards per game (205.3). He is tied with teammate Curtis Allen and Jesse Sherwood of Southeast Minnesota State for the lead in rushing touchdowns with six. 

Elsewhere in CIAA inter-divisional play Saturday Lincoln (Pa.) is at JC Smith (12 noon), Elizabeth City State visits Shaw and Bowie State visits St. Augustine’s (1 p.m.). Virginia State plays at Livingstone (4 p.m.) and Chowan entertains Winston-Salem State (6 p.m.).

HBCU teams: Jackson State in the SWAC

Jackson State didn’t move up but stayed at 11th in the AFCA and STATS Perform national FCS polls despite its blowout 66-24 home win over Grambling State Saturday.

JSU quarterback Shedeur Sanders threw for 359 yards and four TDs in the win over GSU. Three of the scoring throws went to wideout Dallas Daniels, a Western Illinois transfer.

Delaware State transfer running back Sy’veon Wilkerson had 141 rushing yards and two TDs for the Tigers. It was the second straight strong rushing performance by Wilkerson and the JSU offense. WIlkerson had 81 yards on 15 carries in the 16-3 win over Tennessee State.

Sanders has thrown for just under 1,000 yards, 955 in three games, an average of 318.6 per game. His passing yardage is fifth-best in the FCS while the passing yards per game is sixth. His ten passing TDs is tied for fourth nationally.

JSU vs. Mississippi Valley State

JSU stays home this week to face Mississippi Valley State (1 p.m., ESPN+).

Last season, MVSU head coach Vincent Dancy’s Delta Devils led JSU at the half and into the third quarter. The Tigers eventually pulled out a close 28-19 win. JSU head coach Deion Sanders said MVSU “had us on the ropes last year. I know they will be prepared.”

In other SWAC games Saturday, Grambling State travels to Bethune-Cookman (2 p.m., ESPN+), Prairie View A&M visits Alabama State (5 p.m.), Alabama A&M is at Florida A&M (6 p.m., ESPN+) and Alcorn State entertains Arkansas-Pine Bluff (6 p.m., HBCUGO/The Grio).

HBCU teams; NC Central in the MEAC

North Carolina Central (3-0), led by QB Davius “Pee Wee” Richard’s two rushing TD and a passing TD, vaulted into the FCS Top 25 after knocking off New Hampshire 45-27. UNH was in the Top 25, at 25th last week, in the FCS poll.

NCCU debuts at No. 25 in the STATS Perform poll but did not get into the AFCA Coaches poll.

Through three games, Richard has completed 63.6 percent of his passes (53 of 83) for 607 yards with four TDs and just one interception.

“Pee Wee (Richard), he’s outstanding,” NCCU head coach Trei Oliver said Monday on the MEAC Coaches Teleconference. “He continues to improve. The biggest thing I’m pleased with is how he takes care of the ball. We’re not turning the ball over.”

The Eagles have a winless but dangerous opponent as they host winless Virginia-Lynchburg Saturday (4 p.m., ESPN+).

Non-conference action in the MEAC also has Delaware State hosting Merrimack and Norfolk State hosting Saint Francis (on ESPN+) both at 2 p.m.

Defending conference champ S. C. State plays at N. C. A&T at 7 p.m. (on ESPN+).

HBCU Football: Albany State in the SIAC

Defending SIAC champ Albany State (2-1), with its only loss to Florida A&M, is 17th in the D2 poll and 20th in the AFCA poll. 

In its 42-20 win over Shorter last week, QB Dionte Bonneau threw for 248 yards and two scores while RB Marcuis Fulks ran for 117 yards and a TD. Fulks, a 5-10, 180-pound junior, is averaging 5.8 yards per carry, 94.0 rushing yards per game and has scored four TDs.

Gabe Gardina’s Golden Rams of Albany State play at 1-1 Clark Atlanta Saturday (6 p.m., ESPN+).

