The Celebration Bowl, introduced in 2015, has become the ultimate stage for determining the HBCU national champion. With South Carolina State University (SCSU) and Jackson State University (JSU) set to face off, this year’s matchup promises to be a battle of tradition, redemption, and legacies.
For Jackson State, the stakes are higher than ever. After falling short in two previous Celebration Bowls under former head coach Deion Sanders, the Tigers are determined to rewrite history. In 2021, a crushing 31-10 loss to South Carolina State ended Sanders’ perfect season and left the program yearning for the elusive title. Now, under the leadership of T.C. Taylor, a former assistant to Sanders, the Tigers have another chance to claim victory. Reflecting on his journey, Taylor remarked, “I’ve been here four times now, and I feel like if I keep coming, eventually I’m going to get one.”
Taylor has guided JSU to a 10-2 record this season, capped by a triumphant win over Southern in the SWAC Championship. Known for their resilience, the Tigers have relied on explosive players like running back Irv Mulligan, whose dynamic playmaking ability will be critical against South Carolina State’s disciplined defense. For Taylor, this is more than just a game—it’s an opportunity to achieve what his predecessor could not and to etch his name into JSU history.
Meanwhile, South Carolina State arrives at the Celebration Bowl with a mission to solidify their status as a MEAC powerhouse. With a 9-2 record and a string of dominant performances, including a 53-21 victory over Norfolk State and a 54-7 rout of Morgan State, the Bulldogs are locked and loaded. Head coach Chennis Berry, in his inaugural season, has brought a disciplined, mission-driven approach to the program. “We talk about the urgency of now,” Berry said. “There’s no opportunity wasted. We’re ready to go to Atlanta, Georgia, and come back to Orangeburg, South Carolina, 1-0.”
Berry’s leadership has cultivated a humble yet hungry team, led by standout players like veteran offensive lineman Nick Taiste and linebacker Aaron Smith. Taiste, a key figure in SCSU’s 2021 Celebration Bowl victory over JSU, embodies the Bulldogs’ focus and experience. “Our leaders represent the standard we’ve set here,” Berry said. “They are not just great players; they’re great human beings.”
The game also carries historical weight. The MEAC has dominated the Celebration Bowl, winning six of the eight matchups against the SWAC. SCSU aims to maintain this dominance, while JSU looks to shatter the narrative. The SWAC has won the Celebration Bowl only twice—most recently in 2023. For both programs, the stakes go beyond the final score.
As the teams prepare to clash in Atlanta, the game represents a defining moment for the players, coaches, and fans. For Jackson State, it’s a chance at redemption and legacy. For South Carolina State, it’s an opportunity to reaffirm their dominance. The question remains: can T.C. Taylor lead the Tigers to a Celebration Bowl victory, or will Chennis Berry and the Bulldogs once again reign supreme?
