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Welcome back to Verified Sources with SJG, live from the campus of North Carolina A&T — the largest HBCU in America. This week’s episode dives deep into a tough stretch for Aggie football, including the fallout from a blowout loss to UCF, a string of quarterback injuries, and how head coach Shawn Gibbs is keeping his team locked in with a “next man up” mentality.

We also highlight the growing rivalry between North Carolina A&T and Hampton University in the CAA, as Gibbs shares his thoughts on what makes this matchup special and why this year’s game means payback for last season’s homecoming defeat
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Beyond A&T, it’s been a busy week across the HBCU landscape:
Bethune-Cookman pulls its Southern matchup back to Daytona after venue concerns.

DeSean Jackson (Delaware State) and Michael Vick (Norfolk State) both earn early wins as first-year MEAC head coaches. Hear directly from them on their progress and challenges.

This episode captures the heart of HBCU football — resilience, rivalries, and rising stars.
📌 Chapters:
0:00 Intro from North Carolina A&T
0:48 Coach Shawn Gibbs on UCF loss & QB injuries
7:15 Building the Hampton rivalry
9:05 Bethune-Cookman vs. Southern game update
10:00 DeSean Jackson reacts to first win
12:42 Michael Vick discusses Norfolk State QB battle
15:49 Closing thoughts from SJG
👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more HBCU football coverage from HBCU Gameday.
#HBCU #VerifiedSources #NCAT #AggiePride #HBCUGameday

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This episode of HBCU Road Warriors takes you inside a wild weekend of HBCU football, from marathon weather delays to rivalry showdowns and quarterback controversies.

• 0:00 – Opening banter: surviving weather delays and long game days
• 2:00 – War stories from past HBCU games (Hurricane Matthew, Celebration Bowl delays)
• 5:20 – Alabama State vs South Carolina State: could this be a Celebration Bowl preview?
• 6:00 – Morgan State’s fight against FBS opponents and staying in every game
• 7:10 – North Carolina A&T debate: “The Dallas Cowboys of HBCUs”?
• 10:30 – How A&T’s rise aligned with the Celebration Bowl era
• 12:30 – Why people care when A&T is down and what it means for the MEAC/CAA
• 14:30 – Coaching talk: alternate universe with Coach Gibbs at FAMU?
• 15:00 – Quinn Gray at FAMU and Brian Jenkins at Bethune-Cookman setting up big weeks ahead
• 16:10 – CIAA & SIAC update: JCSU, Virginia State, Virginia Union, Tuskegee, and more
• 18:15 – Livingstone vs Allen: “The Amazing Classic” and Methodist rivalries
• 20:00 – Jackson State holds its own vs Southern Miss; SC State vs South Carolina
• 22:15 – Norfolk State vs Virginia State: atmosphere, rivalry, and Rashaan Matthews’ breakout
• 24:00 – Michael Vick’s quarterback decision and Otto’s fourth-quarter heroics
• 27:15 – Fan energy, security issues, and the postgame tunnel scene
• 30:00 – Virginia State coach Henry Frazier’s history and almost landing at Norfolk State
• 34:00 – QB battle at Norfolk State: Israel Carter vs Otto
• 38:00 – Michael Vick’s sideline energy and leadership evolution
• 40:00 – Attendance numbers at Norfolk State and what it means for the program
• 43:00 – Around the horn: where the crew is heading next week (FAMU, VUU, Livingstone, WSSU, JCSU, etc.)
• 47:00 – Travis Hunter talk, FAMU spotlight, and HBCU culture moments
• 53:00 – Elizabeth City nearly upsets Hampton, Johnson C. Smith adjustments, and more CIAA talk
• 59:00 – Wrapping up: WSSU home opener, new light show at Bowman Gray, and closing shoutouts

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SJG and K-Ferg break down the Week Zero action and get ready for an exciting week of D2 HBCU Football.

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The second week of HBCU football approaches with several compelling storylines emerging from an action-packed opening weekend. Alabama State quarterback Andrew Body delivered a performance for the ages against UAB, throwing for 312 yards and rushing for 119 more while accounting for five touchdowns. His stellar showing sparked heated debate when he was named co-offensive player of the week alongside Jackson State's Ahmad Miller, who rushed for 172 yards on just 10 carries.

