Southern Heritage Classic draws thousands to Liberty Park

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Tennessee State University and the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff have brought thousands of excited fans to Memphis for a weekend of football, fun, and community.

Tailgating was in full swing at Liberty Park on Saturday. The event went beyond football, with Greek step shows, battles of bands, parades, and youth education.

TSU Tigers and the UAPB Golden Lions fans gathered for the big matchup.

“It’s rivalry, it’s a friendly rivalry. We hope the best for both teams, but we think we could come out on top this year,” UAPB alum Glenn Hersey said.

For 35 years, the Southern Heritage Classic has celebrated HBCU spirit and community.

Last year’s game saw Tennessee take the win in this friendly rivalry.

“Classics go all the way back to the 60s, Grambling, Morgan, New York. HBCU football doesn’t get the press that NFL football gets,” HBCU alum A.D. Grimes said. “The fact that you can get 50 to 70,000 people to come and celebrate the culture is extremely important and we love the schools, the community, everybody that comes out just to enjoy the pageantry and the culture of Black college football.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.