That moment became the gut-punch finale of Brick x Brick with JCSU Football: Season Two, showing a team crushed by back-to-back losses and a postseason dream slipping away. They had lost games, lost control of their fate, and lost their shot at history.

But they never lost their belief.

This time, the room looked different. Hats from the 2025 CIAA Championship clung to their heads like they had them on for 24 hours straight. The Brick x Brick cameras captured smiles instead of silence. And the room exploded when their name was announced as the two-seed in the newly formed Super Region 1.

They didn’t erupt because they were simply happy to get in. They erupted because hearing their name announced as the 10-1 CIAA champions and a top team in all of Division II football was an audible affirmation that their ‘Brrick x Brick’ rebuild was a success.

Coach Maurice Flowers made that point immediately. “We’re not just happy to be here. This is what we earned as a No. 2 seed.”

A Celebration With Purpose

The reaction wasn’t about arrival. It was about validation. The Golden Bulls earned the CIAA’s automatic bid, the No. 2 seed, and a home playoff game at “The Cut”, the nickname for the Irwin Belk Complex, a stadium with one of the best skyline views in the country.

Flowers quickly shifted from celebration to perspective. He pointed back to the earliest days of the rebuild. He shouted out the “day one” players — the ones ‘Brick x Brick’ fans have watched grow for three seasons.

“When we first got here, there were two guys that were here from day one”

He reminded the team that Defensive Lineman Steny Joseph joined the program when it was 1–9. Joseph could have walked away after last year’s heartbreak. Instead, he told Flowers, “Coach, I’m not going out like that. I’m coming back.”

Those stories shaped the foundation of the program. They also shaped the ‘Brick x Brick’ series, where quiet freshmen have grown into vocal leaders over the course of three seasons.

Flowers pointed to that evolution. “Last year, when we sat in this room and didn’t hear our name called… It’s about growth, man. And we really aren’t done yet.”

A Champion Returns: Tom Baldwin’s “You Got One” Moment

Then, the legends stepped forward.

Tom Baldwin, a member of the historic 1969 CIAA Championship team, walked to the front of the room. He lifted his hand and pointed to his championship ring — just like he did in ‘Brick x Brick’ Season Two after JCSU started 6–0.

Back then, he looked at the team and told them, “Your turn.” This time, he smiled, tapped the ring again, and said, “You got one.”

Baldwin went on to discuss what this season meant to the JCSU community.

“I saw folks I hadn’t seen since I graduated in 1971… You won’t wait another 56 years.”

He also delivered one of the night’s best metaphors:

“How do you purify gold? You put it over fire, you skim off the impurities, you keep going until you can see your reflection. That’s what you are — pure.”

The message hit home. This CIAA championship team had been forged the same way — through pressure, fire, and perseverance.

Sheriff Garry McFadden: “You’ve Woken Up Generations”

Next came Mecklenburg County Sheriff and proud JCSU alum Garry McFadden. His voice boomed before he even reached the front.

“You all don’t even know what you did. You have woken up generations.” He described alumni caravanning to Durham, families returning after years away, and Charlotte lifting its head with pride again.

Then he guaranteed that the city would stand behind them for the playoffs: “When it comes to The Cut — we’ll be there to serve.”

President Valerie Kinloch: “You Are the Prize”

Finally, President — and alum — Valerie Kinloch addressed the team. If you watch ‘Brick x Brick’, you know her face well. She appears throughout the series, offering sideline encouragement and speaking directly to the players after games. Kinloch hasn’t missed a single matchup this season.

She told them why. “It’s because I see myself in all of you.”

She shared stories of long-lost alumni returning. She discussed how the team helped rebuild campus pride. Then she offered one of the most powerful messages of the night. “Whatever you do in the world, I want you to know that you are a prize.”

Brick x Brick: From Documented Pain to Documented Progress

Everything in the room — every cheer, every message, every emotion — is now part of the next chapter of Brick x Brick.

Last year’s scene, the silent heartbreak of not hearing their name called, became a bookmark in JCSU program history. This year’s scene ensures that moment is a footnote, not a forward. These Selection Sunday moments will be featured in a future episode centered on JCSU football’s first-ever home playoff game.

‘Brick x Brick’ will remain in production throughout the Golden Bulls’ 2025 postseason run, as the documentary series continues to capture one of the most inspiring HBCU football turnarounds of all time, in real time.

The heartbreak. The rebuild. The belief. And now the payoff.

The Road Ahead: Frostburg State Comes to The Cut

JCSU now prepares to host Frostburg State in Round One of the DII Playoffs. Flowers made it clear they won’t look too far ahead. “One day at a time. One opponent at a time.”

Then he reinforced their identity. “We’re undefeated at home. And someone’s got to come down to The Cut.”

Home-field advantage has become part of JCSU’s personality. The Cut is loud, proud, and packed with energy — and now it will host playoff football for the first time.

The New Face of HBCU DII Football

Johnson C. Smith spent more than five decades stuck between hope and history. Breaking that drought didn’t come from luck. It came from alumni support, community connection, culture-building, and a team that bought into something bigger than itself.

Brick x Brick.

The post A Year After Heartbreak, JCSU Football Rises as Playoff Host appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

CIAA Sends Two: JCSU and Virginia Union

The CIAA will enter the postseason with two programs—one a rising newcomer and the other an established powerhouse.

Johnson C. Smith: A First-Time Invite

The headline of the bracket is clear: CIAA champion Johnson C. Smith is officially dancing.

At 10–1 overall, the Golden Bulls secured the No. 2 seed in Super Region One, earning both a home game and national respect for the most remarkable season in school history.

This marks JCSU’s first NCAA Division II playoff appearance, a feat decades in the making. Their reward is a home matchup against Frostburg State (9–2), a physical program with postseason experience. But with a conference title, ten wins, and newfound national attention lifting the program, the Bulls enter as one of the region’s most intriguing teams.

Virginia Union: A Four-Year Playoff Run

Joining them is Virginia Union, the CIAA runner-up and one of the hottest programs in Division II.

At 9–2, VUU secured the third seed in Super Region One and will host California (PA) in Richmond.

This selection marks Virginia Union’s fourth consecutive playoff appearance, stretching back to 2022—an unprecedented run for the school and a testament to the sustained excellence built under Dr. Alvin Parker. Last season, the Panthers made national noise by winning two playoff games, the deepest run in program history. They’ll look to build on that momentum again with home-field advantage to start.

SIAC Makes HBCU History With Three Playoff Teams

If the CIAA’s showing is impressive, the SIAC’s haul is historic.

For the first time ever, the conference will send three HBCUs to the Division II playoffs, including the top seed in Super Region Two.

Albany State: No. 1 in the Region

Albany State enters the postseason as the No. 1 seed in Super Region Two after finishing 10–1 overall. Their only loss came to FCS program Florida A&M, making the Golden Rams one of the most battle-tested teams in the country.

ASU will host Valdosta State, the same program that previously fell to Johnson C. Smith earlier this season. It’s a matchup dripping with storyline potential—and one that Albany State enters with supreme confidence after dominating the SIAC from start to finish.

Benedict: Still Dangerous at 9–2

Benedict College (9–2) returns to the postseason after finishing as runner-up in the SIAC Championship Game.
The Tigers earned an at-large bid and will travel to face Wingate (9–2) in what promises to be a hard-hitting, defensive battle. Benedict remains one of the region’s premier programs, fully capable of making another deep playoff push.

Kentucky State: A Breakthrough Moment

Completing the SIAC trio is Kentucky State, which will make its first NCAA Division II playoff appearance after a 9–2 breakthrough season.

The Thorobreds will head to South Carolina to face No. 3 seed Newberry (9–1), a heavyweight with a strong résumé. But KSU’s physical brand and resurgent defense give them a chance to shock the region and extend their historic season.

A Landmark Weekend Ahead

All first-round games will take place this Saturday, kicking off a postseason unlike any we’ve seen in Division II HBCU football history. With five programs in the field—two from the CIAA and three from the SIAC—Black college football has an opportunity to make an unmistakable imprint on the national playoff landscape.

Prepare for a historic weekend. And get ready to see how many HBCU programs advance as the road to the Division II national championship begins.

The post HBCU Football Makes History in NCAA D2 playoffs appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Powered by a standout performance from quarterback Kelvin Durham, dominant red-zone execution, and a defense that made all the right adjustments, JCSU officially planted its flag atop the Division II HBCU football landscape. Afterward, head coach Maurice Flowers reminded everyone, “We aren’t done yet.”

A Championship Built Brick x Brick

Even before the championship, this run had already been documented from within. The HBCU Gameday Original Docuseries, Brick x Brick with JCSU Football, has been inside the locker rooms, buses, practice fields, and sidelines for the past three seasons — capturing everything from early adversity to the quiet confidence that propelled JCSU from heartbreak in 2024 to a championship moment in 2025.

Durham’s Masterclass: 5 TDs and Complete Control

Senior quarterback Kelvin Durham delivered the type of performance that shifts a program’s trajectory. He threw for 285 yards and five touchdowns on an efficient 16-of-29 passing night, carving up the Virginia Union defense with poise, pace, and precision.

Ultimately, he became the quarterback Flowers always believed the program needed. “We felt like we were a quarterback away,” Flowers said. “And now you’re seeing why.”

Durham wasn’t shy about why JCSU fit him so well, either. “Coach Flowers took a chance on me,” he said. “He taught me how to read a defense, how to play faster, how to be a better quarterback. This was the place for me.”

Proctor and Brigman Torch VUU Secondary

Durham’s big night wasn’t a solo act.

– DeAndre Proctor: 7 catches, 146 yards, 2 TD (58-yard long) Game MVP
– Reggie Brigman: 3 catches, 61 yards, 2 TD
– Reginald Daniel: 33-yard TD on his only catch of the night

Whenever Virginia Union fought back, JCSU responded with explosive answers through the air. Their 387 total yards came from a combination of balance, efficiency, and matchup exploitation.

Defense Sets the Tone in Second Half

Virginia Union outgained JCSU on the ground (238 rushing yards to JCSU’s 102). However, the Golden Bulls made every high-leverage play that mattered.

JCSU forced two interceptions, held VUU scoreless in the third quarter, and delivered consistent pressure that disrupted the Panthers’ timing.

The tackling sheet reflected a full-team effort:

– Vincent Hill: 7 tackles
– Jalen Alexander / Cadricus Stanley / TyQueron Hines: 6 each
– Kristian Eanes: 5 tackles and a TFL
– Latrae Bass: pivotal interception late in the game

Flowers praised the unit openly. “We’ve been led by our defense for the past year,” he said. “They set the identity.”

A Program Reborn — At Its Alma Mater

If the CIAA championship felt personal for the players, it carried even more weight for their head coach.

Flowers once played quarterback at JCSU — a three-time All-American who never had the chance to win big games the way his players just did. Consequently, the moment hit even harder.

“It feels like confirmation,” Flowers said. “To build this at my alma mater… there’s nothing like it.”

He thanked his family — especially his wife and daughters — for pushing him and keeping him accountable. “When we don’t play well, I hear about it at home,” he laughed.

Not Just Champions

JCSU didn’t just win the CIAA championship. They punched their ticket to the NCAA Division II playoffs and will likely earn the first home postseason game in school history.

HBCU Football’s Newest Heavyweight

In a season where HBCU football drew national cameras, viral moments, and major storylines, JCSU’s climb from 2–7 to CIAA champions stands next to the best of them.

From culture to leadership to the transformation of the city around the program, the Golden Bulls have become one of the most compelling stories anywhere in HBCU athletics. And thanks to Brick x Brick, the rest of the world gets to witness every step of it.

The post JCSU Football Claims First CIAA Title in 55 Years appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Premiering Nov. 13 at 8 p.m. EST, right in the heart of CIAA Championship Week, this episode takes fans deep inside the Golden Bulls’ must-win road trip to Virginia State, a matchup that functioned like a midseason playoff game. The stakes were simple: win and stay alive in the CIAA title hunt. Lose, and the road to Salem shuts down.

And after suffering their only loss of the season to back-to-back CIAA champion Virginia Union just two weeks prior, JCSU’s response would reveal exactly who they were becoming.

From 2 Wins to a Championship Window: The Rebuild Comes Into Focus

Brick x Brick has followed JCSU through every stage of its transformation — from a 2-win program to the doorstep of the CIAA championship game. Episode 5 puts that entire rebuild into context.

Inside the visitors’ locker room in Petersburg, JCSU didn’t look like a team weighed down by pressure. They looked loose, energized, and ready to take ownership of their season.

“Last year we started 8–0 and didn’t handle adversity well,” Coach Flowers told his team before kickoff, reminding them of the lessons that still fueled their climb. “This is a great opportunity to show how much we’ve grown.”

It wasn’t just motivation. It was a mission.

The Energy Shift: Two Virginia Trips, Two Completely Different Teams

Brick x Brick doesn’t hide the contrast.

Two weeks earlier at Virginia Union, JCSU never matched their opponent’s juice — something Coach Flowers openly addressed. Against Virginia State, the Bulls brought the opposite energy. They danced, they communicated, they locked in.

A Must-Win Turns Into a Statement (Sentence Form)

When the game kicked off, JCSU wasted no time setting the tone. Kelvin Durham hit Reggie Daniel for a jump-ball touchdown that pushed the Bulls ahead 10–0, while X-Force Quavaris Crouch opened the afternoon playing like he was shot out of a cannon.

The defense continued to apply pressure, blocking a field goal and forcing Virginia State into mistakes that shifted momentum back to JCSU. Late in the third quarter, Durham found Isaiah Perry streaking down the seam for a 41-yard strike, stretching the lead to 31–14 and signaling that the Bulls had taken control of both the game and their season.

Even when Virginia State mounted a fourth-quarter push, JCSU responded with poise, playing with a confidence and urgency that felt new. By the time the home crowd started heading for the exits, the Bulls had secured a 31–20 win and delivered a clear message: this wasn’t just survival — it was a statement.

A Championship-Caliber Turn

Brick x Brick highlights more than football moments — it captures cultural shifts. The Virginia State win wasn’t just about standings. It was about identity.

You see a team that learned from last year’s stumble. A team that handled adversity instead of shrinking from it. A team that looked, moved, and celebrated like a championship contender.

The episode closes with JCSU heading into the bye week 5–1, with everything still within reach — the CIAA championship game, the DII playoff push, and the chance to finish one of the great modern HBCU turnaround stories.

Episode 5 Premieres Nov. 13 — And It’s a Must-Watch

With the CIAA crown still hanging in the balance, Brick x Brick with JCSU Football | Set the Temperature debuts at the perfect time. Championship week. High stakes. High energy. And a program built ‘Brick x Brick’, now staring at the ultimate breakthrough.

Tune in Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 8 p.m. EST on the HBCU Gameday YouTube channel as the Golden Bulls continue their climb from 2-win underdogs to a legitimate HBCU title threat. The episode will be available to stream on HBCUGameday.com and the Gameday App.

The post Brick x Brick Drops New Episode Ahead of CIAA Title Game appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

“This is a fantastic time at JCSU,” said head coach Maurice Flowers, standing before a room of reporters ahead of Saturday’s showdown with Virginia Union. “We’re excited to be part of history. Now we want to finish the week strong and prepare the right way for Durham.”

\The Golden Bulls have been climbing for years. Flowers, a proud JCSU alum and former player, rebuilt the program brick by brick into one of the most complete teams in HBCU Division II football. The Bulls now sit in the national Top 25, one win away from a title the school hasn’t claimed since 1969.

“Championships Are Won When It’s Cold”

Balancing the excitement of the CIAA Championship with focus defines this team. “From day one, I told our players — the goal isn’t just to make it here,” Flowers said. “We want to reach the playoffs and compete for a D2 national championship. Championships are won when it’s cold.”

That phrase has become more than a motto. Practices this week have stayed sharp and demanding — no hoodies under helmets, no excuses, no soft reps.

“We don’t even use the word ‘cold,’” Flowers added. “We must play well when the weather changes because that’s when champions are made.” As a result, the Bulls enter Saturday tougher, tighter, and mentally locked in.

Facing the Reigning Champs Again

Saturday’s opponent is familiar: Virginia Union, the back-to-back CIAA champion and the only team that beat JCSU this season. “We respect Virginia Union,” Flowers said. “They’ve got a great staff, they recruit well, and they teach well. But we’ve beaten that program before. We just have to do it again.”

Even so, he knows what went wrong last time. “We didn’t handle third and fourth downs the way we should have,” Flowers admitted. “Those moments decide games. That’s what we worked on all week.”

This time, he wants execution — not emotion — to decide the outcome.

Alumni Pride and Charlotte Energy

Beyond the field, the championship carries emotional weight. For Flowers, this run is about restoring pride to both the HBCU and the city that raised him. “As a Charlottean, I’ve seen the lean years,” he said. “It feels good because Charlotte is a top city in the world. We’ve got winners here, and I’m proud to represent Johnson C. Smith as a winner in Charlotte.”

Meanwhile, alumni from the 1969 championship team continue to rally behind the Bulls. They’ve shown up with rings on their fingers and a message in their hearts: “It’s your turn.” “Anytime your name gets mentioned with Coach Eddie McGirt, that’s major,” Flowers said. “But we’re not done. There’s more history to write.”

A Champion’s Mindset

The 2025 team motto, “Not Done Yet,” has evolved into a mindset. “Our guys don’t believe in ‘good enough,’” Flowers said. “We trust our formula. If we play well, we win.”

That confidence shows up in clutch moments. During last week’s rivalry win, wideout DeAndre “Biggie” Proctor even called his own shot. “He gave a signal,” Flowers recalled. “My quarterback coach said, ‘Coach, he wants that play.’ We called it — touchdown. That’s who we are. We believe in each other.”

Building a National Brand

Behind the rise sits a foundation of academics, structure, and faith in the process. “When we started, our team GPA wasn’t where it needed to be,” Flowers said proudly. “Now it’s a 3.16. That’s a championship too.”

Furthermore, JCSU has established an HBCU recruiting base that spans from Charlotte to Florida and Georgia. Flowers knows how to sell his city.

“We take recruits to the top of the stadium and tell them, ‘Look at that skyline — that’s your future,’” he said. “Charlotte is a winning city, and we’re bringing a championship here.”

Next Up: The CIAA Title and a DII Playoff Push

No matter what happens at the CIAA Championship game, JCSU has already built something lasting — a championship culture ready to make a Division II playoff run.

Flowers’ message heading into the title game was clear. “We have to take advantage of this opportunity because there’s no guarantee we get back here,” he said. “It’s a special time, but we have to finish the job.”

The post JCSU Eyes History Under Flowers’ ‘Brick x Brick’ Vision appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The victory not only secured the most wins in school history but also sent JCSU football to the CIAA championship game, setting the stage for another program milestone in the Brick x Brick era. The program’s culture-shifting journey, chronicled in HBCU Gameday’s docuseries “Brick x Brick with JCSU Football.”

“This is history,” Coach Maurice Flowers, a Charlotte native, said after the game, his voice full of both pride and relief. “We did so many things that have not been done in so long. And some things that have never been done. As an alumnus and as a Charlottean, I’m so proud to represent this city and this university.”

Durham, Smith Power the Golden Bulls

Quarterback Kelvin Durham showed veteran poise in the clutch moments of the game, completing 16 of 29 passes for 186 yards and a touchdown. His favorite target, Deandre Proctor, hauled in seven catches for 79 yards and a game winning 24-yard score.

But the engine of the offense was running back Bobby T. Smith, who bullied his way to 164 yards and a touchdown on 37 carries, controlling the clock and wearing down Livingstone’s defense.

Behind him, the Golden Bulls dominated possession time (41:13 to 18:46) and piled up 348 total yards to Livingstone’s 237. Yet, it still came down to grit, late-game defense, and belief — two things that define JCSU’s climb under Flowers.

“We’ve lost these games before,” Flowers said. “But that’s part of the maturation process. You’ve got to learn from the heartbreak before you can build something lasting.”

