Sports
Ray Ray Award for Defensive Player of the Year: HBCU Nominees
URA Sports Show Introduces the Ray Ray Award for Defensive Player of the Year: HBCU Nominees
In a groundbreaking move that puts the power in the hands of the fans, URA Sports Show proudly announces the creation of the Ray Ray Award – Defensive Player of the Year. This prestigious honor celebrates exceptional defensive performances in college football, allowing fans—not media insiders or sportswriters—to choose who truly stands out on the defensive side of the ball.
Why the Ray Ray Award?
The Ray Ray Award was inspired by the legendary legacy of one of football’s most iconic defenders. While legal restrictions prevented using the exact name, the award pays homage to a relentless, game-changing spirit reminiscent of Hall of Fame linebacker Ray Lewis of the Baltimore Ravens.
How It Works
The selection process is refreshingly simple and democratic:
Nominees Announced: Throughout the college football season, standout defensive players will be nominated based on their on-field dominance, leadership, and game-altering plays.
Fan Voting: Fans will vote online to decide who deserves the title of the year’s best defensive player. The power rests entirely in the hands of the people who live and breathe college football.
What the Award Represents
The Ray Ray Award isn’t just about stats—it’s about heart, grit, and the will to dominate. It’s a platform to pay homage to top athletes who are household names and athletes who may not get the traditional media spotlight but prove themselves as forces to be reckoned with.
When and Where
The inaugural Ray Ray Award winner will be announced during the highly anticipated URA Sports Awards Show hosted by NFL Veteran Derrick Tatum and CEO of Elite Talent Football Podcast. The night will be dedicated to recognizing the most electrifying college football performances at the FBS and HBCU levels, with plans to expand to FCS, Div 2, and High School in the future.
Get Involved!
Stay tuned for updates on nominees and voting dates by following the URA Sports Show (@urafootballshow) and Elite Talent Football (@elitetalentfootball) on social media and on our website, www.underrecruitedathlete.com.
HBCU Ray Ray Award Nominees
Kenny Gallop Jr.
Position: Defensive Back (DB)
Class: Graduate Student
Hometown: Portsmouth, Virginia
Kenny Gallop Jr., a standout defensive back for Howard University, has had a remarkable collegiate career. Gallop’s achievements include being a three-time HBCU All-American, a rarity for defensive players, and receiving the 2023 MEAC Defensive Player of the Year award. Over his career, he has tallied 325 tackles, 20 tackles for loss, 15 pass breakups, and multiple sacks and forced turnovers.
Gallop has also been named to prestigious watch lists such as the Buck Buchanan Award and was selected to participate in the 2025 HBCU Legacy Bowl, a showcase for top talent. These accolades underscore his impact and leadership on the field, as he consistently excelled in both defense and team dynamics.
Ckelby Givens
Position: Defensive Back (DL)
Class: Junior
Hometown: Shreveport, Louisiana
Ckelby Givens, a standout defensive lineman for Southern University, has been a dominant force in the SWAC conference. His exceptional performances throughout the 2024 season earned him the title of SWAC Co-Defensive Player of the Year, sharing the honor with Grambling State’s Andrew Jones. Givens has also been a finalist for the prestigious HBCU+ National Player of the Year Award, showcasing his impact within the conference and across HBCU football nationally.
Known for his strength, agility, and relentless pursuit of quarterbacks, Givens has consistently disrupted opposing offenses, solidifying his reputation as one of the top defensive players in the FCS. His leadership on the field and ability to make game-changing plays have made him a cornerstone of Southern’s defensive unit.
Andrew Jones
Position: Linebacker (LB)
Class: Redshirt Junior
Hometown: Marrero, Louisiana
Andrew Jones, a standout linebacker for Grambling State University, had an extraordinary 2024 season that earned him national recognition. A redshirt junior from Marrero, Louisiana, Jones recorded 122 total tackles, 20.5 tackles for loss, and three sacks. His performance placed him first in tackles within the SWAC and sixth nationally, with his tackles for loss ranking second in the conference and fourth in FCS football. He also contributed one forced fumble, one fumble recovery, and a defensive touchdown, highlighting his versatility and playmaking ability.
Jones was named the SWAC Co-Defensive Player of the Year and was a finalist for the prestigious Buck Buchanan Award, which recognizes the top defensive player in Division I FCS football. Throughout the season, he delivered double-digit tackles in 10 of 12 games, including a season-high 15 against Alabama A&M. Additionally, he was a three-time SWAC Defensive Player of the Week honoree, and a finalist for the HBCU+ Player of the Year Award, solidifying his position as one of the top defensive players in the country.
