The 2026 MEAC/SWAC Challenge drew 1.2 million viewers on ABC as Howard defeated Alabama A&M, highlighting strong national interest in HBCU football.

South Carolina State holds off Alabama State for No. 1 in the BC+ HBCU football rankings, while Texas Southern surges and several Week 1 showdowns could shake up the Top 10.

Ja'Shawn Scroggins threw for 315 yards and three touchdowns, including a 51-yard go-ahead strike with 2:41 remaining, as Howard gave Ted White his first victory as a head coach.