Raiders join in celebration of HBCU football

When the Jackson State Tigers and Grambling State Tigers face off in the inaugural Las Vegas HBCU Classic on Saturday, it will be more than just a game for the hometown Raiders.

Not only does the game serve as a celebration of HBCU football programs, but the fact the game takes place in Las Vegas is significant in its own right. The Raiders have long had a rich history with HBCU football, and this is just the latest tie between the two.

“The connection between the Raiders and HBCU football is ingrained in the history of our franchise,” Raiders owner Mark Davis said. “Some of the greatest players to have worn the Silver and Black came from HBCU schools and found an opportunity in professional football during a time when many of them were being overlooked.

“It is a great honor to host these two storied programs at our home, Allegiant Stadium, and bring the passion and pageantry of HBCU football to Las Vegas.”

In 1968, the Raiders and then-owner Al Davis made NFL history when they selected Tennessee State quarterback Eldridge Dickey with the 25th overall pick, making him the first-ever black quarterback to be taken in the first round of either the NFL or AFL draft.

Dickey’s selection was just one of the more notable of the Raiders’ drafting of HBCU talent, as 75 players and eight coaches have come from HBCUs to the team since their inception in 1960. Another notable figure, Maryland State (now Maryland Eastern Shore) offensive tackle Art Shell, was drafted in the third round of 1968 and pursued a Hall of Fame playing career. Davis would once again push the boundaries when it came to Shell, naming him as the first black head coach in NFL history in 1989.

“The Raiders and the former owner, Al Davis, gave us an opportunity to come in and showcase our talent, and it didn’t matter what your background was,” former Raiders and Grambling State tight end Andrew Glover said. “He was looking for somebody that can come in and do a job. … I know HBCUs from around the country are well represented in that organization.”

The Raiders have been willing to give the spotlight over to HBCUs, and the game between two of their most historic football programs will hopefully add to that endeavor.