Sports
“HBCU Football Week 0 & Week 1: Pre-Game Hype and Key Matchups”
Introduction:
As the 2024 HBCU football season kicks off, Week 0 and Week 1 bring us a host of exciting matchups across all conferences, including the MEAC, SWAC, CIAA, SIAC, and the newly rebranded HBCU Athletic Conference (formerly Gulf Coast Conference). From historic rivalries to key non-conference tests, these early-season games set the tone for what promises to be an electrifying season.
Week 0: Setting the Stage
Week 0 gives us a sneak peek into the upcoming season with a handful of games that will undoubtedly lay the groundwork for what’s to come. Key games to watch include:
- UAB Blazers vs. Alcorn State Braves (08-29-2024): Alcorn State faces a tough test against UAB, a team known for its formidable defense.
- Rutgers Scarlet Knights vs. Howard Bison (08-29-2024): Howard hits the road to take on Rutgers in a game that could showcase the Bison’s potential this season.
Week 1: Full Slate of Action
Week 1 ramps up the excitement with a full slate of games. Every HBCU football fan will have something to cheer for with several high-profile matchups:
- Wake Forest Demon Deacons vs. North Carolina A&T Aggies (08-30-2024): North Carolina A&T aims to prove they can compete with Power 5 schools.
- Arkansas Razorbacks vs. Arkansas-Pine Bluff Golden Lions (08-31-2024): The Golden Lions have a chance to make a statement against an SEC opponent.
Pre-Game Summaries: What to Expect
Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect from each game:
- Bluefield State Big Blues vs. Winston-Salem State Rams (08-31-2024): A CIAA battle that promises to be a defensive struggle.
- Alabama State Hornets vs. North Carolina Central Eagles (09-07-2024): This matchup could be a preview of a future playoff clash, with both teams eyeing conference titles.
Game to Watch: Prairie View A&M vs. Texas Southern
One of the most anticipated games of Week 1 is the SWAC showdown between Prairie View A&M and Texas Southern. This rivalry game is always intense, and with both teams hungry for a strong start, expect fireworks on the field.
Conclusion: The Road Ahead
The early weeks of the 2024 season are crucial for establishing momentum. Whether it’s a powerhouse program defending its title or an underdog looking to upset the big boys, every game counts. HBCU football is more than just a game; it’s a tradition, a culture, and a community. Let’s get ready for a season to remember!
Share Your Thoughts:
Which games are you most excited about? Drop your predictions in the comments and join the conversation as we celebrate the kickoff of another thrilling HBCU football season!
#HBCUFootball #Week0 #Week1 #GameDay #SWAC #MEAC #CIAA #SIAC #GamedayVibes
This post provides a comprehensive overview of the key matchups, offering insights into what fans can expect as they gear up for the 2024 HBCU football season. It’s crafted to engage your audience and spark conversation as the season unfolds.
GAMES TO WATCH OUT FOR++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
1. UAB Blazers vs. Alcorn State Braves
Date: August 29, 2024
Summary:
UAB, coming off a solid 2023 season in Conference USA, will open their 2024 campaign at home against Alcorn State. The Blazers are known for their stout defense, which ranked in the top 25 nationally last season. Alcorn State, representing the SWAC, is looking to build on its previous success and make a statement against an FBS opponent. The Braves’ dynamic offense, led by their dual-threat quarterback, will be key to their chances of pulling off an upset.
2. Wake Forest Demon Deacons vs. North Carolina A&T Aggies
Date: August 30, 2024
Summary:
Wake Forest, a team known for its fast-paced offense in the ACC, faces off against North Carolina A&T, a perennial powerhouse in the MEAC. The Aggies have a strong history of upsets against FBS teams and will be looking to showcase their talent on a bigger stage. With a solid defensive line and a capable running game, North Carolina A&T hopes to slow down the Demon Deacons and control the clock.
3. Arkansas Razorbacks vs. Arkansas-Pine Bluff Golden Lions
Date: August 31, 2024
Summary:
In a battle of in-state rivals, Arkansas will host Arkansas-Pine Bluff. The Razorbacks, competing in the SEC, are looking to start their season with a dominant performance. Pine Bluff, however, will not be easily intimidated. As one of the top programs in the SWAC, they have the potential to make things difficult, especially if their defense can force turnovers and keep the game close.
