BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Alabama State opened the 2026 football season with a statement, rallying from a four-point halftime deficit to defeat Southern University 30-17 in the inaugural Birmingham Football Classic at historic Legion Field on Saturday.
The Hornets entered the season ranked No. 4 in the preseason Black College Football Poll after going 10-2 in 2025, while Southern was beginning a new era under Pro Football Hall of Famer Marshall Faulk. (https://www.wsfa.com)
Southern controlled much of the first half.
Mike Franklin opened the scoring with a 30-yard touchdown run, and quarterback Christian Johnson later connected with Daejawn Smith for a 41-yard touchdown that helped the Jaguars build a 14-3 lead.
Alabama State answered with a 61-yard touchdown pass from Andrew Body to Randall King, cutting the deficit to four points. Field goals from both teams left Southern ahead 17-13 at halftime. (https://www.wsfa.com)
The second half belonged to the Hornets.
Alabama State’s offense found its rhythm, while its special teams repeatedly gave the Hornets favorable field position. Nehemiah Hixon delivered punt returns of 33 and 43 yards, setting up Alabama State scoring opportunities.
Jareese Howard’s rushing touchdown helped Alabama State take control in the third quarter, and Body later connected with King for another touchdown as the Hornets pushed ahead 27-17.
Southern struggled to generate momentum after halftime, repeatedly going three-and-out as Alabama State’s defense and special teams took over.
A fourth-quarter interception by Alabama State’s Greg Mangle helped shut the door, and the Hornets added another field goal to finish off the 30-17 victory. (WBRZ)
The victory gives Alabama State an impressive opening win and caps the first Birmingham Football Classic with a Hornets celebration.
The event was created as a new HBCU football showcase at Legion Field, with the SWAC and the city of Birmingham establishing the Classic as a new football tradition. (Southwestern Athletic Conference)
WHAT’S NEXT
Alabama State returns home next Saturday to host Lane College in the Labor Day Classic.
Southern will return to Baton Rouge for its matchup against Kentucky State.
