MetLife Stadium—The Howard Bison claimed victory in the 2024 HBCU NY Classic, defeating the Morehouse Maroon Tigers with a 35-14 win at MetLife Stadium, in front of a vibrant crowd of HBCU football fans.
Howard took control early, dominating the first half by amassing 220 yards of offense, while Morehouse managed just 50 yards. The Bison defense was particularly strong, limiting the Maroon Tigers to a staggering negative six rushing yards and just 2.27 yards per play. Quarterback Jaylon Tolbert led Howard on three scoring drives of 53 and 61 yards, establishing a solid first-quarter lead.
Morehouse’s wide receiver Ajani Williams put his team on the scoreboard with a touchdown after a 7-play, 58-yard drive, cutting Howard’s lead to 14-7 with 7:26 left in the second quarter.
However, Howard quickly responded with a 68-yard drive in just six plays, capped by Ke’Untae Mosley’s impressive 33-yard touchdown reception. The Bison entered the break with a commanding 21-7 lead.
In the opening moments of the third quarter, Ajani Williams fumbled the kickoff, giving Howard prime field position. Six plays later, Tolbert connected with Richie Illarraza on a 20-yard slant for another score, extending the Bison lead to 28-7 after Dylan West’s extra point.
Howard’s defense continued to dominate, making Morehouse one-dimensional by stifling their rushing attack. The Bison capitalized on their next possession, marching 98 yards in 13 plays. Tolbert hit Isiah Williams for a 20-yard touchdown, giving Howard a comfortable 35-7 lead early in the fourth quarter.
Morehouse’s Ajani Williams added another touchdown reception on a 21-yard pass from Scott, narrowing the score to 35-14 with 8:33 remaining. The Maroon Tigers managed one last score with a Miles-to-Kamrin Brunson touchdown late in the game, but it wasn’t enough.
With the win, Howard improved to 2-1, while rookie head coach Terence Mathis and the Morehouse Maroon Tigers dropped to 0-3 on the season.