Fourth-Down Faith and a Championship Culture

The moment that defined JCSU’s culture didn’t come on a touchdown — it came on a gamble. Up 26–21 in the fourth quarter, Coach Maurice Flowers faced a crucial decision deep in Livingstone territory: kick the field goal and play it safe, or go for it and trust his team to close.

He chose faith. “We had fourth down and folks are saying, ‘Kick the field goal, kick the field goal,’” Flowers recalled. “But when you kick a field goal, you risk penetration, a block, and then they get a score without having your best weapon on the field. For us, that defense is a doggone weapon.”

JCSU didn’t convert on the fourth down — but moments later, the Golden Bulls’ defense, their “best weapon,” came through with a game-clinching interception, sealing a victory that was more about identity than stats.

That trust had already been tested earlier. Quarterback Kelvin Durham had opened the second half in Charlotte with a pick-six, a moment that could’ve unraveled lesser teams. Instead, he responded with composure, later connecting with Deandre Proctor on a 24-yard touchdown. The throw that gave JCSU the lead for good.

“We believe in our young men,” Flowers said. “There’s no panic because we know someone’s going to make a play.”

That sequence — the mistake, the response, and the faith in defense — captured what Flowers calls the Brick x Brick standard: building trust through adversity, one play at a time.

Defense Closes the Door

JCSU’s defense, led by Vincent Hill’s seven tackles and Quentin Williams’ two sacks, slammed the door on Livingstone’s final drives. The Bulls held the Blue Bears scoreless in the fourth quarter, showcasing the depth of a unit that has overcome injuries all season.

“We’ve been learning lessons all along the way,” Flowers said. “Today, it all showed — our core values, our toughness, and our belief that we’re never out of it.”

From East Meck to HBCU History

For Flowers, the win wasn’t just another box checked — it was a homecoming story years in the making.

“When I first moved to Charlotte, we lived right down the street from the Bojangles (near JCSU campus),” he said. “I went to East Meck, then to Johnson C. Smith. I never knew I’d end up back here leading this program, but I always knew we could build something special.”

With Saturday’s win, that vision looks more real than ever.

Brick x Brick: The Era of Belief

JCSU’s run under Flowers has been chronicled for the past three years in HBCU Gameday’s “Brick x Brick” docuseries, which has followed the Golden Bulls from a two-win program to the CIAA championship game.. The series hangs its cap on moments like this — emotional, human, and defining for what HBCU football means today: legacy, culture, and community built from the inside out.

And now, that journey continues.

Next up: a shot at the CIAA Championship — and possibly a Division II playoff berth, both firsts in program history. “You don’t lose — you learn,” Flowers said. “And what we’ve built here, brick by brick, is something that’s ready for the biggest stage.”

Watch the Journey

Catch up on the journey in Charlotte, NC, on Brick x Brick with JCSU Football. Now streaming on the HBCU Gameday YouTube Channel and HBCUGameday.com.

The post JCSU Football Heads to CIAA Championship With Historic Win appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The Golden Bulls went into Fayetteville and snapped a run of big game near-misses against the six-time CIAA finalist. They seized control late with the kind of poise that’s been missing in years past.

“They could have easily folded when we went down 14–10,” Flowers said in his weekly presser. “But they kept their composure. The weight room, our conditioning, our attention to detail… It all showed up.”

From Resilience to a Rivalry Rematch

Now, the Golden Bulls have flipped the page to the Commemorative Classic — a historic rivalry matchup with Livingstone College that’s suddenly loaded with postseason implications. Win, and JCSU punches its ticket to the CIAA Championship Game — and potentially, the NCAA Division II Playoffs. Lose, and the story takes an unfortunately familiar turn.

A year ago, JCSU entered the same game 8–1 before falling flat in Salisbury. Flowers hasn’t forgotten that heartbreak.

“We’re 8–1 again, but this 8–1 feels totally different,” he said. “Last year we were limping emotionally. This team learned from that, and it shows.”

Flowers didn’t stop there. He listed six things on the line this week — from a rivalry trophy and a championship berth to an undefeated home record, Division II Playoff birth, and a historic nine-win season.

“There’s a lot to play for,” he said. “We have 31 seniors — day-one guys — who built this program from the ground up. Guys who came here when the field was grass.”

The ‘Not Done Yet’ Mindset

That belief has been anchored by a three-word mantra that has defined JCSU’s 2025 season: Not Done Yet.

The phrase came from Red Ventures CEO and Golden Bulls supporter Ric Elias, who spoke to the team before its first practice of the season. His message hit home.

“‘Not Done Yet’ came from Ric Elias,” Flowers explained. “He told the team why we aren’t done yet — and it fit us perfectly. The players say it now. They believe it.”

That belief has shown up in close games, locker room moments, and clutch drives. It was there in Fayetteville, where Flowers said the staff took a ten-second runoff “because 1:20 was too much time to score.”

Brick x Brick, Captured on Film

Fans following this rise know it’s all being chronicled in Brick x Brick with JCSU Football, HBCU Gameday’s original docuseries — aptly dubbed the “Hard Knocks” of HBCU football. The series gives fans an inside look at Flowers’ leadership, the Golden Bulls’ culture shift, and the emotional journey behind each high-stakes moment.

The Stakes Couldn’t Be Higher

Saturday’s Commemorative Classic at Irwin Belk Complex isn’t just another rivalry game. It’s a test of everything JCSU has built — belief, discipline, and leadership. A win would bring a title shot, a playoff berth, and a program-record ninth victory.

Flowers’ message has remained the same: this team isn’t finished. “We’re not done yet.”

The post JCSU Football Eyes History in Commemorative Classic appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

After surrendering a go-ahead touchdown in the final minutes, the Golden Bulls responded with a 75-yard drive capped by a bruising touchdown run from redshirt freshman Bobby T. Smith, sealing a statement win on the road in a hostile Luther “Nick” Geralds Stadium in Fayetteville, NC. The victory marked JCSU’s first over Fayetteville State since 2021 and snapped a three-game skid against one of the CIAA’s most battle-tested programs.

“It wasn’t about getting the monkey off our back,” head coach Maurice Flowers said after the game. “It was about being proud… proud of our young men, proud of how they refused to lay down.”

Grinding It Out

This was vintage CIAA football: physical, patient, and full of emotional swings.

JCSU controlled the pace with a 38:22 to 21:37 edge in time of possession and outgained Fayetteville State 324 to 236 in total yardage.

Smith anchored the ground game with 31 carries for 113 yards and a touchdown, punishing defenders on every snap. Quarterback Kelvin Durham completed 20 of 27 passes for 182 yards and added a rushing score in the first half.

“K.D. is a dude,” Flowers said postgame. “He competes like nobody I’ve ever seen before. When things got tight, he told me, ‘Coach, let’s go.’ And there was no panic.”

The JCSU defense set the tone early, pitching three scoreless quarters before Fayetteville State found the end zone late. Vincent Hill led all tacklers with 10 stops, while Jaxson Hickson recorded a sack and Tynan Tucker added a tackle for loss.

Kicker Lukasz Smolen delivered five crucial points, connecting on a 32-yard field goal and both PATs.

A Culture Built Brick x Brick

In his fourth season at the helm, Flowers has shaped JCSU football into a program defined by belief, depth, and internal growth.

“We didn’t play well at Virginia Union, but that loss taught us,” Flowers said. “This group listens, learns, and grows. What you saw tonight was them taking those lessons and applying them when it mattered.”

That mindset has been chronicled across HBCU Gameday’s docuseries Brick x Brick with JCSU Football. Season 3 has captured the evolution of the Bulls’ culture — a mix of accountability, faith, and the “Not Done Yet” mantra that runs through every locker room speech and practice scene.

It’s a phrase born from heartbreak: last year’s season-ending loss to Livingstone kept JCSU out of the CIAA championship game and Division II Playoffs. One year later, the Bulls find themselves in the same position — with the same opponent standing in their way.

Next Up: The Commemorative Classic and a Shot at Redemption

With the win, JCSU (7–1 overall) controls its postseason fate. Beat Livingstone next week in the historic Commemorative Classic — the oldest rivalry in Black college football — and the Bulls clinch a spot in the CIAA championship game. Lose, and history threatens to repeat itself.

“We’re going to enjoy this one,” Flowers said. “But we know what’s next. We look forward to the Commemorative Classic. We’re not done yet.”

The redemption storyline playing out on the field is the same one driving Brick x Brick, the ‘Hard Knocks’ of HBCU football — a season-long portrait of perseverance and purpose in Charlotte’s rising HBCU football program.

The post JCSU Football “Not Done Yet” After Emotional Win in Fayetteville appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The episode captures the Golden Bulls’ lone loss of the 2025 season — a storm-soaked road test at defending CIAA champion Virginia Union — and serves as the emotional midpoint of a season that’s been equal parts breakthrough and battle. Brick x Brick with JCSU Football takes viewers inside a locker room that has learned to respond to setbacks with focus and fire.

“Brick x Brick with JCSU Football | SzN III | Weather the Storm” Premieres Tuesday, October 29 at 7 p.m. ET on HBCU Gameday YouTube Streaming after on HBCUGameday.com and the HBCU Gameday App

Weathering More Than Rain

The episode documents a weekend that had all the makings of a turning point — both literally and symbolically. JCSU arrived in Richmond with momentum, confidence, and a growing national reputation. But as kickoff approached, lightning cracked over Barco-Stevens Hall, forcing a 90-minute delay that tested the team’s patience and poise.

When play finally resumed, the Bulls traded blows with the back-to-back CIAA champions before falling 28–10— their only loss of the 2025 season thus far. For Head Coach Maurice Flowers, the game became less about the scoreboard and more about how his team would respond afterward.

That lesson — how to weather the storm — has defined everything since.

From Setback to Setup

Since the loss, JCSU has rebounded with urgency and maturity, ripping off wins and rising back into the national Division II conversation. After Saturday’s rivalry win over Winston-Salem State, Flowers described how much his team has grown since those early challenges.

“We’re in a single elimination tournament,” Flowers said. “One day at a time, one game at a time. If we play well, we have an opportunity to win. These guys know how to practice, they know how to prepare — and now we’re reaping those benefits.”

He also emphasized how experience has changed this group.

“We’re more experienced now than we were last year,” he said. “These guys care and love for each other, and I’m proud that they can see their hard work paying off.”

The Fayetteville Factor

Next up: a road trip to Fayetteville State — the program’s modern-day antagonist.

Throughout three seasons of Brick x Brick, the Broncos have played the villain in JCSU’s climb. In 2023, they edged the Bulls in a close contest that crushed CIAA title hopes. In 2024, Fayetteville State handed JCSU its first loss in Charlotte, a 27–0 shutout that snapped an eight-game win streak and derailed a playoff push.

This week, the story circles back — not on a Hollywood soundstage, but in the raw, unscripted reality that defines HBCU Hard Knocks.

“We’re 0–3 against Fayetteville State,” Flowers said. “We know our work is cut out for us, but we wouldn’t want it any other way. Johnson C. Smith football has always taken the road less traveled.”

Reality Over Script

If this were fiction, Hollywood couldn’t have scripted it better: the protagonist returning to face its toughest rival, with everything — a CIAA Championship berth and DII playoff spot — hanging in the balance. But this is Brick x Brick — a story grounded in sweat, setbacks, and the reality of HBCU football.

The question now: is JCSU’s rise simply about becoming a winning team, or are the Golden Bulls ready to become champions?

For Flowers, the answer comes down to consistency and culture.

“When you’re relevant, it changes everything,” he said. “Winning looks a certain way. There’s certain expectations that come with it — how you act, how you prepare, how you perform. These young men want it.”

Midseason Momentum Meets Destiny

Episode Four marks both a cinematic midpoint and a thematic crossroads. As production ramps up for the season’s final stretch, the Bulls’ reality on the field mirrors the narrative arc on screen.

The weather in Richmond may have tested their endurance — but the storm brewing in Fayetteville will test their destiny.

The post New Brick x Brick Premieres as JCSU Preps for Legacy Moment appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The former Carolina Panthers linebacker, future NFL Hall of Famer, and one of the most respected defensive minds in football made a surprise appearance before JCSU’s 52–27 win over Winston-Salem State. He arrived alongside Red Ventures CEO Ric Elias, a long-time JCSU football supporter who’s appeared on Brick x Brick last season talking to players about leadership and legacy.

Kuechly didn’t need to say a word. His presence alone said everything.

An NFL Legend Joins the Moment

As the team circled up for its pregame prayer, Kuechly stood quietly in the back. He stayed through Coach Maurice Flowers’ fiery pregame speech, nodding along as the Bulls’ leader reminded his squad of the team’s 2025 mantra, “not done yet.”

The Golden Bulls poured out of the locker room, charged with something extra — the combination of faith, fire, and the undeniable energy of having an NFL great in the building.

“When our team hit that ‘LUUUKE,’ you just felt it,” Flowers said after the game. “It felt good to see our young men earn respect from the football world.”

Cameras Rolling, Energy Building

The Brick x Brick camera followed Kuechly as he exchanged quick fist bumps and handshakes with players heading out for kickoff. Later, cameras caught him watching from the end zone, soaking in every snap, nodding his head to the bands, and even taking a selfie with fans on the sideline.

It was the kind of crossover moment that defines Brick x Brick — where HBCU culture meets pro-level respect, and Charlotte’s football heartbeat syncs between Sundays and Saturdays.

Defense Delivers in Front of a Defensive Icon

The moment didn’t end in the weight room. Early in the game, the JCSU defense made two red-zone stops — both right in front of where Kuechly stood. It was poetic. The best linebacker of his generation watched the Golden Bulls bring his kind of energy: disciplined, physical, and relentless.

“Luke Kuechly is a football guy,” Flowers said postgame. “He always wants to be around the game. Watching him see our guys compete — that felt good.”

Those defensive stands weren’t just big plays; they were statements. They reflected the very culture Brick x Brick has been documenting for three seasons — one built on work, confidence, and pride in HBCU football’s competitive fire.

HBCU Football Thriving in a Big City

Charlotte is a pro sports town, but moments like this show what happens when HBCU football thrives in major cities. When a program like JCSU builds real momentum, it doesn’t just win games — it shifts energy. It draws in CEOs, alumni, and even NFL legends.

Last season, the Golden Bulls’ 8–0 start turned the program into a national story, even attracting attention from ESPN’s College GameDay, which highlighted the HBCU program on the rise.

Now, after beating Winston-Salem State, JCSU sits at 7–1, heading into a matchup that will determine both its CIAA championship hopes and Division II playoff future.

That kind of relevance doesn’t just happen by accident — it’s the result of a cultural transformation led by Coach Flowers and his staff. Under his leadership, the Golden Bulls have built a foundation of accountability and swagger that’s elevated the program and energized the city.

When a program starts winning with purpose, the ripple effect spreads fast. Fans show up, alumni return, and even NFL greats like Luke Kuechly take notice.

That’s what Brick x Brick has captured since day one: the power of community and the pull of culture.

“It says a lot about our young men,” Flowers said. “When NFL players and leaders from our city want to come be part of it, that means something.”

Kuechly’s appearance proved it. He wasn’t just showing up — he was tapping in. And the result was a locker room, a city, and a program moving in rhythm.

Brick x Brick Keeps Building

For Brick x Brick, the cameras caught more than a celebrity cameo — they caught a connection. A Charlotte legend standing shoulder-to-shoulder with HBCU athletes. A community rallying behind a program that’s rewriting what HBCU football looks like in a pro sports city.

As the Golden Bulls push toward a possible CIAA championship game and Division II playoff appearance, they’ll carry that energy with them: Luke Kuechly in the locker room, the prayer circle, Coach Flowers’ pregame speech, and a team charging down the hill at Irwin Belk Complex like they run the whole city — because they do.

When an NFL legend shows up to an HBCU locker room and feels right at home, it says something bigger than football. It says HBCU culture is rising — and the whole city is watching.

? Watch Luke Kuechly’s surprise appearance in Season 3 of “Brick x Brick with JCSU Football,” on HBCU Gameday YouTube and the HBCU Gameday App.

The post NFL Legend Pulls Up to HBCU as Brick x Brick Cameras Roll appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

That’s how Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU) head coach Maurice Flowers opened his postgame remarks — not with celebration, but with focus. After Saturday’s 52–27 win over Winston-Salem State University (WSSU), Flowers made it clear that his Golden Bulls are treating every game left in their HBCU football schedule like the postseason.

“We’re in a single-elimination tournament,” Flowers said. “One day at a time, one game at a time. If we play well, we have an opportunity to win.”

The message matched the performance. JCSU looked every bit like a playoff-caliber team — fast, balanced, and confident. The Golden Bulls dismantled the Rams behind 526 yards of total offense, including 351 passing yards from quarterback Kelvin Durham and two 100-yard efforts on the ground and through the air.

Durham and Proctor Light Up the Scoreboard

Durham was sharp from the first drive. He completed 22 of 30 passes for 351 yards and three touchdowns without a single interception. He also added 74 rushing yards and two more scores, giving him five total touchdowns.

“Starting fast is big for us,” Durham said. “When we start fast, it always leads to big wins.”

And that’s exactly what happened. The Golden Bulls scored touchdowns on each of their first four possessions, jumping to a 28–6 lead and never looking back.

His favorite targets — DeAndre “Biggie” Proctor and Brian Lane — were nearly unstoppable. Proctor hauled in nine catches for 136 yards and two touchdowns, while Lane matched him with nine receptions for 127 yards and a score.

Flowers praised both receivers and highlighted their recent HBCU Legacy Bowl selections, saying they represent “what this program is building.”

“Bring Your Own Juice” — Inside the Energy Culture

The Brick x Brick cameras have shown it all season — the music at practice, the competition periods, and the laughter between reps. According to Flowers, that energy isn’t accidental. It’s a core part of the team’s identity.

“We say ‘bring your own juice,’ wherever we play,” he explained. “We start and end practice with competition periods — good versus good. If you don’t have energy, you can’t play at a high level.”

That attitude translated to Saturday’s win. The Golden Bulls played loose, but they played hard. Even in the locker room, the energy was infectious. Former NFL star Luke Kuechly dropped by after the game, and the team erupted.

“When our team hit that ‘LUUUKE,’ you just felt it,” Flowers said. “It felt good to see our young men earn respect from the football world.”

Defense, Depth, and Determination

While the offense stole headlines, the defense quietly did its job. Flowers defended his unit proudly when asked about the late scores.

“I’m not worried about our defense one bit,” he said. “They got a late one on our threes. There’s no chinks in the armor.”

Led by Latrae Bass (8 tackles, 2 TFLs) and Steny Joseph (6 tackles, 2 TFLs), the defense dominated for three quarters before rotating backups. The balance between both sides of the ball showed why JCSU has emerged as one of the most complete HBCU programs in Division II.

With the win, Johnson C. Smith improved to 7–1, keeping their playoff hopes alive while maintaining momentum for the stretch run.

The Road to Fayetteville

Next up is Fayetteville State, the matchup Flowers has pointed to all year.

“There’s no such thing as one rival,” he said. “But Fayetteville — that’s the hurdle. We’re 0–3 against them. We know what’s ahead, and we wouldn’t want it any other way.”

The game could decide the CIAA playoff race. For JCSU, it’s another test — one that will measure just how far this program has come. As Flowers put it, the road won’t be easy, but that’s part of the journey.

“Nothing’s going to be given to us,” he said. “So what better way to take the next step than to go someplace that’s a rough road?”

The Golden Bulls know the challenge, but they also know who they are. They’ve already proven they can respond to adversity — and now they’ll need to do it again.

“Brick x Brick” — The Story Behind the Season

HBCU Gameday’s original docuseries Brick x Brick continues to give fans an inside look at JCSU’s rise. From training camp battles to locker-room celebrations, it captures the culture that drives this team.
And after this latest win, that story feels more real than ever.

? Watch the latest episodes of “Brick x Brick with JCSU Football” — now streaming on HBCU Gameday YouTube and the HBCU Gameday App.

The post JCSU Puts 50 on WSSU, Sets up Huge Matchup in Fayetteville appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

“Every game has been a big ball game for us,” Flowers said to open his weekly press conference. “That’s what we’ve said since the beginning of the season, and it holds true right now.”

