Alabama State Aims for Historic 10th Win in 101st Turkey Day Classic Showdown

The Alabama State Hornets host the Tuskegee Golden Tigers today. The 101st Turkey Day Classic kicks off at 2:05 p.m. CT on Thanksgiving. This is one of the oldest traditions in all of college football.

Alabama State enters with a 9-2 record. They are chasing their first 10-win season in over two decades. Tuskegee provides the final hurdle with a 4-6 record of their own.

Hornets’ Stellar Season Reaches Climax on Thanksgiving

Alabama State has not won 10 games since 2004. That was also the year they last won the SWAC championship. Head coach Eddie Robinson Jr. has engineered a remarkable turnaround in his fourth season.

The Hornets finished 7-1 in conference play this year. They are riding a five-game winning streak into today’s finale. Quarterback Te’Sean Smoot will lead the offense in his final game of the season.

According to ESPN’s coverage, the Hornets are heavy favorites. Recent victories over Arkansas Pine-Bluff and Mississippi Valley State were decisive. The team’s defense has been particularly dominant during this stretch.

Tuskegee Looks to Spoil the Party in Historic Rivalry

The Tuskegee Golden Tigers represent a proud challenge. They compete in NCAA Division II within the SIAC. Coach Aaron James’s squad would love to end its season with a major upset.

Tuskegee plays its home games at Abbott Memorial Alumni Stadium. While their record is modest, the rivalry’s history adds major significance. The Golden Tigers have been part of this classic for years.

Predictions suggest a lopsided contest in favor of Alabama State. Yet, the unpredictable nature of a historic rivalry always brings potential for surprise. The Golden Tigers will play for pride and tradition.

A Century of HBCU Tradition and Family Gatherings

The Turkey Day Classic is far more than a game. It is a cornerstone of Thanksgiving for many families across the South. The event first kicked off in 1924, making it the oldest HBCU football classic.

Alabama State leads the all-time series 49-36-3. The game has been a cultural touchstone for generations. Iconic figures like Muhammad Ali have been in attendance throughout its storied history.

Today’s 101st edition continues that sacred legacy. It celebrates community, education, and athletic excellence at two legendary institutions. The matchup is a vibrant display of HBCU pride and pageantry.

Alabama State’s quest for a historic 10th win defines this year’s Turkey Day Classic. A victory would cement this season as one of the best in modern program history. It would be a fitting capstone to a century of unforgettable Thanksgiving football.

A quick knowledge drop for you

What is the Turkey Day Classic?

The Turkey Day Classic is the oldest HBCU football classic. It began in 1924 and is played annually on Thanksgiving Day. The game traditionally features Alabama State University and Tuskegee University.

How can I watch the game today?

The game is being broadcast live on SWAC TV. Fans can also listen on the Hornets Radio Network, specifically WVAS FM 90.7. Kickoff is scheduled for 2:05 p.m. Central Time.

What is Alabama State’s current record?

Alabama State’s football team has a 9-2 record entering today’s game. They finished the SWAC regular season with a 7-1 conference record. A win today would give them a 10-2 final record.

Why is reaching 10 wins significant for Alabama State?

The program has not achieved a 10-win season since 2004. That season ended with a SWAC championship victory. Reaching 10 wins would mark a major milestone for Coach Eddie Robinson Jr.’s rebuilding effort.

Who is favored to win the 101st Classic?

Alabama State is heavily favored to defeat Tuskegee in this matchup. Predictions from analysts point to a potentially lopsided score. The talent gap between the FCS-level Hornets and Division II Tuskegee is considerable.