In other SIAC games, Miles is at Central State (12 noon), Allen plays at Tuskegee (1 p.m.). Fort Valley State is at 3-0 but unranked. The Wilcats are at Bluefield State (1 p.m.). Edward Waters is at Lane and Savannah State is at Morehouse at 2 p.m., and Kentucky State is at 3-0 but unranked Benedict at 6 p.m. 

Non-HBCU conferences

Hampton is not ranked but is 3-0 headed into its big date at 3-0 Delaware (6 p.m.) of the CAA Saturday. Langston is 3-0 as it plays at Arkansas Baptist (7 p.m.) Saturday.  

HBCU Football GAMES THIS WEEK

SEPTEMBER 24, 2022    

Eddie McGirt Classic 

Johnson C. Smith vs Lincoln in Charlotte, NC 12n

West Virginia State vs. Notre Dame (OH) in Institute, WV 12n 

Tuskegee vs. Allen in Tuskegee, AL 1p 

Bluefield State vs. Fort Valley State in Bluefield, WV 1p 

Saint Augustine’s vs. Bowie State in Raleigh, NC 1p

Shaw vs. Elizabeth City State in Durham, NC 1p

Lane vs. Edward Waters in Jackson, TN 2p

Northeastern State vs. Lincoln (MO) in Tahlequah, OK 2p

Wayland Baptist vs Texas College in Plainview, TX 2p

Delaware State vs. Merrimack in Dover, DE 2p

Morehouse vs. Savannah State in Atlanta, GA 2p 

Texas-San Antonio vs. Texas Southern in San Antonio, TX 2:30p 

Fayetteville State vs. Virginia Union in Fayetteville, NC 4p 

Livingstone vs. Virginia State in Salisbury, NC 4p

Alabama State vs. Prairie View A&M in Montgomery, AL 5p 

Benedict vs. Kentucky State in Columbia, SC 6p

Chowan vs. Winston-Salem State in Murfeesboro, NC 6p

Arkansas Baptist vs. Langston in Little Rock, AR 7p 

STREAMING OR TV GAMES
Central State vs Miles in Wilberforce, OH – ESPN+ 12n

Jackson State vs. Miss. Valley State in Jackson, MS – ESPN+ 1p

Bethune-Cookman vs. Grambling State in Daytona Beach, FL – ESPN+ 2p

Norfolk State vs. Saint Francis (PA) in Norfolk, VA – ESPN+ 2p

NC Central vs VA-Lynchburg in Durham, NC – ESPN+ 4p

Alcorn State vs. Arkansas-Pine Bluff in Lorman, MS – HBCUGO 6p

Clark Atlanta vs. Albany State in Atlanta, GA – ESPN+ 6p

Delaware vs. Hampton in Newark, DE – FloSports 6p

Florida A&M vs. Alabama A&M in Tallahassee, FL – ESPN+ 6p

NC A&T vs. SC State in Greensboro, NC – ESPN+ 7p

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Fortunately for the Rattlers, their home opener in the newly renovated Bragg Memorial Stadium would end in their first win of the 2022 season.  The Rattlers are clawing back into the season after a rollercoaster beginning.  Coach Willie Simmons managed to put together some glimpses of what this Rattler squad promised to be.

Balanced Attack

FAMU was impressive in the fact that it was able to operate offensively in balance.  They went for 395 total offensive yards with 230 coming through the air and 165 coming on the ground.  The dedication to the running game was key for FAMU controlling the game.  With starting running back Tyrell Jennings on the sidelines, Jaylen McCloud and De’Andre Francis carried the rock as his replacement.

The game started with the Golden Rams taking their first possession and driving down the field as Marcus Fulks scored on a seven-yard run on an option play with a pitch from SIAC Preseason Offensive Player of the Year, quarterback Dionte Bonneau.

FAMU would rebound as De’Andre  Francis scored his first career touchdown for FAMU on a one-yard run.  All-SWAC kicker Jose Romo-Martinez nailed a 29-yard field goal with 7:10 remaining in the half to give FAMU it’s first lead of the night.  With 2:06 remaining in the first half, All-American wide receiver Xavier Smith darted to a corner route and quarterback Jeremy Moussa was right on the money with the pass for a six-yard touchdown.  The Rattlers would go in at halftime with a 17-7 lead.

