Writers Note: Special thanks to HBCU Gameday for this report. Always check back for updates.
PRIME ‘BAMA BEEF
Jackson Coach Deion Sanders has a very interesting relationship with the State of Alabama, even after his reconciliation with Saint Nick. For some reason, everyone with ‘Alabama’ in their school name has beef with the million dollar man in Jackson, Mississippi. Coach Eddie Robinson Jr., is just the latest.
Let’s rewind.
This latest drama began when it was announced that the Hornet’s October 8th homecoming opponent would be the undefeated Jackson State Tigers. Traditionally, a school would schedule an easier opponent for their homecoming celebration, to avoid dampening the mood on campus. While this is ASU’s first year introducing a typical homecoming-style game, the message was received in Jackson. An expert showman and master of media, Coach Prime welcomed this challenge, as set about building as much anticipation as possible.
In 2020, a spring pandemic-season game ended in a 35-28 ASU victory, the Hornets put an extra dash of emphasis on the win, by projecting a less than flattering picture of Sanders on the ASU Stadium jumbotron. Referring to this as a “money game”, Deion Sander sarcastically applauded the brilliance of ASU scheduling an opponent with a fan base that travels as well as the JSU Tiger faithful.
“All money ain’t good money, we gon’ learn.”
A HATER’S ADVOCATE
There are times to be a hater, and there are times when hating is absolutely necessary.
As previously mentioned, Alabama State’s particular distain for Coach Prime precedes Coach Robinson’s tenure in Montgomery, Alabama. Enter Robinson Jr., proud alumni of ASU and a retired NFL star (like Deion without the jacket), in his first season at his alma mater. Was Coach Robinson hating on Prime? Absolutely.
“I hope he comes back next year, I pray he don’t get a Power 5 job, so we can play them next year in Jackson. And I pray they put us for their damn homecoming.”
Praying an opponent doesn’t get a prestigious job in the future? That’s high-quality hating.
But was it valid? That’s debate for fans to have. What’s not debatable, is that Mr. Robinson has every right to respond to a master antagonist, and all perceived disrespect, in defense of his program. As a influential voice in the conference, it’s also Coach Robinson’s responsibility to speak up for the SWAC traditions that molded him. And if Team Sanders was alluding to this being another easy win, over a lowly program, that was certainly disproven.
Whether your an ASU Hornet, JSU Tiger or a Coach Prime disciple: next season’s match-up will be JSU’s Vet Stadium will be must-see TV — Watch this space.
THE CONVERSATION.