Division II HBCU football has returned and we have already seen a significant shakeup in the rankings.
The most notable change comes at the top, as the two-time reigning SIAC champion Benedict Tigers had Virginia State snap their 22-game regular season win streak.
Clark Atlanta also made its presence felt, knocking off SIAC contender Fort Valley State in an offensive shootout.
As we enter the first full week of Division II HBCU football, the rankings could see more changes as Fayetteville State begins its quest for a seventh straight CIAA championship appearance.
Here is the Ultimate HBCU Sports Division II Football Poll entering week 1.
| Rank | Team | Previous Rank | 2024 record |
| 1 | Virginia Union | 2 | 1-0 |
| 2 | Virginia State | 5 | 1-0 |
| 3 | Johnson C. Smith | 9 | 1-0 |
| 4 | Clark Atlanta | NR | 1-0 |
| 5 | Fayetteville State | 3 | 0-0 |
| 6 | Edward Waters | 10 | 1-0 |
| 7 | Winston-Salem State | NR | 1-0 |
| 8 | Benedict | 1 | 0-1 |
| 9 | Fort Valley State | 8 | 0-1 |
| 10 | Tuskegee | 7 | 0-1 |
