The Wildcats compete in the Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).

Starting with the fall 2021 season, they compete in the East Division of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), after having been members of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) since 1979.

The Wildcats have won two black college football national championships.

The Wildcats appeared in the Division II playoffs one time, with an overall record of 0–1.

The Buck Buchanan Award is given to the most outstanding defensive player in Division I FCS.