Rattler fans were finally able to take a look at their beloved football team as they took the field for the annual Orange and Green game Saturday.
The players took the field ready to showcase what those fans would be in for next season.
The offense held off the defense 30-20 in a game that was intense from the opening snap.
The first team offense took on the first team defense, while the second team offense battled the second team defense.
The offensive units were rewarded for touchdowns, extra points, and first downs.
The defense garnered points by stopping the offense on downs, field goal blocks, turnovers, and defensive touchdowns.
Junior quarterback Albert Chester, last season’s Orlando Classic hero, led the first team offense. Chester struggled in the first half to complete passes, but picked things up in the second half, eventually completing nine of 23 passes. Chester used his legs to do some damage as well, running for 22 yards on seven carries.
Junior quarterback Leon Camel fared better leading the second team with 129 yards, two touchdowns and one interception.
While the players had to compete with each other, they also had to deal with the smoldering Tallahassee heat.
Coach Rubin Carter said that the weather wouldn’t affect his team. “We had to contend with the weather today, but this is Florida. It’s going to be hot. We are going to have to play through it. Games don’t get canceled because it’s too hot.”
Coach Carter said that despite the score, the defense showed promise. “The defense did a good job of executing. Our offense struggled a little bit with penalties. We kind of shot ourselves in the foot with penalties,” Carter said.
Freshman wide receiver Jarvis Funderburk said both sides did well in the scrimmage.
“The coaches were looking for high tempo, for us to go full speed, and know our plays. I think we did well for the most part,” Funderburk said.
Freshman strong safety Michael Creary said the team had the right attitude going into the game. “The intensity was definitely there. It really went well.”
While the fans were able to enjoy their first taste of Rattler football, they won’t necessarily see the same lineup come September.
“We haven’t set a roster yet. We will be evaluating things this week,” Carter said.
Carter said things will fall into place once training camp begins.
“This is only the first phase. Training camp is the second,” Carter said.
Carter also looks forward to seeing what next year’s recruiting class has to offer. “I am extremely pleased with the recruiting class coming in next year. They want to be here. They understand the rich heritage and culture of FAMU football,” Carter said.
Contact Akeem Anderson at thefamuansports@hotmail.com