The third quarter saw Romo-Martinez nail two more field goals giving FAMU a 23-7 lead going to the fourth quarter.

Giardina and his gritty team would not wane as they would score another touchdown in the final 20 seconds of the game.  Marcuis Fulks would power in a one-yard run to make the final score 23-13.

FAMU Streak continues

Simmons will take the win and look forward to a bye week to prepare the Rattlers for an eight week conference run.  

“We’re excited to get a win.  Obviously we didn’t play our best ball but at the end of the day it feels really good to be back in the win column.  It’s good to continue our home winning streak, one of the longest in the nation so it’s been a goal of ours and we wanted to make sure we kept that in tact,” said Simmons.

The Rattlers are on an 11-game home win streak, dating back to 2019.

Giardina proud of the resilience of his team

Giardina was proud of how Albany State stepped up against the Rattlers and was impressed by the game atmosphere in Bragg Stadium.  

“What an environment first of all.  It’s a great place to play.  The electric crowd was awesome.  Just being out there from pregame til the end of the game was a really neat environment.  We had a great start and got a stop and went down and scored and had it moving there for about six minutes, then they did a good job of settling in and I think defensively, I was really proud of our defense.  I thought the guys really tackled so much better than they did last week,” Giardina said.

Albany State will next face Shorter University in Rome, GA.  The Rattlers will have a week off before welcoming in the Alabama A&M Bulldogs to Bragg Stadium.

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Tigers vs. Tigers at Southern Heritage Classic

Both Jackson State and Tennessee State were impressive in Week One — JSU in a win and TSU in a loss.

The JSU Tigers (1-0) apparently took heed to coach Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders’ message to ‘dominate’ as they totally demolished Florida A&M, 59-3 Sunday at the Orange Blossom Classic in Miami Gardens, Florida. 

Eddie George’s TSU Tigers (0-1) gave up a late fourth-quarter touchdown in falling 36-29 on the road in Cheney, Wa. to nationally-ranked Eastern Washington. EWU is ranked 11th nationally (up from 12th) in the AFCA FCS poll.

TSU will see if they can slow down JSU and quarterback Shedeur Sanders who carved up FAMU (29 of 33) for 323 passing yards and five TDs. They meet in Memphis Saturday (6 p.m. CT, ESPN+) in a big HBCU FCS match up at the 33rd Southern Heritage Classic.

Many considered FAMU the second-best HBCU team to JSU entering the season. If so, Sunday’s decision shows a wide gap between JSU and the rest of the field. Sanders’ Tigers are up from 17th to 15th in this week’s American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) FCS poll.

FCS match up: TSU no slouch

But let’s not crown Jackson State so fast. Eddie George’s TSU Tigers may have something to say about that.

George’s squad outgained EWU in total yardage 547-474. The Tigers rushed for 290 yards led by a career-high 207 yards in 25 carries by all-OVC running back Devon Starling. Starling had a 43-yard scoring run vs. EWU.

Austin Peay transfer quarterback Draylen Ellis also had a good outing. The fellow all-OVC selection threw for 257 yards (17 of 27) and two touchdowns with one interception. Ellis and Starling were OVC co-freshmen of the year in the 2020-21 season.

While Sanders has been loudly touting his J-State squad George has quietly assembled a T-State team that may challenge JSU.

Perhaps adding to the intensity of this rivalry is that JSU is pulling out of the classic after this season. Sanders says his only reason for going to Memphis is to ‘dominate’ TSU.

We’ll see.

HBCU Football: NC A&T looks to rebound

NC A&T (0-1) fell to NC Central 28-13 Saturday at the Duke’s Mayo Classic in Charlotte, N.C. It was the first loss for the Aggies in the last six games vs. the rival Eagles.

Rebounding will be tough as they travel to Fargo, North Dakota Saturday (1:30 p.m. DT, ABC ND, ESPN+) to face the Bison of North Dakota State.    

