Pittmans Pocket: HBCU Week One Football Matchups

Thursday, August 28 – Saturday, August 30, 2025

The 2025 HBCU football season is here, and Week One is packed with rivalries, classics, and high-profile matchups that set the tone for the fall. From Michael Vick’s head coaching debut at Norfolk State to the historic Orange Blossom Classic in Miami, fans will see storylines unfold across the MEAC, SWAC, and beyond. Here’s a breakdown of the opening week slate.

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Thursday, August 28, 2025

Norfolk State vs. Towson
The spotlight shines bright on Norfolk State as NFL legend Michael Vick makes his head coaching debut. Adding to the excitement, the game is featured during ESPN’s First Take Tour, bringing national attention to the Spartans. Towson comes in as a tough CAA opponent, but all eyes will be on how Vick energizes the program in his first game on the sidelines.

Delaware State vs. Delaware
One of the most anticipated MEAC-level rivalries takes center stage as Delaware State looks to prove itself against its in-state FCS foe. The Hornets always play with extra fire in this matchup, and the Blue Hens will need to match the intensity to avoid an upset.

Alcorn State vs. Northwestern State
A classic SWAC vs. Southland Conference showdown kicks off the Braves’ season. Alcorn will look to assert its physical style against a Northwestern State team eager to start strong in nonconference play.

Alabama State vs. UAB
The Hornets face an in-state challenge against the Blazers. While UAB enters as the FBS favorite, Alabama State has upset potential if their defense can create turnovers early.

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Friday, August 29, 2025

Bethune–Cookman vs. FIU
Bethune–Cookman heads to Miami for a nonconference test against FIU. The Wildcats have shown they can compete against FBS opponents, and this matchup gives them another shot to measure progress heading into SWAC play.

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Saturday, August 30, 2025

Hampton vs. Jackson State
The Hampton Pirates meet the Jackson State Tigers in a marquee HBCU clash. With Hampton continuing to solidify its CAA identity and Jackson State reloading after high-profile departures in recent years, this matchup is a measuring stick for both programs.

Howard vs. Florida A&M – Orange Blossom Classic (Miami Gardens, FL)
The Orange Blossom Classic is always one of the highlights of the HBCU football calendar. Howard comes in hungry to start the season strong, but they’ll face a juggernaut in Florida A&M, the defending SWAC powerhouse. Expect a big crowd and electric atmosphere at Hard Rock Stadium.

Southern University vs. Mississippi Valley State
Southern looks to start its SWAC campaign on the right foot against a scrappy Mississippi Valley team. The Jaguars’ high-powered offense will be tested by Valley’s physical front.

Langston vs. Grambling State – Shreveport Classic (Independence Stadium, LA)
The Shreveport Classic brings NAIA powerhouse Langston to take on historic Grambling State. Beyond the game itself, the matchup represents a celebration of Louisiana football and HBCU tradition.

Prairie View A&M vs. Texas Southern – 40th Labor Day Classic (Houston, TX)
The 40th edition of the Labor Day Classic is here, and few rivalries bring the intensity like Prairie View A&M vs. Texas Southern. Expect a packed crowd, halftime fireworks, and plenty of bragging rights at stake in Houston.

North Carolina Central vs. University of New Hampshire
The defending MEAC champions face a tough road test against a CAA opponent. North Carolina Central has its eyes on another Celebration Bowl run, and a win here would boost their national FCS standing.

Wofford vs. South Carolina State
South Carolina State travels to face SoCon opponent Wofford. Buddy Pough’s squad will need to rely on discipline and physical play to start the season with momentum.

Morgan State vs. South Alabama
Morgan State opens its season with an FBS test against South Alabama. The Bears are on the rise under coach Damon Wilson and will use this matchup as both a challenge and a chance to sharpen for MEAC play.

North Carolina A&T vs. Tennessee State – John Merritt Classic (Nashville, TN)
The John Merritt Classic closes out the weekend slate with a heavyweight battle. North Carolina A&T and Tennessee State, though no longer in the same conference, always draw a big crowd in Nashville. The Aggies are looking to re-establish themselves on the national stage, while Eddie George’s Tigers aim to make a statement at home.

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Final Word

Week One is more than just the start of the season—it’s a showcase of HBCU pride, tradition, and rivalries. From classics in Miami and Houston to Michael Vick’s much-anticipated debut in Norfolk, the opening weekend promises excitement and storylines that will carry deep into the season.