September 11th, 2026 1:00am
The conference had a bit of a bounce back in week 1, with Shaw both picking up out of conference wins, and Bluefield State having a near miss. But arguably the biggest non-conference win in the young season is Fayetteville State’s gritty 10-7 win over UNC-Pembroke. FSU matched UNC-P’s physicality despite the Broncos’ defense being on the field for 10 more minutes. The timely turnovers near or in the redzone forced by the Broncos (hello, Zyking Patillo, whose interception singlehandledly saved this game when the Braves were nearly in the endzone) demonstrated a bend but don’t break mentality. Johnson C. Smith also had a big win on Sunday against Albany State in a must win matchup. It is clearly becoming clear who the heir apparent is to the best running back in the conference after Fabian Duncan’s second-straight 100+ yard performance. A quarterback change did the Golden Bulls some good with Damien Mazil starting over Parker McQuarrie.
This week’s game
#10 Valdosta State at Fayetteville State – The FSU gauntlet tour really turns up this week with their matchup against the Blazers. It’s the second time these two teams have met. Valdosta, in their second year under head coach Graham Craig, is really asserting themselves with the running offense. FSU did have some fits trying to corral Pembroke quarterback Josh Erlich at times, so look to see how they defend against the run to determine their success. One weakness on offense has been that the Broncos have not been as strong in the run game, depending more on the Jamir Dismukes-Marcus Fleming combination to propel them. Valdosta isn’t going to let the CIAA win a game for a second straight year. Advantage: Valdosta State sadly is going to overwhelm the Broncos faster than a California wildfire.
Ferrum at Shaw – Shaw hosts Ferrum one year after a heartbreaking loss. The formula isn’t much different than a year ago for Ferrum – they want to pass the ball, and they have gotten better at doing so behind quarterback Eli Foutz. Ferrum’s receivers have proven that they can make big pass plays as well, as even Emory and Henry got burned a couple of times in the pass game. Shaw will need to rely on a balanced to pass happy game to get the ball downfield, as Ferrum will slow down a run-dominant offense. Advantage: Redemption for Shaw to move to a winning record!
Virginia Union at Chowan – Old friend Chowan hosts VUU in a game that may be closer than one may think. VUU got back to their running ways by trouncing Livingstone on the ground for nearly 300 yards. The passing game also showed signs of life with RJ Rosales being rather efficient. Chowan is likely to test the VUU pass defense, especially after how Lenoir-Rhyne exploited the middle of the field. The Hawks are rather pass happy, and the Panther defense will need to account for Amir Alexander (16 receptions, 279 yards through two games). Chowan will also test VUU’s rushing ability, as run defense looks to be a defensive strength. Advantage: VUU, but it will take them getting their passing game going yet again.
Livingstone at Bluefield State – Wellll, someone must win this game (I mean unless Mother Nature turns up the head in Bluefield, not likely in those mountains). Both teams come in showcasing significant challenges. Both are having challenges in stopping the run. That weakness favors Livingstone, who rushed for over 330 yards last week. The Blue Bears would be wise to limit passing if they could, as Bluefield State showed the ability to force turnovers last week in its narrow loss to Concord. Bluefield is likely to play to keep the ball for long stretches given that they hold onto the ball longer than any other team in the conference. This game isn’t the sexiest matchup, but it is likely to entertain in many ways. Advantage: Livingstone, provided they curb the penalties.
Virginia State at FCS South Carolina State – I don’t like this game. Its not winnable for VSU given how dominant SCSU has been against MEAC competition. But moreover, why is SCSU playing TWO Division II teams in one year. Pathetic. This game could be a good litmus test through on how good RJ Matthews, the core of wide receivers and the offense can hold up against a very robust defense. I do not expect much running success from the Trojans. I also expect the SCSU offense to really stretch the Trojan defense. Advantage: SC State *le sigh*
Johnson C. Smith at Winston-Salem State – Story Time! Okay, the CIAA has been through a period where it had a team who both won multiple playoff games and another team who was near dead in Division II in points scored per game. The season this phenomenon occurred? 2021. The team who was nearly dead last in scoring? Lincoln, who was shut out three times, and only scored double digits twice that year.
The Rams are already 2/3s there on the shutout part. Given the tepid start by the WSSU offense, new lows could be set this year unless something changes, and quick. At least there will be a quarterback change, with Deiondre Goldston being thrown into the stampede.
But wait, like a bad informercial, there’s more. The winless, scoreless-through-two-games Rams host a JCSU squad harboring their former head coach. Moreover, Fabian Duncan is doing his best Curtis Allen impressions, and JCSU now has a resuscitated passing game. Not to mention, the defense nabbed three interceptions last week. Yeah, this isn’t going end well. Advantage: JCSU is going to trample the Rams as if Bowman Gray was Pamplona.
Bowie State at FCS Delaware State: As good as VSU was last week, Del State is really good. Moreover, the hornets are buzzingly mad about letting William and Mary off the hook. Make no mistake – Bowie State can put up some yards. But, turnovers and mistakes will do them in worse if they commit them. Moreover, the defensive secondary has A LOT of work to do in order to down teams. Advantage: Del State, and it will not be close. Bulldog on Bulldog crime will be committed, lead by former BSU quarterback-turned-DSU-offensive coordinator Nemo Washington.
Lincoln vs FCS Mississippi Valley State – This game is in Chicago, and should be a good time for the Lions outside of the game. Inside the game, I do expect Lincoln to put up a fight. I was pleasantly surprised by how they were able the game reasonably close against West Chester despite being down 21-0 in the first half. The problem is going to be depth; as bad as MVSU is, I do not envision Lincoln being able to overcome the scholarship disadvantage. Advantage: MVSU in a cut the check type of game.
ECSU is tussling with Bye Week, aiming to win the game with a 2 point conversion.