FAMU Beats MVSU 16-13 at Bragg Memorial Stadium

FAMU Beats MVSU 16-13 at Bragg Memorial Stadium

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Florida A&M held on to secure a 16-13 victory over Mississippi Valley State on Saturday, surviving a late-game field goal attempt to claim a narrow win at Bragg Memorial Stadium.

The Rattlers faced a high-pressure finish in Tallahassee after the Delta Devils reached striking distance in the final minutes. While FAMU struggled to find the endzone during the decisive drive, Gabriel Perez converted a field goal to reclaim the lead, a margin that proved insurmountable for MVSU.

The game swung on several momentum shifts, including a wild touchdown sequence and a critical special teams play. According to tallahassee.com, FAMU took a 13-7 lead in the third quarter through a sequence where James Hayes connected with Armand Burris for a 23-yard gain, only for Burris to lose control of the ball before tipping it to Jamar Taylor for the score.

Mississippi Valley State fought back to tie the game at 13-13 in the third quarter. The Delta Devils utilized a “tush push” strategy, scoring on a second attempt by quarterback Josh Brown, though Luka Sari missed the subsequent extra point.

Defensive stands and turnovers defined the middle frames of the contest. FAMU’s defense provided a spark when Antonio Camon pressured Josh Brown, leading to an interception by defensive lineman Isaiah Morrison. However, the Rattlers’ offense struggled with consistency, as James Hayes finished the game completing 10 of 22 passes for 87 yards and enduring two sacks.

Special teams played a decisive role in the outcome. Earlier in the third quarter, FAMU blocked a 41-yard field goal attempt by Luka Sari, which David Okechuwu returned to the 35-yard line.

The statistical breakdown at halftime showed a tight contest, with FAMU leading in total yardage but trailing in the score:

Statistic FAMU MVSU
Halftime Score 7 6
First Downs 11 6
Rushing Yards 57 70
Receiving Yards 87 34
Total Yards 144 104

FAMU’s ability to capitalize on field position proved the difference in the fourth quarter. After a false start by Christian Wingfield stalled a potential touchdown drive following a reception by Armand Burris, the Rattlers settled for a field goal by Perez to move ahead 16-13.

The victory comes during a season of difficulty for the Rattlers. Prior to this matchup, FAMU held a 2-8 record, including a 1-5 standing within the SWAC.

The program’s schedule has featured several high-profile matchups this year, including games against Miami and Tennessee State. FAMU will look to build on this momentum as they prepare for their upcoming matchup against Bethune-Cookman on November 21.

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