Jackson State’s legendary new head coach, Deion Sanders, is very passionate about making HBCU’s “Primetime”.
The former NFL great recently discussed the uneven playing field that HBCU’s encounter in collegiate football during the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) media day on Wednesday.
SWAC MEDIA DAYS: "It's not a level playing field, it's unacceptable" – Deion Sanders talked about levelling the playing field for HBCU athletes. pic.twitter.com/8sqbIKnkqo
— Noah Newman (@NoahNewmanWJTV) January 13, 2021
“The playing field is horrible,” Sanders said. “It’s not a level playing field. It’s unacceptable. Thank God that God called me to change the game, to open their eyes, to open the door. Not just for Jackson State, but for everybody.”
Sanders attended Florida State University, where he was recognized as a two-time All-American in football, and also played baseball and ran track.
Appreciate Deion Sanders @21standprime allowing me to speak to his team and staff at Jackson State! pic.twitter.com/lquCPWCL0r
— Houston Nutt (@CBSCoachNutt) January 14, 2021
“Some of the things that I’ve seen thus far early in my tenure are truly unacceptable,” Sanders said. “It causes a kid not to dream. It causes a kid to not have that passion because he don’t see no end result that’s promising for him.
“I’m doing this for these babies, man. They deserve it. The look in their eyes when they get a whole new sweatsuit just to wear back to the darn dorm. Shoes and looking the same when they get the helmets and the uniforms and all that stuff play a tremendous role.”
.@DeionSanders is getting his boys in shape at @JacksonStateU. pic.twitter.com/D3Q7vUUc6d
— Viva La Stool (@VivaLaStool) January 12, 2021
Taking a proactive approach, Sanders’ influence has attracted some big-money donations, an apparel deal with Under Armour and meetings with Golden Corral for a place for his players to eat off campus.
“You know my quote. If you look good, you feel good. That’s the durn truth.”
The Tigers’ first game of the spring season against Edward Waters on Feb. 21.
