HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (Interstat) — A pivotal Southwestern Athletic Conference East Division showdown is set for Saturday at Louis Crews Stadium as the Alabama A&M Bulldogs host the Alabama State Hornets.

Both teams enter the contest with 4-2 records in conference play and identical 4-3 marks overall, making this a critical matchup in the division race. The game is projected to be a nail-biter, with Interstat’s game simulator forecasting a 34-33 victory for the home-standing Bulldogs.

Alabama State looks to rebound from a tough 38-34 road loss to Jackson State on Oct. 11. In that game, Hornets quarterback Andrew Body was dynamic, passing for 349 yards and a touchdown while also rushing for 93 yards. The Hornets’ offense has been potent, averaging over 40 points in their four wins.

Alabama A&M is riding high after a 45-25 home victory over Mississippi Valley State. Bulldogs quarterback Eric Handley was efficient, completing 24 of 32 passes for 247 yards and two touchdowns. The Bulldogs’ season, however, has been marked by inconsistency, with lopsided wins followed by lopsided losses, including a 57-24 defeat to Jackson State the week before their latest victory.

Kickoff is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025. The intrastate rivalry, known as the Magic City Classic, is one of the most storied in HBCU football.