HBCU football squads ranked nationally entering Oct.

After one month of HBCU football several teams are ranked nationally in both the FCS and Division I polls.

Florida A&M, the reigning HBCU national champions, is ranked 22nd in the American Football Coaches Association Poll at the FCS level.

Johnson C. Smith made its entry into the Division II AFCA rankings, ranking 24th among D2 programs.

Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU) football is off to a historic start in the 2024 season, boasting a 5-0 record for the first time since 1969. Under head coach Maurice Flowers, the Golden Bulls have shown remarkable improvement, led by standout performances from quarterback Darius Ocean and running back Quavaris Crouch. Key victories include a 21-13 win over Tuskegee in the Red Tails Classic and a pivotal 21-16 triumph over defending CIAA champions Virginia Union. JCSU’s strong offense and tenacious defense have positioned them as serious contenders in the CIAA this season.

It has been quite the start for one of the first two programs — along with rival Livingstone College — in HBCU football.

Florida A&M’s 2024 football season has been marked by highs and lows. The Rattlers started strong, securing a thrilling 24-23 comeback win over Norfolk State in the MEAC/SWAC Challenge. They followed this up with a victory against South Carolina State. However, the reigning HBCU national champions faced tough losses against FBS opponents, falling 56-9 to Miami and 34-12 to Troy, bringing their record to 2-2. A scheduled game against Alabama A&M was postponed due to Tropical Storm Helene, pushing their next matchup to late November.

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