Florida A&M Rattlers wrapped up their preseason training camp on Aug. 22 with an open scrimmage at Bragg Memorial Stadium in Tallahassee, Florida, using the session to drill situational football and test reaction over pre‑planned thinking.
The defensive unit seized the moment, forcing multiple turnovers; safety Daylyn Ditson intercepted a pass, and the secondary generated several takeaways that underscored the team’s aggressive approach under first‑year head coach Quinn Fordham Gray Sr.
On offense, the Rattlers displayed explosiveness, highlighted by wide receiver Kieren Jackson’s 70‑yard touchdown catch and a strong receiving score from Armand Burris, while running back Jamal Hailey added a dynamic kickoff return that illustrated depth at skill positions.
Defensive Dominance and Offensive Explosiveness
Quarterback Isaiah Knowles, who has been working to cement his role, expressed confidence that the team’s trajectory is improving across all three phases, noting that the coaching staff will lock in the Week 0 starting lineup after evaluating the mock game results on Aug. 23.
The Rattlers open the 2026 season on Aug. 29 at 7 p.m. against Albany State University, a matchup that will stream on SWAC TV and HBCU GO, and the schedule also includes high‑profile road games at Miami Gardens’ Hard Rock Stadium and contests against South Carolina State and Tennessee State later in the year.
Coach Gray’s Vision
Gray emphasized that position battles were settled during the scrimmage, giving the staff clarity on starter selections and allowing the team to focus on refining execution as they head into game week.
With a full slate that features marquee venues and broadcast partners, the Rattlers are positioned to showcase the program’s resurgence on national HBCU platforms, aiming to extend a winning streak that has seen them defeat Albany State in each of the past three seasons.
The upcoming opener against Albany State will serve as the first test of the Rattlers’ preparation, and a strong performance could set the tone for a season that promises to be competitive within the SWAC and beyond.