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HBCU GO: CIAA & SWAC FOOTBALL DOUBLEHEADER IN WEEK 11

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, November 8th 2025 at 14:54 GMT by Sports Illustrated
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Council of Ivy–Aly – Division II Showdown

The CIAA game, slated for Saturday afternoon, will see Delaware State University take on North Carolina Central University. Delaware State, under head coach David Thompson, has maintained a solid offensive line that averages 400 yards per game, while NC Central, led by coach James Allen, boasts a formidable defense that has held opponents to an average of 18 points in the last three games. The matchup is set to test both teams’ resilience as each battles for a spot in the CIAA tournament bracket.

Delaware State’s quarterback, Isaiah Thompson, who has thrown for 3,200 yards and 25 touchdowns this season, is expected to bring his dynamic playmaking to the field. Conversely, NC Central’s star linebacker, Keion Johnson, who has led the league with 14 sacks, will look to disrupt the Delaware State offense. The two programs have a history of close contests; the last meeting ended in a 24‑21 victory for Delaware State, a game that highlighted the intensity of the conference’s competitive balance.

The CIAA is a conference that prides itself on a strong emphasis on student‑athlete development, with several programs offering dual‑degree pathways that allow athletes to pursue advanced degrees while competing at a high level. The league’s commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its consistently high graduation rates, which stand at 78 %—well above the national average for Division II schools. Moreover, the CIAA has produced a number of NFL prospects, including former NFL running back Darius Hines, who began his collegiate career at Delaware State before being drafted by the Houston Texans.

Southwestern Athletic Conference – Division I FCS Power Play

On the other side of the doubleheader, the SWAC will host a clash between the Jackson State Tigers and the Alabama State Hornets. Jackson State, led by legendary quarterback Kyler Murray’s former coach Chris Johnson, is riding a three‑game winning streak that has put them firmly in the conversation for the conference championship. Alabama State, under first‑year head coach Brandon Smith, has demonstrated defensive prowess with a unit that has forced an average of 4.5 turnovers per game over the past season.

Jackson State’s offense, known for its aggressive spread formation, has averaged 35 points per game, while Alabama State’s defense has been ranked second in the conference for points allowed per game. Key players to watch include Jackson State’s wide receiver, Deion Moore, who has 22 receptions for 650 yards, and Alabama State’s defensive tackle, Jalen Brooks, who has been a disruptive force in the middle of the line.

The SWAC’s rich history of passionate crowds—often reaching capacity for games—adds to the allure of this match. The league’s fan culture is underscored by the tradition of the "Red & Black" and "Orange & White" banners that fill the stadiums, creating a vibrant atmosphere that often feels like a college football party. The SWAC also hosts the "HBCU National Championship" series, where top teams from the conference compete for the title of the best HBCU football program in the nation.

Significance of the Doubleheader

Both games arrive at a pivotal point in the HBCU football season. The CIAA matchup will influence which teams secure the final playoff berth, while the SWAC contest could determine the conference’s representative for the FCS playoffs. With both teams having shown consistent improvement, the outcomes will carry implications for future recruiting and the perceived strength of the conferences on the national stage.

Moreover, the doubleheader offers a chance for fans to witness a blend of styles: the tactical discipline of Division II play in the CIAA and the high‑energy spectacle of Division I FCS football in the SWAC. The contrast highlights the diversity within HBCU football, showcasing how institutional priorities and athletic ambitions converge to produce compelling competition.

Beyond the Games

The article also highlights additional fixtures in Week 11, including a traditional rivalry game between Grambling State and Southern University that continues to capture national attention. For fans and analysts alike, the week represents a microcosm of the broader HBCU football landscape: an ecosystem that balances tradition, community engagement, and the pursuit of athletic excellence.

In conclusion, Week 11’s HBCU doubleheader promises to deliver on all fronts—thrilling on-field action, historical rivalry, and the chance to see which teams will carry their respective conferences’ banners into the postseason. Whether you’re rooting for the meticulous academics of the CIAA or the electrifying culture of the SWAC, the games underscore why HBCU football remains a vital and vibrant part of the college football tapestry.