ESPN to broadcast match-up between North Carolina Central and South Carolina State, boasting unique circumstances
North Carolina Central Eagles and South Carolina State Bulldogs' Rivalry Moves to National Stage
The highly-anticipated football game between the North Carolina Central Eagles and South Carolina State Bulldogs, a storied rivalry within the MEAC conference, has been moved to a national ESPN broadcast. Originally scheduled for Saturday, November 15th, the game is now set for a time slot on Friday, November 14th, at 5 PM EST.
This shift to an earlier, weekday evening kickoff aligns with national TV priorities but may negatively impact fan attendance due to timing clashes with typical work hours and travel congestion. The game, considered both teams' most pivotal game of the season, could decide the Celebration Bowl berth.
Last year's matchup between North Carolina Central and South Carolina State aired on ESPN2 on Halloween. The Bulldogs, coached by Chennis Berry, won last year's game against North Carolina Central 24-21. The game had significant implications for the conference championship and a spot in the Celebration Bowl.
This year's game is arguably the biggest matchup of the season, outside of the game between Deshaun Jackson's Delaware State Hornets and Michael Vick's Norfolk State Spartans. The game will serve as the lead-in to the major college football game between Louisville and Clemson on ESPN.
The shift to a national ESPN broadcast is a significant development for both programs and the MEAC conference. The game provides crucial exposure and prestige for MEAC football. However, many fans may find it difficult to get off work, fight Friday evening traffic, and make it to the stadium on time for the opening kickoff.
Despite the logistical challenges, fans are eagerly awaiting this pivotal MEAC matchup. The North Carolina Central Eagles and the South Carolina State Bulldogs are widely expected to be the primary contenders in the championship race this season. Let's hope for a thrilling game and a fitting conclusion to the MEAC football season.
[1] Source: MEAC Conference Official Statement, October 2025.
- The North Carolina Central Eagles and South Carolina State Bulldogs' rivalry game, set for Friday, November 14th, has been given national spotlight through an ESPN broadcast, marking a significant moment for both programs and the American-football scene of the MEAC conference.
- As this year's pivotal MEAC matchup looms closer, the NCAA-football championship possibilities for the North Carolina Central Eagles and South Carolina State Bulldogs are on the line, with the winner potentially securing a berth in the Celebration Bowl.
- With the anticipation building for the refreshed college football rivalry, fans across the nation expect an intense and thrilling American-football competition, positioning the Eagles and Bulldogs as leading contenders in the championship race.
