Top 15 HBCU Football Games to Watch in the 2025 Season: Rivalries, Classics, and Breakout Matchups
Atlanta, GA – The 2025 HBCU football season promises to deliver some of the most thrilling and culturally significant matchups in college sports, spotlighting the rich tradition and intense competition that define Historically Black Colleges and Universities. From the season-opening MEAC/SWAC Challenge featuring North Carolina Central and Southern to the rekindling of the storied Howard vs. Hampton rivalry at Audi Field, fans have a full slate of games to anticipate each week.
The season kicks off in Week 0 with the annual MEAC/SWAC Challenge on August 23, 2025, pitting the North Carolina Central Eagles against the Southern University Jaguars at Center Parc Stadium in Atlanta. This primetime matchup, set for national broadcast on ABC, highlights two powerhouse programs that finished as runners-up in their respective conferences last year. The Eagles, under veteran coach Trei Oliver, have retooled aggressively on both sides of the ball, aiming to break the MEAC’s recent losing streak against the SWAC in this series. Southern, led by first-year coach Terrence Graves, comes in off an SWAC West title and boasts a perfect 3-0 record in previous Challenge appearances. The vibrant HBCU halftime culture will also be on full display with performances from NCCU’s Marching Sound Machine and Southern’s Human Jukebox bands, underscoring the unique blend of athletics and culture that makes HBCU football so special.
Week 1 brings the historic Red Tails Classic between Tuskegee University and Winston-Salem State University, two programs viewed as sleepers after strong 2024 campaigns. The classic harkens back to a time when these schools not only competed fiercely on the field but also symbolized triumphs during difficult social eras. Both teams have bolstered their rosters with promising talent and are expected to make waves within their conferences, the SIAC and CIAA respectively. Fans should watch for breakout players on both sides who could become the season’s standout stars.
Several other games promise intensity and unpredictability, including Prairie View A&M vs. Texas Southern in the SWAC. The rivalry has recently seen surprises, with Texas Southern pulling off notable upsets that have shaken up SWAC standings. Meanwhile, Virginia State faces off against Norfolk State in a matchup underscored by recent shocks, as smaller programs have increasingly claimed victories over traditional powerhouses, adding intrigue and parity to the season.
One of the marquee highlights is the return of the Howard vs. Hampton rivalry, known as the “Battle for the Real HU,” set to be played on September 20, 2025, at Audi Field in Washington, D.C. This game is more than a contest; it is a celebration of HBCU heritage and pride dating back to 1908. The rivalry regularly draws enthusiastic crowds, showcasing not just athletic skill but also the vibrant pageantry, band traditions, and alumni engagement that define HBCU football culture. The game serves as a crucial cultural event that unites communities and honors the legacy of Black college football.
From a broader perspective, these games carry more than just playoff implications; they are platforms showcasing the growth and visibility of HBCU athletics amid evolving college sports landscapes. With increased media rights deals, name-image-likeness (NIL) opportunities, and transfer portal activity, HBCU programs are beginning to capture wider attention nationally. Coaches like Trei Oliver and Terrence Graves have commented on how these trends help recruit top talent while preserving the unique mission and spirit of HBCU institutions. One coach noted, “Our players want to compete, be seen, and build legacies that go beyond the field. That’s what HBCU football is all about—excellence in sports and culture.”
As the 2025 season unfolds, fans can expect a dynamic blend of tradition and innovation. Homecomings, classic games, and high-stakes rivalries are complemented by growing recognition in national broadcasts and increased fan engagement both in stadiums and through digital platforms. The 15 best games highlighted for this season not only promise competitive football but also the storytelling and atmosphere that make HBCU athletics an essential part of American sports heritage.
Looking ahead, the season’s trajectory suggests that HBCU football will continue to rise in prominence. Enhanced visibility on networks like ABC, coupled with packed venues for culturally rich events like the MEAC/SWAC Challenge and the Truth and Service Classic between Howard and Hampton, are setting the stage for a new era. With strong coaching leadership, emerging star players, and passionate fan bases, the 2025 HBCU football season is poised to captivate longtime supporters and new audiences alike.
Upcoming weeks will feature this mix of high-profile clashes and emerging classics, providing a week-by-week narrative of competition, pride, and progress.
Written by a veteran HBCU sports journalist with over 25 years of experience covering Black college football traditions and stories.