4. Bluefield State Big Blues vs. Winston-Salem State Rams
Date: August 31, 2024
Summary:
Bluefield State, an independent DII program, will face off against Winston-Salem State from the CIAA. This matchup pits two teams looking to start the season strong. Winston-Salem State, with its storied football tradition, is favored, but Bluefield State’s up-and-coming program could surprise many. Key to the game will be the Rams’ ability to establish their running game early.
5. South Florida Bulls vs. Bethune-Cookman Wildcats
Date: September 1, 2024
Summary:
South Florida will kick off their season by hosting Bethune-Cookman from the SWAC. The Bulls, part of the AAC, have been rebuilding and are looking to regain their competitive edg
e. Bethune-Cookman, meanwhile, will aim to capita
lize on any early-season rust from their FBS oppon
ent. The Wildcats’ success will likely hinge on their ability to execute on special teams and create big plays.
6. Alabama State Hornets vs. North Carolina Central Eagles
Date: September 7, 2024
Summary:
Alabama State takes on North Carolina Central in what promises to be a physical contest. Both teams are highly regarded in their respective conferences, with strong defenses and efficient offenses. Alabama State will look to leverage their home-field advantage, while North Carolina Central will rely on their disciplined approach to control the game’s tempo.
7. Miles Golden Bears vs. Alabama State Hornets
Date: September 7, 2024
Summary:
Alabama State will face Miles College in this Week 2 matchup, providing the Hornets an opportunity to fine-tune their game before heading into conference play. Miles, from the SIAC, will aim to showcase their resilience and compete against a higher division team. The game will be a test of depth and endurance, particularly for the Golden Bears.
8. Rice Owls vs. Texas Southern Tigers
Date: September 14, 2024
Summary:
Rice, from Conference USA, will host Texas Southern from the SWAC in a cross-divisional matchup. The Owls are known for their strong running game, while Texas Southern will be looking to bring their explosive passing attack to the forefront. This game could be a shootout if both offenses find their rhythm early.
9. Samford Bulldogs vs. Alabama State Hornets
Date: September 14, 2024
Summary:
In a matchup featuring two teams known for their physicality, Samford will take on Alabama State. The Bulldogs, from the Southern Conference, are always a tough out, and the Hornets will need to be at their best to secure a win. The game could hinge on which team can win the battle in the trenches.
10. North Carolina Tar Heels vs. North Carolina Central Eagles
Date: September 21, 2024
Summary:
This in-state clash between the ACC’s North Carolina Tar Heels and MEAC’s North Carolina Central Eagles is one of the most anticipated matchups of the season. The Tar Heels, with their high-powered offense, will look to outpace the Eagles, who will rely on a disciplined defense to keep them in the game. This game offers a big opportunity for Central to make a statement on a national stage.
11. Lamar Cardinals vs. Texas Southern Tigers
Date: October 5, 2024
Summary:
Lamar will host Texas Southern in what could be a pivotal game for both programs. The Cardinals, looking to improve their standing in the Southland Conference, will face a Texas Southern team that’s eager to prove itself in the SWAC. The outcome will likely depend on which team can control the line of scrimmage and sustain drives.
12. Virginia Union Panthers vs. Winston-Salem State Rams
Date: October 5, 2024
Summary:
A classic CIAA matchup, Virginia Union and Winston-Salem State are two of the top programs in the conference. This game could have playoff implications, as both teams are expected to contend for the CIAA title. Look for a hard-fought battle with plenty of intensity on both sides of the ball.
13. Texas Southern Tigers vs. Virginia-Lynchburg Mystic Dragons
Date: August 29, 2024
Summary:
Texas Southern will open their season against Virginia-Lynchburg in a non-conference matchup. The Tigers will be looking to establish their offense early and build confidence heading into the heart of their schedule. Virginia-Lynchburg, an independent program, will aim to compete and potentially pull off a surprise.
14. Rutgers Scarlet Knights vs. Howard Bison
Date: August 29, 2024
Summary:
Rutgers, a member of the Big Ten, will host the Howard Bison in a game that pits an FBS powerhouse against one of the MEAC’s storied programs. Howard will look to test themselves against top-tier competition, while Rutgers aims to start the season on a strong note. The Bison’s defense will be crucial in keeping this game competitive.
