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.

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The stage is set for the 2025 SIAC Championship, featuring two familiar foes — the Albany State Golden Rams (9-1, 8-0 SIAC) and the Benedict College Tigers (9-1, 7-1 SIAC). The matchup carries extra intrigue, as the teams met earlier this season in Columbia, South Carolina, where Albany State dominated in a commanding 31-3 victory.

Albany State arrives at the title game as the conference’s lone unbeaten team in SIAC play, following a 48-3 rout of archrival Fort Valley State in the 35th Fountain City Classic on November 8. The Golden Rams struck early and never looked back, holding the Wildcats to a single field goal while showcasing balance and efficiency on both sides of the ball.

Benedict’s path to the championship was far more dramatic. The Tigers advanced after a double-overtime thriller against Savannah State in Savannah, Georgia, that same day. Despite leading several statistical categories—including rushing yards and first downs—Benedict struggled to pull away in regulation, as both teams managed only one touchdown before overtime. Ultimately, the Tigers persevered to secure their return to the conference title stage.

This time its for the conference crown and NCAA Playoffs

Their earlier meeting on October 25 was a statement game for Albany State. The Rams amassed nearly 500 yards of total offense while limiting Benedict to just 217 yards, showcasing the dominance that has defined their season. This time, the rematch will be played on Albany State’s home turf at ASU Coliseum, giving the Rams a distinct advantage in front of their home crowd.

Beyond the conference title, the stakes are high. The winner will earn the SIAC’s automatic berth to the NCAA Division II playoffs. With both teams boasting just one loss—Albany State’s narrow 33-25 defeat to FCS power Florida A&M, and Benedict’s setback to Albany State—the victor could be well-positioned to host a first-round playoff game. Both programs have proven their ability to compete at a championship level, setting the stage for a hard-fought rematch that could define their seasons.

Championship Game to run through SIAC OfficeThe 2025 SIAC Championship is hosted on a member institution campus, but is marshalled through the SIAC office.  Credentialing for the media is done via the SIAC Website, with the game link being active now.  Tickets are on sale via the Albany State ticket office: PURCHASE TICKETS. or to PURCHASE PARKING

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Albany State has officially secured home-field advantage for the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) championship. It defeated Savannah State 21–18 to clinch the top seed and secure hosting duties for the title game on November 15 at the Albany State University Coliseum.

Commissioner Dr. Anthony Holloman praised both the program’s consistency and the level of HBCU football competition across the league this fall. “We’ve had a very competitive football season, full of excitement, that’s coming down to the wire,” Holloman said. “Albany State has earned the honor of competing for the conference title at home. As a powerhouse HBCU program, we value the university and its surrounding community.”

That wire-tight race now shifts to the final weekend — and the battle for who will face the Golden Rams in Albany.

The Battle for the Final Spot: Benedict vs. Kentucky State

With Albany State’s spot secured, the final HBCU conference playoff race centers on Benedict College and Kentucky State University. Two SIAC programs separated by razor-thin margins and fighting for the league’s last championship berth.

Both teams face crucial road matchups in Week 10 that ultimately determine who earns the right to compete for the conference crown. Each has shown resilience all season, but because they didn’t face each other head-to-head, the league’s tiebreaker system could come into play if both close the year with identical records.

Breaking Down the SIAC Tiebreakers

If Benedict and Kentucky State both win this weekend, the SIAC’s official tiebreaking policies will determine who advances to face Albany State. The process is detailed — and, in typical HBCU football fashion, filled with drama.

1. Head-to-head record between tied teams.
   • Not applicable this season, as Benedict and Kentucky State did not play one another.
2. Win percentage vs. all common opponents.
3. Results against common opponents based on SIAC standings.
4. Combined win percentage of all conference opponents.
5. Higher NCAA regional ranking following regular-season play.
6. If still tied, a random draw will be conducted by the Commissioner’s office.

That means fractions could decide this year’s SIAC finalist. Or even a coin flip. Underscoring how competitive the Division II HBCU football landscape has become.

Albany State Ready to Host, Whatever Happens

Albany State is ready to host the HBCU football spotlight regardless of which team emerges from the tiebreaker maze. The Golden Rams have built their championship résumé behind a strong defense and a balanced offensive attack that has delivered when it mattered most.

The SIAC title game will determine conference bragging rights and could also shape Division II playoff positioning as national postseason bids loom.

Championship Food Drive

Beyond the field, Albany State and the SIAC are teaming up to make a difference. The championship event will include a food drive benefiting the Albany Mission Rescue. Fans will be encouraged to bring three non-perishable food items on game day in exchange for $5 off general admission tickets.

ASU President Dr. Robert Scott said the partnership reflects the shared values that define HBCU culture.

“We believe in the power of community. Championship moments extend beyond the field — they’re built through unity, generosity, and care for one another.” It’s a reminder that in HBCU football, every championship moment is about more than a trophy. It’s about impact, pride, and community.

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The win moves Benedict to 7–0 overall and 6–0 in the SIAC, the last undefeated program left in HBCU football. But this wasn’t just another win — it was a survival test against one of the fastest-rising programs in Black College Football.

Edward Waters’ Rise Meets the SIAC Standard

Few HBCU programs have flipped their narrative faster than Edward Waters under head coach Brian Jenkins. The Tigers, who stunned Virginia Union earlier this season, have emerged as a true SIAC threat — fast, physical, and fearless.

Saturday’s battle with Benedict College proved it. Edward Waters tied the game twice, blocked a punt for a touchdown, and took a 27–24 lead late on a 58-yard run by Johntarrious Thomas. But when the game was on the line, Benedict showed why they’re ranked No. 24 in the AFCA Coaches Poll and climbing in the national conversation.

“I knew we were going into a hostile environment,” said head coach Ron Dickerson Jr. “We just had to stay composed, wear them down, and play four full quarters.”

That’s exactly what happened. Morgan — who finished with 90 rushing yards and two total touchdowns — carried the ball seven straight times on the final drive before catching the game-winner from Ocean. Isaiah Stephens’ interception on the ensuing Hail Mary sealed it.

The Only Unbeaten Team Left in HBCU Football

The victory keeps Benedict as the only undefeated HBCU football team at any level, a testament to how smoothly Dickerson has continued the program’s success following the departure of former head coach Chennis Berry.

In just his second year, Dickerson has built on Benedict’s defensive DNA while adding an explosive offensive identity behind Ocean’s leadership. The Tigers haven’t lost a step — they’ve sharpened their edge.

Last week’s AFCA and D2Football.com polls continue to highlight that dominance. Benedict’s No. 24 national ranking puts them alongside Virginia Union (No. 17) and Johnson C. Smith (No. 24) as HBCU programs shaping the Division II playoff picture.

It’s no longer just about the CIAA vs. SIAC bragging rights. It’s about which HBCU can withstand the gauntlet to represent in the NCAA Division II Playoffs.

Albany State Awaits — The SIAC’s Main Event

Next up: a heavyweight clash for the SIAC’s top spot. Albany State (6–1, 6–0 SIAC) rolls into Charlie W. Johnson Stadium on Saturday with a chance to snatch control of the conference — and possibly end Benedict College’s perfect run.

The Golden Rams have been on a tear since a close early loss to FCS power Florida A&M, climbing toward national recognition with votes in both major Division II polls. Behind a veteran defense and a resurgent offense, they look every bit like the team that was picked to win the SIAC preseason crown.

For Benedict, it’s simple: win, and the Tigers all but punch their ticket to another conference title game — and perhaps another Top 20 national ranking.

The HBCU Division II Power Race

The latest DII Top 25 rankings tell the story of an arms race that’s become must-watch in HBCU football.

• Virginia Union (CIAA) still sets the bar, sitting at No. 17 nationally after bouncing back from its early-season loss to Edward Waters.
• Johnson C. Smith (CIAA) is back in the Top 25, proving its ‘Brick x Brick’ turnaround under Maurice Flowers is real.
• Benedict (SIAC) remains the only unbeaten HBCU team in the country and continues to climb the polls.
• Albany State and Edward Waters are both in striking distance, lurking just outside the rankings and ready to shake things up.

Together, these programs have positioned HBCUs at the center of the Division II playoff race — not just as participants but as power brokers.

The Bigger Picture

For years, the narrative around HBCU football at the Division II level centered on tradition and pride. Now it’s about national relevance. With the CIAA and SIAC producing three Top 25 teams and two more knocking on the door, the DII HBCU football landscape is as deep and competitive as ever.

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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.

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It wasn’t flashy. It wasn’t easy. But it was Benedict football — tough, poised, and powered by one of the best defenses in the SIAC.

Lightning Start, Defensive Finish

The tone was set immediately. All-American returner Jaxon Williams — already the nation’s leader in kickoff return average — opened the game with an 88-yard touchdown return, his second of the season, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.

Fort Valley State, just 1–5 on the season, showed more fight than its record suggests. The Wildcats tied the game late in the second quarter on a 46-yard touchdown strike, forcing Benedict to lean on its discipline and defense for the rest of the day.

Benedict’s offense was limited to a season-low of 169 total yards, but its defense responded in kind — holding Fort Valley to just 78 rushing yards and 222 total yards, which was only five shy of the Wildcats’ season low.

Trick Play Tilts the Game

With the score locked at 7–7 midway through the third quarter, Dickerson’s staff dug into the playbook. On a double-reverse pass, quarterback Darius Ocean found Williams again, this time on a short screen that turned into a 29-yard touchdown after a convoy of blockers paved the way.

That was all Benedict would need. The defense clamped down — as it has all season — holding Fort Valley to four straight three-and-outs to start the second half and never allowing them past midfield.

Defense Wins Again

Veteran linebacker Israel Nwokocha led the charge with 10 tackles, 3.5 for loss, and 2.5 sacks, while defensive end Isaiah Stephens sealed the game with back-to-back plays that defined the Tigers’ grit: a 16-yard sack on third down and an interception on the next series to close it out.

Punter Kolten Ford was quietly clutch, averaging 42.2 yards on eight punts, including a booming 66-yarder and four that pinned Fort Valley inside its own 20. In a field-position game, Ford’s leg was a weapon.

“We Just Had to Be Who We Are”

After the win, head coach Ron Dickerson Jr. praised his team’s toughness but made it clear — they weren’t satisfied with simply staying unbeaten.

“We just had to calm down and play our brand of football,” Dickerson said. “Fort Valley’s a good team, but we had to stop playing their style and get back to who we are — disciplined, physical, and focused.”

That identity has carried over seamlessly in Dickerson’s second season at the helm, keeping Benedict among the most consistent programs in all of Division II.

“It’s about four quarters,” he added. “We condition for it, we prepare for it, and when the fourth quarter comes, we want to be the team still standing strong.”

Despite being the lone undefeated team in HBCU football, Benedict College continues to fly under the radar nationally — something that doesn’t seem to bother Dickerson in the least.

“Rankings don’t win games,” he said. “Our players, our coaches, and the work we put in every week — that’s what matters.”

The Road Ahead

Next up, Benedict College heads to Jacksonville to face Edward Waters (4–2, 3–1 SIAC) in what could be one of the season’s defining matchups in the SIAC and DII HBCU football.

“We’ll correct what we need to from this game,” Dickerson said, “and get ready for a great football team. The mission stays the same — go 1–0 every week.”

At 6–0, the Tigers aren’t just chasing a conference crown — they’re building a winning culture under coach Dickerson. And while the spotlight still hasn’t found them, HBCU football’s last undefeated team doesn’t need it. Their record speaks loud enough.

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Ocean takes control

Down 17–7 in the second quarter, Benedict flipped the script with 38 unanswered points. Ocean went 19-of-29 for 213 yards and four touchdowns, distributing the ball with the same calm, confident rhythm that made him a leader in his only year at JCSU. His 28-yard strike to Jaxon Williams gave Benedict its first lead, and with five seconds left in the half, he found Malachi Jones for a two-yard dagger that stretched the margin to 28–17.

Jones (5–90–1) and Williams (4–47–1) thrived as Ocean spread the ball around, while the run game balanced the attack with 157 yards, paced by Triston Morgan (12–58) and David Smith (6–54, TD). Defensively, Israel Nwokocha racked up eight tackles, including three for loss, and Cam Williams added a 33-yard interception return.

“Get the playmakers involved” — Dickerson’s blueprint

Head coach Ron Dickerson Jr. knew his offense needed a breakout after scraping together only 10 points in each of the first two games. “We just had to make some plays, doing some things simple, getting the playmakers involved, not over being zealous,” he said. The simplified plan paid off in a big way, with Ocean orchestrating drives that put the Tigers in control.

Dickerson, though, kept the focus on growth during the postgame. “We got a great quarterback room, we’re very young on offense, we got a good team. Just got to keep playing together as a we group every week.”

From Charlotte to Columbia — same steady star

HBCU fans first got to know Ocean during JCSU’s 8-0 run on season Two of Brick x Brick, the ‘HBCU Hard Knocks’ docuseries that follows the Charlotte, NC HBCU. Before that, Ocean began his career at FBS program Western Kentucky, giving him big-game experience that translated quickly when he moved to the Division II HBCU ranks. After transferring to Benedict, he continues that story in Columbia, bringing the same steady presence under center that made him a standout in Charlotte.

Dickerson’s tenure so far

When Chennis Berry left for South Carolina State after leading Benedict to SIAC glory, Dickerson Jr. stepped in to stabilize a proud program. His debut 2024 season was about weathering the transition and keeping Benedict competitive. In year two, the Tigers look like they’re turning the corner. This 3–0 start, capped by a nationally televised win over Tuskegee on ESPN, feels like the signature moment that signals the Dickerson era is starting to take shape.

What’s next

At 3–0 (2–0 SIAC), Benedict isn’t just winning — they’re climbing back into the SIAC championship conversation. Next up is a road showdown with Clark Atlanta (Sept. 27, 3 p.m.), another chance for Ocean and company to prove their rise is more than just a hot start.

