This week, Homecoming Season continues for Alabama A&M and Tennessee State. The SWAC’s elite rushing (Alcorn State, 209 yards per game) and passing (Southern, 252.4 yards per game) offenses look to stay atop the West Division. Florida A&M, Hampton, Jackson State, North Carolina A&T, and South Carolina State will have the week off.

Here are my top five matchups and predictions for this week.

Predictions Record:
2024 record: 80-14
Week 6: 13-1

Week 7 FCS HBCU Top 5 Games

All times are Eastern Standard

5. Sacred Heart (3-3) at Howard (2-3), Saturday, 1:00 PM (ESPN+)

Fresh off a bye, the Bison are looking to start the season .500 after their first six games for the first time since 2017. Head coach Larry Scott’s first victory at Howard came from a win over Sacred Heart in 2021. However, the program is 3-12 vs FCS opponents in the Scott Era. I expect that win total to change this weekend. Even with Sacred Heart having a Top 20 defense, look for running backs Jarett Hunter (378 rushing yards, three touchdowns) and Eden James (230 rushing yards, two touchdowns) to exploit a rush defense that allows 186 yards per game on the ground.

Bison 24, Pioneers 14

4. Mississippi Valley State at (0-5, 0-1) at Alabama State (2-3, 1-1), Saturday, 3:00 PM

Both teams suffered tough conference losses this past weekend. Nonetheless, they are only one game back in the loss column within the SWAC’s East Division standings. The Delta Devils enter Saturday’s matchup as the nation’s worst team in turnovers lost facing a Bama State defense that is ninth in the nation in turnovers gained. Unfortunately, the Hornets are having issues with their pass offensively. Playing their fifth quarterback of the season last week, ASU totaled four completions for 68 yards in their loss to FAMU. But somebody has to win this week, right?

Hornets 17, Delta Devils 10

3. Eastern Illinois (1-5, 0-2) at Tennessee State (4-2, 2-1), Saturday, 6:00 PM (ESPN+)

A half-game behind three teams in the Big South-OVC standings, the Tigers head into homecoming with an opportunity to extend their current win streak to three. A feat head coach Eddie George has accomplished every year during his tenure in Nashville since 2021. If TSU wants to redeem themselves after last season’s 30-17 loss to EIU, they’ll have to slow down signal-caller Pierce Holley. The Panther QB passed for 300-plus yards in his last two outings.

Tigers 28 Panthers 24

2. Southern (2-3, 1-0) at Texas Southern (2-3, 1-1), Saturday, 7:00 PM (SWAC Digital Network)

When the season started, expectations were low for the Jags and Tigers. Nevertheless, both teams are a victory away from having two conference wins and staying close to the top of the West Division … for now. Southern is looking to bounce back after a 51-7 defeat by Nicholls. Even though Texas Southern stopped a three-game skid after defeating Virginia-Lynchburg 28-10 last week, they failed to pile up points against a Dragons defense that’s given up 51 points per contest over their first five games.

Jaguars 20, Tigers 17

1. Alcorn State (3-3, 2-0) at Grambling State (3-2, 0-1), Saturday, 3:00 PM (ESPN+)

The Braves sit atop the SWAC’s West Division, thanks in part to the strong play of quarterback Xzavier Vaughn (536 total yards, five touchdowns, interception) and running back Jacorian Sewell (275 rushing yards, two touchdowns) during their current two-game win streak. The Tigers are currently averaging 31.4 points per contest. However, they would come up short vs. Prairie View A&M at the end of five overtimes two weeks ago. These teams have split their last six matchups, but Alcorn hasn’t won in Grambling since 2017.

Braves 31, Tigers 28

MEAC

Towson (2-3) at Norfolk State (2-5), Saturday, 2:00 PM (ESPN+)

Tigers 27, Spartans 14

Virginia Lynchburg (0-6) at #24 North Carolina Central (4-2), Saturday, 2:00 PM (ESPN+)

Eagles 49, Dragons 12

Delaware State (1-5) at Robert Morris (2-3), Saturday, 3:00 PM

Colonials 28, Hornets 20

Merrimack (1-4) at Morgan State (3-3), Saturday, 3:00 PM (ESPN+)

Bears 17, Warriors 14

SWAC

Prairie View A&M at (2-4, 1-2) at Arkansas-Pine Bluff (1-4, 0-1), Friday, 9:15 PM (ESPN2)

Panthers 28, Golden Lions 20

Bethune-Cookman at (0-5, 0-1) at Alabama A&M (2-3, 0-1), Saturday, 3:00 PM ()

Bulldogs 27, Wildcats 24

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Alcorn State, Alabama State, Jackson State, North Carolina Central, and Southern are all out to early conference leads. To the converse, Bethune-Cookman and Mississippi Valley State are still winless while North Carolina A&T hasn’t defeated an FCS program since September 2023.

The Wildcats (40.4), Aggies (43.6), and Delta Devils (47.2) have three of the worst-scoring defenses in the nation. Both A&T and MVSU have allowed 42 or more points over the past three games. A feat neither team has achieved since 2006 and 2016, respectively.  

As we turn the page to October, we realize that Homecoming season is upon us.

Alabama State, Alcorn State, Delaware State, Morgan State, and Texas Southern will celebrate this weekend, while Bethune-Cookman, Grambling State, Howard, and Mississippi Valley State are on byes.

Here are my top five matchups and predictions for this week.

Predictions Record:
2024 record: 67-13
Week 5: 9-2

Week 6 FCS HBCU Top 5 Games

All times are Eastern Standard

5. Arkansas-Pine Bluff (1-3, 0-0) at Alcorn State (2-3, 1-0), Saturday, 3:00 PM (HBCU GO)

Even after Alcorn’s rough 1-3 start, their 42-21 victory over Mississippi Valley State has them 1-0 in league play. This week, the Braves look to improve to .500 as they welcome UAPB to Lorman for Homecoming. Winners of three straight over the Golden Lions and six of their last seven meetings, Alcorn will look to take advantage of the nation’s eighth-worst scoring defense.

Braves 35, Golden Lions 17

4. North Carolina Central (3-2) at Campbell (2-3), Saturday, 4:00 PM (FloSports)

Last season, NCCU defeated Campbell in OT, 49-48. This Saturday, both teams will look different at the skilled positions. However, this game still has the potential of being another shootout. The Eagles will look to slow down the nation’s ninth-best passer in Chad Mascoe (1,124 passing yards, 7 touchdowns, 2 interceptions), and second-best receiver Sincere Brown (491 receiving yards, 5 touchdowns). The Camel defense, however, will face signal-caller Walker Harris (245 passing yards, 4 touchdowns) fresh off Central’s Circle City Classic victory over Norfolk State.