15. UL Monroe Warhawks vs. Jackson State Tigers
Date: August 31, 2024
Summary:
Jackson State, fresh off a successful season, will travel to take on UL Monroe. The Tigers, who have been a force in the SWAC, will look to challenge the Warhawks of the Sun Belt Conference. The key to the game will be Jackson State’s ability to maintain offensive balance and keep the Warhawks on their heels.
16. Auburn Tigers vs. Alabama A&M Bulldogs
Date: August 31, 2024
Summary:
Alabama A&M faces a tough challenge as they travel to face Auburn, a perennial SEC contender. The Bulldogs will need to execute flawlessly to stay in the game, especially against Auburn’s powerful defense. For Auburn, this game serves as an opportunity to fine-tune their strategy before heading into the SEC schedule.
17. East Carolina Pirates vs. Norfolk State Spartans
Date: August 31, 2024
Summary:
Norfolk State, representing the MEAC, will take on East Carolina from the AAC. The Spartans will look to upset the Pirates by playing disciplined football and capitalizing on any mistakes. East Carolina will aim to overwhelm Norfolk State with their speed and athleticism on both sides of the ball.
18. Vanderbilt Commodores vs. Alcorn State Braves
Date: September 7, 2024
Summary:
Alcorn State faces a tough test against Vanderbilt from the SEC. The Braves will need to be sharp on both offense and defense to keep pace with the Commodores. This game provides an opportunity for Alcorn State to measure themselves against a higher level of competition and showcase their talent on a larger stage.
19. Miami Hurricanes vs. Florida A&M Rattlers
Date: September 7, 2024
Summary:
In a classic Florida matchup, Florida A&M will take on the Miami Hurricanes. The Rattlers, known for their strong tradition in the SWAC, will face an uphill battle against Miami’s speed and depth. However, with a strong showing, Florida A&M can gain valuable experience and potentially put a scare into their in-state rivals.
20. West Virginia State Yellow Jackets vs. Carson-Newman Eagles
Date: September 12, 2024
Summary:
West Virginia State will host Carson-Newman in this early-season non-conference matchup. The Yellow Jackets will look to establish themselves as contenders in their conference, while Carson-Newman will aim to spoil their plans. The key to victory for West Virginia State will be maintaining discipline and executing on both sides of the ball.
**21. Delaware StateContinuing with the remaining pre-game summaries:
21. Delaware State Hornets vs. Wagner Seahawks
Date: September 14, 2024
Summary:
Delaware State travels to face Wagner in what promises to be a competitive game. The Hornets, representing the MEAC, will look to showcase their defensive strength against Wagner, a member of the Northeast Conference. Both teams are known for their physical play, and the winner will likely be the team that can control the line of scrimmage and minimize turnovers.
22. Richmond Spiders vs. Delaware State Hornets
Date: September 21, 2024
Summary:
Delaware State faces a challenging road test against the Richmond Spiders, a strong program in the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA). The Hornets will need to bring their best effort, particularly on defense, to contain Richmond’s balanced attack. For Richmond, this game serves as an opportunity to tune up before diving into conference play.
23. Winston-Salem State Rams vs. Bowie State Bulldogs
Date: September 28, 2024
Summary:
In a key CIAA matchup, Winston-Salem State will take on Bowie State. Both teams have championship aspirations, making this game a crucial early-season contest. Winston-Salem State will rely on their experienced defense to keep Bowie State’s offense in check, while the Bulldogs will look to exploit any weaknesses in the Rams’ secondary.
24. Richmond Spiders vs. North Carolina A&T Aggies
Date: October 5, 2024
Summary:
North Carolina A&T will be tested against Richmond in what should be a closely contested game. The Aggies have a tradition of performing well against strong competition, and this game will be no different. Richmond’s well-rounded team will provide a tough challenge, but North Carolina A&T’s defense could be the key to pulling off an upset.
25. Morehead State Eagles vs. Central State Marauders
Date: August 29, 2024
Summary:
Central State opens their season against Morehead State in what could be an interesting non-conference matchup. The Marauders will look to get their offense going early, while Morehead State will aim to impose their will with a balanced attack. The outcome could hinge on which team can establish a consistent ground game.