The Bison (1-0), ranked first in the AFCA FCS poll, have won nine of the last 11 FCS national championships. They went 14-1 a year ago and captured the FCS title in a 38-10 win over Montana State in the championship game.

This game was on the 2020 schedule but was called off when A&T did not play that season because of the COVID-19 pandemic. It was to be billed as the ‘FCS best’ vs. the ‘HBCU football best’ as the Aggies were coming off two straight Celebration Bowl wins and HBCU national championships.

A lot has changed since then. NDSU has continued to roll while the Aggies struggled to a 5-6 finish a year ago, their first losing season in 12 years.

FCS match ups vs. FBS

HBCU FCS teams took it on the chin facing FBS opponents last week. ACC FBS Miami thrashed Bethune-Cookman 70-13, UAB shut out Alabama A&M 59-0 and Marshall had its way with Norfolk State 55-3. Defending MEAC champion South Carolina State was humbled by Central Florida, 56-10.

The FCS vs. FBS match-ups continue this Saturday as Alabama State and new head coach Eddie Robinson Jr. take their 2-0 record out to the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California Saturday (2 p.m. PT, PAC-12 Network) to take on UCLA. It is Alabama State’s first game in California and the first time UCLA has played an HBCU in football.

UCLA Athletics Director Martin Jarmond’s late mother Virginia is a NC Central graduate while his father is an NC A&T alum. UCLA will entertain NC Central in football in the 2023 season.

Southern (1-0), after an 86-0 win over Florida Memorial last week, travels 11 miles down the road in Baton Rouge, La to face LSU (1-0) Saturday (6:30 p.m. CT, SEC Network). Howard (0-2) plays at South Florida (7 p.m. ET, ESPN+). 

James Madison (1-0), who has moved up to the FBS from the FCS, entertains Norfolk State (0-1) in Harrisonburg, Va. (4 p.m. ET). Alabama A&M (0-1) is at Troy (6 p.m. CT, ESPN3) and Alcorn State (0-1) is at Tulane (6 p.m. CT, ESPN+).

Div. II HBCU Football match ups

Defending SIAC champion Albany State started its season on the right foot with a 28-14 win over Mississippi College.

It will be interesting to see how FAMU and head coach Willie Simmons respond after the beating it took from Jackson State when the Rattlers (0-2) entertain the Golden Rams (1-0) and head coach Gabe Gardina Saturday in Tallahassee (6 p.m. ET). Albany State is up from 18th to 15th in the AFCA Div. II poll. It is the first game of the season to be shown on HBCUGo TV.

Virginia Union (1-0) will have to come down from its 77-0 dismantling of Virginia-Lynchburg as it goes on the road Saturday (5 p.m. ET) to face AFCA Div. II No. 3 Valdosta State (1-0).

Three-time defending CIAA champ Bowie State (1-0), ninth in the AFCA D2 poll, travels to Saginaw Valley State for a 1 p.m. contest Saturday. This will be the second HBCU Celebration Game after the UNC/FAMU game that opened the season. SVSU was impressive in a 72-0 shellacking of West Virginia Wesleyan to open the season Saturday. 

West Georgia is tenth in the D2 poll and plays at Morehouse Saturday (6 p.m. ET).

NC Central (1-0) has another backyard brawl as it hosts former CIAA rival Winston-Salem State Saturday (6 p.m. ET, ESPN+). Hampton is hosting Tuskegee Saturday (6 p.m. ET, FloSports) in what could be called the ‘Booker T. Washington Classic’ as the legendary figure was instrumental in the founding of both institutions.

GAMES THIS WEEK

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The Bulldogs were predicted to win the CIAA again in 2022.

BSU isn’t the only reigning HBCU football champion ranked in the top 25.

SIAC Champion Albany State is ranked in the 18th spot to start the season – the same spot it finished in following the 2021 season. ASU went 10-2 last season to claim the conference title. It brings back the reigning SIAC Defensive Player of The Year (Stephen Pierre) and the 2022 SIAC Preseason Player of The Year in quarterback Dionte Bonneau.

