The FAMU Rattler Football will be front and center on the national stage as the subject of an eight episode ESPN+ docuseries Why Not Us: FAMU Football.
Why Not Us: FAMU Football will take fans behind-the-scenes of one of the most storied athletic teams in college football, as the Rattlers experience their first season in the Southwestern Athletic Conference. The first episode will premiere Thursday, October 14.
The acclaimed Why Not Us series from The Undefeated on ESPN+ is executive produced by NBA All-Star Chris Paul.
Like last year’s first season of Why Not Us, which followed the North Carolina Central men’s basketball team, Why Not Us: FAMU Football will examine the distinct culture, experiences and challenges of an HBCU athletic program, exploring what makes FAMU special on and off the field.
The FAMU football program is led by head coach Willie Simmons, who grew up in a mostly segregated town 20 minutes from the FAMU campus. Simmons took over the Rattlers in 2017 following academic violations, sub-par recruiting and budget shortfalls that threatened to shut down the program. In just a few years, Simmons has reshaped FAMU Football in his image, with the values befitting FAMU’s reputation of rich culture and tradition that include its incomparable Marching Band 100, legendary homecoming celebrations and a star-studded list of alumni.
The Why Not Us series highlights the ethos of being a student and student-athlete at an HBCU.
“The second season of Why Not Us will continue to highlight the importance of HBCUs including their challenges and triumphs,” said Paul. “The achievements of athletes at HBCUs do not receive the level of recognition that they deserve. Why Not Us will chronicle the FAMU football team and shine a spotlight on these extraordinary athletes while inspiring audiences with their incredible journey of resilience in the face of adversity.”
"We're excited about the debut of the ESPN docuseries on us" said head coach Willie Simmons. "Those of us who have either worked, attended, or played here know how special this place is, and we're elated that the masses will finally get a chance to experience life on the Highest of Seven Hills."