The Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) witnessed a significant upset as Grambling State University defeated Jackson State University 26-24 during the P&G Las Vegas HBCU Classic on October 21, 2023. This win marks Grambling’s second consecutive victory over Jackson State, and the seventh in their last ten meetings, altering the power dynamics within the conference.
Current SWAC Standings and Notable Performances
With this recent loss, Jackson State dropped to the second position in the SWAC power rankings. The Tigers now hold a record of 5-2 overall and 3-1 in conference play. Despite the setback, Jackson State remains hopeful as they prepare to face Florida A&M University (FAMU) on Saturday at 18:00. The team seeks to regain momentum, particularly with the historical advantage of winning five of their last six encounters against the Rattlers. However, uncertainty looms over quarterback Jacobian Morgan, who re-aggravated a lower body injury in the game against Grambling.
In contrast, Alabama State University has ascended to the top of the rankings, moving from second to first after a commanding 56-13 victory against Alabama A&M. Alabama State’s record now stands at 5-2 overall, with a 3-1 mark in the SWAC. This upcoming week, they will face Prairie View A&M University, a match that Coach Donald Hill-Eley emphasizes as critical for maintaining their championship aspirations. Alabama State needs to remain undefeated while hoping for Jackson State to lose another conference game to secure a place in the SWAC Championship.
Grambling State, now ranked fourth with a record of 5-3 and 2-2 in the SWAC, views its victory over Jackson State as bittersweet. The team was left shaken after star quarterback C’zavian Teasett sustained an injury during the game, requiring medical attention. Fortunately, team officials report that Teasett is “responsive and in good spirits” following the incident.
SWAC Teams’ Performance Overview
Prairie View A&M solidified its position with a 38-0 home win over Lincoln (California), maintaining a record of 6-2 overall and 4-0 in the SWAC. Prairie View looks forward to challenging Alabama State, with Coach Tremaine Jackson expressing enthusiasm about competing against a top-ranked team. They have previously had success against Alabama State, boasting a 2-1 record during the Eddie Robinson Jr. era.
Meanwhile, FAMU improved to 3-4 overall and 2-1 in the SWAC after defeating Southern University 43-35. As they prepare to host Jackson State, Coach James Colzie III highlighted the need for his team to enhance its defensive performance, especially on third downs.
Alabama A&M has struggled, now holding a record of 4-4 and 1-3 in the conference after their significant loss to Alabama State. Coach Connell Maynor faces challenges, particularly with quarterback Eric Handley dealing with a shoulder injury.
Arkansas-Pine Bluff also continues to search for answers, currently at 3-5 overall and 1-3 in the SWAC. After losing to Bethune-Cookman, Coach Alonzo Hampton is focusing on improving the team’s offensive execution, having noted crucial missed opportunities in recent matches.
Lastly, Mississippi Valley State remains at the bottom of the rankings, struggling with a record of 1-6 and yet to secure a conference win. Coach Terrell Buckley is actively seeking to make necessary adjustments to shift the team’s fortunes.
As the season progresses, the competition within the SWAC intensifies, with critical matchups ahead that could further reshape the standings.
