In a game defined by momentum shifts and clutch plays, Team Robinson emerged victorious over Team Gaither with a 17-14 win in the 2024 HBCU Legacy Bowl. The matchup showcased standout talent from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), delivering the most exciting ending of any Legacy Bowl game to date.
Team Robinson wasted no time asserting dominance, taking an early lead with a short touchdown run from #9 Walter Wilbon. Their offense continued to fire on all cylinders as quarterback Daniel Richardson (FAMU), who was later named Offensive MVP, connected with wide receiver DeJuan Bell for another touchdown (above). Early on Team Robinson held a comfortable 14-0 lead, leaving Team Gaither searching for answers.
Momentum began to shift in the when Kole Jones came up with a crucial interception that gave Team Gaither excellent field position. Capitalizing on the turnover, quarterback Draylen Ellis (Tennessee State) found wide receiver Jalel Dean (also from Tennessee State) in the end zone for a short touchdown, cutting the deficit to 14-7.
As the clock ticked down, Ellis and Dean connected once again, this time for a slightly deeper touchdown strike that brought Team Gaither within three points, 17-14, with just six minutes remaining. The tension mounted as both teams battled to control the closing moments of the game.
Final Stand: Scarborough Seals the Win
With Team Gaither driving to potentially tie or take the lead, Amon Scarborough stepped up as the hero for Team Robinson. His game-clinching interception in the final minutes secured the 17-14 victory, cementing Team Robinson’s status as the 2025 HBCU Legacy Bowl Champions.
Following the game, quarterback Daniel Richardson was named Offensive MVP for his leadership and touchdown pass to DeJuan Bell. On the defensive side, Kole Jones’ interception stood out as a game-changing moment. Additionally, earlier in the week, running back Jada Byers from Virginia Union was honored as the 2024 Black College Football Player of the Year, receiving the prestigious Deacon Jones Trophy.
The 2025 HBCU Legacy Bowl featured standout performances from stars on both sides of the field, showcasing the elite talent across HBCU football. For Team Robinson, quarterback Daniel Richardson (FAMU) led the charge, earning Offensive MVP honors with his precision passing, including a key touchdown to wide receiver DeJuan Bell. Running back Irv Mulligan (Jackson State) and quarterback Myles Crawley (Grambling) added depth to the offensive unit, while defensive standouts like Rob McDaniel (Jackson State) and Kendal Bohler (FAMU) helped anchor the defense.
On Team Gaither’s side, quarterback Draylen Ellis (Tennessee State) showcased his playmaking abilities, throwing two clutch touchdowns to wide receiver Jalel Dean (Tennessee State). Running back Jada Byers (Virginia Union), who was named the 2024 Black College Football Player of the Year, further solidified his status as one of the top players in HBCU football. Additionally, wide receiver Joaquin Davis (NCCU), known for his blazing 4.4-second 40-yard dash, and offensive lineman Eric Brown (South Carolina State) made their presence felt throughout the game. Each of these athletes not only contributed to the excitement of the Legacy Bowl but also bolstered their prospects for the next level, leaving a lasting impression on scouts and fans alike.
In my opinion this Legacy Bowl was the best of the bunch and we’ve been here since 2022! This game had all the excitement of a regular season game and showed the competitiveness of HBCU football. When Team Robinson got off to their hot start, Team Gaither could have laid down and quit, but instead the Chennis Berry led team FOUGHT BACK! Tennessee State really put a stamp on this game and if Ellis had started this game over Phoenix the outcome may have been much different.
I asked a coach how many players from this game he expected to be drafted, he said he wasn’t sure, but he expected a lot of these guys to be in an NFL training camp, and once they get there it’s up to them. The HBCU Legacy Bowl, combined with the HBCU Combine, is giving these players a chance to put the final say in THEIR HANDS! The exposure is giving them an opportunity to show scouts and coaches that they have the talent, skills, and raw ability to succeed against top level competition.
Once again, this year while speaking with South Carolina State Offensive Line Star Eric Brown, I asked about how players are treated during this All-Star week and he said like every player in prior years that they are treated like royalty! That is exactly what you want to hear if you’re a supporter of HBCU Football!
Another HUGE round of applause for Doug Williams, Shack Harris, Steve Wyche, All-State, and the Black College Football Hall of Fame Team for making this College Football Send-Off special for our amazing HBCU athletes!
