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FAMU Rattlers Secure Thrilling 24-23 Victory Over Norfolk State in 2024 MEAC/SWAC Challenge

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The 2024 MEAC/SWAC Challenge was nothing short of electrifying, with the Florida A&M University (FAMU) Rattlers narrowly edging out Norfolk State in a 24-23 victory. This win in Atlanta not only kicks off FAMU’s season with a bang but also cements their status as a force to be reckoned with in HBCU football.

A Historic Achievement in Atlanta

FAMU’s victory in the MEAC/SWAC Challenge is a historic one. The Rattlers became the first team to close one season with a Celebration Bowl victory and begin the next with a win in the Challenge. The 24-23 win over Norfolk State marks their second consecutive victory in Atlanta, and it’s clear that the Rattlers are setting the tone for what could be another championship-worthy season.

A Game of Two Halves

The game was a tale of two halves. FAMU found themselves trailing 14-10 at halftime, with Norfolk State’s running game causing significant problems. The Spartans racked up 191 rushing yards in the first half, putting the Rattlers on their heels. But FAMU’s defense made crucial adjustments during the break, allowing only 36 rushing yards in the second half. This defensive turnaround was the key to the Rattlers’ comeback.

Offensive Spark Ignited

With the defense stepping up, FAMU’s offense found its rhythm. Quarterback Daniel Richardson, making his first start for the Rattlers, connected with wide receiver Jamari Gassett for two pivotal second-half touchdowns. Gassett’s playmaking ability and Richardson’s poise under pressure proved to be the difference in the game, as FAMU edged ahead of Norfolk State.

This victory also marks a successful debut for new FAMU head coach James Colzie III. Securing his first win in such a high-stakes game bodes well for the season ahead, as Colzie looks to build on the legacy of success at FAMU.

SWAC’s Momentum Continues

With FAMU’s win, the SWAC conference continues to gain ground in the MEAC/SWAC Challenge series, reducing the MEAC’s overall lead to 11-7. The SWAC has now won the last three games in this series, underscoring the growing competitiveness and talent within the conference.

Interestingly, FAMU’s win is their second in the MEAC/SWAC Challenge, but their first as a member of the SWAC. Their previous victory came in 2013 when they were still part of the MEAC, adding another layer of intrigue to this storied rivalry.

Looking Ahead: Future MEAC/SWAC Challenges

The excitement from this year’s MEAC/SWAC Challenge sets the stage for what promises to be thrilling matchups in the years to come. The 2025 game will see North Carolina Central take on Southern, followed by Alabama A&M facing Howard in 2026, and South Carolina State going head-to-head with Alabama State in 2027. Each of these games will continue the tradition of showcasing the best in HBCU football, with pride and bragging rights on the line.

Final Thoughts

FAMU’s 24-23 victory over Norfolk State in the 2024 MEAC/SWAC Challenge was a testament to resilience, strategy, and sheer willpower. The Rattlers’ ability to make crucial adjustments and execute in the clutch highlights why they are one of the premier programs in HBCU football. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on FAMU to see if they can carry this momentum forward and once again find themselves in the Celebration Bowl at season’s end.

Go Rattlers! 🐍

We are dedicated to celebrating the rich history, vibrant culture, and enduring legacy of Historical Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Our mission is to provide a platform that honors the invaluable contributions of HBCUs to higher education, social justice, and community empowerment. Through insightful articles, engaging narratives, and meaningful dialogue, we strive to amplify the voices, experiences, and achievements within the HBCU community. By fostering awareness, appreciation, and support for HBCUs, we aspire to inspire current and future generations to pursue excellence, equity, and inclusivity in education and beyond.

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Peter Oduro Shines Despite Coppin State’s Loss to Penn State

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STATE COLLEGE, Pa. – Despite a strong performance by Peter Oduro, who tallied a game-high 15 points, the Coppin State men’s basketball team fell to Penn State, 99-51, on Saturday afternoon at Bryce Jordan Center. With the loss, the Eagles dropped to 0-12 on the season, while the Nittany Lions improved to 9-2 overall. HBCU Original was on-site to cover the action.


Key Performances

  • Peter Oduro: Led all scorers with 15 points, shooting an impressive 7-of-9 from the floor, including a three-pointer. He connected on his first six field-goal attempts.
  • Jonathan Dunn and Toby Nnadozie: Scored 10 points each, joining Oduro in double figures.
  • Camaren Sparrow: Added seven points and recorded two steals alongside Nnadozie.
  • Julius Ellerbe III: Dominated the boards with a game-high eight rebounds and contributed five assists.

Penn State outperformed Coppin State in several key areas, shooting 56.7% from the field compared to Coppin’s 35.5% and holding a 45-28 advantage in rebounds. The Eagles’ 15 assists marked their highest total since their March 2, 2023, matchup against Morgan State, with contributions from Cam’Ron Brown (four assists) and Sparrow (three assists).


