by Patrick Edmond III
The North Carolina A&T Football Team is looking to change history, the Aggies are on pace to accomplish an unprecedented feat; going undefeated, winning the MEAC (Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference), and potentially winning the Celebration Bowl all in one season.
Saturday, the 2017 NC A&T football team became 10-0 for the first time in school history after defeating the Savannah State Tigers in a dominant 36-10 victory. The aggies are also currently 7th in the nation in the FCS rankings, and hold the top spot in the MEAC. Lamar Raynard, A&T’s star quarterback, has also surpassed the single season North Carolina A&T passing record during this stretch of wins.
In 2015, NC A&T defeated Alcorn St, winning the first ever Air Force Reserve Celebration Bowl in a thrilling 41-34 victory. The win over Alcorn made the Aggies the designated HBCU National Champions. The following year, the team had a disappointing end to the season, failing to earn a spot in the Celebration Bowl. However, the aggies were selected to
play in the FCS NCAA tournament, but ultimately lost in the first round to the Richmond Spiders in a 39-10 defeat.
This year’s team has many stand out athletes. Franklin (Mac) McCain III, has been extremely productive for the team. He has accounted for 5 interceptions, including 3 of them being returned for touchdowns.
If McCain return another interception to the house, McCain will tie the FCS single season record. McCain was awarded with defensive player of the week in the win versus Norfolk St.
The Aggies also have stand out athletes on the offensive side. NFL hopeful Brandon Parker was named offensive lineman of the week against Norfolk. Parker is also set to represent the Aggies at the Senior Bowl in January.
With the season coming to a close, the North Carolina A&T Aggies are on a collision course to face the North Carolina Central University Eagles. The game between in state rivals will determine who plays in the Celebration Bowl. In the previous 3 matchups, the Aggies have lost. The Aggies would like their magical regular season to be capped off with a win versus their most hated opponent.
Next Saturday holds huge implications for the MEAC standings. With a loss against the North Carolina Central University, the chances for the Aggies winning the MEAC outright slims. The fate of the team is in its own hands.
