Friday, Nov. 14 at Mississippi Valley State | 7 PM EST | SWAC TV
Sunday, Nov. 16 at Jackson State | 1 PM EST | SWAC TV

ITTA BENA, Miss./JACKSON, Miss. -- After showing flashes of dominance in the front row and steady improvement in conference play, Florida A&M is heading into a critical weekend swing against Jackson State and Mississippi Valley State. The Rattlers are looking to climb the SWAC standings and reassert themselves as one of the most dangerous defensive teams in the conference.

FAMU: Strength at the Net and Poised for a Breakthrough

Led by Farah Farooq, who ranks 1st in the SWAC and 31st nationally in hitting percentage (.394), the Rattlers have established a strong identity around efficient front-row play. Farooq also ranks 2nd in the SWAC in blocks per set (1.02), giving FAMU one of the most balanced middle presences in the conference.

Statistically, the Rattlers are 2nd in the SWAC in total blocks (216) and 2nd in opponent hitting percentage (.174), both elite defensive marks that give them an edge in grind-it-out sets. While their overall hitting percentage (.183) sits mid-pack, their net play keeps them competitive against high-powered offenses.

FAMU's improvement in consistency—especially in assists (10.05 per set)—suggests a team finding rhythm in the back half of the season. If the Rattlers can convert more of their digs and second touches into clean swings, their ceiling remains high heading into the postseason race.

Scouting Jackson State: A Defensive Powerhouse with Offensive Spark

Jackson State sits near the top of the SWAC defensive rankings, leading the conference in opponent hitting percentage (.171) and ranking 2nd in kills per set (12.33). The Tigers are powered by Jayden James, the SWAC leader in both kills per set (3.99) and points per set (4.58)—a dynamic six-rotation scorer who can change a set on her own.

However, Jackson State's offensive rhythm has occasionally stalled (11.34 assists per set, 3rd in SWAC), leaving openings for teams with strong blocking units—exactly where FAMU thrives. If the Rattlers can contain James early and win the blocking battle, they'll be positioned to pull off a statement win on the road.

Scouting Mississippi Valley State: Young Team Searching for Answers

Mississippi Valley State continues to rebuild, ranking last in the SWAC in nearly every major category—including kills per set (9.01), hitting percentage (.094), and opponent hitting percentage (.246). While effort and energy remain constant, Valley has struggled to sustain offensive momentum or produce consistent point runs.

This matchup gives FAMU a prime opportunity to fine-tune its offense and extend rallies. The Rattlers' front line should dominate, especially if Farooq and company can establish an early rhythm on quick sets and middle attacks.
Keys to Victory for FAMU

1. Feed Farooq Early and Often: Her .394 hitting efficiency demands more touches—especially against JSU's tall blockers.
2. Control Serve-Receive: Reducing errors and extending rallies will neutralize Jackson State's serve pressure.
3. Stay Disciplined at the Net: Against Mississippi Valley, FAMU can dictate pace and tempo by winning first-ball contact.

Bottom Line

Florida A&M enters the weekend with the tools and defensive strength to make noise in the SWAC standings. With a top-tier blocker in Farooq and a steadily improving offense, the Rattlers are positioned to push Jackson State to the brink and dominate Mississippi Valley State.

If FAMU maintains its composure and converts its defensive stops into offensive runs, this could be the weekend the Rattlers turn potential into momentum.