Pittman’s Pocket: HBCU Top performers week 10

Week 10 of HBCU football featured explosive performances on both sides of the ball, highlighting the talent across multiple conferences.

MEAC Highlights:
North Carolina A&T’s defense was anchored by Joshua Iseah, who led the Aggies with 8 tackles. For Norfolk State, the passing attack shined as J.J. Evans hauled in 5 receptions for 124 yards and 2 touchdowns, while DeSean Kendrickadded 9 catches for 112 yards and a score. On defense, Kyree Mayston impressed with 4 tackles, 1 sack, and 2.5 tackles for loss.

Delaware State quarterback Kaiden Bennett turned in an efficient performance, completing 16-of-18 passes for 158 yards and a touchdown. Defensively, Samuel Korpoi (6 solo tackles, 1 sack, 2 TFL) and Quincy Robinson (3 solo tackles, 1 sack, 1 TFL, 1 forced fumble) led the way for the Hornets.

SIAC & CIAA Standouts:
Savannah State’s defense totaled 4 solo tackles, 2.5 sacks, and 2.5 TFL, while receiver Cinsere Clark led the offense with 9 catches for 111 yards. Albany State’s defensive duo of Zelly Aldridge (5 solo tackles, 1 sack, 3 TFL) and Tyrell Gainey (2 solo tackles, 2 TFL, 1 interception) also stood out.

In the CIAA, Kelvin Durham led Johnson C. Smith with a 20-for-27, 182-yard passing day. On the defensive side, Fayetteville State’s Jatavien Taylor (8 solo tackles, 1 TFL) and Shawn Robinson (2 solo tackles, 2 sacks, 2 TFL) were dominant.

Defensive Dominance:
Benedict’s pass rush was relentless, with Ty’Metrius Patterson (5 solo tackles, 3 sacks, 5 TFL) and Israel Nwokocha (3 solo tackles, 2 sacks, 3 TFL) wreaking havoc up front. Central State’s Dominique Davis (13 tackles, 11 solo, 3 TFL) and Mathias Davis (4 solo tackles, 2 sacks, 2 TFL) delivered strong performances, as did Morgan State’s Jianni Woodson-Brooks (8 solo tackles, 2 sacks, 2 TFL).

Offensive Leaders:
On the ground, Tyler Smith (S.C. State) rushed 18 times for 110 yards and 2 touchdowns, while Javen Parker(Livingstone) carried 21 times for 125 yards, and Jamarie Hostclaw (Alabama State) added 127 yards on 21 attempts. In the air, Jaylon Tolbert (Alcorn State) threw for 220 yards and a touchdown, and Jackson State’s ground game flourished behind Ahmad Miller (165 yards, 1 TD) and Donerio Davenport (110 yards, 1 TD).

Historic Performance:
Virginia Union’s Curtis Allen delivered one for the record books — rushing 26 times for 369 yards and 5 touchdowns. On defense, Tuskegee’s Timarcus Grayson was unstoppable, totaling 5 solo tackles, 2 sacks, 2.5 TFL, and a forced fumble.

Summary:
Week 10 once again showcased the elite talent and competitive spirit of HBCU football — from record-breaking rushing performances to defensive dominance — proving why these programs continue to thrive on the national stage.