Florida A&M Rattlers Excited for Homecoming Against Texas Southern

11/1/2024 8:52:00 PM

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. –– The Rattlers are set to make a triumphant return to Bragg Memorial Stadium this Saturday for their homecoming game against the Texas Southern Tigers. The Rattlers, fresh off a crucial win over Southern, enter the game with a 22-game home winning streak — the second-longest in the nation. Head Coach Colzie knows the stakes are high as the team looks to maintain its undefeated streak at home and continue its dominance over Texas Southern, a team they've beaten in their last four meetings.

At the weekly press conference, Coach Colzie addressed homecoming's unique challenges. "Obviously, homecoming is an important time here at Florida A&M. It's a point of pride for our team, the program, and the university," he said. However, he remains focused on keeping his players prepared amid the extra activities, acknowledging, "We can't have any slip-ups or anything that will negate our opportunity to continue to move up in the standings."

The Texas Southern Tigers bring a formidable challenge to Tallahassee, especially with an offense led by a flexible quarterback system. Coach Colzie noted that the Tigers present a well-balanced attack regardless of who starts under center and will push the Rattlers' defense. "They pose a problem with what they like to do formation-wise," he explained, pointing out that Texas Southern's offense is designed to keep defenses guessing and exploit mismatches downfield.

On defense, the Rattlers are coming off three consecutive games with forced turnovers, a promising development Coach Colzie is eager to see continue. He highlighted the improvement in execution on both sides of the ball as a factor, particularly in the defense's newfound chemistry and positioning. "I still feel we haven't played a complete game yet, and I think we'll be really scary once we do," Colzie said, setting high expectations for this homecoming showcase.

One key player to watch is special teams standout and receiver Jamari Gassett, who had a breakout performance last week. "He does special things with the football," praised Coach Colzie, emphasizing Gassett's impact on offense and in the return game. With opposing defenses focusing on containing him, the Rattlers plan to get Gassett the ball creatively to maximize his scoring potential.

The Rattlers know the Tigers will bring everything they've got, especially with Texas Southern Head Coach Dishman reportedly fired up about being chosen as the homecoming opponent. Coach Colzie responded with respect for his counterpart, acknowledging Texas Southern's recent success and the challenges it poses.

As the Rattlers take the field this Saturday, they'll be backed by an electrified homecoming crowd at Bragg, eager to see their team extend its winning streak.

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