STRIKE BACK

It has been a hectic start to football season for the Florida A&M Rattlers. Coming off an inspired performance in Chapel Hill, against a currently undefeated Power Five program, ‘FAMULY’ hopes and expectations were sky-high for the opening of SWAC conference play. An ill-fated trip to Hardrock Stadium quickly ended the illusion of an easy road to an undefeated season.

Following the Orange Blossom Classic, Coach Willie Simmons has addressed the need for his team to regain their confidence coming off two losses, and their focus in the wake of the ongoing administration drama. Coach Simmons also acknowledged that their next home game would be their best opportunity to recover their season.

HOME SWEET HOME

The Rattlers are on an 11-game home win streak, dating back to 2019. At the time that this piece was written, FAMU currently hold the fourth longest home game win streak in the nation. This game also happened to be the first game that starting quarterback Jeremy Moussa has played in FAMU’s freshly renovated Bragg Memorial Stadium.

STILL PERFECT

Albany State has seen success against the Rattlers, defeating them in their last two contests. This streak came to a bitter end on the heels of a game-sealing performance by the ‘Dark Clouds Defense’ of FAMU. Rattlers dominated the Golden Rams’ offense, holding their visitors to 13 total points and 299 total yards. Redshirt sophomore Gentle Hunt led the attack on the ground, racking up five solo tackles for himself. Meanwhile, Timothy Williams Jr., and Kamari Stephens contributed to a no-fly zone above the ASU end zone, each securing their first career interceptions.

On the offensive side, Xavier Smith showed out. Leading the team with 189 all-purpose yards, including 118 yards in receptions, and 49 yards rushing, and a touchdown. Redshirt freshman De’Andre Francis of Miami Rickards HS also scored his first points for the Rattlers. Lastly, but certainly not least, credit to Rattlers kicker Jose Romo-Martinez on scoring FAMU’s only points of the third quarter, contributing heavily to the 23-13 win.

FAMU has a bye this week before returning to Bragg Stadium on September 24, vs. Alabama A&M.