Rattlers travel to Montgomery for SWAC opener – Florida A&M

MONTGOMERY, Ala. –– As the Florida A&M Rattlers prepare to travel to Montgomery for their first Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) matchup of the season, they bring with them the confidence of a four-game winning streak against the Alabama State Hornets. However, Head Coach James Colzie knows that Alabama State’s tough defense and strong rushing game will pose a significant challenge when the Rattlers take the field.

Coming off a rare and unexpected bye week due to Hurricane Helene, Coach Colzie emphasized the importance of rest and recovery for his team. “The advantage for us is we got a chance to get healthy,” Colzie noted, underscoring that the additional week off allowed us to regroup and study the Hornets’ recent performance.

Alabama State enters this game with momentum after securing a tight victory over Bethune-Cookman in their conference opener, amassing over 300 yards on the ground. “They want to run the football and play good defense,” Colzie said. He highlighted that their physical, run-first approach has been the Hornets’ identity in recent seasons, a style of play that could make it a long night for the Rattlers if they aren’t prepared.

The Rattlers’ recent success in this series doesn’t guarantee an easy win. In their last trip to Montgomery in 2022, Florida A&M narrowly escaped with a victory. Colzie expects a similarly hard-fought game this time around. “It’s a place where we snuck one out in 2022, and I’m anticipating a similar football game in 2024,” he said. Playing in front of Alabama State’s passionate homecoming crowd only adds to the challenge.

Colzie also acknowledged the importance of starting SWAC play on a strong note. “We got to go there ready to play so we can start off in SWAC play 1-0,” he remarked, showing the team’s focus on execution and intensity heading into a crucial road matchup.

Now rested and refocused, the Rattlers aim to extend their winning streak against the Hornets while proving they’re ready to defend their SWAC Championship.

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