HBCU Football Week 5: Key Matchups and Predictions

Jackson, Mississippi – As the HBCU football season enters Week 5, several teams are emerging as potential postseason contenders. Top-ranked Jackson State, South Carolina State, and North Carolina Central are meeting preseason expectations, while teams like Alabama State, Delaware State, Grambling State, and Howard have also made impressive starts this season.

This week offers a slate of interconference matchups, particularly within the SWAC. Here are five notable games to look forward to:

5. Texas Southern (0-3, 0-1 SWAC) vs. Mississippi Valley State (0-3, 0-0 SWAC) on Saturday at 5:00 PM (SWAC TV) – Both head coaches, Terrell Buckley and Vincent Dancy, are in search of their first win. Historically, Mississippi Valley State has had the edge, winning their last contest against Texas Southern in 2019. The average score in their matches is expected to be close, with a prediction of Tigers 20, Delta Devils 17.

4. Delaware State (3-1) at Sacred Heart (3-1) on Saturday at 12:00 PM (ESPN+) – Delaware State aims to continue its strong performance, averaging over 30 points per game. Sacred Heart, with a recent win over Norfolk, could pose a challenge if they control possession. Hornets are predicted to win 30-21.

3. Grambling State (3-1, 0-0 SWAC) vs. Prairie View A&M (2-2, 1-0 SWAC) on Saturday at 7:00 PM (SWAC TV) – Grambling is pushing for a 4-1 record, but Prairie View A&M has a strong history against them. Expect a close contest with a final score of Panthers 27, Tigers 24.

2. Alabama State (2-1, 0-0 SWAC) at Florida A&M (1-2, 0-0 SWAC) on Saturday at 3:00 PM (HBCU GO) – With a painful loss from last season in mind, Alabama State looks for redemption against Florida A&M. The Hornets rely on quarterback Andrew Body’s performance, aiming for a victory after many years. Prediction: Hornets 31, Rattlers 17.

1. #19 Jackson State (2-1, 0-0 SWAC) at Southern (1-3, 0-0 SWAC) on Saturday at 7:00 PM (ESPN+) – Once seen as a matchup for the SWAC title, both teams are under pressure this week. Jackson State has faced scoring challenges and will need to improve to succeed, and the prediction is Tigers 28, Jaguars 20.

Fans can look forward to a thrilling weekend of HBCU football as these matchups unfold, determining who will advance on their winning paths.