MONTGOMERY, Ala. | A tradition that dates back to November 15, 1924 returns to ASU Stadium Thursday afternoon, marking the end of the 2018 season.
It's a tradition that starts early in the week with festivities in, and around, the Alabama State campus before the annual Thanksgiving parade through downtown Montgomery signifies that it is game day. It's a time for family and friends to return to campus, it's a time to look back and a time to celebrate.
It's the 95th annual Turkey Day Classic.
The 2018 season comes to a close Thursday afternoon as Alabama State hosts Mississippi Valley State inside ASU Stadium for the annual event. Only three teams have ever won a game in the Turkey Day Classic, and Thursday's game has two of those teams battling in the season finale.
Alabama State (3-7, 2-4 SWAC) and Mississippi Valley State (1-9, 1-5 SWAC) have met just one other time in the Turkey Day Classic. The two teams met November 28, 1971 and the Delta Devils were able to come out on top 10-7 in the midst of an eight-game losing streak in the game for the Hornets. The only other team to have won a game in the Turkey Day Classic, Tuskegee, last played in the game in 2012.
The Hornets have won 41 times in the contest, including winning the last five. They have also won six of the last seven contests in the annual classic dating back to 2011. Since 2008, the Hornets have won seven of the last 10 Turkey Day Classics, with the last six being played inside ASU Stadium. Alabama State and Mississippi Valley State have met 42 times before, with the Hornets leading the all-time series 27-14 with one tie. The current streak in the series belongs to Alabama State, who has won eight consecutive games with the last Mississippi Valley State victory coming in 2009.
The game has long been associated with Senior Day, and the Hornets will bid farewell to the Class of 2018 prior to the game. This year's class includes the likes of
Alex Anderson (running back),
Ishmael Aurismond (defensive line),
Devin Santana (defensive line),
Ricky Haley (defensive line),
Malik Bridgers (linebacker),
Kurron Ramsey (defensive back),
Davian Brantley (defensive back),
Dennis Roberts IV (linebacker),
Bryce Coley (linebacker),
Tytus Howard (offensive line),
Joe Williams IV (receiver) and
Dylan Renaker (long snapper).
The day gets started with the Turkey Day Classic parade at 9 am in downtown Montgomery, before the Hornet Walk begins at 11:50 am through the tailgate area leading into the stadium. Kick is set for 2 pm, with pregame festivities beginning at 1:30 with Senior Day.
The game can be heard on the Hornet Sports Network beginning with the pregame show at 1:30 pm.
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