For JCSU, Saturday’s home date against Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) isn’t just another test — it’s a rivalry game wrapped in history, pride, and championship implications. The CIAA South may no longer exist by name, but the emotions between these two HBCU football programs remain alive and intense.

The Rivalry Returns to Charlotte

Flowers didn’t mince words about the stakes.

“Winston-Salem State wants to beat Johnson C. Smith,” he said. “This is a rivalry game. We’ve beaten them two years in a row for the first time since ’75-’76, and we know they’re coming hungry.”

The added twist? WSSU head coach Robert Massey — a close friend of Flowers — personally called to ask for tickets. “Normally we don’t talk during game week,” Flowers joked. “But I’m going to oblige.”

After several road trips through Virginia and last week at Shaw, the Golden Bulls are thrilled to return home. “Whenever you play Winston-Salem State here, it feels like a homecoming crowd,” Flowers said. “We’re excited to be home — there’s a lot at stake.”

Defense Leading the Charge

JCSU continues to build its identity around defense.

“It starts with their quarterback,” Flowers said of WSSU’s attack. “He’s legit — big, strong, fast, strong arm. We’ve got our work cut out for us.”

That work begins up front. Last week, JCSU’s defensive line set a school record with nine sacks, led by standouts Cadricus Stanley and CIAA Defensive Lineman of the Week Kevin Haynes, Jr.. The return of safety Tynan Tucker — now fully healthy after missing much of the year — has changed the tone of the secondary.

“You want to generate a pass rush without having to send pressure,” Flowers said. “Our defense is ready to go.”

From 8-0 to Now: Lessons in the Stretch

The Golden Bulls understand how quickly fortunes can shift. They sat 8-0 at this point last season before finishing 8-2 — a lesson Flowers continues to emphasize.

“We know these last three will be the toughest ones,” he said. “Experience is what we’re leaning on. We’ve been there, done that — now it’s about what we’ve learned.”

A Youth Movement Paying Off

While Flowers entered 2025 expecting seniors to lead the charge, it’s been a youth movement powering JCSU down the stretch.

“When freshmen come in, don’t ask about being redshirted,” he said. “Everything about our program is about competing every single day.”

He highlighted several young names shaping the future of HBCU football, including:

• RB Bobby Smith (R-Fr.) — emerging as a steady backfield presence.
• WR Reggie Daniel (R-Fr., #0) and WR Brian Lane (#5) — two dynamic targets.
• C Marcus Andrews (Fr., Atlanta, GA) — “a monster,” as Flowers called him.

Flowers added, “When you start freshmen at those positions, you’re not just happy for right now. You’re happy for the future of the program.”

Kelvin Durham: The Calm in the Chaos

If there’s a heartbeat to the Golden Bull offense, it’s quarterback Kelvin Durham. Once a freshman under Flowers at Fort Valley State, Durham now ranks among Division II’s most efficient passers.

“He knows the system and he knows me,” Flowers smiled. “When I recruited him, he was a boy. Now he’s definitely a young man.”

Durham’s numbers — 165 QB rating, 17 touchdowns, five interceptions, and over 250 yards per game — back that up. Yet Flowers says his leadership defines him more than the stats.

“I really don’t speak to the offense much anymore — he does it all,” Flowers said. “He holds everyone accountable. He competes every day, and it’s contagious.”

Because of that example, the offense practices harder and plays looser, a reflection of its veteran quarterback’s demeanor.

Chemistry Clicking at the Right Time

Injuries early in the season — from the offensive line to the secondary — slowed JCSU’s rhythm. However, the recent bye week and 52-0 win against Shaw may have flipped the switch.

“The bye week was right on time,” Flowers said. “We’re finally seeing a team that’s starting to get good chemistry.”

Now, healthy and focused, JCSU enters the WSSU matchup with confidence, experience, and unity — a combination that could define their championship and postseason fates.

Brick x Brick

Fans can also follow the journey behind the scenes. Production for the HBCU Gameday Originals docuseries Brick x Brick with JCSU Football resumes this week as the Golden Bulls prepare to host Winston-Salem State. The cameras will travel with the team throughout the remainder of the season, capturing every locker-room speech, rivalry emotion, and championship moment.

The post HBCU Football: JCSU and WSSU to Clash in Heated CIAA Rivalry appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The Golden Bulls walked into Week 1 calling it a “measuring stick game.” They walked out with a 28–16 victory over the No. 11-ranked Valdosta State Blazers — a powerhouse program fresh off a Division II national championship appearance.

Inside the walls of Irwin Belk Complex, Brick x Brick offers the rawest kind of HBCU football cinema: locker room prayers, sideline energy, and the emotional spine of a team that no longer plays for validation — because, as Strength Coach Kevon Fly says, “We been that.”

“We Been That”: Respect, Fire, and the Moment Before Kickoff

This episode opens not with the typical pregame hype, but with tension. A Valdosta State player strolls through JCSU’s warmup zone — an unspoken line crossed in football culture.

The cameras catch Coach Fly stepping forward, rallying his team in the huddle.

“Don’t let nobody come into your house and disrespect you,” he growls. “They don’t think you can ball with them… That’s cool, though. We gon’ show them exactly who we are. We been that.”

That moment sets the emotional pulse for the episode. No filters. No re-takes. Just a team playing with pride, presence, and purpose.

Coach Flowers’ Philosophy: Win the Physical Battle

Head Coach Maurice Flowers brings the team together in the weight room — a sacred space in the JCSU program — and lays it out plain.

“We win ball games right here. This is where we become physical. Be the most physical team on the field today — and we win. Period.”

The scene juxtaposes calm and chaos: the quiet of a team prayer against the rumble of pads and cleats minutes later.

It’s here that the Brick x Brick style shines — showing football not as a spectacle, but as a discipline. When Kelvin Durham and the offense piece together a 19-play, 85-yard drive before halftime, you can see that philosophy manifest before your eyes.

The Drive That Changed Everything

Down 10-0 late in the first half, Kelvin Durham orchestrates the drive that flips the script — a sequence that eats nearly nine minutes of clock and resets the tone.

As Coach Flowers says during the halftime address:

“What they got we gave to ‘em. We missed blocks, missed reads. But now, you know it ain’t nothing (over there) we haven’t seen before. Tighten up and play our brand of football.”

In the second half, that brand — physical, patient, relentless — takes over.

The Turning Point: Belief Becomes Culture

By the fourth quarter, JCSU had out-hit and outlasted the Blazers. A late touchdown from Durham to freshman Reggie Daniel seals the deal, sending the crowd into chaos and the Golden Bulls into the national Top 25 rankings.

After the final whistle, the Golden Bulls were ecstatic — but not in disbelief. Coach Fly’s pregame mantra echoes back full circle as cameras catch him reminding anyone in earshot that, “we been that.”

“We’re happy,” Flowers tells his team during his post-game speech. “But we’re not surprised. We know we’re a Top 25 ball club. Down 10-0 and didn’t flinch.”

A Cinematic Look Inside the HBCU Football Grind

Episode 3 is quintessential Brick x Brick: a field-level portrait of HBCU football that rejects polish for truth. Viewers see everything — the targeting penalty, the language of raw emotion, and the determination of players who’ve carried years of rebuilding on their backs.

From the weight room to the prayer circle, the episode delivers what fans have come to expect from HBCU Gameday’s signature docuseries — it is genuinely the ‘Hard Knocks’ of HBCU football.

Next Up: The Virginia Road Trip Arc

With the Valdosta win in the books, Brick x Brick shifts gears for the next chapter of Season 3. Post-production is underway on episodes chronicling the Golden Bulls’ road battles against Virginia Union and Virginia State — programs that played one another in the 2024 CIAA championship game and sit atop the CIAA football hierarchy.

Filming on new episodes resumes the week of the Winston-Salem State rivalry game, where JCSU’s playoff hopes and CIAA title chase will take center stage.

Because as the team’s mantra says — and as every frame of this series proves — JCSU football is “not done yet.”

Watch the Episode

Brick x Brick with JCSU Football: “Dawg Check” premieres live on HBCU Gameday’s YouTube channel on October 15 at 8 p.m. ET.

The full episode will be available to stream anytime on HBCUGameday.com and the HBCU Gameday app.

The post HBCU Hard Knocks Adds Cinematic Lens to Historic Win appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Virginia Union Still Sets the Standard

Virginia Union University remains the highest-ranked HBCU in Division II football, holding firm at No. 17 in both the AFCA Coaches Poll and the D2Football.com media rankings. Their only loss came in Week Two — a 41–38 heartbreaker at Edward Waters — but since then, the Panthers have been rolling through the CIAA with renewed purpose.

Running back Curtis Allen continues to drive the offense, while quarterback RJ Rosales has kept the Panthers balanced and dangerous. The Panthers’ defense remains one of the CIAA’s most consistent units, helping them rebound from their early loss to Edward Waters.

As long as Union keeps winning, they remain the benchmark for HBCU football excellence in Division II — and a reminder that the CIAA still sets the tone for consistency.

Benedict College Joins the AFCA Top 25 — and Brings the Heat

After weeks of flying under the radar, Benedict College has officially entered the AFCA Top 25 at No. 24, emerging as the only undefeated team in all of HBCU football. Under second-year head coach Ron Dickerson Jr., the Tigers are 6–0 overall and 5–0 in the SIAC, backed by one of the stingiest defenses in Division II.

Their latest win — a 14–7 grinder over Fort Valley State — was classic Benedict football: fast start, bruising defense, and fourth-quarter control. “All we had to do was calm down and play our brand of football,” Dickerson said after the game. “We’re disciplined, physical, and focused. That’s who we are.”

Even without the flash, Benedict’s efficiency is elite. All-American returner Jaxon Williams remains a threat to score every time he touches the ball, and linebacker Israel Nwokocha continues to anchor a defense that wins in the trenches.

The Tigers now head to Jacksonville for a pivotal matchup against Edward Waters, the same team that handed Virginia Union its only loss. A win there could further solidify Benedict as the new face of SIAC dominance.

Edward Waters Fights to Stay in the Picture

Edward Waters’ momentum took a hit after a 42–14 loss at Kentucky State, knocking them out of the “receiving votes” category in the AFCA poll. Still, the Tigers (4–2) have a golden opportunity to reassert themselves this weekend against nationally ranked Benedict.

That early-season victory over Virginia Union remains one of the biggest HBCU upsets of the year — a moment that put EWU on the national radar. If they can rebound against Benedict, the Tigers could re-enter the Top 25 conversation.

JCSU Back in the Mix

After falling to Virginia Union in Richmond a few weeks ago, Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU) has battled its way back into national relevance. The Golden Bulls returned to the D2Football.com Top 25 this week at No. 24 following back-to-back wins, including a statement victory over Virginia State, which was previously ranked in September.

Head coach Maurice Flowers has the Bulls trending upward again, led by a defense that’s rediscovered its rhythm and an offense that’s starting to click behind a veteran quarterback, a deep receiving corps, and young talent in the backfield. With their bye week behind them, JCSU sits in a perfect position for a late-season push.

Albany State Creeping Toward the Rankings

Meanwhile, Albany State — the SIAC’s preseason favorite — is making its own noise. The Golden Rams received two votes in the AFCA poll this week after a strong start that includes a close loss to FCS powerhouse Florida A&M. At 5–1, they’re quietly building steam and have a massive opportunity ahead: a road showdown at Benedict that could define the rest of the SIAC season.

A Testament to DII HBCU Football’s Depth

The presence of Virginia Union, Benedict, and Johnson C. Smith in national polls and Albany State and Edward Waters pushing for recognition underscores one undeniable truth: the quality of football at HBCU programs in Division II is strong.

Both the CIAA and SIAC have produced teams capable of competing nationally, with elite coaching, next-level defenses, and fan bases that bring unmatched energy every weekend.

As Benedict looks to stay perfect, Virginia Union keeps chasing more history, and JCSU continues to prove its mettle, the DII HBCU race is no longer a sidebar — it’s the main story in college football’s most competitive division.

Where the Rankings Stand

Here’s how the national picture looks as of Week 6. The latest D2Football.com and AFCA Division II polls showcase just how far HBCU programs have come — with Virginia Union, Johnson C. Smith, and Benedict all carrying the banner for Black college football on the national stage. The CIAA and SIAC aren’t just fighting for conference titles anymore — they’re shaping the entire Division II playoff landscape.

D2Football.com Top 25 (Poll – Week 7)

AFCA Division II Top 25 (Coaches Poll – Week 7)

Dropped Out: California (Pa.) (16), Frostburg State (21)
Others Receiving Votes: Emory & Henry 36; California (Pa.) 27; Southern Arkansas 26; Henderson St. 25; Frostburg St. 21; Indiana (Pa.) 15; Nebraska-Kearney 13; Charleston 9; Chadron St. 7; Albany State 2; Assumption 1; Michigan Tech 1.

The post HBCU Football Power Race Playing Out in Top 25 appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The decision comes just halfway through his first season with the Golden Bulls — and serves as a stark illustration of the precarious reality of college football, where dreams can be upended in an instant.

“I’ve dreaded writing this for so long… For so many years, football has been the centerpiece of my life,” Alvarez wrote on Instagram. “It came with so many lessons, tears, trials & tribulations, but one thing it’s always left me with is the friendships I’ve made along the way & the ability to persevere in the face of adversity. After another Achilles injury, I’ve decided to medically retire from the game.”

Thyago Alvarez was expected to anchor the interior of a revamped offensive front for head coach Maurice Flowers, and he did just that for the first half of the season. Now, his story stands as a reality check in Brick x Brick. The HBCU Hard Knocks–style docuseries that has chronicled the journey of JCSU football over the past three years.

A Journey Built on Resilience

Before arriving at JCSU, Alvarez’s path was anything but linear. Raised in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, he described himself as “very underrecruited” coming out of high school. He initially walked on at California University of Pennsylvania, taking out loans to keep playing the game he loved.

“My love for the game was larger than the opportunities that I was getting,” Alvarez said in his Brick x Brick interview. “I had some academic money, but I was taking out loans just so I could play football.”

He later transferred to an HBCU, Lincoln University (Pa.) of the CIAA, just 45 minutes from his hometown — a move that allowed his mother to see him play more often. There, Alvarez flourished: he became a two-year captain, started 18 games, and earned his degree from the nation’s first degree-granting HBCU. But his ambitions extended beyond conference honors.

“I wanted to make an impact, make history, and be on the right side,” he explained. “I wanted to win football games, win meaningful games, and potentially make a run for the national championship.”

When Thyago Alvarez entered the transfer portal again, Johnson C. Smith stood out immediately. Alvarez recalled how the Golden Bulls staff didn’t just evaluate his tape. They already knew who he was from game prep and believed in him. That trust sealed his decision.

“Smith believed in me,” he said. “They knew the type of player that I was and that I could impact this program the way I wanted to.”

Football as Identity

Throughout Brick x Brick, Alvarez’s commitment to the craft shines through. He spoke about the relentless rhythm of life in the CIAA. The “Sunday to Sunday” grind of early mornings, late nights, film sessions, and recovery work. He embodied the urgency of a transfer trying to make a name while elevating his team.

“There’s nothing guaranteed about Saturdays,” he said. “Except for having an opportunity to play. So you really got to put your head down, put your nose to it, and be intentional about the way that you do things.”

But his passion for football was forged through pain as well as persistence. Alvarez detailed previous injuries, including a fractured spine and a torn Achilles tendon, that nearly ended his career before.

“I’ve had a lot of minor setbacks where I almost gave up on football a few times,” he admitted. “From fracturing my spine to tearing my Achilles… it’ll be a blessing and nothing but the Lord’s work.”

Those setbacks never dimmed his focus. Alvarez credited his mother — a first-generation immigrant from the Dominican Republic — as his source of resilience. Her sacrifices motivated him to keep pushing through adversity.

“Somebody at home is depending on you,” Alvarez said, quoting one of his coaches. “I can’t just give up because things got hard. I got to think about my mom and what my mom did.”

A Sudden Turn

For JCSU, Thyago Alvarez’s medical retirement is a significant emotional loss. Beyond his physical presence on the offensive line, he had quickly emerged as a respected veteran voice in the locker room. His energy during camp — which he called “the hardest camp I’ve ever experienced” — set a tone for the Golden Bulls’ ambitious 2025 campaign.

His departure underscores the fragile reality of college football careers, particularly at the Division II and HBCU levels, where resources and margins are thinner. A single injury can end years of preparation.

The announcement closes one chapter for Thyago Alvarez, but doesn’t diminish his impact. His story — captured on camera through Brick x Brick — will remain a vivid reminder of the human stakes behind every snap.

Brickx Brick SzN III

Episode 1 — “Countdown to Kickoff” (Training Camp)

The Bulls grind through their most demanding camp under Flowers as newcomers learn to follow before they lead. Transfer QB Kelvin “KD” Durham finds his rhythm while DC Barry Tripp tightens the defense around problem-solving and details. The program standard expands beyond scheme: “Championship at everything… even the water bottles go back in the crate.”

Episode 2 — “A Boston Classic” (Essence Kickoff Classic)

A late-summer stage at Harvard Stadium turns into a statement in Week Zero. Durham’s command steadies the offense; the defense dictates the first half; halftime corrections slam the door. Flowers’ message is blunt and businesslike: “We’re the attraction of this show.”

The post HBCU Hard Knocks Star Announces Medical Retirement appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Durham’s Command Steadies Golden Bulls

JCSU quarterback Kelvin Durham was sharp all afternoon. He completed 18 of 29 passes for 251 yards and four touchdowns, distributing the ball efficiently across his receiving corps.

He connected with three different receivers for scores:

• Reginald Daniel: 3 receptions, 59 yards, 2 TDs
• Brian Lane: 4 receptions, 48 yards, 1 TD
• Isaiah Perry: 1 reception, 41 yards, 1 TD

On the ground, Bobby Smith paced the Golden Bulls with 96 yards on 24 carries. His steady running helped JCSU sustain drives and control the clock.

JCSU struck early, building a 10–0 first-quarter lead behind a balanced attack. Virginia State answered with two touchdowns in the second quarter, but the Golden Bulls reclaimed momentum before halftime.

Third Quarter Breakthrough

Coming out of halftime tied 17–14, JCSU delivered its most decisive stretch of football. Durham led two scoring drives in the third quarter, and the defense tightened to blank Virginia State.

By the end of the third, JCSU had outscored VSU 14–0 and built a commanding 31–14 lead. That surge set the stage for a controlled fourth quarter.

VSU Defense Fights, JCSU Holds

Virginia State’s defense kept the game competitive despite the deficit. Cameron Davis led the Trojans with 13 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, and a forced fumble, while Donavan Howard added 11 stops.

However, JCSU’s offense controlled the clock for 32:55, converted key third downs, and avoided major mistakes down the stretch — exactly the formula needed to win on the road.

Matthews, Pretlow Keep VSU in the Fight

Virginia State quarterback Rahsaan Matthews Jr. kept the Trojans within striking distance for much of the afternoon. He threw for 259 yards and two touchdowns on 16 of 30 passing, while also rushing for 86 yards and a score.

His top target, Jaylen Pretlow, delivered a standout performance with eight receptions for 99 yards and two TDs. Despite their efforts, VSU’s offense went scoreless in the third quarter, and that drought ultimately proved decisive.

Coach Flowers: “Be the Thermostat”

After the win, head coach Maurice Flowers praised his team’s preparation and focus.

“It feels great to beat Virginia State on their home turf,” Flowers said. “Coach Henry Frazier is a winner, so we knew this was going to be a tough ballgame. Our theme was, let’s be the thermostat. Let’s set the tempo, set the stage. And we did that.”

He added:

“The CIAA is tough, and to go on the road and win against a well-coached team with a crowd behind them says a lot about our young men. To be 5–1, 2–1 in conference going into the bye week — we think we’re in a good spot.”

Brick x Brick Cameras Were Rolling

The Golden Bulls’ victory wasn’t just meaningful in the standings. It’s also part of the ongoing story of Brick x Brick with JCSU Football, a “Hard Knocks” style HBCU Football docuseries produced by HBCU Gameday.

