HBCU conference rivalries featured in Orange Blossom Classic

The 2024 Orange Blossom Classic features a break from the usual Jackson State vs Florida A&M matchup. This year’s energy is focused more on the SWAC/MEAC rivalry that is showcased normally in week zero and the Celebration Bowl. In 2024 we have an intriguing matchup between two formidable programs, Alabama State University and North Carolina Central University. Both teams are eager to kick off the season with a statement win in Miami Gardens, Florida, and this showdown provides a high-profile stage for them to demonstrate their collective strengths.

Alabama State , led by head coach Eddie Robinson Jr., is coming off a competitive season where they battled in the SWAC. This game against North Carolina Central, one season removed from a Celebration Bowl victory, is a crucial early test for the Hornets. Robinson embraces the challenge, knowing that a strong HBCU rival like NCCU will reveal much about his team.

“It’s always good when you start off the season playing a good team,” Robinson stated. “They’re picked to finish first in the MEAC, and that means they’re going to expose some of our weaknesses. They’ll show guys we thought could do it, and maybe they can’t. That’s what you want—so you get that out the way early.”

MEAC/SWAC Challenge energy

The MEAC/SWAC rivalry adds another layer to this matchup. The two conferences square off each year in the Celebration Bowl, making this early-season clash a significant litmus test for the caliber of both leagues. Robinson pointed to the recent success of the SWAC in the MEAC/SWAC Challenge, noting that it was the third straight win for his conference.

“We know the conferences are always playing the Celebration Bowl at the end of the year,” Robinson said. “I think it’s going to be a SWAC versus MEAC deal. Trei Oliver is big on representing the MEAC, and of course, I’m huge on representing the SWAC.”

On the other side, North Carolina Central enters the Orange Blossom Classic with high expectations. Head coach Trei Oliver led the Eagles to a 10-2 record in 2023, but missed a shot at the HBCU National Championship after two key losses late in the season. Oliver doesn’t put too much focus on early season wins, no matter how big, he instead remains focused on the rigorous path ahead.

HBCU Championship depends on how you finish

“You’ve got to go undefeated in conference,” Oliver emphasized when discussing NCCU’s mindset. “We had a tough non-conference schedule, and we beat a lot of really good non-conference teams. Beat a top-25 ranked Elon team. We beat a rival at their place, North Carolina A&T. We were battle-tested.”

Oliver is confident that the returning talent on his squad, along with their experience in high-pressure games, will help them rise to the challenge. Though there may be doubters after any setback, Oliver believes that NCCU is still one of the top programs in the country.

“We’re excited about the opportunity to return a lot of guys,” Oliver said. “We’re still a good football program. I know we got some doubters out there now that we lost a game, but we’ll be back.”

As the Orange Blossom Classic approaches, both teams are poised to make a statement. For Alabama State, it’s a chance to prove themselves against one of the best in HBCU football. For North Carolina Central, it’s another opportunity to remind everyone that the Eagles are a championship program. All eyes will be on Miami Gardens to see which team seizes the moment and starts their season on the right foot.

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