It’s More Than a Game — It’s the Magic City Classic

The month of October has been a marathon for Alabama A&M football and its fans. From Mobile to Huntsville and now Birmingham, Bulldog Nation has been on the move, and we are not done yet.

On October 1st, A&M fans made the long trip to the Gulf Coast Challenge in Mobile. The following week brought students, alumni, staff, friends and the city to Homecoming on The Hill, a weekend filled with pride, love, celebrations, and the spirit of AAMU 150. Now, just two weeks later, the focus shifts to Birmingham for one of the biggest HBCU rivalries in the nation… The 84th Amazon Magic City Classic Presented by Coco-Cola

The Magic City Classic isn’t just another game; it’s a battle steeped in tradition and pride. Alabama A&M leads the all-time series 44–42–3, a thin margin that reflects just how competitive this rivalry has been for decades. But lately, Alabama State has held the upper hand, riding a three-year winning streak into this year’s contest. The Hornets’ recent dominance adds even more intrigue to this year’s matchup, with Bulldog fans ready to reclaim bragging rights and restore balance to one of college football’s most storied rivalries.

For Alabama A&M first-year head coach Sam Shade, this year’s Classic may carry a special meaning. While it’s his first Magic City Classic as A&M’s head coach, it’s also something of a homecoming. Coach Shade is from Birmingham. His familiarity with the city and its culture adds a unique layer of emotion to the moment. As he leads his Bulldogs into his hometown, Shade has a chance to etch his name as the coach who brought the trophy back to Normal.

The national spotlight will shine even brighter on Birmingham this year as ESPN’s First Take HBCU Tour makes a stop in the Magic City on October 24th. The show will broadcast live from Legion Field ahead of the game, putting the historic rivalry and HBCU culture on full display for a national audience. The show starts at 10am EST on ESPN. For Alabama A&M and Alabama State, it’s another chance to showcase the schools, traditions, and pride on one of the biggest stages in sports media. 

The Magic City Classic brings together alumni, families, and fans from across the state and beyond. From tailgates and kickbacks to the parade and concerts, the Classic transforms Birmingham into a celebration of Black college excellence, pride, and unity. For many alumni, it’s just as significant as their own school’s homecoming, a weekend that reminds everyone why HBCUs remain at the heart of Alabama’s culture.

Three weekends. Three major events. One proud fan base on the move. Alabama A&M’s journey this month embodies the endurance, pride, and unity of Bulldog Nation. When the bands march into Legion Field and the crowd yells for their team, one thing will be clear: this isn’t just another game, IT’S THE MAGIC CITY CLASSIC! 

As always, Go Bulldogs!

-T. Gooden