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.
HBCU ORIGINAL
🦁🐺 HBCU Original — Lincoln & Cheyney Deliver Big Performances at Widener Schuylkill Showdown
Philadelphia, PA — The Widener Schuylkill Showdown (Jan. 31–Feb. 1, 2026) at the Jane & David Ott Center served as a proving ground for regional indoor track & field talent, and HBCU programs Lincoln University (PA) and Cheyney University (PA) rose to the challenge with standout performances across sprints, hurdles, relays, jumps, middle distance, and throws.
🔥 Lincoln University (PA) Puts HBCU Track on Notice
Lincoln University delivered one of the most complete HBCU performances of the meet, highlighted by elite sprinting, record-setting marks, and relay dominance.
🥇 Men’s 4×400 Meter Relay — MEET HIGHLIGHT
Lincoln’s “A” relay squad (Nasir Scott, Devin James, Sahfi Reed, Carlo Johnson) captured 1st place in 3:14.87, earning:
-
Meet win
-
New HBCU #11
-
New NCAA DII #19
The Lions also showed depth with a “B” relay clocking 3:27.23, while a third squad was entered.
⚡ Sprint Power: Men’s 200m
Lincoln sprinters dominated the 200 meters with nationally ranked HBCU marks:
-
Devin James (FR) — 21.78 (New HBCU #52, New DII #75, Season Best)
-
Sahfi Reed (SO) — 21.85 (New HBCU #60, New DII #94)
-
Carlo Johnson (FR) — 21.87 (PR, New HBCU #64, New DII #98)
This trio solidified Lincoln as one of the fastest HBCU sprint groups indoors.
🏃♂️ 400m Strength
-
Nasir Scott (SR) — 50.49 (Season Best)
-
Lamine Kane (SO) — 51.04
-
Malachi Williams (SO) — 52.42
🚧 Hurdles & Jumps
Men’s 60m Hurdles
-
Terry McNeil (SR) — 8.44
-
Adam Green (JR) — 8.67
-
Sayeed Buie (FR) — 8.95
-
Jayden Jones (FR) — 9.81
Men’s High Jump
-
Adam Green (JR) — 1.83m (6-00.00)
Men’s Long Jump
-
Tehuti Cononver (SO) — 6.67m (21-10.75) (New HBCU #69)
-
Adam Green (JR) — 6.50m (21-04.00)
🏃♀️ Women’s Track Highlights
Women’s 60m
-
Darriel Whiting (FR) — 7.90
-
Shanna Todman (SO) — 8.52
Women’s 400m
-
Dayshana Kellogg (FR) — 59.25
-
Kenya Williams (SO) — 1:02.74 (PR)
-
Daleeah Alexander (FR) — 1:03.96
-
Paris Talley (JR) — 1:04.35
Women’s 800m
-
Aniya Whitfield (JR) — 2:31.78
-
Eternity Bellamy (SO) — 2:49.25
🏃♀️ Distance & Triple Jump Excellence
Men’s Mile
-
Thomas Jones (SO) — 4:34.92 (PR, New HBCU #41)
Women’s Mile
-
Madison Morgan (SO) — 6:01.69 (New HBCU #70)
-
Miranda McLean (JR) — 6:11.36 (New HBCU #80)
-
Isabella Wright (SO) — *6:29.02 (PR, New HBCU #88)
Women’s Triple Jump
-
Gabrielle Lanier (SO) — 11.27m (36-11.75)
2nd place | New HBCU #43 | New DII #80 | Season Best
🔁 Women’s 4×400 Relays
-
Lincoln “A” — 4:04.26 (New HBCU #28, New DII #86)
(Whiting, Whitfield, K. Williams, Kellogg) -
Lincoln “B” — 4:13.86
🐺 Cheyney University (PA) Shows Growth & Freshman Impact
Cheyney University competed across sprints, middle distance, jumps, and throws, with freshmen playing key roles.
⭐ Top Highlight
Women’s Long Jump
-
Opeyemi Ojo (FR) — 5th place, 5.10m (16-08.75)
Personal Record
Ojo also doubled on the track:
-
Women’s 60m — 8.57
🏃♂️ Men’s 800m
-
Yasir Logan (FR) — 2:12.16
🏋️ Throws
Men’s Shot Put
-
Benjamin Bell (JR) — 8.50m (27-10.75)
Women’s Shot Put
-
Kimberly Arias (FR) — 9.46m
-
MyAngel Salisbury (FR) — 9.32m
-
Demetria Williams (FR) — 6.24m
Cheyney’s participation across multiple disciplines reflects a program building depth and competitive confidence.

