Road to the Championship

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We’re headed back!

On Saturday, the Johnson C. Smith University Golden Bulls defeated the Livingstone College Blue Bears in the historic Commemorative Classic — a matchup that celebrates the two teams’ legacy as the originators of Black college football.

With a 9–1 record, the Golden Bulls have achieved the best football record in the Queen City this season — collegiate or professional — and set a new University milestone for most wins in a single season.

Next weekend, JCSU will face Virginia Union University at Durham County Stadium in the CIAA Championship Game.

Before we look ahead to championship weekend, let’s take a moment to celebrate what happened on the field this past Saturday.

 

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Tailgate Information

Team Celebrates with the Commemorative CLassic Trophy

Championship Bound: No. 1 Virginia Union and No. 2 Johnson C. Smith Set for 55th Annual CIAA Football Championship in Durham

The stage is set for an historic finish to the 2025 CIAA Football season as No. 1 seed Virginia Union University and No. 2 seed Johnson C. Smith University prepare to meet in the 55th CIAA Football Championship on Saturday, November 15 at Durham County Memorial Stadium, marking the first CIAA Football title game played in Durham since 2015. 

 

Virginia Union enters as the two-time defending CIAA Champion, unbeaten in conference play and riding a seven-game win streak. The Panthers return to the championship stage with a chance to complete a rare three-peat and further solidify one of the most dominant modern runs in CIAA football history.

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Players holding the Commemorative Classic trophy

JCSU Commemorative Classic Victory Rekindles Spirit of 1892

Time stood still. The sun pierced the clouds over the Eddie McGirt Field at Johnson C. Smith University on November 8, 2025. In a thrilling turn of events, the Golden Bulls took down their 130 year old rival, Livingstone College, in a 26-21 photo finish. The Commemorative Classic victory sends the Golden Bulls straight to the CIAA Championships in Durham: JCSU vs. Virginia Union, November 15, 2025.

JCSU’s 15th President, Dr. Valerie Kinloch '96 celebrated the big win alongside Head Coach Maurice Flowers, Director of Athletics, Dr. Denisha Hendricks and the team. "I couldn’t be more honored to be a part of this moment and to lead Johnson C. Smith University into its next chapter."

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Watch the game locally in Charlotte

Graphic of game times

Starting at 3 p.m. this Saturday, WCCB-TV will carry the Championship Game live on television. 

If you are in the Queen City this weekend, here is how you can catch the game: 

  • Over-the-air: Channel 18.1

  • Spectrum Cable: Channels 11 and 1212 

  • Comporium Cable: Channel 0111

  • Directv: Channel 18

  • Dish Network: Channel 18 

  • AT&T Uverse: Channel 1018

Headed to Durham? Know before you go!

We’re excited to see our Golden Bulls compete for the 2025 CIAA Football Championship at Durham County Stadium this Saturday! If you’re planning to join us, here’s everything you need to know to make your game day smooth, fun, and championship-ready.

 

Tickets & Entry

Purchase your tickets in advance→

  • Entry is cashless; no cash accepted at the gate

  • Gates open early—arrive ahead of kickoff to avoid lines and soak in the excitement

 

Parking & Tailgating

 

Clear Bag Policy

Durham County Stadium enforces a clear bag policy. Please review the guidelines before arriving to ensure quick and easy entry.

Clear Bag Policy Graphic

Fan Fest Powered by Food Lion

Get there early for Fan Fest, featuring:

  • Music and live entertainment

  • Vendors and giveaways

  • Family-friendly activities

  • CIAA spirit and Golden Bull pride

CIAA Fireside Chat Flyer

 

 

Hotels  

Looking for accommodations?  

Let’s fill the stands, show our spirit, and cheer on the Golden Bulls as they chase the CIAA Championship title!

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