If Brick x Brick showed fans the making of an HBCU star, Thursday night on ESPN showed how Ocean is writing his next chapter — and how Benedict College, under Dickerson, might be building its own docuseries-worthy season.

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Sellers, the reigning SEC Freshman of the Year, is coming off a 25-touchdown season that sparked the Gamecocks to a 9-win campaign and serious College Football Playoff buzz heading into this fall. At just 20 years old, he’s already being projected as a possible top-5 NFL Draft pick in 2026. But his journey? It didn’t start under stadium lights—it started on a practice field with a South Carolina legend from the HBCU ranks.

HBCU Roots, SEC Results

Ramon Robinson is one of South Carolina’s most decorated quarterbacks. A three-sport phenom from Anderson, SC, Robinson made history as the first Black quarterback to start at T.L. Hanna High School, where he led the state in passing as a senior. He later etched his name into the Benedict College record books, still holding the all-time marks for passing yards and total offense.

After his time at Benedict, Robinson became the first player from the school to sign a professional football contract, joining the CFL’s Saskatchewan Roughriders in 1999. His career spanned nearly a decade across the CFL and arena football before injuries forced his retirement.

But that was only the beginning of his real impact.

2011 Robinson founded RR Elite QB Training, which later evolved into Elite Position Training (EPT), a nonprofit powerhouse for football development and mentorship in the Southeast. The same year, he started coaching a young LaNorris Sellers.

“He was a sponge to everything I was delivering,” Robinson said in an interview with WYFF4, an NBC affiliate out of Greenville, SC.

From Underrated to Unstoppable

Sellers was far from a blue-chip recruit. Despite leading South Florence to a 29-game win streak and a state title, most major recruiting outlets tagged him a 3-star prospect.

Overlooked? Sure. But Robinson made sure that the underdog mentality stuck.

“I make sure he understands and continues to understand, ‘you were overlooked, you’re still overlooked. Keep that chip on your shoulder,” Robinson told WYFF4. “He uses that energy to build on what he’s doing right now. That’s what his thing was, ‘I want to go to South Carolina, I want to build my own legacy.'”

And it’s working.

Last season, Sellers dazzled with arm talent, poise, and next-level athleticism. He’s working with Robinson on throwing with even more anticipation this offseason—fine-tuning what could become a Heisman-level skillset. And with a loaded receiver room, a strong O-line, and sky-high expectations in Columbia, the Gamecocks might just shock the college football world this year.

Bigger Than Ball

What makes this story even more powerful? Robinson’s work doesn’t end with Sellers.

Over the last 15 years, Robinson and his EPT team—which includes standout coaches like Bobby McGowens (WR), ChaChi Sullivan (DB), and Rashaad Jackson (DL)—have helped over 100 players earn college scholarships. Seven QBs from his 2018 class alone signed with programs like Clemson, Temple, and Coastal Carolina.

In 2021, Robinson was named CEO of The QB Legacy, a national coalition of elite QB trainers. He also serves as commissioner of the Post-Grad Football League (PGFL), continuing to create pathways for players who need a second chance to shine.

His mission? Develop high-character athletes on the field, and better men off it.

Legacy in Motion

This July, Robinson returns home to host a youth football camp at the Anderson Rec Center, where he’ll pour into the next wave of young talent, just like he did with Sellers.

From Benedict College to the SEC spotlight, the connection between HBCUs and high-level football success is alive and well. Ramon Robinson proves that you don’t need a Power Five pedigree to change the game—you just need passion, purpose, and patience.

And if LaNorris Sellers keeps rising the way he’s expected to? That HBCU legacy will likely be front and center on NFL Draft night.

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On June 11, 2025, Benedict College announced Dr. Brendan L. Johnson as the new Director of Bands. A move that signals a push to restore the BCBOD to elite status. Not just among Division II HBCUs, but on the national stage.

“I am deeply honored and humbled to join the Benedict College family,” Johnson said. “This institution has a rich tradition of academic excellence, cultural pride, and musical heritage. I’m excited to build upon that legacy and elevate our band program to new heights.”

A Legacy to Uphold… and Rebuild

Not long ago, the BCBOD was the gold standard in Division II. Back in 2021, ESPN’s The Undefeated ranked Benedict the No. 1 HBCU Division II marching band two months in a row, topping categories like musicality, drum majors, drill design, and percussion.

“It is indeed an honor to once again be voted the No. 1 HBCU Division II marching band in the country. We accept and wear this title as a badge of honor,” former Director of Bands H. Wade Johnson said at the time. “Each day, we strive to be better and consistent as we continue to build our musical legacy at Benedict College.”

But as the rankings make clear, the HBCU band world doesn’t give passes for past glory. The same rigorous panel of current and former SWAC, MEAC, CIAA, and DII directors that applauded Benedict in 2021 had dropped them entirely from the top 10 by 2024. One flat show, one slip in execution, and the rankings shift. Staying on top takes relentless excellence.

The Passing of a Baton (Literally)

Dr. Brendan Johnson steps into massive shoes. His predecessor, H. Wade Johnson, wasn’t just a band director—he was an icon. A South Carolina State University graduate with advanced degrees from VanderCook College of Music. Wade Johnson combined music education with star-level performance credentials. He shared stages with legends like Fred Wesley, Maceo Parker, the late Dizzy Gillespie, the Marsalis family, and even The Temptations.

Oh, and for those who didn’t know—Wade Johnson is famously able to play two trumpets at once. Yeah. He’s that guy.

The New Era: Dr. Brendan L. Johnson

Benedict’s leadership went nationwide for this hire, ultimately landing a band director whose resume screams builder.

At Darlington High School, Dr. Johnson didn’t just maintain the program—he tripled it, growing from 75 to 225 members and making it one of South Carolina’s largest and most dynamic high school bands.

His academic pedigree matches the ambition. A proud dual graduate of Bethune-Cookman University (another HBCU powerhouse). Johnson holds degrees in Music Education and Liberal Studies, plus a Master’s in Education from Anderson University and a Doctorate from the University of Southern Mississippi.

And, yes, his leadership skills extend beyond the podium. While at Bethune-Cookman, he made history as the third-ever Mr. Bethune-Cookman University, a title that speaks volumes about his blend of charisma, discipline, and presence.

Bigger Vision, Bolder Moves

Johnson isn’t shy about what comes next.

“My vision for the Benedict band is to be a beacon of excellence, known for musical artistry, powerful performances, and strong academic achievement,” he said. “I intend to establish Benedict as one of the premier band programs in the nation by expanding our recruitment footprint regionally and nationally.”

That’s not just talk. Johnson plans to partner with admissions, alumni, and music educators nationwide to attract top talent. Students who can hold their own both on the field and in the classroom.

Benedict President Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis echoed that sentiment: “His passion for music education, commitment to student success, and visionary leadership embody the distinctive spirit of the BEST of BC. We look forward to seeing our Band of Distinction flourish under his guidance and continue to set the standard for excellence, creativity, and Tiger Pride on and off the field.”

As Dr. Johnson takes the helm, the Benedict College Band of Distinction isn’t just looking for a comeback. They’re aiming to reclaim their crown—and redefine what a Division II powerhouse looks and sounds like.

The Tiger drumline’s about to hit different. Believe that.

The post Top HBCU Band Eyes Major Comeback with New Director appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

He made his name at Xavier University of Louisiana, an NAIA HBCU, where he became the all-time winningest coach in men’s basketball history. In 2024, the NAIA school honored him with induction into its Hall of Fame.

A Proven Leader in HBCU Athletics

“We’re excited to welcome such a talented coach with a rich history of success to lead the Benedict Tigers,” said Willie Washington, Director of Athletics at Benedict College.

“Coach Jackson is a Hall of Fame Coach who has a proven track record and possesses the experience, talent, and determination to advance our basketball team to the next level… Coach Jackson has an unwavering commitment to helping players develop the discipline required to succeed academically and achieve both their professional and personal goals.”

Over 17 seasons at Xavier, Jackson built a winning legacy. His teams delivered 11 20-win seasons and captured five Gulf Coast Athletic Conference regular-season titles. They won three straight from 2011 to 2014 and reached the NAIA national tournament 10 times. He led the program to nationals in each of his final six years.

A New Chapter for the Tigers

Before coming to Benedict, Jackson served as head coach and deputy athletic director at Talladega College. Under his leadership, the team achieved a 54-33 record over three seasons. Earning wins against NCAA Division I and SIAC teams.

“I’m truly blessed and excited to join Benedict College,” Jackson said. “This is a special place with a proud legacy. I’m ready to get to work. My goal is to build a program that our students, alumni, and the entire Benedict family can be proud of. We’re going to compete, grow as men, and win the right way—together.”

HBCU Legacy and Vision

Dannton Jackson’s arrival marks more than just a coaching change. His deep roots in HBCU athletics and consistent record of success make him the right leader to elevate Benedict College’s basketball program.

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A central theme within the commercial are dancers from Benedict College, a historically Black college that holds personal significance for Wilson. Their electrifying performance sets the tone, capturing the rhythm, pride, and creativity that define the HBCU experience. Each move reflects the culture that shaped Wilson both on and off the court.

A deeply personal moment in the commercial features Roscoe Wilson, A’Ja’s father, who once starred on the hardwood for Benedict College. His presence symbolizes a generational legacy rooted in HBCU athletics, reinforcing the powerful connection between family, community, and sports.

The ad not only showcases A’Ja Wilson’s basketball prowess but also serves as the official launch campaign for the A’One, her highly anticipated signature shoe with Nike. With bold visuals and a message of empowerment, the commercial connects Wilson’s rise in the WNBA with her roots in Columbia and the HBCU community.

Malia Obama’s direction gives the commercial cinematic depth and cultural resonance. Her creative vision amplifies the voices and stories often overlooked in mainstream sports marketing, placing HBCUs front and center.

The A’One campaign is more than a product launch—it’s a celebration of Black excellence, HBCU culture, and the community that helped raise a champion. For more stories at the intersection of sports and HBCU life, stay locked in with HBCU Gameday.

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Maddox struggled out of the gate during his first of seven seasons at Benedict. In the 2018-19 season Benedict finished with a 4-24 overall record. The following season the Tigers nearly reached the 500 mark going 14-16 overall. In the shortened COVID season of 2020-21 Benedict only played in 10 games going 9-1. The following three seasons would be the high water mark for Maddox winning 22, 22 and 23 games in those season respectively.

But this past season ended much like the first season with Benedict finishing 6-22 overall. The Tigers were 6-14 in the SIAC, losing all of its out of conference games.

Maddox came to Benedict after serving as head coach at Florida Memorial University for three seasons. The major achievement on his resume prior to coming to Benedict was being an assistant at Mountain State University where he helped lead the Cougars to the 2003-04 NAIA Division I national championship.

As a player Maddox attended Edward Waters College where he averaged 14 points and six rebounds before transferring after two seasons. He finished his career at Mountain State.

Artis Maddox replaced Fred Watson who left Benedict for Miles College after the 2017-18 season. Maddox lost the SIAC Championship game in 2023, and was knocked out of the tournament early in 2024 but still received an at-large bid to the NCAA playoffs. The Benedict men last won an SIAC Championship in the 2014-15 season under Watson.

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SIAC coaches and sports information directors voted on the players selected for each team as well as the league’s Player of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, Newcomer of the Year, Freshman of the Year and Coach of the Year.

Miles College guard Alvin Miles was named the SIAC Player of the Year while Golden Bears head coach Fred Watson earned Coach of the Year honors. Fort Valley State forward Hassane Diallo earned Defensive Player of the Year honors, Lane guard Elijah Greer Dawson received Newcomer of the Year, Edward Waters forward Myles Hosten notched Freshman of the Year honors while Morehouse guard Cedric Taylor III earned Elite 16 honors.

Miles, a native of Memphis, Tenn., was one of the SIAC’s top 10 scorers this season, averaging 15.9 points per game (10th in the conference). He became the first player in program to earn the league’s top player award since Avery Brown accomplished the feat in 2020. Miles was the only SIAC player this season to score 400 points, grab 100 rebounds and notch 100 assists. He finished with double-figure production in 22 of the Golden Bears’ 26 contests while recording seven games of 20 or more points.

Diallo registered 177 rebounds with 120 coming on the defensive side of the ball in 28 games this season. He also finished second in the league in blocked shots (42) while registering 22 steals and averaging 10.5 points per contest.

Dawson averaged 16.8 points while shooting 44.4% from the field, dishing 3.0 assists and connecting on 76.9% from the free throw line per game in 18 contests this season. Beyond his scoring, Dawson averaged 4.1 rebounds per game while tallying a total of 39 steals and six blocks on defense.

Hosten averaged 8.0 points while shooting 38.8% from the floor and notched 4.8 rebounds in 13 games this season.

Watson registered his third Coach of the Year honors at Miles and the ninth of his career. He led Miles to a SIAC-best 23-3 mark that includes a 19-1 record in conference play and a perfect 12-0 mark at home, the Golden Bears best record inside Knox-Windham Gymnasium in program history.

Player of the Year

Alvin Miles

Defensive Player of the Year

Hassane Diallo

Newcomer of the Year

Elijah Greer Dawson

Freshman of the Year

Coach of the Year

Myles Hosten

The complete listing of the SIAC all-conference selections and individual awards winners can be found below.

