By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Alabama State opened Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) play in dominating fashion Saturday, rolling past Florida A&M 42-14 at Bragg Memorial Stadium to snap a five-game skid in the rivalry.
The Hornets (3-1, 1-0 SWAC) scored on the ground and through the air, piling up 405 total yards while holding the Rattlers (1-3, 0-1) to just six points through three quarters.
Running back Marcus Harris II powered the offense with three rushing touchdowns, while Jamarie Hostzclaw added 135 yards on 22 carries. Quarterback Andrew Body threw for 106 yards and two touchdowns, both to Jalen Jones, who hauled in scoring grabs of four and 39 yards.
Alabama State seized control early with a 13-play opening drive capped by Harris’ two-yard run. After FAMU cut the deficit to 14-6, the Hornets answered with back-to-back touchdowns in the third quarter. Harris’ third score and a late 27-yard run by J.R. Gardner sealed the win.
Florida A&M managed 309 yards of offense but failed to convert key chances, going 1-for-5 on fourth downs. Quarterback R.J. Johnson III passed for 133 yards and a late touchdown to Miles Campbell, while Thad Franklin Jr. ran for 75 yards.
On defense, Alabama State was led by Deonte Morris, Rhoody Jean-Louis, and Jalil Lenore, each finishing with five tackles.
The Hornets return home Saturday for Homecoming, hosting Bethune-Cookman at 2 p.m. inside ASU Stadium.