College football game mirrors Jackson State coach’s rebuild

BIRMINGHAM, AL — Before becoming the head coach at Jackson State University, T.C. Taylor uniquely honed his leadership skills—by running a college football team on the popular NCAA Football video game series.

A bearded, slightly-more seasoned Taylor beamed with a nostalgic smile when asked about his prowess, revealing he called himself ‘the don’ of the series back in the day.

“Yeah, I used to play it. I loved it. I hated when they went away with it,” Taylor said . “I’ve never been a Madden guy, you know? I was always a college guy. That college football was my thing. But it’s good to have it back, man.

This virtual experience may have laid a playful yet significant foundation for his eventual real-life role leading his alma mater. Taylor talked about the whirlwind of excitement and challenges when reflecting on his first year as a head coach in real life.

“Last year, I was the new kid on the block,” Taylor told HBCU Gameday during the 2024 SWAC Football Media Day in Birmingham, AL . “Now they call me the Old Head, with five new head coaches this season. The change is real quick, and I’m just taking it all in and excited about the season.”

Taylor’s initial season brought both highs and lows, including a notable win against Buddy Pough’s South Carolina State team in the MEAC/SWAC Challenge. It ended up with a resounding victory and the Jackson State fans chanting his name in the thick, warm heat of that August night in Atlanta.

“It was awesome,” Taylor recalled. “Everything led up to that moment. We were 7-4, but we know we have to be better in certain phases.”

Taylor has managed a revolving door of coaching staff and players, navigating the dynamic nature of college football in 2024. Last season he had to replace dozens of players following the departure of Deion Sanders from the program. This spring he’s had to replace multiple coaches who have gone on to other programs.

“Anytime you lose coaches to other programs, you know you had the right coaches,” Taylor noted. “We’ve brought in six new high-energy coaches with incredible knowledge. Last year, we had to replace close to 50 or 60 players, leaning heavily on the transfer portal. This year, we have a good core group returning and have recruited some highly touted high school players.”

One of the season’s highlights is the renewal of the home-and-home series against Florida A&M (FAMU). After three years as a neutral site classic, the game returns to Jackson, MS. Taylor is particularly excited about this change.

“To have it home-and-home is what I remember as a player. It’s going to be special,” he said. “Playing in Jackson is huge for our football team, as well as for the city’s economy with revenue, ticket sales, hotels, and restaurants all benefiting.”

As Taylor embarks on his second season, he embraces the lessons learned and the opportunities ahead. His journey from a virtual coach in a video game to a real-life head coach at Jackson State University is a testament to his passion for the game and his commitment to excellence.

While he admits to being a bit rusty on the college football video game — his son had to explain the big deal about the number of players competing online — the excitement surrounding the game’s return mirrors the enthusiasm for Jackson State’s upcoming season.

“My kids have been blowing me up about it, trying to get me on the sticks,” Taylor laughed. “It’s been a long time, but it’s good to have it back.”

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