HBCU football: Who has the biggest brand?

Based on the criteria for evaluating a football program’s brand, the top five HBCU football brands are:

1. Grambling State University:
   • Historical Success: Over 400 wins under Coach Eddie Robinson, numerous conference championships.
   • NFL Talent: Produced many NFL players, including Hall of Famers.
   • Cultural Impact: The Grambling State University Tiger Marching Band and significant media coverage.
   • Signature Game: The Bayou Classic against Southern University.
2. Southern University:
   • Historical Success: Multiple SWAC championships and a strong football tradition.
   • NFL Talent: Notable alumni include NFL players like Harold Carmichael and Aeneas Williams. (Editor’s note: Both men, as well as Mel Blount, are Pro Football Hall of Famers. AI still has a lot to learn.)
   • Rivalry: The Bayou Classic against Grambling State, a high-profile annual event.
   • Marching Band: The Human Jukebox, renowned for its performances.
3. Florida A&M University (FAMU):
   • Historical Success: Rich history with multiple national championships and conference titles.
   • NFL Talent: Produced NFL stars such as Bob Hayes and Nate Newton.
   • Cultural Impact: The Marching 100 band is internationally acclaimed.
   • Signature Game: The Florida Classic against Bethune-Cookman University.
4. Jackson State University:
   • Historical Success: Numerous SWAC championships and a strong football legacy.
   • NFL Talent: Produced several NFL players, including Hall of Famer Walter Payton.
   • Recent Developments: High-profile hiring of Deion Sanders as head coach, raising the program’s profile.
   • Fan Engagement: Strong and loyal fan base, extensive media coverage.
5. North Carolina A&T State University:
   • Historical Success: Dominance in the MEAC with multiple championships and Celebration Bowl victories.
   • NFL Talent: Players like Tarik Cohen have made it to the NFL.
   • Cultural Impact: The Blue and Gold Marching Machine adds to the game day experience.
   • Community Influence: Strong alumni support and significant engagement in community initiatives.

These programs excel in historical success, professional player production, cultural impact, media presence, and fan engagement, making them the top brands in HBCU football.

The thing about AI that makes it different from a search engine is the fact that you can have a conversation with it. After it gave me its top five, we asked about two more programs: South Carolina State and Tennessee State. Here’s what it came up with:

Tennessee State University (TSU) does have significant credentials and a strong football program, which could indeed place it among the top HBCU football brands. Here’s an assessment of TSU’s credentials:

1. Historical Success:
   • TSU has a storied history with multiple national championships and a strong record in the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC), where it competes alongside non-HBCUs.
   • The program has produced numerous All-Americans and has a legacy of success on the field.
2. NFL Talent:
   • TSU has a rich history of producing NFL talent, including Hall of Famers Richard Dent and Claude Humphrey.
   • Other notable NFL players from TSU include Ed “Too Tall” Jones, one of the most famous defensive linemen in NFL history.
3. Cultural Impact:
   • The TSU Aristocrat of Bands is well-known and adds a significant cultural element to the football program, enhancing the game day atmosphere.
   • TSU’s football program has a dedicated and passionate fan base that supports the team both at home and on the road.
4. Signature Games and Rivalries:
   • TSU participates in several high-profile classic games, such as the Southern Heritage Classic against Jackson State and the John Merritt Classic.
   • These games draw large crowds and significant media attention, showcasing TSU’s football program.
5. Media Coverage and Exposure:
   • TSU’s football games receive substantial media coverage, including television broadcasts and online streaming.
   • The program’s rich history and successful alumni are frequently highlighted in sports media.

Given these credentials, Tennessee State University does indeed have a strong case for being included among the top HBCU football brands. Taking this into account, the revised list of top HBCU football brands, incorporating TSU, would be:

1. Grambling State University
2. Southern University
3. Florida A&M University (FAMU)
4. Jackson State University
5. Tennessee State University

South Carolina State University, while also prestigious, might be slightly edged out in this ranking due to TSU’s significant impact and broader recognition. Nonetheless, both programs have a strong claim to be considered among the elite in HBCU football.