Grambling State looks to become first repeat Celebration Bowl champ

Coach Broderick Fobbs of the Grambling State Tigers. (Photo by Jennifer Stewart/Getty Images)

Coach Broderick Fobbs of the Grambling State Tigers. (Photo by Jennifer Stewart/Getty Images)

The 2016 Celebration Bowl winner will face its predecessor.

SWAC champion Grambling State, which won last year’s game 10-9 over North Carolina Central, takes on undefeated North Carolina A&T at noon Dec. 16 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Both teams are making their second appearance in the bowl’s three-year history; both teams have 11 wins, though the Tigers lost to Tulane while the Aggies are going for the first perfect season in MEAC history.

“This is the place we want to be,” coach Broderick Fobbs said. “This is where every school in our conference wants to end up. … I really admire coach (Rod) Broadway and what he’s been able to accomplish over the years. He’s one of the pillars of black college football. It’ll definitely be a pleasure to compete against him.”

The Tigers’ 45 sacks rank best in FCS, while their 97 tackles for loss are second-most.