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Written By: Nathan Skinner
Canes Rising Contributor
Name: Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
Mascot: Rattlers
Location: Tallahassee, Florida
Home Stadium: Bragg Memorial Stadium (Capacity: 25,500)
Conference: Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference(MEAC)
Athletic Director: Kellen Winslow Sr.
Head Coach: Earl Holmes
Time Capsule
FAMU isn't the dominant program it was under legendary coach Jake Gaither. The Rattlers have been in the bottom half of the MEAC for most of the last 4 years. Third year coach Earl Holmes looks to rebuild the Rattlers to their former glory, but it has been an uphill struggle. Florida A&M went 3-9 last year, and lost to Ohio State 76-0.
What To Expect This Season
Offense
FAMU is led by dual threat quarterback Damien Fleming. Fleming had a solid opener against Jackson State, going 16 for 27 for 188 yards, with 2 touchdowns. FAMU also uses Fleming as a rusher, especially in short yardage situations. The Rattlers are a ground control offense, depending on Fleming and running back Gerald Hearns to carry the mail. Hearns is a true freshman that averaged 3.5 yards per carry last week against JSU. The passing game isn't explosive, but FAMU does have some talent at the receiver position. "Spiffy" Evans is a transfer from Boston College, and is expected to add a dimension of speed to the Rattler attack.
Defense
Head Coach Earl Holmes doubles as the defensive coordinator and he has plenty of help on this side of the ball. Former NFL All-Pro Levon Kirkland is the defensive line coach, and former NFL star Corey Fuller is also a defensive coach for the Rattlers. This unit gave up a last play touchdown to Jackson State. It's a unit that gives up yards in bunches, but has shown the ability to tighten when pushed into the red zone. This defense has some solid linebackers, including Shaun Ward, and Akil Blount.
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