HBCU Band Preseason Poll: Powerhouses Clash at the Top in 2025 Red Lobster Band of The Year
The 2025 season signals the third edition of the Red Lobster Band of The Year competition, a showcase that has rapidly become one of the premier stages for HBCU marching bands. The format divides programs into Division I and Division II/NAIA, with the top two in each group advancing to Atlanta for head-to-head battles that will determine national champions.
For the third straight year, HBCU Gameday is partnering with ESPN Events to deliver complete rankings coverage, giving fans a front-row seat to how their favorite bands stack up week after week. With bragging rights, legacies, and national titles on the line, the competition is shaping up to be more intense than ever.
A Tradition of Champions
The Red Lobster Band of The Year already boasts a rich history of elite clashes. In 2023, the North Carolina A&T Blue and Gold Marching Machine won the first Division I crown by defeating the Jackson State Sonic Boom of the South. A year later, the Florida A&M Marching 100 emerged on top, edging A&T in a showdown between two of the sport’s most iconic names.
Now, heading into 2025, both past champions are back in the hunt, setting the stage for another thrilling race.
Poll Results: NCAT on Top, JSU Right Behind
The inaugural 2025 media poll ballots were tallied last week, revealing just how competitive this season could be.
North Carolina A&T leads the way in Division I with 585 points, just ahead of Jackson State (573) and Norfolk State (570). Bethune-Cookman (567) sits close in fourth, while defending champ Florida A&M (531) rounds out the top five.
Other programs cracking the top 10 include Alabama State, Southern, Texas Southern, Prairie View A&M, and Tennessee State.
2025 HBCU Division I Preseason Poll
- North Carolina A&T – 585
- Jackson State – 573
- Norfolk State – 570
- Bethune-Cookman – 567
- Florida A&M – 531
- Alabama State – 514
- Southern – 514
- Texas Southern – 514
- Prairie View A&M – 491
- Tennessee State – 474
Breaking Down the Scores
Bands were judged across several categories, showcasing the full artistry of HBCU performances:
- Musicality: Norfolk State, North Carolina A&T, and Florida A&M all tied with scores of 122.
- Drill & Design: Florida A&M, Bethune-Cookman, and Southern stood out for creativity and precision.
- Percussion: Norfolk State led with 123 points, followed by Bethune-Cookman and Florida A&M.
- Drum Majors: Jackson State and North Carolina A&T tied for first with 123 points apiece.
- Auxiliaries: North Carolina A&T topped the list with 121 points, edging Southern and Alabama State.
The Road to Atlanta
With just a handful of points separating the top five contenders, the 2025 race could be the tightest yet. Every halftime show will matter as bands battle for their spot in Atlanta and a chance at the ultimate title.
The Red Lobster Band of The Year continues to highlight the artistry, tradition, and culture of HBCU marching bands—celebrating the sound, movement, and spirit that make them central to campus life and national recognition.