HBCU Gameday’s cameras captured exclusive behind-the-scenes access during the big road win. The new season has already taken fans inside training camp and the team’s historic trip to Harvard Stadium in Boston.

Watch Brick x Brick with JCSU Football on HBCUGameday.com, the HBCU Gameday App, and the HBCU Gameday YouTube channel.

What’s Next

JCSU enters the bye week healthier and with momentum. The Golden Bulls will return to action with a road trip to Shaw for the Bears’ homecoming.

Brickx Brick SzN III

Episode 1 — “Countdown to Kickoff” (Training Camp)

The Bulls grind through their most demanding camp under Flowers as newcomers learn to follow before they lead. Transfer QB Kelvin “KD” Durham finds his rhythm while DC Barry Tripp tightens the defense around problem-solving and details. The program standard expands beyond scheme: “Championship at everything… even the water bottles go back in the crate.”

Episode 2 — “A Boston Classic” (Essence Kickoff Classic)

A late-summer stage at Harvard Stadium turns into a statement in Week Zero. Durham’s command steadies the offense; the defense dictates the first half; halftime corrections slam the door. Flowers’ message is blunt and businesslike: “We’re the attraction of this show.”

The post JCSU Football Stays in CIAA Race with Big Road Win appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Created and directed by Wali Pitt, “Brick x Brick” is a hard-charging, behind-the-scenes chronicle of Johnson C. Smith University’s (JCSU) rise under head coach Maurice Flowers — an HBCU parallel to the NFL’s “Hard Knocks” with wired sound, locker room access, and field-level verité.

What began almost by accident in 2022 — when a hurricane canceled Pitt’s flight, rescheduled a JCSU football game, and led to Flowers’ first win — became a 2023 spring-ball short and is now a multi-episode franchise entering its third season.

Across the same span, JCSU has surged from two wins (2022) to seven (2023) to an eight-game school-tying win streak (2024) — with “Brick x Brick” embedded in the huddle for every inflection point.

The series’ field-level verité style has not only made it a must-watch for HBCU fans but has also earned national exposure: footage from the show has been featured on ESPN’s College GameDay and aired nationally as part of the “HBCU Gameday on Fox Soul” show in 2024, bringing the Golden Bulls’ rise to living rooms across the country.

Season 3 opens on the program’s most ambitious footing yet: a veteran roster, a high-efficiency transfer at QB, and a Week Zero stage at the Essence HBCU Kickoff Classic inside Harvard Stadium — “America’s Coliseum” — the first HBCU game in the Boston area in more than 50 years.

Episode 1 — “Countdown to Kickoff” (Training Camp)

The Bulls grind through their most demanding camp under Flowers as newcomers learn to follow before they lead. Transfer QB Kelvin “KD” Durham finds his rhythm while DC Barry Tripp tightens the defense around problem-solving and details. The program standard expands beyond scheme: “Championship at everything… even the water bottles go back in the crate.”

Episode 2 — “A Boston Classic” (Essence Kickoff Classic)

A late-summer stage at Harvard Stadium turns into a statement in Week Zero. Durham’s command steadies the offense; the defense dictates the first half; halftime corrections slam the door. Flowers’ message is blunt and businesslike: “We’re the attraction of this show.”

Premiere Details

When: Thursday, Oct. 2 at 8 p.m. ET (back-to-back premiere)
Where: YouTube premiere; streaming on HBCUGameday.com and the HBCU Gameday app
Credits: Produced by Wali Pitt; starring Maurice Flowers, Kevon Fly, Barry Tripp, Kelvin Durham, Thiago Alvarez, Quavaris Crouch, and the JCSU Golden Bulls

The post Brick x Brick with JCSU Football Season 3 Sets Premiere Date appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

“Adversity is life. It’s full of bumps and detours — but you have to deal with them,” Flowers said, setting the tone for homecoming week at JCSU.

Adversity as a Teacher

The Golden Bulls went on a historic 8–0 roll before crashing in the final weeks of the season. This year, Flowers insists his squad has to prove it has grown from those scars.

“I love our team. I love the leadership of our team. Last year we started off 8–0, hit some adversity, and did not handle it well. This is a great opportunity to show how much we’ve grown,” he reflected.

JCSU never looked comfortable against Virginia Union. A lightning delay pushed the kickoff back 90 minutes, and Flowers admitted he didn’t manage it properly.

“I don’t think I handled my team well through that, and they outplayed us in big moments,” he admitted. “They showed championship caliber, championship mettle — what we don’t have yet. That’s a great teacher for us.”

HBCU Gameday cameras also captured that loss during the production of Brick x Brick with JCSU Football. Season 3 of the HBCU Gameday docuseries will continue to showcase the program’s emotional highs and difficult lows, adding another layer of accountability and storytelling around Flowers’ vision.

Homecoming Focus

If adversity is the lesson, then homecoming is the exam. JCSU returns to Charlotte to face Bluefield State, and while the matchup might look favorable on paper, Flowers isn’t buying into that narrative.

Jason Brown of Spectrum News put the question to him directly: “You look at your stats and Bluefield State’s stats, it’s hard not to ask if this is a get-right game.”

Flowers didn’t hesitate in his response. “I look at it as a league (CIAA) game, I look at it as homecoming — and we don’t overlook anyone,” he said.

The distractions are real for a coach who once suited up in Golden Bull Gold and Blue.

“I’m an alumnus of Johnson C. Smith. My phone is ringing off the hook with teammates wanting tickets,” Flowers said. “As we tell our young men, your homecoming starts after the game on Saturday.”

Defining Golden Bulls Football

What does “Golden Bulls football” even mean? Flowers had a clear answer: execution in every phase.

“Special teams — we missed assignments, were out of lanes on kick coverage. On defense — too many rushing yards, and we didn’t cause turnovers. On offense — good play, bad play, penalty. That’s not Golden Bulls football,” he said.

For Flowers, the formula is unforgiving but straightforward: “Golden Bulls football is good play after good play after good play — in all three phases.”

Reclaiming the Edge

The CIAA is unforgiving, and Flowers knows his team has to flip the switch quickly.

“Whether it’s the hunter or the hunted, you’ve got to take care of business. We didn’t take care of business on Saturday,” he said.

But the focus isn’t on Virginia Union anymore. It’s on Saturday, it’s on execution, and it’s on proving that the Golden Bulls can play with clean discipline and energy.

“This focus, it’s on us. We’re looking to play a very clean game, a very physical game, and a very fast game on Saturday,” Flowers promised.

The Big Picture

For JCSU, this homecoming is bigger than parades, parties, or alumni gatherings. In HBCU football, where history, culture, and competition collide every weekend, homecoming is always a measuring stick.

The Golden Bulls have already tasted both sides of the coin — a program-defining win at Valdosta State and a humbling loss at Virginia Union. Flowers wants his players to embrace the lesson and write a different story this time around.

Because for JCSU, this isn’t just about bouncing back. It’s about proving that adversity doesn’t define them — how they respond will.

The post JCSU Eyes Homecoming Bounce Back After VA Union Defeat appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Virginia Union Rises to the Top Among HBCU Programs

Fresh off their ranked clash against Johnson C. Smith, Virginia Union has emerged as the top-ranked HBCU program in both the D2Football.com and AFCA Division II polls. The Panthers’ 28-10 victory over JCSU not only cemented their place in the Top 25 but also pushed them up to No. 21 in both the D2Football.com and the AFCA poll.

Union has leaned heavily on running back Curtis Allen, who has piled up 460 rushing yards and eight touchdowns through three games. Quarterback RJ Rosales has added 427 yards and three scores through the air, while receivers Keon Davis (161 yards, 1 TD) and Ricky Key Jr. (97 yards) have stretched the field. Defensively, the Panthers are giving up just 18 points per game with 20.5 tackles for loss and 8.5 sacks.

But the Panthers’ résumé comes with an asterisk: their only blemish is a 41-38 road loss to Edward Waters, an SIAC program that stunned VUU in Jacksonville. The Tigers’ win is the only defeat for Union this season, proving that the road to national respect in Division II HBCU football is starting to run through more than one conference.

JCSU Falls, but Not Forgotten

The loss to Union cost Johnson C. Smith its place in the polls. After the Richmond matchup, the Golden Bulls dropped out of both Top 25s. Still, they picked up 13 votes in the AFCA poll, showing that despite their slide, pollsters believe in their talent and potential.

They’ll look to bounce back at Homecoming this week against Bluefield State as another crucial road game looms at Virginia State on Oct. 5, giving JCSU another chance to re-enter the national conversation.

Virginia State Enters the Picture

If Union is steady and JCSU is regrouping, then Virginia State is surging. The Trojans cracked No. 23 in the D2Football.com poll this week after edging Winston-Salem State by a single point.

In the AFCA poll, VSU remains outside the Top 25, but they’re clearly on the radar, especially given their upcoming tests: a road trip to Fayetteville State followed by a high-stakes home date with JCSU.

Edward Waters: SIAC Spoiler with National Impact

Edward Waters may not play in the CIAA, but their impact can’t be ignored. The Tigers’ dramatic victory over Virginia Union in the Unity Classic was more than just a program milestone — it reshaped the program’s identity within the Division II HBCU landscape. Their 3-0 start included that game-winning field goal, making EWU the only team to defeat Union this fall.

While they’re not in the Top 25, Edward Waters earned a vote in this week’s AFCA poll, showing that national observers are taking notice of the SIAC upstart.

A CIAA Race with National Stakes

Just a week ago, the conversation centered on two nationally ranked HBCUs colliding when Union and JCSU met in Richmond. Now, the picture has widened: Virginia State is in the mix, JCSU is fighting to regain traction, and Edward Waters has emerged from the SIAC.

The CIAA title race is always tense. But as the D2Football.com and AFCA polls show, it’s now a national storyline.

The post Battle for DII HBCU Supremecy Playing Out in Top 25 Polls appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

After a 90-minute weather delay, Senior running back Curtis Allen put the Panthers on his back, rushing for 108 yards and four touchdowns to earn Offensive Player of the Game honors. It was a performance that underscored the difference between a program that has been there before and one still learning how to finish in the CIAA spotlight.

“This was a statement win for our program against a very good JCSU team,” said VUU head coach Dr. Alvin Parker. “Beyond the final score, it was a showcase for HBCU football culture, with two top-25 HBCU teams battling at a high level. The home crowd brought tremendous energy, and our players really fed off that atmosphere.”

Championship Poise vs. Hungry Challenger

JCSU entered Richmond undefeated and eager to prove it belonged among the CIAA elite under head coach Maurice Flowers. The Golden Bulls pushed back early, tying the game at 7-7 on a short touchdown run by Kelvin Durham. Then, adding a late first-half field goal, they trailed just 14-10 at the break.

But where Union showed calm and execution, JCSU stumbled. The Panthers came out of halftime with a physical edge, riding Allen for two more scores while shutting out the Golden Bulls over the final 30 minutes. The second half looked less like a duel of equals and more like a reminder: contenders chase moments, champions seize them.

Numbers That Told the Story

• Virginia Union (2-1, 1-0 CIAA): 200 rushing yards, 336 total yards of offense. QB RJ Rosales hit two deep connections, including a 55-yarder to Ricky Key Jr.
• Johnson C. Smith (3-1, 0-1 CIAA): 298 yards of offense. Durham threw for 193 yards but absorbed four sacks and couldn’t find the end zone through the air. WR Brevin Caldwell hauled in 8 passes for 94 yards.

Defensively, JCSU’s Vincent Hill had nine tackles, but Union’s front disrupted consistently, controlling the line of scrimmage when it mattered most.

Building vs. Arriving

For JCSU, the night was another chapter in a story that HBCU Gameday cameras continue to capture in the HBCU Hard Knocks docuseries Brick x Brick with JCSU Football. Season three, currently filming, follows the Bulls’ rise but also their setbacks.

The first season of Brick x Brick closed with the disappointment of the Florida Beach Bowl. Season two ended with back-to-back losses that cost them a shot at the CIAA title and Division II playoffs. Saturday’s loss to Union fit that narrative: painful, but part of the growth required to build a championship program.

Union, meanwhile, showed what a finished product looks like. Allen’s efficiency, Parker’s composure, and a defense that stiffened when challenged gave the Panthers a victory that felt as much about experience as talent.

The Road Ahead

Virginia Union remains the CIAA’s measuring stick — and a team with national ambitions beyond the conference. JCSU, though stung, stays in the mix as one of Division II’s most intriguing stories. The Golden Bulls may not be there yet, but their championship is far from over, and every stumble adds to a docuseries — and a program — built on lessons in adversity.

The post VA Union Flexes Championship Mettle in Top 25 HBCU Showdown appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Poll Heat: Bulls Rising, Panthers Sliding

The latest AFCA Coaches Poll has Johnson C. Smith climbing to #21 after a 3-0 start, while Virginia Union tumbled to #22 after last week’s gut-punch loss. On the D2Football.com Top 25, Union sits higher at #15, but JCSU has crept in at #23—a clear sign that the Golden Bulls are officially on the national radar.

Translation: JCSU is trending up. VUU is trying to shake off a tough loss. And both need this win to stay in the national conversation.

Johnson C. Smith: Survive and Advance

JCSU isn’t winning pretty—but they’re winning. Saturday’s 21–17 escape at Elizabeth City State was a perfect example. Quarterback Kelvin Durham is quietly one of the most efficient arms in Division II, hitting nearly 70% of his throws and already racking up five touchdowns. The backfield duo of Bobby Smith and Antonio Crim has powered a ground game that averages almost 80 yards per contest.

And when it matters most? The Golden Bulls deliver. Their defense—allowing just 14 points per game—locked down ECSU late to keep the unbeaten run alive.

Virginia Union: Reeling but Dangerous

Virginia Union’s loss in the Unity Classic still stings. Upstart Edward Waters snatched a 41–38 win with a walk-off field goal, and suddenly, the Panthers look mortal. But don’t get it twisted—this is still a Top 25 team with one of the CIAA’s most loaded rosters.

Curtis Allen is a monster running back, leading the league at 176 yards per game. Quarterback RJ Rosales has shown big-play potential with three early touchdown passes. And the offense as a whole? They’re hanging 41.5 points per game, tops in the CIAA.

The question isn’t if Union can score—it’s whether they can close.

Why This Game Hits Different

Last season, JCSU shocked Union in Charlotte. The upset became one of the most emotional episodes of Season 2 of HBCU Gameday’s Brick x Brick with JCSU Football docuseries. Season 3 cameras will roll again as these ranked rivals line it up under the lights in Richmond, VA.

It’s more than a matchup—it’s a Division II HBCU measuring stick. A win keeps you climbing in the polls and sets the tone for a possible playoff run. A loss? And suddenly you’re chasing the rest of the pack.

The Bottom Line

This is HBCU football at its best: ranked teams, passionate fanbases, and stakes that reach far beyond the conference conversation. JCSU wants to prove its rise isn’t a fluke. VUU wants to remind everyone that despite a close loss, they’re still the back-to-back CIAA champs and playoff game winners.

When these two step on the field, expect fireworks—and expect the polls to look very different come Monday.

The post HBCU Teams Both Nationally Ranked Ahead of Huge Matchup appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Flowers Saw It Coming

In his weekly presser, Maurice Flowers admitted, “In the spring, we had this game circled as a game that some would call a trap game. We’re going to be coming off of a game against Morehouse that was in Boston. Where a lot of hoopla surrounded that game in the first Essence Classic on national television. And then you come home for the Eddie McGirt Classic, your home opener. So to get those two big games and now you have to go to Elizabeth City. That’s going to be a challenge for us also.”

He added that ECSU’s home opener posed danger despite their early-season struggles: “They lost last week against Hampton. But it’s a game that they were leading at halftime 20 to 10 and ended up losing 27-20. So they’re going to have plenty of confidence and it’s their home opener. We know we’re going into a hostile environment and we’re going to have to have our A-game, but we cannot have a letdown.”

Game Flow

Johnson C. Smith struck first as running back Bobby Smith powered in from nine yards out to give the Golden Bulls an early lead.

The highlight of the first half came in the second quarter when Antonio Crim broke free for a 56-yard touchdown run, helping JCSU take a 14-10 advantage into the locker room.

Elizabeth City State responded in the third quarter. Traquan Johnson capped a determined drive with a short rushing score, giving the Vikings a 17-14 lead and sending their home crowd into a frenzy.

But the Golden Bulls had the last word. Early in the fourth, quarterback Kelvin Durham connected with Reginald Daniel for a 62-yard strike, flipping the game back in JCSU’s favor. The defense handled the rest, shutting ECSU down over the final 15 minutes.

By the Numbers

• Kelvin Durham (JCSU): 18-of-24, 199 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT
• Bobby Smith (JCSU): 16 carries, 65 yards, 1 TD
• Antonio Crim (JCSU): 4 carries, 54 yards, 1 TD; 3 catches, 68 yards
• Reginald Daniel (JCSU): 1 catch, 62 yards, 1 TD
• Traquan Johnson (ECSU): 17 carries, 54 yards, 1 TD
• Christopher Perkins (ECSU): 15-of-31, 109 yards

JCSU outgained ECSU 358 to 208 in total offense, with the defense forcing critical stops down the stretch.

A Gritty Road Win

For Maurice Flowers, the performance matched his preseason message about maturity. “We’re really going to lean on our maturity and our experience as a ballclub to not have a letdown,” he said midweek. The Golden Bulls did just that, overcoming mistakes and big plays to grind out a win on the road. Their only game on natural grass all season.

The victory pushes JCSU to 3-0 and keeps them in the conversation as one of the most dangerous programs in HBCU football. For Flowers and the Golden Bulls, this was exactly the kind of trap they were determined not to fall into — and they passed the test.

Looking Ahead

The stakes only get higher. On Sept. 20, JCSU will travel to Richmond to face Virginia Union, the only other ranked HBCU program in Division II. The Panthers and Golden Bulls will square off in a matchup with early-season CIAA title implications.

HBCU Gameday will be on the road in Richmond filming Season 3 of the Brick x Brick docuseries, which will continue to capture JCSU’s journey as one of the hottest stories in Black college football.

The post JCSU Football Escapes Trap Game, Sets Up Ranked HBCU Clash appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

A Historic Win, But a New Test Ahead

Flowers didn’t downplay what the Valdosta State victory meant for an HBCU program that hadn’t felt this kind of national buzz in decades before starting 2024 with an eight win winning streak. Fast forward to 2025, and the national hype train has pulled into the Queen City after only two weeks.

“One of the bigger wins in JCSU football history,” Flowers said. “It should help us with confidence, with recruiting, and everything else that goes along with it.”

But the coach was quick to steer the conversation toward Saturday’s matchup. He’s been around long enough to know the dangers of a “trap game.”

“We had this game circled since the spring,” Flowers explained. “Some would call it a trap game… You come home from the Essence Classic, then the McGirt Classic, and now you have to go to Elizabeth City.”

Maturity Over Hype

Flowers referenced the 2024 season as a cautionary tale. JCSU rocketed to an 8-0 start before stumbling down the stretch.

“We don’t lose, we learn,” Flowers said. “Last year, apparently, we didn’t handle the hype well. But this year, we learned even more in a win. We beat Valdosta State, but we also learned about ourselves and how we go about our business.”

That business is about maturity, and the coach has made it clear he expects his team to avoid any hangover from last week’s celebration.

“I was very pleased to see how we rebounded in practice,” he added. “There were no signs of Valdosta State hangover. It was one of our best practices of the year.”

Next Man Up

The Golden Bulls’ depth was tested in the win. Instead of folding, JCSU leaned into its “next man up” philosophy.

“We just beat the No. 11 team in the country without All-American receiver Brevin Caldwell,” Flowers said. “That’s our philosophy — you compete every day. Freshmen don’t get told to redshirt, they get told to compete.”

Young receivers Reggie Daniels and Brian Lane stepped in, while the defensive line rotated in waves to wear down a massive Valdosta front.