All-SIAC First Team

• Shakur Poteat, Albany State
• Alvin Miles, Miles
• Walter Peggs, Jr., Miles
• Cedric Taylor III, Morehouse
• Lavar Miller Jr., Kentucky State

All-SIAC Second Team

• Kevin Sesberry, Tuskegee
• Jalen Williams, Clark Atlanta
• Prince Davies III, Edward Waters
• Kusamae Draper, Tuskegee
• Blaise Wallace, Albany State

All-SIAC Third Team

• Steven Lyles, Spring Hill
• Shemani Fuller, Clark Atlanta
• Corey Trotter, Miles
• Aziel Blackwell, Kentucky State
• Khalil Genwright, LeMoyne-Owen

All-SIAC Freshman Team

• Myles Hosten, Edward Waters
• Rocco Lamuno, Spring Hill
• Abdoul Sacko, LeMoyne-Owen
• Brandon Peters, Morehouse
• Christian Gary, Albany State

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COLUMBIA, S.C. – Malaqhi Jones scored the game-winning touchdown on an eight-yard pass from Charles “Tre” Simmons with no time left on the clock as the Benedict College Tigers won their first HBCU football game of the season with a 31-28 victory over Edward Waters on Thursday night in an ESPN 2 nationally televised game.

 
After an Edward Waters punt, the Tigers took over from their own 20-yard line with just 35 seconds left in the game. Simmons threw a 19-yard pass to Shantarius Williams, then a 14-yard pass to Jalen Leary, before connecting with Jones for a 39-yard pass to the 8-yard line. Benedict had to spike the ball to stop the clock with four seconds left.
 
Rather than attempt a field goal and tie the game, head coach Ron Dickerson Jr. made the decision to go for a touchdown and try to win the ESPN 2 primetime HBCU football matchup.

 
“I looked at those kids and they told me, ‘Coach, you can count on me. We know you believe in us, and we believe in you.’ So I just went with it, and it worked out. That’s a group of young men that believed in each other, and great things happened.”

Jones beat his defender to the left corner of the end zone and caught the game-winning pass. Benedict improves to 1-2 on the season, and 1-1 in the SIAC. Edward Waters falls to 1-3 overall and 1-1 in the SIAC. Jones finished the game with four receptions for 88 yards and caught three touchdowns.

The Benedict College Tigers built a 23-7 first half lead, but then saw Edward Waters rally to take a 28-25 lead in the third quarter on ESPN.

Benedict took an early 14-0 lead on a pair of quick scores. Jaxon Williams returned the game’s opening kickoff 75 yards, then on the next play, Simmons completed a 16-yard pass to Troy Hillman for a touchdown, giving the Tigers a 7-0 lead just six seconds into the contest. Edward Waters fumbled on the first play after the ensuing kickoff, and Omari Terry recovered the ball. On the next play, Simmons completed a 21-yard touchdown pass to Jones for a 21-yard touchdown pass, putting Benedict up 14-0 with less than a minute into ESPN showdown.

After Israel Nwokocha tackled EWU’s Greg Marsh in the end zone for a safety to give Benedict a 16-7 lead, Benedict took the ensuing free kick and drove for another touchdown, with Simmons and Jones connecting again for a 20-yard touchdown. That gave Benedict a 23-7 lead with six minutes still left in the first quarter.

Edward Waters drove the field and scored on a 22-yard pass. On the extra point try, Nwokocha blocked the kick, and James “Trey” Caver returned it 90 yards for a two-point score, making it 25-13.

Edward Waters cut the lead to 25-20 before the half. Edward Waters then took the opening kickoff of the second half and drove 69 yards on 13 yards that ate up more than seven minutes off the clock. Edward Waters capped off the drive with an eight-yard touchdown run, and followed with a successful two-point conversion pass to take a 28-25 lead. Edward Waters converted on three third-down plays on the drive, including a 12-yard pass on third-and-eight.

Markell Davis had eight tackles to lead the Benedict defense, and had a forced fumble. Nwokocha had seven tackles, one tackle for loss and the blocked kick.

The Benedict College Tigers are on the road next week, traveling to Atlanta for another HBCU football to take on Morehouse College at 1 p.m.

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INDIANAPOLIS — For the 11^th time in the last 13 years, the Benedict College baseball team has been named the NCAA statistical champion for stolen bases per game. The NCAA recently announced the statistical champions for the 2024 season. Columbia, South Carolina HBCU Benedict College stole 160 bases in 39 games, for an average of 4.10 stolen bases per game.
 
Under head coach Selwyn Young, the Tigers have stolen 3,075 bases during his 16 seasons, an average of more than 192 per season.
 
In 2024, the Tigers had seven HBCU baseball players reach double figures in stolen bases, led by Jamell Mitchell Jr., who had 34 total stolen bases. His 0.89 stolen bases per game ranked fourth in Division II last season and led the SIAC. Justin Murray finished with 19 stolen bases out of 21 attempts.
 
The Tigers went 14-25 during the 2024 season.
 
The 2025 season will open on Feb. 15 with a SIAC doubleheader against Miles College. Miles finished third in the nation in stolen bases per game, while another SIAC school — Savannah State — was second.

About Benedict College baseball coach Selwyn Young

Selwyn Young begins his 15th season as head baseball coach for the Benedict Tigers.

He is Benedict’s all-time winningest baseball coach with 251 wins His record over eight seasons is 251-226 for a .526 winning percentage. He won his 100th game in 2013 and became a member of the American Baseball Coaches Association Century Club. He won his 200^th game in 2017 and was honored by the Benedict Booster Club with their Annual Outstanding Achievement Award.

He built the baseball field that the Tigers play on, competing their 5th year playing there, and has now added a brand new completed construction of an outfield wall, with school colors built, financed and donated by Coach Young.

No school in NCAA history has put up the stolen base numbers that Benedict College has under Young. During his 10 years with the Tigers, they have stolen  a total of 2,147 bases. The South Carolina HBCU holds the top five spots in the NCAA Division II record book for season stolen bases. They all took place during a 5-year period from 2009-2013 when the Tigers stole 1,371 bases. The Tigers swiped 334 bases in 403 attempts over 41 games during the 2013 season to rank No. 1 in NCAA Div. 2 history. During the 2022 season, Benedict once again led the NCAA in stolen bases with 272. Bradon O’Connor broke the NCAA single season record for stolen bases with 97.

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Playing at Benedict in the early 1970s, he was one of the best-known centers throughout the SIAC and the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). He ranked eighth in the nation in rebounding as a sophomore, averaging an astounding 22.5 rebounds per game, and had a game-high 35 in one game. He was a three-time selection to the all-SIAC, all-NAIA teams, and was a Small College All-American after his sophomore season.

A’ja Wilson’s father also played for Big Wilt’s Smalls Paradise team in the famed Rucker Basketball League in New York, where he played with and against some of the biggest names in basketball — Nate “Tiny” Archibald, Julius “Dr. J” Erving, John Shumate, Connie Hawkins, Tommy Boswell, Charlie Criss, Henry Bibby, Swen Nader, Kevin Joyce, Alex English and many others.

Roscoe Wilson went on to have a stellar overseas career after a short stint with the New York Nets of the ABA, eventually settling into coaching. He later served as head coach at Morris College and Benedict College.

It would have been great to see her at Benedict or any HBCU, but A’ja Wilson averaged 24.7 points, 13.9 rebounds, and 4.3 blocks a game throughout her high school career at Heathwood Hall Episcopal and committed to Dawn Staley and South Carolina. And the rest is history. 

Fifty years after Roscoe Wilson tipped off his professional career, A’Ja Wilson has not only followed in her father’s footsteps – she’s more than made her own.  

“He got me to where I am now. And he’s going to get me to where I would like to be as well,” Wilson said in a 2016 interview. “But without him putting that basketball in my hand, there would be no A’ja Wilson.”

The center for the Las Vegas Ace is putting up prime Shaq numbers: She’s averaging roughly 28 points, 12.5 rebounds and nearly three blocks per game through the first seven games of the WNBA season.

Wilson has been a star since she arrived in the WNBA back in 2018, and she’s apparently just hitting her stride. 

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ATLANTA, Ga. — HBCU Benedict College long-time Director of Athletics Willie Washington will be enshrined in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) Hall of Fame on July 10 at the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta, in conjunction with the SIAC Football Media Day.

Washington has guided Benedict College athletics for 36 years, including 10 years in a dual role of head men’s basketball coach and athletic director. During his illustrious HBCU career, Benedict College has won the prestigious SIAC Commissioner’s Cup, presented to the top athletic men’s and women’s program in the conference, more than any other school in the league. Benedict College swept both the men’s and women’s trophies four times in school history. All told, Benedict has won 10 of the 18 trophies since the inception of the Commissioner’s Cup award in 2014, including winning the men’s trophy for the 2023-24 school year.

During his tenure, the South Carolina HBCU expanded its athletic program from eight to 14 sports, including the return of football, and saw Benedict rejoin the SIAC after years of success in the NAIA’s Eastern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. He was named the NAIA Southeast Region Athletic Director of the Year in 1999.

During his long HBCU career, Benedict teams have captured 50 SIAC championships — eight in women’s basketball, six in women’s track and field, six in men’s tennis, five in men’s basketball, five in men’s cross country, five in women’s tennis, four in men’s track and field, four in cheerleading, three in women’s cross country, two in football, one in softball, and one in men’s golf.

“Your contributions to the success of Benedict College Athletics for over 30 years are legendary,” wrote SIAC Commissioner Anthony Holloman in a congratulatory letter. “For most people, that would have been enough, however, I want to commend you for your work as a mentor, public servant and role model for thousands of young men.”

“I could not be more proud of Coach Willie Washington on this well-deserved acknowledgment of his distinguished career as a mentor, coach, and an athletic administrator.  Induction to the Hall of Fame is a fitting tribute to his nearly 40-year career,” said Benedict College President and CEO Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis.

“In addition to a proven record of cultivating and developing winning athletic programs, I have found him to be a leader who is committed to excellence,” wrote Dr. David H. Swinton, President Emeritus of Benedict College, in his nomination letter of recommendation. “He also inspires greatness in those who work with him, and most importantly, in the student-athletes who are part of the athletic program at Benedict College.”

More than anything else, Mr. Washington is someone with great integrity and character,” wrote Dr. Derrick Johnson, Associate Dean of Athletics at Fresno (Calif.) City College, and a former Benedict coach and athletic administrator. “As a profound leader, he has always been able to get the best from his staff and colleagues. I have worked with Mr. Washington on several projects, and I have witnessed his professional approach on humanitarian issues and injustices that impact the overall students at the College. I have witnessed Coach Washington utilize his platform to combat hunger, homelessness, violence, and social injustices that have impacted the community in Columbia, S.C.”

“Coach Washington has always worked very hard to inspire greatness in those who work with him, and most importantly, in the student-athletes who are part of the athletic program at Benedict College. Coach Washington has been a pillar of leadership and excellence within the Benedict College athletic community,” wrote Verna C. Mayers-Fakunle, CEO of Inspired Strategies, LLC, who said Mr. Washington has been an “integral part of my life as an employer, mentor, colleague, and friend for over twenty-six years.”

Willie Washington arrived on the campus of Benedict College in 1988 as the head men’s basketball coach and athletic director and took the Tigers to immediate success. He guided the Tigers to the NAIA national tournament four times, nine conference championships, and eight consecutive EIAC Coach of the Year Awards. During his tenure as basketball coach, his teams never had a losing season. The Benedict athletic program won six EIAC Commissioner Cups, the hallmark of excellence for the school with the best athletic program during its stay in the EIAC.

In addition to the athletic success of the Benedict teams under Washington’s leadership, he also focuses on the overall well-being of the student-athletes. Under Washington’s leadership, the overall grade point average of the entire student-athlete population has increased to over a 3.0 on a consistent basis, and Benedict had its first two Academic All-Americans in 2015, a third in 2017, and another in 2023. He has also been instrumental in Benedict receiving grants from the NCAA to help student-athletes complete their degrees, as well as a Choices Grant to help with alcohol education. In 2020, he spearheaded two successful NCAA grant applications to add an Academic Counselor and Assistant Track & Field Coach to the athletic staff. In 2010, the athletic department won the NCAA Division II National Community Engagement Award of ExcIellence.

Mr. Washington has served, or currently serves, on a number of athletic committees, boards and foundations. Washington served on the NCAA Division II Men’s Basketball Committee, and is a former member of the NCAA Division II Management Council, Chairman of the SIAC Athletic Directors Committee, the NCAA Honors Committee, and the NCAA Diversity and Inclusion Committee. In recognition to his dedicated service in the advancement of youth in his community, the S.C. State Conference of the NAACP awarded Mr. Washington the Presidential Citation Civic Leadership Award in 2012. Washington also serves as the Chairman of the Board of the Laurinburg Institute, a historic African American preparatory school in Laurinburg, North Carolina.

In addition to the SIAC Hall of Fame, Willie Washington has previously been inducted into the Laurinburg Hall of Fame in 2016, and the Finney Hall of Fame by the Renaissance Foundation in 2018. He is also a member of the Allen University Athletic Hall of Fame, the Benedict College Athletic Hall of Fame, and the EIAC Hall of Fame.

He is a 1974 graduate of HBCU Tougaloo College, where he was a member of the men’s basketball team, and recently celebrated his golden anniversary. He received his undergraduate degree in Health, Physical Education and Recreation, and earned a Master’s Degree in Health and Physical Education from Jackson State University.

The SIAC Hall of Fame ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. on July 10 in the College Football Hall of Fame. The SIAC Hall of Fame is steeped in HBCU tradition with the likes of NFL Hall of Famers Shannon Sharpe and John Stallworth, Olympic gold medalist Alice Coachman, and Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Coach John Chaney, who have been honored in previous classes. He becomes the second Benedict representative in the SIAC Hall of Fame, joining Benedict College graduate and former chair of the United State Olympic Committee Dr. Leroy Walker, whom Washington considers a mentor.

Along with Willie Washington, the 2024 SIAC Hall of Fame class includes: Kimberly Duggar (Fort Valley State), Frank Walker (Tuskegee), Harold Hubbard (Savannah State), Jacoby Jones (Lane), Mabel Sanders (Savannah State), and William King (Tuskegee).