Two other HBCU football programs – both of them in the CIAA – were listed in the “receiving votes” category. Virginia Union received four votes while Shaw University received two votes. VUU finished 6-4 overall, 5-2 in CIAA North play as it was runner-up in the division to BSU. Shaw also finished 6-4, 5-2 in the conference and second in the CIAA South to Fayetteville State.

Fayetteville State, the four-time CIAA runner-up, did not receive any votes. 

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That likely overshadowed the fact that the conference has not named a replacement for longtime Commissioner Greg Moore, who announced in late May that he was stepping down after nearly 14 years leading the conference.

Nonetheless, the day went smoothly. Associate Commissioner for Communications Tyler Williams deftly handled the proceedings. Seven new head men were among the coaches that made their way to the stage in downtown Atlanta to be interviewed by host James Verett after sitting down with the various media outlets in attendance.

That’s new men at the helm of more than half the 13 SIAC programs. Of the current head coaches, Morehouse head coach Richard Freeman, in his 11th season leading the Maroon Tigers, now has the longest tenure at one school.

A brand new crop in the West

In an interesting twist, four of the five West Division programs have new faces at the helm. Two of them have moved from one conference program to another. Three in all are getting their second head coaching assignment in the league. All three come with conference championship credentials.

The shake-up of sideline mentors had little bearing however on who the head coaches and sports information directors voted to win division titles (watch here). Albany State in the East and Miles in the West are picked to repeat.

Here are profiles of the new coaches. Let’s begin with those that have SIAC titles.

Willie Slater: From Tuskegee to Clark Atlanta

Willie Slater, the new coach at Clark Atlanta, spent the last 15 years as the head man at Tuskegee. He also spent the last five years as Tuskegee’s athletics director.

“I enjoy working,” said Slater of his 44-year career as a coach. “I guess I could have retired and all that. But I enjoy working and enjoy working with young men. I’m excited about the opportunity.”

Slater posted a sterling record of 110-29 (.791) with six seasons of double-digit wins and another four nine-win seasons in his first 12 seasons at Tuskegee. He had only one losing campaign in those dozen years. That stretch included seven SIAC titles and nine West Division titles.

But over the last three seasons, his Golden Tigers were just 13-18, never finishing above .500. Maybe, the double duties of coach and AD caught up to him. He’ll only have to focus on coaching the Panthers.

Slater, who said he has been calling plays since the 10th grade, said he won’t be calling plays for the Panthers. “Well, they embarrassed me at Tuskegee. They said I’m old and my play-calling skills are old and all that stuff. So, rather than have any controversy, Coach (Richard) Moncrief is our offensive coordinator.”

CAU finished 2-8 overall and 0-6 in the SIAC last season under head coach Tim Bowens. They open on Sat., Sept. 3 at new conference member Edward Waters.

Reginald Ruffin: Taking on the double duties at Tuskegee

The double-dip of head football coach and AD at Tuskegee has now been taken on by former Miles head coach Reginald Ruffin. He also served in both capacities for the Golden Bears. Ruffin has said he will spend just one year in both jobs before surrendering the coaching duties.

Ruffin had two stints as an assistant at Tuskegee under Rick Comegy ((2002-2003) and Slater (2006-2010) before becoming head coach at Miles in 2011. He spent the last 11 years leading a resurgence for the Golden Bears challenging and often overcoming Slater and Tuskegee in the SIAC’s West Division. He won the last three West titles, six overall, and corralled four conference championships leading Miles.

“For me it’s a blessing,” Ruffin said of returning to Tuskegee. “Because the three winningest top coaches in the history of Tuskegee — Cleve Abbott, Rick Comegy and Willie Slater, — I was fortunate to coach under two of them. That’s a blessing for me that propelled me in my career as a coach because of what I leaned from those guys.”