Conditioning Edge

If there’s a single theme Flowers hammered home, it was conditioning. The Golden Bulls dominated time of possession against Valdosta State and looked fresher late in the game.

“Our philosophy is get stronger as the game goes on,” Flowers said. “It’s a boxing philosophy — take you out to the deep and see how you can swim.”

That approach showed in the fourth quarter, where the JCSU defense smothered Valdosta’s traditionally high-powered attack.

Eyes on Elizabeth City

Now, the Bulls march into a hostile ECSU environment, where Flowers expects nothing less than a dogfight.

“They were leading Hampton 20-10 at halftime last week,” he warned. “It’s their home opener, and we know we’re going to need our A-game.”

For Flowers, the message is simple: the Golden Bulls can’t afford a letdown now.

For fans, though, the story isn’t just happening on the field. The Golden Bulls’ season is being documented in real time through Brick x Brick with JCSU Football, the behind-the-scenes docuseries produced by HBCU Gameday.

Marketed as the “HBCU Hard Knocks,” the show has captured the highs, lows, and raw emotion of the program’s historic turnaround for the past three years. The landmark win over Valdosta can also be added to the moments in Brick x Brick, as the HBCU Gameday cameras were rolling during the Valdosta State upset. Anticipation is already building for season three of Brick x Brick. While a season premiere date has yet to be released, this season will continue to show the world how JCSU is rewriting its football legacy… Brick by Brick.

The post JCSU Football Looks to Avoid Trap Game After Historic Win appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Golden Bulls Make Their Case

When the dust settled in Charlotte, JCSU’s 28-16 win over Valdosta wasn’t just a one-off upset. It was a complete performance. Quarterback Kelvin Durham led the way, completing 16 of 24 passes for 207 yards and a touchdown while adding two rushing touchdowns. His dual-threat ability kept the Blazers’ defense off balance, and his calm control of the offense gave JCSU an identity it has long sought.

Running back Bobby Smith chipped in 98 yards on 19 carries, including a 58-yard burst that flipped field position. Wideout Deandre Proctor hauled in six catches for 94 yards, consistently moving the chains.

Defense Bends, Never Breaks

The JCSU defense was equally impressive. Facing a Valdosta offense known for quick strikes, the Golden Bulls forced long drives and capitalized on mistakes. They held the Blazers to just 2-of-12 on third down and dominated time of possession, controlling the ball for over 40 minutes.

Linebacker Cadricus Stanley set the tone with a sack and tackle for loss, while veteran defender Quavaris Crouch added another stop behind the line. Clinton Riley’s forced fumble sealed the effort from a unit that frustrated Valdosta all night.

Poll Shakeup

The ripple effects were immediate. JCSU entered the D2Football.com poll at No. 23, while Valdosta dropped from No. 14 all the way out. Over in the AFCA poll, the Golden Bulls didn’t quite make the cut but earned 83 votes, the highest total of any unranked team. Valdosta, meanwhile, plummeted from No. 11 to No. 22, a testament to how much weight the loss carried.

It’s a rare scenario where one game shifted the perception of both programs. For JCSU, the respect is long overdue; for Valdosta, the stumble was costly but not fatal.

JCSU is not the only HBCU program making national noise in Division II. Virginia Union, a fellow CIAA contender, is ranked No. 15 in the D2Football.com poll and No. 19 in the AFCA Top 25 and continues to build its national profile after a historic playoff run in 2024.

Brick x Brick Connection

The Golden Bulls’ rise is tracked in real time through HBCU Gameday’s Brick x Brick docuseries. Last season, an episode titled “Refuse to Lose” captured JCSU’s emotional win over Virginia Union in Charlotte. That matchup looms again this year—on September 20 in Richmond—and with both teams now ranked, season 3 of the series will follow what could be one of the CIAA’s biggest games of 2025.

What It Means for HBCU Football

For HBCU football, JCSU’s rise to the Top 25 represents another breakthrough moment in 2025. After years of fighting for respect outside the CIAA, the Golden Bulls now prove they belong in the national DII spotlight. Their mix of explosive offense, disciplined defense, and fearless scheduling sends a message that HBCU programs can—and will—punch above their weight.

Head coach Maurice Flowers has long said he wanted to change the narrative around JCSU football. That vision is becoming reality with Kelvin Durham leading the offense and the defense flexing its might under defensive Coordinator Barry Tripp.

The post JCSU Football Enters Top 25 After Valdosta Win appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Head coach Maurice Flowers called it a “team win” that validated everything his program has been building toward.

“Big win, big win at home for the Golden Bulls… one of the bigger wins at JCSU has to be, but it was an earned win. I’m so proud of our young men,” Flowers said. “When you say a team win, this was a team win. Defense stepped up, offense made plays when they had to, and special teams showed our resilience.”

Durham Leads the Charge

Quarterback Kelvin Durham, a transfer and the all-time leading passer at Fort Valley State, powered the Golden Bulls’ upset with two rushing touchdowns and one passing score. While official stats were not immediately available postgame, Durham’s playmaking stood out against a national power.

After missing an early touchdown, Durham regrouped and delivered when it mattered.

“He looked me in the eye and said, ‘I got it, coach, I’ll get it back,’” Flowers recalled. “That’s who he is — a competitor. He competes every day, and it’s contagious.”

Durham credited his coaches and teammates for keeping him locked in after a slow start.

“I didn’t start the game how I wanted, but my coaches and teammates kept me encouraged. They had my back,” Durham said. “There’s a reason we had this game. It was time to show the world how talented we are.”

Overcoming Adversity

JCSU pulled off the win without several key players, including All-American wide receiver Brevin Caldwell, first-team All-CIAA defensive end Lamon Hill, and running back Kamarro Edmunds, who left the game with a lower leg injury.. Linebacker Quavaris Crouch was also ejected early for targeting. Still, Flowers emphasized that JCSU’s depth carried the day.

“We don’t bat an eye when a guy goes down, because it’s an opportunity,” Flowers said. “This is the most talented roster we’ve had since we’ve been here.”

The defense leaned on standout transfer Rontay Dunbar, who has quickly emerged as a lockdown corner.

“We played against him for two years, and he locked down our side of the field,” Flowers said. “When he hit the portal, we jumped in. We’re not surprised by how he’s performing.”

Brick x Brick Exclusive

Saturday’s upset will also live beyond the box score. The Brick x Brick with JCSU football cameras were rolling, capturing every moment of the Golden Bulls’ breakthrough victory. Produced by HBCU Gameday, Brick x Brick with JCSU Football is an all-access docuseries that dives into the grind, culture, and resilience behind the program rebuild at Charlotte, NC’s premier HBCU.

This win over Valdosta State will be featured in the new season currently in production, giving fans an inside look at how JCSU rose to the challenge against a national power.

Bigger Than the CIAA

The victory was more than just another early-season win — it was a measuring stick for where JCSU football is headed.

“Valdosta State’s won national championships. They’re coming off a national championship game appearance. This win in 2025 is bigger than the win we had against Virginia Union in 2024,” Flowers said. “To even think you can win in the playoffs, you need to beat teams that have been in the playoffs.”

Durham agreed, noting that this was the highest-ranked team he’s faced.

“It was time to show the world how talented we are,” he said.

What’s Next

The HBCU will now face the challenge of avoiding a letdown as it turns its focus to Elizabeth City State. Flowers made it clear that staying sharp is just as important as celebrating history.

“We’re gonna celebrate this one, but we know Elizabeth City is next. That’s where you can have a letdown game. We’ve talked about it all summer — we have to stay focused.”

The win over Valdosta State will resonate in the CIAA and across the Division II landscape, signaling that JCSU is ready to step onto the national stage.

The post JCSU Football Knocks Off Ranked DII Power Program appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

“It really was a great experience for our program to travel to Boston and be a part of the first Essence Classic,” JCSU head coach Maurice Flowers said. “So much history at Harvard University and then no HBCU game in that area for more than 50 years.”

An Atmosphere Like Homecoming

For Flowers and JCSU, the atmosphere at the HBCU Kickoff Classic was unlike anything they’d expected. Fans filtered through the gates in waves, filling the stands with color, sound, and spirit.

“The atmosphere was homecoming-like in some ways,” Flowers explained. “You had to walk through all the vendors to get to the locker room, which could be a distraction. I’m so proud of our team because we leaned on our experience.”

He said one of his favorite parts was watching the stadium gradually come alive. “It was something to watch the stands just continue to fill up,” Flowers said. “By the time we kicked off, the place felt like a true HBCU homecoming.”

The Morehouse band’s booming sound helped set the tone. Fans arrived early and stayed loud, their energy transforming Harvard Yard into something rarely seen in New England — an HBCU game day celebration.

America’s Own Colosseum

Built in 1903, Harvard Stadium is more than just concrete and turf. It was the first large structure in the United States built entirely of reinforced concrete, a groundbreaking innovation at the time. Its horseshoe-shaped design, sweeping arches, and colonnade were modeled after classical Greek and Roman amphitheaters, especially the Roman Colosseum.

“It really felt like gladiators,” Flowers said. “You come underneath the stadium and then out into the field. Just very, very different. And you just know it’s history.”

That classical influence earned the stadium its nickname: America’s Colosseum. On this day, it served as the stage where American history and HBCU culture collided.

Passing It On to the Next Generation

The Essence Classic didn’t just connect past and present — it also lit the spark for the future. On the bottom rows, local youth football players leaned over the concrete walls, waving at Golden Bulls players, asking for gloves, towels, and wristbands. During big plays, they shouted encouragement and celebrated with the sideline as if they were part of the team.

“I couldn’t get on my guys too much because there were so many kids engaging during the game,” Flowers admitted with a smile. “But it was just a great environment. It really helped fuel the whole game.”

Those small exchanges — a wristband tossed to a child, a smile after a touchdown — created lifelong memories for kids in a city far removed from HBCU campuses. In that way, the Essence Classic became more than just a game. It became a living classroom, showing Boston’s next generation the passion and culture of HBCU football.

Culture Meets History

For one afternoon, Harvard’s famed stadium transformed into something uniquely American — a crossroads of history and culture. On one side stood the concrete legacy of Ivy League tradition; on the other, the unmatched energy of HBCU bands, fans, and football. Together, they created a scene few had ever experienced in New England.

As the HBCU Kickoff Classic crowd roared and the game unfolded, Flowers saw it for what it was: a stage not just for his team, but for HBCU culture itself.

“There were so many firsts with this game,” he said. “The build-up had a big-game feel, and I’m just glad we were able to answer the bell.”

And for those who want to relive it, HBCU Gameday was there with cameras rolling — the Essence Classic will be featured in an upcoming episode of Brick x Brick docuseries, bringing the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of America’s Colosseum to life.

The Essence Classic at Harvard was more than a season opener. It was proof of how HBCU football can take root even in places without an HBCU campus, bridging history and culture to create a uniquely American spectacle.

The post Essence Classic Brings HBCU Culture to an American Landmark appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Adding another layer, the program’s rise is chronicled in HBCU Gameday’s Brick x Brick docuseries. Cameras followed the Golden Bulls in Boston, and they will roll again this weekend as JCSU hosts Valdosta State.

A Historic Start in Boston

“It really was a great experience for our program to travel to Boston and be a part of the first Essence Classic. So much history at Harvard University and then no HBCU game in that area for more than 50 years.”

The Golden Bulls made the most of the opportunity. They secured a season-opening win and carried themselves with poise in what Flowers described as a “homecoming-like atmosphere.” Vendors lined the player entrance, fans filled the stands, and Pop Warner kids crowded the sideline.

“I’m so proud of our team because we leaned on our experience. If you were a young team, that atmosphere could have really caused you to not perform the way you normally would like to.”

Rituals, “Big Dogs,” and Team Culture

Flowers shared insight into one of JCSU’s defining rituals: “The Big Dogs are in the house.” The chant celebrates the offensive and defensive linemen, the foundation of the team’s success.

“When those linemen come out, that’s when we really know it’s time to get ready to go. Our team gets behind it because they know it’s really about them.”

He also credited his team mantras to him time coaching Texas high school football. Those traditions, he said, remain part of JCSU’s culture of discipline and belief.

Kelvin Durham’s Big Day

Quarterback Kelvin Durham led the way against Morehouse. He completed 15 of 19 passes for 270 yards and three touchdowns. On the ground, he added 25 rushing yards and another score on four carries, flashing his dual-threat ability.

“Everything we covered in practice, he took it straight to the game. He ran the show very well. He’s a leader, and I’m glad to see him get off to a good start.”

Durham’s favorite target was Brian Lane, who caught six passes for 163 yards, including a 72-yard touchdown strike.

The Valdosta State Test

Attention now shifts to a major test. JCSU hosts perennial DII powerhouse Valdosta State, a program Flowers called a “model in Division II.”

“Our goal is not to be a top team in HBCU, our goal is to be a top team in Division II football. We get a chance to measure ourselves against a team that went to the national championship.”

Securing the matchup wasn’t easy. Flowers revealed that “about eight teams” turned JCSU down before Valdosta State agreed to travel to Charlotte.

“We’re not going to run from anybody.”

Like Harvard, the Valdosta game will also be featured in Brick x Brick Season 3, giving fans a behind-the-scenes look at one of the biggest games in Golden Bulls history.

Respect, But No Fear

Flowers closed with a message that set the tone.

“We’re not looking to kiss their championship rings. We respect them, but we’re a hungry team. The only way to gain national respect is to beat a team that has national respect.”

Bottom Line

From Harvard’s historic backdrop to team mantras in the locker room, Flowers used his press conference to show how far his program has come. With Brick x Brick documenting the journey, fans get a rare inside view of a team climbing from HBCU contender to national force.

The post JCSU Football Eyes National Respect Against Valdosta appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Golden Bulls control from start to finish

From the opening quarter, JCSU imposed its will. The Golden Bulls raced out to a 13–0 lead in the first quarter, then doubled it before halftime. By the break, the game was firmly in hand, and JCSU kept pouring it on with 12 points in the third and another touchdown in the fourth to cap the 45-9 rout.

JCSU’s offense rolled up 512 yards of total offense while limiting Morehouse to 327. The Golden Bulls dominated on the ground with 209 rushing yards to Morehouse’s 53, and their defense forced four interceptions that stalled any chance of a Maroon Tiger comeback.

Stat standouts

Quarterback Kelvin Durham was sharp, completing 15 of 19 passes for 270 yards and three touchdowns. He spread the ball around, but his top target was Brian Lane, who hauled in six catches for 163 yards and a 72-yard score.

The running game kept Morehouse on its heels. Bobby Smith led the ground attack with 70 yards and a touchdown on 12 carries, while Avante George added 63 yards and a score. Kamarro Edmonds chipped in 36 yards and another touchdown, and Durham used his legs for a rushing TD as well.

Defensively, Elijah Wilson was a game-changer with two interceptions, while Quavaris Couch and Jalen Alexander each picked off passes of their own. The front seven kept steady pressure, highlighted by Quentin Williams’ sack and several timely tackles for loss.

A Boston crowd with HBCU energy

While official attendance numbers weren’t released, the stands told the story: Harvard Stadium was packed. The atmosphere felt more like Greensboro, Charlotte, or Atlanta than Cambridge. A big reason was New Edition, Boston’s own R&B legends, who purchased 3,000 tickets for fans in the historically Black neighborhood of Roxbury. That move helped transform the event into an authentic HBCU-like homecoming vibe, complete with energy, music, and pride that spilled beyond the field.

Culture meets competition

The Essence HBCU Classic marked the first HBCU football game hosted at Harvard Stadium in decades, a symbolic milestone in blending tradition with new audiences. Fans were treated not only to a showcase of SIAC football but also a celebration of HBCU culture.

Adding to the moment, HBCU Gameday was filming an episode of “Brick x Brick,” capturing the behind-the-scenes grind of Johnson C. Smith’s football rise. For a program that has clawed its way back into contention, the exposure matched the on-field results.

What’s next

JCSU’s win cements momentum early in the season and validates their growth under head coach Maurice Flowers. For Morehouse, it’s back to the drawing board after struggling to establish a consistent run game and protect the football.

But beyond the X’s and O’s, Saturday proved something bigger: that HBCU football and culture can thrive anywhere — even under the Ivy League lights of Harvard Stadium. With a packed crowd in Boston and a convincing win on the field, both JCSU and the Essence HBCU Kickoff Classic lived up to the hype.

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For President Valerie Kinloch and head coach Maurice Flowers, the matchup means more than just another game. It symbolizes validation of a program built on academic rigor and athletic ambition.

“Athletics at Johnson C. Smith University is significant. It is the front porch to the institution,” Kinloch said. “What you will see of our football program is nothing short of excellence. It is a new era of excellence at JCSU.”

A Program Reborn — and Documented

When Flowers returned to his alma mater three seasons ago, JCSU struggled through decades of mediocrity. The Golden Bulls averaged just 2.3 wins per year across 40 seasons. Since his arrival, however, the program has climbed: 2–7, 7–3 with a bowl appearance, and 8–2 with a national Top-25 ranking.

That rise hasn’t just been felt on the field — it has been documented. HBCU Gameday chronicled the turnaround in “Brick x Brick with JCSU Football,” produced by HBCU Gameday Head of Creative Wali Pitt. The docuseries will follow the Golden Bulls to Boston as Season 3 films the historic Harvard matchup.

“Our motto for this season is ‘Not Done Yet,’” Flowers said. “We ended last season 8–2, but we left things on the table. We’ve got more work to do.”

Scholar-Athletes First

Both Kinloch and Flowers stress that academics remain at the core of JCSU football. The team GPA now stands at 3.1, with a goal of reaching 3.5. Fifteen of the 22 seniors carry GPAs above 3.2.

“Football is really significant. Academics is really significant. Our football players understand that they are scholar-athletes, so there is no athletics without academics,” Kinloch said.

Flowers built his program on that same principle: “Day one, our goal was win the grades, improve — the wins will come. And that’s what’s happened.”

Talent on the Field

On the field, JCSU owns one of the most balanced rosters in the CIAA. The Golden Bulls led the league in passing last season, return a deep group of running backs, and added quarterback Kelvin Durham, a transfer Flowers previously coached at Fort Valley State.

“This is the most talented roster we’ve had since we’ve been at JCSU — on both sides of the ball,” Flowers said. He also praised the defense, which finished No. 1 in the CIAA in 2023 and still ranks among the deepest units in the league.

History at Harvard

The Harvard stage offers more than symbolism. It gives JCSU the chance to showcase itself on national television at one of the most recognizable academic institutions in the world.

“It’s history — the first HBCU game at Harvard Stadium, on national TV. We don’t take that lightly,” Flowers said.

Yet Flowers reminded everyone not to overlook the opponent. Morehouse enters Year 2 under head coach Terrance Mathis, and Flowers sees similarities. “We respect Morehouse. They’re fast, they’re strong, and they remind me of us two years ago. We’re not taking them lightly.”

Bigger Than Football

For Kinloch, the moment highlights the broader strength of HBCUs — academic, cultural, and athletic. “When people discount us, we’re here to say, don’t — we pave our own way,” she said.

For Flowers, the game represents the reward for years of building. “To now have sold-out games and be competing for championships, it does my heart proud. We’ve built a program — not just a team.”

On Saturday in Boston at the Essence Kickoff Classic, JCSU will have a chance to prove that the Golden Bulls aren’t just chasing history — they’re making it. And the journey will be preserved, ‘Brick x Brick’, for the world to see.

The post Not Done Yet: JCSU to Make HBCU Football History at Harvard appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

This new model is set to reach more than 62,000 North Carolina public high school seniors for the 2026–27 academic year, as announced by the UNC System and the Department of Public Instruction. Students will receive official admission letters either in the mail or via the CFNC portal. To accept the offer, they need only complete a brief form on NCCollegeConnect.org or CFNC.org.

Why It Matters

• Reduced Barriers to Access: NC College Connect removes traditional hurdles in the application process—like essays, testing, and fee payments—making college more accessible, especially for first-generation and underrepresented students.
• Enrollment Strategy for Institutions: This approach helps participating institutions, including HBCUs, broaden their applicant pool during a period of declining enrollment at many colleges.

