Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU) is making big waves in HBCU football this season. The Golden Bulls have kicked off 2024 with a perfect 4-0 record, a significant turnaround for the historic HBCU program. Led by head coach Maurice Flowers, Johnson C. Smith is building something special, and an eight-win season—a school record—is within reach. This team is poised to make 2024 a season to remember in Charlotte, NC.
Laying the Groundwork for Success
When Coach Maurice Flowers took over at JCSU, the football program needed a reset. His first season was a tough one, with the Golden Bulls finishing 2-7, but Flowers knew that laying a strong foundation was the key to future success. “That first year taught us a lot of lessons, and we’ve built from there,” Flowers explained on the HBCU Gameday D2 Football Show. “Now, this team is turning those hard lessons into wins.”
Johnson C. Smith has deep roots in HBCU football. The program’s legacy dates back to 1892, when it played the first-ever football game between two Black colleges, defeating Livingstone College 5-0. Now, Coach Flowers is pushing to add a new chapter to the school’s storied history, one that puts the Golden Bulls on a path to dominance in not just HBCU, but Division II football as a whole.
Key Players Leading the Charge
This season, Johnson C. Smith is being powered by standout players on both offense and defense. Quarterback Darius Ocean has been a revelation, throwing for 968 yards and 7 touchdowns in just four games. Ocean’s poise and playmaking ability have helped turn the Golden Bulls into a well-rounded offensive powerhouse. “Darius has matured into a leader for this team,” Flowers said. “He’s making smart decisions and keeping the offense moving.”
Running back Quavaris Crouch has been just as impactful, rushing for 287 yards and 6 touchdowns, including a 75-yard sprint that electrified the crowd at the Red Tails Classic. “Quavaris gives us a big-play threat on every snap,” Flowers said. Wide receiver Brevin Caldwell has been another major weapon, hauling in 36 catches for 522 yards and 6 touchdowns, making him Ocean’s go-to target.
Johnson C. Smith’s defense is also playing lights out, allowing just 239 rushing yards through the first four games. Shamar Baker has been a standout in the secondary, recording 3 interceptions, including a 38-yard pick-six that helped seal one of their wins. “Our defense has been a rock this year,” Flowers noted. “We’ve controlled the line of scrimmage, and that’s given us the edge in tight games.”
Building for the Future
While this season’s goal is clear—set a new win record and compete at the highest level of HBCU football—Coach Flowers is also focused on the future. Johnson C. Smith has made major investments in the football program, upgrading facilities and enhancing recruiting efforts, particularly in the Charlotte area. “Getting local players who care about this university and this community has been huge for us,” Flowers said.
With a committed coach, standout players, and the backing of the university, Johnson C. Smith is laying the groundwork for long-term success in HBCU football. As they push toward what could be a record-setting season, the Golden Bulls are showing that their turnaround is more than just a moment—it’s a movement.
“Everything is coming together for this program,” Flowers said. “We’re not just building for this year; we’re building something that will last.”
With four wins already in the books, Johnson C. Smith is ready to make a statement in 2024. The path ahead looks bright for the Golden Bulls, and all eyes in HBCU football are watching as they chase history.
HBCU Gameday productions have been embedded within the JCSU football program for the past two seasons filming the “Brick x Brick with JCSU Football” docu-series. Catch up on Season 1 on YouTube and watch episodes from Season 2 below.