THE HILL | The Alabama A&M University football team completed its fifth practice of fall camp Tuesday at Louis Crews Stadium as the Bulldogs continued installing their offensive and defensive systems ahead of the 2026 season.
 
AAMU head coach Sam Shade said the opening five practices have allowed the coaching staff to evaluate the roster while emphasizing fundamentals, execution and consistent effort.
 
"I thought we had good energy today," Shade said. "The guys are continuing to learn how we want to practice and the level of intensity we expect every time we step on the field. We still have some things to clean up, but I like the direction we are heading."
 
With several newcomers competing alongside an experienced group of returners, the first week of camp has focused on building chemistry and establishing depth throughout the roster.
 
"We have a lot of competition at different positions, and that is what you want during fall camp," Shade said. "Nobody can afford to become comfortable. Every repetition matters, and our players have to show they can execute consistently and do their jobs when they are tired."
 
Shade has also challenged the Bulldogs to improve their attention to detail as the team progresses toward more competitive portions of camp.
 
"The biggest thing is eliminating the mental mistakes," Shade said. "Effort is something we can control, but we also have to communicate, understand our assignments and play disciplined football. Those are the habits that will help us become the team we want to be."
 
As the Bulldogs move deeper into camp, practices will continue to feature situational work and increased competition as the coaching staff evaluates personnel on both sides of the ball and special teams.
 
"We are taking it one day at a time," Shade said. "We want to come out, correct the mistakes from the previous practice and get better. If we continue stacking good days together, we will put ourselves in a good position when the season arrives."
 
Alabama A&M will continue fall camp this week at Louis Crews Stadium and will have its first day of full pads on Wednesday. The Bulldogs conclude the week with their first scrimmage.
 
Fall Schedule
The Bulldogs open the 2026 season on the national stage with the 2026 Cricket Wireless MEAC/SWAC Challenge against Howard at Center Parc Stadium in Atlanta, Ga. on Saturday, Aug. 29. The first home game is a week later (Sept. 5) as Alabama A&M plays host to Miles College in the 16^th Annual Louis Crews Classic. 
 
Classic Games
Alabama A&M will play in five signature games this season, starting with the MEAC/SWAC Challenge on Aug. 29 against Howard. A week later, the Maroon & White will play host to Miles College in the 16^th Annual Louis Crews Classic. The Bulldogs will look to make it two straight in The Legacy Series when AAMU host Tennessee State on Sept. 12. Alabama A&M faces Jackson State in the Gulf Coast Challenge on Oct. 3 at Ladd-Peebles Stadium in Mobile, Ala. and conclude the classic games with the 84th Annual Magic City Classic on Oct. 31 at Legion Field in Birmingham, Ala.
 
Ticket Information
Season tickets and single-game tickets for the 2026 season are on sale now. Purchase your tickets today to guarantee your seat for the upcoming season. To purchase tickets, visit aamusports.com or call the ticket office at: 256.372.7255 or 256.372.7254.  
 
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