The FAMU football team is gearing up to challenge Alabama State University during their homecoming festivities this weekend. The Rattlers, with a 2-2 record, are set to open their Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) schedule against the Hornets, who also have a 2-2 record and are currently 1-0 in the SWAC. The game will take place on Saturday at 3 p.m. Eastern Time and will be broadcasted on ESPN Plus.
FAMU quarterback Daniel Richardson expressed his team's determination to upset Alabama State, stating, "We take it personally. For [Alabama State] to schedule us on homecoming ― that’s crazy. We look to go there and come back with the upset." This sentiment reflects the traditional view that homecoming games are often scheduled against opponents that are considered beatable.
Alabama State head coach Eddie Robinson Jr. acknowledged the significance of the matchup and the respect he has for FAMU, stating, "It’s just the way the calendar falls. It’ll be very entertaining. It’s a good matchup. We know [FAMU is] going to bring a good crowd up here and bring the band. It’s just going to be a great HBCU weekend."
The Rattlers have a history of success under former head coach Willie Simmons, winning 45 of their 58 games from 2018 through 2023 and clinching the SWAC and Black College Football National Championships last December. This will be FAMU's first visit to Montgomery since their 21-14 victory over Alabama State in 2022.