There is a new surprising leader at the top of the MEAC standings and several others, including the reigning champions, fighting for a trip to Atlanta.
Let’s check the report card.
Florida A&M: A
The resurgence under first-year head coach Willie Simmons wasn’t supposed to happen this quickly, but the Rattlers are in a position to have its first winning season in six seasons and earn a possible Celebration Bowl berth, too.
North Carolina A&T: C+
After being ranked as high as fourth in the FCS Top 25, the Aggies unexpectedly dropped home games to Morgan State and FAMU. Still mathematically in the MEAC race, North Carolina A&T could find itself — by losing another game — out of the postseason picture altogether.
Bethune Cookman: B
The Wildcats are back to being in contention in the MEAC again. A late October matchup with North Carolina A&T will decide whether games in November will matter.
Howard: C
The Bison are so close to taking the next step in the conference after beating Bethune-Cookman and Delaware State. Their upcoming contests against Morgan State and South Carolina State will signal how much they’ve grown. Or not.
Norfolk State: B
They’ve been better than most predicted so far in 2018. One-game back in the standings is great. Can they navigate a four-game slate that includes North Carolina Central, Howard, Morgan State, and North Carolina A&T to stay in contention?
North Carolina Central: C-
Can the Eagles provide enough consistent offense to stay within striking distance or was the 40-point output against Howard just an anomaly?
South Carolina State: D
Although the Bulldogs have played a little bit better as the first half of the regular season ended, they’re a long way from mattering.
Savannah State: F
All you need to know is that Savannah State has been outscored by its opponents 216-67.
Delaware State: F
Surrendering 54.5 points per game explains the 0-6 start.
Morgan State: C
The Bears pulled off the biggest upset of the year by knocking off North Carolina A&T.
