STWF  | GRAMBLING, La. | Nov. 8, 2025 — The Grambling State Tigers return home to Eddie G. Robinson Memorial Stadium on Saturday for a pivotal SWAC showdown against the Bethune-Cookman Wildcats. Kickoff is set for 3:00 PM ET, and both programs enter the matchup eager to make a statement as the regular season winds down.

Grambling State (6–3, 4–1 SWAC) has emerged as one of the most consistent teams in the conference, while Bethune-Cookman (4–5, 2–4 SWAC) arrives in Louisiana as a scrappy opponent capable of pulling an upset when overlooked.

According to recent data simulations, Grambling holds a 66% probability of victory, while Bethune-Cookman carries a 34% chance — a reflection of both the Tigers’ home-field advantage and their recent momentum in SWAC play.

Grambling State: Protecting Home Turf

The Tigers’ season has been built on a balanced offensive approach and a defense that thrives on takeaways. Head coach Hue Jackson has crafted a unit that plays disciplined football and controls the line of scrimmage — a recipe that has kept Grambling firmly in the SWAC title race.

Quarterback Julian Calvez has continued to develop as the centerpiece of the offense, combining mobility with improved decision-making. Through nine games, he’s thrown for over 1,900 yards and 14 touchdowns, while adding nearly 300 rushing yards and five scores on the ground. His dual-threat ability has allowed the Tigers to keep defenses honest.

On the ground, Floyd Chalk III remains the workhorse. Averaging over 5.1 yards per carry, Chalk has eclipsed the 700-yard mark this season and has been vital in setting the tone early in games. Behind a veteran offensive line, Grambling has controlled time of possession and worn down opponents late.

Defensively, the Tigers have been opportunistic — forcing an average of two turnovers per game and holding opponents under 21 points in four of their last five contests. Linebacker Joshua Reed anchors the unit with his sideline-to-sideline range, while safety Kevin Thomas Jr. has been a ball hawk in the secondary, leading the team in interceptions.

For Grambling, the key to victory will be avoiding costly penalties and maintaining composure against a Bethune-Cookman squad that has shown flashes of explosiveness.

Bethune-Cookman: Playing the Spoiler Role

The Wildcats have had an up-and-down season under head coach Raymond Woodie Jr., but their resilience and ability to compete in close games have made them a dangerous opponent.

Bethune-Cookman’s offense is led by quarterback Walter Simmons III, who has quietly put together a strong campaign. Simmons has thrown for 1,700 yards and 13 touchdowns while rushing for nearly 400 yards, giving the Wildcats a multidimensional look.

Running back Javion Towns has provided spark and consistency out of the backfield, while wide receiver Marcus Riley continues to be the team’s most dynamic weapon, averaging 16 yards per reception.

Defensively, Bethune-Cookman has struggled at times, particularly against the run. Opponents have averaged 187 rushing yards per game, and that could spell trouble against a physical Grambling rushing attack. Still, the Wildcats’ defense is aggressive and capable of forcing big plays — cornerback Omari Hill-Robinson leads the team with three interceptions and has been one of the SWAC’s most reliable defensive backs.

If the Wildcats can slow Grambling’s running game and generate turnovers early, they have the potential to keep this contest close deep into the second half.

Keys to Victory

For Grambling State:

• Establish the run early behind Chalk and wear down the Wildcats’ front seven.

• Keep Calvez protected to allow time for deep passing plays.

• Limit turnovers and unnecessary penalties that could swing momentum.

For Bethune-Cookman:

• Utilize Simmons’ dual-threat ability to stretch Grambling’s defense.

• Win third down — both offensively and defensively — to sustain drives.

• Play opportunistic defense and capitalize on any mistakes from Grambling’s offense.

Prediction: Grambling State 31, Bethune-Cookman 20

While Bethune-Cookman has shown the grit to hang tough with top-tier opponents, Grambling State’s overall balance and home-field advantage make them the safer pick. Expect the Tigers to rely heavily on their running game to control tempo, while Calvez makes key plays through the air to keep the Wildcats off balance.

Bethune-Cookman’s offense will produce some explosive moments behind Simmons, but ultimately, Grambling’s defensive discipline and offensive rhythm should prove too much.

With the postseason picture taking shape, the Tigers are in no mood for surprises — and Saturday’s contest in Eddie G. Robinson Memorial Stadium should reaffirm why Grambling remains a SWAC contender heading into the final stretch.