Eagles 31, Camels 27

3. Tennessee State (3-2, 1-1) at Lindenwood (2-3, 1-0), Saturday, 2:00 PM (ESPN+)

TSU stole one away from Charleston Southern last week to earn their first conference victory of the season. A win here and the Tigers will start the season 4-2 in consecutive seasons for the first time since 2016 & 2017. Last season, TSU defeated Lindenwood 43-20 in their ever first meeting. This week, the Big South-OVC’s third-best pass defense will have to deal with quarterback Nate Glantz and wide receiver Jeff Caldwell who connected on four unanswered touchdown passes in their 28-25 come-from-behind win over Eastern Illinois a week ago.

Tigers 27, Lions 21

2. Alabama A&M (2-2, 0-0) vs Jackson State (3-2, 1-0), Saturday, 5:00 PM (ESPN+)

You’ll have to go back to Spring 2021 for the last time Alabama A&M defeated Jackson State. And, if dual-threat quarterback Jacobian Morgan can come close to replicating his four-touchdown outing against Texas Southern, the SWAC’s highest-scoring offense will extend their win streak to four over AAMU at this year’s Gulf Coast Challenge.

Tigers 30, Bulldogs 21

1. Florida A&M (2-2. 0-0) at Alabama State (2-2, 1-0), Saturday, 3:00 PM (ESPN+)

According to preseason predictions, Alabama State’s Homecoming was supposed to be the matchup determining the SWAC East Division Champion. The loss of quarterback Andrew Body has led to the Hornets producing the worst pass offense in the nation. However, a 308-yard performance on the ground last week led by running back Jamarie Hostzclaw (15 carries, 120 rushing yards) would give ASU a much-needed conference win over Bethune-Cookman. ASU will look to exploit the SWAC’s third-worst rush defense in their attempt to defeat the Rattlers for the first time since FAMU joined the SWAC.

Rattlers 17, Hornets 14

CAA

Rhode Island (3-1, 1-0) at Hampton (3-2, 0-1), Saturday, 2:00 PM (FloSports)

Rams 24, Pirates 20

North Carolina A&T (1-4. 0-1) at Richmond (3-2, 1-0), Saturday, 2:00 PM (FloSports)

Spiders 42, Aggies 24

MEAC

St. Francis (PA) (1-3) at Delaware State (1-3), Saturday, 1:00 PM (ESPN+)

Red Flash 27, Hornets 20

Lincoln (PA) (0-4) at Morgan State (2-3), Saturday, 1:00 PM (ESPN+)

Bears 35, Lions 12

Norfolk State (2-4) at Sacred Heart (2-3), Saturday, 1:00 PM (ESPN+)

Spartans 31, Pioneers 14

South Carolina State (2-2) at Tennessee Tech (2-2), Saturday, 2:30 PM (ESPN+)

Bulldogs 24, Golden Eagles 21

SWAC

Virginia Lynchburg (0-5) at Texas Southern (1-3), Saturday, 3:00 PM (SWAC Digital Network)

Tigers 49, Dragons 7

Prairie View A&M (2-3) at Incarnate Word (2-2), Saturday, 7:00 PM (ESPN+)

Cardinals 28, Panthers 17

Nicholls (1-3) at Southern (2-2), Saturday, 7:00 PM (Jaguar Sports Network)

Colonels 31, Jaguars 27

The post Week 6 HBCU FCS Predictions appeared first on HERO Sports.

Quarterback Jalen Daniels (20/29, 277 yards, 3 touchdowns) shined in Norfolk State’s win over VMI. Morgan State used a familiar formula of running the ball for almost 300 yards to defeat Virginia-Lynchburg. Strong defensive performances were key for Grambling State and Southern as they remained undefeated in conference play. Hampton continues to prove that they are the “Real HU” on the gridiron as they extend their win streak to eight over Howard, while North Carolina Central easily disposed of longtime North Carolina A&T.

The Eagles would score in almost every way possible in their 66-24 triumph over the Aggies. The 66 points is the largest point total allowed by an A&T defense since their 70-7 loss to Bethune-Cookman in 2006.

In Week 5, the slate is comprised of league play for Hampton, Tennessee State, and the SWAC, Howard will face their third different Ivy League opponent in as many years when they travel to New Jersey, and three teams from the MEAC will compete against CAA adversaries including a rivalry renewed by North Carolina A&T and South Carolina State.

Arkansas-Pine Bluff and Southern are off this week while Saturday’s game between Alabama A&M and Florida A&M has been postponed because of Tropical Storm Helene.

Here are my top five matchups and predictions for this week.

Predictions Record:
2024 record: 58-11
Week 3: 12-3

Week 5 FCS HBCU Top 5 Games

All times are Eastern Standard

5. North Carolina A&T (1-3) at South Carolina State (1-2), Saturday, 6:00 PM (ESPN+)

This once-heated MEAC rivalry has been lopsided over their last matchups, with A&T winning eight of those including the past seven straight. Unfortunately for the Greensboro Faithful, the Aggies are a combined 2-13 since joining the CAA. That once daunted Blue Death Defense is now the 11th-worst unit in the nation in yards allowed and 7th-worst in points allowed. Look for SCSU quarterback Eric Phoenix (532 passing yards, 2 touchdowns, interception) to have a field day with A&T’s porous pass defense.

Bulldogs 31, Aggies 21

4. Jackson State (2-2, 0-0) at Texas Southern (1-2, 1-0) Saturday, 7:00 PM (ESPN+)

Both teams are looking to rebound from tough losses last week. This week likely won’t be any easier for Texas Southern. TSU running back Quintell Quinn (23 carries, 149 rushing yards vs. Lamar) will have his hands full with the SWAC’s best-rushing defense. Not to mention, JSU hasn’t dropped a game to TSU since 2010, including last year’s two-point loss in Mississippi.

Jackson State 31, Texas Southern 20

3. Prairie View A&M (1-3, 0-2) vs. Grambling State (3-1, 0-0), Saturday, 7:00 PM (ESPN+)

Five forced turnovers led to 24 points in Grambling’s 21-point victory over Jackson State last week. The win gives the Tigers the best overall record in the SWAC and their first 3-1 start in seven seasons. Success this Saturday at the State Fair Classic for GSU will put them in first place in the conference’s Wild Wild West Division. If linebacker Andrew Jones (38 total tackles, 6.5 TFLs) and the rest of the Grambling defense can continue to force turnovers and pressure PVAMU’s quarterback – who has been sacked third-most in the nation – Mickey Joseph will become the first GSU head coach to start his first season 4-1.