HBCU ORIGINAL
Tuskegee Coach Benjy Taylor Escorted Off Court in Handcuffs After Postgame Incident
Tuskegee Coach Benjy Taylor Escorted Off Court in Handcuffs After Postgame Incident
Credit: HBCU Gameday
Tuskegee University men’s basketball coach Benjy Taylor was escorted off the court in handcuffs following a postgame incident Saturday at Morehouse College’s Forbes Arena.
Video shared by HBCU Gameday shows Taylor speaking with a security officer as Tuskegee and Morehouse players exchanged handshakes after the game. Moments later, the officer placed Taylor in handcuffs and led him off the court and into a nearby hallway.
According to statements from Taylor and Tuskegee athletic director Reginald Ruffin, the incident stemmed from Taylor asking security to remove several Morehouse football players from the handshake line. Taylor said the players were “yelling obscenities,” while Ruffin described the situation as a “security breach.”
“I am at a loss for words, and I am upset about how I was violated and treated today,” Taylor said in a statement released Saturday. “For my players, my family and people of Tuskegee to witness that is heartbreaking for me.
“I was simply trying to get the football team out of the handshake line as they were following right behind me and the team yelling obscenities. It was a very dangerous situation.”
Ruffin told HBCU Gameday that the security officer involved provided a different account, claiming Taylor was “very aggressive.” Ruffin said he disagreed with that assessment, citing conference-mandated security protocols and stating that Taylor’s actions were reasonable.
“He asked the security officer, ‘Can you please remove them from the line?’ That’s what he asked,” Ruffin said.
Civil rights attorney Harry Daniels announced Sunday that Taylor has retained him to explore a potential lawsuit. In a statement, Daniels said the Morehouse football players were “acting aggressively” toward Tuskegee players and their families and that their presence on the court violated conference security policies.
“When Coach Taylor asked officers to enforce those protocols and defuse an increasingly dangerous situation, one of the officers instead chose to place him in handcuffs and escort him from the court,” Daniels said.
As of Monday, it was unclear which law enforcement agency the security officer represents. Taylor has not been charged with a crime, according to Daniels’ office. Tuskegee University confirmed that Taylor traveled back with the team following the game.
Taylor, who is in his sixth season as head coach, declined further comment Sunday, telling USA Today, “I am devastated and will have no more comments at this time.”
Tuskegee fell to 15–5 on the season following its 77–69 loss to Morehouse.
“It would be bad for a police officer to treat anyone this way,” Daniels said. “But to do it to a highly respected coach and role model—handcuffing and humiliating him in front of his players, family and fans—is absolutely unacceptable.”
Sports
Coppin State Hosts No. 2 South Carolina in Baltimore
By HBCU Original Staff | Jan. 18, 2026
BALTIMORE — Coppin State welcomed No. 2 South Carolina on Sunday, giving HBCU fans a rare opportunity to see top-tier college basketball in their own backyard. More than 3,300 fans packed the Physical Education Complex, marking the second-largest home crowd in school history. HBCU Original was on site to capture the energy, excitement, and pride of the HBCU community.
Despite a 90-48 loss, the Eagles showed heart. Senior Khila Morris led the team with 20 points, and senior Paris McBride added 12. Coppin State even held a brief 8-7 lead in the first minutes and outrebounded the taller Gamecocks 38-37, proving that grit and determination were on full display.
The game was more than just basketball. Former Eagles star Denikwa James returned to support her alma mater, while Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott took a courtside seat to celebrate HBCU athletics and community impact. Fans of all ages filled the stands early, some lining up hours before tipoff to make sure they didn’t miss the historic matchup. The atmosphere was electric, with chants, cheers, and proud displays of Coppin State gear throughout the arena.
Dawn Staley and her South Carolina squad brought national attention to Coppin State, but the focus remained on the Eagles’ program and the HBCU community. Staley spent more than 30 minutes signing autographs and taking photos, highlighting the respect and visibility these games bring to HBCUs.
Coppin State coach Darrell Mosley said the experience offered his players valuable lessons. “It’s about exposure, experience, and giving our players a chance to measure themselves against top-level competition,” he said. “Games like this help build our program and show that HBCU athletes belong on the national stage.”
For fans, the event was a celebration of HBCU pride, history, and culture. “This is why we support our programs,” said longtime Coppin fan Shelley Favre. “It’s about showing up, celebrating our teams, and supporting the next generation of HBCU athletes.”
Sunday’s game was a reminder that when HBCUs host marquee events, the impact extends far beyond the scoreboard — inspiring players, energizing communities, and showcasing the talent and resilience that make HBCU sports special.