Michael Vick's highly anticipated coaching debut at Norfolk State attracted national attention with ESPN cameras and celebrity appearances, but resulted in a 27-7 loss to Towson. The Spartans struggled to establish offensive rhythm while rotating quarterbacks, highlighting the challenges ahead for the program under new leadership. Meanwhile, Delaware State showed surprising tenacity against Delaware despite being picked to finish last in the MEAC. Their aggressive defensive play and strong running game from Marquise Gillis (123 yards) suggested they might significantly outperform preseason expectations.

Week 2 brings "payout weekend" for many HBCU programs facing FBS opponents, with Grambling State headlining by collecting $1 million to face Ohio State. Other notable games include UAPB at Texas Tech ($575,000) and Jackson State at Southern Miss ($375,000). These matchups provide crucial financial support for athletic departments while offering players valuable experience against top-tier competition. In Division II, Benedict made a statement with a shutout victory over Fayetteville State, while Clark Atlanta impressed in a narrow loss to powerhouse Valdosta State.

The passion surrounding HBCU football continues to grow, with programs like North Carolina A&T introducing special helmet decals honoring the Greensboro Four civil rights icons. Whether you're following Division I or Division II action, the competition promises excitement across all conferences. Subscribe to our channel for comprehensive HBCU football coverage throughout the season, and join the conversation about which teams will rise to championship contention.

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Tuskegee University AD Reginald Ruffin has set the HBCU world on fire with his latest Facebook statement — and the reactions have been just as strong. In this episode of Verified Sources with SJG, we break down Ruffin’s bold message to former players and alumni about sideline access, free tickets, and the importance of supporting your alma mater financially.
From his no-nonsense “buy your damn ticket” stance to his call for sustained alumni giving, Ruffin’s words sparked nearly 200,000 views and a storm of debate across social media. We dive into what he said, why it matters, and how HBCU communities should think about balancing tradition, access, and accountability.
You’ll hear perspectives from Tuskegee supporters, former student-athletes, and HBCU alumni nationwide — some applauding Ruffin’s tough love, others questioning the delivery. We also put his comments in the larger context of HBCU athletics, alumni engagement, and the financial realities our institutions face.
This is a conversation every HBCU supporter needs to hear. Tap in, share your thoughts, and don’t forget to subscribe to the HBCU Gameday podcast for more authentic coverage and commentary.

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The Teddy Keaton Show returns on HBCU Gameday for Season Two, Episode Two. After a tough season-opening loss to defending national runner-up Valdosta State, Coach Teddy Keaton sits down with Sylvester Williams to break down every angle of the Week Zero matchup. From deferring the coin toss to key plays in the second half, Coach Keaton gives insight into his team’s performance, including Zach McDonald’s debut at quarterback, Allen Riggins’ ground game, and a resilient defensive effort led by Eric Searcy, Carter Mason, and Curtis Way.

The episode also covers the highs and lows of special teams play, how the Panthers matched up physically with a Gulf South Conference powerhouse, and what lessons will carry into the next matchup against Florida Memorial.

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The road warriors of HBCU Game Day hit multiple states to bring you comprehensive coverage of college football's opening weekend, witnessing everything from NFL legend Michael Vick's coaching debut to nail-biting classics that set the tone for the 2023 season.

The most anticipated storyline belonged to Vick at Norfolk State, where approximately 19,000 fans—the largest non-homecoming crowd in years—packed the stadium donning every jersey from his illustrious playing career. The electric atmosphere couldn't translate to on-field success as the Spartans fell 27-7 to Towson. Observers noted Vick seemed to blend into the sideline rather than commanding it, perhaps showing the learning curve from player to head coach. Despite the loss, Norfolk State fans remained optimistic: "It's just the first game, y'all. We're going to be back."