Tigers 28, Panthers 17

2. North Carolina Central (2-2, 0-0) vs. Norfolk State (2-3, 0-0), Saturday, 3:00 PM (ESPN+)

Trei Oliver’s Eagles have won three straight against his former teammate Dawson Odums, outscoring the Spartans 124-74 over the past three games. Nonetheless, both teams are fresh off impressive outings as they head to Indianapolis for the 40th Annual Circle City Classic. Norfolk State compiled 393 yards of total offense while forcing three turnovers in their 32-10 win over VMI. However, NC Central racked up 530 yards and pressured NC A&T into four turnovers in their 66-24 shellacking of the Aggies. The Spartans must keep pace with the MEAC’s best-scoring offense (31.5 points per game) if they want to go 1-0 in league play and earn Odums his sixth conference victory in four seasons.

Eagles 31, Spartans 17

1. Hampton (3-1, 0-0) at #12 William & Mary (3-1, 0-0), Saturday, 6:00 PM (FloSports)

The Pirates are riding a three-game win streak, their third stretch since leaving the MEAC in 2018. Record-wise, this is the best matchup in the CAA as the two best-rushing offenses in the conference face off in the first league game of the season for both teams. All eyes will be on running backs Bronson Yoder (117 yards, 2 touchdowns) of the Tribe and Hampton’s Elijah Burris (343 yards, 3 touchdowns). However, it was Ja’Quan Snipes (10 carries, 117 yards, 2 touchdowns) who shined in the Pirates’ win over Howard.

Tribe 34, Pirates 24

Big South-OVC

Charleston Southern (1-2, 0-0) at Tennessee State (2-2, 0-1), Saturday, 6:00 PM (ESPN+)

Tigers 24, Buccaneers 20

MEAC

Delaware State (1-3) at Campbell (1-3), Saturday, 2:00 PM (FloSports)

Camels 21, Hornets 14

Howard (2-2) at Princeton (0-1), Saturday, 3:00 PM (ESPN+)

Tigers 30, Bison 21

Morgan State (2-2) at Stony Brook (3-1), Saturday, 3:30 PM (FloSports)

Bears 24, Seawolves 21

SWAC

Alabama State (1-2, 0-0) at Bethune-Cookman (0-4, 0-0), Saturday, 3:00 PM (HBCU GO)

Hornets 17, Wildcats 10

Alcorn State (1-3, 0-0) at Mississippi Valley State (0-4, 0-0), Saturday, 7:00 PM (Valley Sports Network)

Braves 20, Delta Devils 12

The post Week 5 HBCU FCS Predictions appeared first on HERO Sports.

The 21 combined HBCU FCS programs have 26 wins with only a third having won two of their three games. Fifteen of those wins were over Division II & NAIA programs while the non-HBCU victories were over The Citadel, Mercyhurst, Sacred Heart, and Texas A&M-Commerce, who have five wins between them.

In Week 4, there are 12 out-of-conference games, which include two heated rivalries, and three league contests. Alabama State and South Carolina State are off this week.

Here are my top five matchups and predictions for this week.

Predictions Record:
2024 record: 46-8
Week 3: 14-2

Week 4 FCS HBCU Top 5 Games

All times are Eastern Standard

5. Clark Atlanta (2-0-1) at Bethune-Cookman (0-3), Saturday, 3:00 PM (ESPN+)

Bethune-Cookman wants to steer clear of a 0-4 record for the second time in four seasons while avoiding a loss to a DII program since 2009. The Wildcats have been inconsistent on both sides of the ball. Look for Clark-Atlanta quarterback David Wright III (937 passing yards, 10 touchdowns) to capitalize on the fifth-worst defense in the nation.

Panthers 27, Wildcats 20

4. North Carolina A&T (1-2) at North Carolina Central (1-2), Saturday, 7:00 PM (ESPN+)

Both teams look to rebound after tough road losses as A&T travels to Durham for the first Aggie-Eagle Classic in O’Kelley-Riddick since 2018. NCCU head coach Trei Oliver is searching for his third straight win over the Aggies. However, starting quarterback Walker Harris is questionable for Saturday due to concussion protocol. If the Aggies can stymie running back J’Mari Taylor (228 rushing yards, 4 touchdowns) and confuse freshman quarterback Javion Martin, A&T could head back to Greensboro with a win.

Eagles 20, Aggies 17

3. Howard (2-1) at Hampton (2-1), Saturday, 4:00 PM (Monumental Sports Network)

The Rivalry that is the Battle of the Real HU will get all the storylines leading up to this year’s Truth & Service Classic. However, Howard head coach Larry Scott has never defeated Hampton during his tenure, with the Pirates taking seven straight from the Bison dating back to 2015. If Howard wants to snap that streak and win a third straight game for the first time since 2014, the MEAC’s best offense must find ways to exploit a Pirate defense that limited Norfolk State to just 104 total yards, 9 first downs, and seven points.

Pirates 24, Bison 21

2. Southern (1-2, 0-0) at Prairie View A&M (1-2, 0-1), Saturday, 7:00 PM (ESPN+)

Prairie View and Southern are in search of their first conference victory while trying to avoid going 1-3 for the first time since 2016. Both teams have split their last four matchups. If the Panthers want to win back-to-back games against the Jags, Prairie View’s defense will have to slow down the nation’s seventh-best pass offense. Southern comes into this game with five wideouts that have compiled at least 110 yards receiving.

Jaguars 21, Panthers 14

1. Jackson State (2-1, 1-0) at Grambling State (2-1, 0-0), Saturday, 7:00 PM (ESPN+)

Grambling won their 27th SWAC Championship the last time they started a season 2-1. If GSU wants to be on the road to their 28th while avoiding a third straight loss to JSU, the Myles Crawley-led offense must find ways to score against the nation’s 15th-ranked defense while improving their rush defense. After allowing 267 yards on the ground to Texas A&M-Commerce, GSU will welcome a Jackson State offense to Robinson Memorial that ran the ball 42 times, gaining 201 yards and scoring 3 touchdowns in their win over Southern last week.

Jackson State 31, Grambling State 24

Big South-OVC

Tennessee State (2-1, 0-0) at Tennessee Tech (0-2, 0-0), Saturday, 2:30 PM (ESPN+)

Eagles 28, Tigers 17

MEAC

Norfolk State (1-3) at VMI (0-3), Saturday, 1:30 PM (ESPN+)

Cadets 31, Spartans 10

Richmond (1-2) at Delaware State (1-2), Saturday, 6:00 PM (ESPN+)

Spiders 38, Hornets 6

Virginia Lynchburg (0-3) at Morgan State (1-2), Saturday, 7:00 PM (ESPN+)

Bears 41, Dragons 10

SWAC

Mississippi Valley State (0-3) at Nicholls (0-3), Saturday, 4:00 PM (ESPN+)

Colonels 27, Delta Devils 7

Florida A&M (2-1) at Troy (0-3), Saturday, 7:00 PM (ESPN+)

Trojans 24, Rattlers 14

Central Arkansas (2-1) at Arkansas-Pine Bluff (1-2), Saturday, 7:00 PM (SWAC Digital Network)

Bears 31, Golden Lions 14

Alabama A&M (2-1) at Austin Peay (0-3), Saturday, 7:00 PM (ESPN+)

Governors 35, Bulldogs 20

Texas Southern (1-1) at Lamar (2-1), Saturday, 7:00 PM (ESPN+)

Cardinals 30, Tigers 21

Alcorn State (1-2) at McNeese (2-2), Saturday, 8:00 PM (ESPN+)

Braves 17, Cowboys 14

The post Week 4 HBCU FCS Predictions appeared first on HERO Sports.

