MEAC/SWAC Kickoff Challenge Sets Stage for Historic Showdown
Photo taken by Leroy Tyler | Pretty Girls Love Sports
The anticipation was palpable as coaches and athletic directors from North Carolina Central University and Southern University gathered for the MEAC/SWAC Kickoff Challenge press conference, setting the stage for what promises to be an electrifying clash on August 23, 2025, in Atlanta.
A Love Affair with Atlanta
The magnetic pull of Atlanta was evident from the opening remarks. NCCU's Athletic Director captured the sentiment perfectly: "We all love Atlanta, from the band, cheerleaders, Greeks... we both want to start and end here which would be historic." The city has become synonymous with HBCU football excellence, serving as the ultimate destination for both programs.
Southern University's AD echoed this enthusiasm while giving props to their dedicated fanbase: "Alums... shout out to our alums here... we appreciate you for taking care of us. We know it'll be a great matchup, and have been waiting to come to Atlanta."
The Coaches: Confidence Meets Respect
Terrence Graves of Southern University and Trei Oliver of North Carolina Central University brought distinctly different energies to the podium, yet both commanded respect through their preparation and passion.
Coach Oliver, can be described as having personality and a very confident aura but also very humble, as he demonstrated his meticulous preparation. Despite facing the challenge of losing four coaches this season, he's determined to "pick up where they left off and stay on the course." His philosophy? "Windshield is bigger than the rearview mirror, gotta keep looking ahead."
Meanwhile, Coach Graves, a 31-year SWAC veteran, embodied the deep-rooted culture of HBCU football. "At HBCUs because we want to be, we chose to be here and make our careers here... I do not regret it one bit," he declared with unmistakable pride.
Star Power and Standout Players
When pressed about key players to watch, both coaches revealed their strategic gems:
NCCU's weapons include:
DE Thomas Johnson - described as "a force to be reckoned with"
The entire offensive line - a unit that has "performed well" with significant returning experience
Southern's arsenal features:
WR Darien Morris - projected for a breakout year, with Coach Graves "excited about his growth"
DB Ckelby Givens - a player who has "earned everything he's received"
Culture Over Scheme
The Eagles of NCCU have embraced a "culture over scheme" mentality, prioritizing academics alongside athletics. With a team GPA exceeding 3.0, players use summer school to get ahead rather than simply maintain eligibility - a testament to the program's commitment to holistic development.
The Stakes and History
Southern enters with a commanding 3-0 record in the MEAC/SWAC Challenge, while NCCU comes in as the 2023 Cricket Celebration Bowl champions. The historical significance isn't lost on either program as they prepare for the 20th anniversary of this prestigious challenge.
Coach Graves summed up Southern's motivation: "Really, really motivated because we fell a little short and working hard to do everything they can to get here [Atlanta] in December."
Coach Oliver emphasized the broader impact: "So much bigger than the game... keeps us relevant... it's going to be a good one... from the same neck of the woods, we battle."
The Fifth Quarter Battle
When asked about the famous "fifth quarter" - the battle of the bands - both coaches showed their competitive spirit:
Oliver conceded: "The SWAC they do it man," but admitted he'd likely be "in post game conference probably showered up and looking for a good meal."
Graves responded with swagger: "Often imitated and never duplicated... I know that juke box is going to go!"
Corporate Support and Community Impact
Cricket Wireless's Cindy Rozier highlighted their deep commitment to HBCU students, noting their 2021 mentorship of 43 students from 18 schools and their continued investment in these vital initiatives.
Looking Ahead
As both programs prepare for their August 23rd collision, the mutual respect between coaches was evident throughout the conference. Coach Oliver acknowledged the physicality Southern will bring, while Coach Graves remained characteristically tight-lipped about strategy, including keeping his starting quarterback decision under wraps until game day.
With three weeks of preparation ahead, both coaches promise their teams will be ready for what Oliver aptly described as a "dog fight." The stage is set for another memorable chapter in HBCU football history, where tradition meets competition in the heart of Atlanta.
The 2025 MEAC/SWAC Kickoff Challenge promises to deliver everything fans expect: elite competition, cultural celebration, and the unbridled passion that makes HBCU football uniquely compelling.