Jalen McClendon
Position: Defensive Back (DB)
Class: Redshirt Junior
Hometown: Tampa, Florida
Jalen McClendon is a standout defensive back for Tennessee State University. This season, he has showcased his talent in the Tigers’ secondary with 53 total tackles, 45 of them solo. He also tallied 12 pass breakups and an interception, demonstrating his ability to disrupt plays and provide substantial coverage. McClendon achieved much of this while playing through a hand injury, underscoring his resilience and commitment.
His performances earned him a spot on the HBCU+ Player of the Year Watchlist and recognition as a finalist for the prestigious Buck Buchanan Award, which honors the best defensive player in FCS football. These accolades highlight his impact on the field and his potential as a Tennessee State defense leader.
Elijah Williams
Position: Defensive Lineman (DL)
Class: Senior
Hometown: Jersey City, New Jersey
Elijah Williams, a senior defensive lineman at Morgan State University, has cemented his legacy as one of the program’s most dominant players. Standing at 6’3″ and weighing 270 pounds, the Jersey City, NJ native was named the 2024 MEAC Defensive Player of the Year. Williams recorded an impressive 11 sacks this season, ranking 8th nationally, along with 15 tackles for loss, three interceptions, and 32 total tackles. His contributions helped lead Morgan State to its best season in a decade, finishing 6-6 overall and 3-2 in MEAC play.
Over his career, Williams set Morgan State’s all-time records for both sacks (31.0) and tackles for loss (52.0). His versatility and big-play ability extended beyond traditional defensive stats, including a blocked field goal and creating turnovers. His efforts earned him recognition as a finalist for the prestigious Buck Buchanan Award and the honor of the HBCU+ National Player of the Year.
Rico, Dozier
Position: Linebacker (LB)
Class: Senior
Hometown: Abbeville, Alabama
Rozier Dozier, a linebacker for Alabama State University, is an accomplished player with a proven track record in college football. Originally hailing from Abbeville, Alabama, he transferred from the University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff, where he earned multiple accolades, including All-SWAC and Phil Steele All-SWAC honors. In 2023, he led the SWAC with 125 tackles and contributed 2.5 sacks and 6.5 tackles for loss, showcasing his ability to make impactful plays in the backfield and across the field.
At Alabama State, Dozier continues to be a key defensive leader, with his relentless playing style and high football IQ making him a standout in the SWAC and beyond.
Stemarion, Edwards
Position: Linebacker (LB)
Class: Senior
Hometown: Hollandale, Mississippi
Stemarion Edwards is a linebacker for Alcorn State University. Known for his athleticism and versatility, Edwards has been a key contributor to the Braves’ defense. He demonstrates strong tackling ability and field awareness, contributing to stopping the run and defending against passes. Edwards’s leadership and high football IQ have made him a standout on the field, helping anchor the team’s defensive unit in crucial moments. His performance highlights his potential as a reliable playmaker in collegiate football.
AJ, Richardson
Position: Linebacker (LB)
Class: Sophomore
Hometown: Kings Mountain, North Carolina
AJ Richardson, a standout linebacker for Norfolk State University, has made waves with his exceptional performances in the 2024 season. A Kings Mountain, North Carolina, Richardson sophomore led the MEAC in total tackles with an impressive 100 stops, including 30 solo tackles. His breakout game came against Towson, where he recorded a career-high 18 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, and an interception that set up a Norfolk State touchdown. This dominant display earned him the Stats Perform FCS National Defensive Player of the Week award.
His consistent play throughout the season secured him First-Team All-MEAC honors, highlighting his growing reputation as a Spartan defensive force. With his instinctive playmaking ability and relentless motor, Richardson has become a cornerstone of Norfolk State’s defense and one of the top linebackers in the conference.
Dominating the 2024 MEAC Championship
The Hornets entered the NCAA Tournament as champions of the 2024 Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), a title they clinched with a thrilling victory in the conference championship. Their dominant performance throughout the season culminated in an electrifying MEAC tournament, where standout players like [Player Name], the MEAC Player of the Year, and [Player Name], the conference’s Defensive Specialist of the Year, led the charge. Head coach [Coach’s Name] orchestrated a balanced attack and a tenacious defense, making the Hornets a formidable force.
First-Round Challenge Against Penn State
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. – No. 2 Penn State Women’s Volleyball hit .456 as it cruised to a 3-0 (25-4, 25-20, 25-18) sweep over Delaware State in the opening round of the 2024 NCAA Tournament on Friday night at Rec Hall. The Nittany Lions improved to 30-2, while the Hornets closed their season at 17-14. Delaware State, which advanced to the NCAA Tournament as the MEAC champion for the second time in three seasons, was led by Valeria Otero and Gerren Tomlin with six kills apiece. Tomlin and Paige Ahakuelo each had three aces. Despite the loss, the Hornets fought hard against a dominant Penn State team.
