The FAMU Rattlers football team secured a thrilling 28-20 victory over Alabama A&M before a crowd of 10,887 fans at Bragg Memorial Stadium on Friday, ending their season on a high note with a 7-5 record.
The Rattlers started the game with a bang, scoring on their opening drive when Thad Franklin Jr. broke free for a 25-yard touchdown run just 32 seconds into the game. Alabama A&M responded with a field goal, but FAMU quickly extended their lead with a 6-yard touchdown pass from Daniel Richardson to Koby Gross, capping a methodical 10-play, 76-yard drive.
Richardson had an efficient day, completing 19 of 26 passes for 193 yards and two touchdowns. The ground game was equally effective, with FAMU rushing for 232 yards on 33 carries, averaging 7.0 yards per carry. Kelvin Dean Jr. led the rushing attack with 74 yards, while Levontai Summersett added 74 yards and a touchdown on eight carries, including a 20-yard scoring run in the second quarter that put the Rattlers up 21-6.
The FAMU defense played a crucial role in the victory, recording three sacks and forcing two interceptions. Deco Wilson led the unit with ten tackles, while Allen Smith Jr. and Davion Westmoreland each recorded sacks.
FAMU’s final touchdown came in the third quarter on a 19-yard pass from Richardson to Quan Lee, who finished with a team-high 68 receiving yards. Despite Alabama A&M’s fourth-quarter comeback, scoring two touchdowns to narrow the gap, FAMU’s defense held firm in the closing minutes to preserve the win.
This victory marks a successful end to FAMU’s season, showcasing their resilience and ability to perform under pressure. The Rattlers can now look forward to the offseason with optimism, building on the momentum of their strong finish.
The Rattlers aren’t accustomed to being two games over .500, as they have recorded nine or more wins in the last four seasons. FAMU tied for second place in the SWAC East, with Alabama State behind division champions Jackson State.
This season’s performance, while not reaching the heights of previous years, demonstrates the team’s potential and sets a solid foundation for future success.