Jackson State University(JSU) scored 15 points in the fourth quarter to secure a 27-17 homecoming victory over Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) rival Florida A&M University (FAMU) on Saturday at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium.
More than 40,000 fans packed the stadium for the highly anticipated matchup between the Tigers and the Rattlers, adding to the atmosphere of one of Jackson State’s biggest home games of the season.
FAMU quarterback Armond Parker entered the contest ranked among the SWAC’s top five passers, with 762 passing yards and eight touchdowns.
Jackson State established momentum early after stopping FAMU on its opening drive. The Tigers capitalized on favorable field position following an interception by B.J. Washington. Quarterback Caron Tyler capped a five-play drive with a rushing touchdown, his first of the season, to put Jackson State on the scoreboard.
The Rattlers responded on their next possession, putting together a four-minute drive that ended with Parker scoring on a 5-yard run.
The teams almost entered halftime tied at 10 until JSU recorded a safety on FAMU, giving the Tigers a 12-10 lead. After an unsuccessful drive by the Tigers, the Rattlers struck on their opening drive in the second half with an 81-yard touchdown run by Jamal Hailey, taking their first lead of the game 17-12.
FAMU’s defense held Jackson State scoreless in the third quarter as the Rattlers continued to build their offensive production, totaling 321 yards. However, the Tigers found their rhythm in the final quarter.
With possession of the ball, JSU quarterback Jared Lockhart led a seven-play scoring drive, connecting with wide receiver Jabari Jones for a 25-yard touchdown pass. The score put the Tigers ahead 20-17.
Jackson State’s rushing attack played a key role in the victory, finishing with 226 yards on the ground. Running back Li’Darious led the Tigers with 80 rushing yards, while Nate Blount IV added 63 yards and a late fourth-quarter touchdown to secure the 27-17 win.
Through six games, Blount IV has rushed for 562 yards on 88 carries, placing him second in the conference.The victory moved Jackson State to 6-1 on the season. The Tigers will travel to face Bethune-Cookman in their next matchup.
Meanwhile, FAMU and first-year head coach Quinn Gray Sr. will return home to host fellow SWAC opponent Arkansas-Pine Bluff.
