Date/Time: Saturday, October 11 – 3:00 p.m.
Location: Ken Riley Field at Bragg Memorial Stadium
Broadcast: HBCU GO | 96.1 JAMZ
Game Theme: PINK OUT

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Florida A&M enters its non-conference matchup against North Carolina Central looking to remind the FCS world why the Rattlers are one of the most disciplined and dangerous programs in the SWAC and FCS.

While the Eagles boast the top-ranked offense in the MEAC, FAMU's control-oriented style — anchored by ball security, defensive consistency, and elite special teams — could be the difference-maker in a battle of contrasting philosophies.

Rattlers' Efficiency Sets the Tone

Few teams in the FCS protect the football as well as Florida A&M. The Rattlers are ranked No. 1 nationally in both fewest fumbles lost (0) and fewest turnovers (1) through the season's opening stretch.

• Turnover Margin: +0.50 (26th nationally, 2nd in SWAC)
• Fumbles Lost: 0 (1st nationally)
• Turnovers Lost: 1 (1st nationally)
• Interceptions Thrown: 1 (Top 5 nationally)

That precision has allowed the Rattlers to stay competitive even when their offensive yardage totals haven't matched their potential. In a matchup where field position and possession time will be crucial, FAMU's ability to play clean football could prove decisive.
Clock Control and Composure

FAMU's offense emphasizes sustainability and rhythm. The Rattlers lead the SWAC and rank 17th nationally in time of possession (32:32), a mark that reflects both their veteran offensive line and their run-first balance behind Thad Franklin Jr.

• Time of Possession: 32:32 (1st SWAC, 17th nationally)
• 3rd Down Conversions: 42.1% (3rd SWAC, 37th nationally)
• Fewest Penalties: 30 (2nd SWAC, 38th nationally)
• Fewest Penalty Yards: 283 (3rd SWAC, 53rd nationally)

By staying on schedule and avoiding drive-killing mistakes, the Rattlers force opponents into uncomfortable, low-possession games — the exact formula that could frustrate North Carolina Central's fast-paced offense.

Defensive Identity: Quietly Stout

Though FAMU's defense doesn't lead the nation in headline stats, it remains one of the more fundamentally sound units in the SWAC. The Rattlers rank:

• 4th in SWAC Total Defense (368.5 yards/game)
• 4th in Rushing Defense (165.5 yards/game)
• 3rd in First Downs Allowed (88)
• 5th in Passing Yards Allowed (203.0 per game)

Led by defensive back Corey Collier Jr., who ranks 2nd nationally in forced fumbles (0.67 per game), and corner Ah'mare Lee, who sits among conference leaders in passes defended, the FAMU secondary has limited big plays despite facing high-volume passing attacks.
While the Rattlers' third-down defense (48.1%) can improve, their ability to generate timely turnovers and win situational downs has helped offset yardage totals.

Special Teams: A Hidden Advantage

FAMU's special teams have consistently been among the best in the SWAC, and this season is no exception.

• Punter Bobby Engstler: 13th nationally, 1st in SWAC (44.4 yards per punt)
• Kicker Daniel Porto: 16th nationally in FG% (83.3%), 2nd in SWAC
• Return Specialist Kenari Wilcher: Top 50 nationally in All-Purpose Yards (101.75 ypg), 5th in SWAC Kick Return Avg (20.0)

Engstler's punting and Porto's consistency ensure that FAMU rarely loses field position battles, while Wilcher provides explosive upside in the return game. Against a high-scoring NCCU squad, those extra yards could translate directly into scoring opportunities.

The Challenge: Containing NCCU's Firepower

North Carolina Central counters with one of the most explosive offenses in the FCS, led by quarterback Walker Harris, who ranks 5th nationally with 1,514 passing yards and 13th in passing yards per game (252.3). The Eagles average 34.7 points per game, more than double FAMU's current output.

However, FAMU's disciplined defensive front and ball-control approach could neutralize NCCU's tempo. The Rattlers' top-ranked SWAC time of possession and low turnover rate are built to frustrate teams that thrive on rhythm.

Keys to Victory for FAMU

• Control the Clock: Continue leading the SWAC in time of possession to limit NCCU's offensive drives.
• Win the Turnover Battle: FAMU has forced 3 turnovers all season but lost only one; maintaining that margin is crucial.
• Special Teams Execution: Use Engstler's punting and Wilcher's returns to win field position.
• Eliminate Penalties: The Rattlers' discipline (top-3 in SWAC in fewest flags) must continue to avoid extending Eagle drives.

Outlook

Florida A&M may not boast gaudy offensive numbers, but their brand of football is built for control, patience, and precision — qualities that win big games in November.

If the Rattlers can dictate tempo and capitalize on special teams, they have every reason to believe they can outlast a high-powered North Carolina Central squad and reaffirm their reputation as one of the nation's most complete FCS programs.