Florida A&M had their 13-game win streak snapped by Miami, a couple of MEAC teams struggled against CAA opponents, and it was announced last week that Alabama State quarterback Andrew Body will miss the remainder of the season due to a shoulder injury. 

The good — Alabama State, Arkansas-Pine Bluff, Howard, Jackson State, Norfolk State, North Carolina A&T, Prairie View A&M, and Southern won their first game of the year, Chennis Berry, Mickey Joseph, and Trenton Boykin earned their first victories at their new programs, and Connell Maynor earned his 100th career victory as a head coach.

This week, we have a bevy of out-of-conference contests, four HBCU Classics, and two interleague games in the CAA and SWAC, while Florida A&M and Texas Southern are off this week.

Here are my top five matchups and predictions for this week.

Predictions Record:
2024 record: 32-6
Week 1: 18-2

Week 3 FCS HBCU Top 5 Games

All times are Eastern Standard

5. Morehouse (0-2) vs. Howard (1-1), Saturday, 3:00 PM (CNBC)

On paper, the HBCU NYC Football Classic should be a cakewalk for Howard. Morehouse hasn’t beaten anyone not named Clark-Atlanta since October 2021 while the Bison have won four straight against the Maroon Tiger, outscoring them 161-65. Take your pick on which side of the ball will dominate more for Howard.

Bison 49, Maroon Tigers 10

4. Edward Waters (1-1) at Alcorn State (0-2), Saturday, 7:00 PM (ESPN+)

Alcorn’s start to 2024 has been a rough one, losing big to FBS opponents UAB and Vanderbilt. The Braves haven’t started a season 0-3 since 2009, and I don’t anticipate it happening this year. DII Edward Waters is coming to Lorman for Alcorn’s first home game of the season, bringing a run defense that allowed 310 yards and four touchdowns last week.

Braves 42, Tigers 7

3. Arkansas-Pine Bluff (1-1) vs. Tennessee State (1-1), Saturday, 7:00 PM (HBCU Go Sports)

These two teams are entering the 35th Annual Southern Heritage Classic coming off polarized matchups. UAPB easily defeated Arkansas Baptist College 73-0 while Tennessee State struggled against #2 North Dakota State 52-3. Quarterbacks Mekhi Hagens (473 passing yards, 2 touchdowns) and Draylen Ellis (484 passing yards, 3 touchdowns, interception) had 300-plus passing yard games this season. This has the potential to be a quarterback duel.

Tigers 35, Golden Lions 20

2. Hampton (1-1) at Norfolk State (1-2), Saturday, 4:00 PM (ESPN+)

Both teams are coming off wins over DII in-state rivals. Norfolk head coach Dawson Odums expects this edition of the Battle of the Bay to be ‘trench warfare.’ Running backs Elijah Burris (94.0) and Kevon King (103.0) are averaging over 90 rushing yards per contest. However, last week’s MEAC Co-Offensive Player of the Week quarterback Jalen Daniels (231 total yards, 3 total touchdowns) will have to find some success against the nation’s seventh-best pass defense if the Spartans want to extend their home win streak over Hampton to three.

Spartans 20, Pirates 17

1. Southern (1-1, 0-0) at Jackson State (1-1, 0-0), Saturday, 7:00 PM (ESPN+)

Both pass defenses are ranked in the top three nationally in yards allowed, but that stat is somewhat deceiving. Last week, Jackson State and Southern held their DII opponents to 46 yards in the air. There’s a chance that these units could be tested at the Boom Box Classic, with quarterbacks from both programs having highly productive outings in Week 2. JSU’s Jacobian Morgan completed 9 passes in 11 attempts for 150 yards and 2 touchdowns in a limited role. However, SU’s Czavian Teasett (316 passing yards, 3 touchdowns) had to replace starter Noah Bodden after his slow start. Will quarterback play be key for the Jags as they look to stop their four-game losing streak against JSU?

Tigers 27, Jaguars 17

CAA

Delaware (1-0, 0-0) at North Carolina A&T (1-1, 0-0), Saturday, 1:00 PM (FloSports)

Blue Hens 38, Aggies 10 

MEAC

Wagner (1-1) at Delaware State (1-1), Saturday, 3:00 PM (ESPN+)

Seahawks 24, Hornets 21

Morgan State (1-1) at Ohio (1-1), Saturday, 3:30 PM (FloFootball)

Bobcats 21, Bears 17 

North Carolina Central (1-1) at North Carolina (2-0), Saturday, 6:00 PM (ESPN+/ACC Extra)

Tarheels 49, Eagles 7

South Carolina State (1-1) at Georgia Southern (1-1), Saturday, 6:00 PM (ESPN+)

Eagles 31, Bulldogs 17

SWAC

Prairie View A&M (1-1) at Michigan State (2-0), Saturday, 3:30 PM (Big Ten Network)

Spartans 56, Panthers 7

Bethune-Cookman (0-2) at Western Michigan (0-2), Saturday, 6:30 PM (ESPN+)

Broncos 35, Wildcats 3

Georgetown (KY) (1-1) at Alabama A&M (1-1), Saturday, 7:00 PM (SWAC Digital Network)

Bulldogs 42, Tigers 10

Alabama State (1-1) at Samford (0-2), Saturday, 7:00 PM (ESPN+)

Bulldogs 24, Hornets 17

Grambling State (1-1) at Texas A&M-Commerce (0-2), Saturday, 7:00 PM (ESPN+)

Lions 27, Tigers 17

Mississippi Valley State (0-2) at Murray State (0-2), Saturday, 7:00 PM (ESPN+)

Racers 38, Delta Devils 7

The post Week 3 HBCU FCS Predictions appeared first on HERO Sports.

Let’s predict some scores.

Predictions Record:
2024 Record: 7-1
2023 Record: 96-42

Week 2

Week 2 Viewing Guide

UT Martin at SEMO

The Big South-OVC should be an interesting race. Eastern Illinois returns most of its starting lineup after a breakout season. SEMO has veteran leaders like QB Paxton DeLaurent, OL Zack Gieg, and LB Bryce Norman. Tennessee State is on the rise. And Gardner-Webb looks to stay atop the standings. But it was UT Martin who got the No. 1 slot in the preseason poll.

