Florida A&M heads into this week’s matchup against North Carolina Central with a chance to make a statement and get back to Rattler football — disciplined, physical, and opportunistic. The Eagles bring one of the top offenses in the FCS, but FAMU’s balance, toughness, and special teams edge give the Rattlers every opportunity to seize control.
Here are the Friday Fast 5 Keys for Florida A&M to take down NCCU.
1.Own the Clock and Control the Game
Florida A&M’s identity starts with discipline and patience. The Rattlers rank No. 1 in the SWAC and Top 20 nationally in time of possession (32:32) — proving they know how to dictate tempo. Sustaining long drives, converting on third downs (42%), and wearing down the NCCU defense will be key. The more FAMU controls the clock, the fewer chances the Eagles’ high-powered offense will get.
2.Take Care of the Ball, Take It Away
Few teams in the country protect the football like the Rattlers. FAMU has lost just one turnover all season, tied for best in the nation. On the flip side, North Carolina Central has given it away 10 times. If the Rattlers’ defense — led by Corey Collier Jr., who ranks among the nation’s leaders in forced fumbles — can create extra possessions, it’ll flip the field and momentum in an instant.
3.Let the Playmakers Shine
This is where FAMU’s depth shows up. Kenari Wilcher continues to prove he’s one of the most explosive all-purpose players in the FCS, averaging over 100 yards per game, tops in the SWAC. Add in Thad Franklin Jr., who runs with power and purpose, and FAMU has the tools to grind out tough yards and hit big plays in space. The more touches these two get, the tougher FAMU is to stop.
4.Win the Hidden Yardage Game
Special teams could tilt this matchup. Bobby Engstler is a major weapon, ranking No. 1 in the SWAC and 13th nationally in punting (44.4 yards per punt). Combine that with Daniel Porto’s steady kicking (83% field goal rate), and the Rattlers can win the field position battle. Against a team like NCCU that thrives on short fields, FAMU’s special teams consistency will be a difference-maker.
5. Set the Tone on Defense
North Carolina Central’s offense scores nearly 35 points per game, but FAMU’s defense is built for physical, four-quarter football. The Rattlers are Top 5 in the SWAC in total defense, allowing just 368 yards per game, and 3rd in first downs allowed. Led by a disciplined front and opportunistic secondary, this group has the toughness to control the line of scrimmage and force the Eagles into long-yardage situations. When the Rattlers tackle clean and play assignment sound, they’re hard to beat.
