By “Nunnie” Robinson
The highly anticipated Orange Blossom Classic returns to Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Saturday, August 30, at 4 p.m., featuring a historic showdown between Florida A&M University (FAMU) and Howard University. The game will be broadcast nationally on ESPNU.
Leading the FAMU Rattlers is head coach Neal Colzie, while the Howard Bison will be under the guidance of head coach Larry Scott. The game not only continues a rich tradition but also reignites a fierce rivalry between two of the nation’s most prestigious Historical Black Colleges and Universities. President Marva Johnson, Esquire and Howard University President Dr. Ben Vinson III will witness their institutions compete in a series that dates back decades, with FAMU currently holding a 30–11 lead. The last matchup occurred in the 2023 Celebration Bowl, where the Rattlers edged out the Bison in a tight 30–26 victory in Atlanta.
The Orange Blossom Classic was originally founded in 1933 by J.R.E. Lee Jr., the son of FAMU’s third president, J.R.E. Lee Sr. The inaugural event welcomed 2,000 fans to a segregated ballpark in Jacksonville, where FAMU defeated Howard 9–0, setting the stage for what would become a cornerstone in HBCU sports history.
Between 1933 and 1978, the Classic stood as the premier postseason HBCU football event. After more than four decades of dormancy, the Orange Blossom Classic returned in 2021 with a renewed purpose.
Beyond football, the Orange Blossom Classic supports tourism in South Florida, promotes economic opportunities for small businesses through its Business Unite program, and aims to inspire and educate communities about the powerful legacy and influence of HBCUs.
For more information and tickets, visit:orangeblossomclassic.com
