MEAC Football Media Day 2024: Setting the Scene
The scene was set, the MEAC Football Media Day was upon us in Norfolk, VA, at the Hilton Main, where the beach was visible and clear. Despite a brief visit from the rain, the day carried on without a hitch. The Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference had announced the student-athletes set to participate in the leagueโs annual MEAC Football Media Day on Tuesday, July 23, at 12:00 pm EST.
A Morning of Media Frenzy
The event kicked off at 9 a.m. with media and press interviews conducted in one room. This setup allowed the media to secure exclusive interviews and one-on-one time with the head coaches and the two players representing each school. It was a pleasant experience to see everyone in their elements, and having individual time with most of the coaches and player attendees added a personal touch to the day.
Predictions and Preseason Honors
One of the highlights of Media Day was the reveal of the predicted order of finish, as well as the preseason offensive and defensive players of the year. Howard University made a significant impact, with both preseason awards going to their players, Jarett Hunter and Kenny Gallop Jr. However, they are projected to finish second behind the 2022 MEAC Champions, North Carolina Central Eagles.
The Eagles did not take kindly to this prediction. As defending champions for the past two seasons, they felt it was disrespectful to be placed behind Howard. In an exclusive interview, Darius Fox, Offensive Lineman, and Kenny Gallop Jr., Defensive Back, expressed their motivation, with Gallop Jr. saying, "Thank you MEAC." Head Coach Scott emphasized that while these predictions are noteworthy, they are merely predictions. He is focused on fighting for another championship.
Coachesโ Perspectives and Team Preparations
Other coaches expressed their excitement for the upcoming season. They look forward to revamping their programs, correcting past mistakes, and overall improvement. Norfolk State University, which will kick off preseason with the MEAC/SWAC Challenge against the defending national champions, Florida A&M University, seemed confident. Head Coach Dawson Odums noted the importance of HBCUs seeing where they are and where they need to go. As a former SWAC coach, Odums is eager to build a thriving team at Norfolk State University.
North Carolina Central University also faces a big first game against Alabama State University in the Orange Blossom Classic. When asked about his approach, Coach Trei Oliver stated he just wants to "win by 1 point." The OBC is well-known and a dynamic event for HBCU culture.
ESPN+ Live Show and Conclusion
As Media Day continued, there was a live show for the countdown to the season on ESPN+ at noon. This segment provided a platform for the schools to discuss what lies ahead for each team. Overall, Media Day was a success, and the anticipation for the season is palpable.
Predicted Order of Finish
School (1st Place Votes)PointsN.C. Central (4)110Howard (4)92Morgan State (1)80S.C. State (2)78Norfolk State (1)50Delaware State22
Coaches and Student-Athletes Attending
Delaware State
Lee Hull, Head Coach
Jordan Hull, Wide Receiver
Charles Brown Jr., Linebacker
Howard
Larry Scott, Head Coach
Darius Fox, Offensive Lineman
Kenny Gallop Jr., Defensive Back
Morgan State
Damon Wilson, Head Coach
Tahj Smith, Quarterback
Elijah Williams, Defensive Line
Norfolk State
Dawson Odums, Head Coach
Ikeem Wright, Tight End
Devon Allen, Defensive Back
North Carolina Central
Trei Oliver, Head Coach
Joaquin Davis, Wide Receiver
Jaden Taylor, Defensive Line
South Carolina State
Chennis Berry, Head Coach
Nick Taiste, Offensive Lineman
Aaron Smith, Linebacker
Media Day was a vibrant and productive event, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting MEAC football season. The energy and determination of the coaches and players alike indicate that this will be a season to remember.
