The Storied Rivalry of the Turkey Day Classic Continues for HBCU Powerhouses
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Posted By: Will Moss on January 29, 2026 MONTGOMERY, Ala. - In a move that will delight HBCU football enthusiasts, the Alabama State Hornets and the Tuskegee Golden Tigers have agreed to extend their legendary Turkey Day Classic rivalry through the 2026 season. This historic matchup, which has been a centerpiece event for both schools and their passionate fan bases, will continue to grace the Thanksgiving holiday for at least one more year. The announcement, made by Alabama State's Athletic Director Jason Cable, is a testament to the unwavering commitment of these two HBCU powerhouses to preserving one of the oldest and most significant rivalries in Black college football. Key Takeaway: The Turkey Day Classic is regarded as the first Black College Football Classic, underscoring its profound historical significance within the HBCU sports community.
The Turkey Day Classic, which has been played since 1924, has seen its fair share of ups and downs in recent years. In 2025, Alabama State enjoyed a remarkable 10-win season, but missed out on the FCS playoffs due to the scheduling conflict with the holiday matchup. This dilemma has highlighted the need for a more sustainable solution to preserve the legacy of this iconic rivalry. Despite the challenges, both schools remain committed to the tradition. As Jason Cable noted, "The Turkey Day Classic is a historic matchup, and we look forward to continuing this tradition and celebrating the legacy of this rivalry on Thanksgiving." The upcoming 2026 edition of the Turkey Day Classic will mark the 106th installment of this storied rivalry. Alabama State currently holds a 44-13 advantage in their most recent meeting, but Tuskegee still maintains the edge in the all-time series with a record of 62-40-3. "While longevity is the goal in this type of long-standing rivalry, we at ASU feel this is definitely a step in the right direction. The Turkey Day Classic is a historic matchup, and we look forward to continuing this tradition and celebrating the legacy of this rivalry on Thanksgiving." As the HBCU community eagerly awaits the next chapter of the Turkey Day Classic, the significance of this rivalry extends far beyond the field. It represents the unwavering spirit and rich traditions that have defined HBCU athletics for generations. This ongoing commitment to preserving the legacy of the Turkey Day Classic is a testament to the enduring pride and unity of the HBCU community. Originally reported by HBCU Sports. If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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Will Moss
Founder & CEO, HBCU CONNECT, LLC Hampton University class of 1995 Member Since June 1999 |
