Jackson State football coach T.C. Taylor wasted no time in putting his identity on the team. In his first season, has transformed the team away from hearing the word “soft” when its name is mentioned. Now, new adjectives are being used to describe its team, such as “dominant” and “physical.”
One week after opening Taylor’s tenure with a 37-7 victory against MEAC member South Carolina State, the Tigers begin their quest to score a third consecutive Southwestern Athletic Conference championship. If it is to happen, JSU again must get past Florida A&M, its East Division rival. The teams meet in the Disney Orange Blossom Classic on Sunday (2 p.m., ESPN2) at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.
Since the rivalry has resumed in 2021, Jackson State has had offensive guru and FAMU coach William Simmons stymied.
The Rattlers have not been able to score a touchdown in the past two games, falling 7-6 in 2021 and 59-3 in 2022. Both games have led to Jackson State going undefeated in SWAC play, along with winning the East and the SWAC in consecutive seasons.
Jackson State football vs. Florida A&M game time today, TV and betting info
- KICKOFF: 2 p.m.
- TV: ESPN
- BETTING ODDS: Jackson State by 4.5
FINAL: Florida A&M 28, Jackson State 10
INSTANT REACTION:Jackson State football overwhelmed by FAMU. Here are three takeaways.
HALFTIME: Florida A&M 28, Jackson State 0
All three phases are contributing to JSU’s big deficit at halftime in Miami. The special teams allowed the opening kickoff return TD, a blocked field goal and a 45-yard punt return that set up A&M’s fourth touchdown. The offense has struggled to produce big plays. And while the defense has been put in some tough situations, Florida A&M rushed for 98 yards in the first half.
First half
Florida A&M scores to go up 21-0 after recovering strip-sack fumble
Source : Clarion Ledger
