When Deion Sanders became Jackson State’s head football coach in September of 2020, both the program and the country were in states of uncertainty.
The pandemic had shut the country down for six months, and many universities delayed the start of their fall season.
That year, Sanders led the Tigers to a 4-3 record. It was an improvement from JSU’s 2019 record of 4-8 and a sign of good things to come.
In 2021, Sanders led the team to a regular-season record of 11-1 and a Celebration Bowl appearance. There, unfortunately, they were mauled by South Carolina State, 31-10.
But Primetime had firmly secured his presence in Mississippi.
More importantly, his efforts garnered renewed attention for HBCU programs, resulting in an influx of money and former NFL talent including Eddie George at Tennessee State and, more recently, Hue Jackson at Grambling State.
Sanders also attracted talent to his program.
When he signed top recruits Travis Hunter and Kevin Coleman, college football traditionalists lost their minds. They immediately questioned and attacked the heritage, credibility, legacy and proposition of HBCU institutions and programs.
But the resentment didn’t bother coach Prime. He was too busy building something special at Jackson State and ushering in a new era for Black College football.
In February, he made another big splash when he announced 2022 would be the last time the Tigers participated in the Southern Heritage Classic.
The annual game in Mississippi pits Jackson State against Tennesee State. Since the Classic began on September 8th, 1990, the two teams have met a total of 28 times.
It was unwelcome news for the local community which benefits greatly from the game and the presence of the two former NFL All-Pros.
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