At the beginning of every season, historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) tour within the tri-state area to help bring the recognition these schools deserve. Naturally, being in the media mecca will help intensify coverage and broadcast to an audience that may not have once been fond of HBCUs. That said, the experience at Saturday's inaugural Brick City HBCU Classic at Red Bull Arena was captivating and electrifying throughout the event. It began with the hypnotizing band and their dance routines. The music combined with the delicious food served all accounted for an unbelievable experience. Most importantly, a unique experience that many don’t have the privilege of experiencing.
“I thought it was outstanding and Kudos to the NFL Network for being a part of this,” Grambling State head coach Hue Jackson states. “I’m grateful for all of the hospitality here in New Jersey. All of our players have unbelievable experience prior to and through the game.”
“I thought everything was first class and I hope they continue this game in the future and truly see what Grambling State truly is,” Jackson continues. “ Most importantly, I hope they saw a product that they really liked.”
“I thought it was outstanding and Kudos to the NFL Network for being a part of this,” Grambling State head coach Hue Jackson states. “I’m grateful for all of the hospitality here in New Jersey. All of our players have unbelievable experience prior to and through the game.” pic.twitter.com/e6KDdvqkRr
— John “Woods” Armwood III (@J_Armwood908) September 4, 2023
Details of the Game
On the field, both Grambling State and Hampton put on a performance for the ages. The game was a thriller and came down to the very last possession of the game. Although many believed there were controversial calls towards the end of the game that helped determine the outcome, there were still positives to build off for both teams. The Hampton Pirates managed to pull out the victory over the Tigers, 35-31.
Throughout the game, it appeared to be back and forth, however the key players who stood out for the Pirates to help secure the win were quarterback Christopher Zellus and running back Darran Butts. In the second half, Zellus took the game by storm and provided contributions through the air and on the ground. It appeared anytime the Pirates needed to make a play he continued to step up. Zellus completed 14-of-21 passes for 155 yards and two scores while rushing for 125 yards with two touchdowns.
“When I talk to Chris, I told him that he’s matured because when he threw the interception but came back the following drive and answered by scoring on the read play,” Hampton head coach Robert Prunty explains. “The biggest thing is when you know a guy is building his confidence, you always want to encourage him.”
Overall, the game was a shootout and came down to whoever made the least mistakes. There’s no secret both teams had immense respect for one another, however the Pirates proved to gain momentum in the right moments and gather more opportunities on the field. Although the Tigers fell to 0-1, they look to gear up and get ready to play LSU on the ninth of September. The Pirates will gear up to take on Norfolk State University.
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