26. UAB Blazers vs. Alcorn State Braves
Date: August 30, 2024
Summary:
Alcorn State faces UAB in what will be a tough test for the Braves. UAB’s defense is one of the best in Conference USA, and the Braves will need to find creative ways to move the ball. On the flip side, UAB will look to assert their dominance early, but Alcorn State’s gritty style of play could keep the game closer than expected.
27. Wagner Seahawks vs. Virginia-Lynchburg Mystic Dragons
Date: August 31, 2024
Summary:
Wagner will face Virginia-Lynchburg in a game that should serve as a confidence-builder for the Seahawks. Virginia-Lynchburg, while capable of big plays, will need to play a near-perfect game to keep pace with Wagner. The Mystic Dragons will rely on their speed and special teams to try to create scoring opportunities.
28. Prairie View A&M Panthers vs. Texas Southern Tigers
Date: August 31, 2024
Summary:
This SWAC rivalry game between Prairie View A&M and Texas Southern is one of the most anticipated matchups of the early season. Prairie View A&M, known for their high-powered offense, will look to put up points in bunches, while Texas Southern’s defense will need to step up to keep the game within reach. The game could come down to which team wins the turnover battle.
29. Arkansas Baptist Buffaloes vs. John Melvin Millers
Date: September 1, 2024
Summary:
In this non-conference matchup, Arkansas Baptist takes on John Melvin. Both teams will be looking to establish themselves early in the season, with Arkansas Baptist focusing on their running game, while John Melvin might rely on their passing attack. The game could be decided by which team can control the clock and execute in the red zone.
30. Concord Mountain Lions vs. Bluefield State Big Blues
Date: September 7, 2024
Summary:
Bluefield State will host Concord in a game that promises to be a defensive battle. Both teams have strong defenses, so the game could be a low-scoring affair. Bluefield State will look to get their ground game going, while Concord will try to spread the field with their passing attack.
31. North Carolina A&T Aggies vs. Winston-Salem State Rams
Date: September 7, 2024
Summary:
This matchup between North Carolina A&T and Winston-Salem State features two of the top programs in HBCU football. The Aggies, coming off a strong 2023 season, will look to dominate with their physical style of play. Winston-Salem State, however, has the talent to make this a close game, particularly if their defense can hold up against A&T’s running game.
32. Winston-Salem State Rams vs. Ohio Dominican Panthers
Date: September 14, 2024
Summary:
Winston-Salem State faces Ohio Dominican in what could be a challenging non-conference game. The Panthers have a potent offense that could test the Rams’ secondary. Winston-Salem State will need to control the tempo and keep Ohio Dominican’s offense off the field to have a chance of winning.
33. Michigan State Spartans vs. Prairie View A&M Panthers
Date: September 14, 2024
Summary:
Prairie View A&M travels to take on Michigan State, an opponent from the Big Ten. The Panthers will face a tough challenge against a Spartan team known for their physicality and depth. Prairie View A&M’s best chance for success will be to strike early and try to force Michigan State into mistakes.
34. Virginia State Trojans vs. Winston-Salem State Rams
Date: September 21, 2024
Summary:
Winston-Salem State faces a crucial CIAA matchup against Virginia State. Both teams are considered contenders in the conference, making this game an important one for both programs. Expect a hard-fought, physical game with the winner gaining an early edge in the CIAA standings.
35. Bethune-Cookman Wildcats vs. Alabama State Hornets
Date: September 28, 2024
Summary:
This SWAC showdown between Bethune-Cookman and Alabama State could have major implications for the conference standings. The Wildcats will look to use their speed to outpace the Hornets, while Alabama State will try to control the game with their physical style of play. Special teams could play a crucial role in determining the outcome.
36. Alabama State Hornets vs. Florida A&M Rattlers
Date: October 5, 2024
Summary:
In one of the biggest games on the SWAC calendar, Alabama State takes on Florida A&M. The Rattlers, with their explosive offense, will be looking to put up big numbers, while Alabama State will rely on their strong defense to keep the game close. This game could have major implications for the SWAC East Division title.
