Two of the top teams in the SWAC will meet at Legion Field this weekend.
Alabama State and Alabama A&M have records to be proud of, but after Saturday only one will have the only thing that seems to matter in the Magic City Classic--bragging rights.
"The audience, the people that are there, it's a different feel," ASU coach Reggie Barlow said at Wednesday's media day. "It's a different game and it's a special game."
Barlow and Alabama A&M coach Anthony Jones understand the unique dynamic better than most. Both enjoyed success, first, as a college football player, followed by a run in the NFL that netted each coach a Super Bowl Championship ring. Just like the NFL's title game, the Magic City Classic has a reputation as a platform where legends are made.
"Stars will be born," Jones said at media day. "Some guys who have been distant a little bit will come back to life. You never know."
"It is a big game and you only get one time a year to play it," Barlow said, "It should mean something to us. We want them to embrace the opportunity."
The 71st Magic City Classic between Alabama State and Alabama A&M kicks off at Legion Field Saturday afternoon at 2:30.
