SHREVEPORT, La. — Grambling State University will face Langston University in the Shreveport Kickoff Classic to open the 2025 football season Aug. 30 at Independence Stadium.
The 7 p.m. matchup brings together two historically Black universities in an event with roots dating to the 1911 Red River State Fair Classic.
“We’re thrilled to open our season with the Shreveport Kickoff Classic against an outstanding program like Langston University,” said Grambling State Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Trayvean D. Scott. “This matchup not only showcases two storied institutions but also brings our passionate fan base together in a city with deep cultural and athletic ties to Grambling State.”
The game marks Grambling State’s return to Shreveport after competing in the 2022 Shreveport Classic, where the Tigers defeated Northwestern State 47-21. The university holds a 16-3-1 record in 20 previous games played in Shreveport.
“This will surely be an epic battle of the big cats,” said Langston Director of Athletics Donnita Drain-Rogers. “Our Lions as well as the Langston University Marching Pride Band will have the opportunity to showcase their talents on one of the biggest HBCU stages of the year.”
Grambling State leads the series against Langston 5-1 in six meetings since 1977. The teams last met in 2008, with Grambling State winning 13-2.
As the designated home team, Grambling State will sell tickets through gsutigers.com. The university’s 2025 season ticket package includes the Langston game and home contests against Kentucky State (Sept. 13), East Texas A&M (Sept. 20), Texas Southern (Oct. 11), Alabama A&M (Nov. 1) and Bethune-Cookman (Nov. 8).
