New Orleans University's football program began in 1914. Earl U. Harrison, a student, organized the team. It was comprised of B. Lockley, T. Slaughter, A. Jordan, U. Short, A. McNeal, R. Moses, C. Williams, E. Harrison, J. Wilson, C. Wester, W. Chinn, D. Malarcher, P. Taylor, and D. Jordan. The Tigers' first game was October 13, 1914, against the Straight College Crimson Tide. NOU would emerge victorious 13 - 0

Like Straight, New Orleans University entered into the Black College Gridiron with tenacity and great competitive spirit. The New Orleans Black College Football circuit would realize the daunting task of seeking triumph over the Tigers.