It’ll be a fun QB battle on Saturday between UT Martin’s Kinkead Dent and SEMO’s DeLaurent. Dent threw for 2,295 yards, 25 TDs, and eight interceptions last fall after he transferred in from Ole Miss. He’s a big reason why the Skyhawks are preseason No. 1. In the season-opener last week, Dent went 7/14 for 87 yards in a 41-6 loss at Kansas State.

DeLaurent, meanwhile, looks to replicate his 2022 season when he threw for 2,684 yards, 19 touchdowns, and six interceptions. He missed half of last season with a shoulder injury.

SEMO is 1-1 but should be 2-0 with an FBS win. The Redhawks led 16-10 in the fourth quarter before New Mexico State came back to win 23-16. DeLaurent went 27/45 for 295 yards, a touchdown, and an interception in the loss. A positive was he returned after leaving the Week 0 game (a win over North Alabama) with a shoulder injury. He was 14/17 passing for 96 yards and a touchdown in that matchup.

SEMO had a tough time closing out close games last year. It happened again last week. Fortune flips this week at home and the Redhawks pull out a nail-biting win.

Prediction: SEMO 34-31

Campbell at No. 17 Western Carolina

Two teams that battled FBS opponents tough last week. Campbell lost to Liberty 41-24, while WCU lost 38-21 at FBS No. 24 NC State in a game it led 21-17 entering the fourth quarter.

WCU’s Cole Gonzales looked the part of a top quarterback in the FCS. He went 22/35 passing for 211 yards and two touchdowns and had 75 rushing yards on six carries.

Campbell has a talented roster, but its defense will have a hard time slowing down the Catamounts at home.

Prediction: Western Carolina 34-21

Elon at NC Central

I have Elon ranked No. 16 while NC Central is just outside of my Top 25. Last year, NC Central beat Elon 34-23.

Elon has a good nucleus back from its 6-5 squad. Its safety tandem is elite with Caleb Curtain and Khalil Baker, who is a transfer from NC Central.

NC Central lost its standout quarterback Davius Richard as he pursued the NFL. But the Eagles like who they have behind center in Walker Harris. He’ll have to be more efficient than 9/18 for 119 yards and a touchdown in a 31-24 win over Alabama State to find success against a good Elon defense.

Prediction: Elon 28-24

No. 10 Southern Illinois at Austin Peay

Austin Peay has consistently been in the playoff picture in recent years. But there are some unknowns about its 2024 roster. The Govs lost a lot of players to graduation or the transfer portal. Nearly 30 D1 transfers were brought in to replenish the roster. Their 62-0 season-opening loss at Louisville doesn’t give us many answers.

SIU is also coming off of an FBS loss, 41-13 at BYU. The Salukis have some rebuilding to do as well with a new starting QB and production to replace on defense. DJ Williams, a transfer from Murray State, finished 10/20 passing for 98 yards and an interception while rushing for 121 yards and two touchdowns. Its rush defense held up well, led by LB Colin Bohanek (12 tackles), limiting BYU to 3.8 yards per carry (47 attempts for 149 yards).

Expect Austin Peay to try and attack SIU through the air. But the Salukis should be able to control the trenches to earn a road win.

Prediction: SIU 31-21

No. 12 UIW at No. 1 South Dakota State

SDSU didn’t compete as well as some expected last week in its 44-20 loss at FBS No. 17 Oklahoma State. UIW looked OK in a 28-7 home win over a struggling Northern Colorado program.

Week 2 will tell us a lot more about both teams.

Is SDSU still the juggernaut that overmatches 95% of the FCS?

Is the No. 12 ranking for UIW deserved after it didn’t impress well enough to get into the 2023 playoff bracket with an 8-2 record (seven D1 wins)?

UIW won’t be able to beat SDSU at its own game. The Cardinals will have to try and go around the Jackrabbits and not through them, spreading them out and letting the talented arm of Zach Calzada do some damage. SDSU did allow 245 passing yards last week. But that was a Big 12 offense. Keep in mind that the Jackrabbits return a mostly same-look secondary as last year’s team that ranked No. 8 in FCS passing defense (167.6 YPG).

UIW also played solid defense last year relative to its strength of schedule that ranked in the 80s.

I expect UIW to hit on some big plays offensively while its defense gives SDSU’s offense a stiff test. At least in the first half. Eventually, in the final two quarters, SDSU’s physicality will wear on UIW and the Jacks will pull away for a win.

Prediction: SDSU 38-21

No. 4 Montana at No. 23 North Dakota

UND has won 25 of its last 28 games inside the Alerus Center. The Fighting Hawks are 10-3 at home against ranked opponents since 2019. Montana hasn’t lost an FCS non-conference game since 2018.

It’s a great early test for a Montana squad eyeing a return to the national championship game. The Grizzlies were slow out of the gate in 2023 before peaking at the right time. Montana beat Missouri State 29-24 last week, a closer game than some expected and perhaps a sign that a slow start could occur again. Notably, the Grizzlies were without three All-American-level players: wide receiver/returner Junior Bergen, linebacker Riley Wilson, and tight end Cole Grossman. Their statuses for Saturday are unknown.

Similar to 2023, the Griz have a two-QB system to begin the year. Redshirt freshman Keali’i Ah Yat got the start last week before Fresno State transfer Logan Fife came in during the second half.

Montana can’t afford a choppy non-conference like last fall. UND, despite losing 21-3 at Iowa State, showed plenty of positives. The Hawks will be in the playoff hunt again, and they are a very tough team to beat at home. Montana also hosts ranked WCU in a couple of weeks. Dropping a non-conference game puts the pressure on the Griz to go 8-0 in Big Sky play to earn a Top 2 playoff seed and coveted home-field advantage.

Last week, Missouri State’s run-pass balance found success on Montana’s defense. I’m not sure if UND has that offensive balance yet. Its running game looked solid at Iowa State. The o-line, with four new starters, got a decent push. Gaven Ziebarth and Isaiah Smith are two great backs. But Montana’s rush defense should force enough third downs to give the Griz a chance to get off the field.

UND QB Simon Romfo will be in his second career start, and he’ll need to show some progression in the throwing game. An inexperienced QB and an o-line still gelling in pass protection going up against a pressure-heavy Montana defense results in the Grizzlies getting off the field on third downs while their offense hits on enough explosive plays for a hard-fought win.

Prediction: Montana 28-24

Tennessee State at No. 2 North Dakota State

The Bison should win this game. How they win will be most intriguing.

NDSU’s secondary got picked apart last week at Colorado, allowing nearly 450 passing yards. A part of that was Colorado just being that good. But there were also some holes, defensive breakdowns, bad tackling, bad angles, and missed assignments.

Tennessee State looks to contend for a playoff spot out of the Big South-OVC. The Tigers will test that NDSU secondary after veteran QB Draylen Ellis threw for 350+ yards in a 41-21 Week 1 win over Mississippi Valley State. Holding up in the trenches will be the challenge, though. NDSU’s d-line should be among the best in the FCS. And expect the Bison rushing attack to get rolling after an up-and-down game at Colorado.