Penn State’s strong serving gave Delaware State fits, as the Nittany Lions piled up 12 aces, with Jess Mruzik contributing four and Ava Falduto and Anjelina Starck adding three each. The Hornets were held to .080 hitting as Penn State’s defense, led by Gillian Grimes with 14 digs, proved to be a significant challenge. Delaware State’s resilience and effort in the face of such a formidable opponent reflected their growth and determination as a program.
A Bright Future Ahead
This historic run signals a new era for Delaware State volleyball. With a core group of talented underclassmen and a strong recruiting class on the horizon, the program is poised for continued success. The Hornets’ 2024 NCAA Tournament appearance not only elevated the team’s profile but also shone a spotlight on the university’s commitment to athletic excellence. As the Hornets look to build on this year’s achievements, they’ve set a new standard for the program and inspired a new generation of athletes to dream big. The Delaware State community can’t wait to see what’s next for this rising powerhouse.
Sports
The JUCO Comeback: Diego Pavia Defeats the NCAA, Joe Thomas Sr. the Poster Child for ‘I Still Got It!
In a surprising twist that’s shaking up college football, the NCAA has found itself in the middle of a significant eligibility shake-up — and it’s all thanks to a landmark legal case involving a player who probably hasn’t been on most fans’ radar. Enter Diego Pavia, whose legal battle with the NCAA over his JUCO eligibility is why former players across the country are suddenly dusting off their old cleats and asking, “If Diego can do it, why can’t I?”
Pavia, a former JUCO quarterback, defeated the NCAA in court, securing a monumental victory for players who’ve spent time in junior college but were previously told their eligibility was shot after too many years had passed. The court issued an injunction, effectively allowing Pavia to continue his college career despite being out of the game for several years. And while Pavia’s case was all about fairness for JUCO players, it had an unintended side effect — the rise of a new generation of “washed-up” former players coming out of retirement to reclaim their eligibility.
The Lawsuit That Changed Everything
In what is being called a “game-changer” by legal experts, Diego Pavia’s victory has opened the door for a wave of former JUCO players to declare, “Hey, I’ll get it suddenly!” Pavia filed a lawsuit after the NCAA refused to grant him eligibility, citing an obscure rule that prevented players who’d been out of college football for too long from getting their eligibility back. But the court didn’t see it that way. The ruling was clear: JUCO players deserve the same four years of eligibility, no matter how much time has passed.
Pavia’s victory sent shockwaves through the world of college sports, and suddenly, every former JUCO athlete with a few grey hairs and a dad bod began to rethink their retirement plans.
Joe Thomas Sr. Becomes the New Poster Child for “I Can Still Play!”
And here’s where things get genuinely hilarious. While Pavia’s case was about fairness, it’s Joe Thomas Sr. who became the unintentional poster child for this new wave of players. If you haven’t heard of Joe Thomas Sr., he’s about to be your new hero — and probably the last person you’d expect to inspire a generation of older, “washed-up” football players.
In his late 40s, Thomas made history as the oldest player to ever play in a Division I football game, suiting up as a running back for HBCU MEAC member South Carolina State University — the team that was the runner-up in the 2024 Black College Football Championship Celebration Bowl just a week ago in Atlanta, Georgia. At 47 years old, Thomas wasn’t exactly burning up the field, but with sheer determination and the legal win from Diego Pavia’s case, Joe Thomas Sr. proved that age is just a number and there’s always room for a little more football. He wasn’t sprinting down the field, but he was running. Slowly, yes — but running nonetheless.
And now, thanks to Pavia’s case, older athletes — some who haven’t played in years — are desperate to follow in Thomas’ footsteps.
A New Era of “Senior” JUCO Comebacks
Just imagine the scene: Bob “The Bulldozer” from the Class of 1997, who hasn’t touched a football since his last campus kegger, suddenly jumps on Facebook and posts a picture of his high school highlight reel, claiming, “Hey, Joe Thomas Sr. did it. I’m ready for my comeback.” You might even catch Terry “The Tornado” from 2002 hitting up coaches on LinkedIn to see if they need a “veteran” player with lots of wisdom and a few extra pounds.
All these “veteran” players now have Diego Pavia’s lawsuit to thank and Joe Thomas Sr.’s legendary comeback story. There’s a whole new crop of 40-something men who now think they can still make it, and they’ll be referencing Joe Thomas Sr. as the prime example of why age is just a number.
The NCAA’s Worst Nightmare: The Rise of the Senior League
The NCAA never could have predicted this: a flood of older players showing up at their doorsteps, paperwork in hand, demanding to be let back into college football. Thanks to Pavia and Thomas, the NCAA is now facing a new problem: how to handle an influx of athletes who have been out of the game for years, if not decades, but now want to take advantage of the rule change.
