A celebration of HBCU heritage and football rivalry

On Saturday, October 26, the Magic City Classic, the nation’s largest historically black college (HBCU) football game, will once again take center stage at historic Legion Field in Birmingham, Alabama. This highly anticipated event pits Alabama State University against Alabama A&M University, two of Alabama’s premier HBCUs, in a fierce rivalry that extends beyond the gridiron and into the rich cultural and historical significance of the institutions and the communities they represent.

For decades, the Magic City Classic has attracted tens of thousands of alumni, fans and supporters, making Birmingham a vibrant center of celebration. More than just a football game, the event is a week-long festival with concerts, parades, meet-and-greets and a variety of cultural showcases, showcasing the rich history and contributions of HBCUs in Alabama and beyond. across the country.

The Magic City Classic dates back to 1940, making it one of the oldest traditions in HBCU football. The game was born out of a desire to foster a competitive spirit between Alabama State University (founded in 1867) and Alabama A&M University (founded in 1875), two institutions with strong academic and athletic traditions. Over the years, the Classic has become more than a game; it is a symbol of resilience, pride and unity within the black community.

Legion Field, home of this legendary contest, is no stranger to history itself. Opened in 1927, the stadium has been the site of many historic sporting events, including University of Alabama football games, the Iron Bowl, and even international soccer games. It’s often called the “old gray lady” of college football, and the Magic City Classic has become one of its signature events, drawing crowds of more than 60,000 in recent years. Alabama A&M and Alabama State have a long-standing football rivalry. has produced countless memorable moments. Both programs are rich in history, boasting numerous conference championships and producing notable athletes who have gone on to success in professional sports and other industries. Both teams are part of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), a conference with a rich history in HBCU athletics.

Alabama A&M, located in Normal, Alabama, enters this year’s game with hopes of reclaiming the title after a hard-fought season. The Bulldogs, known for their strong defensive play and powerful offense, are led by head coach Connell Maynor. Alabama State, based in Montgomery, Alabama, brings a balanced team to the field under head coach Eddie Robinson Jr., emphasizing discipline and a tradition of excellence on both sides of the ball. While the football rivalry takes center stage, the Magic City Classic is about much more than the final score. The festivities around the game are just as legendary. The parade, led by marching bands and featuring floats and local dignitaries, is a highlight for many participants. The Battle of the Bands, featuring Alabama State’s Mighty Marching Hornets and Alabama A&M’s Marching Maroon & White Band, is an event in itself, with spectators eagerly awaiting the halftime show to catch the impressive choreography and musical prowess of the musicians and dancers.

The Classic also served as a platform for political and social engagement. Prominent figures, including civil rights leaders and politicians, used the event to address the community, focusing on issues such as voting rights, education and economic empowerment.

In addition to its cultural and historical significance, the Magic City Classic brings substantial economic benefits to Birmingham. Local hotels, restaurants and businesses see an increase in revenue during game week, with estimates in past years ranging from $22 million to $24 million in economic impact. The influx of visitors from across the country has solidified Birmingham’s reputation as a city that embraces its role as host to one of the largest HBCU gatherings in the country.

As Alabama State and Alabama A&M prepare to take the field again at Legion Field, the Magic City Classic continues to serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of HBCUs. For many, it is a family tradition passed down through generations, a celebration of academic excellence, cultural pride and athletic competition.

This year’s Classic promises to deliver all the excitement and pageantry fans have come to expect from this legendary rivalry, with the added weight of history pushing both teams to leave it all on the field.

As fans prepare for this year’s edition of the Magic City Classic, one thing is certain: this game is about much more than football; it’s about history, culture, and the enduring spirit of the HBCU community.