For many years, success for HBCUs in the NCAA Division II playoffs was rare, with teams often faltering against their non-HBCU counterparts despite possessing clear talent. Yet, recent history, driven by playoff contenders from the SIAC and CIAA, has proven that HBCUs are ready to contend for a national championship, as seen with deep runs by programs like Virginia Union and Miles College last year. This season is the latest proof of concept: five HBCUs were selected for the Division II playoffs , and now only two remain—Albany State and Benedict College.

They now face off in a matchup that is historic for several reasons. Not only are two HBCUs meeting in the playoffs for the right to advance to the quarterfinals, but this will be the third time that Albany State and Benedict College

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