Battle of the Real HU Returns to Washington, D.C. Amidst Transformative Era for HBCU Athletics
The highly anticipated “Battle of the Real HU” football rivalry between Howard University and Hampton University will reignite on September 20 at Audi Field in Washington, D.C. This historic matchup, part of the Truth and Service Classic that began in 2021, marks the 100th meeting between these two storied HBCUs and embodies more than just athletic competition—a celebration of deep-rooted tradition, excellence, and legacy.
For decades, Howard and Hampton have cultivated a fierce but respectful rivalry that energizes their campuses and alumni communities. Hampton currently leads the series 3-0 in recent years, but both programs view this game as a defining moment each season. “This isn’t just football. It’s a representation of pride for our institutions and the generations that have come before us,” said a coach familiar with the Bison-Pirates rivalry. The neutral-site game at Audi Field, home of D.C.’s MLS team, further elevates the event’s profile, providing a prominent stage befitting the teams’ histories and aspirations.
Beyond the gridiron, HBCU athletics are undergoing a revolutionary transformation following the landmark House v. NCAA settlement. Approved in 2025, this legal agreement allows schools to directly compensate athletes and engage in Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities. This change is monumental for HBCUs, which have historically grappled with limited financial resources compared to larger programs. Schools like Hampton, Howard, Morgan State, North Carolina A&T, and Maryland-Eastern Shore have all opted into this model, positioning themselves at the forefront of this new era.
Under the settlement, institutions can allocate upwards of $20.5 million annually to athlete compensation, with increments scheduled over the next decade. While this promise offers unprecedented financial benefits for student-athletes—enhancing recruitment and retention—it also imposes challenges. HBCUs must carefully manage financial obligations while striving to remain competitive, navigate booster interactions, and comply with evolving NCAA regulations. The Southwestern Athletic Conference’s decision to abolish scholarship caps exemplifies proactive adaptation, increasing roster flexibility to support expanding programs.
On the field, both Howard and Hampton enter the 2025 season with renewed focus. Howard’s football team looks to rebound from a 4-8 record last season, challenged to harness the momentum from high-profile opportunities such as the Orange Blossom Classic and the HBCU New York Classic, each played in NFL stadiums. The Bison will confront Hampton midseason in what is expected to be a pivotal game for both squads. Hampton’s schedule includes marquee contests such as the season opener against Jackson State and the traditional Battle of the Bay against Norfolk State. Both programs bring competitive rosters buoyed by passionate fan bases and energetic marching bands that are intrinsic to the HBCU game day experience.
The Battle of the Real HU is more than a rivalry; it’s a cultural event steeped in rich heritage. Alumni and supporters from both universities converge not only to watch football but to celebrate homecoming traditions, band performances, and community pride. The game’s return to Washington, D.C. reflects ongoing efforts to elevate HBCU sports visibility and create engaging experiences in major venues.
Looking ahead, this rivalry and the evolving landscape of athlete compensation underscore a critical juncture for HBCU sports. As these institutions leverage new financial possibilities and maintain their historical significance, they exemplify resilience and innovation within collegiate athletics. The exposure from games staged in prominent stadiums and the empowerment of athletes through NIL initiatives will likely bolster recruitment and competitiveness, enhancing HBCU football’s status nationally.
In sum, the Battle of the Real HU on September 20 symbolizes a bridging of tradition and progress—honoring a century-old rivalry while ushering in a transformative chapter fueled by athlete empowerment and institutional growth. For fans, players, and alumni, this game is a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy and bright future of HBCU athletics.