is howard university football division 1

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06-11-2024

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Is Howard University Football Division 1? A Look at Bison Football's Journey

Howard University, a historically Black college and university (HBCU) located in Washington, D.C., boasts a rich athletic tradition, particularly in football. But is Howard University football actually Division 1? Let's delve into the question and explore the exciting journey of the Bison football program.

The Answer: Yes, Howard University football competes at the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) level.

This means Howard is part of the highest level of college football, but within a subdivision that focuses on a balance between academics and athletics. The FCS, often referred to as "Division I-AA" in the past, emphasizes smaller budgets and a greater focus on academics compared to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS), the larger, more prominent, and often more revenue-driven side of Division 1 football.

Understanding Division I Football

• FBS (Football Bowl Subdivision): The top tier of college football, featuring major conferences like the SEC, Big Ten, and Pac-12. These teams often compete in televised bowl games and attract large crowds.
• FCS (Football Championship Subdivision): While still Division I, the FCS prioritizes a balanced approach between athletics and academics. Teams typically have smaller budgets and fewer athletic scholarships.

Howard's Rise in Division I

Howard has competed in Division I football since 1970, initially as a member of the Division I-AA (now FCS). In 2020, Howard joined the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), a conference primarily composed of HBCUs.

The Bison's recent success has fueled national attention. They captured the 2021 MEAC championship and advanced to the FCS playoffs, becoming the first HBCU team to do so in 20 years! This victory highlighted the burgeoning talent and potential of Howard University football.

Beyond the Field: The Impact of Howard Football

Howard University's football program goes beyond just wins and losses. It represents a powerful symbol of pride and resilience for the HBCU community. The Bison's success inspires young athletes, particularly Black athletes, and contributes to the growth of the sport on a broader scale.

The Future of Howard Football

With continued growth, Howard University football has the potential to further elevate HBCUs on the national stage. The Bison program, with its unique blend of tradition, talent, and academic focus, can serve as an inspiration for other HBCU programs and continue to bring excitement to the world of college football.

Remember, the next time you see a Howard Bison football game, you're witnessing a Division I program with a rich history and exciting future.