Hampton University and Morgan State University are set to kick off their 2024 football season this Saturday at Armstrong Stadium, renewing a historic HBCU football rivalry dating back to 1922. This game marks their 66th meeting, and both HBCU teams have plenty to prove.
New Leadership at Hampton
Hampton University is starting the season under interim head coach Trent Boykin, who brings nearly 30 years of coaching experience to the table. Boykin, previously Hampton’s running backs and special teams coach, now steps up to lead the Pirates with a focus on stability and winning.
Hampton’s offense will rely heavily on key players like running back Elijah Burris, who averaged 114.7 yards per game last season, and quarterback Chris Zellous, a dual-threat talent with over 2,000 total yards and 22 touchdowns. These players will be crucial if Hampton wants to improve on its 12th-place preseason ranking in the CAA and make a statement in HBCU football.
Morgan State Banking on Smith
Morgan State University, coming off a 4-6 season, is looking to sophomore quarterback Tahj Smith to ignite its offense. Smith, who took over as the starter in the final four games last year, brings a dual-threat capability, having thrown for 426 yards and three touchdowns while adding 159 yards and two scores on the ground. Morgan State head coach Damon Wilson has named Smith the starting quarterback, banking on his versatility to boost an offense that struggled in 2023.
Smith’s ability to connect with his receivers and execute new offensive coordinator Apollo Wright’s game plan will be critical for Morgan State. Improving on last season’s average of 16.1 points per game will be essential for the Bears to compete in MEAC and make a mark in HBCU football.
What to Watch
Hampton University has shown a knack for winning close games, finishing 4-1 in contests decided by seven points or fewer last season. Morgan State University, with a 4-4 record in similar situations, will need to find more consistency. Turnovers could play a major role in this game; Morgan State’s -12 turnover ratio from last season is a vulnerability that Hampton might exploit.
Morgan State’s defense, regarded as one of the best in the MEAC, will be pivotal. Led by standouts Eric Hunter and Elijah Williams, this unit will aim to disrupt Hampton’s offensive rhythm and give Tahj Smith more opportunities to drive the Bears’ offense.
The Stakes
Hampton University is picked 12th in the CAA preseason rankings, and a strong start is essential to exceed expectations. Historically, Hampton has had success against rivals like Howard, Grambling, and North Carolina A&T. A win against Morgan State University would set a positive tone for Hampton and bolster its position in HBCU football.
Bottom Line
This game is about more than just kicking off the season; it’s about setting a tone for the rest of the year. Both Hampton and Morgan State have new dynamics and are eager to prove themselves. With a long-standing rivalry and significant history in HBCU football, Hampton vs. Morgan State is set to be a hard-fought contest that will reveal where these two teams stand early in the 2024 season. The game will air on FloSports.