TALLAHASSEE, FL –– The Rattlers are ready to make a triumphant return to Bragg Memorial Stadium this Saturday for their game against the Texas Southern Tigers. The Rattlers, fresh off a decisive win over Southern, enter the game on a 22-game home winning streak – the second-longest in the nation. Head coach Colsey knows the stakes are high as the team looks to keep their unbeaten streak at home and continue their dominance over Texas Southern, a team they have defeated in their last four meetings.
At the weekly press conference, Coach Colsey addressed the unique challenges of returning home. “Obviously, homecoming is a big time here at Florida A&M. This is a source of pride for our team, the program and the university,” he said. However, he remains focused on keeping his players fit amid the extra activities, admitting: “We can’t have any slips or anything else that negates our ability to continue to climb the rankings.”
The Texas Southern Tigers bring a formidable challenge to Tallahassee, especially with an offense led by a flexible quarterback system. Coach Colsey noted that the Tigers present a well-balanced offense regardless of who starts under center and will push the Rattles’ defense. “They create a problem with what they like to do formation-wise,” he explained, pointing out that Texas Southern’s offense is designed to keep defenses guessing and exploiting mismatches downfield.
Defensively, the Rattlers are coming off a three-game losing streak, a promising streak that Coach Colzie expects to continue. He highlighted the improvement in execution on both sides of the ball as a factor, particularly in the defense’s newfound chemistry and positioning. “I still feel like we haven’t played a complete game yet, and I think we’re going to be really scary once we do,” Colsey said, setting high expectations for this homecoming showcase.
One key player to watch is the special teams punter and receiver Jamari Gassettwhich had a breakthrough last week. “He does special things with the football,” coach Colsey praised, highlighting Gassett’s impact on offense and in the return game. With opposing defenses focusing on containing him, the Rattlers plan to get Gassett the ball creatively to maximize his scoring potential.
The Rattlers know the Tigers will bring everything they’ve got, especially since Texas Southern head coach Dishman is reportedly fired up about being selected as a homecoming opponent. Coach Colsey responded with respect for his colleague, acknowledging Texas Southern’s recent success and the challenges it poses.
As the Rattlers take the field this Saturday, they will be supported by an electrified Bragg crowd eager to see their team continue its winning streak.
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