“Coach, I’m 45, but if you put me on the field, I’ll show you a thing or two,” might just be the following line you hear from the new batch of JUCO hopefuls. And college football programs? They’re about to be flooded with email inquiries from players who were once “too old” but now have a new lease on their football careers.
Thanks to Diego Pavia’s legal win, the NCAA’s new ruling, and the unexpected rise of Joe Thomas Sr. as the face of “I Still Got It,” we’re about to enter an extraordinary era of college football. A new wave of former JUCO players, who have long since hung up their helmets, are now determined to return to the field. Whether it’s Bob “The Bulldozer“ or Terry “The Tornado,“ expect to see a lot more grey-haired players showing up to recruit camps, proclaiming they’ve got “untapped potential“ — and that Joe Thomas Sr. paved the way for them to show it.
Who knows? The next Joe Thomas Sr. might be an ex-JUCO player sitting on a recliner right now, talking about how “he was the best running back in his prime“ — and now, with the new NCAA rule, that prime might extend a few more years.
Northwestern narrowly defeated Howard 68-66 in the third-place game of the Hawk Classic, bouncing back after a tough loss to Charleston the day before. The Wildcats (7-5, 0-1 B1G) overcame a second-half push from the Bison (6-8, 0-0 MEAC) to secure the victory.
The star of the game was Mel Daley, who delivered a stellar 16-point performance on 7-for-12 shooting, including the Wildcats’ final three field goals. Grace Sullivan also scored 16 points, while Casey Harter and Caleigh Walsh added 11 points each. Taylor Williams led on the boards with 11 rebounds but fouled out midway through the fourth quarter.
For Howard, Destiny Howell and Saniyah King paced the offense with 14 and 13 points, respectively. Nile Miller contributed nine points and eight rebounds, as the Bison collectively pulled down 40 rebounds to Northwestern’s 36.
The game was a battle of momentum swings, with both teams relying on clutch plays and key defensive stops. Northwestern capitalized on Daley’s late-game heroics and a strong second-half performance to hold off Howard. The Wildcats’ defense stood firm in the final seconds, with Caleigh Walsh blocking a potential game-winning three-pointer from Destiny Howell to seal the win.
With the victory, Northwestern takes home third place in the Hawk Classic and will host Washington on Dec. 28 following the holiday break.
PHILADELPHIA (December 20, 2024) – HBCU Original was live on location, capturing the intensity and drama of the 29th annual Hawk Classic as Howard University faced off against St. Joseph’s University at Michael J. Hagan Arena. The matchup highlighted the brilliance of freshman standout Saniyah King, who poured in a career-high 23 points in a valiant effort, and St. Joe’s star Laura Ziegler, who delivered a historic triple-double performance.
The Saint Joseph’s women’s basketball team defeated Howard on Friday afternoon, opening the 29th annual Hawk Classic presented by Jersey Mike’s with a 69-53 victory inside Hagan Arena in front of a crowd of 2,102 for School Day.
A Stage Set for Redemption and Excellence
HBCU Original’s cameras rolled as the Howard Bison sought to bounce back from a tough loss earlier in the week. The spotlight was firmly on freshman guard Saniyah King, and she did not disappoint, proving why she’s a four-time MEAC Rookie of the Week. After a shaky start to the season, King showed her poise and skill, keeping the Bison within striking distance with her stellar shooting and composure at the free-throw line.
The game also marked another chapter in the stellar season of St. Joe’s Laura Ziegler, who achieved her second triple-double in five games. HBCU Original was there to capture the excitement and energy as the Hawks flexed their offensive firepower in front of a packed arena.
Exclusive Coverage: The Voices Behind the Game
HBCU Original’s on-site team provided in-depth commentary, post-game interviews, and highlights from the game. The crew captured reactions from Howard’s players and fans as they reflected on King’s career performance and the challenges faced against a well-balanced St. Joe’s squad.
Coach Grace McCombs of Howard shared her thoughts exclusively with HBCU Original, praising King’s growth and resilience while emphasizing the need for the team to regroup and improve ahead of their next matchup against Northwestern.
Meanwhile, St. Joe’s coach Cindy Griffin spoke about Ziegler’s historic performance and the depth her team brings to the court, a sentiment echoed by fans who packed the arena for the Hawk Classic’s School Day.
What’s Next?
HBCU Original will continue its comprehensive coverage as Howard takes on Northwestern in the consolation game. Stay tuned for exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, player interviews, and expert analysis of Howard’s performance as they look to close out the tournament strong.
Follow HBCU Original for all the latest updates, game highlights, and insights into the journey of HBCU teams nationwide. Visit hbcuoriginal.com or subscribe to our YouTube channel at youtube.com/@THEHBCUORIGINAL.
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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