PINE BLUFF, Ark. -- Florida A&M heads into this SWAC showdown looking to get back on track and assert its championship pedigree. The Rattlers have the talent, the discipline, and the experience — but they'll need to execute in key areas to put away a scrappy Arkansas–Pine Bluff team. Here are the five keys to victory for FAMU:

1. Win on 3rd Down — Stay on Schedule
FAMU's offense converts 40.5% of third downs (5th in the SWAC), while UAPB's defense allows opponents to move the chains nearly 43% of the time. The Rattlers must control the tempo and sustain drives behind RJ Johnson III, who ranks top-5 in the league in completion rate (63.6%). Keeping drives alive not only tires out UAPB's defense but also helps FAMU win the time-of-possession battle — already one of their quiet strengths (31:02 per game, 4th in the conference).

Key stat: FAMU 40.5% on 3rd down vs. UAPB's 42.9% allowed — advantage Rattlers if they execute.

2. Pressure Christian Peters — Disrupt the Passing Rhythm
UAPB QB Christian Peters has been solid through the air (200 yards per game), but he's also been sacked 1.5 times per game and operates behind a line that allows consistent pressure. This is a golden opportunity for FAMU's front to break out. While the Rattlers rank low in sacks nationally, they've shown flashes from leaders like Antonio Camon and Corey Collier Jr. If they can collapse the pocket early, UAPB's timing-based passing attack will crumble.

Key stat: UAPB ranks 116th nationally in team sacks (1.13/game) — FAMU's pass rush can flip that script.

3. Clean Football Wins Football Games
FAMU leads the SWAC in fewest penalties (50) and fewest turnovers (5) — a sign of discipline that sets them apart. UAPB, meanwhile, is middle-of-the-pack in both categories. In a game where field position and rhythm matter, the Rattlers' ability to avoid flags and protect the football gives them the upper hand. Expect Coach Colzie to emphasize smart execution and avoiding drive-killing mistakes.

Key stat: FAMU ranks No. 1 in the SWAC in fewest penalties and turnovers lost.

4. Special Teams: The X-Factor
When games get tight, special teams swing momentum — and FAMU's unit has been among the nation's best. Punter Bobby Engstler leads the SWAC at 42.6 yards per punt, flipping the field consistently, while kicker Daniel Porto is near automatic (86.7% FG rate, 1st in the league at 1.63 FGs per game). On the flip side, UAPB has struggled in return defense and coverage, ranking 62nd in punt return defense and 95th in blocked kicks allowed. This could be where the Rattlers break one open.

Key stat: FAMU ranks 2nd nationally in blocked kicks and 1st in SWAC punting average.

5. Start Fast, Finish Strong
Arkansas–Pine Bluff has allowed 32.4 points per game and over 430 yards of total defense, one of the lowest-ranked units in the SWAC. FAMU's balanced attack — 226 passing yards and 118 rushing yards per game — can exploit that if they start quickly and keep the pressure on. Look for Thad Franklin Jr. to pound the ball early to open passing lanes for Johnson and playmakers like Kenari Wilcher, who averages 88 all-purpose yards per game.

Key stat: UAPB ranks 10th in total defense (431.5 ypg) — FAMU needs to hit 30+ points to cruise.