FAMU Rattlers Poised for Exciting Miami Showdown in 2026
|
Posted By: Will Moss on January 30, 2026 TALLAHASSEE, FL - The Florida A&M Rattlers football team is gearing up for an exciting start to the 2026 season, with plans to stay in the Miami area for back-to-back games against some of the toughest opponents they'll face all year. Last season, the Rattlers opened against the Howard Bison in the Orange Blossom Classic at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, then traveled north the following week to take on the Florida Atlantic Owls in Boca Raton. This year, FAMU is doubling down on their Miami presence, keeping the team planted in South Florida for the first two weeks of the season. The Rattlers will kick things off on Sunday, September 6th in the Orange Blossom Classic, where they'll face the defending HBCU national champion South Carolina State Bulldogs. They'll then remain in Miami before taking on the mighty Miami Hurricanes on Thursday, September 10th. Key Takeaway: This strategic scheduling will significantly reduce travel costs and allow the Rattlers to focus on academics and preparation rather than navigating a compressed travel schedule in the early part of the season.
For new head coach Quinn Gray, this will be a baptism by fire as he takes the reins of the Rattlers program. Gray, who previously led the Albany State Golden Rams to an SIAC championship and an NCAA Division II playoff victory, will be tested early, facing the top HBCU program at the FCS level before squaring off against one of the nation's premier FBS teams. Before the Miami stretch, the Rattlers will open the season at home on August 29th against the Albany State Golden Rams - the program Gray recently led to success. "This is an exciting opportunity for our team to showcase their talents on a national stage. Playing against the defending HBCU champions and then the powerhouse Miami Hurricanes will be a true test, but I know our Rattlers are up for the challenge." While the Marching "100" band's travel plans for the 2026 season are still being finalized, FAMU Director of Bands Dr. Shelby Chipman noted that the band is contractually part of the Orange Blossom Classic. HBCUConnect PerspectiveThis blockbuster scheduling decision by the Florida A&M Rattlers is a testament to the growing prominence and competitiveness of HBCU football programs. By facing off against the defending HBCU national champions and then one of the top FBS teams in the country, the Rattlers are putting the HBCU community on full display. This will not only showcase the talent of the FAMU student-athletes, but also highlight the rich tradition and spirit that makes HBCU athletics so special. HBCUConnect is thrilled to follow along as the Rattlers take on this tough early-season challenge and represent the HBCU community with pride. Originally reported by HBCU Gameday. If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
 |
Will Moss
Founder & CEO, HBCU CONNECT, LLC Hampton University class of 1995 Member Since June 1999 |
 |
Pittsburgh, Reading, and Scranton will host 'Fan Zones' for soccer fans to enjoy 2026 FIFA World Cup eventsThe Fan Zones will amplify and complement Philadelphia’s 39-day FIFA Fan Festival at Lemon Hill Park — extending the World Cup’s energy and economic impact across PA
Author: Keith Schweigert (FOX ...more
Hija Chang • 206 Views • May 8th, 2026 |
 |
Oura Q&A with Professional Wide Receiver Odell Beckham Jr.Q: How does a bad night of sleep make you feel?
A: “I think when I get bad sleep, my day just doesn’t go smoothly. You wake up feeling groggy. You feel like you’re always trying to find your groove ...more
Hija Chang • 202 Views • May 7th, 2026 |
