Pittman’s Pocket: HBCU Coaches need to Play their Freshman Against FBS Teams

HBCU head coaches, I encourage you to continue playing your incoming true freshmen against Division I competitors.

The concept of the Pittman’s Pocket HBCU True Freshman All-American has been instrumental in shaping how HBCU programs recruit and develop future NFL prospects. This weekend alone, we witnessed three HBCU running backs average over 5 yards per carry—players who, as freshmen, competed against top-tier Division I programs within the HBCU football community.

The talent in the NFL is undeniable, and the success of these HBCU players illustrates how seamlessly their skills transition to the professional level. The primary challenge for HBCU programs isn’t coaching; it’s ensuring proper scouting from the NFL. By continuing to schedule and compete against Division I opponents, HBCU programs create substantial opportunities for true freshmen to showcase their talents in front of NFL scouts, facilitating a smoother transition to the league.

I strongly believe that HBCU coaches should increase the number of freshmen playing against Division I talent during the first four games of their college careers. If they don’t perform well, you can redshirt them and give them another opportunity the following year. By focusing on the development of upperclassmen, freshmen will naturally follow suit, creating a strong pipeline of NFL-ready talent.