Overview
- Alabama State, which defeated Southern on Saturday, Aug. 29, overcame an early 14–3 deficit to win the first Birmingham Classic at Legion Field.
- Marshall Faulk made his head‑coaching debut for Southern and saw his team open strongly with Christian Johnson at quarterback, giving a promising early look despite the loss.
- Andrew Body returned to Alabama State after the transfer portal and was a focal point as the Hornets shifted momentum and closed out the game.
- The game drew heavy tailgating and marching band pageantry and was carried on ESPNU, underscoring growing national media interest in HBCU showcase events.
- Analysts said the result gives Alabama State season momentum but also revealed offensive inconsistencies to fix, while Southern’s performance under Faulk could boost recruiting and competitiveness in the SWAC.