Howard University and Hampton University are set to renew one of the longest-running and most culturally significant rivalries in HBCU football history—the “Battle for the Real HU.” On September 20, 2025, the fifth annual Truth and Service Classic will take place at Audi Field in Washington, D.C., bringing these two historic programs together once again in a showcase that transcends sports and highlights the rich traditions and pride of HBCU athletics.
The rivalry between Howard and Hampton began in 1908 and has grown into a centerpiece event that captures the essence of HBCU football culture. Known as “The Real HU,” the series speaks to more than just athletic competition; it reflects the shared heritage and prestige of two institutions often referred to as Black Ivy League schools. The matchup is a unifying celebration, drawing alumni, students, and fans who recognize the broader cultural legacy tied to these annual games.
As of today, Hampton leads the all-time series with a record of 74 wins, 57 losses, and 1 tie. Hampton has held a dominant recent stretch, remaining unbeaten in the Truth and Service Classic games at Audi Field. Their current winning streak in the historic rivalry extends to eight games, underscoring the fierce competitive nature of the matchup. The last meeting on September 21, 2024, saw Hampton edge Howard 27-20 in a tightly contested battle attended by over 16,000 passionate fans, reinforcing the rivalry’s continued intensity and significance.
The recent contests have been defined by a balance of outstanding athletic performances and spirited competition. Howard’s team, coached by Larry Scott, has shown resilience and high-level play, while Hampton, under interim head coach Trent Boykin, has leveraged a balanced offense with a strong running game and multiple quarterbacks. Both sides emphasize that this game is about more than just football; it’s about pride, tradition, and representing the best of HBCU excellence.
Greg McGhee, the quarterback coach for Howard and a former quarterback who played in the 2011 game that snapped Hampton’s prior winning streak, stated, “The thing I appreciate most about this game is that we get a chance to show how two HBCUs have a great balance between academics and athletics. At the end of the day, this game is all about pride.” His words underscore the cultural significance of the rivalry beyond the gridiron.
Historically, the rivalry has been played mostly on home campuses at Armstrong Stadium and Greene Stadium but has also been hosted at major venues such as Polo Grounds, Giants Stadium, RFK Stadium, and now Audi Field, elevating its profile both locally and nationally. This evolving stage reflects the growing media interest and increasing recognition of HBCU sports across broader audiences.
The Truth and Service Classic is not only a football game; it is an event that brings together HBCU traditions including the famous marching bands, homecoming festivities, and community engagement. It serves as a rallying point for alumni networks and current students, fostering a strong sense of identity and unity.
Looking ahead, the 2025 matchup will be a key moment for both programs as they seek to build on their legacies and capitalize on emerging trends in college athletics such as NIL opportunities and transfer portal dynamics, which are starting to influence recruiting and player development in the HBCU landscape. The continued success and high-profile nature of the Truth and Service Classic will also contribute to increasing media rights value and broader exposure for HBCU sports.
As the rivalry continues to grow in stature and significance, it remains a powerful reminder that HBCU football is about more than wins and losses; it is about celebrating a proud cultural heritage, showcasing athletic excellence, and inspiring future generations of Black student-athletes.
Upcoming games this season will continue to test both teams as they compete within their respective conferences and national schedules, but the spotlight on the Truth and Service Classic remains bright, promising another thrilling chapter in this historic rivalry.
This enduring series between Howard and Hampton exemplifies the heart and soul of HBCU athletics—a blend of fierce competition, historical importance, community pride, and cultural celebration that resonates far beyond the football field.