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COLUMBIA, S.C. – William Partlow is one of 10 of the newest inductees into the prestigious South Carolina Athletic Hall of Fame. Primarily recognized as a ground-breaking high school basketball coach, Partlow also served as head basketball coach and Athletic Director at South Carolina HBCU Benedict College for seven years.

“It was a great time at Benedict, because they had all those buildings going up, and they had a marvelous president back then in Ben Payton,” Partlow said during Monday’s press conference prior to the induction banquet at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center.

After eight successful years as head basketball coach at Booker T. Washington High School, where he won five state championships, he was recruited to come to Benedict College as head men’s basketball coach and athletic director at the Columbia, SC HBCU.

Booker T. Washington was playing its rival C.A. Johnson at the University of South Carolina’s large Carolina Coliseum, as a lead-up to another big HBCU rivalry basketball game between Benedict and Allen. Payton watched Partlow’s team and was impressed.

“He was making a change in coaches, so he liked the system we were running and he called me over for an interview, and we reached a deal,” Partlow said.

“I’d say I had moderate success,” Partlow said. “First of all, we didn’t have a gym for two years. They tore the old gym down and opened up the new one in 1974, I believe. But I had some good years there. I beat South Carolina State twice and lost to them by one point the last time we played them. We were competitive.”

He also remembers having the nation’s top rebounder in Roscoe Wilson, a Benedict College Athletic Hall of Fame member, who also later coached the Tigers.

“Roscoe Wilson, A’ja’s daddy I call him now, played for me for four years. We were NAIA, and he led the nation in rebounding. I said, ‘Roscoe, why do you go to the boards so hard?’ He said, ‘Coach, you’ve got all those New York boys down here, and I wouldn’t be on the floor if I didn’t go get the ball.’ But Benedict was a good experience, and it prepared me for San Francisco because I was Athletic Director and basketball coach there.”

William Partlow left his post at the HBCU to become the first African-American athletic director at San Francisco State, where he served for 18 years before retiring.

During his successful high school coaching career, Partlow is known for coaching players who later went on to be very successful coaches. The long list includes South Carolina legendary high school coach George Glymph, and Carl Williams, who won three high school championships at three different schools. At San Francisco State, he hired two young football coaches who later went on to great success in the NFL — Andy Reid, who has won three Super Bowls, and Mike Holmgren, who won one Super Bowl with the Green Bay Packers.

William Partlow attributes much of his success as a coach and administrator to his organizational skills. He earned his undergraduate degree in mathematics from another HBCU, Johnson C. Smith, so structure and organization were important.

He was offered his first job at C.A. Johnson to be a math teacher. Coaching basketball was secondary. After several good years at C.A. Johnson, he was offered the job at Booker T. Washington. Against the advice of friends and co-workers, he took the job.

“The best move I ever made was to take the job at Booker T. Washington High School. I was advised not to take the job by my friends and co-workers at C.A. Johnson High School, where I was working then, because they said those kids were so tough and unruly, you won’t be able to handle them. But I said, ‘No, that background pretty much is like my background, coming from a single-parent home.’ So I went over there, where we sat down, and decided that my players would go to all their classes, you would be there on time, they would respect their teachers, and respect their fellow students and the administration. They adhered. We went on in my first year and won the first state championship in boys’ basketball at Booker T. Washington in the 44-year history of the school. I had 12 seniors on that team. We had George Glymph, who was a starter. We were able to send all 12 of them to college, and nine graduated. Our teams in the future did the same thing, we won state championships in five of the next eight years. And we had kids playing college basketball all across the country. I’m very, very happy I took that job.”

After a lifetime of impacting the lives of young people, the now 90-year-old William Partlow is honored to be a member of the South Carolina Athletic Hall of Fame.

“It’s been a beautiful ride, and this induction is icing on the cake.”

For more information on the South Carolina Athletic Hall of Fame, and the Class of 2024, visit their website.

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PHOENIX — Benedict College senior forward Tim Moore has been selected as one of 16 national participants in the 2024 State Farm Dark Horse Dunker competition.

Intersport, producers of the State Farm College Slam Dunk & 3-Point Championships, announced details for the 2024 State Farm Dark Horse Dunker competition, a social media fan voting competition featuring 16 of the nation’s top under-the-radar players from all levels of college basketball. This four-week competition will culminate with the winner having the chance to compete in the King’s Hawaiian College Slam Dunk Championship on April 4 in Phoenix.
 
Fans will determine the winner by voting on the event’s Twitter (@CollegeSlam) and Instagram (@College_Slam) channels in a bracket-style competition. The Twitter voting window for each round will run for the duration of each round and the Instagram voting window for each round will run for the final 24 hours each week. First-round voting begins today at Noon CT and runs through Friday at Noon CT. The athlete with the most votes in each matchup will move on to the next round. The final round will take place March 20-24.

 
The schedule for each voting round will go as follows:
•Round One: March 4 at Noon CT through March 8 at Noon CT (16 Players)
•Quarterfinals: March 11 at Noon CT through March 15 at Noon CT (8 Players)
•Semifinals: March 18 at Noon CT through March 22 at Noon CT (4 Players)
•Finals: March 25 at Noon CT through March 29 at Noon CT (2 Players)
 
The player that ultimately receives the most votes in the final round will be selected to compete in the State Farm College Slam Dunk & 3-Point Championships, an event featuring some of the best college dunkers and 3-point shooters in the country. The 2024 State Farm College Slam Dunk & 3-Point Championships will air live on ESPN during college championship weekend in Phoenix at 6 p.m. MST on April 4.
 
Moore was named first-team All-SIAC after averaging 15.5 points per game, which ranks seventh in the SIAC. He also led the SIAC in field goal percentage at 58.6 percent and ranked 13th in rebounding at 6.2 rebounds per game.

The following are the 16 Dark Horse Dunkers competing in the contest for their chance to showcase their talents in the State Farm College Slam Dunk & 3-Point Championships:
 
Christian Adams, LeTourneau
Akol Arop, Florida Southern
Andre Ball, Cal State Dominguez Hills
Ryan Davis, Ripon College
Collen Gurley, Mount Union
Jermaine Hall, Jr., California (PA)
Brendon Hamilton, Westfield State
David McCullough, Florida Tech
Tim Moore, Benedict
Ikenna Okeke, Missouri S&T
Jake O’Neil, College of Idaho
JJ Ramey, University of the Cumberlands
Ali Sabet, Loras
Elijah Simmons, Ottawa University Arizona
Kendrick Tchoua, Indianapolis
Malik Whitaker, Fort Lewis
 
Three players who won the State Farm Dark Horse Dunker competition have gone on to win the Slam Dunk Championship, including Marcus Lewis (Eastern Kentucky) in 2014, James Justice (Martin Methodist College) in 2012, and Jacob Tucker (Illinois College) in 2011.
 
For more information about the State Farm College Slam Dunk & 3-Point Championships follow @CollegeSLAM on Twitter and @College_Slam on Instagram.

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The day had everything you want from your rival games as the women brought the drama with Allen’s 65-53 come-from-behind win over Benedict and the men allowed the home crowd to brag as Benedict College defeated Allen University 81-62. 

The women’s game was close throughout with Benedict (3-15, 1-10) leading at the half 30-27. Allen (5-10, 2-8) took a 48-46 lead with 7:38 left in the fourth quarter after a Victoria Zidor steal and score off of an errant Benedict Collegeinbound pass, followed by a Kashay Hankerson fastbreak layup. The Yellow Jackets were able to get separation down the stretch and ended with a dagger three as time was about to expire. 

It was pure jubilation at the final buzzer as the Yellow Jackets got a much-needed win according to first-year head coach LaToya Jones. 

“Regardless of this being a rivalry game, we had been seeking a win for a long time,” she said. “We hadn’t experienced a win since before Thanksgiving and we had been working hard and coming close, working hard and coming close. I think this win really just solidified our confidence. We kept our confidence and we didn’t come down to what our record said.”

“Battle for Taylor Street:” Benedict vs Allen Photo Gallery

“This means a lot because this was a team win, this was a grit win against a great team, a team with a rich history of championships,” Jones added.“It was a rivalry so I knew it was going to be tight, but I knew that if we kept our heads and we stayed in the fight, we were going to be ok.” 

Nari Coe led the way for Allen University with 19 points and five rebounds, followed by Hankerson with 13 points and two rebounds. 

Alaysia Nash was the leading scorer for Benedict College, finishing with 13 points and four rebounds. Madison Golden was next with 10 points and eight rebounds. 

The men’s game was decided early as the Benedict Tigers (15-2, 9-2) jumped out to an early 16-9 lead and never looked back. Allen (9-9, 5-6) made a 20-9 run in the third quarter to cut the lead to 13, but that was as close as they would come as the Tigers closed it out. 

Asanti Prince led the Tigers in scoring with 25 points, followed by Time Moore with 14. Malachi Moore posted a double with 11 points and 13 rebounds. Gob Gabrial was the final Tiger in double digits with 11 points. 

For Allen, Jordan Edmond was the high-point man with 25, followed by G’Shan Aldridge with 12. 

The Tigers have been playing with heavy hearts in January after the passing of JV player Garry Cappers II, affectionately known as Deuce. Benedict has dedicated this season to him and is currently on a two-game winning streak after recording the only two losses of the season. Head coach Artis Maddox credited his team for their resiliency as well as the community for their support. It’s one of the best starts in the last 25 years and Maddox said he’s pleased with what they’ve accomplished so far. 

“I’m very happy, I’m very pleased with where we are. If somebody had told me 17 games in, we would be 15-2, I’dda took that before the season started,” he said. “We’re right where we need to be and now we just have to take it one game at a time and try to go 1-0 each game.”

Round two of The Battle For Taylor Street will be Saturday, Feb. 17 at 1 and 3 p.m. 

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Garry Capers II, affectionately known as Deuce, passed away right before the Tigers were preparing for their game against Clark Atlanta.
Deuce was a member of the Benedict College JV team and according to Tiger assistant coach Phillip Jackson, had a significant impact on the team as just a sophomore.

“We have two guys that’s actually on our roster who were on our JV roster and [Duece] was one of those kids that was up next,” he said. “Our JV team conditions with us, they do individual workouts with us, so he meant a lot to a lot of guys.”

The Tiger community honored Duece with a balloon release on MLK Day before joining his loved ones at his funeral the following Sunday.

Jackson said Deuce was the type of player that could motivate the team without saying a word.

“He let his game speak for itself. He was a very, very good young man, very coachable,” Jackson said. “Very humble, very soft spoken. He would go out there and give you everything that he had.”

Jackson added that Deuce was a planner and a doer.
“He was a young man, but at this particular stage in his life, he just wanted to be on the varsity team. He was making strides to do that and like i said, he was up next.”

The Tigers hit a slight skid as they played with heavy hearts, losing a tough one to Clark Atlanta in overtime and one to Morehouse. They bounced back against Albany State and head into the crosstown rivalry game against Allen with some momentum.

Allen’s men’s team comes to the contest with a 9-8 record and have won two of its last three. The game will be at HRC Arena on Benedict’s campus at 3 p.m.

On the women’s side, Allen is 4-10 on the year and looking to end its seven-game losing streak on Saturday. They face a Benedict team that is 3-14 on the year and looking to end a two-game losing streak of its own. Tip-off for that contest will be at 1 p.m

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“Tonight we have a team meeting,” he said. “I’m going to go over my plan with them and then I’m going to let them tell me if they want to be here. If they don’t again, it’s not personal. If they do, then you know we have a roadmap and a journey that I’m very excited about. I have been recruiting.. As soon as we get done here, I’m gonna make sure the coaches that we talked about earlier are employed by Benedict and we will get some great quality young men and their families here.”

In a press release issued by the school, Director of Athletics Willie Washington said Dickerson made an impression as someone who will be able to continue the success Benedict has had in recent years.

“After reviewing hundreds of applicants for the head coaching position, coach Dickerson quickly stood out as someone who could step in immediately and continue the successful ways of this program,” he said. “His experience at a wide variety of football levels, as well as at both HBCU and non-HBCU programs, will enhance our football program and take us to new heights. I believe his hard work ethic runs in his blood, learning from his father who was a legendary coach.”

Dickerson comes to Columbia from the University of West Florida where he served as offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach. He is accustomed to winning as well as the Argonauts won back-to-back Gulf South Conference championships and advanced all the way to the NCAA Division II semifinals in 2022.

He takes over a Benedict College team that is fresh off its second consecutive SIAC Championship and when asked if he felt any pressure following in walking in former head coach Chennis Berry’s footsteps, he confidently and sternly said “no.”

“He did a great job, you understand what I’m saying? But like I said, his name was Coach Berry. My name is Coach Ron Dickerson Jr. and we are totally different people. The standard is mine. The vision is Benedict’s. I appreciate what he did, he did a great job. Yes, he has set the bar. But today, this is Ron Dickerson Jr.’s program.”

With National Signing Day right around the corner, Dickerson said he doesn’t feel rushed. He also indicated his Benedict College program will lean heavily on the transfer portal in year one.

In terms of on-field identity, Dickerson said the offense remains to be seen, but he already has big plans for the defense. He noted that he is excited to make sure both sides of the ball are operating smoothly.

“First and foremost, the honor of being the head coach, I don’t have to coach positions anymore. I get to oversee and make sure all the little things are done right,” he said. Now will I still want to coach wide receivers? Yes, because that’s in my DNA and I’ve been blessed to put a lot of young men in the NFL. Offensively, it’s going to be a surprise. Defensively, we’re going to be very aggressive. We’re going to pressure when we need to, but we’re going to be smart. We’re going to have athletes on the field and we’re going to have young men who are very smart on the field. So, you’re going to see a defense that puts pressure and really confuses quarterbacks.”

