Howard vs. Florida A&M: A Look at the History, Impact, and Significance

Clash of the Titans: Two HBCU Powerhouses Go Head-to-Head

Introduction:

The rivalry between Howard University Bison and Florida A&M University Rattlers is one of the most storied and intense in all of HBCU football. This historic matchup has produced unforgettable moments, memorable performances, and a lasting legacy that has shaped the landscape of college athletics.

A Historical Perspective

1925: The inaugural Howard-Florida A&M football game is played in Washington, D.C. Howard wins 6-0.

1949: Florida A&M defeats Howard 26-6 in Tallahassee, marking the Rattlers' first victory in the series.

1981: Howard claims the Black College Football National Championship with a 27-14 win over Florida A&M.

Impact on the HBCU Community:

The Howard-Florida A&M rivalry transcends athletics. It fosters a sense of pride and unity among HBCU alumni and students.

• Attendance: The average attendance for Howard-Florida A&M games is over 50,000 fans, making it one of the most well-attended events in HBCU football.
• Economic impact: The rivalry generates millions of dollars in revenue for the local economies of Washington, D.C., and Tallahassee, Florida.

Significant Moments:

1977: In a thrilling contest, Florida A&M scores a last-minute touchdown to win 23-21, preventing Howard from claiming the MEAC Championship.

1994: Howard defeats Florida A&M 41-35 in overtime, ending the Rattlers' 10-year winning streak in the series.

2019: Florida A&M captures the FCS National Championship with a 36-21 victory over North Dakota State, becoming the first HBCU team to win the title since Grambling State in 2001.

Lessons Learned from the Rivalry:

• Embrace the competition: The Howard-Florida A&M rivalry teaches the importance of healthy competition and pushing oneself to achieve greatness.
• Respect the legacy: Both teams have a deep appreciation for the history and tradition of the rivalry, which they strive to honor in every game.
• Utilize the platform: The rivalry provides a platform for HBCUs to showcase their achievements and advocate for issues important to the African American community.

The Future of the Rivalry:

The Howard-Florida A&M rivalry is poised to continue to flourish in the years to come.

• Expanding the audience: With the increasing popularity of HBCU football, the rivalry is reaching a wider audience than ever before.
• New opportunities: The emergence of NIL (name, image, and likeness) agreements provides new opportunities for HBCU athletes to benefit financially from their success.
• Inspiring the next generation: Howard and Florida A&M continue to inspire generations of young players to pursue their dreams of playing college football.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What is the all-time record between Howard and Florida A&M?

A: Florida A&M currently holds the advantage with a record of 55-42-5.

Q: Who holds the longest winning streak in the rivalry?

A: Florida A&M has the longest winning streak with 10 consecutive victories from 1987 to 1996.

Q: Where is the next Howard-Florida A&M game scheduled to be played?

A: The 2023 Howard-Florida A&M game will be played on November 19th in Tallahassee, Florida.

Call to Action:

Join us in witnessing the excitement and passion of the Howard-Florida A&M rivalry. Attend a game, cheer for your favorite team, and experience the legacy that has made this rivalry a cornerstone of HBCU football. Let's celebrate the history, impact, and significance of Howard vs. Florida A&M!