Meanwhile, the John Merritt Classic delivered heart-stopping drama as Tennessee State survived North Carolina A&T's late comeback attempt when they blocked a potential game-tying field goal to secure a 24-21 victory. A&T's quarterback change to a redshirt freshman sparked their offense, leading many to believe they'll secure their first Division I win since September 2023 in the coming weeks—perhaps even at homecoming.

The Red Tails Classic in Montgomery featured Winston-Salem State and Tuskegee battling before 15,000 fans on ESPNU. Beyond the on-field action, both schools participated in a giving challenge that raised substantial scholarship funds, including one remarkable $100,000 donation to Tuskegee. The SIAC conference claimed a 3-2 advantage over the CIAA in their cross-conference matchups.

Looking ahead to Week Two, Virginia State enters as a surprising 3.5-point favorite over Division I Norfolk State in what could be a telling matchup. As one host boldly stated, "If they let little state go on and take over big state...I'll know everything I need to know" about Norfolk State's potential under Vick's leadership.

Whether you're planning to attend games or watching from home, download our app for exclusive content, breaking news, and in-depth analysis from the people who are actually in the stands witnessing HBCU football history as it unfolds.

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The 2025 SIAC Football Season is upon us.

Please visit our website to get more information: https://hbcugameday.com/ 

🔔Get front-row seats to HBCU athletics—Subscribe for thrilling highlights, deep dives, and the stories that define the culture of historically black colleges and universities.

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College football's transfer portal era has fundamentally transformed Division II HBCU programs, shifting from player development over years to a season-by-season scramble for talent. On this season premiere, we explore how this new reality affects championship contenders in both the CIAA and SIAC conferences.

Virginia Union, the defending CIAA champions, navigated this landscape successfully last season but now must replace star running back Jada Byers. Meanwhile, Miles College faces complete reconstruction after winning the SIAC championship, losing head coach Shadrick Shade to Alabama A&M along with several key players. These situations highlight the constant tension between success and stability at the D2 level.

The coaching carousel spun wildly this offseason, with multiple programs experiencing significant changes. Shaw's Adrian Jones landed at Elizabeth City State after being dismissed despite a winning record. Edward Waters brought in former Bethune-Cookman coach Brian Jenkins following Toriano Morgan's departure to Tennessee State. Fort Valley State begins a new era without Sean Gibbs, who left for North Carolina A&T. These transitions create both challenges and opportunities across the D2 HBCU landscape.

We also break down the exciting Week Zero matchups between CIAA and SIAC programs, including Virginia Union vs. Miles, Fayetteville State vs. Benedict, and Winston-Salem State vs. Tuskegee in the Red Tails Classic. These early cross-conference battles provide immediate tests for championship contenders while offering national exposure on ESPN platforms.

NCAA changes bring fresh opportunities this season, with expanded playoffs (32 teams), automatic bids, and Super Region realignment potentially creating more postseason paths for HBCU programs. For traditional powers like Winston-Salem State and Tuskegee seeking to reclaim past glory, the stakes have never been higher.

Subscribe to the D2HBCU Show for weekly insights, analysis, and exclusive interviews throughout the Division II HBCU football season. Download the HBCU Game Day app for complete coverage across all platforms.

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The 2025 football season is finally here, and Winston-Salem State University is ready to make a statement. In this episode of WSSU Ram Nation, SJG breaks down the Week Zero matchup against Tuskegee in the Red Tails Classic on ESPN U, talks about Head Coach Robert Massey’s bold “championship or bust” declaration, and what it means for the Rams in his contract year.
We also dive into the expectations for the team after last season’s breakthrough, the impact of alumni and fan support, and how WSSU stacks up against CIAA rivals. Plus, the Red Sea of Sound is back in the mix for the Red Lobster Band of the Year, with hopes of finally breaking into the top two and heading to Atlanta.
This is more than football—it’s about pride, history, and proving that WSSU is still one of the most dominant names in HBCU athletics.
Game Info
WSSU vs. Tuskegee | Red Tails Classic
Montgomery, Alabama
7 PM EST | ESPN U
Join the conversation: Do you agree with Coach Massey that it’s “championship or bust” for WSSU this year?
#WSSU #HBCU #RedTailsClassic #CIAA #Tuskegee #WSSURamNation (edited) 

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