🏈 2025 SWAC Preview: Are FAMU and PVAMU Poised to Upset the Favorites?

The Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) revealed its predicted order of finish for the 2025 football season on July 16 during SWAC Football Media Day in Birmingham, Alabama. Voted on by head coaches and sports information directors, the preseason poll set clear favorites, but it also leaves room for a couple of major upsets.

🏆 SWAC East – Preseason Rankings

1. Jackson State – 126 points (16 first-place votes)

2. Florida A&M – 99 points (3)

3. Alabama State – 91 points (2)

4. Alabama A&M – 62 points

5. Bethune‑Cookman – 45 points (1)

6. Mississippi Valley State – 24 points

   
   

Jackson State enters the season as the dominant pick to win the East Division, gathering the majority of first-place votes. Florida A&M and Alabama State round out the top three, but the Rattlers might be more dangerous than their second-place position suggests.

🌪 Potential Upset: Florida A&M

Florida A&M may be ranked second, but they have the tools to go the distance. With three first-place votes and a championship-caliber history, the Rattlers are more than just a safe pick—they’re a legitimate threat to Jackson State’s top spot. If FAMU can stay healthy and lean into their experience, they could very well claim the East title.

⚔️ SWAC West – Preseason Rankings

1. Southern – 120 points (17 first-place votes)

2. Alcorn State – 90 points (2)

3. Prairie View A&M – 72 points (1)

4. Texas Southern – 60 points

5. Grambling State – 55 points

6. Arkansas‑Pine Bluff – 28 points (1)

Southern stands tall as the favorite in the West Division, but the race may be tighter than expected.

🌠 Dark Horse: Prairie View A&M

Prairie View A&M enters the season with underdog potential. Despite being picked third, they received a first-place vote and boast a savvy coaching staff. If PVAMU can bring consistency and capitalize on key games—especially against Southern and Alcorn State—they could disrupt the expected order and rise to the top of the West.

🔍 Why PVAMU & FAMU Could Dominate

Strategic Advantages:

• Experienced Rosters: Both teams return key players who’ve been battle-tested.

• Coaching Stability: Proven leadership helps teams execute under pressure.

• 2024 Momentum: Both programs ended last season strong and have carried that confidence into 2025.

Key Matchups to Watch:

• FAMU vs. Jackson State: Could decide the East Division.

• PVAMU vs. Southern/Alcorn State: Crucial games that may shape the West.

📊 Season Outlook: Preseason Picks vs. Wildcard Upsets

🏁 Final Word

While Jackson State and Southern lead the preseason polls, don’t overlook Florida A&M and Prairie View A&M. Both have the depth, leadership, and motivation to flip the script this fall.

Get ready for a thrilling SWAC season filled with high-stakes matchups, unexpected twists, and bold breakout performances.