Tuskegee and Ruffin, coming off a 3-8 record in Slater’s last season, open against Fort Valley State in Montgomery, Alabama on Sun., Sept. 4 at the first annual Red Tails Classic.

Kevin Porter: From Fort Valley State to Central State

New Central State head coach Kevin Porter was last in the league in 2019 completing the last leg of a four-year stint (2016-19) leading Fort Valley State. Porter guided the Wildcats to the SIAC title in his inaugural season, 2016.

The Marauders, who changed coaches from Bobby Rome to interim head coach George Ragsdale during the 2021 season, are coming off a 1-9 campaign. Porter will make his CSU coaching debut on Sunday Sept. 4 against Winston Salem State at the Black College Football Hall of Fame Classic in Canton, Ohio. The game will be televised on the NFL Network.

“The opportunity to play on national television at the Hall of Fame game is impetus for the football team and the program to get out there and start on the right foot and do a great job of representing the university,” said Porter during a sit-down interview with this reporter at the SIAC Media Day. “The University obviously has tremendous tradition as far as the football program goes and I want to make sure our kids understand that tradition, where that comes from and what we’re planning.”

The Marauders won three NAIA Division II national championships from 1990-95, and were runner-up in 1983 while competing in NCAA Division II.

The first timers: Sam Shade at Miles

Stepping into the formidable shoes of Ruffin at Miles is Sam Shade, who grew up in Birmingham before playing at Alabama and in the NFL. He has been a state championship high school coach in Alabama and has also coached on the collegiate and NFL levels.

“I grew up ten minutes away from Miles College,” Shade said from the stage at SIAC Media Day Tuesday. “In fact, my father lives eight minutes away. I’ve got two sisters that graduated from Miles and a nephew that actually played at Miles. I actually played coach Ruffin. I’m very familiar with the program and I’m very excited about the opportunity.”

Miles was 6-4 overall, winning the West with a 4-2 record before falling to Albany State in the championship game, 31-0. Shade debuts at Alabama State on Sat., Sept. 3.

Aaron Kelton at Savannah State

Savannah State made a run at the SIAC East title under Shawn Quinn last season finishing 8-2 overall, 5-1 in league play. Quinn left to become linebackers coach at Virginia Tech.

Aaron Kelton, a Boston native, takes over at Savannah State from Howard where he was the defensive backs coach and recruiting coordinator. He also served as interim head coach at Howard in 2019.

“The city of Savannah, the university, its rich history, the great climate and to be able to play in a conference like the SIAC is what really attracted me,” said Kelton of his coming to SSU. “We’re at the end of a transition period in the program. We’ve lost guys to graduation and all those different kinds of things. So we’re excited, and a little anxious to see what we can do.”

SSU opens at Southeastern University on Sat., Sept. 3.

Shawn Gibbs at Fort Valley State

Shawn Gibbs comes to Fort Valley State after working the last 19 years as running backs at NC Central, Grambling and NC A&T. He also was assistant head coach and running backs coach under Rod Broadway and Sam Washington at N. C. A&T. But he’s quite familiar with the SIAC.

“Well, I’m a third-generation black college product, so I’m familiar with HBCUs in general,” Gibbs said. So, I’ve known about the SIAC forever. I know it’s tradition-filled. I know it has a lot great coaches, a lot of great players and a lot of history.”

“The thing about coach Broadway is that you have to be accountable. That’s as a coach, an assistant coach and the players. Do your job and do your job well. That’s what coach Broadway preached and that’s what coach Washington preached. That’s my motivation.”

That experience will be critical as he takes over a Wildcats’ program that finished 5-5, 3-3 in the SIAC last season under Maurice Flowers.

Ramon Johnson at Kentucky State?

Apparently taking on some degree of head coach/athletics director’s duties is Kentucky State’s Ramon Johnson. Johnson, who just completed his first year as AD, introduced himself as the interim AD and acting head coach. Interestingly, he brought KSU offensive coordinator Paul Hamilton to join him on stage to talk about the team.

