HBCU Football: Can Florida A&M contend in first year in the SWAC?

Can the defense contain the passing attacks in the SWAC?

All-American safety Markquese Bell anchors the Rattlers’ defense. In 2019, Bell led the MEAC with five interceptions and is a legit NFL prospect. What about the rest of the defense? In addition to Bell, defensive lineman Renaldo Flowers was named the All-SWAC preseason team.

Flowers also led the Rattlers in tackles for loss (9) and sacks (4.5). Tennessee transfer Savion Williams will help the FAMU defensive line. FAMU has to find some pass rush to contend with the likes of Aqeel Glass and Ryan Nettles, however.

The Rattlers need to keep opponents out of the endzone if they want to compete in the loaded SWAC East. FAMU allowed nearly 30 points per game in MEAC play in 2019. Florida A&M gave up 30 points or more four times in conference play. Though they won those games, the defense has to improve if they want to compete in the SWAC.

Frankly, the Rattlers will not be able to outscore everyone in the SWAC as they did in the MEAC. The primary reason is their record-setting quarterback is gone and they have to break in a new one. Second, they are facing some physical defenses that they did not have to worry about in the MEAC.