Fayetteville State University (Grade: C+)
- Preseason Rank: 3rd
- Final Standing: 7th (3-4 conference, 4-5 overall)
- Offensive Ranking: 6th in Total Offense (334.7 yards/game, 30 TDs)
- Defensive Ranking: 7th in Total Defense (316.1 yards/game, 30 TDs allowed)
Highlights:
- Secured a crucial win against Johnson C. Smith, impacting the Golden Bulls’ conference standing.
- Despite moments of excellence, the Broncos struggled with consistency.
Summary: Fayetteville State did not fully capitalize on their potential this season. However, their victory over a top team reflects the depth of competition among HBCU programs in the CIAA.
Bowie State University (Grade: C)
- Preseason Rank: 5th
- Final Standing: 8th (3-4 conference, 4-6 overall)
- Offensive Ranking: 5th in Total Offense (344.4 yards/game, 35 TDs)
- Defensive Ranking: 5th in Total Defense (309.6 yards/game, 30 TDs allowed)
Highlights:
- Showcased strong individual talents but lacked cohesion in crucial games.
- Competed fiercely but ultimately fell short of preseason expectations.
Summary: Bowie State’s season experienced a mix of highs and lows. This highlights the competitive nature of HBCU football within the CIAA.
Lincoln University (PA) (Grade: D)
- Preseason Rank: 8th
- Final Standing: 9th (2-5 conference, 2-8 overall)
- Offensive Ranking: 11th in Total Offense (217.0 yards/game, 17 TDs)
- Defensive Ranking: 10th in Total Defense (387.3 yards/game, 47 TDs allowed)
Highlights:
- Zyaire Tart earned CIAA Special Teams Player of the Year. He brought nearly 700 kick return yards. His performance added excitement to the Lions’ season.
Summary: Lincoln University faced challenges but had standout moments that demonstrated the potential within HBCU athletics.
Elizabeth City State University (Grade: D)
- Preseason Rank: 10th
- Final Standing: 10th (1-6 conference, 3-7 overall)
- Offensive Ranking: 9th in Total Offense (226.3 yards/game, 14 TDs)
- Defensive Ranking: 8th in Total Defense (336.7 yards/game, 28 TDs allowed)
Highlights:
- Recorded a non-conference win over Chowan, showcasing resilience.
Summary: Elizabeth City State faced a challenging season and will be looking for a new head coach.
Bluefield State University (Grade: D)
- Preseason Rank: 11th
- Final Standing: 0-7 in conference, 1-9 overall
- Offensive Ranking: 10th in Total Offense (223.4 yards/game, 7 TDs)
- Defensive Ranking: 11th in Total Defense (423.1 yards/game, 48 TDs allowed)
Highlights:
- Struggled both offensively and defensively, finishing last in total defense and second to last in total offense within the CIAA.
- Lone win came against an out-of-conference opponent, providing some silver lining to an otherwise difficult season.
Summary: Bluefield State faced significant challenges in its season, reflected by the winless CIAA record. While the team is still building its program, the gap in competitiveness compared to other CIAA and HBCU teams was evident. The grade reflects the need for substantial growth and improvement to compete within the conference.
Conclusion
The 2024 CIAA football season was a testament to the talent and competitiveness of HBCU football programs. Teams like Virginia Union and Johnson C. Smith University not only exceeded expectations but also showcased the high level of play within the CIAA. The season featured record-breaking performances. It included strategic coaching and passionate play. These elements reinforced the importance of HBCUs in the landscape of college football.
The CIAA continues to grow and evolve. The commitment to excellence among its HBCU institutions promises even more thrilling seasons ahead. This solidifies the conference’s reputation as a cornerstone of collegiate athletics.