ATLANTA, Ga. — Morehouse College continues to make its mark on the national baseball scene as Robert Robinson Jr. and Elijah Pinckney have been selected to compete in the 2026 Minority Baseball Prospects (MBP) HBCU All-Star Game, showcasing two of the nation’s top HBCU baseball talents.
The annual event, set for June 6 at Atrium Health Ballpark in Kannapolis, North Carolina, brings together elite players from Historically Black Colleges and Universities while providing exposure to professional scouts and celebrating the legacy of Black college baseball.
Maroon Tigers Represent on National Stage
Robinson and Pinckney will suit up for Team Wilbert Ellis, named in honor of legendary Grambling State coach Wilbert Ellis, who amassed more than 700 career victories and multiple SWAC championships. They’ll face Team Larry Watkins, recognizing the former Alabama State coach who guided the Hornets to over 500 wins during a distinguished 30-year career.
The selections continue Morehouse’s growing presence in the prestigious showcase. Robinson and Pinckney become the fourth and fifth Maroon Tigers to participate, joining program standouts Derrick Odom, Jaiden Proper, and Casey Coates.
Pinckney also makes history as the first two-time MBP HBCU All-Star selection in Morehouse baseball history, having previously competed in the 2025 event.
Historic Season for Morehouse Baseball
The duo helped power Morehouse to one of its best seasons ever, finishing 25-21 overall and 17-14 in SIAC play. The Maroon Tigers recorded their highest conference finish in nearly 20 years, reached the deepest SIAC Tournament run of the modern era, and earned their first appearance in the Black College Nines Top 10 Poll.
Robinson Emerges as One of SIAC’s Top Sluggers
Junior standout Robert Robinson Jr. put together an outstanding offensive campaign, batting .379 with:
- 58 hits
- 47 runs scored
- 13 home runs
- 44 RBIs
- 9 doubles
- .693 slugging percentage
- .505 on-base percentage
Robinson also displayed exceptional versatility, posting a perfect 1.000 fielding percentage while splitting time between catcher and first base.
His breakout season earned him:
- SIAC First Team Designated Hitter
- SIAC Second Team Catcher
- NCBWA Second Team All-South Region
- D2CCA Second Team All-South Region
Pinckney Caps Legendary Career
Senior shortstop Elijah Pinckney closes his Morehouse career as one of the greatest players in program history.
During the 2026 season, he hit .331 with:
- 51 hits
- 16 doubles
- 38 RBIs
- 36 walks
- .465 on-base percentage
Pinckney earned Second Team All-SIAC honors while also receiving the prestigious SIAC Elite-16 Award, recognizing the conference’s top student-athlete for academic excellence.
His four-year career numbers are equally impressive:
- .370 career batting average
- 214 hits
- 195 runs scored
- 54 doubles
- 134 RBIs
- 52 stolen bases
His impact reached beyond statistics. Pinckney became just the second baseball player in Morehouse history to have his jersey retired and only the third student-athlete in school history to receive that honor.
He also made history as the first NCAA Division II player selected to the HBCU Swingman Classic, while earning the T-Mobile Impact Award and multiple Black College Nines recognitions for his leadership on and off the field.
Building the Future of HBCU Baseball
The MBP HBCU All-Star Game has become one of the premier postseason showcases for HBCU baseball, connecting top student-athletes with professional scouts while celebrating the excellence and tradition of Black college baseball.
For Robinson and Pinckney, the selection is another milestone in remarkable careers and another example of Morehouse Baseball’s continued rise on the national stage. As they head to Kannapolis, they’ll carry the Maroon Tiger legacy while representing the talent, leadership, and academic excellence that define HBCU athletics.
HBCU ORIGINAL
SWAC Stars Take Center Stage: 38 Student-Athletes Selected for 2026 HBCU Swingman Classic
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The Southwestern Athletic Conference will once again have a major presence on one of college baseball’s biggest stages.
A total of 38 SWAC student-athletes have earned selections to the 2026 HBCU Swingman Classic presented by USA Baseball, highlighting the conference’s continued reputation as a pipeline for elite HBCU baseball talent.
Created by Ken Griffey Jr. in partnership with Major League Baseball and USA Baseball, the annual showcase brings together the nation’s top players from Historically Black Colleges and Universities, giving them an opportunity to compete in front of professional scouts while celebrating the rich tradition of HBCU baseball.
