FAMU, Tennessee State to face off in Tampa Classic

Florida A&M University (FAMU), Tennessee State University (TSU) and the Tampa Bay Sports Commission gathered to formally announce the FAMU Tampa Football Classic which will be held on Saturday, September 16 at 6 p.m. at Raymond James Stadium. The Historically Black College and University (HBCU) classic football game will be a true clash of the titans, featuring two of college football's storied programs.

"We are extremely excited to return to the Bay Area with the Tampa Classic at Raymond James Stadium and look to continue our long-standing tradition of successful classic games through collaboration with our partners in the City of Tampa,” said FAMU Athletic Director Milton Overton. “Our matchup against Tennessee State will prove to be an exciting contest reminiscent of legendary matchups between coaches Jake Gaither and John Merritt.”

The two teams have faced off numerous times since 1944, with the Tigers holding a narrow 30-24 edge over the Rattlers. Both programs rank in the NCAA Division I FCS Top Ten in all-time winning percentage, and the two schools have combined to win 22 Black College National Championships (FAMU 12, TSU 10). It's a match-up that shouldn't be missed.

Before the teams collide on the field, there will be an exciting series of events designed to welcome fans and engage the community.

On Friday, September 15, fans can join community partners, local business leaders and university officials for the FAMU Kickoff Luncheon. This energizing afternoon will feature a number of special guest speakers and provide attendees with a preview of the game and weekend events.

The FAMU Battle of the Bands will feature top marching bands performing energetic and dynamic routines for fans. This incredible event will also feature performances by our participating schools' two elite bands, the FAMU “Marching 100” and the TSU “Aristocrat of Bands.”

Finally, the celebration continues on Saturday, September 16 at the FAMU FanFestwhere fans of both teams are invited to enjoy food, beverage and live entertainment all leading into kick-off of this exciting matchup.

“There is no doubt that the FAMU Tampa Football Classic will offer an exciting match-up on the field, but we are equally excited by this series of incredible fan events that will be featured throughout the weekend,” said Rob Higgins, executive director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission. “We are thrilled to be welcoming FAMU and TSU fans to our community and to showcase all that Tampa Bay has to offer.”