Audi Field will host the fifth annual “Truth and Service Classic” college football game between Howard University and Hampton on Saturday, September 20.
Kickoff will be at 4 p.m. ET.
“We are honored to continue this amazing tradition between Howard University and Hampton University for the fifth annual Truth and Service Classic here at Audi Field,” Danita Johnson, D.C. United President of Business Operations said. “The past four years have been a tremendous success, celebrating both historic universities, and we look forward to hosting another weekend full of memorable experiences.”
The historic rivalry between two prominent historically Black colleges dates back to the “Battle for the Real HU.” The rivalry is fueled by both schools’ claims to the “HU” nickname and their long-standing academic and athletic legacy.
Hampton leads the overall series with a 57-74-1 record. In last year’s Truth and Service Classic, the Pirates defeated Howard 27-20 at Audi Field in front of 16,813 fans. The rivalry is more than just a game; it celebrates pride, culture, and tradition within the Black college football community.
“The Truth and Service Classic has become a cornerstone of our football season — a game that brings together tradition, pride, and purpose,” said Kery Davis, Howard University Vice President and Director of Athletics. “When Howard and Hampton take the field, it’s more than just a game; it’s a showcase of HBCU excellence, legacy, and community. This matchup has energized our players, alumni, and students year after year.
“I look forward to seeing Audi Field full of Bison fans on September 20. Their energy fuels our team, and there’s nothing like playing in front of a united Howard University crowd determined to help us reclaim bragging rights and remind everyone what it means to be ‘the real HU,” Davis added.
The Truth and Service Classic was established in 2021 when Audi Field hosted Howard University against rival Hampton University. Hampton University won the inaugural Truth and Service Classic at Audi Field, defeating the Howard Bison 48-22 in 2021. In 2022, Howard University hosted Harvard University in the second installment of the Truth and Service Classic at Audi Field, falling 41-25 to the visitors. The third Truth and Service Classic was a Hampton win, narrowly defeating 35-34. The Pirates hold a 3-0 record in the Truth and Service Classic.
“The Truth and Service Classic is one of the premier showcases of HBCU football, and the Hampton-Howard rivalry continues to be a defining moment in our season,” said Anthony D. Henderson Sr., Hampton University Director of Intercollegiate Athletics. “This matchup represents more than competition — a celebration of tradition, excellence, and the shared legacy of two historic institutions.”
“Each year, this game reignites the debate over who holds the title ‘The Real HU.’ And as far as we’re concerned, that legacy lives proudly at our Home by the Sea. Our student-athletes, alumni, and fans rally around this game with unmatched energy and pride.
“We look forward to bringing that Hampton spirit to Audi Field on September 20 and showcasing what it truly means to represent Hampton University on and off the field.”