Leading the SWAC contingent are Alabama State, Bethune-Cookman, Jackson State, and Southern, each placing five student-athletes on this year’s roster. Every one of the conference’s 12 baseball programs will be represented in the prestigious event.
2026 SWAC HBCU Swingman Classic Selections
Alabama A&M (3)
- Brycen Hammonds
- Anthony McCoy
- Tervel Johnson
Alabama State (5)
- Trey Callaway
- Niguel Jenkins
- Jorhan LaBoy
- Miguel Oropeza
- James Peterson
Alcorn State (1)
- Kanious Davis
Bethune-Cookman (5)
- Jose Fernandez
- Maikol Lucena
- Andray Martinez
- Michael Rodriguez
- Pablo Torres
Florida A&M (4)
- William Brown IV
- Caleb Granger
- Jay Campbell
- Jackson McKenzie
Grambling State (2)
- Cameron Hill
- Chris Marcellus
Jackson State (5)
- Derek Arrocha
- Pierre Cabrel
- Talmadge Davis
- Tyree Reed
- Robert Tate Jr.
Mississippi Valley State (1)
- Eric Williams
Prairie View A&M (1)
- Ryland Duson
Southern (5)
- Myles Dismukes
- Ryan Hunter
- Jaylon Lucky
- Jacoby Radcliffe
- KJ White Jr.
Texas Southern (3)
- Byron Robinson Jr.
- Justin Mays
- Jonathan Trejo
University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff (3)
- Aaron Grant
- Kenny Fabian
- Julian Porter
With representatives from every SWAC program, the conference will once again showcase its depth and talent on a national platform. The HBCU Swingman Classic has quickly become one of the premier events in college baseball, shining a spotlight on HBCU student-athletes while creating valuable opportunities for the next generation of professional players.
For many of these 38 standouts, the Swingman Classic is more than an all-star game—it’s a chance to represent their institutions, their conference, and the legacy of HBCU baseball on one of the sport’s biggest stages.
ATLANTA, Ga. — Morehouse College student-athlete Jaelon “J.T.” Ridley has been selected as a recipient of the prestigious 2026 Dr. Charles L. Sifford Scholarship, recognizing his academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to excellence both on and off the golf course.
The Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) announced that Ridley was chosen as one of only 12 students nationwide for the scholarship’s fourth cohort. The recipients were selected from a highly competitive pool of applicants representing Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across the country.
Ridley recently completed his first season competing for the Morehouse Maroon Tigers and now joins an elite group of scholars carrying forward the legacy of one of golf’s most influential pioneers.
Established in 2022, the Dr. Charles L. Sifford Scholarship Fund honors the groundbreaking achievements of Dr. Charles “Charlie” L. Sifford, who became the first Black golfer to earn a PGA Tour card in 1961. The scholarship was created to help support tuition expenses for students attending HBCUs and those enrolled in accredited PGA of America Golf Management Programs.
For Ridley, the recognition represents more than financial assistance. It connects him to a legacy of perseverance, opportunity, and progress in a sport where African Americans have historically faced significant barriers.
The scholarship is supported by the Cobbs Creek Foundation, which serves as the fund’s fiscal sponsor. The historic Philadelphia golf course holds a special place in golf history, having welcomed Black and women golfers since its founding in 1916 and serving as the home course of Dr. Sifford during his years as a Philadelphia resident.
Ridley’s selection highlights the continued impact HBCU student-athletes are making in collegiate athletics and beyond. As Morehouse College continues to develop leaders in every field, Ridley’s accomplishment stands as another example of the excellence found throughout HBCU campuses nationwide.
The honor not only celebrates Ridley’s achievements but also reinforces the importance of creating pathways that support future generations of Black golfers, scholars, and leaders.
With the support of the Sifford Scholarship, Ridley joins a growing community of students dedicated to carrying forward the values of academic excellence, leadership, and service that have long defined both Morehouse College and the HBCU experience.
The Allstate HBCU Legacy Bowl is entering a new era.
The Black College Football Hall of Fame has officially announced that the premier HBCU postseason all-star game will relocate from New Orleans to Atlanta beginning in 2027. The sixth annual HBCU Legacy Bowl is scheduled to take place on February 27, 2027, at Center Parc Stadium in downtown Atlanta.