Prediction: NDSU 41-21

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The last two HBCU national champions appear to be in championship form. The two teams predicted to win their respective divisions in the Southwestern Athletic Conference are already behind the eight ball. Morgan State is still the East Baltimore Bullies that we saw last season, and Arkansas and Auburn are way too proud of what they did to Arkansas-Pine Bluff and Alabama A&M respectively.

This week, the FCS HBCU football slate is filled with in-state rivalries, SWAC vs. SIAC matchups, a few “Money Games,” and Tennessee State heads to the Fargodome for the first time.

Here are my top five matchups and predictions for this week.

Predictions Record:
2024 record: 14-4
Week 1: 14-4

Week 2 FCS HBCU Top 5 Games

All times are Eastern Standard

5. Tuskegee (0-1) at Grambling State (0-1), Saturday, 7:00 PM (HBCU Go Sports)

These two iconic programs haven’t played each other since 1949. Both teams are looking for their first win of the season. Grambling running back Ke’travion Hargrove (12 carries, 61 yards, touchdown) could have a big day against a Golden Tiger defense that allowed 229 yards on the ground last week.

Tigers 27, Golden Tigers 17

4. Virginia Union (1-0) at Hampton (0-1), Saturday, 6:00 PM (FloSports)

A rivalry is renewed as these former interconference in-state foes face off for only the third time since the turn of the century. If Hampton wants to avoid starting the season 0-2 for the first time since 2016, they’ll have to slow down a Panther offense that racked up a school-record 674 yards, led by running back Jada Byers (14 carries, 211 yards, three touchdowns).

Panthers 28, Pirates 27 

3. South Carolina State (0-1) at Citadel (1-0), Saturday, 12:00 PM (ESPN+)

Former head coach Buddy Pough led the Bulldogs to their first-ever win over The Citadel last year, 31-10. If current head coach Chennis Berry wants to duplicate that outcome and earn his first victory on the FCS level, the Bulldog defense can’t allow 15 points in the fourth quarter in consecutive weeks.

South Carolina State 17, Citadel 14 

2. Virginia State (1-0) at Norfolk State (0-2), Saturday, 4:00 PM (ESPN+)

Still in search of their first win of 2024, the Spartans are looking to redeem themselves for last year’s season-opening loss to the Trojans. Saturday’s “Battle of the States” has all the hallmarks of a great ground & pound contest as NSU will look to stop Virginia State running back Jimmyll Williams (150 rushing yards, 2 touchdowns) while re-establishing Kevon King (172 rushing yards, 2 touchdowns) as the focus of their offense.

Spartans 28, Trojans 20

1. Elon (0-1) at North Carolina Central (1-0), Saturday, 6:00 PM (ESPN+)

The Eagles are 4-2 vs. CAA teams under head coach Trei Oliver, including their 34-23 victory over Elon last September. 2022 First Team All-MEAC defensive back Khalil Baker returns to O’Kelly-Riddick for the opposition as the Phoenix will attempt to slow down HBCU National Player of the Week J’Mari Taylor, who amassed 146 total yards and scored three touchdowns last week.

Eagles 31, Phoenix 27

Big South-OVC

Tennessee State (1-0) at #2 North Dakota State (0-1), Saturday, 3:30 PM (ESPN+)

Bison 42, Tigers 7 

CAA

Winston Salem State (1-0) at North Carolina A&T (0-1), Saturday, 7:00 PM (FloSports)

Aggies 21, Rams 17

MEAC

Morgan State (1-0) at Towson (0-1), Saturday, 6:00 PM (FloFootball)

Tigers 27, Bears 20

Mercyhurst (1-0) at Howard (0-1), Saturday, 7:00 PM (ESPN+)

Bison 28, Lakers 14

SWAC

Mercer (1-0) at Bethune-Cookman (0-1), Saturday, 3:00 PM (SWAC Digital Network)

Bears 30, Wildcats 14

Miles (0-1) at Alabama State (0-1), Saturday, 6:00 PM (ESPN+)

Hornets 24, Golden Bears 21

#24 Florida A&M (2-0) at #12 Miami (1-0), Saturday, 6:00 PM (ESPN+/ACC Network)

Hurricanes 49, Rattlers 17

Kentucky State (0-1) at Alabama A&M (0-1), Saturday, 7:00 PM (SWAC Digital Network)

Bulldogs 35, Thorobreds 10

Lane (0-0) at Jackson State (0-1), Saturday, 7:00 PM (SWAC Digital Network)

Tigers 41, Dragons 13

Mississippi Valley State (0-1) at Lamar (0-1), Saturday, 7:00 PM (Valley Sports Network)

Cardinals 28, Delta Devils 17

Prairie View A&M (0-1) at Northwestern State (0-1), Saturday, 7:00 PM (ESPN+)

Panthers 17, Demons 14

Savannah State (0-0) at Southern (0-1), Saturday, 7:00 PM (HBCU Go Sports)

Jaguars 20, Tigers 17

Texas Southern (1-0) at Rice (0-1), Saturday, 7:00 PM (ESPN+)

Owls 49, Tigers 10

Alcorn State (0-1) at Vanderbilt (1-0), Saturday, 7:30 PM (ESPNU)

Commodores 42, Braves 10

Arkansas Baptist (1-0) at Arkansas-Pine Bluff (0-1), Saturday, 8:00 PM (UAPB Sports Network)

Golden Lions 21, Buffaloes 14

The post Week 2 HBCU FCS Predictions appeared first on HERO Sports.

Who will win their respective divisions in the Southwestern Athletic Conference? How tightly contested will the six-team Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference be this season? How many teams will participate in postseason play? After their big win this past weekend, will Florida A&M become the first team to start and finish their season in Atlanta during the Celebration Bowl era?

But before answering those questions, we must play these 16 season-openers.

Here are my top five matchups and predictions for this week.

Week 1 FCS HBCU Top 5 Games

All times are Eastern Standard

5. Mississippi Valley State at Tennessee State, Saturday, 6:00 PM (ESPN+)

The 2024 John Merrit Classic will pit two teams who haven’t faced each other since 2019. Both teams saw their fair share of struggles in 2023, totaling 552 yards per game between the two programs. Quarterback Ty’Jarian Williams (1,197 passing yards, 8 total touchdowns, 6 interceptions), tight end Jaxson Davis (406 receiving yards, 3 touchdowns), and wide receiver Kerrick Ross (335 receiving yards, 3 touchdowns) will look to improve for MVSU. The Delta Devil defense will have their hands full attempting to contain dual-threat quarterback Draylen Ellis (1,075 passing yards, 11 total touchdowns, 5 interceptions) and running back Jordan Gant (553 rushing yards, 10 touchdowns).

