This rumor has been circulating for a while, ever since MEAC Commissioner Dennis Thomas made comments alluding to its possibilities during the MEAC/SWAC Challenge conference call.
But its full force now. Some fans have emailed the HBCU Sports Blog, asking if the MEAC has formally agreed to participate in the 2010 Heritage Bowl and forfeit its automatic bid in the FCS playoffs.
I’ve not heard any information to substantiate or refute this rumor, but I have contacted the conference office and hope to hear an official comment very soon.
Stay tuned for what may be the biggest story (or non-story) in black college sports in 2009.
MSU93 5:59 pm on December 10, 2009 Permalink
This would be a great thing if this is true..I say this only because I think its a mistake and after the first year of a low fan draw folks will see how little revenue is actually to be made in such a bowl. While its true we have not been that successful in the playoffs, over the past few years you get the feeling we are on the verge of something special. This years game had promise. The bulldogs couldve easily won this game but for that bobbled snap and score. I got the feeling that had they won this game they couldve easily moved deep into the playoffs if not won the whole ball of wax. Some folks would argue with the injury to Ford the Bulldogs didnt stand a chance but they have several good running backs and secondly Ford had very little impact on the game that they probably shouldve won. I say all this because I think we are better suited to continue to compete until we are successful…how does the saying go “if at first you fail try try again”. A bowl game that will draw limited fans most of would come only for the battle of the bands at half-time. The only way this would be a prudent move is if the bowl would draw over 50k fans to somewhat fill the professionals venue that the game would more than likely be played in. We look ridiculous on tv in a 80k seat stadium with 20K seats filled. I think thats more embarrasing that losing in a playoff game. That is if the game is televised.
REJ 10:23 pm on December 10, 2009 Permalink
The only way that the Heritage Bowl can work if it’s supported by a big-time sponsor, and accompanied by a series of events. For instance, to boost ticket sales and attendance, perhaps a sponsor can market a “Battle of the Bands”, college fair, or step-show around the bowl game. Or, make the half-time show star-studded, like Superbowl festivities. A Heritage Bowl game will not draw 50K fans, which, as I agree with MSU93’s comments, is needed for a viable television contract pull. The purpose would be not only to showcase HBCU football talent, but to gain revenues that these schools and conferences are greatly missing nowdays. However, I personally feel that FCS post-season opportunities are more advantageous for the school and conference represented for recruiting efforts and reputation. It baffles me as to why the SWAC plays for a conference championship, and passes on the chance to go to the playoffs. Poor Prairie View A&M- they have one of the best seasons ever, end the season ranked #20 or so in FCS football, and can’t bid for an at-large ranking because they’re playing Alabama A&M for…wow…a SWAC trophy. How do you recruit like that? “Young man, you’ll have a chance to play in the SWAC Championship game. No, I’m sorry, we don’t play the Richmonds, Montanas, or Appalachian States. But, come and get this SWAC trophy”. Unbelievable! Shouldn’t every athletic dept. of every FCS school(HBCU or traditional) shoot towards being the best of the best? Simply put, their goal should be the best within their division. And the only way to do that is to play for it. Although I respect other conferences in the FCS league, it hurts to see the MEAC get bashed for their lack of strength of schedule each year; even with SC State being a powerhouse over the last 2 years. Unfortunately, re-instating the Heritage Bowl will keep the HBCU schools from getting quality recruits and ultimately ruin the reputation of HBCU football in the long run.
MSU93 11:59 pm on December 10, 2009 Permalink
REJ…I agree with what youu have said. However, I find it sad that we have to had side attractions (battle of the bands, stepshow, etc.) to draw a substansive crowd to any of our games. We have great talent that come and play at HBCU’s especially at the DIV 1 level. But it is what it is. It has been said that the most important part of the game is the half-time show. Sad…………………
JC 12:00 am on December 11, 2009 Permalink
Maybe SWAC schools can’t recruit on the playoff principle, but they sure can tout playing in front of scouts and legions of fans at regionally popular classics, and with some regularity on ESPNU.
I’m not saying we shouldn’t compete in the playoffs. I’m just saying classics and bowls, to build the profile and resources of the conferences, may not be such a bad idea to build the competitive balance of HBCUs on the national scene.