The Florida A&M University Rattlers (6-2) are going into the homecoming football game Saturday against the Morgan State University Bears (5-3) with the same mindset as any other.
“My emotions and feeling about this game are the same for any other game,” said offensive lineman Javier Wallace. “I am excited and amped up about facing another opponent, and having the chance to dominate the man in front of me,” said the Austin, Tx. native.
Taylor has instilled a sense of urgency in the team despite an impressive 6-2 record.
“It’s going to be 60 minutes,” said head football coach Joe Taylor. “Every play makes a difference, whether it’s offense, defense or special teams.”
Taylor said the team must limit mistakes to keep the team’s playoffs hopes alive.
“We can’t turn the ball over,” Taylor said.
FAMU had a total of five turnovers last week against Norfolk State University. The Rattlers also had eight penalties for a total of 67 lost yards. The FAMU offense also allowed NSU to get four sacks.
Damien Priester, said the key to securing a victory on homecoming will be to focus on the task at hand, and not succumb to game day pressure.
“It’s a big game of course. It’s not any different from any other game,” said Priester, 21, a junior from Orlando. “It’s not going to be an easy game, but it’s going to be a good game.”
Priester said in order for the team to win, they need to able to stop the Bears offense.
“We are just going to have to stop the run and make them pass a lot because they’re a good running team,” Priester said
Home field advantage could also be a factor in this Saturday’s game. FAMU is (2-1) for home games. Some players are thrilled with playing at home this weekend.
“It’s nothing like playing on homecoming,” said offensive lineman Anthony Collins.
Brian Gilmore, quarterback/holder, said anything could happen in this year’s homecoming game against the Bears
“It could come down to offense making a big play or defense making a goal line stand. Or it could come down to a field goal like last week,” said Gilmore, 21, a senior from Sugar Hill, Ga. “It could be anything.”
Gilmore said the game is very important and it is a win that the Rattlers need.
“It’s homecoming,” Gilmore said. “It’s a conference game, and it will help boost our chances in making the playoffs.”