I still remember the chill in the air last November when Howard Football wrapped up their 2023 season with that dramatic overtime victory against Norfolk State. As someone who's followed this program for over a decade, I've got to say this past season felt different - there was this electric energy around the team that we haven't seen in years. Let me walk you through what made this season special and why I'm genuinely excited about where this program is headed.
The Bison finished with a solid 7-4 record, which might not sound spectacular until you consider they went 5-6 just the previous year. What really stood out to me was their offensive transformation - they averaged 31.2 points per game compared to last season's 24.8. I watched quarterback Quinton Williams develop into this incredible dual-threat player, throwing for 2,893 yards and 24 touchdowns while adding another 412 rushing yards. The kid made plays when it mattered most, especially during that three-game winning streak in October where they put up 38 points per game. Defensively, they were surprisingly stout against the run, allowing just 3.8 yards per carry after giving up 4.9 the previous season. Those numbers might not mean much to casual fans, but trust me, that's a massive improvement that speaks volumes about the coaching staff's ability to develop talent.
Now here's where things get really interesting for next season. The conference is shaking things up in a way I haven't seen before. Unlike in recent conferences, the semis will be played in a single-round robin format. This changes everything strategically. Instead of the traditional home-and-away series we're used to, teams will only face each other once during the semifinal rounds. I actually love this format change because it creates more must-win scenarios and reduces the advantage of having a deep roster. For a program like Howard that's building momentum, this could work in their favor. Imagine this scenario - they're sitting at 6-2 heading into November, needing just two wins against three tough opponents to secure a semifinal spot. Under the old system, they'd have to face each team twice, which would test their depth considerably. But with single matches, they can focus all their energy on specific game plans for each opponent.
Looking ahead to 2024, I'm particularly excited about the returning talent. Running back Jarett Hunter is coming back after rushing for 1,087 yards, and I've heard through the grapevine that their recruiting class includes three four-star prospects, which is unprecedented for this program. The offensive line returns four starters, which gives me confidence they can maintain that offensive production. Where I'm a bit concerned is the secondary - they're losing both starting cornerbacks to graduation, and that's tough to replace immediately. But if they can develop the young defensive backs during spring practice, I think they'll be competitive in the new format.
The single-round robin format actually plays to Howard's strengths in my opinion. They've shown they can prepare exceptionally well for single games against quality opponents - remember that stunning upset against South Carolina State last season? Under this new system, that kind of focused preparation becomes even more valuable. Coaches can tailor game plans specifically for each opponent without worrying about saving strategies for return matches. It creates more variability in outcomes, which means a well-coached team like Howard can potentially punch above their weight class. I've spoken to several players off the record, and they're genuinely excited about the format change - it feels fresher and more tournament-like, which brings a different kind of energy to the season.
What really has me optimistic is the culture Head Coach Larry Scott is building. I've attended about a dozen practices over the past two seasons, and the difference in player development and team chemistry is noticeable. They're recruiting players who fit specific system roles rather than just chasing star ratings, which I think is the right approach for a program at this level. The strength and conditioning program has produced remarkable results too - I'd estimate about 80% of returning players have shown measurable improvements in their combine metrics. That attention to detail matters, especially when every game becomes crucial in the new format.
There are challenges ahead, of course. The non-conference schedule includes games against two FBS opponents, which will test their depth early in the season. And the new format means there's less margin for error - a single bad game could derail their semifinal hopes completely. But I believe this team has the leadership and coaching to navigate these challenges. The way they finished last season, winning four of their final five games, shows they can handle pressure situations.
If they can stay healthy - and let's be honest, every team needs some luck in that department - I could see them winning 8 or even 9 games next season. The combination of returning experience, improved recruiting, and the strategic advantages of the new format creates this perfect storm of opportunity. I haven't been this bullish on Howard Football's prospects since the 1990s, and I think fans have legitimate reasons to be excited. The program isn't just rebuilding - it's evolving in ways that could make them a consistent contender in the new conference landscape. Mark my words, this team is going to surprise some people next fall.
