Florida A&M University will be the first Historically Black College and University to appear Saturday on ESPN’s popular sports show, “College Game Day.”
The show will air live at 10 a.m before the Rattlers face off against Hampton University’s Pirates at 1 p.m. in the second-to-last game of the season at Bragg Stadium.
“It’s a tremendous honor for FAMU. It’s something to help set us apart from other HBCUs,” said Alvin Hollins, FAMU’s sports information director. “Hopefully they will have a good experience and come back.”
ESPN anchor Chris Fowler and a panel of guests including: former coach Lee Corso and former college football players Kirk Herbstreit and Desmond Howard, will broadcast in front of Coleman Library.
The event occurs after Rattlers recently won against North Carolina A&T’s Aggies with 45-7 victory. Hampton University will be 5-4 the start of the game. With a 7-3 record, FAMU’s junior linebacker Gregory Boler said his team can pull off another win, especially with the excitement already built up for event.
“I’m ready to go against the Pirates,” he said. “After so many years of watching College Game Day, I never thought they would come to an HBCU.”
Rattlers, led under the direction of have one more game against Bethune Cookman at the Orlando Classic Nov. 22. But first the team will have to make it through the MEAC competition this weekend.
“I’m looking forward to it because it’s Senior Day and our last home game so hopefully we can go into Orlando with positive momentum,” Hollins said.
Students are also looking forward to ESPN coming to FAMU.
Jack Forrester, 18, a freshman general studies student from Valdosta Ga. said he is excited that ESPN show, “College Game Day” is coming to FAMU.
“I think that it is one of the most awesome events of our time,” Forrester said. “It should always come to FAMU and host games. I’m very excited and can’t wait to be out there rooting for our team.”
Shante’ Peters, 18, a first year business student from Pompano Beach said the time is overdue for the Rattlers to be recognized nationally.
“I’m proud of my school and I wish them the best,” she said. “I will be in the stands screaming as I usually am.”
FAMU football players that are in their last year will be celebrated.
FAMU’s Marching 100 and cheerleaders will perform during the show along with highlights of players aired live on ESPN.
Video segments and an outline of “players to watch” can be found on CollegeGameDay.com.