Howard's Ted White Identifies Where HBCUs Must Close Gap with Power Four Programs

Howard University head coach Ted White isn't shying away from the hard truths as his Bison prepare to face defending national champion Indiana this Saturday. In his first year at the helm, White has identified exactly where HBCU football programs face their steepest challenges against Power Four competition—and it's not where many might expect.

During this week's MEAC coaches call, White was asked about the personnel differences between HBCU and Power Four programs. His answer bypassed the skill positions entirely and went straight to the trenches. For White, the line of scrimmage tells the real story, and more specifically, the depth available behind the starting units.

“Absolutely. It's a big difference,” White said when asked specifically about the line of scrimmage. His explanation went beyond simply saying Power Four players are better. White focused on the number of players a program can trust when substitutions, injuries or fatigue force coaches deeper into the roster.

Howard has already experienced this challenge firsthand this season. White revealed that the Bison played without a starting offensive tackle against Richmond and had to deploy multiple linemen without much playing experience. The coaching staff responded with unbalanced formations and other adjustments while searching for ways to establish the running game.

A Different Story at the Skill Positions

White's assessment wasn't entirely pessimistic, however. When discussing skill positions, his perspective shifted dramatically.

This distinction separates pure athletic talent from overall roster depth, providing the most interesting dimension of White's analysis. The challenge isn't finding elite athletes; it's building the depth necessary to sustain competitiveness through four quarters against programs with superior resources.

The Richmond test came just one week after Howard opened White's tenure with an impressive 31-24 victory over Alabama A&M. The Bison produced an 83-yard fourth-quarter touchdown drive after surrendering the lead in Atlanta, offering an early glimpse of the composure White wants his program to develop.

Howard has demonstrated a willingness to innovate in roster construction, with international players contributing to the Bison's broader recruiting footprint. This approach gives Howard additional avenues for finding size and athletic ability as White builds his program. Saturday's matchup with Indiana will serve as an interesting measuring stick for a Howard team still developing under its first-year head coach.

Originally reported by HBCU Gameday.