After back-to-back seven-win seasons, Charlies Jackson left Kentucky State to become assistant head coach and defensive backs coach at Air Force. The Thorobreds were 7-4 overall while finishing second in the West at 4-2 in the SIAC.

“What we wanted to do is to provide some consistency for our student athletes and our athletic program,” said Johnson on stage at Wednesday’s SIAC Media Day. “Coach Hamilton has been very instrumental in helping me navigate those waters making sure that we’re able to retain a great number of our student/athletes from last season.”

Johnson was non-committal about whether he will be on the sidelines when the Thorobreds open at Fort Valley State on Sunday, Sept. 11. “Well, at this particular point what I can say is that Kentucky State will continue to move in a positive direction.”

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“Congratulations to India Blakley and Lachlan Ross for representing the SIAC as our inaugural Man and Woman of the Year,” said Leighton Batiste, SIAC Associate Commissioner of Marketing and Partnerships. “We are elated to submit two student-athletes that represent the best our conference and its member institutions have to offer!”

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The selections were modeled after criteria set forth by the NCAA, which requires the evaluation of four guidelines, including a personal statement, the individual’s service and leadership activities, academic achievement, and athletic excellence.

“This honor is a fitting accomplishment of both academic and athletic performance as well as community service commitment by Ms. Blakely and Mr. Ross,” said Tyler Williams, SIAC Associate Commissioner of Communications and Senior Woman Administrator. “Both student-athletes are intentional community leaders who serve as role models on and off the field. They have represented our conference well and are examples of thoughtful leaders who emerge from our league. Congratulations to both of you on this accomplishment!”

Meet India Blakely, Tuskegee
2022 SIAC Woman of the Year
Sponsored by GEICO

“Through my years at Tuskegee, I have learned so much,” said Blakely, “I am thankful for my experiences that have truly shaped my future. These are the lessons I will always take with me with any path I choose.” 

After starting her collegiate career at Tuskegee, Blakely helped the Golden Tigers to two Western Division Championship titles. As a junior in 2020, she was named a pre-season and regular season all-conference honoree and was named to the all-tournament team after leading her team to a conference championship runner-up title. She also led the Golden Tigers to be ranked No. 1 in the WBCA National Top 25 Ranking for the first time in 20 years. During her senior year, her honors include being named to the NCAA Division II Black College Sports Network (BCSN) Postseason All-America First Team and the 2021-22 SIAC Preseason All-Conference Team.

Blakely stated about her experience, “Being a student-athlete is not an easy task, but when you can juggle the two, that’s what makes it all worth it.”

Blakely’s accomplishments off-court reflect those on-campus. At Tuskegee, she is enrolled in a 5-year occupational therapy program where she will finish her master’s degree. She is a member of the Alpha Kappa Mu Honor Society and the Occupational Therapy Honor Society and maintains a 3.57 GPA. . Blakely’s workload also included community service, where she serves as the Co-CEO at the Auburn Traumatic Brain Injury Clinic. She was a volunteer who oversaw the clients’ progress and benefited from the free client-centered occupational therapy. She also was a presenter and advocate for HIV awareness, where she was able to speak to faculty and students. Ms. Blakely also assists with free basketball clinics for youth within her community.

“Through these organizations, I have learned the importance of time management and giving back to the community, especially the black community.”

Meet Lachlan Ross, Albany State
2022 SIAC Man of the Year

Ross, an international baseball student-athlete from Sydney, Australia, described his experience at Albany State as “life-changing.” After starting his collegiate career at a community college, Ross transferred to Albany State during the COVID-19 pandemic. He described his transition from a small Midwest community college to a large HBCU as an “opportunity of a lifetime to hone in and become the best I can be.” 

He is a graduating senior that has maintained a perfect 4.0 while majoring in Accounting. In his senior season with the Golden Rams, Ross collected preseason and all-conference athletic honors helping his team to a conference championship runner-up title. 

“Before coming to Albany State University, I had never experienced being a minority. I did not really understand what an HBCU was, given they do not exist in Australia, and was quite surprised to find myself as a minority,” said Ross. “However, this new environment allowed me to immerse myself in an unfamiliar setting and learn from others who are vastly different from myself.”

