Grambling State University delivered a dominant performance in a matchup of HBCU football powers, defeating Jackson State 41-20 on Saturday in Grambling, LA.
However, the game will NOT count in the SWAC standings. The game was a non-SWAC contest between the two traditional HBCU powers in separate divisions of the same league.
Grambling State set the tone early with two first-quarter touchdowns, including a 7-yard run by Ke’Travion Hargrove and a 22-yard pass from Myles Crawley to J.R. Waters. HBCU football fans witnessed Jackson State rally in the second quarter, narrowing the gap to 14-13, thanks to a 70-yard touchdown pass and a 33-yard run.
However, Grambling’s defense took control as Caleb Lee-Collins intercepted a pass and returned it for a 22-yard touchdown just before halftime, shifting momentum back in their favor. In the second half, Grambling State’s defense forced three turnovers, including a fumble recovery returned for a touchdown by Patrick Marshall. Stars like Hargrove shone, adding another rushing touchdown in the fourth quarter.
Grambling State’s victory was ultimately powered by its defense, which held Jackson State to just 159 yards rushing while forcing four fumbles.
This win improves GSU’s record to 3-1, as it continues to assert itself as a top contender in SWAC football. The ability to capitalize on Jackson State’s mistakes and control the clock was key, as it dominated possession with nearly 35 minutes of offensive time. Grambling State’s performance left no doubt that they are a force to be reckoned with in HBCU competition.