Since its launch in 2021, the HBCU Legacy Bowl has become one of the most important showcases for draft-eligible HBCU football players, giving student-athletes the opportunity to perform in front of NFL scouts, coaches, and executives from all 32 NFL teams.
According to event organizers, the move to Atlanta is designed to create greater opportunities for athletes, coaches, students, and corporate partners while expanding the reach of the event’s highly successful Career Fair.
“Atlanta represents tremendous growth and opportunity for the Allstate HBCU Legacy Bowl and the young people we serve,” said Doug Williams, Super Bowl XXII MVP and co-founder of the Black College Football Hall of Fame. “We believe this next chapter will elevate the experience for our students, fans, partners, and NFL scouts while continuing to honor the proud traditions and lasting impact of HBCU football.”
Williams and fellow Black College Football Hall of Fame co-founder James “Shack” Harris launched the HBCU Legacy Bowl in 2021. Over the past five years, the event has been hosted at Tulane University’s Yulman Stadium in New Orleans with support from the NFL and the New Orleans Saints organization.
The game features top talent from HBCU programs across the country, including players from the SWAC, MEAC, CIAA, SIAC, independent HBCUs, and NAIA programs. Participants are divided into Team Gaither and Team Robinson, named after legendary coaches Jake Gaither and Eddie G. Robinson.
Beyond football, the HBCU Legacy Bowl has established itself as a powerful platform for career development. The annual Career Fair connects HBCU students and graduates with leading employers, professional organizations, and networking opportunities that extend well beyond the playing field.
“Atlanta offers increased accessibility, expanded accommodations, and a broader platform to continue growing the impact of our mission,” organizers noted.
James “Shack” Harris emphasized the importance of continued support from Allstate, stating that the partnership has helped transform the event into a premier opportunity for HBCU student-athletes while creating meaningful career pathways for students and graduates.
With Atlanta’s rich HBCU culture, thriving business community, and status as a major transportation hub, many believe the move will further elevate the national profile of the HBCU Legacy Bowl and the talented athletes it showcases.
As the event prepares for its next chapter, one thing remains unchanged: its mission to celebrate HBCU excellence while opening doors to opportunities both on and off the field.
Former HBCU basketball standout Xavier Mills is continuing to expand his presence in Hollywood, landing another notable role that further elevates his growing acting career.
Mills, a former player at Winston-Salem State University, appears in the new Amazon/MGM thriller Is God Is, sharing the screen with Emmy-winning actor Sterling K. Brown. In the film, Mills plays Brown’s son, marking one of his most high-profile roles to date.
The project adds another major credit to a résumé that is quickly gaining momentum across film and television. Adapted from Aleshea Harris’ award-winning stage play, Is God Is centers on a dark, revenge-driven narrative rooted in family trauma and emotional intensity, featuring a cast that also includes Vivica A. Fox and Erika Alexander.
For Mills, the opportunity represents more than just another acting job—it is another step in a transition from athlete to working actor on major productions.
The Greenville, North Carolina native has been steadily building his profile in the entertainment industry. Many audiences first became familiar with him through his role as football player Nishan Leonard in Hulu’s Chad Powers, with Mills also set to return for the show’s upcoming second season.
His athletic background remains a defining part of his on-screen identity. Mills has spoken about how his experience as a college athlete helps him bring authenticity to sports-related roles, emphasizing discipline, preparation, and mindset.
He has also appeared alongside Wanda Sykes in Undercard and is expected to feature in Netflix’s upcoming project Fight for 84, further broadening his portfolio across genres.
Working on Is God Is also gave Mills the chance to learn from seasoned performers like Sterling K. Brown, whom he has credited with teaching him the importance of preparation, presence, and composure on set.
As his career continues to evolve, Mills represents a growing wave of former HBCU athletes finding new lanes in entertainment while carrying their athletic discipline into creative spaces.
For Mills, the mission remains centered on growth, faith, and longevity—both on screen and beyond it.
Credit: Story originally reported by Steven J. Gaither, HBCU Gameday (via Kansas City Star / McClatchy distribution) | Updated May 25, 2026
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