North Carolina Central Opens 2025 Season with Statement Win Over Southern in MEAC/SWAC Challenge
North Carolina Central wasted no time proving its readiness for the new season, rolling past Southern University 31-14 in the 2025 MEAC/SWAC Challenge at Center Parc Stadium in Atlanta. The Eagles’ balanced attack on both sides of the ball gave them a convincing win and early momentum for the year.
Harris, Mosley Lead the Charge
Quarterback Walker Harris looked sharp from the jump, completing 19 of 24 passes for 183 yards and a touchdown while spreading the ball to nine different receivers. The ground game, however, stole the spotlight. Running back Chris Mosley exploded for 174 yards on just 15 carries, including a momentum-shifting 49-yard touchdown just before halftime.
Mosley’s performance earned him MVP honors, and his long run was the turning point. “That run flipped the game,” Harris said after the win. “From that moment, we knew we had control.”
By the end, NCCU racked up 414 total yards, converted nearly half of its third-down chances, and found the end zone with ease thanks to touchdowns from Mosley, Arthur Rodgers, and Aleni Mageo.
Southern’s Big Plays Not Enough
Southern struck first with explosive runs from Trey Holly (80 yards) and Cam’Ron McCoy (69 yards), giving the Jaguars flashes of momentum. But after Mosley’s big touchdown run, the Eagles went into halftime up 17-14 — a lead they never surrendered.
The third quarter sealed it. Harris connected with Kyle Morgan on a three-yard strike, then Mageo powered in a short touchdown run to extend the lead to 31-14. From there, NCCU leaned on defense and clock management to finish the job.
Defense Clamps Down
While the Eagles didn’t pile up turnovers, their defense delivered when it mattered most. Linebacker Thomas Johnson led the charge with seven tackles and two tackles for loss, anchoring a unit that allowed just 92 passing yards.
NCCU also controlled time of possession, holding the ball for over 35 minutes compared to Southern’s 25. Third downs were critical — Southern managed only 2-for-10, preventing any sustained drives after halftime.
Fans, Bands, and Atmosphere
Southern brought plenty of energy off the field. The Jaguars traveled with a large group of fans and their world-renowned “Human Jukebox” Marching Band, filling the stadium with the classic HBCU atmosphere. Early fireworks on offense had the crowd buzzing, but after halftime, the Jaguars’ offense sputtered. Despite outgaining NCCU on the ground, Southern’s lack of balance proved costly.
A Clear Statement from NCCU
For North Carolina Central, this win sets the tone for the MEAC season and their ultimate goal of returning to the Celebration Bowl. They showcased efficient quarterback play, a breakout rushing star in Mosley, and a disciplined defense that shut the door when it mattered.
Southern, meanwhile, leaves Atlanta with plenty of excitement in the stands but questions about consistency on the field.
One thing is certain: in Week Zero, NCCU reminded everyone that they plan to stay in the HBCU spotlight in 2025
