Florida A&M’s homecoming weekend saw the Rattlers put on a dazzling display against Texas Southern, with the Rattlers earning a decisive 52-28 victory in front of a packed Bragg Memorial Stadium.
With an electric atmosphere, the Rattlers put together an impressive performance on both sides of the ball, showcasing their strength on offense and defense.
At the heart of FAMU’s victory was quarterback Daniel Richardson, who put on a masterclass, throwing for five touchdowns and setting the tone for the game from the outset.
Richardson’s command of the field was evident as he connected with his receivers early and often. In the first half alone, he tossed three touchdown passes, building a comfortable lead that put the Rattlers firmly in control.
Richardson’s poise and accuracy gave the Texas Southern defense no room to breathe, and his explosive plays created early momentum that carried FAMU into halftime with a significant edge.
The run game was on display today as Bo Summersett led the running backs with six rushes for 75 yards. Kelvin Dean Jr. had nine for 62 yards. Thad Franklin Jr. rushed for 57 yards on 10 carries and the Rattlers’ first rushing touchdown of the season. FAMU’s 236 rushing yards set a season-high.
Richardson acknowledged how the performance of his running backs helped with their Rattlers’ pass game.
“The run helps out the pass, and the pass helps out the run. It’s complementary football,” Richardson said.
The game took an unexpected turn in the third quarter when Texas Southern managed to mount a comeback, taking advantage of a brief lapse in FAMU’s defense. The Tigers came out of halftime determined to make a statement, putting together a 21-point third quarter that briefly put FAMU on its heels. Texas Southern’s offense began to find its rhythm, narrowing FAMU’s lead to just 14 points at one point and injecting a sense of tension back into the stadium.
But just as Texas Southern seemed to gain momentum, FAMU’s defense reasserted itself, making crucial stops to stall the Tigers’ resurgence.
The Rattlers’ defense showed their tenacity, ultimately allowing Texas Southern only 164 total yards for the game—111 on the ground and a mere 53 through the air. FAMU’s defensive line, in particular, was relentless in stopping the run, while the secondary kept Texas Southern’s passing game in check.
Richardson connected for two more touchdown passes in the second half, extending FAMU’s advantage and putting the game out of reach for the Tigers.
Ultimately, FAMU’s 52-24 win over Texas Southern was a reflection of the potential to dominate on both sides of the ball. Richardson’s precision and leadership at quarterback, paired with a defense that limited Texas Southern to only 164 total yards, highlighted FAMU’s balanced approach.
FAMU will be on the road for their next contest as they travel to take on Prairie View.