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COLUMBIA, S.C. — Benedict College President Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis and Director of Athletics Willie Washington are proud to announce the hiring of Ron Dickerson Jr. as head football coach for the Tigers.

Dickerson has a long successful history as a football coach, bringing more than 27 years of coaching experience to the Tigers.

He comes to Benedict after serving the last two seasons at the University of West Florida, helping the Argonauts to back-to-back Gulf South Conference championships, a 20-6 record, and a berth into the NCAA Division II national semifinals in 2022. He served as the UWF Offensive Coordinator and wide receivers coach last season, helping the Argos rank 17th in the nation in passing offense, and 20^th in the nation in total offense. As the team’s wide receivers coach in 2022, he guided a passing attack that ranked fifth in the nation in passing yards per completion.

“Benedict College was fortunate to have had a robust pool of applicants for the Head Football Coach position,” Artis said. “After a long and thorough search, we believe Coach Dickerson is the ideal person to take Benedict College football to the next level.  We welcome he and his family to Benedict and to the City of Columbia!”

“After reviewing hundreds of applicants for the head coaching position, Coach Dickerson quickly stood out as someone who could step in immediately and continue the successful ways of this program,” said Washington. “His experience at a wide variety of football levels, as well as at both HBCU and non-HBCU programs, will enhance our football program and take us to new heights. I believe his hard work ethic runs in his blood, learning from his father, who was a legendary coach.”

“I have an incredible respect for Benedict College and its commitment to excellence,” Dickerson said. “The tradition-rich history of this program is unmatched across the landscape of HBCUs, and I look forward to continuing that moving forward. My family and I feel truly blessed and look forward to becoming a part of the Benedict community. I want to thank Director of Athletics Willie Washington and President Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis for their belief in me to lead this program.”

Dickerson takes over a Benedict program that is coming off back-to-back SIAC championships and HBCU Division II national championships. The Tigers went undefeated during the regular season in 2022 and 2023 and advanced to the NCAA Division II playoffs both years.

Prior to joining West Florida, Dickerson spent the 2019 season as the Assistant Head Coach and Special Teams Coordinator at Jackson State. While there, he developed the weekly game plan and coached the Tigers’ wide receivers.

He worked for two seasons at Morgan State from 2017-18 where he developed the top special teams units in the MEAC and ranked in the top five nationally in blocked kicks as the Associate Head Coach and Special Teams Coordinator.

Dickerson was the head coach at Gardner-Webb from 2011-12 where he compiled a 7-15 record and had 10 players earn All-Big South Conference. He then served as the Offensive Coordinator at Robert E. Lee High School in Montgomery, Ala. from 2014-17.

He coached under Houston Nutt at Mississippi for four seasons from 2007-10, developing two All-Americans and four All-SEC wide receivers. The Rebels finished second in the SEC West twice and won a pair of Cotton Bowl Classics in Jan. 2009 and 2010.

He got his start as a position coach working with running backs in six seasons at Louisiana-Monroe and Missouri State from 2002-07.

Dickerson obtained some professional coaching experience with the Las Vegas Outlaws of the XFL and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 2000-02, coaching running backs and special teams.

He started his coaching career under his father, Ron Dickerson, at Alabama State in 1997 as the Run Game Coordinator.

During his extensive coaching career, Dickerson has been responsible for 29 All-Conference players, seven All-Americans, and has seen 14 former players advance to the National Football League.

Ron Dickerson Jr. Playing Card Gallery

Dickerson had a strong collegiate and professional playing career as a running back and kick return specialist. Following a four-year career in football and track at Arkansas, he spent two seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs and one with the Philadelphia Eagles. Dickerson then played two years with NFL Europe, playing for the London Monarchs and Scottish Claymores, winning the NFL Europe Championship in 1996 with the Claymores.

He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Recreational Education from the University of Arkansas in 1996.

Dickerson and his wife, Kendreah, have three children: Kristen, Ashten and Keegan.

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WACO, Texas — Benedict College head football coach Chennis Berry has been named Region 2 Coach of the Year for the second year in a row, the American Football Coaches Association announced today.

The AFCA recognizes five regional Coach of the Year winners in each of the Association’s five divisions: Football Bowl Subdivision, Football Championship Subdivision, Division II, Division III, and NAIA. The winners are selected by Active members of the Association who vote for coaches in their respective regions and divisions.

These winners will be honored on Tuesday, January 9, during the 2024 AFCA Convention in Nashville, Tennessee.

Chennis Berry guided the Tigers to their second consecutive undefeated regular season, SIAC Championship, NCAA playoff berth, and No. 1 seeding in Super Region 2.

The Tigers rank No. 1 in the nation in scoring defense, allowing opponents just 10.7 points per game during the 2023 season. Benedict also ranks first in team sacks and second in tackles for loss and passing yards allowed. Offensively, the Tigers ranked 15^th in scoring offense (39.8 points per game) and 26^th in total offense.

Super Region 2 includes all members of the SIAC, Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA), Gulf South Conference (GSC), and South Atlantic Conference (SAC).

AFCA National Coach of the Year: The AFCA will announce the 2023 National Coaches of the Year winners in FBS, FCS, Division II, Division III and NAIA on Tuesday, January 9th. The Regional winners in each division are finalists for National Coach of the Year.

Division II
Region 1: Jim Clements, Kutztown University
Region 2: *Chennis Berry, Benedict College
Region 3: Josh Lamberson, University of Central Missouri
Region 4: Paul Simmons, Harding University
Region 5: Pete Sterbick, Colorado School of Mines
*-2022 winner

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Benedict led 19-14 at halftime but could not maintain the momentum as Lenoir-Rhyne scored 21 unanswered points to take a 35-19 lead with just over nine minutes remaining. Benedict would score on a third connection from Dennis to Harden with 5:49 remaining but was unable to get any closer.

The loss ends Benedict’s season at 11-1 for the second consecutive year in the NCAA Division II playoffs at the hands of a South Atlantic Conference team. Last year, Wingate came into Columbia and knocked off the top seed.

Now all eyes will be on Columbia to see where – if anywhere – head coach Chennis Berry lands as he figures to be in the mix for several FCS head coaching jobs after going 22-2 in his last two seasons at Benedict.

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Just over 24 hours after winning its second consecutive SIAC title, Benedict was awarded the top seed in the NCAA Division II playoffs for the second season in a row. 

Benedict is the number one seed in the D2 Super Region II, which includes the SIAC and CIAA as well as the South Atlantic Conference and the Gulf South Conference. The remainder of the field will be announced later. 

BC enters the postseason 11-0 after a dominant performance in the SIAC championship game over Albany State. It brought a similar record last season when it fell to Wingate in the second round after a bye.

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Albany State held pace with Benedict early holding the Tigers to just three points in the first quarter. In the second quarter Benedict executed a couple of explosive plays to ignite its offense. Aeneas Dennis found Caden High for a 28 yard score with 12:13 remaining in the second quarter for a 10-0 lead.

With 7:46 remaining Dennis connected with Reginald Harden for a 55 yard touchdown pass as BC pushed the lead to 17-0 on the extra point attempt. Albany State scored on a field goal with nine seconds remaining in the half to make it a 17-3 game just before the half.

Defense gets on the board

The dominant Benedict defense put some points on the board to start the third quarter. Jayden Broughton strip sacked ASU quarterback Jhaydon Sullivan at the Albany State two yard line. Loobert Denelus recovered the ball for a score and a 23-3 lead.

Dennis would show on the next offensive possession that he could get it done on the ground with a 72 yard rushing touchdown and Benedict pushed the lead to 30-3. Albany State answered with a scoring drive to trim the lead to 30-10 on a Dionte Bonneau five yard touchdown run.

But the BC defense wouldn’t allow any more points and the Tigers put up a field goal and two additional touchdowns in the fourth quarter for the 47-10 final.

Benedict finishes the regular season 11-0 with back to back SIAC Championships, and should head into the NCAA Division II playoffs as a No. 1 seed in its region. This will mark back to back playoff appearances for the Tigers. The Tigers were in the same position last season but ultimately lost to Wingate after an opening round bye.

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Jackson State leads the SWAC with nearly 30k. That’s an impressive number, but it is a significant drop from its 2022 number. Norfolk State got a slight bump as it led the MEAC. North Carolina A&T got another sellout it’s first season in the CAA.

Here are the numbers of attendance at each HBCU homecoming game. All numbers were taken from official box scores from each school’s athletic website.

MEAC

Norfolk State-24,976

South Carolina State-22,269

North Carolina Central-13,626

Howard-7,684

Delaware State-6,300

Morgan State-Canceled

SWAC

Jackson State-30,947

Alabama A&M-26,391

Florida A&M-22,338

Southern-21,492

Alcorn State-21,012

Alabama State-17,995

Prairie View A&M-14,224

Arkansas-Pine Bluff-13,469

Bethune-Cookman-9,458

Mississippi Valley State-8,752

Grambling State-8,657

Texas Southern-6,352

CAA

North Carolina A&T-21,500

Hampton-13,811

CIAA

Winston-Salem State-8,200

Virginia Union-5,250

Shaw-5,022

Livingstone – 4,501

Bowie State-4,395

St. Augustine’s-3,719

Fayetteville State-3,680

Elizabeth City State-3,579

Johnson C. Smith-3,452

Virginia State-3,409

Lincoln (PA)-2,117

Bluefield State-N/A

SIAC

Tuskegee-31,726

Clark Atlanta-19,597

Savannah State-12,723

Fort Valley State-12,113

Morehouse-10,213

Benedict-8,589

Albany State-8,371

Kentucky State-2,898

Edward Waters-2,472

Lane-1,753

Allen-905

Central State-N/A

Miles-N/A

Other

Tennessee State-13,975

West Virginia State-3,954

Lincoln (MO)-3,333

Virginia University-Lynchburg-1,753

Florida Memorial-1,200

Langston-N/A

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“Pretty cool that there’s obviously other college teams, college programs in the city of Columbia,” Beamer said. “A lot that we have to offer here and both those teams had phenomenal seasons and got a lot of respect for them. 

Allen University and South Carolina have a direct tie as the private school practiced at the state flagship school before its own practice field was complete.

“My kids won’t have to get up early in the morning to travel to different places. My hat goes out to some of the community at the University of South Carolina for allowing us the opportunity to be able to use their facilities at times to be able to get our practices in. But now it feels good to have your own.”

Allen University AD Jasher Cox appreciated the acknowledgment by Beamer. 

“It’s quite uncommon for a head football coach from a Power 5 school, like Coach Shane Beamer, to take a moment during his weekly press conference, which typically focuses on his own program, to express this sentiment. We truly appreciate it, Coach!”

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Albany State started the day on the outside looking-in at the SIAC championship picture. It handled its business by knocking off Fort Valley State 13-7, giving it a 6-2 SIAC record to match its inter-state rival. It then got some help from Miles College as it defeated Tuskegee University at home, creating a four-way tie for second place. 

Albany State will face the undefeated Benedict College Tigers (8-0) at Lakewood Stadium on November 11 at 1 p.m. ET.

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Defending CIAA champion Fayetteville State University is the other HBCU that would qualify for the D2 playoffs if they started today. FSU has bounced back from opening losses to UNC Pembroke and Lenoir-Rhyne to run off seven consecutive wins in a row. That was enough to clinch the CIAA Southern Division crown for the sixth consecutive season with Saturday’s win over Shaw University. That run has it in the seventh spot, meaning it would play the no. 2 seed for the right to play Benedict in the second round.

Super Region II is composed of two conferences made up of PWIs – South Atlantic Conference and Gulf South Conference – in addition to the CIAA and SIAC. Delta State (MS), Valdosta (GA) State, West Florida, Lenoir-Rhyne and Mars Hill currently make up no. 2-6.

Sitting outside the top seven is West Georgia (6-2) along with Fort Valley State (6-2) out of the SIAC and Virginia Union (8-1) of the CIAA. Both FVSU and VUU are set to take on in-state rivals on Saturday, with championship game implications for both of them. 

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IRVING, Texas — The National Football Foundation (NFF) & College Hall of Fame announced today the finalists for the 2023 William V. Campbell Trophy®, college football’s premier scholar-athlete award that annually recognizes an individual as the absolute best in the nation for his combined academic success, football performance and exemplary leadership. Among the 16 national finalists is Benedict College senior defensive lineman Loobert Denelus.

“I was definitely surprised,” Denelus said, after receiving the news after practice. “I was very grateful for the way it was presented to me. To have all my teammates and coaches there, and to see their smiles on their faces, meant a lot to me.”

“The entire Benedict College football family is extremely proud of one of our team members Mr. Loobert Denelus on his selection to the 2023 William V. Campbell Trophy list of finalists,” said Benedict head coach Chennis Berry. “Congratulations on this monumental recognition. Mr. Denelus is extremely deserving of any award that he’s up for because he exudes everything great about being an excellent student-athlete.  His commitment to discipline, integrity, God, dedication, effort, execution and pride embodies everything we look for in a productive student-athlete on and off of the football field.  Loobert Denelus will be successful and whatever endeavor he chooses because of his work ethic and attention to detail.  We couldn’t be more proud of Loobert and all of his many accomplishments as a student-athlete at Benedict College.”

“Benedict College is extremely proud of Loobert Denelus for earning this incredibly high honor,” said Willie Washington, Benedict College Director of Athletics, who made the surprise announcement to Denelus and the football team. “He has brought the Benedict College football program national attention with his incredible talent on the field, and now he is being nationally recognized for his hard work and dedication in the classroom. He embodies the true meaning of being a student-athlete.”

“Loobert Denelus is most deserving of this honor,” said Benedict College President Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis.  “He is a disciplined, committed and dedicated scholar-athlete who exemplifies the BEST of BC on the field, in the classroom and in his personal life.  We could not be more proud of this exceptional young man!”

