GRAMBLING, La. (Sept. 19, 2025) — Fresh off one of the most thrilling victories in recent program history, the Grambling State Tigers (2-1) will look to ride their momentum into Saturday’s clash against East Texas A&M. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. at Eddie G. Robinson Memorial Stadium, with live coverage on SWAC TV.

The matchup will mark just the second meeting between the two programs, following Grambling’s 35-28 overtime triumph last year in Commerce, Texas. With both teams seeking early-season consistency, the game carries added weight as the first cross-conference FCS matchup of the season between the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) and Southland Conference (SLC).

Grambling State Riding High

The Tigers enter Week 4 brimming with confidence after a 37-31 overtime victory over Kentucky State last weekend. The win showcased Grambling’s offensive firepower and defensive resiliency, as the Tigers piled up 458 total yards.

Quarterback C’zavian Teasett delivered a career performance, throwing for 228 yards and two touchdowns while rushing for 99 yards and adding two more scores on the ground. His dual-threat ability proved decisive, keeping Grambling in the game during early deficits and ultimately leading the last-minute drive that forced overtime.

Redshirt freshman receiver Keith Jones Jr. emerged as a reliable target, hauling in three passes for a career-high 96 yards and two touchdowns. His breakout effort provided a glimpse of what could be a dynamic partnership with Teasett as the season progresses.

Defensively, the spotlight belonged to Tyrell Raby. The veteran defensive back forced a fumble in overtime and returned it 83 yards for the game-winning touchdown, sealing a victory that electrified the Robinson Stadium crowd. It was already the third takeaway of the season for Raby, whose knack for game-changing plays has anchored Grambling’s secondary.

Lions Looking to Regroup

For East Texas A&M (0-2), Saturday’s contest offers a chance to reset after a brutal opening stretch against two Power Four opponents. The Lions fell 45-13 at SMU before being overmatched in a 77-3 defeat to seventh-ranked Florida State.

A bye week provided valuable time to regroup and prepare for FCS competition. Offensively, quarterback Eric Rodriguez will look to steady the Lions’ attack. Through two games, Rodriguez has thrown for 223 yards but has struggled with turnovers, tossing two interceptions while completing just 17 of 35 passes. ETAMU will need sharper execution and ball security to challenge a Grambling defense that thrives on takeaways.

Defensively, the Lions must contend with a Grambling offense that has scored at least 30 points in back-to-back games. With Teasett’s mobility and Jones’ emergence on the outside, East Texas A&M will be tested in both phases.

Protecting the Home Turf

Grambling State’s advantage at Robinson Memorial Stadium is well established. Since the venue opened in 1983, the Tigers boast a 107-38-1 record at home, including 13 unbeaten home seasons. The most recent came in 2019, and since 2021, Grambling has gone 12-4 in Grambling, La.

Head coach Mickey Joseph emphasized the importance of maintaining that edge. “There’s a tradition here of defending home field,” Joseph said. “When you play at Eddie Robinson Stadium, you’re carrying on the legacy of everyone who came before. Our players understand what it means to perform in front of this community.”

Key Storylines to Watch

• Can Teasett stay hot? The Tigers’ quarterback is coming off one of the most complete games of his career, and his decision-making will be critical against a defense desperate to force mistakes.

• Emerging playmakers: With Jones establishing himself as a downfield threat, Grambling’s passing game is adding balance to its rushing attack.

• Raby’s defensive impact: After a highlight-reel game-winner, the senior defensive back will look to extend his streak of big plays.

• Lions’ bounce-back factor: After two tough losses, ETAMU is eager to prove it belongs in the FCS conversation. Execution from Rodriguez and discipline on defense will determine whether the Lions can hang around in Grambling.

The Outlook

Grambling State’s confidence and depth, particularly on defense, make the Tigers the favorites heading into Saturday’s matchup. If Teasett continues his dual-threat dominance and the Tigers’ secondary keeps capitalizing on turnovers, Grambling will be well-positioned to secure its second consecutive victory and improve to 3-1 on the year.

For East Texas A&M, the challenge lies in limiting early mistakes and finding offensive rhythm against one of the SWAC’s most experienced defenses.

With tradition on their side and momentum at their backs, the Tigers aim to add another chapter to their proud home history in front of the Grambling faithful.