FAMU Athletics / Shweta Mistry

Florida A&M Looks to Extend SWAC Dominance in Showdown with Jackson State

10/18/2024 5:41:00 PM

JACKSON, Miss. –– The stage is set for one of the most anticipated games in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) as the Florida A&M Rattlers head to Jackson, Mississippi, to face the Jackson State Tigers. Both teams are ranked in the top 25, with the Rattlers holding the No. 18 spot and Jackson State sitting at No. 25. Florida A&M enters the game on a remarkable 17-game winning streak against SWAC opponents and aims to continue their run of dominance in what many are calling a pivotal contest in determining the fate of the SWAC East Division.

Coming off a bye week, Florida A&M head coach James Colzie has emphasized the importance of staying focused on execution. "We're about as healthy as we've been all season," Colzie noted, highlighting that his team has used the extra time to fine tune their game plan. "Obviously, the winner of this football game puts themselves in a really good position when it comes to the SWAC East title."

While some may view this game as the de facto SWAC championship, Colzie stressed that there's still a lot of football left to play this season. "We've got to focus on ourselves, execute, and play our best football. The road to the Celebration Bowl starts with winning the SWAC East, but you can't overlook any opponent," he said.

Saturday's game presents a critical opportunity for the Rattlers, who have already beaten Alabama State on the road this season. A win against Jackson State would give them a one-game lead in the standings and the all-important head-to-head tiebreaker. "Beating both Alabama State and Jackson State on the road puts us in a great spot. That head-to-head battle is crucial," said Colzie.

FAMU's defense will play a key role in Saturday's game. Coach Colzie has been impressed with his unit's growth, stating, "Our discipline continues to improve. Defensively, we've got to stop the run and put them in tough situations on second and third downs. That will allow us to apply pressure and make plays."

Special teams will also be a significant factor, as Colzie acknowledged the impact that Jackson State's return game could have on field position. "They've got a dangerous returner, but we're confident in our ability to cover kicks and punts. It's all about staying disciplined in our lanes and making tackles when we have the chance."

Ultimately, the outcome may come down to two key areas: turnovers and rushing yards. "If we win the turnover battle and rush for more yards than they do, I think we put ourselves in a really good position to win the game," Colzie said. "Every play is going to count, and in a game like this, every yard will matter."

The Rattlers are fully aware of the stakes. Playing in front of a large crowd at Jackson State's Veterans Memorial Stadium adds to the intensity of the contest, but Colzie remains focused on his team's preparation. "Good teams go on the road and win. We're looking forward to showing what kind of team we are when the dust settles Saturday afternoon."

With national TV coverage on ESPNU, the spotlight will shine as Florida A&M aims to continue its SWAC dominance and take a significant step toward its ultimate goal: a trip to the Celebration Bowl.

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