Hampton University’s football season opener at Jackson State University revealed a promising new quarterback, Isaiah Freeman, who stepped into the spotlight during a challenging game. Although the Pirates suffered a 28-14 defeat, Freeman made an impressive debut, showcasing his skills with a 63-yard run on Hampton’s first drive, which set up the opening touchdown. He also completed a 30-yard touchdown pass to Marshawn Ferguson, accumulating a total of 73 rushing yards alongside his passing efforts.
Freeman’s transition from Lincoln University (Pa.), where he had established strong connections, was not without its struggles. He expressed his emotional ties to Lincoln, a Division II program, yet was eager to embrace the opportunity at Hampton, which is navigating its own phase of change. “Leaving Lincoln was very hard to do,” Freeman stated. “My heart was attached to it, a great place with a great group of people. But I wanted to see if I could play at a higher level.”
The chance to play at Hampton came with the promise of a supportive environment. Freeman connected with head coach Trenton Boykin, who is in his first full season leading the team. Freeman was drawn to the family-like atmosphere he perceived within the program. “What sold me was the family-like atmosphere and the all-inclusiveness. The goals they had really aligned with my morals. The guys were just good people. It was a win-win situation for me,” he said.
As the fall camp commenced, competition for the starting quarterback position heated up. Boykin provided all four quarterbacks on the roster with opportunities to earn the role. By the time the season opener arrived, the choices had narrowed to Freeman and Braden Davis, a transfer from Syracuse University. Ultimately, Freeman secured the starting position, though he remained grounded about the significance of the title.
“The starter title doesn’t mean too much for me,” Freeman remarked. “It’s more about my opportunity and what I do with it. It felt good just to be out there on the field with my team playing the game I love.” The competition between the two quarterbacks continues, as both received playing time during the game. Freeman played the first quarter, while Davis took over in the second.
Freeman welcomed the challenge of competition, highlighting the camaraderie within the quarterback room. “We’ve built a brotherhood in our quarterback room,” he said. “When I’m on the sideline, I’m cheering for him. When I’m in the game and he’s on the sideline, he’s cheering for me. It’s not about who’s in the game. It’s about making plays when you are.”
Coach Boykin expressed satisfaction with both quarterbacks’ performances, noting the challenges posed by the game environment. “They both managed the offense well,” he said. “Isaiah just runs the ball better, and when you have a quarterback that’s a threat to run, it’s 11 on 11.” Despite the initial success, Freeman recognizes the need for further development. He completed 10 of 17 passes for 117 yards, with one touchdown and one interception, and reflected on his performance. “I think I played OK. There’s a lot I left out there, but that’s life. You watch the film, correct it, and get better,” he said.
Looking ahead, Freeman’s aspirations for his time at Hampton are straightforward: consistency, hard work, and leadership. “I just want to be the best teammate and quarterback I can be,” he explained. “At the end of the day, I want to leave this place better than I found it.” As the Pirates continue their season, Freeman’s commitment to improvement and teamwork will be crucial in shaping the trajectory of Hampton University football.