The 85th Magic City Classic delivered everything HBCU football fans could ask for: fierce competition, electrifying performances, marching band pageantry, and a finish that kept Birmingham on the edge of its seat. On Halloween afternoon, October 31, 2026, Alabama A&M University and Alabama State University renewed their historic rivalry at Legion Field, producing a 31-28 Alabama A&M victory before a crowd of 69,384 fans. For the Bulldogs, it was more than a win. It was the end of a four-game losing streak against their archrivals and a statement that they intend to compete for Southwestern Athletic Conference supremacy.
Alabama A&M quarterback Cornelious “Quad” Brown IV led the Bulldogs with a composed performance, completing 22 of 35 passes for 216 yards and two touchdowns while adding another score on the ground. Running back Kolton Nero contributed a crucial fourth-quarter touchdown, while linebacker DJ Barber anchored the defense with 13 tackles and earned defensive MVP honors. The Bulldogs established control early, building a 14-0 lead before Alabama State began its comeback. The Hornets refused to surrender, with running back Jareese Howard scoring three touchdowns to keep his team within striking distance. Alabama A&M appeared to regain control at 31-21, but Howard’s third touchdown narrowed the margin to three points with just over three minutes remaining.
Alabama State had one final opportunity to steal the victory. However, the Bulldogs' defense delivered when it mattered most, stopping the Hornets' final drive and forcing an incompletion on fourth down. The victory lifted Alabama A&M to 7-2 overall and 4-1 in conference play, while Alabama State fell to 4-4. For Bulldogs head coach Sam Shade, a Birmingham native, winning his first Magic City Classic as head coach made the moment especially meaningful. Shade redirected the praise toward his players, emphasizing their trust, preparation, and commitment to the team's process.
But the Magic City Classic is about far more than the final score. Each year, thousands of alumni, students, families, and supporters converge on Birmingham for a weekend celebrating HBCU culture, tradition, and community. The parade, tailgating, Greek-letter organizations, and legendary Battle of the Bands transform the city into a showcase of Black excellence and school pride. The Classic's remarkable attendance and economic impact make it one of the country's premier HBCU sporting events.
Where does it rank among other HBCU classics? There is no universally accepted official ranking, but the Magic City Classic belongs in the top tier. Alongside the Bayou Classic, Florida Classic, and Orange Blossom Classic, it stands among the most recognizable and celebrated gatherings in Black college football. Its longevity, enormous attendance, fierce rivalry, and deep connection to Birmingham give it a distinctive place in the HBCU landscape.
For AMPS Magazine, the 2026 Classic demonstrated why these traditions matter. They bring generations together, strengthen communities, and celebrate institutions that continue to educate and empower future leaders. Alabama A&M may have claimed the trophy this year, but the enduring winner was HBCU culture itself.