“These matchups represent exactly what the Cricket MEAC/SWAC Challenge Kickoff presented by Toyota is all about—outstanding competition, passionate fan bases and the traditions that make HBCU football special,” said John T. Grant, Executive Director of the Cricket MEAC/SWAC Challenge Kickoff and Cricket Celebration Bowl. Alabama State participated in the inaugural event in 2005, falling to South Carolina State, 27-14, at Legion Field in Birmingham, Alabama. 2029: South Carolina State vs. Alcorn StateThe 2029 matchup will pair Alcorn State with one of the most successful programs in the event’s history, South Carolina State. Alcorn State and South Carolina State will meet in the Cricket MEAC/SWAC Challenge Kickoff for the first time. First played in 2005, the Cricket MEAC/SWAC Challenge Kickoff has been held at Atlanta’s Center Parc Stadium since 2018.