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Howard University’s historic journey to the Cricket Celebration Bowl marks a significant moment for the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), as the Bison secured their first-ever invitation after a hard-fought 14-7 victory over rival Morgan State University. With a season record of 6-5 and a conference record of 4-1, Howard’s late-season surge, including wins against North Carolina Central Eagles and Morgan State Bears, propelled them to this prestigious bowl game.
As the MEAC representative, Howard will face the champion of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). The SWAC Championship Game on December 2, 2023, will determine whether the Prairie View A&M Panthers or the Florida A&M Rattlers will earn the right to challenge Howard in Atlanta.
The Rattlers, led by SWAC Preseason Offensive Player of the Year Quarterback Jeremy Moussa, showcase a potent offense that led the SWAC in passing yards and touchdowns this season. Despite a previous convincing victory against the Panthers, FAMU Head Football Coach Willie Simmons emphasizes a “process-focused” approach to avoid underestimating their opponents.
On the other side, the disciplined Panthers, who are the third least penalized team in the SWAC, face a challenging task against the favored Rattlers. The SWAC Championship will be a clash of strengths and strategies, determining who will join the MEAC champion Howard Bison in the Cricket Celebration Bowl.
This annual event, now in its eighth year, has become a cornerstone in celebrating the heritage, legacy, pageantry, and tradition of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The championship-style game, broadcast nationally on ABC, brings together the best of MEAC and SWAC football.
In addition to the on-field action, the Celebration Bowl weekend features various ancillary events, including a fan experience, community service projects, and the inaugural Band of the Year National Championship. With a history of sellout crowds and substantial television viewership, the Celebration Bowl continues to grow in prominence.
For fans eager to witness this historic clash, tickets are available online to the Cricket Celebration Bowl at thecelebrationbowl.com or ticketmaster.com, ranging from $35 to $285. Special hotel rates are offered for MEAC and SWAC fans at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis and the Hilton Atlanta, respectively.
As Howard University makes its debut in the Cricket Celebration Bowl, the anticipation builds for a matchup that not only signifies excellence on the field but also celebrates the rich traditions of HBCU football. The MEAC and SWAC champions will collide in Atlanta, adding another chapter to the legacy of this premier college football bowl game.