A Legacy of Excellence: Exploring the History of North Carolina Central University Football
North Carolina Central University (NCCU) boasts a rich and storied football history, deeply intertwined with the legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and the vibrant culture of Durham, North Carolina. From its humble beginnings as the National Training School to its current status as a competitive force in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), NCCU's football program has been a source of pride and unity for the university and the surrounding community.
Early Years and the Rivalry with N.C. A&T
The NCCU football program's roots trace back to the early 20th century. A defining element of NCCU's football narrative is its intense rivalry with North Carolina Agricultural and Technical University (N.C. A&T). This rivalry, immortalized in the book “NCA&T vs. NCCU: More Than Just a Game,” transcends the sport itself, embodying the shared history, aspirations, and competitive spirit of two prominent HBCUs in North Carolina.
The first game between NCCU (then named National Training School) and N.C. A&T took place in 1922 at Dudley Field in Greensboro, with N.C. A&T emerging victorious. In 1924, NCCU tied N.C. A&T 13-13, though the Eagles had a good year, going 4 wins, 2 ties and 1 loss. N.C. A&T continued to dominate the series throughout the 1920s.
The dynamic shifted in 1930 with key personnel changes. N.C. A&T hired Harry “Big Jeff” Jefferson as head football coach. Meanwhile, NCCU hired Leo Townsend away from nearby Hillside High School in Durham as head coach. In the 1930 game, the Eagles defeated N.C. A&T for the first time, 20-14. This victory marked a turning point, as NCCU went on to win the next three games against N.C. A&T in 1931, 1932, and 1933.
According to Charles D. Johnson, chair of the NCCU Department of History, "What makes the rivalry so intense is that the people are so close… Fifty miles apart. In any given household, you have both Aggies and Eagles". Smallwood added that, "They were competing for the same students, the same athletes, the same resources from the state legislature. Both had strong leaders, Dr. James E. Shepard and Dr. James B."
Read also: North Carolina Basketball Greats
"More Than Just a Game": A Deep Dive into the Rivalry
The book “NCA&T vs. NCCU: More Than Just a Game,” co-written by Charles D. Johnson and Arwin D. Smallwood, meticulously chronicles every football game played between NCCU and N.C. A&T from 1922 to 2022. The book offers commentary on the different eras of the rivalry, history of the schools and places the rivalry in the context of nationwide historically Black colleges and universities (HBCU) sports. There is an abundance of photos of players, coaches and scrimmages along with images of newspaper articles and game flyers. The game descriptions are sometimes amusing. In 1932, when the teams played for the first time on Thanksgiving Day, officials lost track of the number of downs.
“More Than Just a Game” also follows some players beyond college football. For example, Harry Lash, an Aggies player, was later a track coach in Georgia of Alice Marie Coachman. Others, such as N.C. A&T player Robert Herman ‘Stonewall’ Jackson had their cleats in both schools. Jackson was one of the first players from an HBCU to be drafted into the NFL, in his case the New York Giants.
The authors conducted extensive research, including scouring thousands of newspaper articles and interviewing coaches, players, and alumni. According to Johnson, "Those players from the 1960s to the present day, they still talk daily".
The Trei Oliver Era and Recent Success
In recent years, the NCCU Eagles have experienced a resurgence under the leadership of Head Coach Trei Oliver. Oliver is heading into his sixth season as the Eagles’ head coach, leading the team to four consecutive winning seasons. The highlight of his tenure was the Eagles victory over Jackson State in the 2022 Cricket Celebration Bowl.
2022 Cricket Celebration Bowl Victory
One of the most significant moments in NCCU football history occurred in 2022 when the Eagles defeated Jackson State University in the Cricket Celebration Bowl, securing the HBCU National Championship. The final play, a fourth-down stop at the one-yard line in overtime, sealed the 41-34 victory and etched the team's name in the annals of HBCU football lore.
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As a part of this historic season, the Eagles reached 17th in the final FCS rankings, which marked their highest ranking since becoming a Division I program in 2010.
Continued Success and FCS Playoff Appearance
In 2023, the Eagles continued to build on the success of the 2022 season. While they lost a MEAC tiebreaker and did not return to the Cricket Celebration Bowl, the Eagles continued to make history. With a strong 9-3 season, the Eagles were a mainstay in the FCS national rankings all-season long, reaching as high as a new program record seventh. The Eagles were rewarded for their strong season and earned a bid to the FCS playoffs for the first time in program history.
The Eagles wrapped up the 2024 season with an 8-3 overall record, continuing their strong performance in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) with a 4-1 record in conference play. This marks the fourth straight season NCCU has finished with just one conference loss, who have established themselves as a mainstay at the top of the standings. Despite their success, the Eagles narrowly missed an MEAC title, finishing second behind South Carolina State.
2025 Season Outlook
For the 2025 season, the Eagles are projected to finish second in the MEAC, just behind South Carolina State. They will kick off their season on Saturday, August 23, in the Cricket MEAC/SWAC Challenge against Southern University at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA. The game will be broadcast live on ABC at 7:30 PM. In total, the Eagles will play five games at O’Kelly-Riddick Stadium this year, including key matchups against Norfolk State, South Carolina State and Homecoming vs Delaware State on October 25.
The Game Day Experience and Community Engagement
NCCU football games are more than just sporting events; they are integral parts of the university's culture and a source of community pride.
Read also: Academic Pathways at UNC
O'Kelly-Riddick Stadium: Home of the Eagles
In the heart of NCCU’s campus lies O’Kelly Riddick Stadium, home of the NCCU Eagles.
"The Ultimate Homecoming Experience"
At NCCU, homecoming is known as “The Ultimate Homecoming Experience.” This spirited week celebrates NCCU pride and rich HBCU culture, bringing together thousands of students and alumni for parades, tailgating, concerts, step shows, and more-all leading up to the big game at O’Kelly-Riddick Stadium.
The NCCU Sound Machine
The Sound Machine Marching Band is the heartbeat of NCCU Eagles Football and a must-see part of the game day experience. Their electrifying performances and high-energy halftime shows bring the stadium to life and ignite the crowd. With a proud legacy that includes performing at the North Carolina Governor’s Inauguration in 1961, the Sound Machine has showcased its talents across the country. In 2023, they made their debut at the iconic Rose Bowl Stadium, as well as defeating Mississippi Valley State University at the Circle City Battle of the Bands in Indianapolis. The band continues to make history while representing NCCU with pride!
Exploring the Campus and Durham
Whether you’re coming in from out of town or are a local looking to check out a game, you’ll first want to explore the campus and its history. Stop by the statue honoring NCCU founder James Edward Shepard, as well as the Shepard House where he lived. Pay a visit to the NCCU Art Museum, which houses both students’ works, as well as original creations from many 20th century Black artists. Throughout Fayetteville Street, you will find local favorites like the Chicken Hut, Durham’s second oldest restaurant, or Let’s Eat Soul Food, and stop in to Bull City Apparel and Customs for authentic Durham gear.
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