**Alabama State University Football Dominates 84th Magic City Classic with 56-13 Victory over Alabama A&M**
Alabama State University football delivered a commanding performance in the 84th Magic City Classic, defeating in-state rival Alabama A&M 56-13 on Saturday afternoon at Legion Field. The game was witnessed by a crowd of 69,372 fans.
The win marked the Hornets’ fourth straight victory in the Magic City Classic. Standout players Jalil Lenore and Birmingham native Jalen Jones were named the Classic’s defensive and offensive MVPs, respectively.
Quarterback Andrew Body led the charge for the Hornets, putting together a near-perfect outing. The junior completed 19 of 24 passes for 304 yards and five touchdowns, adding a rushing score as well. Alabama State’s offense rolled up an impressive 616 total yards.
The Hornets’ offensive surge began early and never slowed down. After Alabama A&M struck first with an 8-yard touchdown run, Alabama State responded with 21 unanswered points in the opening quarter. The quarter was capped by a 17-yard touchdown run from Marcu Harris II, giving the Hornets a 21-6 lead.
Body threw four touchdowns in the first half, including two to Dylan Creech, one to Harris, and a 59-yard strike to Jalen Jones. Jones finished the day with seven receptions for 156 yards and a touchdown. Dylan Djete also contributed with an 18-yard touchdown reception in the second quarter, helping Alabama State build a commanding 49-6 halftime lead.
Alabama State continued its dominance in the third quarter, highlighted by a 13-yard touchdown run from Jahbari Kuykendall, who led all rushers with 101 yards on seven carries. The Hornets’ rushing attack totaled 303 yards on 40 attempts, averaging an impressive 7.6 yards per carry.
Defensively, Alabama State stifled the Bulldogs, limiting Alabama A&M to just 143 total yards. The Hornets forced two interceptions and recorded four sacks. They converted on all seven red-zone opportunities and committed zero turnovers, controlling possession for more than 33 minutes.
With the victory, Alabama State improved to 5-2 overall and 3-1 in SWAC play. Alabama A&M dropped to 4-4 overall and 1-3 in conference play.
—
### Magic City Classic Parade Celebrates Community Spirit
The excitement of the Magic City Classic extended beyond the football field with the Magic City Classic Parade, presented by Disney on the Yard, which took over downtown Birmingham on Saturday morning.
The parade featured an array of bands, dance teams, and entertainment, including performances by Alabama State University and Alabama A&M University groups. Despite rainy weather, the parade proceeded rain or shine, starting at 18th Street North and 7th Avenue North.
Highlights included appearances by Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin, Representative Terri Sewell, and Senator Rodger Smitherman. The lineup showcased the ASU Mighty Marching Hornet Band, the Marching Maroon and White Band from Alabama A&M, and numerous local high school bands and community groups.
Attendees enjoyed a variety of floats from sponsors such as Amazon, Coca-Cola, and Alabama Power, along with energetic performances from cheerleaders, dance teams, and other local organizations.
The parade was a vibrant celebration of community spirit and talent, complementing an unforgettable day of football rivalry and camaraderie.
—
Stay tuned for more updates on Alabama State University athletics and community events.
https://www.birminghamtimes.com/2025/10/hornets-dominate-alabama-am-in-a-positive-magic-city-classic/