Ross’ off-court involvement displays his exceptional character and leadership abilities. At Albany State, he garnished SIAC All-Academic honors, was honored with the Board of Regents Outstanding Scholastic Achievement Award, ASU President’s Honor Roll, and was ranked the No. 1 senior in the Accounting department. 

“I have pushed my own personal capabilities physically, mentally, and socially further than I ever thought I could,” said Ross. “Throughout this process, I have tried to use my newfound knowledge to bring people up with me and help make their mark on the world.”

Ross served as a leader on-campus through his involvement as a member of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), a resident assistant, and a student ambassador on-campus. He also served as an area leader with the football gameday operations team. “I would volunteer to tutor teammates and show recruits around the campus,” said Ross. “While some might have seen these tasks as a burden, I loved every second of trying to express how great the community was and try to repay the huge opportunities afforded to me.” 

In the community, Ross served as a volunteer evaluator with the local little league teams and a leader in the community service effort entitled “Stash the Trash.” He also served as a member of the Cultural Exchange Club.

“I was able to open my eyes to a different perspective on the world and also open the eyes of others to my unique experience.”

2022 Woman annd Man of the Year Honorees
2022 SIAC Woman of the Year: India Blakely, Tuskegee
2022 SIAC Man of the Year: Lachlan Ross, Albany State

Woman of the Year Nominees
Glory Seay (Albany State)
Andrea Wallace (Kentucky State)
LaQuanza Glover (Edward Waters)
Tiffany Blakley (LeMoyne-Owen)
Nyah Dismukes (Fort Valley State)

Man of the Year Nominees
Brett Sylve (Kentucky State)
Zaquan Baldwin (Fort Valley State)
Jacob Kirby (Spring Hill)
Fuhit Evens Edouard Cadit (Edward Waters)

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Without going too long, HBCU Gameday is introducing its inaugural staff polls for FCS and Division II/NAIA HBCU Football. Our polls will come out weekly throughout the season as we watch and vote.

Points were assigned for each vote, with a first-place vote being worth ten points and a 10th place vote being worth one point. Points were tabulated to compile the top 10. 

The FCS poll results can be found here.

Without further ado, here is the inaugural HBCU Gameday Preseason D2 HBCU Football poll as voted on by our staff. 

HBCU Gameday Staff D2 Poll

10. Lane College
Lane showed its teeth early in the 2021 season but the Dragons soon ran out of fuel. Can it maintain it and make its move this year?

9. Kentucky State
Kentucky State had some moments in 2021, but it will be heading into 2022 with a new head coach.

8. Benedict College
Benedict made some strides under Chennis Berry last year, so some expect them to be the top challenger to Albany State in the SIAC East. 

7. Tuskegee
The Reginald Ruffin Show is here for a good time, but not a long time. Will it be enough to get the Golden Tigers back in the hunt? 

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6. Savannah State
Savannah State is starting over with a new head coach and has seen an exodus of many of its key players. 

5. Miles College
Reginald Ruffin has left the building, and headed down the street. Can Miles still keep the West on lock?

T-4. Shaw
Shaw has been the bridesmaid to the bridesmaid in the CIAA South. Can it ruin the Broncos planned coronation?

T-4. Va. Union
Virginia Union has been waiting in the wings of the CIAA North for nearly a decade. If not now – when? 

3. Albany State (one first-place votes)
After rising to the top of the SIAC, Albany State now has the task of staying on top of the conference. 

2. Bowie State (Two first-place votes)
Bowie State has undergone massive change since last season. From its head coach to its defensive coordinator to many of its top players. All eyes are now on Prince George’s County. 

1. Fayetteville State (Two first-place votes)
Fayetteville State has been the bridesmaid in the CIAA for the last half-decade. Is this the year it finally breaks through and claims the big prize?  At least two of our voters think so. 

Receiving votes: Virginia State, Langston and Morehouse

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