WASHINGTON, D.C. — It was a true homecoming for the Howard University football team, as they handled Morgan State University in a thrilling 33–27 victory at Greene Stadium. 

Playing in Greene Stadium for the first time this season, the Bison snapped a three-game losing streak and opened Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) play with a statement win — one that embodied the grit, resilience, and unity that define Howard football — all before a sold out Homecoming crowd. 

A Celebration of Culture, Tradition, and Star Power

Homecoming at Howard is more than a game — it’s a cultural experience steeped in history, tradition, and undeniable Bison pride. This year’s crowd of nearly 10,000 was treated to a spectacle that blended athletics, school spirit, and star power. 

In addition to alumni and students, notable guests in the house included U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock, Washington Commanders wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr., and actors Cedric the Entertainer and Anthony Anderson (BFA ’22), who served as honorary captains and were featured at midfield for the ceremonial coin toss, setting the tone for a day that was truly “One of One.” Several traditions were honored during the game, from the appearance of alumni band members and cheerleaders to the formal introduction of the Royal Court at halftime. 

A Homecoming Game to Remember 

From kickoff to the final whistle, the game reflected the fierce rivalry between Howard and Morgan State — a matchup built on passion and perseverance. 

Freshman tight end Xavier Newsom gave Howard the early lead with a nine-yard touchdown pass from graduate quarterback Tyriq Starks, following a 42-yard kickoff return from John Washington III. 

The game went back and forth before Morgan took the lead late in the fourth quarter, going up 27-21 after a missed point after attempt. With less than two minutes in the game, Starks connected with wide receiver Breylin Smith on a 16-yard touchdown pass, tying the game at 27. However, Howard’s point after attempt was also no good, sending the game into overtime.  

Perseverance Personified 

When Morgan State missed a 29-yard field goal on its first overtime possession, the Bison seized the opportunity. On the very next play, sophomore running back Anthony Reagan Jr. took the handoff and ran 25 yards to the end zone, sealing the victory and sending the Homecoming crowd into a frenzy as a dazzling light show at Greene began. Reagan finished the day with 122 rushing yards and two touchdowns.  

For us, it was a character win — one that revealed a lot about this football team. It’s never over.

Head coach Larry Scott praised his team’s resilience after the game. 

“The biggest thing for us was coming out of the lull of a three-game losing streak and playing good football,” Scott said. “For us, it was a character win — one that revealed a lot about this football team. It’s never over. You’ve got to go the distance knowing you’re built for it. 

“We’ve been tested. We’re built right,” Scott added, acknowledging that there’s no room for error as the Bison’s four remaining contests are against MEAC teams — each hoping to represent the conference in the Celebration Bowl in December. 

“It’s playoff football from here on out, and we expect that every week,” Scott said.