DALLAS (Sept. 27, 2025) — One of the most anticipated events on the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) calendar returns Saturday night as Grambling State and Prairie View A&M square off in the annual State Fair Classic at the historic Cotton Bowl. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m., with both programs entering the rivalry clash full of confidence and momentum.

For Grambling State (3-1), the storyline has been resilience. The Tigers are coming off back-to-back come-from-behind victories, including a thrilling overtime win over Kentucky State and a gritty late drive to defeat East Texas A&M. Under the leadership of quarterback C’Zavian Teasett, Grambling has established itself as one of the SWAC West’s most dangerous teams.

Prairie View A&M (2-2), meanwhile, has shown a renewed spark under first-year head coach Tremaine Jackson. After retooling the roster and instilling a hard-nosed identity, the Panthers are determined to be a factor in the division race. With a balanced offense led by quarterback Tevin Carter and running back Chase Bingmon, Prairie View has the tools to make Saturday’s Classic a statement game.

Grambling’s Dynamic Offense

The Tigers have leaned heavily on the versatility of Teasett, who has quickly emerged as the team’s offensive engine. Through four games, the sophomore quarterback has passed for 665 yards and six touchdowns while adding another 114 rushing yards and three scores on the ground. His dual-threat ability has been the difference in Grambling’s tight contests, keeping defenses off balance and giving head coach Hue Jackson the flexibility to open up the playbook.

Wide receiver Keith Jones Jr. has been one of Teasett’s most reliable targets, flashing big-play ability with 96 yards and two touchdowns against Kentucky State. Complementing him in the backfield is Byron Eaton Jr., whose explosive 54-yard touchdown run against East Texas A&M showcased Grambling’s depth at skill positions.

Prairie View’s Ground Attack

If Prairie View A&M is to end Grambling’s recent momentum, it will come through the legs of Chase Bingmon. The junior running back has been a workhorse, racking up 328 rushing yards on 54 carries. His ability to consistently pick up tough yards helps control tempo, shorten games, and keep Prairie View’s defense fresh.

Quarterback Tevin Carter adds another layer of unpredictability. With 327 passing yards and 171 rushing yards, Carter’s dual-threat profile forces defenses to account for both his arm and legs. His decision-making under pressure could be a swing factor if the game turns into a fourth-quarter nail-biter.

Keys to the Game

• Grambling’s Offensive Line vs. Prairie View’s Front Seven: The Tigers’ line must protect Teasett and give him time to exploit mismatches downfield. Prairie View’s defensive front has been opportunistic, and winning the battle at the line of scrimmage will dictate pace.

• Turnovers: In a rivalry game often decided by momentum, ball security looms large. Grambling has leaned on clutch plays late, but Prairie View will look to capitalize on any miscues.

• Special Teams: In the past, the State Fair Classic has swung on big returns and late field goals. Both coaching staffs know the importance of hidden yardage in this rivalry.

Players to Watch

• C’Zavian Teasett, QB, Grambling State: The Tigers’ catalyst, Teasett’s dual-threat playmaking could tilt the game in Grambling’s favor.

• Chase Bingmon, RB, Prairie View A&M: A steady force who will be tasked with wearing down Grambling’s defense.

• Tevin Carter, QB, Prairie View A&M: His ability to extend plays with his legs and keep drives alive will be pivotal.

What’s at Stake

Beyond the pageantry of the State Fair Classic, this matchup carries early SWAC West implications. Grambling is aiming to build on its strong start and assert itself as a legitimate division contender, while Prairie View looks to announce its return to relevance under a new coaching regime.

With two dual-threat quarterbacks, a workhorse back, and plenty of tradition surrounding the Cotton Bowl stage, Saturday promises to deliver another thrilling chapter in this storied rivalry.

Prediction: Expect a hard-fought battle into the fourth quarter, with big plays and defensive adjustments shaping the outcome. Grambling’s late-game experience may give them a slight edge, but Prairie View’s balanced attack makes this one of the most even matchups of the season.