The Eagles finished third in the MEAC last season, good for many teams, but not by NCCU standards.
NCCU finished 8-4 last season, the first time the Eagles failed to finish first or second in the conference since before the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Eagles were predicted to finish second this season, according to media polling, but the team is working hard to set its sights higher.
"We don't worry about the preseason rankings," said head coach Trei Oliver. "I think pressure's on those who are not prepared, so we don't feel pressure or anything like that."
Oliver said the focus is on getting better every day throughout camp and working to get better every week during the season.
Winning a conference title is always the goal, quarterback Josh Jones said.
"We know where we need to get better at, where we need to work at, and we're looking to get that this year," Jones said.
The Eagles kick off the season at Texas Southern on Aug. 29.
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