About the Eight HBCUs

Here’s a quick snapshot of the HBCUs now part of NC College Connect:

1. Elizabeth City State University – A public HBCU in Elizabeth City participates in the program.
2. Fayetteville State University – Another public HBCU offering direct admission.
3. North Carolina Central University – A public HBCU in Durham included in the UNC System list.
4. Johnson C. Smith University – A private HBCU located in Charlotte; now accessible via the program.
5. Livingstone College – Private HBCU in Salisbury, included in NC College Connect.
6. Bennett College – A private women’s HBCU in Greensboro, part of the admissions group.
7. Saint Augustine’s University – A private HBCU in Raleigh included among participating institutions.
8. Shaw University – Private HBCU in Raleigh, also part of the program.
9. Winston-Salem State – A public HBCU, also a part of the program.

How Students Participate

• Eligibility: Seniors who finish junior year with a weighted GPA of at least 2.8 and meet specific course and safety requirements.
• Admission Offers: Students will receive tailored offers based on eligibility as early as this fall via mail and the CFNC portal.
• Acceptance Steps: Log in to CFNC or NCCollegeConnect.org, review eligible institutions, and complete a basic online form to accept.
• Next Steps: Upon acceptance, students receive guidance on enrollment and financial aid.

Broader Participation & Support

Beyond HBCUs, the initiative also covers:

• 11 UNC System universities (excluding highly selective ones like NC State, UNC-Chapel Hill, UNC-Wilmington, UNC-School of the Arts, and NC A&T State University)
• 29 independent colleges and universities
• All 58 North Carolina Community Colleges

Financial incentives are offered—for example, students enrolling at Elizabeth City State, Fayetteville State, UNC Pembroke, or Western Carolina University may pay just $500 per semester under the NC Promise plan.

The post NC HBCUs admitting students that don’t even apply appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Harris, one of the top free agent transfers in the portal, received offers from multiple FCS HBCUs. Schools like Jackson State, Alabama A&M, and Alabama State were all trying to land Harris before his commitment to JCSU and his ultimate return to Clark Atlanta. His decision reverses one of the more notable offseason commitments in Division II football.

A Record-Breaking Season

Harris made an immediate impact during his first year with the Panthers. In just one season, he set school records in receptions (75), receiving yards (1,004), and touchdowns (14), leading CAU to an SIAC Championship Game appearance in head coach Teddy Keaton’s first year. His breakout performance established him as one of the premier receivers in HBCU football and a major threat in the passing game.

JCSU’s Loss, CAU’s Gain

Johnson C. Smith had slated Harris to pair with Brevin Caldwell, one of the top wide receivers in HBCU football. Forming what could have been one of the most explosive duos in Division II. The Golden Bulls looked forward to adding Harris’ speed, size, and playmaking ability to their aerial attack, but his departure shifted those plans.

Even without Harris, JCSU’s wide receiver room remains stacked with talent. Led by Caldwell, the Golden Bulls’ receiving core has a supporting cast capable of making big plays. The Golden Bulls are still expected to field one of the CIAA’s most dangerous passing attacks in 2025. However, the loss of Harris does change the offensive outlook.

HBCU Football’s Transfer Movement

Harris’ return highlights the fluidity of the modern transfer market in HBCU football. As top players seek the right fit, high-profile moves like this are becoming more common—even after public commitments.

With the 2025 season fast approaching, Armone Harris is expected to step back into a featured role for the Panthers. This would give Clark Atlanta University one of the most dynamic receiving threats in Division II football and reshape the SIAC title picture.

The post Prized WR Transfer Returns to Atlanta HBCU appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

A Classic Reimagined

This year’s event is a bold elevation from last fall’s Morehouse vs. JCSU showdown. The game was featured in season two of HBCU Gameday’s Brick x Brick docuseries. That episode gave fans a gritty, behind-the-scenes look at two historic programs giving their all for an early-season win.

But in 2025, it’s getting bigger. Brick x Brick will return with a special episode dedicated to the Kickoff Classic. The episode hopes to go behind the scenes to show what happens when an HBCU game moves from the South to the Ivy League.

A City of Firsts—Now, a First for HBCUs

“The ESSENCE Kickoff Classic is more than a game—a cultural statement,” said Michele Ghee, Chief Content Officer of ESSENCE Ventures. “By bringing HBCU football to Boston for the first time. We’re not only honoring the rich legacy of our institutions. We’re creating space for Black excellence to thrive in new places.”

Boston, long seen as a hub for higher education and equity-driven innovation, is embracing its role as host city with open arms.

“We are proud to bring the spirit of HBCUs to Harvard Stadium and look forward to welcoming visitors from across the country,” said Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, highlighting the city’s commitment to inclusion and cultural celebration.

A New Kind of Tailgate

The Classic is more than 60 minutes of football—it’s an all-out weekend experience. Expect a citywide celebration packed with music, community activations, career fairs, step shows, and—of course—the unmatched energy of HBCU marching bands.

Event Co-Founder Derrick Brown summed it up best. “The Classic isn’t just a game — it’s a citywide celebration of culture, community, and Boston’s bold commitment to inclusivity.”

From the tailgate to the halftime show, this event is meant to fuse the legacy of HBCUs with Boston’s future-forward thinking, making it both a tribute and a trailblazer.

Powered by Essence, Backed by Boston

ESSENCE, the iconic platform dedicated to Black women and communities. Searheads an event supported by MeetBoston, the city’s tourism hub, and Campus Rise, a mission-driven platform helping underrepresented students thrive.

This partnership ensures that the Classic won’t just be seen—it will be felt.

Harvard Stadium has seen its share of historic football moments over the decades. But this will be the first time its end zones ring out with the sound of a drumline, the stomp of a step team, and the roar of fans proudly reppin’ their HBCUs.

The post Essence Brings HBCU Classic to Nation’s Oldest CFB Stadium appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Whether you’re a die-hard alum, a current student, or just here for the vibes, this is almost five hours of must-watch HBCU content.

From First Wins to Final Whistles

The series begins in 2022 with the first win under head coach Maurice Flowers. That game marked the start of a new chapter. The journey unfolds through every rep, rally, and setback, building to the final spring practice of 2025.

This isn’t your average highlight package. Brick x Brick dives deeper. It shows the early mornings, the long road trips, the heartbreak, and the hustle. It celebrates the coaches and student-athletes who are building more than just a football program — they’re building a legacy.

Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Tune In

With HBCU Media Days taking place across the country, now is the perfect time to revisit the whole story.

Each episode brings something new. From tense game weeks to quiet locker room moments, it tells the story of what it means to fight for greatness. It shows how HBCUs continue to shape elite athletes, powerful leaders, and unforgettable moments.

Culture, Legacy, and the Story Behind the Scoreboard

The energy is raw. The storytelling is real. And the culture is front and center.

Brick x Brick wth JCSU Football is more than a series. It’s a reminder of what makes HBCU football special. The Media Day Marathon gives fans a rare chance to see the entire journey in one sitting.

So grab your hoodie, fire up the group chat, and tune in—it’s as fire as ever.

The post Relive Historic JCSU Turnaround with Brick x Brick Marathon appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The June 12 decision comes after two years of monitoring by SACSCOC, which cited JCSU’s failure to demonstrate full compliance with standards of fiscal responsibility, financial controls, and oversight of externally sponsored research and funding. Though JCSU remains accredited, the agency’s warning signals the seriousness of the institution’s financial management challenges.

“We take seriously the decision by SACSCOC to place the university on probation for good cause,” the university said in a July 8 statement. “The designation reflects areas where we must strengthen financial compliance and controls. However, the ‘good cause’ designation also indicates the university has displayed evidence of improvements.”

Founded in 1867, Johnson C. Smith University is one of North Carolina’s oldest HBCUs, enrolling approximately 1,300 students during the 2024–25 academic year. It plays a vital role in Charlotte’s educational and economic fabric. Offering undergraduate and graduate programs that cater to a historically underserved student population.

An Opportunity Framed as Growth

President Valerie Kinloch, who has led the private North Carolina university through much of the current accreditation review process, acknowledged the probation but framed it as an opportunity for transformation.

“Over the last year and a half, we have worked hard to improve our overall operations,” Kinloch said. “In the weeks and months ahead, additional improvements will be made as we prepare for an on-campus SACSCOC Special Committee visit in 2026. Being placed on good cause provides us with an important opportunity to ensure continuous internal controls.”

University officials stressed that the accreditation probation stems not from academic deficiencies but financial management issues. These include compliance lapses in handling federal and state funds and oversight of sponsored research. SACSCOC has requested a third monitoring report, and a committee visit to the JCSU campus was conducted as part of the review process.

A Critical Window for Reform

Under SACSCOC policy, institutions under probation are given up to two years to demonstrate full compliance. However, the “good cause” designation allows for an extension. Provided the institution shows recent accomplishments, credible plans for addressing deficiencies within a year, and no indication of deeper structural issues.

“Currently, we have an all-hands-on-deck approach at the university,” JCSU said. “This allows us to not only identify the concerns in the SACSCOC communication but also to make significant strides internally and externally. We view this as an opportunity to further enhance our academic programs and administrative practices.”

The university emphasized that its academic offerings remain strong and will continue to provide accredited degrees throughout the probationary period. “Our academic programs are strong and thriving,” the university’s statement read. “Our students, faculty, staff, and alumni can expect an exciting year ahead as we make progress on this journey together.”

Broader HBCU Context

Johnson C. Smith’s probation highlights a broader challenge for HBCU institutions across the country. Many of these institutions operate with limited endowments and heavy reliance on federal aid. Fiscal pressures, rising operational costs, and regulatory scrutiny place increasing demands on HBCU institutions to modernize administrative and financial systems without sacrificing their core missions.

Still, leaders like Kinloch remain optimistic. “Our university will always act with integrity, responsibility, and trust,” she said. “We are an economic engine in the city of Charlotte, across the nation, and around the world.”

JCSU’s next formal accreditation review is scheduled for June 2026. Until then, the university is tasked with demonstrating measurable progress—fiscally and institutionally—toward compliance, all while upholding the legacy of one of the region’s most historic HBCUs.

The post HBCU Launches All-Hands Strategy After Accreditation Probation appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

From JCSU Standout to NFL Starter

Norman’s football journey started with a leap of faith. Born the youngest of ten children in Lincolnton, Georgia, and raised in Charlotte, North Carolina, he attended Johnson C. Smith University — a historically Black university — on a scholarship offer from Coach Eddie McGirt. It was a chance that came without seeing him play, but Norman made the most of it.

At JCSU, he starred as a two-way player, earned All-CIAA honors twice, and lit up the track with a 9.7-second 100-yard dash. His alma mater later honored him with its top athletic accolade: the Pettis Norman Male and Female Athlete of the Year Award.

Undrafted, But Undeniable

Despite being selected in the 16th round of the 1962 AFL Draft by the Dallas Texans, Norman joined the NFL’s Cowboys as an undrafted free agent — thanks to a sharp-eyed scout named Gil Brandt, who would later join the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Norman spent nine seasons in Dallas, playing 133 games and averaging 13.6 yards per reception. 1970 he helped lead the Cowboys to their first Super Bowl appearance.

Leading Change On and Off the Field

While Norman’s on-field performance turned heads, his off-field leadership left a lasting imprint. In the Cowboys’ segregated early years, he convinced legendary head coach Tom Landry to stop assigning hotel rooms by race. He was also the first Black official at a Dallas bank — a milestone that reflected his influence in the business community.

“Pettis encouraged all of the players to open up bank accounts,” former teammate Calvin Hill recalled. “He encouraged us to establish credit. He encouraged us to get involved in the community.”

A Gentle Exit, A Lasting Impact

Norman’s character was on full display even in the final moments of his Cowboys tenure. Before trading him to the San Diego Chargers in 1971, Coach Landry visited Norman at his job to deliver the news in person — a rare gesture in the business of football.

“He said, ‘I’ve had to do the most difficult thing I’ve ever had to do in football. I’ve had to involve you in a trade,” Norman once recalled.

Norman would finish his career with the Chargers, but his presence in Dallas — and his legacy — never left.

Champion for Civil Rights and Economic Equity

Long before activism became a buzzword in pro sports, Pettis Norman was about that life. He began his civil rights journey by participating in lunch counter protests as a college student. In the 1990s, he founded the Dallas Together Forum, an initiative that pushed major corporations in Dallas to improve minority hiring practices and increase contracts for women- and minority-owned businesses.

“I tried to do whatever I could to help change the kinds of things that society had operated under for such a long time,” he once said.

Forever HBCU

Norman’s heart never left his HBCU roots. His contributions earned him a spot in the Johnson C. Smith University Hall of Fame and the CIAA Hall of Fame. More importantly, he remained an example of what HBCUs can produce: excellence, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to justice.

From sit-ins to Super Bowls, Pettis Norman lived his life like he played the game — with toughness, clarity, and purpose. He was a Dallas Cowboy, a civil rights warrior, and a proud HBCU product who never stopped fighting for better.

Rest in power, Pettis Norman.

The post Dallas Cowboys Legend, HBCU Civil Rights Pioneer Dies at 86 appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Head Strength & Conditioning Coach Kevon Fly wasn’t about to let bad weather slow the momentum. Instead, he leaned into the moment, using it as a reminder that the road to greatness doesn’t stop for rain—or for anything, really. “The weight of spring is almost over,” he told his team. “But the grind never stops.”

That’s been the mantra since 2022, when Brick x Brick first began chronicling JCSU football’s uphill climb. What started as a story about an overlooked HBCU program fighting to find its footing has evolved into something bigger—a blueprint for what rebuilding looks like when there are no shortcuts, just sweat equity and belief.

From Humble Beginnings to a Culture Reborn

This spring season finale opens in a place often far removed from the spotlight: a weight room. Not just any weight room, though. Under Coach Fly’s leadership, the Golden Bulls have transitioned from a small, windowless training area inside the basketball gym to a state-of-the-art strength facility housed inside the newly renovated Student Achievement Center.

It’s symbolic. The infrastructure has changed, but more importantly, so has the mindset. “Where JCSU Football has rebuilt its culture one rep at a time,” the voiceover says. Every squat, sprint, and sweat-soaked hoodie has contributed to a cultural transformation in Charlotte that’s palpable on screen.

Even the team’s cool-down sessions—set to “old school” R&B slow jams—serve a purpose. They lighten the mood, yes, but they also reinforce a balance between discipline and family, grind, and gratitude. This isn’t just football; it’s a brotherhood with bigger dreams.

No Spring Game? No Problem.

When Mother Nature scrapped the spring showcase, the Golden Bulls responded with focus instead of frustration. Their final walkthrough became a moment of reflection—and redirection. Coach Maurice Flowers gathered the team as the rain came into Charlotte and reminded them just how far they’ve come since he arrived and how much farther they still need to go.

For the seniors, this was more than just the end of spring ball—it was the beginning of a legacy season. The 2025 campaign isn’t just about improvement; it’s about championships. The players know that anything less than a championship and/or D2 playoff run would feel like a letdown in the Queen City.

The Pressure is the Point

That kind of expectation might feel heavy elsewhere, but for JCSU football, it’s welcomed. It’s the natural result of building something sustainable—something real.

Coach Flowers and his staff aren’t just creating better athletes. They’re crafting better men. The kind who understand that building brick by brick means owning every detail, every lift, every missed assignment, and every comeback. That’s the HBCU way: resilience, resourcefulness, and relentless belief in what’s possible.

More Than a Series—It’s a Movement

Throughout the Spring Ball ’25 season, Brick x Brick has continued to spotlight what’s possible for HBCU football programs when the right leadership meets the right culture. And as the final credits roll on Spring Ball ’25, one thing is clear—JCSU isn’t interested in moral victories anymore.

They want rings. They want playoff banners. And they want to prove to everyone watching that the literal or figurative storm can’t stop what’s been built brick by brick in Charlotte, NC.

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Matthews told WBTV News that his accelerated path began when he started combining grade levels in his homeschooling journey.
“I just remember doing third and fourth grades together,” he said. “And fifth, sixth and seventh grades together.”

Despite his success, the journey wasn’t always easy. “It was at times when I lacked motivation,” Matthews admitted to WBTV News. “But I pushed myself and I ended up finishing.”

Matthews found that the discipline he developed while learning to play the saxophone in band helped shape his academic focus.
“In band, you have to be disciplined and well-focused to learn all the pieces of music, and that kind of translated into my schoolwork,” he shared.

He could be one of the youngest ever to attend the HBCU

In the fall, Matthews will begin his studies at JCSU, majoring in computer science. School officials are currently checking to see if he is the youngest student to ever attend the historic HBCU.

When asked what he’s looking forward to, Matthews told WBTV News, “Get to meet some interesting people. Make some new friends – can’t wait to meet my teachers.”

His mother, Sheikia Talley-Matthews, served as his primary teacher throughout his homeschooling experience.
“He could comprehend,” she told WBTV News. “So, the more he could do, the more I gave him. I always challenged him to keep going.”

JCSU is a family affair

Her dedication paid off in a big way. Matthews will be attending JCSU alongside his twin brothers, who are 17. All three will be walking the same campus their mother once called home.

“I got to become myself,” Talley-Matthews said of her time at the Charlotte, NC HBCU. “And it was a safe place. I wanted that for them as they transition from boyhood to manhood. I want them to know themselves fully, and I believe J.C. Smith is a great place to do that.”

While she’s confident in her son’s academic readiness, she expressed some concern about his social development. She is grateful, though, that he’ll be participating in the Becoming Kings mentoring program at JCSU. The initiative, which launched about four years ago, helps young men transition smoothly from high school to college life.

Before the semester officially starts, Matthews will spend six weeks on campus, learning the ropes and connecting with local businesses to build his social network. His long-term dream? To one day launch his own business, possibly in the cybersecurity field.

(Source: WBTV News)

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The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) issued the probationary sanction on June 12, citing ongoing failures to meet financial oversight and compliance standards. The decision follows a review of a second monitoring report initiated in 2023. The university remains fully accredited during this period.

Probation for good cause is the most serious sanction short of losing accreditation. Under SACSCOC policy, institutions are typically allowed up to two years to correct deficiencies before facing further action. JCSU’s following formal review is scheduled for June 2026.

University Response

In a statement, JCSU President Valerie Kinloch acknowledged the probation but framed it as an opportunity for institutional strengthening. “We are fully committed to strengthening all of our internal controls as we strive to become a nationally ranked, top-performing HBCU,” Kinloch said.

“Over the last year and a half, we have worked hard to improve our overall operations. In the weeks and months ahead, additional improvements will be made as we prepare for an on-campus SACSCOC Special Committee visit in 2026. Being placed on Good Cause provides us with an important opportunity to ensure continuous internal controls.”

Reasons for Probation

SACSCOC’s decision cited JCSU’s failure to meet standards related to fiscal responsibility, financial controls, sponsored research, external funds management, and compliance with federal and state obligations. The accrediting body also dispatched a Special Committee to the campus to evaluate the university’s progress firsthand.

Under SACSCOC policies, the maximum time allowed for observation is two years. By the end of this period, the agency must decide whether the school is in full compliance or whether further penalties, including potential loss of accreditation, will be enforced.

Kinloch emphasized that the university’s core mission remains intact despite the heightened scrutiny. “Our university will always act with integrity, responsibility, and trust,” she said. “We are an economic engine in the city of Charlotte, across the nation, and around the world.”

SACSCOC guidelines permit the extension of accreditation under good cause if an institution demonstrates recent progress toward compliance and provides credible plans to correct deficiencies within a year. JCSU now faces a critical timeline for reform implementation before the next review.

Founded in 1867, Johnson C. Smith University is one of North Carolina’s oldest HBCU institutions. The institution plays a significant role in Charlotte’s educational and economic landscape, offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

The probationary status is another reminder of the broader financial pressures facing many HBCUs. As they continue to balance institutional growth with regulatory oversight demands.

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For a program already rising thanks to the momentum of the “Brick x Brick with JCSU Football” docuseries, Williams’ arrival adds another weapon to a squad looking to finish what it started last season.