The 16 finalists will each receive an $18,000 postgraduate scholarship as a member of the 2023 NFF National Scholar-Athlete Class Presented by Fidelity Investments®. Of the 16 national finalists, Denelus is the only representative from Division II. There are three finalists from Division III and 12 are from Division I. Denelus is one of two representatives from HBCUs, joining North Carolina Central quarterback Davius Richard.

Denelus said earning this scholarship will give him an opportunity to pursue a post-graduate degree.

“I was just talking to one of my professors and he asked if I had any plans to pursue a graduate degree, and I said I didn’t want to go into debt,” Denelus said. “You can see God’s work and God’s hand in this process. I definitely will capitalize on this opportunity.”

The definition of a leader on and off the field, Loobert Denelus has established himself among the best defenders in Division II while earning a 3.96 GPA in classroom at Benedict College. The Naples, Florida, native now becomes the first-ever NFF National Scholar-Athlete in Tiger history.

Majoring in psychology and on pace to graduate in May, Denelus has produced a near flawless academic record, earning him the distinction as the first player in school history to garner CSC First Team Academic All-America honors. He also claimed the NCAA Division II ADA Academic Achievement Award in 2022, and his accomplishments landed him on the SAIC Commissioner’s All-Academic Team.

A two-year team captain and the first player in school history to be named a First Team All-American by the American Football Coaches Association, Denelus was also named an HBCU All-American by BOXTOROW in 2022. The 2022 SIAC Defensive Player of the Year, Denelus was the heart and soul of a Tiger defense that led Division II in fourth-down conversion percentage (.130) and ranked third in third-down conversion defense (.248) last season. The contributions of the 6-foot, 255-pounder played a major role in the Tigers’ perfect 11-0 regular season en route to a SIAC title, berth in the Division II Playoffs, and a final No. 12 ranking in 2022.

In his first two seasons, Denelus totaled 92 tackles, 30 tackles for loss, 16.5 sacks, five forced fumbles, five fumbles recovered and one blocked kick. His 2022 totals led the SIAC in numerous categories, including tackles for loss (22), sacks (14), forced fumbles (3) and fumbles recovered (4). The totals also ranked him nationally at No. 4 for sacks and sixth for tackles for loss. This year he has amassed 32 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, 10 sacks and one forced fumble through the first eight games, ranking him second in sacks per game and fifth in tackles for loss per game this year in Division II, and he is the key figure in the Benedict defense that ranks first in total defense; second in scoring defense; second in tackles for loss; and fourth in sacks. Denelus played his freshman season at Southeastern University in Florida.

Denelus has volunteered numerous hours, including as a mental health aid, visiting elementary schools, participating in food drives, and assisting with clean-up projects in the community.

The 16 finalists were selected from a record number of 201 semifinalists nationwide from among all NCAA divisions and the NAIA.

The finalists will travel to the ARIA Resort & Casino in Las Vegas for the 65th NFF Annual Awards Dinner Presented by Las Vegas on Dec. 5, where their accomplishments will be highlighted in front of one of the most powerful audiences in all of sports. Live during the event, one member of the class will be declared as the winner of the 34th Campbell Trophy® and have his postgraduate scholarship increased to $25,000.

“We are extremely proud to announce the finalists for this year’s Campbell Trophy®,” said NFF Chairman Archie Manning, whose sons Peyton (Campbell Trophy® recipient) and Eli were NFF National Scholar-Athletes in 1997 and 2003, respectively. “These young men have an unrelenting commitment to excellence in all aspects of their lives, and they represent all that is right in college football. As strong leaders in the vein of the trophy’s namesake Bill Campbell, they all serve as living examples that the ‘Future For Football’ is bright. We are excited to honor their hard work and outstanding leadership with postgraduate scholarships.”

Submitted by their schools, which are limited to one nominee each, candidates for the Campbell Trophy® must be either a senior player who will complete his final year of eligibility during the 2023 season or be a graduated player who has been enrolled in school at least three (3) years (even if he has remaining eligibility); must have minimum cumulative GPA of 3.2 on a 4.0 scale; must have outstanding football ability as a starter/significant contributor; and must have exhibited exemplary leadership on the field, in the classroom and within the community.

“The NFF Awards Committee did an excellent job in selecting this year’s National Scholar-Athletes,” said NFF President & CEO Steve Hatchell. “Chosen from a record-breaking number of semifinalists, the finalists have undoubtedly distinguished themselves as some of the best student-athletes in the country. Each of these men is a leader on and off the field, and we know that they have only begun to reach their potential.”

Following the 65th NFF Annual Awards Dinner Presented by Las Vegas, the recipient of the 2023 Campbell Trophy® will be honored at several other prestigious events. On Thursday, Dec. 7, he will be interviewed live during the “The Home Depot College Football Awards” on ESPN. On Sunday, Dec. 10, he will sit on the dais during the Heisman Trophy dinner. Then on Monday, Dec. 11, a reception will be held in his honor at the New York Athletic Club (NYAC), the official home of the trophy since 2013.

Launched in 1959, the NFF National Scholar-Athlete Awards Presented by Fidelity Investments celebrate their 65th year in 2023. The awards were the first initiative in history to grant postgraduate scholarships based on both a player’s academic and athletic accomplishments. Since 2011, Fidelity Investments, a leading provider of workplace savings plans in higher education, has served as the presenting sponsor of the NFF National Scholar-Athlete Awards.

As part of its support of the NFF National Scholar-Athlete Awards, Fidelity Investments helped launch the NFF Faculty Salutes, which recognize the contributions of the faculty athletics representatives at each of the institutions with a finalist for the Campbell Trophy®. The NFF presents each of the faculty athletics representatives with a plaque and Fidelity donates $5,000 for the academic support services at each school. The salutes have recognized 186 FARs since the program’s inception, and Fidelity has made a total of $930,000 (including $80,000 this year) in donations.

Including the 2023 Campbell Trophy® finalists, the NFF has honored 922 individuals with National Scholar-Athlete Awards, and this year’s postgraduate scholarships will push the program’s all-time distribution to more than $12.6 million.

Loobert Denelus joins an elite group of former honorees.

A total of 42 former National Scholar-Athletes have been inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame and seven are in the Pro Football Hall of Fame: Tony Boselli (Southern California), Derrick Brooks (Florida State), Dave Casper (Notre Dame), Peyton Manning (Tennessee), Merlin Olsen (Utah State), Lee Roy Selmon (Oklahoma) and Steve Young (BYU). Click here for a database of all the past NFF National Scholar-Athletes.

“It’s very shocking to be on the list with those kind of names,” Denelus said.

The Campbell Trophy® was first awarded in 1990, adding to the program’s prestige. Past recipients include two Rhodes Scholars, a Rhodes Scholar finalist, two Heisman Trophy winners and eight first-round NFL draft picks.

The trophy is named in honor of the late Bill Campbell, an All-Ivy League player and the captain of Columbia’s 1961 Ivy League championship team who found his true calling after an unlikely career change at age 39 from Columbia football coach to advertising executive. His ability to recruit, develop and manage talented executives — all lessons learned on the gridiron — proved to be a critical component of his ability to inspire his business teams to the highest levels of success. His contributions have been captured in a book titled “The Trillion Dollar Coach,” and during his lifetime, he affectionally became known as the “Coach of Silicon Valley.”

Campbell joined the NFF Board in 1978 while he was still a coach at Columbia, and he continued to serve with distinction until his passing in 2016. In 2004, the NFF recognized Campbell’s contributions and accomplishments by presenting him with the NFF Gold Medal, the organization’s highest honor. In 2009, the NFF renamed college football’s premier scholar-athlete award as The William V. Campbell Trophy® as an inspiration to future generations.

This year’s 16 national finalists:

Cooper Beebe, OL — Kansas State (3.84 GPA – Social Studies Education)
JD Bertrand, LB — Notre Dame (3.62 GPA – Marketing)
DeWayne Carter, DT — Duke (3.47 GPA – Psychology)
Loobert Denelus, DE — Benedict [SC] (3.96 GPA – Psychology)
Jacob Dobbs, LB — Holy Cross (3.76 GPA – Economics & Religious Studies)
Olu Fashanu, OT — Penn State (3.45 GPA – Supply Chain & Info Systems)
Zach Frazier, C — West Virginia (3.88 GPA – Sport Management)
Owen Grover, LB — Wartburg [IA] (3.99 GPA – Biology)
Leo Lowin, LB — Army West Point (3.92 GPA – Engineering Management)
Ladd McConkey, WR — Georgia (3.85 GPA – Finance)
Bo Nix, QB — Oregon (3.62 GPA – Communications)
Davius Richard, QB — North Carolina Central (3.59 GPA – Business Administration)
Luke Schuermann, DE — Johns Hopkins [MD] (3.61 GPA – Mechanical Engineering)
Taulia Tagovailoa, QB — Maryland (3.61 GPA – Family Science)
Liam Thompson, QB — Wabash [IN] (3.87 GPA – Rhetoric)
Zak Zinter, OL — Michigan (3.53 GPA – Sport Management)

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Ironically, Virginia State and Virginia Union are both tied for the CIAA’s top record at 7-1, but both teams are on the outside-looking in – likely due to their lack of strength of scheduling. VSU’s best win is against 4-4 Tusculum. Virginia Union’s best win is against 4-4 Lincoln (PA). If both teams win on Saturday then the Nov. 4 duel between the two teams should boost the winner into not only the CIAA title game but also keep it in the bid for the Division II playoffs. The loser’s best-case scenario is likely a trip to the newly created Beach Bowl 

Valdosta State is set to take on West Florida on Saturday and will matchup against West Georgia on Nov. 11.

Starting next week, the regional rankings will be posted in order that they would be slated to appear. 

The CIAA and SIAC used to be in different NCAA Division II Super Regions, but were re-aligned after 2016.

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It was Benedict’s highest scoring game since the Tigers defeated Savannah State 65-6 in 1960.

Head coach Chennis Berry has encouraged his team to put God first and he said his team received a word to go make history during their weekly bible study.

“Last night we had bible study, which our team devotion, and we had a pastor came and speak who actually was a former player that played here in 2001 and 2004,” he said. “And he spoke to the team about being something special. He told the team last night, he said, ‘guys, you guys are going to do something tomorrow. That’s more special than you’ve done all season. You’re gonna do something you hadn’t done all year,’ and we did exactly that.”

The Tigers logged 439 total yards of offense on the day, 277 coming on the ground and 162 through the air. Of those 277 rushing yards, sophomore running back Deondra Duehart accumulated 112 on 18 carries while finding the endzone three times that day. Graduate quarterback Aeneas Dennis rushed for 56 yards and a touchdown. Dennis also finished the day with 13 of 21 pass attempts for 154 yards and two touchdowns.

Defensively Benedict held the Thoroughbreds to 266 total yards of offense. The Tiger defense had active hands all the way until the final buzzer as they logged three interceptions for 46 yards, including Jarod Washington’s 36-yard pick six in the fourth quarter. Nolan Jones and Ja’ron Kilpatrick recorded the other two interceptions.

Berry said he was pleased with what he saw on the field.

“You know, we ran the ball very well. We scored, obviously 63 points and played great in all three phases and we’ve been waiting to put a full game together,” he said. “We talk about winning and being great in September, playing our best ball in the month of October so we can make it in November. We’re heading in the right direction right now.”

Benedict College takes its show on the road next week to face 2-5 Savannah State.

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“We had a good plan, and a good feel for what they were doing,” Berry said. “We did a good job, to hold an explosive offense like that out of the end zone. That’s just kudos to our guys. It all starts with our big guys up front. If we can win up front, and our second level can do their thing, then our back end can just bring it on home, and they were able to get some picks today and change the game by creating turnovers.”
 
Quarterback Aeneas Dennis threw for 311 yards, threw for a touchdown and ran for a touchdown. Deondra Duehart rushed for 112 yards on 17 carries and scored a pair of touchdowns. Ja’ron Kilpatrick had an interception return for a touchdown. Tom Piccirillo had a pair of field goals, kicking a 44-yarder, which matched his season long, and a 24-yarder in the first half as Benedict held a 27-3 lead at the break.

 
Billy Pierre had a 59-yard touchdown reception in the third quarter, and Israel Rhodes scored a rushing touchdown.
 
The Tigers are home again on Oct. 20 for their Homecoming showdown with Kentucky State. Kickoff is 2 p.m.

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Benedict College comes in undefeated on the year and takes on a Fort Valley State team that suffered a loss to start the year but has since won five straight. Benedict head coach Chennis Berry said he expects a battle.

“They’re a good football team. They’re doing a good job and Coach [Shawn] Gibbs has those guys playing hard,” he said. “We’ll have to play our best game. Our guys will be ready. They have some guys on offense, defense and special teams that can make some plays. So we’ve just got to focus on us and make sure we’re prepared and ready to go and I have no doubt in my mind that the Benedict Tigers will be ready to go at 7:30 Thursday night.”

Berry noted that his team developed some mental toughness after escaping Fairfield, Ala. with the 27-24 win over Miles last week. Benedict held a pretty comfortable lead throughout the game until Miles scored 15 points in the 4th quarter and threatened to overtake the Tigers. Benedict was able to hold on thanks to a complete team effort according to Berry.

“I think that win brought us closer as a team,” he said. “It’s not about offense, it’s not about defense, it’s not about special teams, it’s about the team and I think that was a team win. Everybody did what they needed to do at the right moment. Defense made plays when they had to, offense made plays when they had to, special teams made plays when they had to. So I think as a team, that win brought us closer together and we’ll see where it takes us in the end, but right now we’re focused on trying to go 1-0 against Fort Valley State.

