As the new HBCU football season approaches, North Carolina Central University’s (NCCU) football team is gearing up with a renewed sense of determination. Despite a successful 2023 campaign with nine wins and a national FCS ranking, the team fell short of their ultimate goal: the MEAC championship and a trip to the Celebration Bowl.
Replacing a Star Quarterback
One of the most significant challenges facing NCCU is replacing its star quarterback, Davius Richard. Trei Oliver was candid about this transition, acknowledging the difficulty but expressing confidence in Walker Harris.
“I think Walker Harris probably could have started at a couple of the programs in the conference,” Oliver said. “I’m confident with him because our OC, Matt Leone, has done a great job developing him. Walker is different; he could have transferred out but stayed and learned from Davius. Arm talent-wise, I think he has a better arm than Davius, but he’s not going to run the ball like Davius did.”
Harris played in all 12 games last year, including a standout performance against HBCU Mississippi Valley where he threw five touchdowns. His commitment and preparation have set the stage for a strong season ahead.
Navigating the Transfer Portal
In today’s college football landscape, the transfer portal presents both opportunities and challenges. Oliver highlighted the importance of maintaining strong relationships and treating players well to keep them engaged and committed to the program.
“I lost about five or six starters, all-conference players, to other schools,” he shared. “But at the end of the day, we have to move on and continue to recruit and develop new talent. While they’re on your campus, you have to treat them right.”
Oliver’s approach to the portal is strategic, focusing on high school recruits and only dipping into the portal when there’s an existing relationship with a player or coach. This philosophy ensures that the team culture remains intact and that new additions fit seamlessly into the program.
Respect and Expectations in the MEAC
North Carolina Central has built a reputation for excellence in not only HBCU football but also on a national stage, with 19 wins over the past two seasons. Oliver emphasized the respect that the conference commands and the high level of competition among its teams.
“People respect our brand of football here in the MEAC. We play a really good brand of football,” he said. “This conference has so many talented coaches, which makes the competition stronger.”
The Chip on It’s Shoulder
Despite their recent success, the Eagles still feel they have something to prove. Oliver made it clear that the chip on their shoulder is not going anywhere.
“The chip on the shoulder is not going anywhere,” he asserted. “I coach this game to win championships. For us in Durham, it’s about championships.”
Looking Ahead to High-Profile Matchups
The 2024 season includes a high-profile game against UNC, providing an opportunity for NCCU to showcase its talent not only at the HBCU/FCS level but on a larger stage. Oliver views these matchups as essential for player development and exposure.
“For our guys to have aspirations to play on the next level, this is an opportunity to show NFL scouts their skill set,” he said. “When scouts come in our building, they want to watch us play teams like UCLA and Carolina.”
As NCCU prepares for the upcoming season, it does so with a clear focus on its goals, a determination to overcome obstacles, and a commitment to excellence that defines its program.
The Eagles are ready to take flight and prove that they are a force to be reckoned with in the MEAC and beyond.