The 2024 Season: So Close, Yet So Far

If you watched “Brick x Brick with JCSU Football”, you already know how the 2024 season unfolded. JCSU stormed through the season with a perfect 8-0 record, fueled by grit, belief, and a brotherhood built behind the scenes.

The cameras captured it all—locker room speeches, brutal practices, and game-winning moments. But the fairytale didn’t get its perfect ending.

The Golden Bulls stumbled at the finish line. Dropping their final two games of the season to miss out on the CIAA Championship Game and narrowly miss the Division II playoffs—a gut punch that lingered beyond the final whistle.

What could have broken the program instead lit a fire. And that fire is burning hotter than ever heading into 2025.

Cam Williams: Walk-On to All-SIAC, Now a Golden Bull

Cam Williams’ story is the definition of betting on yourself. A walk-on at Miles College, Williams wasn’t highly recruited, wasn’t handed a starting job, and wasn’t supposed to be a star. But he showed up anyway—and worked.

By the end of the 2024 season, he had established himself as one of the best defensive backs in the SIAC. Recording 46 tackles, 16 pass breakups—the most in Miles College history—six interceptions, and one defensive touchdown.

His physical play at the line of scrimmage and his ability to erase top receivers made him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. That effort earned him Second-Team All-SIAC honors, and now, a ticket to Charlotte to suit up in blue and gold.

From Teammates To Rivals To Teammates

The HBCU football world has long been defined by the rich tradition and intense competition between the CIAA and the SIAC. The two Division II HBCU powerhouse conferences. They’re regional rivals but spiritual counterparts, with championships, legacies, and bragging rights on the line every fall.

The 2023 Florida Beach Bowl was a collision point between those two worlds. It was a heavy downpour at DRV PNK Stadium in Miami, but the stakes were even heavier. JCSU, led by second-year head coach Maurice Flowers, went head-to-head against his former team, Fort Valley State, and his former quarterback, Kelvin Durham.

The Golden Bulls fought tooth and nail in the rain-soaked slugfest but came up short in a heartbreaking loss. The final episode of Season 1 of “Brick x Brick” captured every moment. The frustration, the pride, and the realization that JCSU was close—painfully close—to breaking through.

Now, in a twist that only college football (and maybe great documentary storytelling) can deliver. Coach Flowers and Kelvin Durham are again back on the same sideline, this time in the CIAA.

A Blueprint for Greatness

With the additions of Kelvin Durham, Armone Harris, and Cam Williams, this JCSU roster is loaded in a way few could have imagined just three years ago.

Even better, they’re joining a core of proven stars, including Brevin Caldwell, the clutch wide receiver who delivers time and again; Quavaris Crouch, the former Power Five linebacker whose presence is sure to transform the defense; and Kammarro Edmunds, the workhorse running back who consistently gave opposing defenses headaches.

This mix of SIAC playmakers and homegrown talent has turned the 2025 Golden Bulls into what may be the most talented roster in program history. On paper, they’re not just contenders—they’re one of the teams to beat in the CIAA.

Brick by Brick… The Culture is Different Now

The culture shift at JCSU isn’t just happening on the field—it’s broadcast for the world to see. The success of “Brick x Brick” has taken the program from an under-the-radar HBCU squad to a national story in the world of DII football.

The series’ raw, behind-the-scenes, no-filter approach has become a recruiting tool in itself. Players around the country are watching—and they want in.

The mission is clear. The heartbreak of 2024? That’s fuel. The goal in 2025? Finish the job. Season 3 of “Brick x Brick” is about to roll. And this time, the Golden Bulls aren’t just telling a story. They’re writing history.

Watch episodes of “Brick x Brick with JCSU Football” anytime on the HBCUGameday.com Watch page, the HBCU Gameday YouTube channel, and every Sunday at 7 p.m. on Fox Soul.

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The former Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU) standout spent the 2024–25 season battling a torn labrum in her hip. Despite the pain, she led her team through adversity and capped the year with a postseason tournament title. Now, she’s taking her talents to Mississippi Valley State—one of the toughest HBCU programs in Division I.

“I didn’t think I was gonna get picked up by any D1 schools,” Smith admits. “I was playing injured the whole season. It wasn’t even my best.”

Yet, talent always finds a way. Through grit, discipline, and unshakable determination, she earned her next shot.

Fighting Through the Pain

Smith didn’t just lace up while injured—she battled through one of the most painful conditions in basketball: a torn hip labrum.

“I had no labrum in my right hip. It was detached,” she explains. “I just got steroid shots to manage the pain.”

The injury disrupted her rhythm and limited her explosiveness. Even so, Smith refused to let her team down. With a shallow frontcourt, she embraced the role of the lone post presence and anchored the paint night after night.

“I was the only true big. So I had no choice but to push through.”

That mindset didn’t just keep her on the floor—it fueled a run few expected.

Surviving a Season of Chaos

Even with a capable roster, Johnson C. Smith’s season swung wildly. Practices lacked structure, and players struggled with fatigue.

“We’d practice for hours, just running pickup. No warmups, no individual workouts,” Smith recalls. “It wasn’t like the other schools I’d been to.”

Despite the disarray, the team’s chemistry found room to grow. Connections formed naturally, even as systems faltered.

Midseason, everything shifted. Assistant coach Taisha Murphy—known as Coach Tay—took the reins. Her approach transformed the team.

“She was hands-on. We watched more film, fixed our transition defense. It made a difference,” says Smith.

Under Murphy’s leadership, Johnson C. Smith rallied from the bottom of the CIAA to clinch the inaugural BCIC tournament title, despite entering as the final team selected.

“We weren’t even in the tournament at first. We got called last. But we proved we belonged.”

Betting on Valley, Betting on Herself

Desiree Smith’s transfer announcement caught some off guard. Mississippi Valley State’s women’s program is chronically underfunded and under the radar. Still, that’s precisely what drew her in.

“I’m a dog,” she says. “Valley needs dogs. I felt like I fit.”

Her decision wasn’t about luxury—it was about legacy. For Smith, Valley offers more than a scholarship; it provides a challenge worth taking.

“If they need someone to go out and compete, I’m that player.”

Eyes on the Pros, Mind on the Mission

After Valley, Smith has big plans. She hopes to continue her basketball career overseas, using her HBCU platform as a springboard.

If that doesn’t materialize, she’s already carving a future in performance therapy—with the U.S. Navy as a potential next step.

“I’m majoring in physical therapy,” she explains. “If I go into the Navy, I’ll go in as an officer. The plan is to work with athletes long-term.”

Her passion for injury prevention stems from her own lived experience. Through nerve pain, hip issues, and off-season grind sessions, she’s built a toolbox she’s ready to share.

“I dealt with all that and still trained every summer. I want to help athletes train smarter.”

A Legacy That Runs in the Family

Basketball runs deep in the Smith household. Desiree Smith is the younger sister of Dennis Smith Jr., a North Carolina basketball icon and NBA veteran known for his athleticism and creativity. The former McDonald’s All-American starred at NC State before being selected 9th overall in the 2017 NBA Draft.

“We’re close,” she says. “He watches my games, gives me feedback. He always tells me not to be afraid to ask for help.”

While she values her independence, her brother’s support adds motivation and perspective.

From Highlight Reels to National Spotlight

Stats didn’t just drive Smith’s breakout. She became a central figure in the Brick by Brick docuseries, which showcased her grit and game.

“That show helped me a lot,” she says. “I couldn’t really make my own highlight reels. But the footage they got—it showed what I could do.”

For players at smaller HBCUs, visibility can be the difference between being overlooked and being recruited. Smith seized the moment.

Ready to Lead, Ready to Prove It

Let’s be honest—winning at Mississippi Valley State won’t be easy. But Smith isn’t chasing easy. She’s built for the hard route.

From injury setbacks to HBCU championships, from being counted out to making believers, her journey reflects everything that defines HBCU basketball: heart, hustle, and hunger.

With one season left, Desiree Smith is ready to write her final chapter—and it’s going to be loud.

“I know what I’m signing up for,” she says. “And I’m ready for it.”

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Tournament Highlights

• 7-on-7 competition for skill positions, plus individual linemen challenges.
• Four top high school teams: Hickory, Monroe, Westside, and Chambers from North and South Carolina.
• High-energy drills and matchups, showcasing local talent.

A Personal Touch for Coach Flowers

Maurice Flowers ’96, JCSU head coach and alumnus, shared his excitement:

“As a Charlotte native, it’s incredible to see the Panthers partnering with my alma mater… Having it here at JCSU feels surreal. It’s a full?circle moment,” he told the Johnson C. Smith University website.

University Leadership Celebrates Progress

President Dr. Valerie Kinloch ’96 emphasized JCSU’s vision:

“Hosting the Panthers’ Nike 11?On Tournament on our campus—welcoming over 120 student-athletes—is a powerful moment. It reinforces a New Era of Excellence for Johnson C. Smith University.”

Dr. Kinloch added:

“This is what investing in the next generation looks like… bringing young people onto our campus… ‘Why not JCSU?’ It’s a great day to be a Golden Bull—and we’re just getting started!”

Athletic Director Applauds Exposure

Dr. Denisha Hendricks, Director of Athletics, focused on recruitment:

“It’s a big moment for our campus and our football facility… It’s time people know about this space. We’re excited to share athletics’ academic and professional impact.”

Partnership: Panthers and JCSU

Riley Fields, Panthers Director of Community Relations, explained the move:

“With construction at Bank of America Stadium, we needed a new venue. Our longstanding partnership with JCSU made this a natural fit—Golden Bulls hospitality was phenomenal.”

Fields also praised JCSU football’s recent success:

“After the most successful season since 1970 and Coach Flowers earning CIAA Coach of the Year in 2024, we’re proud to support this growth.”

Panthers Alumni Give Back

Former NFL players with the Panthers-turned-coaches, took part:

• Captain Munnerlyn now leads Chambers High School.
• Charles Johnson serves as his defensive coordinator.
  Fields noted, “Their presence adds inspiration and real expertise.”

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Harris, one of the top free agent transfers in the portal, received offers from FCS HBCUs, including Jackson State, Alabama A&M, and Alabama State. But after a record-breaking season at Clark Atlanta and a highlight-filled career at Allen University. Armone Harris is teaming up with former Fort Valley State quarterback Kelvin Durham in what could be the most explosive offenses in Division II football this fall.

Another bold step forward for a JCSU program that fell short of glory in 2024—and now looks ready to finish what it started.

For eight weeks in 2024, JCSU football was the story in HBCU sports. Not just because of wins, but because of the way they won, the way they looked doing it, and the way fans fell in love with them in real time through HBCU Gameday’s raw, behind-the-scenes docuseries, Brick x Brick with JCSU Football.

They were the hottest HBCU in the nation—undefeated at 8-0, ranked in the Division II polls, and even earning a few spotlight segments on ESPN’s College Gameday.

But just as quickly as they climbed, the fall hit harder.

In back-to-back heartbreakers, the Golden Bulls’ dreams came crashing down. First, a crushing loss to CIAA powerhouse Fayetteville State in Charlotte—physical, methodical, merciless. Then, in a bitter rivalry game, they fell to Livingstone College, the Blue Bears ripping away not just bragging rights but a CIAA Championship Game berth and an NCAA Division II playoff appearance. Just like that, JCSU’s season went from a dream to a documentary ending in tears.

Now in 2025, JCSU is reloading, not rebuilding—and they’ve got a brand-new weapon.

Enter Armone Harris, one of the most electric wide receivers in HBCU football, transferring in from Clark Atlanta University. The Tampa, Florida native isn’t just a stat sheet stuffer—he’s a game-changer, and the latest chess piece in head coach Maurice Flowers’ master plan.

Flowers, heading into year four at the helm, has stacked the deck with his first full recruiting class and a wave of senior transfers hungry for redemption. The Golden Bulls are locked in on a single goal: finish what they started.

Leading the transfer charge in Charlotte is former Fort Valley State quarterback Kelvin Durham, one of the top DII signal-callers in the nation. Durham, who played under Flowers when he was at FVSU, brings a live arm, quick feet, and even quicker decision-making. Over his career, Durham has thrown for almost 6,000 yards and over 50 touchdowns. But more than numbers, Durham brings pedigree and poise—and he didn’t come to Charlotte alone.

Durham helped lure Harris to JCSU. Ironically, the talent of these former SIAC playmakers has already been featured in an HBCU Gameday Original.

The 2023 HBCU Gameday feature titled “Contender” was focused on Kelvin Durham’s FVSU squad facing off against an upstart Allen University team hungry to prove they belonged with the best in the conference.

Contender – FVSU vs Allen – 2023

Durham threw for five touchdowns. Harris, then at Allen, torched defenders for six catches, a touchdown, and over 85 receiving yards in a shootout thriller. Now, two years later, both will make their debut on Brick x Brick as JCSU Golden Bulls.

That wasn’t the end of Harris’s rise.

When Allen head coach Teddy Keaton took the reins at Clark Atlanta in 2024, Armone Harris followed, promptly rewriting the Panthers’ record books. In just one season, he set school records in receptions (75), receiving yards (1,004), and touchdowns (14), leading CAU to an SIAC Championship Game appearance in Keaton’s first year.

Now, he brings that explosiveness to a JCSU offense that suddenly looks like a juggernaut.

JCSU football’s 2025 reload isn’t just about flashy new arrivals. It’s got some serious firepower coming back from last year, too. Brevin Caldwell, one of the most consistent and decorated wideouts in HBCU football, returns after averaging over 100 yards per game last season. Giving Durham not one, but two senior receivers with 1,000 yard seasons in 2024. In the backfield,

Kammarro Edmunds, the bruising back who led the team in with 5.7 yards per carry last year, is back to anchor the ground game. And perhaps the biggest x-factor? Quavaris Crouch, the former Tennessee star and second-team All-Big Ten linebacker at Michigan State, is finally returning to his natural collegiate position on defense after a stint at running back. With NFL-caliber athleticism and sideline-to-sideline instincts, Crouch has the potential to transform JCSU’s defense into a championship unit. And if the sneak peek we got of him at middle linebacker this spring is any indication. He will be a dominant force at the DII level.

Throw in the return of Brick x Brick—HBCU Gameday’s cinematic fly-on-the-wall series that captures it all in real time—and this year’s Golden Bulls squad won’t just be playing for wins. They’ll be playing for legacy.

The 2025 Johnson C. Smith football team isn’t sneaking up on anyone. They’ve got expectations, they’ve got an HBCU Gameday docuseries, and they’ve got the city of Charlotte behind them. The CIAA is stacked, and the scars from 2024 still sting. But this team has what the best HBCU programs are made of—talent, toughness, and togetherness.

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One of the centerpiece athletes of HBCU Gameday’s hit docuseries, Jones wasn’t just a football player. He was the guy on defense over the first two seasons—the vocal leader, the motivator, the heartbeat. Now, the JCSU football standout is transferring to Western Kentucky University, where he’ll play out his final year of eligibility at the FBS level.

But it wasn’t just good TV. It was grit forged in adversity. Before the lights, cameras, and historic win streak, Elin Jones was just another underdog Atlanta-area prospect with no D1 offers and one last shot.

“Man, the campus was like two buildings and some gravel,” he said, recalling his first college stop at Virginia University of Lynchburg. With limited resources and barely a weight room to train in, Jones did what he’s always done—made something out of nothing.

“I tried my best to make it something out of it,” he said. “I got a little film, pushed my GPA, and just went to work.”

VUL was small, but it gave him a crack at the game. And when no one else was calling, that mattered. Even while playing against NAIA and D3 competition, Jones treated every rep like a job interview. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was real.

From Rugby Hopeful to Reality Check

His raw talent soon translated to a different field—rugby. After a DM on Twitter asked if he’d ever played, Jones found himself on a club team that traveled the South and eventually qualified for a national championship in Kansas City.

“We were so good that they flew us out for nationals,” he said. “We made it to the finals. Lost a tough one, but it all happened for a reason.”

That performance earned him attention from the University of Georgia’s rugby program, where he trained and competed with the squad in hopes of walking on to the football team.

“I was working out with the UGA rugby guys. And loved it. Competing, grinding… but then they told me I had to get accepted into the school.”

Unfortunately, his GPA wasn’t high enough to clear admissions. The window closed before it ever really opened.

“I had the opportunity from UGA Rugby. But I didn’t even make it to the application. I was crushed.”

Another door closed—but the work never stopped.

Answering the Call from Coach Flowers

Jones’ story could have ended there, but another opportunity was waiting, thanks to someone who had believed in him before: Coach Maurice Flowers.

“I didn’t have no home after my freshman year,” Jones said. “Coach Flowers offered me a shot when no one else did.”

Flowers had first connected with Jones during his time at Fort Valley State, even hosting him on a recruiting visit. That relationship paid off when Flowers took the reins of JCSU football and brought Jones into the fold.

“He told me, ‘Anything you want—just work for it and compete.’ And that’s what I did.”

Tone Setter

In a program rebuilding under new leadership, Elin Jones quickly emerged as a tone-setter—one whose fire, energy, and relentless motor helped fuel a cultural shift at JCSU.

“We were undefeated, man—kings of Charlotte. But when I went down, something was missing. That energy on the field wasn’t the same.”

He clawed his way into the JCSU football lineup, helped lead the team during its 8-0 run to start the 2024 season, and then, just when it felt like everything was coming together, he suffered a devastating injury.

“I tore my MCL and meniscus, and we didn’t even know the severity,” Jones said. “I was trying to make a football play, and one of my teammates rolled up on me.”

The Moment It Turned

“I told myself, ‘It’s either kill or be killed,’” he recalled. “If it’s my last shot, I’m going to give this thing everything I got.”

Despite being sidelined, Elin Jones never stopped leading. Even when he couldn’t walk, he stayed engaged—texting teammates, showing up on crutches, and pushing through physical therapy with relentless drive. Behind the scenes, he was also battling for another year of eligibility. And when the NCAA granted it, the script flipped.

That’s when Mike Walker, a respected trainer, got wind of his story and helped amplify it. Within 24 hours of spreading the word, Jones’ phone lit up with calls from the likes of the University of Maryland, Georgia State, and Missouri.

Brick x Brick Becomes a Launchpad

HBCU Gameday’s Brick x Brick series didn’t just document his pain—it helped rewrite his future.

“Brick x Brick was great exposure for me,” Jones said. “Every coach I met at Western Kentucky told me they’d seen my energy on HBCU Gameday—every practice, every game day. That mattered.”

It wasn’t just hype. The film backed it up. His tape showed a dominant interior force who led by example. The docuseries featured a young man who never quit, never gave up, and never stopped believing—even when he had every reason to.

“It wasn’t just what I did on the field. It was how I led. They saw that, and they wanted that.”

From Smith to the Hilltoppers

Eventually, Western Kentucky made it official. The coaching staff, moved by his story and backed by references from across HBCU football, offered him a full scholarship. Within days, Jones was on campus—smiling, healthy, and locked in.

“When I saw the campus, met the staff—I knew I had a new home,” he said.

He signed on the spot.

Undefeated ‘Til Death

Now seven months removed from surgery, Jones is back where he belongs: in the trenches, working toward Saturdays, chasing greatness. But he’s also carrying something more—proof that DII HBCU athletes, given the platform and the spotlight, can shine at any level.

His season motto? A scripture: Galatians 6:9—”Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due time, we will reap a harvest.”

For Elin Jones, the harvest is only beginning.

“It’s really simple,” he says. “Undefeated ‘til death. You win when you try again.”

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The news came via the official GamecockTrackXC Instagram account, where it posted a picture of Williams with the caption, “Starting the regionals week with a big transfer announcement…welcome to the squad Tyson.”

From Mallard Creek to JCSU

Williams’ journey began at Mallard Creek High School in Charlotte, North Carolina. There, he recorded personal bests of 10.39 seconds in the 100m and 20.88 in the 200m. He earned All-State honors and helped his school win a 4A state title in the 4x200m relay with a time of 1:24.81.

