HBCU ORIGINAL
Football’s Growing Problem: Brawls and Unsportsmanship Across the Gridiron—From the NFL to HBCUs
A week of explosive clashes on the football field has captured the attention of sports fans and analysts alike, sparking a growing concern over the state of sportsmanship in the game. From the NFL’s Kansas City Chiefs vs. Buffalo Bills showdown to FCS Towson vs. North Carolina A&T to HBCU FCS rivalries like Jackson State vs. Alabama State and HBCU D2 rivalries like Virginia Union vs. Virginia State, every level of football is witnessing an alarming uptick in brawls. The college scene isn’t immune either, as even Nebraska‘s FBS matchup with USC saw its heated moments, adding to the growing list of incidents. For HBCUs, there were even more concerns with Howard vs. NCCU and Florida A&M vs. Prairie View, all ending with brawls. It’s time to talk about what is going on with football, the rising aggression, and the growing question of unsportsmanlike conduct taking over the game.
The Week of Chaos: From the NFL to HBCUs:
The week was marked by multiple altercations on the field that have left fans, coaches, and administrators reeling. In the NFL, the Kansas City Chiefs faced the Buffalo Bills in a hard-fought contest that boiled over into a series of fights. It wasn’t just a few pushes or trash talk—full-blown brawls resulted in player suspensions and calls for more decisive disciplinary action. But it wasn’t just the pros where tempers flared. In the FCS, North Carolina A&T took on Towson in a fierce game where multiple players threw punches. At the same time, Jackson State and Alabama State—with Jackson State clinching the SWAC conference will head to the upcoming Black College Championship against South Carolina State with a few suspensions. The MEAC, SWAC, and CIAA have all condemned the actions strongly, with calls to disqualify players and implement suspensions after reviewing game footage.
The Impact on HBCU Football:
HBCUs have long been revered for their history, culture, and the pride they bring to their communities. The idea of football brawls tarnishing the tradition of HBCU football is deeply troubling to many who value the integrity and discipline in these programs. In a time when HBCUs are pushing for greater exposure and recognition, mainly through televised games and streaming platforms, incidents like these jeopardize the positive momentum these programs have built.
The SWAC, MEAC, and CIAA are united in their stance against this growing problem. After reviewing the incidents, officials from these conferences have announced their intention to suspend and possibly disqualify players involved in fights. This level of condemnation is unprecedented, signaling how seriously these conferences are taking the issue of unsportsmanlike behavior. These aren’t just isolated incidents; they are part of a troubling trend creeping into every level of football, threatening the foundation of what has always been considered the essence of the game.
The Professional and College Landscape: A Growing Concern:
At the professional level, the NFL has long grappled with players who let their emotions get the best of them, but what’s disturbing is that this behavior is increasingly spilling into college football. What used to be a rare occurrence is now becoming a norm. The question is, why? Is it the pressure of the game? The influence of social media? Or is it simply a breakdown in teaching discipline and respect for the game?
What is clear is that football is becoming more than just a physical battle—it’s an emotional one. As fans and players watch each other on screens, an increasing sense of competition goes beyond the scoreboard. The rise of trash talk, taunting, and heightened aggression has shifted the focus from athleticism and strategy to spectacle and showmanship. While some argue that the intensity of the game is what makes it exciting, others are concerned that this fiery atmosphere is spilling over into dangerous territory.
Can Football Survive This Storm?
With major networks and streaming platforms showcasing these games, the eyes of the world are on football like never before. However, this newfound visibility is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it provides a stage for athletes to showcase their skills. On the other hand, it amplifies negative moments, making brawls and unsportsmanlike conduct more visible and challenging to ignore.
The question is: Can football at every level prevent these incidents from becoming the new normal? Will disciplinary actions by the HBCUs, the NFL, and other football organizations curb this troubling trend? Or will this behavior continue to escalate until the very integrity of the sport is threatened?
As football continues to grow in popularity and reach, it’s time for a serious conversation about the direction of the sport. While the intensity and passion of the game should always be celebrated, there needs to be a renewed focus on discipline, respect, and sportsmanship. The brawls seen across the NFL, FBS, FCS, and HBCUs this week are a warning sign that cannot be ignored. It’s time for football to reclaim its honor—before it loses its soul.
Campus
Delaware State Hornets vs Delaware Blue Hens | DeSean Jackson’s Coaching Debut & FBS Era Begins
NEWARK, Del. – All eyes will be on Delaware Stadium Thursday night as Delaware State University, one of the MEAC’s proud HBCUs, takes the field against in-state rival Delaware in the season opener. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m., with the Hornets aiming to make a statement against a Blue Hens program stepping onto the FBS stage for the first time.
