Last season, Alcorn State got off to a strong start to the season, with a 50-21 victory over Miles College on Hall of Fame Weekend. The Braves were trying to improve upon their 2016 season, where they finished 5-6.
The Braves dropped their next two, including a close 17-10 loss to FBS team FIU. Starting conference play, they were able to get some momentum going, winning their next four straight before being halted by SWAC champions Grambling State, 41-14.
Alcorn State took two of the next three to make it to the SWAC Championship Game with a record of 7-4.