Tigers 24, Golden Lions 14

4. Morgan State at Hampton, Saturday, 6:00 PM (FloSports)

This will be the first time these former MEAC foes will meet since 2016. Offensively, Hampton will lean on quarterback Christopher Zellous (2,056 total yards, 22 total touchdowns, 14 interceptions) and All-CAA Preseason First Team selection Elijah Burris (803 rushing yards, 6 touchdowns). However, if the Pirates want to win their sixth season opener, their entirely new offensive line will have to slow down All-MEAC selections linebacker Erick Hunter and defensive lineman Elijah Williams.

Bears 21, Pirates 17

3. Texas Southern at Prairie View A&M, Saturday, 7:00 PM (ESPN+)

Good friends and former NFL teammates Cris Dishman and Bubba McDowell will face off as head coaches at this year’s Labor Day Classic. It’s tough enough starting the season with a conference game. Even tougher for Texas Southern, who is currently riding a nine-game losing streak to the Panthers. Gone are Andrew Body, Quaydari Davis, and LaDarius Owens, who led the Tigers in their season-opening loss last year. Returning quarterback Jace Wilson (1,630 passing yards, 12 total touchdowns, 5 interceptions) will look to establish himself against a Panther pass defense that allowed 255 yards per contest.

Panthers 28, Tigers 24

2. South Carolina State at Florida A&M, Saturday, 6:00 PM (ESPN+)

Welcome back to FCS Football, Chennis Berry. Your first opponent: The 2023 Black College Football Champions Florida A&M. As the new head coach in Orangeburg transitions from the Division II ranks, his team will be tested early facing the Rattlers coming off a tough win. Quarterback Daniel Richardson (22/30, 286 passing yards, 3 touchdowns) was impressive in his first start with FAMU. As they prepare to face another experienced offensive line, the Rattlers will have to tighten up on their rushing defense if they want to extend their home win streak to 21.

Rattlers 27, Bulldogs 24 

1. North Carolina Central vs. Alabama State, Sunday, 3:00 PM (ESPN)

For the past three seasons, the Orange Blossom Classic winner has gone on to play in the Cricket Celebration Bowl. Could that be the case this year in what many believe to be the preview to the Black College Football Championship game this December? Both teams will have new starting signal-callers. Quarterback Walker Harris will take over the helm for the Eagles, while transfers Andrew Body and Jonah O’Brien are still fighting for that spot in Montgomery.

Eagles 20, Hornets 17

CAA

North Carolina A&T at Wake Forest, Thursday, 7:00 PM (ESPN+/ACC Network)

Demon Deacons 38, Aggies 17

MEAC

Howard at Rutgers, Thursday, 6:00 PM (BigTen Network)

Scarlet Knights 24, Bison 14

Delaware State at Sacred Heart, Saturday, 6:00 PM

Pioneers 21, Hornets 17

Norfolk State at East Carolina, Saturday, 6:00 PM (ESPN+)

Pirates 28, Spartans 14

SWAC

Jackson State at UL-Monroe, Thursday, 7:00 PM (ESPN+)

Tigers 20, Warhawks 14

Arkansas-Pine Bluff vs. Arkansas, Thursday, 7:30 PM (ESPNU)

Razorbacks 56, Delta Devils 7

Alcorn State at UA-Birmingham, Thursday, 8:00 PM (ESPN+)

Blazers 30, Braves 17

Bethune-Cookman at South Florida, Saturday, 7:00 PM (ESPN+)

Bulls 38, Wildcats 12

Alabama A&M at Auburn, Saturday, 7:30 PM (ESPN+/SEC Network)

Tigers 51, Bulldogs 14

Grambling State at Louisiana, Saturday, 8:00 PM (ESPN+)

Ragin’ Cajuns 34, Tigers 13

Southern at McNeese State, Saturday, 8:00 PM (ESPN+)

Jaguars 17, Cowboys 14

The post 2024 Week 1 HBCU FCS Predictions appeared first on HERO Sports.

Florida A&M and Norfolk State face off in Atlanta for the first time since both teams were members of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference. At the same time, Delaware State will play outside the continental United States for the first time in program history. 

Of the three programs, the Spartans are the most experienced with 16 starters returning from last season. However, the Hornets will have the only returning signal-caller from the previous campaign.

Here are my previews for the upcoming contests on Saturday night.

Florida A&M vs. Norfolk State

How to Watch
Date: Saturday, August 24
Game Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Venue: Center Parc Stadium, Atlanta, GA
TV: ABC

Fun Facts: Since 2015, none of the Challenge participants have ended that season playing in the Celebration Bowl, both are played in Atlanta. The MEAC is currently 11-6 all-time in the MEAC/SWAC Challenge, but the SWAC has won four of the last six contests. 

Here are a few things to look for in Saturday night’s contest:

When Florida A&M Has the Ball

Players to watch:
Rattlers: QB Daniel Richardson, RB Kelvin Dean, WR Jamari Gassett
Spartans: DL Keshawn Lynch, DB Terron Mallory, LB AJ Richardson

All of FAMU’s offensive leaders from a year ago are now gone. In their places, the 2023 Celebration Bowl Offensive Player of the Game (Dean), his fellow All-SWAC second-team selection (Gassett), and new starting quarterback Daniel Richardson will take over for a unit that averaged just under 31 points per game last season.

A transfer from FAU, Richardson passed for 2,001 yards and 13 touchdowns while throwing for 10 interceptions in 2023.

The Jimmys & Joes may be different for FAMU’s starting offense, eight to be exact, but the play-caller will remain the same. Joseph Henry returns for his third season as offensive coordinator at the Highest of Seven Hills.

For the Spartans, Lynch, Mallory, and Richardson will join a defense that returns eight starters from last season. Hopefully, the experience of playing alongside one another will help a unit that gave up close to 28 points per game against FCS opponents in 2023. If not, Dean and the Rattlers’ ground attack will have a field day against the 112th-ranked rushing defense from a season ago.

When Norfolk State Has the Ball

Players to watch:
Spartans: QB Jalen Daniels, RB Kevon King, WR Tavian Morris
Rattlers: DB Kendall Bohler, DL Allen Smith, DB Deco Wilson

Unlike FAMU, Norfolk State will enter this weekend’s matchup with seven returning offensive players, including running back Kevon King (429 running yards, 7 total touchdowns). However, head coach Dawson Odums will start his fourth season at NSU with his fourth offensive coordinator and a new starting quarterback.

Last season, the Spartans finished the year 19th in average time of possession (31:46), but new offensive coordinator Jason Phillips is focused on calling more explosive plays. While Phillips was a member of the offensive staff at Alcorn State between 2018-2022, the Braves averaged 28 points per contest. However, Alcorn would have its worst offensive output while Phillips was the OC, scoring 20.7 per contest albeit with diminished talent at quarterback.

