This historic partnership underscores a rising era of recognition for HBCU athletics and will showcase a must-see clash of champions: the Miles College Golden Bears (2024 SIAC Champions) versus the Virginia Union University Panthers (2024 CIAA Champions). The showdown unfolds at the iconic Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio—home of the Pro Football Hall of Fame—on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at 4 PM ET.

Adding to the big-game atmosphere, the broadcast will feature an all-star NFL Network team, including:

  • Steve Wyche, Play-By-Play Announcer
  • Bucky Brooks, Analyst
  • Isaiah Stanback, Analyst
  • Bridget Condon, Sideline Reporter

Fans will not only witness a championship-caliber matchup, but also the trophy and MVP award presentation that caps off this celebration of excellence and tradition.

WHEN:  The simulcast will air live on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at 4 PM ET.

WHERE TO WATCH

  • HBCU GO: Streaming & mobile apps, HBCUGO.tv, and free platforms including Local Now, Sports.tv or wherever you stream.
  • NFL Network: NFL Network is available nationwide via cable and satellite TV providers. NFL Network is also available on NFL+, the league’s direct-to-consumer offering available through NFL digital properties (NFL.com and the NFL app), and on an authenticated basis through NFL Network distributors’ apps/sites and NFL digital platforms.

WHY THIS MATTERS:      

This historic simulcast partnership is a testament to the growing national recognition of HBCU athletics and the importance of amplifying the stories of these institutions. The Black College Football Hall of Fame Classic isn’t just a game—it’s a cultural celebration, honoring the legacy, impact, and future of HBCU football. By simulcasting this year’s Classic, HBCU GO and NFL Network are broadcasting these stories to a wider national audience than ever before.

Programming Reminders:

Victory Formation – Debuted Saturday, August 16, 2025, with a one-hour preview special featuring Curtis Symonds & Tolly Carr; new episodes air weekly through November 22, 2025.

2025 Football Season Opener – Saturday, August 30, 2025

Opening weekend kicks off with a weekly doubleheader format that continues throughout the season, bringing fans two HBCU matchups every Saturday.

Game 1: Hampton University vs. Jackson State University @ 3 p.m. ET

Game 2: Fayetteville State University at Benedict College @ 5 p.m. ET

HOW TO WATCH

  • Fans can catch all the action on multiple platforms:
  • Broadcast syndication in major U.S. TV markets, including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, Dallas, Atlanta, and more (check local listings).
  • National broadcasts on theGrio Television Network.

Streaming access via:

  • The HBCU GO mobile app & HBCU.tv
  • Free-streaming platforms including Local Now  
  • Armed Forces Network
  • FanDuel TV 

Don’t miss a moment of the energy, tradition, and excellence that defines HBCU football. For more information, visit hbcugo.tv HBCU GO continues to set the standard for celebrating the rich culture and competition of HBCU sports. Click HERE for the complete 2025 Football Schedule. For more information, visit HBCUGO.tv or follow the streaming network on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram. Find out where to watch and download the FREE app at HBCUGO.tv/how to watch.