NORFOLK, VA – Despite securing its first outright MEAC title in thirty years and competing for the HBCU national title, Howard University’s football team is still seeking more recognition.
“We left some gold out there in Atlanta,” Howard safety Kenny Gallop Jr. told HBCU Gameday of his teams’ loss in the Celebration Bowl to Florida A&M. “We’ve still got that sour taste in our mouth, so that’s been the motivation all offseason.”
Howard University had a notable 2023 season, finishing with a 6-6 overall record and a 4-1 mark in MEAC play. This performance earned it the MEAC regular-season title and secured a place in the Celebration Bowl. Howard excelled both offensively and defensively, ranking second in total offense with an average of 367 yards per game, and holding the second-best defense in the MEAC, allowing just 318 yards per game.
Despite this significant achievement, Howard University is not at the top of the preseason predictions. Howard has been predicted to finish second in the MEAC preseason poll, trailing North Carolina Central. HU earned 92 points, falling short of the NCCU 110 points. Given HU’s impressive 2023 season, is this preseason ranking a fair reflection of its abilities?
The Bison return considerable talent that warrants attention. Graduate running back Jarett Hunter, named the MEAC Preseason Offensive Player of the Year, led the team with over 600 rushing yards and nine touchdowns last season. Hunter also had 25 catches for 257 yards and two additional scores. Gallop Jr., a graduate safety, was recognized as the Preseason Defensive Player of the Year, is one of the top defensive backs in HBCU football and the FCS. Gallop finished 2023 with 59 tackles, four tackles for loss, two interceptions, and two forced fumbles with one recovery.
Howard University’s strength is further highlighted by its multiple first-team selections. Alongside Hunter and Gallop, the first team includes junior running back Eden James, senior wide receiver Kasey Hawthorne, senior guard Darius Fox, senior defensive lineman Jamel Stewart, and senior placekicker Dylan West. This season marks the first time two Howard running backs have been named to the preseason first team. HU also features five players on the second team, including senior wide receiver Richie Ilarraza and redshirt sophomore offensive lineman Tim Artis Jr.
Although Howard faces uncertainty at the quarterback position, with loss of multi-year starter Quinton Williams, its overall depth and proven talent suggest it should not be underestimated. The Bison’s roster, filled with playmakers and leaders, positions it as a strong contender despite the question mark at quarterback.
Given Howard University’s strong performance in 2023 and returning talent, the question remains: should it be ranked higher in the MEAC preseason poll? Its achievements, including its first outright MEAC title in thirty years and a significant role as co-champions in 2022, make a strong case for it being the preseason favorite.
“We still feel like we’re disrespected. You know what I’m saying?” Gallop said before the rankings were released on Tuesday. “When people feel like it was a fluke – and we should have never been there. A lot of people thought (NC) Central was supposed to be there. So we just want to show this year…and just dominate this year and leave no doubt who the best team in the MEAC is.”