This past Sunday, we learned that senior quarterback Otto Kuhns has been suspended for the first four games of the year due to an NCAA ruling. Enter sophomore Jalen Daniels. The one-time South Carolina recruit transferred from Garden City CC, where he passed for 1,282 yards and nine touchdowns in eight contests.

The Rattlers’ Dark Cloud Defense, led by All-SWAC selections Bohler, Smith, and Wilson, will look to slow down the Spartans.

Prediction
How quickly can this new Florida A&M roster come together under Colzie? Have the more experienced Spartans improved since winning 11 games over three seasons under Odums? Which new signal-caller will gain a better understanding of their respective system quicker? I’m not sure, but Odums is winless in season openers at Norfolk. Look for the SWAC to win their fifth game over the last seven contests in this series.

My Pick: Rattlers 28, Spartans 24

Delaware State at Hawaii

Saturday, Midnight (Spectrum Sports PPV)

Lee Hull’s club will become the first HBCU to travel to Honolulu since Grambling State did it three times between 1972 and 1976. The Hornets, winners of three of their last four season openers, will face two daunting tasks when they take that 10-hour flight to the Aloha State — playing an FBS opponent on the road with a kickoff time set for Midnight EST.

Returning defensive linemen Darren Cook and Eric Montes will look to slow down Hawaii’s Run & Shoot offense, led by QB Brayden Schager and WR Steven McBride. Offensively, Delaware State will need improved play from RB Marquis Gillis and TE EJ Core if they aspire to score more than their 2023 average of 18 points per contest.

Rainbow Warriors 31, Hornets 14

The post Week 0 HBCU Preview And Predictions appeared first on HERO Sports.

Two ranked teams are in action along with the defending HBCU national champions. Let’s predict some scores.

Predictions Record:
2023 Record: 96-42
2019-2022 Record: 337-158

Week 0

McNeese at No. 21 Tarleton State

I like Tarleton as a playoff team this fall in its first year eligible for the postseason.

The Texans finished 8-3 last year, owning a Top 10 FCS scoring offense (33.3 points per game). They return their starting QB Victor Gabalis, two running backs (Kayvon Britten and Derrel Kelley III) that have rushed for over 1,000 yards in a season, top three wide receivers (led by two-time All-UAC selection Darius Cooper), and five starting offensive linemen.

The defense will need to improve to make serious noise nationally after allowing 24.5 points per game, ranking 43rd in the FCS. Five of the top eight tacklers are back.

McNeese is an interesting test to start the year, though.

The Cowboys have a solid tradition, but they have endured some down years lately. They didn’t win a game last year unless you count the forfeit win over Northwestern State. Despite having Micah Davey, who returns as one of the best FCS linebackers, McNeese was awful defensively, allowing 38.1 points per game to rank No. 118 in the FCS.

McNeese brought in about 16 FBS transfers this offseason and five FCS transfers. This includes QB Clifton McDowell, who helped lead Montana to last season’s national championship game.

In front of a strong Tarleton home crowd, the Texans pull away offensively.

Prediction: Tarleton 41-28

North Alabama vs. SEMO

A peek inside my predictions strategy here — I typically just go with my gut feeling and then provide reasoning/analysis/stats to back up my prediction.

On the surface, it seems SEMO is the safe pick here. The Redhawks are a known FCS commodity, reaching the playoffs in 2018, 2019, and 2022. Last year’s team finished 4-7 after being preseason ranked, losing four games by one possession. Well-known standouts like QB Paxton DeLaurent, OL Zack Gieg, CB Joedrick Lewis, and LB Bryce Norman are back.

But something tells me North Alabama is going to get this one. The Lions went 3-8 last year. They beat ranked Chattanooga and had competitive games against quality teams like Mercer, EKU, Austin Peay, and Central Arkansas.

They return 18 starters with seven on offense, eight on defense, and three on special teams. WR Takairee Kenebrew and DB Edwin White Schultz are excellent players. North Alabama also landed about 13 FBS transfers, including QB Ari Patu from Stanford and DC Tabscott from New Mexico.

UNA gets the FCS Kickoff win in Montgomery, AL.

Prediction: North Alabama 24-21

Norfolk State vs. Florida A&M

The MEAC/SWAC Challenge, played in Atlanta, features the defending Celebration Bowl champs FAMU.

The Rattlers look to show they are still the HBCU team to beat with a convincing win over Norfolk State, who went 3-8 last year. FAMU has some question marks, losing its head coach and nine players to the FBS. However, the talent is still aplenty as the program brought in 30+ FBS transfers.

There is also a good nucleus of returning standouts, like OL Ashton Grable, DB Kendall Bohler, DB Deco Wilson, RB Kelvin Dean, WR Jamari Gassett, and DL Allen Smith.

Both squads will have new starting quarterbacks to open the 2024 campaign. FAMU announced FAU transfer Daniel Richardson is QB1, while JuCo transfer Jalen Daniels will start for Norfolk State. Preseason First Team All-MEAC selection Otto Kuhns will be sidelined for the first four games due to an NCAA ruling.

FAMU prides itself on defense. Finding success won’t be easy for Norfolk and its new starting QB.

Prediction: FAMU 28-14

BONUS PICK
No. 4 Montana State at FBS New Mexico

I only pick FCS vs. FCS games for these weekly prediction articles. But I’ll make an exception this week since there is a limited number of games.

Montana State opened as a 4.5-point favorite in early July. It is now MSU -11.5 on BetMGM.

This game reminds me of a Big Sky-Mountain West matchup last year. Idaho was favored by three points over Nevada. Idaho was clearly the better team, but books seemed hesitant to favor an FCS team over an FBS program by too much. The Vandals went on to win 33-6.

I don’t know if MSU will beat New Mexico 33-6. But I feel comfortable picking the Bobcats to win. And the spread is intriguing as well. 11.5 points is a lot for an FCS-FBS game. It’s the biggest FCS over FBS favorite since Old Dominion was favored by 14 at Idaho in 2013. ODU was transitioning to the FBS that year but was still considered an FCS team.

New Mexico has many unknowns. The Lobos lost most of their best players from last year’s 4-8 team. On the other sideline, Montana State is a serious FCS title threat as it returns most of last year’s 2-deep.

New Mexico was awful against the run in 2023, allowing 172.2 rushing yards per game to rank No. 103 in the FBS. Running the ball is MSU’s strength, even if the Cats will be without All-American center Justus Perkins and standout running back Julius Davis at the start of this season. They still have four players on the o-line with significant starting experience, and there is quality depth in the backfield. Scottre Humphrey can take over the lead role just fine. He averaged 8.0 yards per carry and rushed for 441 yards and eight scores last year as a freshman.

MSU’s defense may give up some explosive plays Saturday. But its offense will play ball-control with the ground game while Tommy Mellott shows off an efficient passing attack.

Prediction: Montana State 35-17

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