Central State University and Lane College Set to Clash in the 2025 Frederick Douglass HBCU Football Classic
Rochester, NY – The burgeoning tradition of the Frederick Douglass HBCU Football Classic continues to grow as Central State University and Lane College prepare to face off on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the Rochester Community Sports Complex. With kickoff scheduled for 1 p.m. EST and tickets set at $25, this matchup promises to deliver both competitive football and a celebration of HBCU culture and community.
In its second year, the Frederick Douglass Classic has quickly become more than just a football game. Debuting in 2024, the Classic is part of a larger “Weekend of Hope,” which includes a college fair, pep rally, and community events designed to uplift HBCUs and inspire local youth. These activities emphasize the event’s dual mission to showcase athletic competition and promote educational and cultural enrichment tied to the legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Central State University returns to Rochester for its second appearance in the Classic after competing in the inaugural game in 2024, where the Marauders fell to Albany State 28-7. This year, Central State brings fresh leadership under new head coach Tony Carter, a former NFL cornerback and highly regarded collegiate and professional coach. Carter’s commitment to reenergizing the Marauders’ football program is clear. At his introduction earlier this year, he emphasized building strong relationships within the university community and instilling a culture of discipline and excellence, aiming to revive Central State’s proud football heritage. Carter stated, “It’s time to bring a new and improved winning atmosphere to Marauder football, and I can’t wait to get to work.”
Lane College will make its Frederick Douglass Classic debut in 2025, marking an important milestone for the Tennessee-based Dragons. Competing in NCAA Division II within the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC), Lane carries a rich HBCU football tradition highlighted by resilience and athleticism. The program is also experiencing a new chapter with Stanley Conner, a longtime assistant coach and former standout player at Jackson State, taking the helm as head coach. Conner brings a focus on discipline, player development, and academic success, aiming to solidify Lane’s position as both a competitive and academically focused program.
The pairing of Central State and Lane College is significant not only as a football contest but as a symbol of the expanding visibility and impact of HBCU athletics. Both programs embody the deep cultural roots and community spirit that define the HBCU experience. The Frederick Douglass Classic is crafted to extend that spirit beyond the field, connecting student-athletes to educational opportunities and community engagement.
This Classic weekend features a rich schedule beyond the 1 p.m. kickoff. Starting with an HBCU Tailgate Party in the morning, fans can immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of Black college football culture. Following the game, a Battle of the Bands event showcases the famed marching band traditions that are integral to HBCU sporting events, providing a cultural feast that complements the athletic competition.
Statistically, the game offers intriguing dynamics. Central State’s recent history includes a transition under Coach Carter, whose NFL experience and coaching background promise to elevate the Marauders’ defense and overall competitiveness. Lane College, under Coach Conner, will look to leverage its SIAC experience and disciplined approach to challenge Central State, creating a compelling matchup of new coaching philosophies and energized rosters.
Looking ahead, this event signals the growing trend of using HBCU football classics as platforms for both athletic excellence and cultural representation. The Frederick Douglass Classic embodies a balance of competition and community, highlighting the comprehensive contributions of HBCUs to sports, education, and culture. For both Central State and Lane College, participation offers a stage to showcase their programs, attract recruits, and engage with passionate alumni and supporters in a broader national spotlight.
As the countdown to September continues, anticipation builds not only for an exciting football game but for an event that continues to expand the narrative and reach of HBCU athletics. With new coaches leading the way and a committed community behind them, Central State and Lane College stand ready to make a meaningful imprint on this growing Classic and the wider HBCU sports ecosystem.
Upcoming games and developments to watch include how both teams perform in their respective conferences leading into the Classic, as well as the evolution of their programs under new leadership. Fans and followers should keep an eye on the impact these matchups and cultural celebrations have in further elevating HBCU sports and traditions nationwide.