Full Breakdown
Grambling State Upsets Jackson State in Las Vegas HBCU Classic
10/26/2025, 1:14:51 PM
Dramatic Finish at Allegiant Stadium
In a thrilling conclusion to the inaugural Las Vegas HBCU Classic, Grambling State University defeated the 14th-ranked Jackson State University 26-24 on October 25, 2025. The game, held at Allegiant Stadium, showcased a dramatic comeback by Grambling, highlighted by a 44-yard field goal from Josh McCormick with just 21 seconds remaining. This victory marked Grambling's second consecutive win over Jackson State, despite the latter's strong start and high expectations.
Game Overview
Jackson State initially took control of the game, with quarterback JaCobian Morgan leading a 10-play, 86-yard drive that culminated in a 7-yard touchdown run, giving his team a 7-0 lead. Morgan's performance was cut short due to a lower leg injury, which forced him to leave the game in the first quarter. He was later seen on crutches and wearing a walking boot, indicating he would not return. Following his exit, redshirt freshman Parker Stofa stepped in but struggled to maintain the momentum.
Grambling State's quarterback C'zavian Teasett played a pivotal role, throwing for 232 yards and two touchdowns before leaving the game due to injury late in the fourth quarter. His performance included a 59-yard touchdown pass to Covadis Knighten just before halftime, narrowing the score to 10-9.
Turning Point and Key Plays
The second half saw a surge from Grambling, with Teasett leading a drive that resulted in a 16-yard rushing touchdown, giving them a 16-10 lead. Teasett later connected with Andrew Frazier for a 26-yard touchdown, extending the lead to 23-10. However, Jackson State responded with a scoring drive led by Jared Lockhart, who threw a 62-yard touchdown pass to Nate Rembert, followed by a 1-yard touchdown run that briefly gave Jackson State a 24-23 lead.
With the game on the line, backup quarterback A’Myne Darensbourg entered for Grambling and successfully guided the team into field-goal range, setting up McCormick's game-winning kick.
Player Performances
- Grambling State:
- C'zavian Teasett: 232 passing yards, 2 TDs
- Covadis Knighten: 96 receiving yards, 1 TD
- Josh McCormick: Game-winning 44-yard field goal
- Jackson State:
- JaCobian Morgan: 63 passing yards, 1 rushing TD (injured)
- Jared Lockhart: 96 passing yards, 2 TDs
- Donerio Davenport: 98 rushing yards
Official Statements & Responses
Following the game, Grambling State's head coach Mickey Joseph praised his team's resilience, particularly highlighting the performance of McCormick, who was brought in as a replacement kicker. Jackson State's coach T.C. Taylor expressed concern over Morgan's injury but did not provide specific details, stating, “I just know he couldn’t finish the game.”
What's Next
Grambling State (5-3, 2-2 SWAC) will host Prairie View A&M in their next matchup, while Jackson State (5-2, 3-1 SWAC) is set to face Florida A&M at Bragg Memorial Stadium on November 1, 2025. The outcome of these games will be crucial for both teams as they continue their campaigns in the Southwestern Athletic Conference.
