WASHINGTON – In what will go down as arguably the longest MEAC/SWAC Challenge in series history, starting at 7:38 p.m. and ending at 1:18 a.m., including three weather delays totaling two hours, the Howard Bison battled the Alabama State Hornets and succumbed 23-13 in the Cricket MEAC/SWAC Challenge Kickoff at Center Parc Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia.
“To be invited to participate in the MEAC/SWAC Challenge is a great achievement in and of itself,” said Wayne A. I. Frederick, president of Howard University. “Our debut in this series was nothing short of magnificent. Despite the outcome of the game, I am proud of our team’s performance and how the players represented our University.”
The Walt Disney Company and Marvel Studios teamed up with ESPN Events to incorporate elements of the highly anticipated film, “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” into the game presentation at the stadium and during ESPN’s national primetime telecast. With “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” opening in U.S. theaters November 11, fans were treated to preview clips of the film both inside the stadium on video boards and within the national ESPN telecast. “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” is the prequel to the original movie starring beloved Howard alum, Chadwick A. Boseman.
The game presentation began with a special tease open written and narrated by award-winning journalist William C. Rhoden of ESPN’s Andscape, connecting the spirit of Black Panther’s fictional country of Wakanda to the real-life reflection of the city of Atlanta and the importance of HBCUs within the Black community. See the presentation here.
Howard took the field sporting the first Jumpman uniforms for the Howard University athlete program since announcing a 20-year partnership with the Jordan Brand in early August.
The Bison, making their first ever appearance in the game, were led defensively by linebacker Jevin Jackson (MEAC MVP) who totaled six total tackles, a blocked punt and a recovery. While Howard was able to force three turnovers, the team was not able to capitalize on any of the Hornets mistakes with points, which proved to be the difference in the game.
“It was great to get back out there,” said Larry Scott, Howard football head coach during the MEAC Weekly Teleconference. “To have that type of environment despite all the delays was great. There are some things we still need to work on and continue to clean up, but we’re trending in the right direction. I’m excited in the direction we’re going and looking forward to this weekend.”
Offensively, quarterback Quinton Williams led the Bison, going 17-32, 147 yards and an interception. Seven of those receptions went to sophomore wide receiver Richie Ilarraza, who tied a MEAC/SWAC Challenge record for most receptions in a game to go along with 36 yards in front of 21,088 enthusiastic fans and supporters.
“This is something you don’t want to take for granted,” said Richie Ilarraza, father of the wide receiver. “Moving forward, I hope HU continues this journey. I hope that people are able to see that these power five schools do not only get the glory. These HBCUs are a lot of times overshadowed. To come and experience an HBCU game, it’s like no other.”
At halftime, prior to the Showtime Marching Band making their second showing of the day, The Walt Disney Company’s Mickey Mouse took to center field to show off his drum major skills. Escorted by four Disney team members, Mickey Mouse displayed his best high step march and backbend in an elaborate drum major uniform as part of the Disney on the Yard initiative. Disney on the Yard is dedicated to building a community for HBCU alumni working across The Walt Disney Company and providing meaningful opportunities for students.
Bison from near and far showed up and showed out at the Coca Cola Fan Experience featuring a head-to-head college band jamboree between the Showtime Marching Band and Alabama State’s Mighty Marching Hornets as well as a performance by rapper and Atlanta native, 2 Chains. Fans were also able to pose for pictures at a special Black Panther photo booth.
Prior to the game, the Howard University Alumni Club of Atlanta brought alumni and friends together for a reception at Atlanta Airport Marriott Hotel. Alumni representing clubs from Washington, Memphis, and Columbus came to celebrate.
“I played on the Howard football team in the early ’70s,” said Bruce H. Williams (HU ’74), board president of Bison Express and lifetime member of the Howard University Alumni Association. “I love Howard University, and I [am] happy that we had the opportunity to participate in the MEAC/SWAC Challenge. A little competition is always a great thing.”
With the loss, Howard drops to 0-1 on the season and will travel to Hampton, Virginia to take on the Hampton Pirates in what has been affectionately called “The Battle of the Real HU.”
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