DURHAM, N.C. (Interstat) — A pivotal late-season matchup with potential conference championship implications is set for Friday as the South Carolina State Bulldogs visit the North Carolina Central Eagles at O’Kelly-Riddick Stadium.

Both teams enter the Nov. 14, 2025, contest with identical 7-3 records, adding high stakes to the showdown. The game is projected to be a high-scoring affair, with Interstat’s simulator forecasting a 36-29 victory for the home-standing Eagles.

South Carolina State brings considerable momentum to Durham, riding a three-game winning streak. The Bulldogs are coming off a dominant 42-12 victory over Howard last Saturday. Their offense has been potent, averaging over 40 points per game during their current streak, led by quarterback William Atkins IV and versatile athlete Josh Shaw.

North Carolina Central also secured a hard-fought win last weekend, edging Norfolk State 31-28. The Eagles’ offense is powered by quarterback Walker Harris, who threw for 265 yards and three touchdowns in that victory, and running back Arthur Rodgers Jr., a dual-threat out of the backfield.

The Eagles’ three losses this season have come against FBS opponent Old Dominion and conference foes Delaware State and New Hampshire. The Bulldogs’ defeats were against FBS teams South Florida and South Carolina, plus a setback to Charleston Southern.

With just one game each remaining in the regular season after this contest, the outcome could be decisive for postseason positioning. South Carolina State travels to Delaware State on Nov. 22, while North Carolina Central will visit Morgan State.