In a dramatic season opener, the reigning HBCU national champions, Florida A&M, pulled off a narrow 24-23 victory over Norfolk State in the Cricket MEAC/SWAC Challenge at Center Parc Stadium in Atlanta, GA. The game, held before a lively crowd of 22,210 fans, was a nail-biting contest that saw the Rattlers rally from a 14-point deficit to secure the win.
Florida A&M’s quarterback, Daniel Richardson, was the star of the night, earning Most Valuable Player honors. Richardson showcased his skills by completing 22-of-30 passes for 286 yards and three touchdowns. His performance was pivotal in the Rattlers’ comeback, and he also added 32 rushing yards on three attempts.
The game marked the debut of Florida A&M’s first-year head coach, James Colzie III, who celebrated his first win with the team. The victory also extended the SWAC’s winning streak in the MEAC/SWAC Challenge to three games, narrowing the MEAC’s lead in the series to 11-7.
The action began with Norfolk State taking an early 14-0 lead after touchdowns on their first two possessions. Florida A&M responded with a touchdown late in the first quarter, a 20-yard pass from Richardson to Thad Franklin, cutting the deficit to 14-7. A 33-yard field goal by Cameron Gillis early in the second quarter further trimmed Norfolk State’s lead to 14-10 at halftime.
The Rattlers took their first lead of the game in the third quarter when Richardson connected with Jamari Gassett on a 55-yard touchdown pass. Norfolk State quickly tied the game with a field goal, but Florida A&M regained the lead with another Richardson-to-Gassett touchdown, making it 24-17 heading into the final quarter.
Norfolk State fought back, capitalizing on a forced fumble to drive 73 yards for a touchdown, bringing the score to 24-23. However, their attempt at a go-ahead two-point conversion was thwarted by Florida A&M’s linebacker Aric Horne, who stopped Norfolk State’s Jalen Daniels behind the line of scrimmage.
Florida A&M then controlled the clock, driving to the Norfolk State 12-yard line and running out the clock to secure the victory.
Statistically, Florida A&M outgained Norfolk State 403-369 in total yardage. While the Spartans dominated on the ground with 227 rushing yards, led by Kevon King’s 146 yards, they were unable to overcome Florida A&M’s balanced attack. King was held to just 41 yards in the second half as the Rattlers tightened their defense.
Checkout some of our photos from the event below:
