In a nail-biting finish, the FAMU Rattlers snapped their two-game losing streak with a stunning win over in-state rivals, the Bethune-Cookman Wildcats, with a score of 41-38 before a roaring crowd of 56,453 at Camping World Stadium on Saturday. The matchup marked the highest attendance for the Florida Classic in a decade and solidified FAMU's dominance, marking their fourth consecutive victory over the Wildcats.
The Rattlers, improved 6-5 overall and 4-3 in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), showcased a potent offensive performance, out gaining Bethune-Cookman 487 yards to 416.
After trailing 21-17 at halftime, FAMU mounted a fierce comeback, capitalizing on crucial plays to secure the win.
Running back Thad Franklin Jr. delivered a standout performance, earning the Florida Classic’s Most Valuable Player Award. Franklin rushed for 195 yards on 26 carries and scored three touchdowns, including a pivotal 70-yard touchdown run early in the fourth quarter that shifted the momentum in favor of the Rattlers.
Adding to the ground game’s success, Kelvin Dean contributed significantly with 103 yards and a touchdown, helping FAMU amass a total of 305 rushing yards on 47 attempts.
FAMU quarterback Daniel Richardson efficiently managed the game, completing 15 of 21 passes for 182 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. His connection with wide receiver Quan Lee was particularly effective, as Lee recorded five receptions for 81 yards and a touchdown.
Despite a strong offensive showing, FAMU's special teams struggled, putting the team in challenging positions throughout the game. The Wildcats gained 123 yards on kickoffs over five returns, highlighting an area for potential improvement as the season draws to a close.
Bethune-Cookman, concluded their season with a record of 2-10 and 2-6 in SWAC play, fought hard until the end, scoring a late touchdown to narrow the gap but ultimately fell short in their comeback efforts.
Looking ahead, FAMU will close out their season against Alabama A&M on Friday at 4 p.m in Bragg Memorial Stadium in Tallahassee, aiming to build on this hard-fought victory and finish strong.