Alabama State vs Jackson State — The HBCU Game of the Year

Jackson State Edges Alabama State in Thriller, 38–34

In what many are calling the HBCU Game of the Year, Jackson State narrowly defeated Alabama State 38–34 in a heart-pounding contest on October 11, 2025. The matchup delivered big plays, lead changes, and clutch finishes that kept fans glued to their seats.

Game Flow & Key Moments

• First Quarter: Jackson State wasted no time, jumping ahead 7–0.
• Second Quarter: Alabama State responded in spades, putting up 13 points while the Tigers added 10, making it a heated battle heading into halftime.
• Third Quarter: Both teams traded blows with 7 points apiece.
• Fourth Quarter: It was a nail-biting finish. Alabama State rallied to score 14, but Jackson State matched them with 14 in the quarter to hold on.

The back-and-forth nature of this game — with neither team ever fully comfortable in control — made it must-watch for HBCU football fans.

Star Performers & Statistics

• Alabama State quarterback Andrew Body completed 20 of 30 passes for 349 yards, with 1 touchdown and 1 interception.
• Jackson State’s JaCobian Morgan torched defenses, going 16 of 23 for 187 yards and 4 touchdowns.
• On the ground, Alabama State ran for 165 yards (33 attempts) with 3 touchdowns.
• Jackson State also made its mark in the run game, tallying 257 rushing yards on 45 carries.
• In the receiving corps:
  • Alabama State’s Jalen Jones hauled in 6 catches for 72 yards and a TD.
    • Jackson State’s Ja’Naylon Dupree added 4 catches for 53 yards and 2 touchdowns.

Field position and turnovers were crucial, but Jackson State’s well-rounded approach and capacity to perform under duress were what ultimately won the game.

Why This Was the HBCU Game of the Year

1. High Stakes in Conference Play
   • Both teams came in with conference aspirations. Jackson State improved to 3–0 in SWAC play, while Alabama State moved to 2–1. This contest had real implications for the title chase.
   • 2. Back-and-forth drama
     • Momentum swung multiple times. Lead changes, quick responses, and big plays defined the game. Every time one team seemed to pull away, the other answered.
     • 3. Star power on display
       • When your quarterback tosses 4 touchdowns in a shootout, and both teams rush for over 150 yards, that’s entertainment. The wide receivers, backs, and QBs all had moments to shine.
       • 4. Fan energy & cultural significance
         • HBCU football thrives on pageantry, school pride, and community. Games like this — tight, emotional, full of fight — bring the best out of alumni, students, and fans. This wasn’t just a game; it was a celebration.

What Fans Should Look for Next

• Jackson State will be eager to carry this win’s momentum through their SWAC schedule. Maintaining consistency — especially in big games — is the next challenge.
• Alabama State showed resilience and explosive offense. Their capacity to bounce back will define their season going forward.
• Keep an eye on special teams: returns, field goal opportunities, and hidden yardage may decide tight games in the stretch.
• Also, injuries and depth will play a role. The wear and tear of high-stakes games begin to show in the second half of the season.