On Friday, Sept. 2, ESPN’s signature morning debate show First Take – featuring Stephen A. Smith and host Molly Qerim – will travel to Canton, Ohio, for the Black College Football Hall of Fame Classic weekend. The event, which features a four-day schedule, culminates on Sunday, Sept. 4 when the Central State Marauders meet Smith’s alma mater, the Winston-Salem State Rams, for the Classic Game.
This annual game continues to put the spotlight on two HBCU teams during Labor Day Weekend. The long holiday weekend will be filled with tailgating, music, and other entertainment, ahead of the anticipated matchup. If you’re unfamiliar, the Black College Football Hall of Fame was founded in 2009 by two legendary NFL quarterbacks and African American pioneers, James Harris, and Doug Williams. The intent has always been to preserve and share the history, as well as the stories, of the greatest HBCU football players, coaches, and contributors.
Smith and Qerim will be live from the First Take set at Tom Benson Stadium starting 10AM ET, and will be joined by Doug Williams as a special guest. The show will also feature performances by both schools’ bands, the Central State Invincible Marching Marauders, and the Winston-Salem State Red Sea of Sound.
“This appearance by First Take has been a longtime in the making,” said Smith. “As a graduate from an HBCU — Winston-Salem State University — there are no limits to the level of appreciation I have for Black Colleges throughout this nation. And there’s nothing that highlights the allure of Black Colleges more than football. From the marching bands to the games themselves, Black college football illuminates the Black college experience in ways that nothing else does. First Take is honored to play a role in bringing that message to its national television audience. We can’t wait to get there! See ya in Canton!”
