Tuskegee vs Alabama State Turkey Day Classic: Hornets chase historic 10th win today on Thanksgiving, here’s what’s at stake

Tuskegee vs Alabama State collides today at 2:05 p.m. CT in the 101st Turkey Day Classic, one of the oldest HBCU football traditions. The Hornets (9-2) chase their first 10-win season since 2004, while the Golden Tigers (4-6) provide the final challenge on Thanksgiving.

Hornets Seek Historic 10th Win on Thanksgiving

Alabama State hasn’t reached 10 wins since 2004, the same year they captured the SWAC championship. Coach Eddie Robinson Jr. has transformed the program dramatically in his fourth season, building a seven-game conference record of 7-1 in SWAC play. A victory today would mark one of the best seasons in recent Hornet history.

The Hornets come in hot, having won their last five games decisively. Victories over Arkansas Pine-Bluff (44-13) and Mississippi Valley State (41-3) showed dominant performances late in the season. Quarterback Te’Sean Smoot has led the charge, delivering consistent performances that have the program positioned for success.

Tuskegee presents a Division II opponent that Alabama State is heavily favored to defeat. Predictions suggest Alabama State 52, Tuskegee 10, reflecting the significant talent gap between the teams.

Golden Tigers Face Final Challenge After Inconsistent Season

Tuskegee enters with a 4-6 record following an inconsistent campaign in NCAA Division II. The Golden Tigers compete in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) and have struggled to find consistency this year. Despite the record, Tuskegee has appeared in this classic for several consecutive years and brings tradition to the matchup.

The Golden Tigers are coached by Aaron James and play their home games at Abbott Memorial Alumni Stadium. While this team may not have the firepower of their opponents, playing on Thanksgiving Day carries historical significance for both programs.

Turkey Day Classic: 101 Years of HBCU Tradition

Historic Detail	Information
First Game Played	1924 — oldest HBCU classic
This Edition	101st Turkey Day Classic (2025)
Location	ASU Stadium, Montgomery, Alabama
All-Time Series Record	Alabama State 49—Tuskegee 36 (3 ties)

The Turkey Day Classic represents more than just a football game—it’s a Thanksgiving tradition stretching back over a century. Families have planned their Thanksgiving holidays around this matchup since 1924, when the rivalry was moved to the holiday. The classic has featured iconic moments, including legendary boxer Muhammad Ali attending the 1966 game.

The event honors the historical connection between two of the nation’s most significant HBCUs (Historically Black Universities and Colleges). Thanksgiving Day crowds gather in Montgomery to celebrate family, football, and HBCU pride. This 101st edition continues that sacred tradition with both communities coming together.

How to Watch and Listen to Today’s Broadcast

Fans can catch all the action live through SWAC TV, which provides livestream coverage of the game starting at 2:05 p.m. CT. Radio listeners can tune into Hornets Radio Network on WVAS FM 90.7 for live play-by-play. Tolly Carr will handle play-by-play duties while Mo Carter provides expert analysis.

The broadcast originates from ASU Stadium in Montgomery, where tradition and competition meet annually. Whether watching on screen or listening via radio, families across the region will experience this special Thanksgiving rivalry that spans generations.

What’s at Stake for Alabama State and Eddie Robinson Jr.?

For Alabama State and coach Eddie Robinson Jr., reaching 10 wins would represent a major accomplishment after missing the SWAC Championship Game despite strong regular-season play. The Hornets finished 7-1 in conference but fell just short of achieving the conference title game appearance. Winning today would provide a silver lining to an otherwise successful campaign.

Robinson has built momentum since arriving at Alabama State four years ago. This 9-2 season is the best of his tenure, showcasing improved recruiting, player development, and team execution. A 10th victory would set a strong foundation for 2026 and validate the direction of his program. For Tuskegee and Hornets fans, today brings closure to an important season while honoring a 101-year-old tradition that defines Thanksgiving football culture across the South. Will the Hornets capture that historic 10th win today?

Sources

• Montgomery Advertiser — Live updates and game details for 101st Turkey Day Classic
• ESPN — Game coverage and schedule information for both programs
• Alabama State University Athletics — Official game information and broadcast details