Game Recap

The Nittany Lions opened the game with a 6-0 run before Oduro got the Eagles on the board with a jumper at the 18:39 mark. After Penn State converted a three-point play, Nnadozie answered with another jumper, but the home team responded with a 20-0 surge to take control of the game.

Oduro’s efficient scoring continued as he knocked down two more field goals, and Nnadozie connected on a three-pointer with 5:40 left in the first half. However, Penn State maintained its dominance, entering halftime with a commanding 52-21 lead.

The Nittany Lions extended their advantage in the second half, with the final score representing their largest lead of the game.


Up Next

Coppin State will look to regroup as they continue to seek their first win of the season. HBCU Original remains dedicated to providing comprehensive coverage of HBCU athletics.

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Jackson State Football Reigns Supreme in SWAC, Advances to Celebration Bowl

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By HBCU Original

JACKSON, Miss. — The Jackson State Tigers are officially back on top, and their SWAC dominance is undeniable.

In a statement victory, Jackson State (11-2) crushed Southern 41-13 on Saturday at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium. This marks the Tigers’ third conference title in four years and the first under second-year head coach T.C. Taylor.

McDonald Steps Up When It Matters Most

Starting quarterback Jacobian Morgan exited late in the first half after taking a tough hit. Enter junior quarterback Zy McDonald, who stepped in and put on a show.

McDonald accounted for 170 total yards, including 95 on the ground and two touchdowns. His composure and dual-threat ability kept the Tigers’ offense humming, proving that the moment was never too big for him.

“I always prepare like I’m going to play,” McDonald said postgame. “Tonight, it was my turn to step up for my brothers.”

Southern Overwhelmed by Tigers’ Defense

Southern (8-5), the SWAC West representative, struggled to find offensive rhythm. Quarterback Czavian Teasett was limited to 127 passing yards, and the Jaguars failed to generate consistent momentum against Jackson State’s swarming defense.

The Tigers imposed their will, winning the physical battle in the trenches and forcing Southern to settle for short drives and punts.

Celebration Bowl Bound

The Tigers’ victory sends them to the Cricket Celebration Bowl on Dec. 14 in Atlanta, where they will face MEAC champion South Carolina State (9-2). It’s an opportunity for Jackson State to showcase their talent on the national stage and bring home more hardware.

Game Highlights

Final Score: Jackson State 41, Southern 13

Key Plays:

  • 2Q: Emari Matthews tied the game 10-10 with a two-yard touchdown run just before halftime.
  • 3Q: Irv Mulligan’s two-yard touchdown run extended the lead to 17-10 early in the second half.
  • 4Q: McDonald sealed the deal with a 23-yard touchdown run, stretching the lead to 27-10.

Player of the Game: Zy McDonald – 170 total yards and two touchdowns, stepping in at quarterback with poise and purpose.

Jackson State’s Recipe for Success

This season, the Tigers have thrived on resilience and adaptability. Despite injuries, they’ve leaned on their depth and found new heroes each week. Saturday was no different, with McDonald and the defense setting the tone.

A Legacy in Progress

For Jackson State, this isn’t just about wins and losses; it’s about carrying the torch for HBCU excellence. From T.C. Taylor’s leadership to the grit of the players, this program continues to elevate the legacy of SWAC football.

Stay tuned as the Tigers aim for glory in Atlanta and represent HBCU pride on the biggest stage.

HBCU Original: The Voice of Black College Sports

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Coppin State Stuns Arizona State in Overtime Thriller, 74-68

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In a game for the ages, Coppin State University’s women’s basketball team shocked Arizona State University (ASU) in a thrilling 74-68 overtime victory on Friday night. The win marked the Eagles’ first-ever home triumph over a power-conference opponent, sending the packed CSU arena into a frenzy.

The Eagles were carried by dynamic duo Angel Jones and Laila Lawrence, who combined for 43 points in a heroic effort. Jones led all scorers with 23 points, shooting 8-of-20 from the field and a clutch 7-of-11 from the charity stripe, while also contributing five rebounds and three assists. Lawrence added 20 points on 8-of-16 shooting, nearly recording a double-double with nine boards, five assists, and defensive brilliance with four steals and a block.

Coppin State’s balanced attack featured four players in double figures for the first time this season. Senior guards Tyler Gray and Tiffany Hammond each chipped in 12 points. Hammond drained four three-pointers in a sharpshooting display, while Gray was ice-cold under pressure, hitting all six of her free throws. The pair also contributed defensively, combining for five steals.

The Eagles outshot the Sun Devils 41.3% to 38.8% from the field and turned defense into offense, scoring 20 points off ASU’s 20 turnovers. Coppin State also held the edge at the free-throw line, connecting on 15-of-21 attempts compared to ASU’s 9-of-12.

