CHICAGO – North Carolina A&T State will open the 2019 football season ranked in the STATS FCS Preseason Top 25 poll for the third time in the last four years. The Aggies are ranked 20th this year.
The Aggies opened the 2018 season with a statement win over FCS power Jacksonville State, before taking down an FBS opponent for the second year in a row with a huge victory at East Carolina. The Aggies claimed outright or a share of their fourth straight MEAC championship and their third Celebration Bowl victory.
North Carolina A&T, under the direction of second-year head coach Sam Washington, will open the 2019 season at home on Saturday, August 31 against Elon.
The Aggies are led by defensive standout Franklin “Mac” McCain III, an athletic corner who has been named to the All-MEAC first team in each of his first two seasons. He had eight interceptions, including four pick-sixes, with an incredible 374 return years.
The STATS FCS Top 25 will be released every Monday during the regular season, except for Sunday, Nov. 24, prior to the selection of the 24-team FCS playoff field. A final Top 25 will follow the FCS championship game, which will be held Jan. 11 in Frisco, Texas.