The Hornets enter a new era under head coach DeSean Jackson, the three-time NFL Pro Bowl wide receiver making his college coaching debut. Jackson, who brings star power and energy to Dover, has also brought in big names to his staff, including former NFL running back Clinton Portis as RB coach.
On offense, Delaware State will look to transfer talent to spark a turnaround. Kaiden Bennett (Sacramento State) leads the quarterback competition, joined by Maryland transfer Jayden Sauray and veteran Marqui Adams. The Hornets’ challenge is steep—they’ve won just two games in the past two seasons—but with new leadership and fresh fire, this opener represents a chance to reset the program’s direction.
Meanwhile, Delaware’s Blue Hens have the spotlight as they begin life in Conference USA and at the FBS level. Head coach Ryan Carty has an impressive track record, going 22-1 in home openers as both a player and coach. The Hens return experience on both sides of the ball, including QB Nick Minicucci, WR Ja’Carree Kelly, and defensive standouts Jack Hall, Gavin Moul, and Hasson Manning Jr.
But make no mistake—the story Thursday night is bigger than a debut. It’s about Delaware State stepping onto the state’s biggest stage with new leadership, looking to shock their rival and show what HBCU football can do against an FBS opponent. For the Hornets, a win wouldn’t just be an upset—it would be a program-changing moment.
Fans can secure tickets at BlueHens.com/fbtickets to witness history unfold in Newark.
ATLANTA, Ga. — Three different Eagles found the end zone on the ground Saturday night as North Carolina Central University opened the 2025 season with a commanding 31-14 win over Southern University in the Cricket MEAC/SWAC Challenge Kick-Off at Center Parc Stadium.
With the victory, the Eagles (1-0) captured their second straight win in the MEAC/SWAC Challenge, while the MEAC improved to 12-7 all-time in the season-opening classic. HBCU Original was down on the field capturing every angle of the action, the fans, and the culture that made Atlanta the center of the HBCU football world.
First Half Fireworks
NCCU struck first, marching 80 yards on the opening drive and chewing nearly half the quarter before Arthur Rodgers, Jr. punched in a one-yard touchdown. Quarterback Walker Harris sparked the drive with an 18-yard scamper that set up the score.
Southern answered quickly when Cam’Ron McCoy broke free for a 69-yard touchdown run, tying the game at 7-7 with just over six minutes left in the opening quarter.
After a 31-yard field goal from Kaleb Robison gave NCCU a 10-7 edge, Southern landed a big blow late in the half. Trey Holly sprinted 80 yards untouched to put the Jaguars ahead 14-10. But the lead was short-lived.
On the very next drive, Chris Mosley delivered a lightning strike of his own — a 49-yard touchdown run in just nine seconds. With Robison’s extra point, NCCU carried a 17-14 lead into halftime.
Eagles Take Control
The second half belonged to the Eagles. A quick three-and-out forced by the defense led to excellent field position, and Harris capitalized with his first touchdown pass of 2025 — a three-yard strike to Kyle Morgan, extending the lead to 24-14.
Later in the third quarter, Aleni Mageo powered in from six yards out, giving NCCU a 31-14 cushion. From there, the defense clamped down, holding Southern scoreless for the final 31:57 of the contest.
Stats That Tell the Story
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Total Offense: NCCU 414 yards (231 rushing, 183 passing)
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Chris Mosley: Career night with 174 rushing yards and a touchdown
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Walker Harris: 19 completions, 183 yards, 1 passing TD, plus 18 yards rushing
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Eagle Defense: Led by Thomas Johnson with 7 tackles, 2 TFLs, a QB hurry, a forced fumble, and a recovery
What’s Next
North Carolina Central returns home for its 2025 home opener on Saturday, Aug. 30, hosting New Hampshire at O’Kelly-Riddick Stadium. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. on ESPN+.
HBCU ORIGINAL
North Carolina A&T Prepares for Record Enrollment with $30 Million in Campus Upgrades | Preparing for the Largest Enrollment in HBCU History
By Steven J. Gaither | HBCU Gameday
Updated August 15, 2025, 1:53 AM
North Carolina A&T, the nation’s largest HBCU, has completed $30 million in residence hall enhancements just in time for the 2025-26 academic year. The upgrades come as the university gears up for an anticipated enrollment of more than 15,000 students in 2026.
Major Infrastructure Improvements
The university prioritized key maintenance projects across its housing facilities. Crews serviced 1,500 HVAC units, completed mold remediation in nearly 420 rooms, and finished over 60 plumbing, electrical, roofing, and locksmithing projects. Drone inspections also identified areas in need of pressure washing and cosmetic repairs, ensuring a fresher look to both buildings and outdoor spaces.
