Pittman’s Pocket: HBCU Rivalry week Games | A Tradition like no other

A Tradition of Excellence: Iconic HBCU Football Classics

HBCU football is built on pageantry, tradition, and community—and no events encapsulate that spirit more than the nation’s celebrated HBCU Classics. Each matchup carries decades of history, cultural pride, and some of the fiercest rivalries in Black college football.

Florida Classic: Bethune-Cookman vs. Florida A&M

One of the premier HBCU showdowns, the Florida Classic features Bethune-Cookman and Florida A&M battling annually in a high-energy contest. With massive crowds and a festival-like atmosphere, it remains a staple of Florida sports culture and HBCU tradition.

Bayou Classic: Grambling State vs. Southern

Held in New Orleans, the Bayou Classic stands among the most recognized HBCU events in the country. Grambling State and Southern University bring intense competition on the field, while the iconic “Battle of the Bands” electrifies the Superdome every year. Its cultural and economic impact on the city is unmatched.

Magic City Classic: Alabama State vs. Alabama A&M

Played in Birmingham, the Magic City Classic is one of the oldest—and financially most successful—HBCU classics. Alabama State and Alabama A&M draw enormous crowds, with a week filled with parades, concerts, tailgates, and a rivalry that goes back generations.

Morehouse–Tuskegee Classic

Rich with heritage, the Morehouse–Tuskegee Classic spans more than 80 years, making it one of Black college football’s longest-running rivalries. Its blend of history, pride, and alumni engagement makes it a cornerstone in Division II HBCU football.

Fountain City Classic: Fort Valley State vs. Albany State

A flagship rivalry in Georgia, the Fountain City Classic showcases SIAC powerhouses Fort Valley State and Albany State. The annual meeting consistently shapes conference standings and fuels passion among both fanbases.

Commemorative Classic: Johnson C. Smith vs. Livingstone

Dating back to 1892, the Commemorative Classic honors the first recorded Black college football game. Johnson C. Smith and Livingstone renew this historic matchup to celebrate the origins and legacy of HBCU football.