By Cheryl Eldridge
On a sunny Saturday in October, thousands of Black college students and alumni are gathered to witness the biggest rivalry of the year. Nobody dares to move out of their seat for fear of missing any of the competition. Tensions are high as two of HBCU’s finest square off in a battle to the finish.
It’s that time of year in Birmingham where “magic happens” and the city becomes the “talk of the town.” The 73rd State Farm Magic City Classic presented by Coca Cola is here!
The number one most sold out rivalry action between Alabama State University and Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University is at stake.
So what’s all the hype about?
Let me keep it simple: tailgating,fashion shows, new hair dos, pre-game shows, halftime showdown, gridiron action, fan anticipation,post concert with Bell, Biv Devoe and which team walks away with bragging rights! Oh yeah, there’s a football game too.
Welcome to the world of Black college (HBCU) marching bands. Here you will see drum majors and musicians march and dance to the latest in R&B and hip-hop. Bands perform music that moves crowds to states of euphoria while forming multidimensional designs on the field. Dance girls and majorettes perform moves in ways accomplished dancers would envy. Simply put, HBCU marching bands are some of the most entertaining groups in the country.
This year’s game is Saturday, Oct. 25 at historic Legion Field in Birmingham, with kickoff time set for 2:30 p.m. Alabama State has won the past two football matchups against archrival Alabama A&M and will look to make it three in a row this year.
This year Alabama A& M football lies on the shoulders of newcomer Head Football Coach James Spady and Alabama State University’s new President Dr. Gwendolyn Boyd.
The State Farm Magic City Classic is currently ranked the largest Black college football classic in the country.
The State Farm Magic City Classic brings fans and celebrities from around the country to watch as Alabama A&M University and Alabama State University compete for a potential spot in the SWAC Championship. Fans can also enjoy the McDonald’s Magic City Classic Parade and the Coors Light Tailgate Party on Saturday morning. As always, the anticipated halftime will feature the Marching Hornets and the Marching Maroon and White Band. For additional information or to purchase your tickets visit www.themagiccityclassic.com.
Go Hornets! Go Bulldogs!
See you at the game!