Choosing to stay close to home, he committed to JCSU, one of the top HBCU programs in the country. Under legendary head coach Carol Lawrence, Williams thrived.

Making His Mark in College

In his freshman indoor season, Williams claimed the NCAA DII national title in the 200m, running 20.58 seconds, the fourth-fastest time in DII history. During the outdoor season, he placed 3rd in the 200m and 5th in the 100m at the national championships. Earlier in the year, he set school records of 10.21 (100m) and 20.17 (200m) at the VertKlasse Invitational.

His breakout season earned him CIAA Track Athlete of the Year honors.

The Leap to the SEC

Transferring to South Carolina is a massive step up. The Gamecocks have a rich track and field history, boasting multiple NCAA appearances and Olympic alumni. Head coach Tim Hall continues to build one of the fastest sprint programs in the SEC.

For Williams, this move means more exposure, elite training, and the chance to compete against the best of the best.

While Williams’ future looks bright, his departure is a loss for HBCU athletics. Programs like JCSU, led by Coach Lawrence, have long developed top-tier talent despite limited resources. Lawrence herself is a respected figure, known for mentoring champions and Olympians.

Williams’ transfer highlights a growing challenge: retaining rising stars within HBCU programs. His success story began at an HBCU, and that should not be forgotten as his star rises.

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Wingate, a DII mainstay, has made the NCAA playoffs in four of the past six seasons. Known for their discipline, physicality, and a defense that doesn’t give an inch, the Bulldogs offered the perfect test for a JCSU squad hungry to build on its momentum under head coach Maurice Flowers.

“Wingate University is a model. They’re 30 miles away from our campus… Anytime we can go ahead and go through the process (of a travel game) — packing up, getting on a bus, going to a locker room — we need that experience,” says Coach Flowers in the episode.

With seven road games on the schedule this fall, the scrimmage served as more than just another spring practice. It was a dress rehearsal for what’s to come — a controlled environment to simulate hostile territory and execute under pressure. “You can talk about it in practice, but when you don’t communicate in a game and it costs you a big play or a penalty, now you see that it really hurts.”

‘Brick x Brick’: Building a Bull City Legacy

Brick x Brick has been more than a docuseries — it’s been a front-row seat to JCSU football’s transformation. Since its launch in 2023, the series has captured the essence of an HBCU program that refuses to fold. Just two seasons ago, JCSU was mired in obscurity. Now? They’re on the verge of something special.

Under Coach Flowers, the Golden Bulls have been reshaped through recruiting, player development, and a no-shortcuts culture. Each episode gives a unique perspective into the emotional heartbeats of the team and the energy shift taking place at this historic HBCU in Charlotte, NC.

And in Reps on the Road, the spotlight shines brightest on a name that Charlotte football fans know well: Quavaris Crouch.

The Return of Quavaris Crouch

If the name Quavaris Crouch rings a bell, it should. The 2019 NC Gatorade Player of the Year out of Harding University High was once one of the most coveted prospects in the country. After stints at Tennessee and Michigan State, where he earned second-team All-Big Ten honors at linebacker, Crouch is back in Charlotte, suited up in blue and gold, reigniting his career in HBCU football with the Golden Bulls.

In this episode, fans get a candid look at Crouch’s comeback journey to the defensive side of the ball. His move back to linebacker from running back marks a return to his college football roots. “That Michigan State-Tennessee Crouch at linebacker is coming back, baby.” Coach Flowers jokes with Crouch in the episode. “He hadn’t played a meaningful defensive snap since he was at Michigan State, where he made second-team All-Big Ten… so we needed to see it.”

From explosive sideline hits to sideline leadership, Crouch looks every bit the impact player that once terrorized Big Ten offenses. And make no mistake — his presence at linebacker will be a game-changer for JCSU in 2025.

What You’ll See in ‘Reps on the Road’

This episode isn’t just about X’s and O’s — it’s about mindset. You’ll catch exclusive sideline audio, pre-game speeches, and gritty moments in the trenches. There are also cinematic highlights from the showdown at Wingate University. Raw behind-the-scenes moments and a glimpse at what it means to build a program the right way — brick by brick.

The new episode of Brick x Brick: Reps on the Road is now streaming on the HBCU Gameday YouTube channel, the gameday app, and the HBCU Gameday watch page.

Watch now:

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Why it matters: More high-ranking qualifiers from HBCUs signals increasing parity and investment in Black college track and field programs.

Top HBCU Sprinters Are Among the Nation’s Best

Freshman Tyson Williams from Johnson C. Smith headlines the men’s sprints, seeded 2nd nationally in the 200m (20.17) and tied for 12th in the 100m (10.21). At Lincoln University (Mo.), veteran Reuben Nichols brings strength in the 200m (22nd, 20.80) and 400m (13th, 46.46).

On the women’s side, Shantae George of Lincoln (Mo.) ranks 6th in the 200m (23.27) and 16th in the 100m (11.43), anchoring both of the school’s nationally ranked relays.

Why it matters: Top seedings from Williams and George could translate into national titles and team points.

HBCU Relay Squads Carry Podium Potential

Lincoln (Mo.) brings depth and speed in relays. The men’s 4x400m team is ranked 2nd (3:06.23), and the women’s 4x400m squad shares the same ranking (3:37.88). The 4x100m relay team is ranked 3rd (45.12), reinforcing Lincoln’s strength in team events.

Why it matters: These relays are built not just for qualifying—but for winning.

SIAC schools have built sprinting powerhouses

Kibren Moore of Albany State is competing in the 100m (15th, 10.25), 200m (7th, 20.51), and the 4x100m relay. Darrian Clarke of Benedict College is seeded 20th in the 200m (20.77), and his team’s 4x100m relay is ranked 6th nationally at 40.18.

Albany State’s Cadence Cray will also race in the 200m (17th, 23.43), while teammate Nathalia Rowe holds the 6th seed in the women’s 400m hurdles (58.83).

Why it matters: These programs are turning conference dominance into national relevance.

Hurdlers Prove HBCUs Can Coach the Details

In technical events like the hurdles, HBCUs have strong representation:

• Mohamed Adoini (Johnson C. Smith): 110m hurdles (9th), 400m hurdles (10th)
• Jaevon Riley (Claflin): 400m hurdles (10th)
• Sharim Hamilton (Lincoln – Mo.): 400m hurdles (13th)
• Clinton Laguerre (Lincoln – Mo.): 400m hurdles (17th)
• Jermiah Alibey (Morehouse): 400m hurdles (18th)
• Shawn Jarrett II (Tuskegee): Also among the top qualifiers
• Odeshia Nanton (Lincoln – Mo.): Women’s 400m hurdles (11th)

Why it matters: Success in hurdles reflects disciplined coaching and well-rounded athletic development.

Middle-Distance Runners Bring Versatility

In the men’s 400m, Samuel Vessat (Edward Waters) is seeded 8th (46.18), with Michael Simmons Jr. (Morehouse) at 13th (46.42). Zion Murry (Claflin) will compete in the 800m (18th, 1:49.25).

On the women’s side, Shevanae Thomas (Lincoln – Mo.) is 12th in the 400m (53.41), and Kamani Johns (Lincoln – Pa.) is 19th (53.89). Shaneal Clarke-Giddings (Lincoln – Mo.) holds the 13th seed in the 800m (2:07.52).

Why it matters: These athletes add balance to sprint-heavy squads, expanding HBCUs’ scoring potential.

Final Takeaway: HBCUs Are Poised to Make Noise

This year’s championship marks a turning point. HBCUs are sending more top-ranked athletes than ever before. With strong relay teams and individual medal contenders, these programs are no longer underdogs—they’re contenders.

Why it matters: Success at the national level opens doors to funding, recognition, and future recruiting advantages, helping HBCU programs continue to thrive.

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Coach Banks, who stepped in as interim head coach in May 2024, has been officially named the 14th head coach in the program’s history. Under his interim leadership, the men’s team achieved a 15-13 overall record and secured its first CIAA Tournament win since 2020, finishing 8-8 in league play. Banks brings a wealth of experience from his previous roles at IUPUI and Alabama A&M. Banks was instrumental in developing top defensive teams and mentoring all-conference players.

Hoops Legacy

The men’s basketball program has been a cornerstone of JCSU’s athletic success. Under the leadership of Coach Stephen Joyner Sr., who served for 36 years. The Golden Bulls secured three CIAA Tournament Championships in 2001, 2008, and 2009. Joyner’s tenure culminated in over 600 career wins, making him the winningest coach in JCSU history and placing him third in CIAA men’s basketball history for total victories.

On the women’s side, Vanessa Taylor returns to JCSU after more than a decade away. She was the head coach from 2001 to 2012, amassing a 215-112 record. Her coaching journey includes a head coaching role at North Carolina Central University. She held assistant positions at Coastal Carolina University, Queens University of Charlotte, and Lander University. Taylor’s extensive experience and previous success with the Golden Bulls position her well to lead the women’s program back to its former glory.

Under Coach Taylor’s leadership, the Golden Bulls made five NCAA DII Women’s Basketball Championship appearances (2006, 2008, 2009, 2011, and 2012). During the 2010-11 season, Coach Taylor led the program to a 26-5 overall record, the best in school history.

Brick x Brick with JCSU Women’s Basketball

The women’s basketball program has recently been in the spotlight through HBCU Gameday’s “Brick x Brick” docuseries. The five-part series provided an in-depth look at the team’s challenges and triumphs during the 2024-2025 season. The series highlighted the team’s resilience as they navigated a season with only nine active players and through a change at head coach. Offering fans unprecedented behind-the-scenes access. Episodes are available on HBCUGameday.com and air Sundays at 7 PM on Fox Soul.

With these leadership changes, JCSU looks to strengthen its basketball programs and reclaim its legacy within HBCU athletics.

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Since its debut, Brick x Brick has delivered an “NFL Hard Knocks”-style lens into the resurrection of the football program at Charlotte, NC’s only HBCU. The series has grown in lockstep with JCSU’s football resurgence, documenting everything from locker room speeches to spring practice grit. With Flowers at the helm since 2022, the Golden Bulls have steadily moved from rebuilding to contending, earning respect across the CIAA and Division II football.

Episode two focuses on the coaches helping Maurice Flowers shape the team’s culture and competitive edge. Strength and Conditioning Coach Kevon Fly, the vocal and motivational leader of the Golden Bulls, sets the tone early in practice with a phrase he can be heard saying throughout three seasons of the series: “Champions do consistently what others do occasionally” His intensity is matched by Defensive Coordinator Barry Tripp, who demands discipline and emotional control. “ Put your head in your gap. Its no way you gonna to lock this man out. First you got to get him off your body, if you just go in there and do this right here (turning his head), he gonna to whoop you.”

True to the Game

What truly sets coaches like Tripp and Fly apart is their willingness to lead from the front. In one standout scene, both line up with players during contact drills, showing they’re not just coaches, but warriors who still embrace the game’s physicality. “Y’all forget I used to do this s–t too,” Tripp says, moments after lowering his shoulder in a hands-on demonstration. Coach Fly echoes that sentiment, stepping into drills to drive home technique and toughness. It’s a rare level of commitment that instantly earns player respect.

Offensive Line Coach Kevin “Bear” Thompson leans on his experience coaching at the FCS level to instill toughness and execution in the trenches. Using his signature sense of humor to drive home his points: “I want wine, I gave you some grapes, I want wine, you giving me back grapes.” Meanwhile, Cornerbacks Coach James Lott, an All-ACC defensive back at Clemson University in the 1980s, emphasizes detail and personal growth: “I ain’t got to always engage with him. When I come, I can smack his hands down and be ready for him to go outside.”

Coach Flowers’ vision for JCSU is about more than wins—it’s about building a legacy rooted in character, resilience, and community. The team’s chant, “One team, one mind, one goal,” echoes throughout the series as a rallying cry for unity and purpose.

Brick x Brick with JCSU Football | Spring Ball ’25 | Each 1 Teach 1 | Production Stills

New episodes of Brick x Brick air as part of the HBCU Gameday show on the Fox Soul network every Sunday at 7 PM Eastern. Fans can also watch episodes anytime on the HBCU Gameday YouTube channel and on the homepage of hbcugameday.com.

Brick x Brick with JCSU Football continues to document the Golden Bulls’ rise, offering a powerful window into the unique culture and spirit that define HBCU athletics. With coaches who coach from experience and players who embrace the grind, JCSU’s story is just getting started.

Watch Brick x Brick with JCSU Football

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The Trump administration has intensified its scrutiny of colleges and universities that use diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. The nation’s president pledged to cancel federal funding from schools that retain DEI-related curricula and programs. As a result, some HBCUs — such as Florida A&M and Johnson C. Smith — are preparing to tailor their budgets to reflect an academic landscape that may lack federal funding or devise strategic plans to champion and protect the longevity of their institutions. 

Loss of Funding

In late March, FAMU lost a $16.3 million federal grant, one that supported faculty hires and cutting-edge research into artificial intelligence and cancer biology. Even more, one of the grant’s main areas of focus includes colorectal cancer disparities among African Americans. Currently, FAMU is appealing the loss of its grant to the National Institute of Health (NIH).

“The loss of funding from the Department of Education could potentially impact funds that have been used to support graduate students and academic departmental innovation,” said Charles Weatherford, vice president for research at FAMU, per NBC News. “Less funding opportunities would impact types of financial support available to students to further their higher education aspirations.”

Valerie Kinloch became the president of Johnson C. Smith University — a private HBCU in Charlotte, North Carolina — nearly two years ago.  When she assumed the role, she never imagined navigating the potential collapse of the U.S. Department of Education, leading a university that would not receive federal funding for programs like Upward Bound, which helps first-generation college students, or dealing with the potential for diminished student enrollment and numerous staffing cuts.

But if the Trump administration dismantles the Education Department, JCSU does not plan to be left behind. The university launched a $10 million fundraising effort to offset the potential funding gap.

More Context

For context, more than 300,000 students attend close to 100 accredited HBCUs across 19 states, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Seventy-three percent of HBCU students receive Pell Grants — federal aid intended for low-income students — compared to only 36% at non-HBCUs, according to a 2019 report by the United Negro College Fund. For many of these students, this funding can determine whether students choose to attend college or choose an alternative route.

While 2025 does not mark the first time HBCUs have faced stark financial discrimination, some schools remain in stable financial condition to avoid dealing with federal funding issues. In 2022, Forbes completed an analysis and reported that HBCUs have been underfunded by over $12 billion over the past three decades compared to non-HBCUs. 

North Carolina A&T, a public HBCU based in Greensboro, North Carolina, has the largest endowment among public HBCUs. Sitting at $202 million, according to NBC. Howard, a private HBCU based in Washington, DC, recently earned the title of becoming the first HBCU to establish a $1 billion endowment. Add Spelman College, a private HBCU for women based in Atlanta, to the list of Black schools that leaders believe will be sustainable if federal funding is removed.

Related Story: Trump administration restores HBCU 1890 funding after pause

“As an institution and HBCU, Spelman College has positioned itself to feel pretty confident that we’re OK,” said Fatima Brunson, an assistant professor of education at Spelman, per NBC.

However, not every HBCU carries the same luxury as schools like North Carolina A&T, Howard, and Spelman. As a result, Brunson believes that leaders across HBCUs should collectively use this time to remind themselves why the institutions were established in the first place.

“Education is under attack and it’s just something that we’re kind of in the trenches with,” Brunson told NBC. “If anything, it’s making us go back to the deeper philosophical reason for why we are here in the first place.”

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The 2024 season was a rollercoaster for JCSU football. The Golden Bulls started 8-0 and quickly became one of the hottest teams in HBCU football, drawing national attention with their dominant defense and explosive offense. However, the team stumbled down the stretch, losing their final two games and narrowly missing both the CIAA championship game and a potential NCAA Division II playoff berth. The late-season heartbreak has only fueled the returning players. Guys like Brevin Caldwell, who knows the Golden Bulls’ 2025 campaign is his last chance to bring a championship back to the Queen City for JCSU.

WATCH: Brick x Brick with JCSU Football | Spring Ball ’25 | First Day Out

The Charlotte, NC native stars in the premiere episode of the new spring season of Brick x Brick with JCSU Football. HBCU Gameday’s behind-the-scenes docuseries has covered the HBCU football program’s rebuild during Maurice Flower’s tenure in Charlotte.

In the mic-’d-up portion of the episode, Caldwell showcases his determination and professional mindset. He gives viewers a glimpse into the work ethic of a top HBCU football player, as he’s one of the first players on the field before practice in the “First Day Out” episode of the series.

HBCU to NFL

“I’m aspiring for a professional opportunity,” said Caldwell on Brick x Brick. “So it’s just being a pro at everything I do, man. The way that I train, the way that I practice, the way that I live, the way I eat. Taking that professional mindset, applying it here while I’m a senior, and just dominate. So that’s all I can do. And then I try to spread that energy to my teammates.”

That drive is a defining trait of the former West Charlotte High School standout, who arrived at JCSU with big goals and has steadily grown into a leader both on and off the field. Since joining the Golden Bulls, Brevin Caldwell has developed into one of the CIAA’s premier receivers. Over the past two seasons, he has posted multiple 100-yard games and has consistently been one of the top targets in the conference thanks to his route discipline, sure hands, and ability to stretch the field.

“I feel like we pieced it together (last year), man. We found ways to beat really good opponents, obviously let two slip away at the very end. But, you know, that’s what this year is for.” Caldwell has some unfinished business on the personal side too, as his omission from the AFCA DII All-America team is also fueling the 6 foot 1, 185 lb receiver during the offseason. “I feel like I missed out on All-American last year. I was AFCA All-Region. One out of eight guys and four guys got selected for All-American. I wasn’t, you know, a part of the cut.”

CIAA’s Best

During his time at JCSU, Caldwell has built a reputation as one of the top wideouts in the conference. Known for his precise route-running and strong hands, he’s been a consistent threat in the Golden Bulls’ offense. In his career, Caldwell has totaled 180 receptions for 2,286 yards and 14 touchdowns. His standout 2024 performance earned him First team All-CIAA honors and Team Offensive MVP.

But this spring, with a new quarterback under center, the stakes—and potential—are even higher. Enter Fort Valley State transfer Kelvin Durham, one of the top Division II HBCU football quarterbacks in the country. The dynamic dual-threat veteran brings a versatile skill set and big-play ability to the JCSU offense. Caldwell and Durham have already begun to develop chemistry. Developing a connection could be the key to unlocking the full potential of the Golden Bulls’ passing attack in 2025.

Brevin Caldwell on Brick x Brick with JCSU Football | Spring Ball ’25 | First Day Out

“I’ve taken it upon myself to hone in on that chemistry. All the hours that aren’t seen behind closed doors. As soon as he got here, he hit me up. And, you know, we’ve been working ever since. He’s a great natural passer, man, the touch on the deep balls. I mean, I don’t think it gets too much better.”

Caldwell’s attitude seems to resonate with his coaches and teammates as well. He sets a standard for what it means to be a senior leader at an HBCU football program.

“This year, you know, especially this spring is just focusing on the little things that I feel like I could have done better last season. Everybody’s trying to fine-tune their game before the fall. But, you know, I’m here on a mission. Like I said, it’s a professional mindset, and so I’m trying to get myself ready for the pro level, you know. And I know taking those little steps, you know, everything every day is our is our motto. That’s how I’m going to get there. ” Caldwell says in the premiere episode of a special four-episode Spring Ball ’25 season of the ‘HBCU Hard Knocks’ style series on HBCU Gameday.

Brick x Brick, produced by Filmmaker and HBCU Gameday Partner Wali Pitt, gives fans an all-access look into the culture, grind, and brotherhood of JCSU football. As Caldwell anchors the first episode, his journey reflects the dedication, resilience, and pride found within the HBCU sports community. New episodes of Brick x Brick with JCSU Football premiere weekly on the HBCUGameday.com homepage, the Gameday app, and the HBCU Gameday YouTube Channel. Brick x Brick will also air on Fox Soul, Sundays at 7 PM as part of on HBCU Gameday’s flagship show on the Fox affiliated network.

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