A New Era for HBCU Football
When South Carolina State’s head coach Chennis Berry steps onto the practice field, his message is clear: the program’s strength lies in the bonds he forges with his players, not in the fleeting promises of name, image and likeness deals.
That philosophy has translated into results, as the Bulldogs captured consecutive MEAC championships and added a 2025 Celebration Bowl victory to their résumé, a feat achieved while navigating a landscape increasingly dominated by transfer activity and third‑party NIL agreements.
Relationships Over Transactions
Berry acknowledges that the modern era brings new tools — transfer portal entries, high‑profile signees, and lucrative off‑field endorsements — but he insists the program will wield them without allowing them to dictate its identity.
The 2026 signing class reflects that mindset, targeting athletes who embody championship character rather than hype, a strategy that mirrors the team’s broader emphasis on development.
The Rise of the Bulldogs
Linebacker Jordan Franklin exemplifies the payoff of patience and personal growth; after arriving as a freshman and waiting behind Aaron 'Bull' Smith, he emerged as a defensive leader, topping the 2025 tackle chart and earning MEAC Preseason Defensive Player of the Year honors.
Berry believes that the personal connections cultivated within the locker room will continue to give the Bulldogs a competitive edge in a sport where transactions often overshadow tradition.