Benedict College wants to keep that momentum going after getting what Berry described as a “program-defining win.” They’ll try to do that on the offensive side of the ball and put on a show for the home crowd on ESPN2. The Tigers are averaging a blistering 37.5 points per game as well as 399.7 total yards of offense. Berry said the Tigers must stay out of their own way.

 “We’ve just got to take care of the football and win the effort battle, win the penalty battle, win the turnover battle and win the explosive play battle,” he said. “We talk about those four ingredients, regardless of who we’re playing and how we’re playing them, we don’t we don’t change that mission to win those battles. I think offensively, if we do a good job of taking care of football, don’t turn the ball over, take what the defense gives us, we’ll have an opportunity to move the ball. We’ll let those first downs turn into touchdowns and we’ll see what the score looks like in the end.”

At stake in this contest is first place overall in the SIAC. The Tigers have the top spot right now at 4-0 in conference play and that 6-0 overall record with the Wildcats right behind them at 5-0 in the SIAC. 

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FAIRFIELD, Ala. — The Benedict College Tigers held off a second-half surge by the Miles Golden Bears, and Noah Zaire Scotland scored the go-ahead touchdown with 2:25 remaining as the 11^th-ranked Tigers remained unbeaten with a 27-24 victory on Saturday afternoon.
 
“That was a program defining win for us,” said Benedict head coach Chennis Berry. “We needed to go through some adversity. That’s the sign of a championship football team. I think this brought our football team together, to come on the road in hostile territory and come away with the victory.”
 
Benedict (6-0 overall, 4-0 SIAC) had a 21-3 lead at the half, but the Golden Bears scored on a 42-yard pass after getting the ball when Aeneas Dennis threw his first interception of the season. The PAT failed to make it 21-9 with 6:25 remaining in the third quarter.
 
Benedict got the ball back on the next series and the Tigers were driving when the Golden Bears intercepted Dennis again. Miles (4-2 overall, 3-1 SIAC) drove 86 yards on nine plays to score again to cut the lead to 21-16 with 11:20 left in the game.
 
Benedict was facing a fourth-and-one at the Miles 44-yard line, but the Tigers came up short. Miles took over and scored the go-ahead touchdown on a 22-yard quarterback scramble to take a 24-21 lead after a successful two-point conversion with 7:49 left on the clock.
 
“This is a game where each of us had to depend on each other — offense, defense and special teams,” Berry said. “When Miles took the lead, our offense didn’t blink.”
 
The Tigers received the ball and went on a long, time-consuming drive, marching 87 yards on 12 plays. The key play on the drive was a 17-yard pass from Dennis to Jalen Jones on third-and-16. Dennis later found Jones for a 12-yard pass. Then on third-and-10 from the Miles 29, Dennis found Nicholas Sowell for an 11-yard pickup. On the next play, Dennis and Sowell combined again for a 17-yard pass to give Benedict a first-and-goal at the 1-yard line.
 
“Nick Sowell had an amazing day,” Berry said. “He had a great week of practice, and he understands that if you put in the work during the week, you get what you deserve on game day. He was amazing. I’m just so proud of him.”
 
Scotland got the call and scored his third touchdown of the game to give Benedict a 27-24 lead with 2:25 left in the game.
 
The Bears had one final chance, but Aaron Miller sacked Miles quarterback Kamren Ivory on fourth-and-one to seal the game for the Tigers.
 
“We needed a game like this to spark us for the rest of the season,” Berry said. “I’m so very proud of our team, our coaches, our players, our support staff, the people from Tiger nation who came from all over the country to come see us play, and they got the chance to witness a really good football team, and I’m so very proud to be the head football coach here.”
 
Benedict gave up a season-high 362 yards to the  Golden Bears, but the defense forced five Miles turnovers, gaining four fumbles and an interception. Benedict also collected five tackles for loss, two sacks, and five quarterback hurries.
 
“Our defense has been playing well all year,” Berry said. “Kudos to them and the staff. They’ve been doing an amazing job. They may have bent a little bit, but they didn’t break, and they found a way to win a football game. I’m very proud of our defensive staff, as well as our defensive football team.”
 
Dennis completed 21-of-37 passes for 286 yards and one touchdown, with two interceptions. Nicholas Sowell was the top target, hauling in nine passes for 174 yards, both career highs, with one touchdown — a 73-yard first-quarter bomb that gave Benedict a 7-3 lead.
 
Benedict recovered a Miles fumble at the Golden Bears’ one-yard line on the next series, and Scotland scored on the next play to make it 14-3. Scotland scored on a 34-yard run in the second quarter to give the Tigers a 21-3 lead.
 
“Our mission every week is just to go 1-0, and we accomplished the mission because we stuck together as a football team and found a way to win a football game.”
 
Benedict has a short turnaround before taking on Fort Valley State in a primetime game Thursday night that will be televised on ESPN2.

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Back in January, Phoenix announced his transfer portal entrance. “I am truly grateful for the education and athletic achievements earned during my time at Benedict College,” Phoenix tweeted. “The relationships, life lessons, and motivation for success have prepared me for the next chapter in my life.”

“With that being said, I have decided to enter my name in the transfer portal as a graduate transfer for the 2023 season.”

Standing at 6 feet 3 inches and weighing 205 pounds, Eric Phoenix joined Benedict College in 2019. Over his three seasons, Phoenix completed 343 passes for a total of 4,400 yards and 32 touchdowns, while also showcasing 18 interceptions.

Additionally, he has contributed 290 rushing yards, scoring eight touchdowns on the ground. As a testament to his all-around ability, he has even made four receptions for 17 yards.

In the 2022 season, Phoenix led Benedict to an undefeated regular season, guided them to their first-ever SIAC championship. During the championship game the quarterback threw 313 yards, scored two touchdowns through the air, and accumulated 91 yards on 11 carries.

Concluding the Tigers‘ championship season, Phoenix recorded 2,051 yards for 15 touchdowns while tossing just one interception. On the ground he had 233 rushing yards. There’s no doubt that this quarterback was a key component to the team’s success.

Last season, Murray State didn’t have the best of luck. The team finished with a 2-9 overall record and 1-4 in conference play. As the newest signee for Murray State, Phoenix could utilize his versatile signal-calling to turn the program around.

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The so-called “Week Zero” game, would have matched 2022 Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) champion Benedict against 2022 Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) champion Fayetteville State.

The idea was hatched by longtime HBCU sportscaster Charlie Neal. He now does play-by-play for black college games produced by HBCUGo that air nationwide on TheGrio and other national cable outlets. Both TheGrio and HBCUGo are owned by media mogul Byron Allen.

Neal and execs at HBCUgo and TheGrio reportedly convinced SIAC Commissioner Anthony Holloman and CIAA Commissioner Jacqie McWilliams to float the concept to the NCAA. The network was hoping the carry the game on Saturday, August 26 of this year on Benedict’s campus in Columbia, S. C.

Why did the NCAA turn the game down?

No Div. II conferences or teams have participated in Week Zero games. It appears that because there was no precedent for Div. II conferences playing Week Zero games, the SIAC/CIAA waiver was turned down by the NCAA.

HBCU Gameday reached out to the NCAA for confirmation and comment but had not heard back before publishing this story.

A source indicated that while the leagues are disappointed the game was unable to take place this year, there is hope for legislative relief. In other words, the game could be on for 2024.

NCAA Week Zero game history

Week Zero games originally referred to the opening weekend of college football games in the NCAA Div. I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). According to the Wikipedia entry on Week 0, “the NCAA has sporadically awarded waivers for games to be played a week earlier (than Week 1, on the Saturday before Labor Day) in order to bring a game to a national television audience.” The first Week 0 game was the 1983 Kickoff Classic. No. 1 Nebraska faced No. 4 Penn State at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N. J.

A waiver was sought by the SIAC and CIAA, representing two of the oldest Div. II conferences in the nation and the oldest of the four HBCU conferences in the NCAA.

Such games, based on their history, have been played between Div. I FBS or FCS programs. The Mid Eastern Athletics Conference (MEAC) and Southwestern Athletics Conference (SWAC), the two HBCU Div. I conferences, received a waiver and played the first MEAC/SWAC Challenge in 2005. That Week Zero game will have its 18th iteration this season.

Week Zero games making an impact and growing

Hero Sports says Week 0 games have become a big appetizer to the upcoming football seasons, focusing on teams that take the field first. The list of such games, its story said, has been growing and gives a quicker start to the season on our TVs.

For the 2023 season, ten Week 0 Div I games are scheduled for Saturday, August 26. Included among them is the match up of South Carolina State of the Mid Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) and Jackson State of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) at the 18th MEAC/SWAC Challenge. Those same two teams met in the 2021 season-ending Celebration Bowl in Atlanta.

There were 11 Week 0 games on Saturday, August 27 in 2022.

Sources expect adjustments to be made in 2024 when Week One is scheduled to kick off post-Labor Day on September 8.

More HBCU cooperation in store?

Earlier this year, members of the four HBCU NCAA conferences announced they would be doing more to work together. Sources indicate one of the first attempts to make good on that pledge was trying to add the Div. II game to the early season menu.

The game would have been similar to the MEAC/SWAC Challenge. One distinction between the two showcase games is that the Division II version would feature the two defending champions. The SWAC and MEAC teams are selected years in advance. 

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On the field Saturday were sophomores Zayshaun Rice and Kendall McCoy. Rice was on the Benedict roster last season as a freshman and said he was able to learn a lot from Phoenix and Lampley.

Slowing the game down

“Really, you just gotta slow the game down for yourself,” Rice said. They really just slowed the game down and they took it one play at a time. Mistakes will come, but they always bypassed the mistakes and continued to play the game, really finished the game. No matter what, any mistakes that happened, they kept the team uplifted and just kept on, just kept the energy high.”

McCoy joins the team after transferring from Gardner-Webb University. He’s looking to bring a necessary locker room presence and said the team chemistry is making his transition an easy one.

“I definitely can bring some leadership. I’ve only been here for like three months and I’ve been able to create a bond with these guys,” he said. “This is an amazing team. What coaches preach, they’re family, they love everyone, forget about me, I love you, like all that has to come and play. These are your brothers, this is a brotherhood. What all the coaches preach to us every day, it really pays off.”

Berry said the young duo has some work to do but they’re learning and growing. Berry also noted that he’s not quite done adding to his quarterback room at Benedict.

“We signed a transfer quarterback, we signed a high school quarterback and we’re gonna sign another transfer quarterback,” he said. “So ultimately, at the end of the day, we’ll be ready when the ball kicks off on September 2.”

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COLUMBIA, S.C. — The Benedict College Tigers have announced their 2023 football schedule, which will feature the SIAC defending champions playing nine games, including five at home.
 
The season will kick off on Sept. 2 against Shaw in the Carolinas Classic. Last year, Benedict College competed against Elizabeth City State in the Carolinas Classic. The Tigers crushed ECS with a final score of 58-14.

Benedict College travels to Miles on Oct. 7, and then returns home for back-to-back games against Fort Valley State on Oct. 14, and then Kentucky State for Homecoming on Oct. 21.
 
Benedict takes its final road trip on Oct. 28 to take on Savannah State, before returning home on Nov. 4 to take on rival Allen University. Last season the Tigers beat Allen by a score of 54-21.

Unlike last year the Tigers will be home for 3 out of the 4 final football games. On Oct. 28, they will travel to Savannah State.

Before hitting the road to Georgia, Benedict College will be at home taking on Kentucky State on Oct. 21 for homecoming.

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“As one door closes another one opens,” Kevin Saxton Jr. wrote on social media. “Extremely grateful and excited for this next chapter God has planned for me! Let’s get to work”

Saxton spent last season with the Benedict College Tigers as they won their first SIAC Football Championship. Prior to Benedict, Saxton was the offensive coordinator and recruiting coordinator at Cuthbertson High School in Waxhaw, North Carolina. He led a record breaking offense that earned two All-State selections in 2019. Prior to Cuthbertson, Saxton spent three years at Emory and Henry College where he served as the co-offensive coordinator and defensive backs coach.

Kansas City Chief’s head coach Andy Reid discussed the coaching changes including this hire from Benedict College.

“Every offseason in the National Football League brings change, and for the first time in a while we had some movement on the coaching staff,” Head Coach Andy Reid said. “Obviously, we lost a couple of really talented coaches in Coach Bieniemy and Coach Lewis, and I’m happy for both of those guys getting new opportunities to show what they can do in this league. On the strength and conditioning side of things, I’d like to congratulate Coach Rubin on an outstanding career and wish him the best in retirement. As for our changes this year, I’m excited to see what these coaches can do in their new roles. They are all talented individuals with unique skillsets. All of them have the ability to bring something different to the table to benefit our team and specifically our players.”

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COLUMBIA, S.C. – Vice President Kamala Harris promoted the Biden administration’s achievements on broadband internet access during a visit to South Carolina, recently minted as the site of Democrats’ first presidential votes of the 2024 campaign.

In Monday’s trip, her fourth to the early-voting state since becoming vice president, Harris lauded more than $175 million being spent to help improve high-speed internet infrastructure at historically Black colleges and institutions, which she called “centers of academic excellence.”

“Many of those that we focus on currently do not have reliable access to high-speed internet on campus,” said Harris, herself a graduate of an HBCU. “This means that more students will be able to use the internet for their everyday needs.”

Benedict CEO and President Roslyn Clark Artis celebrated the efforts to close the digital divide in South Carolina. 

“This is really quite frankly the civil rights issue of the day is internet technology,” said Artis.

According to Artis, Benedict will use their $2.85 million grant to purchase upgraded technology like laptops and hotspots for students, in addition to creating a community computer lab. 

Artis said 12 percent of students live in technology deserts. 

“We sent them a laptop and hotspot, but there’s simply nothing for it to connect to if there’s no broadband in their community so that 12 percent is really disenfranchised,” said Artis. 

