Alabama A&M overcame a 14-point deficit to defeat longtime conference rival Grambling State 22-17 in Southwestern Athletic Conference football Saturday night at Louis Crews Stadium, adding another chapter to a storied matchup dating back to 1941.
The victory lifts the Bulldogs to 5-5 overall and 3-3 in SWAC competition, while Grambling State drops to 5-6 and 2-5 in conference play. The win marks AAMU’s third straight victory over the Tigers, their longest streak in the 82-year series history.
Grambling State dominated early, building a 17-3 halftime lead. The Tigers capitalized on AAMU turnovers, with Reed Harradine’s 23-yard field goal and two touchdowns putting them firmly in control, reminiscent of their dominant performances during Eddie Robinson’s legendary coaching era.
The Bulldogs’ comeback began after halftime when Cornelious Brown IV connected with Keenan Hambrick for a touchdown following a Grambling fumble, cutting the deficit to 17-14. The play recalled memories of AAMU’s historic 1992 comeback against the Tigers, when they erased a 21-point deficit.
Victor Barbosa tied the game at 17 with a field goal in the fourth quarter. AAMU took its first lead when Grambling mishandled a punt snap, resulting in a safety. Barbosa’s 19-yard field goal sealed the victory in this latest installment of a rivalry that has produced seven conference championship-deciding games.
Running back Donovan Eaglin powered the Bulldogs’ second-half surge with 123 rushing yards, including 111 after halftime. Kaleb Dawson’s late interception preserved the win, adding his name to a long list of defensive heroes in this matchup that includes NFL Hall of Famer Buck Buchanan and Pro Bowl selection Robert Mathis.
Barbosa finished with three field goals, including the game-tying and winning kicks.
The victory gives AAMU momentum heading into their final two games. The Bulldogs travel to Mississippi Valley State next Saturday for a noon kickoff at Rice-Totten Stadium, streaming on The Grio.
The comeback showcased AAMU’s resilience as they approach season’s end. Their defensive adjustments and offensive execution in the second half demonstrated their ability to perform under pressure in crucial conference matchups.
The rivalry, which has featured 47 one-possession games in its history, continues to produce dramatic finishes that shape the SWAC standings. This latest meeting adds to a legacy that includes four Black College National Championship games between the programs.
