Freshman defensive back Herman Jackson taking the field against Savannah State University.
Photo courtesy of FAMU athletics
Anyone who watched the Florida A&M football team take on the North Carolina A&T Aggies this year likely knows about Herman Jackson.
A freshman defensive back, who has been heating up the football field recently. Jackson has two interceptions in his past two games and returned a fumble for a touchdown against NC A&T, helping the Rattlers defeat the Aggies 22-21.
A closer look at Jackson’s journey to where he is now shows his hard work and dedication to football. Being from Miami, FL is not always the easiest task as a young black male. Overcoming obstacles and staying true to himself landed Jackson with a scholarship to FAMU to play football.
At the age of 6, Jackson found a strong love for football early on. Jackson has always been talented in football, which landed him an offer from Temple University as well, but because FAMU was closer to home, the Rattlers stole his heart and he began his collegiate career in Tallahassee.
Herman Jackson returning a fumble recovery for a touchdown against North Carolina A&T.
Photo courtesy of FAMU athletics
“It feels great being No. 1 in the MEAC Division. Knowing that we did not have that many wins last year feels like a big accomplishment already,” said Jackson. “I was offered a scholarship to FAMU so I’m just here to keep grinding.”
FAMU is currently first in the MEAC standings with a 5-2 record so far. Though the Rattlers have struggled in the past with getting wins, this year’s team has been working extremely hard to keep up this winning streak.
The team is also working hard to break the seven-year losing streak against rival Bethune Cookman at the annual Florida Classic, but Jackson says it is not time to worry about BCU just yet.
“Honestly we are not worried about Bethune at this moment,” said Jackson. “We are taking things one game at a time so for now we are focusing on our game against Morgan State.”
If Jackson and the Rattlers continue their momentum, they are bound for success, especially for the Florida Classic next month, which is such a huge game for FAMU. Jackson is a player to watch – as earning Rookie of the Week during his freshman year is a huge accomplishment. He definitely has the potential to become one of the faces of FAMU football.