More players are encouraged to play at HBCUs, says Aubrey Miller Jr. He is the star linebacker for Jackson State University and the SWAC Defensive Player of the Year.
Even though JSU’s good times under Coach Prime are over, Miller is still upbeat. Following Saturday’s game, he offered advice to Black men thinking about a future in football.
“Your talent needs to come back home. You need to play for your people. If we do it you can do it,” he said with confidence and pride.
JSU star linebacker @Loose_Qannon and the SWAC Defensive Player of the Year puts the call out more players to play at HBCUs.
"Your talent needs to come back home. You need to play for your people. If we do it you can do it." pic.twitter.com/PJ686tw1In
— Joe Cook WAPT (@JoeCookSports) December 17, 2022
According to 16 ABC, the Jackson State Tigers lost in the Celebration Bowl for the second consecutive season in the team’s final game with coach Deion Sanders. North Carolina Central defeated JSU 41-34 in overtime, the Tigers’ only loss of the 2022 season.
JSU allowed the most points they had all season as a team, and the Eagles rushed for 276 yards while the Tigers were limited to 68.
With a 27-6 record, an unblemished 11-0 regular season, and back-to-back SWAC championships, Deion Sanders leaves JSU to become head coach at Colorado. He thanked many, including athletic director Ashley Robinson, for allowing him to be a college head coach.
These were @DeionSanders final words as Jackson State's head coach. He thanked the media, @JacksonStateAD for the opportunity, the @SonicBoomOTS and more.
"The movement don't stop with although it may have started like that. But the movement is going to continue with a plan." pic.twitter.com/K6mzpneydN— Joe Cook WAPT (@JoeCookSports) December 17, 2022
Shedeur Sanders also talked about his experience attending an HBCU and being a part of the Jackson community after his final game wearing a Jackson State uniform. Miller sat beside him, ready to share his thoughts.
After his final game in a Jackson State uniform @ShedeurSanders summarizes his experience at an HBCU like @JacksonStateU and being a part of the Jackson community. pic.twitter.com/vObggOhcEj
— Joe Cook WAPT (@JoeCookSports) December 17, 2022
As soon as Miller’s video went up, the internet erupted in support. Some Twitter users’ opinions are collected below.
THANK YOU Aubrey Miller!! Let'em know. HBCU STRONG. Family for life!! #THEEiLove 💙💙💙 pic.twitter.com/TtRnG0TUd3
— Nina Brown (@mustang17613741) December 17, 2022
I agree good black players are welcome at HBCUs. Black also need the cultural experience HBCUs offer, that is not offered at PWIs.
— Dr Ronald E Anderson Sr (@DrRonaldEAnder1) December 18, 2022
— silversaiyan65 (@silversayian65) December 18, 2022