After trailing in each of its 1st four games, FAMU looks for quick start vs Alabama A&M
While Florida A&M football coach James Colzie III loves his team's resolve, he would also love to see one important change Saturday.
"I am really anxious to see how we play with a lead," Colzie said Monday.
"No matter the circumstance - I want to say we’ve played four games, 16 quarters - I haven’t seen us give up yet, regardless of what the circumstance has been, regardless of what the score has been.
"I am eager to see how we would play if we start well."
The Rattlers (2-2) have trailed in each of their first four games this season heading into their Southwestern Athletic Conference opener against Alabama A&M (2-2) at Bragg Memorial Stadium at 6 pm. on ESPN+.
FAMU also enters with the nation's longest Football Championship Subdivision home win streak at 21 games.
FAMU football rallies to win two of its first four games
FAMU rallied to win games against fellow FCS members Norfolk State (24-23) and South Carolina State (22-18). However, it was unable to generate enough momentum to overcome Football Bowl Subdivision road opponents Miami (56-9) and Troy (34-12) last Saturday.
The Rattlers have fallen behind in their first four games by an average of 9.75 points prior to scoring.
They trailed Norfolk State 14-0, South Carolina State 3-0, Miami 15-0 and Troy 7-0. The deficits reflect an uphill climb as FAMU has averaged only 16.75 points per game this season.
Colzie said his team is focused on a better start against Alabama A&M.
I think that’s something we just have to continue to push upon them," Colzie said.
"We’ve putting things early in practice to help us be ready to go at the start of practice. Our revolve (is team strength). But, again would love, would love to play with a lead ands see how we can handle ourselves at that time."
FAMU quarterback Daniel Richardson ranks second in the SWAC in passing with an average of 246.8 yards per game. Receiver Jamari Gassett is second with 24 receptions. Overall, the Rattlers are fifth in total offense (337.8) and eighth in defense (427.8).
The Bulldogs, meanwhile, are coming off a 59-16 defeat at Austin Peay and have trailed in two of their first four games.
After it tied Austin Peay 3-3 early in the first quarter, Alabama A&M surrendered 49 unanswered points. A&M finished with 259 total yards, 209 passing. The Bulldogs were outgained 445-to-259.
FAMU beat A&M 42-28 last year en route to the SWAC and HBCU championships. The Rattlers lead the overall series 3-0.
Here's what you need to know about the FAMU-Alabama A&M football game
Who: FAMU (2-2) vs. Alabama A&M (2-2)
When: Saturday, Bragg Memorial Stadium, 6 p.m.
Streaming: ESPN+
This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: FAMU football looks for quick start in SWAC opener vs Alabama A&M