Full Game Stats
Coppin State Eagles (4-16)
-
Khila Morris: 20 points, 4 rebounds
-
Paris McBride: 12 points, 4 rebounds
-
Shanaii Gamble: 6 points, 3 rebounds
-
Team Shooting: 32.2% FG, 26.7% 3PT, 68.2% FT
-
Rebounds: 38 (15 offensive, 23 defensive)
-
Turnovers: 30
-
Steals: 0
South Carolina Gamecocks (19-1)
-
Joyce Edwards: 26 points, 5 steals, 6 rebounds
-
Tessa Johnson: 17 points, 4 assists, 2 steals (5 3-pointers)
-
Maddy McDaniel: 6 points, 5 assists, 2 rebounds
-
Alicia Tournebize: 8 points, 1 rebound, 1 block, 1 steal
-
Team Shooting: 51.5% FG, 47.4% 3PT, 79.5% FT
-
Rebounds: 37 (10 offensive, 27 defensive)
-
Turnovers Forced: 30
-
Steals: 21

Sunday’s game was a reminder that when HBCUs host marquee events, the impact extends far beyond the scoreboard — inspiring players, energizing communities, and showcasing the talent and resilience that make HBCU sports special.
-
HBCU Original → https://www.hbcuoriginal.com
-
Coppin State → Coppin State Athletics
-
MEAC → MEAC Official Site
-
Dawn Staley → South Carolina Gamecocks WBB
HBCU ORIGINAL
Delaware State Shows Fight in Road Matchup vs Saint Joseph’s
PHILADELPHIA — The Delaware State Hornets continued their non-conference slate Thursday night, facing a determined Saint Joseph’s squad in a 67–51 contest that showcased resilience, youth development, and flashes of defensive intensity from the Hornets.
After a slow shooting start, Delaware State settled in and found its rhythm midway through the first half, cutting the deficit to just three points at 15–12 following a strong response on both ends of the floor. The Hornets battled through early pressure, showing poise and defensive commitment against a hot-shooting Hawks lineup.
Saint Joseph’s took advantage of perimeter shooting early, building momentum heading into halftime, but Delaware State refused to fold. The Hornets continued to compete after the break, answering runs and playing with energy as the game progressed.
Delaware State showed improved ball movement and defensive presence in the second half, working to close the gap after Saint Joseph’s extended its lead. Despite the final margin, the Hornets’ late push reflected their persistence and growth, particularly against a short-handed but aggressive opponent.
As the season continues, Delaware State remains focused on building chemistry, tightening execution, and turning these competitive moments into wins as conference play approaches.
Final Score: Saint Joseph’s 67, Delaware State 51

HBCU ORIGINAL
Okojie’s Double-Double Lifts Howard Past Drexel in Philadelphia
PHILADELPHIA — Ose Okojie delivered a composed, physical performance on both ends, finishing with 17 points and 10 rebounds as Howard held off Drexel, 74-66, on Tuesday night.
The victory marked Howard’s fourth straight win and its first true road victory of the season after three previous attempts. The Bison (8-5) controlled the game early and leaned on efficiency and free-throw shooting down the stretch to seal the win inside Drexel’s home arena.
Howard shot nearly 48 percent from the field and an impressive 92 percent at the free-throw line, knocking down 23 of 25 attempts. Cam Gillus filled the stat sheet with 16 points, nine rebounds, and six assists, while Bryce Harris scored 13 points, including seven free throws. Cedric Taylor III added 12 points, punctuating the Bison’s late-game composure with a key layup in the final two minutes.
The Bison seized control early, building a 36-25 halftime lead behind Okojie’s 11 first-half points and Gillus’ perimeter shooting. A Gillus three midway through the opening half gave Howard a lead it would not relinquish after the first two minutes of play, with the margin ballooning to as many as 16 points.

Drexel (4-7) made multiple pushes in the second half behind a career night from Kevon Vanderhorst. The guard poured in 30 points on 8-of-11 shooting, including four three-pointers, and went 10-for-11 from the free-throw line. Villiam Garcia Adsten chipped in 11 points, six rebounds, and four assists for the Dragons.
Despite Drexel cutting the deficit to single digits late, Howard’s rebounding advantage (36-22) and poise at the line proved decisive. Okojie secured the defensive rebound on Drexel’s final missed free throw with eight seconds remaining, effectively closing the door.
Howard never trailed after taking a 7-5 lead early in the first half, continuing to show growth away from home as it builds momentum heading deeper into the season.
-
HBCU ORIGINAL2 months agoDelaware State Shows Fight in Road Matchup vs Saint Joseph’s
-
HBCU ORIGINAL2 months agoOkojie’s Double-Double Lifts Howard Past Drexel in Philadelphia
-
Sports4 weeks agoCoppin State Hosts No. 2 South Carolina in Baltimore
-
HBCU ORIGINAL2 weeks ago🦁🐺 HBCU Original — Lincoln & Cheyney Deliver Big Performances at Widener Schuylkill Showdown
-
HBCU ORIGINAL2 weeks agoTuskegee Coach Benjy Taylor Escorted Off Court in Handcuffs After Postgame Incident

