They BRAGG Different | FAMU Wins First Home Game 22-18

FAMU out edges SCSU in a tough battle finishing 21-18 at Home. Photo of player from FAMU Football Instagram, graphic created by Dez Barnes | Pretty Girls Media 

Coming into tonight’s game, the topic of discussion was whether the Rattlers could continue their current winning streak at Bragg Memorial. The running statement is that they do not lose at Bragg, and even though they consider every stadium "Bragg," everyone knows that protecting the home field is the main objective.

On a very hot day, the Rattlers took to the field in orange tops and green pants, giving them a clean and traditional Rattler look. The Rattlers were playing their second game of the season, while the Bulldogs of South Carolina State University were coming in fresh for their first game. In previous interviews, Head Coach Chennis Berry from SCSU mentioned being prepared to play a full 60 minutes and aiming to go 1-0 for their first game at Bragg. They were coming in with a chip on their shoulders. For FAMU, it was no surprise, as they always mention having a target on their backs and knowing they have to give it their all every time.

As the game started, the Rattler fans roared and cheered to make it known that they were there to root their team to victory. SCSU traveled well too; they brought their full band, a pack of alumni fans, and a student section that represented well.

Marching 100 performs ahead of the game recognizing the HOF. Photo: Dez Barnes

Once again, FAMU started off slow and seemed to make minor mistakes that turned costly. They struggled in the red zone and seemed to always have to fight to convert third downs. The same could be said for the Bulldogs, as their offense failed to complete passes consecutively. However, they were the first team to put points on the board with a field goal, breaking the 0-0 tie near the end of the first quarter.

Heading into the second quarter, FAMU knew they had to respond. After a few possessions that resulted in losses of yards and incomplete passes, QB Daniel Richardson was able to complete a 29-yard pass for a touchdown to Jamari Gassett, putting the score at 7-3. The Rattlers could have changed the trajectory of the game had they not missed a field goal attempt, followed by an uncharacteristic fumble, which gave SCSU the upper hand as they capitalized on the mistake and scored. Although the Rattlers were not down as much as they were the previous week, when they trailed 14-0, they still needed to polish their mistakes, regroup, and play higher-caliber football.

FAMU is known to be a strong second-half team, especially in the fourth quarter, so tension was high after halftime. It seemed like the game was going to be a tough battle, but just as expected, they fought back after the Bulldogs capitalized on another mistake and added six points to the board. The special teams were able to block an extra point and stop a two-point conversion in the second half, which boosted the team's confidence.

Once the Rattlers focused and steadied themselves, they were able to punch back by getting into the end zone. Richardson saved a few plays and showed why his teammate Jamari Gassett calls him "Mr. Make It Happen." He stepped up and was able to lead the team down the field effectively twice more. This definitely got the crowd hyped as they continued until the end of the game. Once things turned in FAMU's favor, the players did too; they began dancing on the sidelines and the field, celebrating being able to stay steady and play complementary football.

Video shot by Dez Barnes

The Rattlers were able to hold onto their lead and win the game 22-18. In the post-game conference, Head Coach Colzie III identified the problem areas, mentioned how they planned to work on them, and explained why this win was significant. The players emphasized why the Bragg environment is special to them and how it played a huge part in why they chose FAMU.

The Rattlers are moving forward to face the University of Miami next week. The Hurricanes are going to be a fierce competitor, as they defeated the Florida Gators 41-17 today. The Rattlers have a tough road ahead, but for now, they continue to BRAGG different.