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South Carolina State leads USA TODAY Sports HBCU football rankings

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 31, 2026, 8:06 AM

Last updated Aug 31, 2026

South Carolina State leads USA TODAY Sports HBCU football rankings

Summary

South Carolina State holds the top spot in the USA TODAY Sports Network HBCU football rankings following a 87-0 opening win against Savannah State. Alabama State secured second place after a 30-17 victory over Southern in Birmingham. Jackson State moves to third following a 26-24 win against Tennessee State in the John Merritt Classic. Texas Southern enters the top ten after a 42-30 win over North Carolina Central, while Prairie View A&M drops to fourth following a 49-30 loss to Tarleton State. The rankings cover 21 Division I HBCU football programs heading into Week 1 of the 2026 season. Teams are evaluated based on Week 0 performance and program standing.

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By the Numbers

•South Carolina State earned the number one ranking after an 87-0 victory against Savannah State.
•Alabama State defeated Southern 30-17 to maintain a high position in the rankings.
•Jackson State edged Tennessee State 26-24 in the John Merritt Classic.
•Texas Southern rose in the rankings after a 42-30 victory over North Carolina Central.
•The rankings include 21 Division I HBCU football programs as they prepare for Week 1.

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