HOWARD UNIVERSITY'S DRIVE: OVERCOMING DISRESPECT IN HBCU FOOTBALL
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Posted By: Catalina Deossa on July 29, 2024 Howard University’s football team, coming off a historic 2023 season, is facing a preseason ranking that many feel does not fully reflect their achievements. Last year, the Bison secured their first outright MEAC title in thirty years and competed in the Celebration Bowl, where they were defeated by Florida A&M. Despite these accomplishments, the team is currently predicted to finish second in the MEAC preseason poll, trailing North Carolina Central, which earned 110 points compared to Howard’s 92. In 2023, Howard finished with a 6-6 overall record and a 4-1 mark in MEAC play. The team demonstrated impressive performance on both sides of the ball, ranking second in the conference for total offense with an average of 367 yards per game and second for defense, allowing only 318 yards per game. Key players included graduate running back Jarett Hunter, who led the team with over 600 rushing yards and nine touchdowns, and graduate safety Kenny Gallop Jr., who was named MEAC Preseason Defensive Player of the Year. Gallop recorded 59 tackles, four tackles for loss, and multiple interceptions and forced fumbles during the 2023 season. Howard’s roster features significant talent, including multiple first-team selections such as Hunter, Gallop, junior running back Eden James, senior wide receiver Kasey Hawthorne, senior guard Darius Fox, senior defensive lineman Jamel Stewart, and senior placekicker Dylan West. It is noteworthy that this season marks the first time two Howard running backs have been named to the preseason first team. The team also includes five second-team players, such as wide receiver Richie Ilarraza and offensive lineman Tim Artis Jr. Despite this strength, Howard faces uncertainty at the quarterback position following the departure of multi-year starter Quinton Williams. However, the team’s overall depth and returning talent suggest they should not be underestimated. Howard’s recent successes and strong roster challenge the preseason poll’s ranking, positioning them behind North Carolina Central. The team, led by Gallop, feels disrespected by the current rankings and is motivated to prove their critics wrong. Gallop expressed a strong desire to show that their previous achievements were not a fluke and to firmly establish themselves as the top team in the MEAC. With a roster full of talent and a determined mindset, Howard University is poised to make a significant impact this season. If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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Catalina Deossa
Archaeologist, CHRONOS SAS Florida Int`l Univ class of 2011 Member Since April 2024 |
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