Courtesy of Albany State Athletics
The stage is set for one of the most storied rivalries in HBCU football as the Albany State University Golden Rams prepare to take on the Fort Valley State University Wildcats in the 35th Annual Fountain City Classic. The matchup is set for Saturday, Nov. 8, in Columbus, Ga., and will once again bring together two proud programs competing for bragging rights and postseason momentum.
The all-time series between the Golden Rams and Wildcats is as close as it gets, with Fort Valley State holding a narrow 42-41-4 edge. However, in recent years, Albany State has dominated the rivalry, winning 10 of the last 12 meetings since 2011. This year’s contest adds another layer of excitement as both teams enter with plenty at stake.
Albany State comes into the game undefeated in conference play and currently ranked as the No. 1 team in the SIAC after an impressive road victory over Savannah State that clinched their berth to host the 2025 SIAC Football Championship. The Golden Rams will look to carry that momentum into Columbus and close out the regular season strong before championship week. Fort Valley State, meanwhile, enters the contest fresh off a big Senior Day win over Miles College, giving the Wildcats a boost of confidence heading into one of the most emotional games of their season.
As always, the Fountain City Classic promises to deliver high energy, hard-hitting football, and passionate fan support on both sides. With championship implications for Albany State and pride on the line for both programs, Saturday’s showdown is set to be another memorable chapter in one of Division II’s premier rivalries.
- Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, 2:00 PM (Columbus, Ga. | Memorial Stadium)
- Live Stream: ESPN+
- Live Stats: WildcatsFootball
