Game Details
Date: Saturday, August 23, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Location: Center Parc Stadium, Atlanta, GA
Broadcast: ESPN (National Telecast)
Series History: NCCU leads 1–0 (last meeting: 2006, NCCU won 27–20)
North Carolina Central Eagles
2024 Record: 9–3 (MEAC runner-up)
Head Coach: Trei Oliver (6th year)
Strengths:
QB Walker Harris: Experienced leader with a deep WR corps
OL Unit: Entire starting line returns, praised as the best in Oliver’s tenure
Defense: Physical front seven, strong in challenge games (6–0 record in classics under Oliver)
Mindset: “Hope is out of the plan around here” — Oliver emphasizes preparation over hype
X-Factor: Familiarity with big stages — NCCU thrives in spotlight games
Southern University Jaguars
2024 Record: 8–4 (SWAC West Champions)
Head Coach: Eric Dooley (3rd year)
Strengths:
Transfer Talent: Rebuilt roster with FBS additions across defense and skill positions
WR Room: Speed and depth, led by senior playmaker Tyrell Jones
Band Advantage: The Human Jukebox brings elite energy to Atlanta
Challenge History: 3–0 all-time in MEAC/SWAC Challenge, last appearance in 2017
X-Factor: Defensive speed — Southern’s hybrid schemes could disrupt NCCU’s rhythm
Matchup Insights
| Category | N.C. Central | Southern U. |
| 2024 Record | 9–3 | 8–4 |
| Returning Starters | 16 | 13 |
| MEAC/SWAC Challenge | 1–1 | 3–0 |
| QB Experience | High | Moderate (new starter) |
| Coaching Stability | Strong (Oliver 6 yrs) | Building (Dooley 3 yrs) |
NCCU’s offensive line continuity could be the difference in a tight game
Southern’s defensive transfers and athleticism will test NCCU’s timing and tempo
Both teams are ranked Top 5 in HBCU preseason polls
Expect a physical, emotional battle with classic HBCU flair. NCCU’s experience in challenge games and offensive line dominance may give them the edge late, but Southern’s athleticism and swagger will keep it close.
