Damien Fleming is the new starting quarterback for the Rattler football team.Head Coach Joe Taylor announced the change following Fleming’s strong performance in Saturday’s Atlanta Classic against Southern University. Taylor decided to hand the ball Fleming during the second half of that game after starter Austin Trainor struggled, completing only 12 of 22 pass attempts and chalking up two interceptions.
Fleming finished the game with six passes in eight attempts for 76 yards. He and receiver Lavante Page teamed up for three consecutive touchdowns that took the Orange & Green from a 33-17 deficit to a 38-33 victory.
Taylor applauded Fleming for doing exactly what was needed to turn the game around.
“I felt like we needed some energy,” Taylor said. “We needed a shot in the arm. As well as Fleming's throwing being accurate, he can buy some time with his mobility. And when he's scrambling, he's not scrambling to run. He's still looking down field. He was able to get out and buy time and make some good "move the chains" type of plays.”
Fleming, a 6’3 Jacksonville native, played for Ribault High School. During this weekend’s matchup against Delaware State, he will become the first true freshman to start as quarterback for the Rattlers since 1988.