Thursday, August 28, 2025
Alcorn State Braves at Northwestern State Demon(7:00 PM CT, ESPN+)
The Braves, perennial contenders in the West Division, head to Louisiana for a clash with the Southland Conference Demons. Alcorn's defense, ranked among the SWAC’s best in tackles for loss last season, will be key against the Northwestern State team rebuilding after a 0-11 season(0-6 in conference) in 2024. Expect Alcorn to lean on their rushing attack to control the clock and grind out a win in this tune-up before diving into conference play.
Alcorn State Hornets at UAPB Blazers(7:30 PM CT, ESPN+)
These in-state battles see the Hornets facing an FBS opponent in UAB of the American Athletic Conference. Alabama State, predicted to finish third in the East, boasts a potent offense- led by quarterback Andrew Body, who is expected to elevate the unit into the SWAC Top three in scoring. However, they’ll need to show up against UAB. A competitive showing here could boost confidence for Eddie Robinson Jr.’s squad, especially with a healthy roster entering week one.
Friday, August 29, 2025
Bethune Cookman Wildcats at FIU(7:00 PM, ESPN+)
The Wildcats travel to Miami to take on FIU from Conference USA. Bethune Cook-Man, projected near the bottom of the East, faces an uphill battle that could surprise with improved speed on the edges.FIU’s up-tempo offense will test the Wildcats' secondary, making this a potential shootout. A strong defensive effort could provide momentum for a program aiming to climb in standing.
Saturday, August 30, 2025
Hampton Pirates at Jackson State Tigers(2:00 PM CT, HBCUGO)
Under head coach T.C Taylor, Jackson State is forecasted to host Hampton from the Coastal Athletic Association in what could be a statement game. The Tigers’ balanced attack and elite defense make them heavy favorites, but Hampton’s veteran line could keep it close early. Look for Jackson State to showcase why they’re viewed as a powerhouse of the conference, potentially overwhelming the Pirates
Florida A&M Rattlers vs Howard Bison(3:00 PM CT, ESPNU)
In a Rematch loaded with history, the Rattlers meet the Bison in the 2025 Orange Blossom Classic at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, a Labor Day Weekend tradition built on HBCU Pride and legacy. FAMU, coached by James Colzie III in his second year, enters after a 7-5 record in 2024. Howard is seeking revenge for their 30- 26 loss in the Celebration Bowl in 2023, bringing a dynamic offense that exploded on big plays in key wins last season. This thriller, pitting SWAC vs MEAC, could hinge on FAMU's "Dark Cloud” defense containing Howard's explosive ground game. Don’t miss the bands, the atmosphere, and the stakes this one has for bridging rights.
Alabama A&M Bulldogs at Arkansas(3:15 PM CT)
The Bulldogs entered SEC territory for a payday game against Arkansas. Alabama A&M is fourth in the EAST preseason poll and will rely on its defense to force turnovers, but containing the Razorbacks' high offense will be a tall order. A respectable performance could build resilience for the Bulldogs this season.
Southern Jaguars at Mississippi Valley State Devils(4:00 PM)
Fresh off their week 0 defeat in the MEAC/SWAC Challenge, where North Carolina Central racked up over 200 rushing yards in a 31-14 win. Southern is looking for redemption in this early West vs East matchup. Head coach Terrance Graves will lean on his rushing back, Trey Holly, to spark the offense after their horrible passing game against NCCU. MVS are the underdogs that could capitalize if Southern makes mistakes. This game offers the Jaguars a chance to regroup before other opponents.
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Golden Lions at Texas Tech Red Raiders(6:30 PM CT, ESPN+)
UAPB faces a Big 12 powerhouses in Lubbock, where Texas Tech's explosive air raid could overwhelm the Golden Lions' secondary. Pine Bluff, rebuilding in the West, will aim to establish the run and avoid a blowout, using this as a learning experience in divisional play.
Prairie View A&M Pathers at Texas Southern Tigers(7:00 PM CT)
The Labor Day Classic renewed this heated West Division Rivalry, with both teams hungry for an early conference win. Prairie View is the favorite with a solid returning core, but Texas Southern's home-field energy and improved defense could make it a dogfight. Expect trash talk, big hits, and a close finish in this Texas Showdown.
Langston Lions vs Grambling State Tigers(7:00 PM CT)
Grambling hosts NAIA’s Langston in a non-conference tilt that should favor the Tigers. Grambling aims to build confidence against a lower-division opponent with a revamped offense under new coordinators. The Lion’s speed might create highlights, but Grambling's SWAC pedigree should prevail.
As SWAC teams navigate these openers, the focus remains on building toward the December 6 SWAC Championship game. Powerhouses like Jackson and FAMU are eyeing deep runs, and underdogs like the Hornets are poised for a surprise. Week one is more than games; it is the cultural season of HBCUs.