Student-Requested Amenities
In addition to critical repairs, A&T launched a new category of “student satisfaction improvements.” The university invested $250,000 in items requested directly by students—ranging from video game systems and ice machines to upgraded lounges. Future amenities will continue to be shaped by student feedback, including input from resident assistants and student government.
Technology for Living and Learning
Digital infrastructure received a significant boost as well. Six residence halls were upgraded with new network cabling, while 42 apartment complexes gained new WiFi access points. On the academic side, the university updated 1,538 lab computers, enhanced technology in 46 smart classrooms, and validated 208 additional classrooms to ensure readiness for the school year.
Strengthening Residential Support
A&T has also reinforced its housing and residence life operations. Key staff positions were filled to support student wellness and daily residential needs. The university adopted the Roompact software platform to streamline housing communication and operations.
“Students compete to get into A&T housing,” said John Lowney, Executive Director of Housing and Residence Life. “We fully appreciate our responsibility to ensure it is attractive, comfortable, safe, and healthy.”
Preparing for the Largest Enrollment in HBCU History
More than half of A&T’s undergraduates live on campus—double the national public university average. As enrollment grows, the university’s commitment to quality housing remains central. A partnership with Toyota North Carolina, through the Aggie Bridge Initiative, will further analyze and improve student service processes.
With new amenities, stronger technology, and expanded support systems, North Carolina A&T is set to welcome students back to a campus experience that reflects its academic excellence—and reaffirms its status as the largest HBCU in the nation.
By Tolly Carr – HBCU Gameday | Updated August 6, 2025
At just ten years old, Kendall Rae Johnson—Georgia’s youngest certified farmer—has earned a full scholarship to South Carolina State University (SC State), one of the nation’s leading HBCUs. The award honors her exceptional achievements in agriculture and reflects HBCUs’ commitment to nurturing the next generation of Black leaders.
A Campus Visit Turned Life-Changer
While touring 1890 land-grant HBCUs with her family, Kendall Rae visited SC State’s 300-acre Research & Demonstration Farm in Orangeburg, SC. There, she met SC State President Alexander Conyers, who surprised her with the 1890 Agriculture Innovation Scholarship—valued at $83,598—covering tuition, fees, and room and board.
President Conyers praised her dedication:
“We were blown away by Kendall Rae’s focus and maturity. She speaks with passion about crop cycles, soil health, and even longhorn cattle. Her future is bright.”
From Backyard Garden to Certified Farmer
Kendall Rae’s farming journey began at age 3 alongside her great-grandmother. By 6, she became Georgia’s youngest certified farmer. Now, she manages nearly an acre of land, growing strawberries, tomatoes, apples, okra, and more. Her accomplishments have drawn national attention, inspiring other young people to explore agriculture.
Leading Through Education and Advocacy
Kendall Rae founded Kendall Rae’s Green Heart, a nonprofit teaching children about farming, sustainability, and entrepreneurship. As a USDA National Urban Agriculture Youth Ambassador, she champions food justice and agricultural education. Her father, Quentin Johnson, credits her for transforming their family’s lifestyle:
“She pulled me into this. Now we’re all growing together—literally.”
Big Goals for the Future
Kendall Rae dreams of owning at least 100 acres of farmland and raising longhorn cattle. She’s particularly excited about SC State’s international agriculture programs, including goat research in The Gambia.
During her visit, she told staff with a smile:
“I’ll be back in 10 years to see all the new buildings.”
With SC State investing over $250 million in campus development, her timing may be perfect.
The HBCU Impact
This scholarship is a testament to the role HBCUs play in identifying and supporting young Black innovators long before college. President Conyers believes Kendall Rae will make an enduring mark:
“Kendall Rae Johnson is exactly the kind of student we want to support. She’s a future leader—here at SC State and beyond.”
By DJ Beal
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The Knothole Foundation is proud to present the 6th Annual Diversity in Baseball HBCU Showcase, bringing together more than 70 talented high school athletes for an opportunity to display their skills in front of college coaches—many representing Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
This two-day showcase will run Wednesday, August 13th, and Thursday, August 14th, starting each day at 8:00 AM at the Richard “Stick” Williams Dream Fields & Education Center. Players will participate in on-field instruction, live batting practice, offensive and defensive drills, and more. The second day will feature simulated games, giving athletes a chance to demonstrate their abilities in real-game situations.
In addition to on-field activities, participants will take part in the “Lunch & Learn” series, a special life skills program that includes panel discussions with coaches and other leaders offering guidance on both sports and life beyond the game.
High school baseball players interested in learning more about the event can visit knotholecarolinas.org for details.
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