For Arizona State (4-4), junior guard Jalyn Brown was the standout, posting 17 points, six rebounds, and three assists. Tyi Skinner added 14 points, while Nevaeh Parkinson fought hard in the paint, finishing with nine points and 10 rebounds. Parkinson, fresh off a career-high 26 points in ASU’s previous game, added another milestone by hitting just the second three-pointer of her career.

Overtime proved decisive, as Coppin State dominated the extra frame. The Eagles shot a blistering 60% (6-of-10) in overtime while holding the Sun Devils to a frigid 18.2% (2-of-11). ASU’s shooting woes in the clutch nullified their strong middle quarters, where they hit 52% from the field.

This monumental victory adds a new chapter to Coppin State’s history, showcasing a team that capitalized on grit, execution, and resilience to topple a powerhouse program.

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Delaware State University Falls to University of Delaware in High-Scoring Rivalry Match

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NEWARK, Del. — HBCU Original was on-site for the intense Battle of Delaware, where Delaware State University fell short in a high-energy showdown against the University of Delaware, 93-80, on Tuesday night.

Despite a standout performance from Robert Smith, who dropped a game-high 22 points, and a strong second-half effort, the Hornets (3-6) couldn’t overcome the Blue Hens’ dominant first half. Martez Robinson added 19 points for Delaware State, and Corey Perkins chipped in with eight, but the team’s halftime deficit proved insurmountable.

“We came alive in the second half, but we’ve got to play with that intensity from the tip,” said Delaware State head coach Stan Waterman.

The University of Delaware (5-3) leaned on a balanced offensive attack, led by Cavan Reilly, who finished with 20 points, including 14 in the second half. Erik Timko delivered 18 points, highlighted by three three-pointers, while John Camden added 13 points, shooting 3-of-4 from beyond the arc.

The Blue Hens set the tone early, heading into the break with a 42-27 lead, thanks to Timko’s 13 first-half points. Delaware State outscored their rivals in the second half but couldn’t close the gap as Reilly and the Blue Hens held firm.

“This is what rivalry games are all about,” Reilly said after the win. “We knew Delaware State would come out swinging, but we stuck together and finished strong.”

Key Stats:

  • Delaware State University: Smith (22 pts), Robinson (19 pts), Perkins (8 pts).
  • University of Delaware: Reilly (20 pts, 5 reb), Timko (18 pts, 3-6 3PT), Camden (13 pts).

HBCU Original’s Take:

This annual rivalry highlights the intensity and pride of collegiate basketball in Delaware. Delaware State University, an esteemed HBCU, showed heart and resilience but will look to regroup as they prepare to face Morgan State.

Catch more HBCU sports coverage and highlights at HBCU Original—your home for HBCU pride and excellence.

🌐 Visit www.hbcuoriginal.com for full coverage and analysis of HBCU games.

#HBCUOriginal #BattleOfDelaware #DSUvsDelaware #CollegeBasketball #HBCUpride

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MILES Golden Bears Make History with First NCAA Division II Playoff Victory

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In a tightly contested game, Miles College secured its first NCAA Division II playoff victory with a 14-13 win over Carson-Newman in the opening round of the NCAA Super Region Two playoffs. Playing at Sloan-Alumni Stadium for their first-ever home playoff game, the Golden Bears relied on a strong defensive effort to hold off the Eagles. Despite facing challenges late in the game after a fumble gave Carson-Newman one last chance, Miles’ defense came through with a key interception to seal the win.

The Golden Bears got on the board early with a touchdown pass from Kamren Ivory to Jaquel Fells and added a second score on a short run by Jonero Scott. Carson-Newman responded with a rushing touchdown and a field goal, but Miles’ defense kept them from taking the lead. The Eagles had opportunities, including a missed 50-yard field goal and a late-game drive, but the Golden Bears held firm to preserve the victory. With the win, Miles (10-2) extended its school-record win streak to 10 games and advanced to face top-seeded Valdosta State in the next round.

Game Stats: Carson-Newman (9-3) vs. Miles (10-2)

Final Score: Miles 14, Carson-Newman 13

Team Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Final
Carson-Newman 0 10 0 3 13
Miles 7 7 0 0 14

Top Performers

  • Carson-Newman:
    • Passing: Zane Whitson – 76 yards
    • Rushing: Jayden Sullins – 134 yards
    • Receiving: Don Bradley – 37 yards
  • Miles College:
    • Passing: Kamren Ivory – 84 yards
    • Rushing: Jonero Scott – 48 yards, 1 TD
    • Receiving: Travaunta Abner – 36 yards

Game Details

  • Date: November 23, 2024
  • Location: Sloan-Alumni Stadium, Fairfield, Alabama
  • Attendance: 1,726
  • Kickoff Time: 11:00 AM
  • End of Game: 1:40 PM
  • Duration: 2 hours, 40 minutes
  • Weather: Sunny, 55°F, Wind NNW 4 mph
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