Southern University and Jackson State University are gearing up for one of the most intense rivalries in HBCU football as they enter fall camp for the 2025 season. This matchup represents much more than a typical game—it’s a clash steeped in history, pride, and recent fierce competition as both teams vie to reclaim dominance in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). Southern is particularly motivated by past defeats to Jackson State and Florida A&M and is determined to turn the tide in the upcoming key games on September 27 against Jackson State and October 25 against Florida A&M.
The Southern-Jackson State rivalry, often known as the BoomBox Classic, is one of the marquee fixtures in HBCU sports. The series has a long history dating back to 1929 and remains fiercely competitive, with both programs tied at 35 wins apiece in their storied matchups, excluding vacated games. Over the past several seasons, these two schools have been SWAC powerhouses, combining to win four conference titles in the last years. Jackson State has held the upper hand in recent years, winning the last five meetings, including the previous two SWAC Championship games, which Southern is eager to avenge. The rivalry’s intensity is fueled not only by the on-field battles but also by the cultural significance and traditions surrounding the schools and their communities.
Heading into fall camp, Southern’s coaches and players are laser-focused on breaking Jackson State’s recent dominance. The Jaguars have revamped their strategies and emphasized physicality and discipline. Coach Carlos Anderson remarked, “We know what it takes to beat Jackson State—we’ve learned from our losses, and this season, we’re bringing that fire into every practice and game. Our players are hungry for redemption.” Southern’s roster features standout athletes on both sides of the ball, with running back JaMarcus Reed and linebacker Marquel Davis expected to play pivotal roles. Compared to the Tigers, who boast dynamic quarterback Elijah Thomas and a stout defensive front anchored by defensive end Chris Brown, these matchups promise to be compelling.
From a broader perspective, the SWAC continues to showcase strong HBCU football programs that blend athletic achievement with rich cultural traditions. Besides the Jackson State-Southern showdown, fans should keep an eye on the Florida A&M rivalry as the Rattlers have also been a significant contender in recent years. The Jackson State-Southern matchup has often drawn large crowds, frequently hosted at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium in Jackson or Ace W. Mumford Stadium in Baton Rouge, venues that serve as focal points for alumni and community gatherings, complete with marching bands, tailgate cultures, and homecoming festivities.
The 2025 Southern vs. Jackson State game on September 27 figures to be a high-stakes contest with playoff and title implications. For fans and recruits alike, the game reflects the best of what HBCU football offers: fierce competition, proud traditions, and a platform for athletes to shine. As Jackson State begins the season strong, including non-conference battles against FBS opponents like Southern Miss, Southern University aims to sharpen its tools in conference play and restore its place atop the SWAC hierarchy.
Meanwhile, the HBCU sports scene across the board is vibrant, with baseball garnering attention through the HBCU Swingman Classic held at Truist Park in Atlanta. This event spotlights top HBCU baseball talent and represents another facet of the expanding HBCU athletics landscape, emphasizing development, visibility, and celebration of Black college sports.
Looking ahead, Southern University’s pursuit of a SWAC title this fall is a storyline full of promise and urgency. The team is not just chasing a championship but also redemption and a reaffirmation of its historic place in HBCU football tradition. As the season unfolds, the Jaguars and Tigers will continue to captivate fans, advance their programs, and elevate the profile of HBCU athletics in an increasingly competitive collegiate sports environment.