By A1 Media Sports | July 2025
The countdown is on for one of the most anticipated events in HBCU athletics: the 2025 Cricket MEAC/SWAC Challenge Kickoff, celebrating its 20th anniversary with a blockbuster matchup between North Carolina Central University (NCCU) and Southern University. Scheduled for Saturday, August 23 at 7:30 PM ET at Center Parc Stadium in Atlanta, this year’s edition promises pageantry, power, and pride as two HBCU football giants collide on a national stage broadcast live on ABC.
For two decades, the MEAC/SWAC Challenge has served as more than just the start of the college football season—it’s been a vibrant celebration of HBCU culture, legacy, and competition. From its humble beginnings in Birmingham in 2005, to its evolution through Orlando and now its home in Atlanta, the Challenge has grown into a nationally televised event spotlighting premier HBCU programs and athletes. 
This year’s matchup holds special significance. Both NCCU and Southern narrowly missed appearances in last season’s Cricket Celebration Bowl, falling just one game short. Now, with redemption on the line, the teams will look to launch their 2025 campaigns with momentum and make a statement to the rest of the HBCU football landscape.
“We both want to start and finish in Atlanta,” said NCCU Athletic Director Dr. Skip Perkins, nodding to the symbolic full-circle nature of opening the season in the same city where it may ultimately end—in the Celebration Bowl. “We know what we’re getting into. Southern is a quality institution with great leadership. It’s going to be an absolute battle.”
Southern University Athletic Director Roman Banks echoed the sentiment. “Our opportunity has come, and we’re ready. Jaguar Nation travels well, and we’re looking forward to a special weekend in Atlanta.”
Under the leadership of Coach Trei Oliver, NCCU has reclaimed its position as a powerhouse in the MEAC, while Coach Terrence Graves leads a talented Southern Jaguars squad that’s hungry to add another W to their undefeated 3-0 record in MEAC/SWAC Challenge history. Both teams have been projected at or near the top of their respective conferences, adding even more intrigue to a matchup already buzzing with intensity.
Jay Walker, former Howard quarterback and ESPN analyst who’s covered every MEAC/SWAC Challenge since its inception, reminded attendees: “The road to the HBCU National Championship starts in Atlanta.” With both teams knocking on the championship door in recent years, this showdown could be a preview of the ultimate HBCU football finale in December.
But the MEAC/SWAC Challenge is about more than football. As Executive Director John Grant emphasized, “This is a celebration of pride, culture, and community.” The event will once again be surrounded by the rhythmic thunder of marching bands, the electric energy of Greek life, and the vibrant presence of alumni from across the country. Atlanta—dubbed the “HBCU Football Capital”—is the perfect backdrop.
Adding to the celebration is the continued support from title sponsor Cricket Wireless, which has played a pivotal role in elevating the event’s profile. Cricket’s Cindy Rozier, Assistant VP of Marketing, highlighted their commitment to HBCUs through scholarships, campus ambassador programs, and community partnerships, saying, “We’re not just showing up. We’re standing up for the future of these students and the communities they represent.”
As the Challenge enters its third decade, its purpose remains unchanged: to amplify HBCU excellence on the national stage. With two championship-caliber programs ready to square off, the 2025 Cricket MEAC/SWAC Challenge is poised to be a defining moment for both schools—and for the culture.
Kickoff is set for Saturday, August 23 at 7:30 PM EST. Tickets are available now, and fans unable to attend can tune in live on ABC. Whether in the stadium or watching from home, one thing’s for sure—HBCU football starts here.
