Tomorrow, the Howard University Bison and the Florida A&M (FAMU) Rattlers are set to clash in the 2023 Cricket Wireless Celebration Bowl. This historic matchup marks the first time these two programs have faced off in the Bowl's history, making it a momentous occasion for both teams. Additionally, it's worth noting that this game will be the first meeting between the Mecca and the Highest of the Seven Hills since 2019, before FAMU departed from the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) to join the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC).

The anticipation surrounding this game is palpable, as both Howard and FAMU are renowned HBCUs with a strong influence on the broader HBCU culture. Their impact extends even beyond the vibrant city of Atlanta, encompassing the AUC (Morehouse, Spelman, Clark Atlanta, Morris Brown) and beyond.

On the campus of Howard University, there is plenty of excitement to go around.  The atmosphere is matching that of when the Men's Basketball team made it to the NCAA Tournament the school year prior and the Women's team the year before that.  Plenty of Howard Alumni are making statements on social media repping their school. Class of 2020 Alumnus Marquette Smith remembers a time when the team wasn't strong in its play.

“I remember back in 2016 when the team would lose almost every single game. Such a huge improvement from then,” Smith said.

When asked if he was gonna be in attendance for the big matchup he said yes.

Class of 2023 Alumnus Joshua Heron spoke about the feeling last year when the team won the conference but fell short of the Celebration Bowl.

“I'm elated that Howard is going to the Celebration Bowl. Although we won MEAC last year it still felt unsatisfactory given that we wouldn't be able to play in the bowl game. But, to be here now it's a testament to the Howard spirit of resilience,” said Heron.

He also spoke highly of Head Coach Larry Scott for the job that he's done since taking over the program. “Howard hired coach Scott 2020 and I came to Howard that fall. The team has improved every year since then because Scott is building a stable culture on a solid foundation.”

Heron also explained the importance of the game being that it is against FAMU.

“Big for black culture. Don't just expect a football game, that stadium will be a block party. Pun intended, those two schools colliding lends for Black celebration.”

Promise Achi, a junior in the Howard University SHOWTIME Marching Band had this to say when asked about his feelings going in performing for halftime.

“Really nerve-wracking, especially since we're going against a band like FAMU,” said Achi. “Even though we might not have what FAMU has, I still think we can hold our own.”

Senior Gavin Brown talked about why Howard needs to win this game. And the importance of the Celebration Bowl.

“We need to fund our school. And as you can see from this weekend from College Football, it's a business. So, if Howard can generate more money, it means we can have better facilities for our student-athletes” said Brown. Howard students are extremely confident in the Bison's chances against the Rattlers and it is looking to be an exciting affair in Atlanta.