LAS VEGAS, NV. | October 25, 2025 – Under the bright lights of Allegiant Stadium, two of the most storied programs in HBCU football are set to write another chapter in their long-standing rivalry. The Grambling State Tigers (4–3, 1–2 SWAC) will face the No. 12 Jackson State Tigers (5–1, 3–0 SWAC) on Saturday afternoon in the inaugural P&G Las Vegas HBCU Classic. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. CT, and the game will be televised live on HBCU Go and Amazon Prime Video.

Saturday marks the 73rd all-time meeting between the two SWAC powerhouses. Grambling State leads the historical series 48–23–1, including last season’s emphatic 41–20 victory in Eddie G. Robinson Memorial Stadium. But this year, Jackson State enters as a ranked opponent with revenge on its mind and one of the most explosive offenses in the nation.

Grambling State: Grit, Defense, and Bradford’s Breakout

Grambling State enters Saturday’s matchup riding momentum from a hard-fought 20–16 win over Arkansas-Pine Bluff, a game defined by clutch defense and timely playmaking. The G-Men forced three interceptions, all from their secondary, to secure their first SWAC win of the season.

Quarterback C’zavian Teasett, a transfer from Southern University, has taken command of the offense since earning the starting role. He completed 18 of 29 passes for 148 yards last week, managing the game efficiently while minimizing mistakes.

However, the heart of Grambling’s attack lies in its ground game, powered by Tre Bradford. The Dallas native has been sensational over the past month, rushing for over 120 yards in consecutive games. Against UAPB, Bradford tallied 123 yards and two touchdowns on 25 carries, earning a trio of honors — Stats Perform HBCU National Player of the Week, SWAC Offensive Player of the Week, and BOXTOROW National Player of the Week.

Bradford now leads the team with 485 yards on 78 carries (6.2 yards per rush) and three touchdowns, serving as the offensive catalyst. “He’s been that steady presence we needed,” said Grambling head coach Mickey Joseph. “He’s running with confidence, vision, and power — and that sets the tone for the rest of the team.”

Defensive Identity: Turnovers and Pressure

If Grambling State is to pull off another upset against a ranked opponent, it will rely heavily on its opportunistic defense. The G-Men rank 19th nationally in takeaways with 12 turnovers forced, including seven interceptions.

Leading that charge is defensive back Markel Linzer, who has emerged as one of the best ballhawks in the FCS. Linzer leads the nation in interceptions with four, including two in last week’s win. His performance earned him SWAC Defensive Player of the Week honors.

“He’s got great instincts and a nose for the football,” said Joseph. “He’s the kind of player who changes games.”

On the line, Warren Robinson has become a disruptive force. The transfer defensive end ranks second in the SWAC with five sacks and has tallied 17 total tackles and 5.5 tackles for loss. His ability to collapse the pocket will be crucial against Jackson State’s high-powered passing attack.

As a unit, Grambling leads the conference in total sacks (15) — a testament to their aggressive, attacking style.

Jackson State: Explosive and Efficient

On the opposite sideline, Jackson State enters as one of the most complete teams in the country. Under head coach T.C. Taylor (24–7 career record), JSU has continued its tradition of dominance, ranking among the nation’s best in both rushing and total offense.

The Tigers rank second in FCS football in rushing (266.7 yards per game) and third in total offense (496 yards per game). Quarterback Jacobian Morgan has been the engine behind that success, throwing for 1,120 yards, 11 touchdowns, and only two interceptions on an efficient 87-of-141 passing clip.

Morgan’s ability to stretch the field complements JSU’s ground game, which features a stable of backs capable of breaking long runs. The Tigers’ offense has averaged over 38 points per game, forcing opposing defenses to pick their poison between the run and the pass.

After a bye week, Jackson State enters the contest rested, reloaded, and ready for the challenge. “We know Grambling is coming off a big win,” said Taylor. “But we’re locked in. Every game now impacts our playoff positioning, and we’re treating this like a championship test.”

Keys to the Game

• Grambling’s Run Game vs. JSU’s Front Seven: Bradford must find success early to keep Grambling’s offense balanced and control time of possession.

• Turnovers: The G-Men have thrived on takeaways. Forcing Morgan into mistakes could tilt the game in Grambling’s favor.

• Pass Rush: Grambling’s SWAC-leading sack unit needs to pressure Morgan and limit JSU’s explosive plays downfield.

Prediction: Clash of Styles in Vegas

This matchup pits Grambling’s gritty, turnover-driven defense against Jackson State’s explosive, high-octane offense — a classic contrast in styles. While Grambling’s defense can keep it close early, JSU’s depth and balance might prove too much down the stretch.

Projected Final Score:
Jackson State 31, Grambling State 21

Regardless of outcome, the inaugural P&G Las Vegas HBCU Classic promises to showcase the passion, talent, and pageantry that define HBCU football — under the lights of one of the sport’s grandest stages.