TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida A&M looks to strike back in SWAC play when the Rattlers face Alcorn State, leaning on disciplined football, field-position wins and a turnover-averse offense. Here are the Friday Fast 5 keys for FAMU to seize control and send the Braves home rattled.

1.     Build the wall vs. Sewell.
Alcorn's identity is the ground game with Jacorian Sewell (SWAC leader, 104.7 rush ypg; 7.85 per carry). FAMU must set edges, spill the ball to help and win first down to force third-and-long where Alcorn is less comfortable (10th in SWAC passing yards per game). Early run fits and sure tackling are the tone-setter.

2.     Win third down on offense.
The Rattlers convert 40.6% on third down (No. 5 SWAC); Alcorn's third-down defense is stingy (38.7%, No. 3 SWAC). Stay on schedule with efficient early-down throws and downhill runs by Thad Franklin Jr. to keep third downs short and convertible.

3.     Keep the turnover edge.
FAMU is elite at protecting the ball (tied for fewest turnovers in SWAC; zero fumbles lost). Alcorn sits at –1.00 in turnover margin. Attack the ball with Corey Collier Jr. (league leader in forced fumbles) and let Ah'mare Lee (SWAC leader, 1.25 passes defended per game) contest throws. A plus-one day likely swings the game.

4.     Flip the field and choke off returns.
Lean on Bobby Engstler (No. 1 SWAC, 43.7 punting) to pin the Braves and make them drive long fields. Cover kicks with discipline—Alcorn owns the league's best kickoff return defense and a dangerous punt returner (Ja'Coby Matthews, SWAC-best 9.0 per return). Directional punts and high hang time neutralize hidden yards.

5.     Own the details: penalties and red zone.
FAMU is the SWAC's least-penalized team (32 flags), while Alcorn ranks last in penalties and penalty yards. Turn freebies into first downs. In the red area, finish drives—FAMU at 76.9% scores vs. Alcorn's 90.0% red-zone defense—by mixing play-action to tight ends and Franklin's power runs. Touchdowns, not field goals.