1. North Carolina Central (3-2)
The Eagles were dominant in the Circle City Classic against Norfolk State to begin their chase for a second MEAC title in three seasons. Central will look to finish the tough part of their non-conference schedule against a high-scoring Campbell team that needed every point to hold off resilient Delaware State last weekend.
2. Florida A&M (2-2)
It’s tough to move a team that has recently played two FBS programs and had their home opener postponed by a devastating hurricane. If anything, the extra week should sharpen the Rattlers’ focus as they head to Montgomery for an early-season SWAC East showdown against Alabama State.
3. Grambling (3-2)
The Tigers dropped a heartbreaker to Prairie View A&M in the State Fair Classic, so every game from here on out is a must-win. They’re off this week before welcoming Alcorn State to Robinson Stadium for a critical SWAC West battle.
4. Jackson State (3-2)
JSU returned to the win column at Texas Southern this past weekend and will begin SWAC East play this Saturday with a visit from Alabama A&M. The Tigers won’t take the Bulldogs lightly, but a win should them to the top of the heap as the winner of FAMU/ASU will be the other contender in the East.
5. Alabama State (2-2)
The Hornets flirted with disaster against Bethune-Cookman but were able to hold on for the win. If they are to fulfill their destiny as a SWAC East contender, they cannot fool around with FAMU this weekend.
6. Howard (2-3)
The Bison had a rough go of it at Princeton and will have a much-needed bye this weekend before Sacred Heart invades Greene Stadium.
7. South Carolina State (2-2)
Chennis Berry’s home debut as the new top Dog was a successful one as SCSU outraced North Carolina A&T. South Carolina State is back on the road for a final FCS non-conference test against Tennessee Tech of the Big South-OVC alliance.
8. Morgan State (2-3)
The Bears’ offense struggled mightily against Stony Brook and will look to get back on track with a visit from Division II Lincoln (Pa.) for homecoming.
9. Tennessee State (3-2)
Big Blue sweated out some anxious moments Saturday night before defeating Charleston Southern to even their Big South-OVC record. Tennessee State heads to conference contender Lindenwood this weekend in an attempt to make a statement about their status as a team to watch.
10. Hampton (3-2)
It was tied at 7 after the first quarter, then it was all downhill for the Pirates as William & Mary exploded for 42 unanswered in their Coastal Athletic Association opener. A very good Rhode Island team visits Armstrong Stadium this weekend, so Hampton will need to tighten up quickly if they are to break out of the bottom of a very deep conference.
