There is something in the air this week, as two perennial teams in the SWAC meet up for a showdown on Saturday. The words Jackson State versus Southern University get the heart pumping and rile up two of the most elite fanbases in the country. It is none other than the Boombox Classic, where everyone can expect an atmosphere that is arguably one of the most electrifying scenes in all of college football. From the bands to the football team, Southern and Jackson State will put on a show.
The Boombox Classic dates back to 1929, marking this year as the 71st matchup. The Jaguars lead the all-time series against Jackson State 35-33 (2 wins vacated). The game always means something, mainly because of pride. However, Jackson State has beaten the Southern Jaguars in the last four meetings, including a 14-27 win against the Jaguars on the road. However, it doesn’t come close to Southern having the record for the longest win streak out of the two teams, being 8 straight from 2013 to 2021.
Now, over the last four matchups, Southern has had numerous struggles on offense, only averaging 13.75 points per game. Now, after the big offensive explosion from redshirt freshman Czavian Teasett, who went 19 for 27 for 316 yards and three touchdowns, and junior quarterback Noah Bodden not being as efficient in the first two games, a potential question can be raised for who will be the starter come Saturday. Whoever it may be, they will be in an intense stadium atmosphere.
The game is always physical, and the team with the most composure and discipline tends to be the victor. It is clear, that these teams are no strangers to each other, having met up in the SWAC Championship game three times, with Southern winning the first two times. However, if Southern wants to end the streak, they will have to be a more disciplined, physical, and smarter football team because rivalries are emotional, but it is football at the end of the day. After the press conference, the players were not satisfied with the win against Savannah State, so they are already in a focused mindset in a game requiring immense effort.
A showdown for the ages is expected, and many fans hope Southern can restore its dominance over Jackson State. The game is scheduled for Saturday, September 14, 2023, at 6 PM, at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium in Jackson, Mississippi