It’s a reality for Junior Dem’i Dell from Woodruff who knows the struggle of internet issues. 

“Coming from a low income community knowing how you can’t always access the internet or just being rural and you can’t get to the Wi-Fi and having to sit in the parking lot is not always the best and comfortable way to do effective work,” said Dell. 

Adults and children from certain zip codes in Richland County will be allowed to use the new community computer lab. Those areas have not been determined, but Artis said the lab will have dozens of computers.

“There will be a myriad of programs available to people in the community who want to upscale, learn a new trade or get a job in the technology sector,” said Artis. 

VP Kamala Harris discuss plan of action

Harris’ remarks to a room of at least 100 supporters and student leaders from Benedict College, an HBCU in Columbia, came as Democrats’ national attention hones in on South Carolina, where a landslide 2020 primary win gave Joe Biden the momentum to notch Super Tuesday wins and bounce several opponents from the race.

Biden has repeatedly acknowledged the state’s pivotal role in his nomination as well as the significance of its heavily Black Democratic electorate. During remarks at a fundraiser last year, Harris thanked South Carolina Democrats, who “set President Joe Biden and me on a path to the White House.”

Late last year, Biden asked the Democratic National Committee to move the state to the top of the presidential primary voting calendar, which party officials did this month. Via its email lists, South Carolina’s Democratic Party has already begun selling buttons, mugs and apparel flaunting the state’s new status with the tagline “South Carolina Democrats Pick Winners.”

But Harris’ appearance also comes as a debate swirls over whether Biden – who, at age 80, is the nation’s oldest president – should seek a second term in office, as is widely expected. According to a poll released this month from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, just 37% of Democrats said they wanted Biden to seek a second term.

Though he’s long said it’s his intent to seek reelection, Biden has yet to make it official, struggling to dispel questions about whether he’s too old to continue serving as president. In an exclusive interview last week with The Associated Press, first lady Jill Biden gave one of the clearest indications yet that her husband will run in 2024, saying that there’s “pretty much” nothing left to do but figure out the time and place for the announcement.

The Republican candidate field is already forming, with a focus on South Carolina, home to the first GOP presidential primary in the South. Former President Donald Trump held a campaign event in the Statehouse last month, and former Gov. Nikki Haley announced her candidacy in Charleston a few weeks later. Sen. Tim Scott is also mulling a potential bid.

Equalizing access to high-speed internet has been a priority for Biden, who in 2021 signed into law a $1 trillion infrastructure package that, alongside traditional public works projects like building roads and bridges, included $65 billion for broadband expansion.

Expanding broadband internet availability also has been a top priority for Rep. Jim Clyburn, one of the White House’s top Capitol Hill supporters and South Carolina’s lone congressional Democrat. Clyburn, the chamber’s assistant Democratic leader, has long advocated for more widespread internet access nationwide, pushing for affordable, high-speed networks in rural communities.

Last week, Clyburn appeared alongside Republican Gov. Henry McMaster to announce the formation of a program – funded by the bipartisan infrastructure package – designed to identify the areas of greatest need in South Carolina and invest in broadband infrastructure.

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SAVANNAH, Ga. — The Benedict College men’s basketball team took another step towards a SIAC title on Tuesday, as Gob Gabriel hit a 3-pointer with 1.6 seconds left to lift the Tigers to an 82-81 victory over LeMoyne-Owen in the 2023 TIAA SIAC Basketball Championship Tournament presented by Cricket held on the campus of Savannah State University.

 
“It doesn’t even seem real,” said Benedict head men’s basketball coach Artis Maddox. “But it’s that time of year. It’s win or go home and you’ve got to find a way to win.”

The Magicians, the third seed from the West Division, hit the first of two free throws with nine seconds left in the game. Gabriel rebounded the missed shot and passed to Brandon Smith. Smith then passed the ball back to Gabriel streaking down the left sideline. Gabriel stopped at the 3-point line and lofted the game-winning shot.

“At this time of year, everybody is going to be good,” Maddox said. “We just need to come in ready to play and be dialed in, limit our mistakes and take good shots on offense.”
 
Tuesday’s game was close throughout. The Magicians took an early lead, but the Tigers got their running game going and capitalized on some fast-break dunks to take a 35-28 lead. Gabriel hit a jumper to close out the first half and gave Benedict College a 39-32 lead at the break.

Key Moments

Marshaun West hit a jumper to open the second half to give Benedict it’s largest lead of the game, 41-32. The Magicians put together a run and took a 46-45 lead after a three-point play with 16:32 remaining and the game stayed tight the rest of the way.
 
The Magicians hit a 3-pointer to take a 72-68 lead with 3:25 left. A pair of free throws a short time later gave LeMoyne-Owen its largest lead of the game, 74-68 with 2:49 remaining.
 
Asanti Price hit a 3-pointer and Dontavius King followed with a layup to cut the lead to 74-73 with 1:14 left to play. The two teams traded 3-pointers, with Brandon Smith connecting with 14 seconds left to play to make it 80-79. The Magicians hit the free throw with nine seconds left, setting up Gabriel’s game-winning shot.
 
Malachi McCoy led the Tigers with a season-high 21 points and 10 rebounds. Price had 11 points and Gabriel scored 10 points.

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SAVANNAH, GA  — The 2023 TIAA SIAC Basketball Tournament presented by Cricket Wireless hosted opening rounds at Savannah State University on February 25. Check out the recaps from the first day of play inside of Tiger Arena.

SIAC Game 1 (Men)
#6W (Spring Hill), 55 v. #7E (Edward Waters), 78
Box Score
 

No. 7 in the East Division, Edward Waters, started the 2023 TIAA SIAC Basketball Tournament presented by Cricket as they defeated the Spring Hill Badgers, 78-65. The Badgers held a 34-29 lead at halftime after shooting 44 percent (12-of-27) from the floor and 87 percent (7-of-8) from the free throw line. The Tigers mounted a second-half comeback to defeat the Badgers and secure their first postseason win in the SIAC. Beril Kabamba led scoring for the Badgers and posted his 10th double-double of the season with 24 points and 10 rebounds. Cahlib Edwards led EWU with 23 points. Cahlib Edwards led the offensive effort for the Tigers with 23 points and Jonathan Kanyanga collected four points and 12 rebounds to lead the Tigers to victory.
 
Up Next: The EWU Tigers advanced to the second opening round when they will take on No. 3 seed Fort Valley State on Tuesday at 2:30 p.m.

SIAC Game 2 (Men)
#6E (Benedict), 79 v. #7W (Central State), 67
Box Score
 

The No. 6 seed, Benedict College Tigers, built as much as a 13-point lead in the first half and then held off a late rally by Central State to take a 79-67 victory in the first round of the 2023 TIAA SIAC Basketball Tournament presented by Cricket, held at Savannah State University. The Tigers pulled away from a 17-16 game midway through the first half to build a 35-22 lead with 1:44 left in the half after a fast-break dunk by Malachi McCoy. Benedict had a 38-28 lead at the half. The Marauders cut the lead to 45-40 with 14:49 left in the game. The Tigers stormed back, and Brandon Smith gave Benedict a 65-52 lead on a 3-pointer with 7:23 remaining. 
 
The Marauders went on a 12-3 run to cut the lead to 68-64 with 3:33 left in the game. Asanti Price answered with a jumper, but Central State followed with a 3-pointer to make it 70-67 with 2:22 remaining. Benedict scored the final nine points of the game, getting a big 3-pointer by Dontavius King to start the run. King led Benedict, now 19-9 overall, with 15 points. Tim Moore added 11 points and Brandon Smith chipped in 10 points. For the Marauders, Steven Key II led their offensive effort with 23 points and Raevon Thomas added 11 points and eight rebounds.
 
Up Next: The BC Tigers advances to face LeMoyne-Owen, the third seed in the West Division, at 12 noon on Tuesday.

SIAC Game 3 (Men)
#5W (Kentucky State), 82 v. #8E (Allen), 72
Box Score
 

No. 5 seed in the West, Kentucky State, relied on a consistent second half to lift them over the Allen Yellow Jackets for an 82-72 win inside Tiger Arena in their first matchup of the tournament. In the first ten minutes of the game, both teams tied three times, one by Kentucky State at 16:08 (6-6) and two by Allen at 13:30 (12-12) and 12:12 (14-14). Four points by Brandon Hill and a three-pointer by Elijiah Lockhart led to an 8-0 28-17 Kentucky State lead with 6:41 remaining in the first half.  The Thorobreds went on an 11-2 run going 100% (4-of-4) at the charity stripe in the first five of the last ten minutes in the first half.
 
Allen came to within one of the 36-35 lead at the end of the first half. Mosley found his rhythm and converted an and-one play that extended the Kentucky State lead to a six-point 46-60 at 12:52 in the second half. Jacobs hit a three-pointer to go 3-of-3 at long range for the night, giving his team a 72-59 lead. 
 
The final points of the night came on a dunk from Jacobs to secure an 82-72 victory. Chase Cook and Cameron Sembly of Allen Yellow Jackets led their scoring effort with 24 and 18 points, respectively. Kentucky State’s Shamon Mosley led the Thorobreds with 20 points and six rebounds and Montrell Jacobs added another 19 points. Andrews and Brooks each contributed nine rebounds in the win.
 
Up Next: Kentucky State will face Albany State on Monday, Feb. 27, at 12 noon.

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The gym had an electric atmosphere as the on-court action of the women’s teams lived up to the hype with Benedict staving off a late-game surge by Allen to win 73-66.

Benedict’s Madison Golden led all scorers with 26 points to go with 10 rebounds. Taylor Christmas had 19 for the Tigers.

Allen was led by Cardrina Nolen’s 16 points and eight rebounds, followed by Keyshuna Fair with 14, Destinee Jameson-Whitefield with 13 and Jazeem Bethea with 11.

The Tigers were able to build a sizeable lead in the third with an offensive explosion as they outscored the Yellow Jackets 32-13 during that period.

Benedict head coach James Rice said it started with the defense and led to some easy baskets on the offensive end.

The Yellow Jackets kept themselves in the game thanks to fourth quarter pressure from Bethea. The senior had three steals in the period and sparked a comeback as Allen was suddenly down just ten.

Allen head coach Toccara Toland said that Bethea is the engine that makes the Yellow Jackets go.

“Jaz is a special kid,” she said. “The team goes where she goes so whenever she picks it up, the team just follows her lead.”

Benedict was still able to get some keep stops down the stretch and hang on to get the win.

Tigers head coach James Rice said he’s proud of what the rivalry has become and feels Benedict has to keep holding up their end of the bargain and make each game competitive.

Toland said she feels the rivalry is great not just for the city but for the conference as well.

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COLUMBIA, S.C. — The Benedict Tigers pulled away from a close game down the stretch to defeat rival Allen University 67-60 on Saturday afternoon in Allen’s John Hurst Adams Gymnasium.
 
The Yellow Jackets had a one-point lead in the tight contest with 5:22 left to play. That’s when the Tigers went on a 9-2 run for a 54-48 lead with 3:18 remaining. After the Yellow Jackets hit a pair of free throws to cut the lead to four points, Malachi McCoy answered with a dunk, and Brandon Beidleman knocked down a 3-pointer after an Allen turnover to give the Tigers a 59-50 lead with 1:43 left to play.
 
Deshawn Bartley led the Tigers with 14 points, going 9-for-10 at the free-throw line. McCoy grabbed a team-high 12 rebounds.
 
The Tigers improve to 10-7 overall and 8-4 in the SIAC with their fifth straight win. Allen falls to 2-15 overall and 2-10 in the SIAC.
 
Benedict travels to take on Edward Waters on Monday and will wrap up their six-game road trip with a game at Savannah State on Wednesday.

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After the Wildcats’ Jamal Reynoldsknifed into the lane for a bucket to tie the game with 36 seconds in the first half. The Tigers (9-7/7-4 Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference East) downed a triple with seven seconds and then they busted out of halftime with 10 of the opening 11 points to race a 43-30 advantage with 16:41 left. FVSU was able only able to get back to within nine points, 47-38, in a K.J. Doucet layup at 12:37 and lone time under double figures the rest of the night.

Doucet finished the night with a FVSU-high 17 points. Khadim Samb, Reynolds and Pierre Mitchell all chipped in 10 points. Reynolds and Samb had six and five rebounds, while Mitchell dished five assists.

Dontavius King dumped in 19 points and grabbed eight rebounds to lead the Benedict effort. The Tigers held the home team to 30.5% from the field (18 of 59) and pulled down 27 defensive rebounds.

FVSU had its success in the first half where it held two different five-point leads, 20:15 at 7:54 and 25-20 with 3:45.

The Wildcats will welcome the rival Golden Rams of Albany State Saturday night, Jan. 21, for Winter Homecoming. The men’s tip is set for 8 p.m.

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Here is the FCS top 10 in its entirety.

1) NC Central – 50
2) Jackson State – 45
3) Florida A&M –  39
4) North Carolina A&T – 36
5) Southern – 30
6) Alabama State – 25
7) Prairie View – 17
8)Hampton – 13
8)Howard – 13
10) Alcorn State  – 2

At the Division II level, Benedict College finishes the season on top. BC had a historic season, claiming its first SIAC Championship and Division II playoff spot while going 12-0 in the regular season.

The second and third spots to Virginia Union and Fayetteville State, both CIAA teams that lost in the first round of the NCAA D2 playoffs. VUU received one more second-place vote, however. 

Rounding out the top five are Fort Valley State and Tuskegee. 

1) Benedict – 50
2) VUU – 43
3) FSU – 42
4) Fort Valley – 33
5) Tuskegee – 32
6) Albany State – 20
7) Bowie State –15
8) Virginia State – 13
9) Lane College – 6
10) Kentucky State – 2

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