title image via the Tennessee Tribune
The Tennessee State/ Howard game has been an eagerly anticipated matchup, not only because of the gridiron action between the Bison and the Tigers but also because fans would get a chance to see Howard’s “Showtime” marching band square off against the Aristocrat of Bands, adding something extra to Howard’s homecoming festivities.
Unfortunately, the latter part of that equation will not be taking place. Thursday afternoon, Tennessee State released a statement revealing that the band would not be making the trips for the Lindenwood or the Howard contests, stating “We understand how much these performances mean our community, and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this decision may have caused to those planning to attend those games with the hope of with the hope of seeing our beloved band in action during halftime.”
The letter also attributed the decision to certain restrictions and budgetary limits, saying, “As you know, TSU is Howard’s homecoming opponent. HU has specific restrictions for our band The AOB can only perform after the game….the cost of travel is $150,000, which poses a significant challenge, given our current financial lanscape.
With or without the AOB in the stands, Tennessee State and Howard will square off on Saturday, October 19. It will be the two schools’ firsst meeting since September 22, 2001, when the Tigers kaid waste to the Bison to the tune of a 45-0 thrashing.
