Game Details
Time: 5:00 PM ET
Location: Charlie W. Johnson Stadium, Columbia, SC
Broadcast: CIAA Digital Network
Team Form & Trends
Fayetteville State Broncos
Coming off a 5–6 2024 campaign, the Broncos leaned on a high-octane offense that scored 32+ points in four games but sputtered in the red zone (45% conversion).
In their Labor Day Classic history, FSU is 3–3 all-time against Benedict, having won the most recent meeting in 2019 by a 35–21 score. They’re unbeaten at home in the series but still chasing that first road win at Charlie W. Johnson Stadium.
Strengths: Quick-strike passing game, dynamic screen packages, special teams returns.
Concerns: Turnover margin (–12 in 2024), occasional breakdowns on third-down defense.
Benedict Tigers
The Tigers wrapped 2024 at 4–7, punctuating the year with back-to-back wins over Miles and Clark Atlanta before dropping three straight.
Columbia’s Tigers have leaned on a ground-and-pound attack, ranking top-5 in the SIAC in rush attempts last season, but they averaged just 3.8 yards per carry.
Strengths: Physical offensive line, opportunistic front seven (27 sacks in 2024).
Concerns: Offensive efficiency (28% red-zone success), pass protection vs. zone-blitz schemes.
Tactical Breakdown
FSU will look to neutralize Benedict’s front seven with quick throws and bubble screens, forcing defenders out of gaps.
Benedict counters by grinding the clock on the ground and testing FSU’s stamina with heavy personnel in short-yardage situations.
Players to Watch
Fayetteville State Broncos
QB Jerome Costley: Returned starter who threw for 2,100 yards and 18 TDs in 2024.
RB Deshon Srothers: Breakaway back with 950 yards and 11 rushing scores.
WR Sheldon Lewis: Field-stretcher averaging 16.8 yards per catch and 7 TDs.
DE Joseph Perry: Edge attacker with 7.5 sacks and 12 TFLs.
Benedict Tigers
QB Davion Anderson: Dual-threat who totaled 1,800 passing yards and 8 rushing TDs.
RB Christian Johnson: Power runner with 820 yards on just 165 carries.
WR James Holder: Slot weapon hauling in 55 catches for 630 yards.
LB Marcus Thompson: Run-stopper led team with 98 tackles and 3 sacks.
Game Odds
Fayetteville State Broncos – 6.5
Benedict Tigers 50.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Friday, August 29, 2025
