# HBCU football rankings developments

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/hbcu-football-rankings-developments
> Updated: 2026-10-02T02:45:30.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

HBCU football rankings have seen significant movement in recent weeks. In Division I, South Carolina State holds top positions following an undefeated 5-0 start. 

In Division II, Kentucky State has ascended to the No. 1 spot in the HBCU Black College Football Poll. This rise follows a 24-16 road victory over Albany State, which ended a 12-game losing streak against the Golden Rams. The win allowed Kentucky State to overtake Benedict, which dropped to No. 5 in the rankings.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-02: Kentucky State football reaches No. 1 in HBCU Division II poll

Kentucky State football has risen to No. 1 in the HBCU Division II Coaches Poll following a 24-16 victory over Albany State, improving their season record to 4-1.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/kentucky-state-football-reaches-no-1-in-hbcu-division-ii-poll

### 2026-09-26: HBCU Football: South Carolina State and Kentucky State lead rankings

South Carolina State and Kentucky State lead Division I and Division II HBCU football rankings respectively as Week 5 approaches, following notable upsets and undefeated starts.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hbcu-football-south-carolina-state-and-kentucky-state-lead-rankings

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Cite as: HBCU football rankings developments. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/hbcu-football-rankings-developments