Game story: Florida A&M Rattlers fall to Deion Sanders and Jackson State football

by 24USATVSept. 6, 2021, midnight 55
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This is the 20th meeting between the Florida A&M Rattlers and Tigers. Jackson State leads the all-time series with a 10-7-2 record. Sunday's matchup marks the third time these programs will play in the Orange Blossom Classic. The teams split wins in 1961 and 1962.

The last encounter between the schools occurred on Sept. 15, 2018 at Bragg Memorial Stadium. Poor clock management by FAMU in the closing seconds resulted in an 18-16 score favoring Jackson State.

These historic programs feature a who's who college football legends. Sunday's game adds to the long list of iconic outings on the gridiron.

How to watch:How to watch Florida A&M Rattlers college football vs. Jackson State Tigers on TV, live stream

Star power:Ochocinco attends FAMU practice at the University of Miami for the Orange Blossom Classic

In what was supposed to be an offensive explosion turned into a defensive slugfest with Jackson State beating Florida A&M 7-6 in the Orange Blossom Classic.

All the scoring took place in the first half.

Tigers quarterback Shadeur Sanders had a 1-yard in the second quarter.

FAMU's points were two field goals (21, 39) by Jose Romo-Martinez.

This was the first time in the Willie Simmons coaching era at FAMU that the Rattlers were held without a touchdown.

The team's struggles also led to a quarterback change to begin the fourth quarter. RaSean McKay was pulled for true freshman Junior Muratovic.

McKay was 18 of 29 for 78 yards. Muratovic completed 5 of 11 passes for 47 yards.

Both quarterbacks faced extreme pressure from the Tigers' defense.

FAMU running back Bishop Bonnett led all rushers with 80 yards on 16 carries.

This was the SWAC debut for the Rattlers. They joined the conference as full-time members in June.

FAMU and Jackson State played a scoreless third quarter. The Tigers have a 7-6 advantage heading to the final frame.

The defensive unit for the Rattlers has kept them in the game.

They continue to play well in pass coverage and filling the box to stuff Jackson State's ground game.

Jackson State is 2 of 11 on third down.

FAMU came into this contest with a loaded offense. However, it has been held in check. It has mustered only 144 yards through three quarters.

Tigers linebacker Nyles Gaddy has been a true force on defense. He has frequently disrupted passes with his pressure.

Jose Romo-Martinez drilled two field goals (21, 39) to give FAMU its only points for the day.

Jackson State quarterback Shadeur Sanders posted the lone touchdown of the first half when he scored on a 1-yard plunge.

The freshman crossed the goal line in the second quarter.

He's also had his share of miscues. Sanders lost two fumbles on untouched plays.

His stats for the half include going 9 of 14 for 132 yards.

FAMU kicker Jose Romo-Martinez has two field goals of 21 and 39 yards for his team's points.

The Rattlers have struggled mightily to move the football. They were held to 75 yards of total offense in the first half.

Quarterback RaSean McKay has been pressured on nearly every pass attempt. When he has had time, his throws haven't led to huge gains.

FAMU running back Terrell Jennings has 36 yards to lead his team.

Jackson State's Peytton Pickett is the top rusher of the half with 43 yards.

The Rattlers will receive the ball to begin the second half.

4 p.m. | Rattlers lead 3-0 to close out first quarter

Despite the inability to maintain its blocking, Florida A&M managed to close out the first quarter with a 3-0 lead over Jackson State in the Orange Blossom Classic.

Quarterback RaSean McKay has seen pressure with every dropback. He completed 4 of 9 for just 4 yards.

Scoring for the Rattlers came off the leg of kicker Jose Romo-Martinez, who made a 21-yard field goal.

Jackson State missed 32-yard field goal attempt to tie the game late in the quarter.

Tigers freshman quarterback Shadeur Sanders mishandled the first snap of the game. Since then, he's played well in his collegiate debut.

Shadeur is the son of Jackson State coach Deion Sanders.

Sanders is 3 of 5 on passes for 42 yards.

The biggest play of the quarter was a reversal on a fumble recovery by Jackson State for a touchdown. On the call, there was an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty.

This gave FAMU great position and put it in place for the field goal.

The start of the Orange Blossom Classic was a wet and wild affair. Jackson State QB Shedeur Sanders fumbled on the first snap of the game.

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