The streets of Orange Mound came alive Saturday morning Sept 27 as the 36th Southern Heritage Classic kicked off in style. Crowds lined the sidewalks, waving, clapping and dancing along to the sounds of Alcorn State University’s “Sounds of Dyn-O-Mite” and the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff’s “Marching Musical Machine of the Mid-South.”
With their drums pounding and horns blaring, the bands marched proudly alongside Memphis schools, community groups and organizations in the annual Southern Heritage Classic Parade — a beloved tradition that blends culture, music and pride long before the teams meet on the field.
For the first time in Classic history, it was Alcorn State’s turn to step into the spotlight against UAPB. For decades, the matchup featured Tennessee State and Jackson State, but this year’s game marked a new chapter, one that fans embraced with open arms.
Anitra Johnson, a Memphis native and proud UAPB alumna, reflected on what the day meant to her.
“You have two really great HBCUs coming together. It’s history in the making,” Johnson said. “I know it’s always been TSU and JSU, but there’s nothing wrong with change, right? At the end of the day, we’re keeping the Southern Heritage Classic tradition alive.”
By mid-afternoon, Tiger Lane and the parking lots surrounding Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium were filled with the unmistakable smell of barbecue and the sound of laughter spilling from tailgate tents. Families, alumni and fans in maroon or gold set up grills, blasted music and celebrated their schools in true southern fashion.
Tailgating at the Classic isn’t just about food, it’s about community. Generations of families reunite, student groups put on showcases, and fans swap stories about their HBCU pride. The anticipation builds from the early hours of the morning, creating a festival-like atmosphere that spills right into kickoff.
As the sun dipped low, the UAPB Golden Lions and the Alcorn State Braves finally took the field. From the opening whistle, the energy inside the stadium was electric — fans cheering every yard gained, every defensive stand and, of course, every halftime note played by the bands.
Both teams brought intensity, eager to etch their names into the history of the Classic. Alcorn, making its debut in the storied event, was determined to prove itself. UAPB, equally motivated, came prepared to show pride for their alumni and fans who had traveled from across the region.
In the end, the Golden Lions held off the Braves in a dramatic finish, securing a 24–20 win in front of thousands of roaring fans. Quarterback Christian Peters led the charge with a career night, while Alcorn’s Jacorian Sewell turned heads with an incredible 225-yard rushing performance.
While the scoreboard told one story, the real narrative was about tradition, pride and culture. The Southern Heritage Classic continues to be more than football. It’s about the sound of the marching bands echoing through Memphis neighborhoods, the tailgates that feel like family reunions and the legacy of HBCUs shining on one of the biggest stages in the South.
As Johnson put it best, the Classic is alive and well — evolving with new rivalries but always rooted in the same spirit: celebrating heritage, community and HBCU pride.
