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HBCU football returns for the 2026 season kickoff weekend
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HBCU Football Is Back: A Loaded Opening Weekend

The 2026 season kicks off August 29 with Alabama A&M vs. Howard on ABC. Defending national champ South Carolina State leads the MEAC, Alabama State and Prairie View A&M top the SWAC, and a wave of star coaches — Michael Vick, DeSean Jackson and Marshall Faulk — arrives on HBCU sidelines.

Terrell Washington•8 min read•Aug 21, 2026

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Challenge Kickoff Headlines Opening Weekend Aug. 29
MEAC/SWAC
Season Kickoff

Challenge Kickoff Headlines Opening Weekend Aug. 29

Alabama A&M meets Howard in primetime on ABC as HBCU football returns with a loaded slate

Defending Champs Tabbed MEAC Preseason Favorite
MEAC
South Carolina State

Defending Champs Tabbed MEAC Preseason Favorite

The reigning Black College national champs drew five of nine first-place votes to lead the MEAC

Hornets Favored in the SWAC East for 2026
SWAC
Alabama State

Hornets Favored in the SWAC East for 2026

Alabama State pulled 16 first-place votes; QB Andrew Body is the Offensive Player of the Year favorite

Panthers Defend Their SWAC West Crown
SWAC
Prairie View A&M

Panthers Defend Their SWAC West Crown

The defending SWAC champs top the West with 19 first-place votes under coach Tremaine Jackson

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