HBCUs got a rare crack at primetime, national television coverage on Aug. 28, and North Carolina Central University wasn’t blinded by the lights.

Playing in front of ESPN cameras in Atlanta, the Eagles defeated Alcorn State University of Mississippi 23-14, in the Cricket MEAC/SWAC Challenge before a live audience of 15,215 fans.

Davius Richard passed for 184 yards and ran for two touchdowns for North Carolina Central.

The Celebration Bowl, with a similar format matching MEAC and SWAC schools, is set for Dec. 18, also in Atlanta.