ATLANTA — The Black College Football Hall of Fame (BCFHOF) will enshrine its six-member class at the 17th annual ceremony at 7 p.m. Saturday at the College Football Hall of Fame presented by the Atlanta Falcons.

The Black College Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026 includes:

• Jimmy Smith (Jackson State)

• Eddie Robinson, Jr. (Alabama State)

• Nick Collins (Bethune-Cookman)

• Tyrone Poole (Fort Valley State)

• Coach Rudy Hubbard (Florida A&M)

• Steve Wyche (Howard)

“What we have with the Class of 2026 is an incredible showcase of excellence, leadership, and impact that continues to come from Historically Black Colleges and Universities,” said Black College Football Hall of Fame Co-Founder and 2011 Inductee Doug Williams. “When the Black College Hall of Fame was established, its purpose was to elevate and recognize the past, present, and future of Black College Football. This class exemplifies that mission.”

 

Today we take a look at coach Rudy Hubbard — FAMU

 

Legendary Florida A&M Head Football Coach — Served as head coach from 1974–1985, compiling an 83–48–3 record, ranking among the winningest coaches in school history.

National and Black College Football Champion — Led the Rattlers to the inaugural NCAA Division I‑AA Football Championship in 1978 and back‑to‑back Black College National Championships in 1977 and 1978, a historic achievement for HBCU football.

Orange Blossom Classic Success — Guided Florida A&M to five consecutive Orange Blossom Classic victories (1974–1978), solidifying the Rattlers’ dominance in HBCU football.

College Football Hall of Fame Inductee — Enshrined in the College Football Hall of Fame as a coach (Class of 2021), honoring his leadership, championship pedigree, and lasting impact on the game.

Ohio State Running Back and Historic Assistant Coach — Lettered at Ohio State from 1965–1967 and became the first African-American assistant coach on Woody Hayes’ staff, contributing to multiple championship teams.

High School Head Coach and Community Leader — Returned to coaching later at James S. Rickards High School in Tallahassee, continuing his dedication to mentoring young athletes before retirement.

Photo credit: Tallahassee Democrat