The Florida A&M Rattlers continue to dominate the HBCU football landscape, maintaining their No. 1 ranking in the Week 6 BOXTOROW HBCU Media Poll. With a 3-2 record, the Rattlers received 13 first place votes and 193 points overall, solidifying their position at the top of the rankings.

Hot on their heels, the North Carolina Central Eagles (4-2) held steady at No. 2 with seven first place votes and 187 points. The Jackson State Tigers (4-2) round out the top three, climbing one spot from last week’s rankings.

This week’s poll saw some significant movement, with Tennessee State (4-2) making a leap to No. 4.

The surprise of the season continues to be Johnson C. Smith, as the Golden Bulls (6-0) crack the top five for the first time this year.

Hampton (3-3) and South Carolina State (3-2) hold the sixth and seventh spots respectively, while Grambling (3-2) sits at No. 8. Morgan State (3-3) and Alabama State (2-3) are tied for the ninth position, both entering the top 10 this week.

Several teams just missed the cut but received votes, including Virginia Union and Alcorn State, both garnering 13 points. Winston-Salem State, West Virginia State, and Howard also are knocking on the door of the top 10.

The HBCU Media Poll, now in its 18th year, is voted on by media members nationwide who cover HBCU football and provides a weekly snapshot of the most competitive teams in Black college football.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Florida A&M to see if they can maintain their grip on the top spot, while hungry challengers such as North Carolina Central and Jackson State look to dethrone the Rattlers.