Game Details
Time: 12:30 PM ET
Location: Irwin Belk Complex, Charlotte, NC
Broadcast: CIAA Digital Network
Team Form & Trends
Johnson C. Smith Golden Bulls
Johnson C. Smith closed 2024 with a 5–5 record, blending a powerful rushing attack with timely play-action strikes. Over their last five outings, the Golden Bulls earned road wins at Livingstone (31–21) and Fayetteville State (28–24) but stumbled against Virginia Union (21–38) and Virginia State (14–35). Their offense averaged 29 points per game at home, though a secondary that surrendered 260 passing yards per contest remains a concern.
Morehouse Maroon Tigers
Morehouse went 3–7 in 2024, punctuating the season with a gritty 31–28 upset of Miles but suffering blowouts to Albany State (6–52) and Fort Valley State (20–42). The Maroon Tigers excelled generating pressure—28 sacks on the year—but inconsistent quarterback play and red-zone inefficiency (45% conversion) undermined sustained drives.
Tactical Breakdown
Johnson C. Smith will lean on downhill runs to set up play-action over the middle.
Morehouse needs to win early down with speed off the edges and force short fields.
Players to Watch
Johnson C. Smith Golden Bulls
RB Malik Johnson: Broke 1,000 rushing yards and scored 12 TDs in 2024.
QB Deandre Simmons: Threw for 2,200 yards and 20 TDs while limiting turnovers.
LB Amir Thompson: Led the Golden Bulls with 95 tackles and 5 sacks.
Morehouse Maroon Tigers
WR Denzel Robinson: Speed threat who averaged 18.5 yards per catch with 8 TDs.
DE Patrick Harris: Edge rusher who tallied 8 sacks and 3 forced fumbles.
S Cameron Lewis: Ballhawk safety with 4 interceptions and 9 breakups.
Game Odds
Johnson C. Smith Golden Bulls – 8
Morehouse Marron Tigers 48.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odd Direct as of Friday, August 29, 2025
