Michael Smith kicks field goal at practice

FAMU Athletics / Jordan Fitzpatrick

Rattlers focus on special teams in second scrimmage

8/10/2024 2:22:00 PM

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. –– In the lead-up to the 2024 season, Florida A&M's football team held its second scrimmage of fall camp, with the spotlight firmly on special teams.

Head Coach James Colzie III, who recapped the scrimmage, emphasized the significance of this focused practice and the strides made by the Rattlers.

"This scrimmage was all about special teams," Colzie began, outlining a day dedicated to punting, kickoff, field goals, and other critical game elements. With 29 special teams scenarios covered, the team aimed to ensure every detail was noticed. The Rattlers were tested from punts inside the 10-yard line to field goal attempts in high-pressure situations.

Colzie was particularly impressed with the performance of key players like Trey Wilhoit, whom he described as "one of the best in the country," and kicker Cameron Gillis, who was flawless in his field goal attempts. "It was a much better showing compared to last week," Colzie noted, signaling these units' progress as the season approaches.

When questioned about what led to this improvement, Colzie credited the intensified pressure situations set by the coaching staff. "We worked on putting them in high-stress scenarios, like our hurricane drill, where timing is everything," he explained. This drill simulates the urgency of kicking a field goal as the clock winds down, pushing the players to execute under pressure. "Gillis and Michael Smith stepped up, and I'm excited about what they did today."

The scrimmage wasn't only about special teams. Colzie discussed how the team also worked on offensive and defensive situations between special teams breaks. "We focused on situations like coming out from the minus 4-yard line, where our goal is to get at least two first downs," he explained. The first-team offense achieved this goal, while the second team struggled, going 0-for-2 in their attempts. Red zone efficiency was also tested, with mixed results, as the second team found success while the first team fell short.

Colzie was encouraged by the overall execution, noting that the team looked "very crisp" across all phases of the scrimmage. He highlighted the importance of special teams in flipping field position and changing the momentum of games, pointing to the significant impact these plays can have. "Being able to block a punt or hit a field goal from 35 to 45 yards can be game-changers," Colzie emphasized.

As the Rattlers approach their final full week of training camp, Colzie is optimistic about the team's growth, particularly in their football IQ, which has been a point of emphasis in practice. "The improvement we've seen is a testament to the hard work of our coaches and players, and we're seeing it pay off on the field," he concluded.

With the season opener looming, FAMU's focus on special teams could be a decisive factor in their success, and Colzie's confidence in his squad is evident. The Rattlers are sharpening all facets of their game, aiming to start the season strong.

The Rattlers are two weeks from the season-opener in the MEAC/SWAC Challenge versus Norfolk State in Atlanta, Georgia. Purchase tickets to the game here.

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