FAMU vs. Howard: Clash of Titans in the Orange Blossom Classic!

FAMU vs. Howard: Clash of Titans in the Orange Blossom Classic!

This Saturday promises to bring excitement to Miami Gardens as Florida A&M (FAMU) faces off against Howard University in the highly anticipated Orange Blossom Classic. Set for August 30th at 4 p.m. on ESPNU, this game is more than just another season opener; it’s a rematch of the thrilling 2023 Black College Football National Championship, where FAMU clinched victory with a close score of 30-26 against Howard. With such a rich history between these teams, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

According to Tallahassee.com, FAMU’s head coach James Colzie III is entering his second season, while Howard’s Larry Scott leads his team into the fifth season under his guidance. Last year, FAMU achieved a solid 7-5 overall record and fought hard with a 5-3 finish in the Southwestern Athletic Conference. In contrast, Howard’s 2024 season was a struggle, finishing with a 4-8 record, having won the league title just two years in a row prior. How will these teams rebound and redefine their seasons? The Orange Blossom Classic may hold the answers.

The Key Players

One player to keep an eye on is Howard’s Eden James, the standout running back and son of NFL Hall of Famer Edgerrin James. Since joining the team in 2022, Eden has established himself as a pivotal part of Howard’s offense. As noted by HBCU Gameday, he accumulated 570 total yards in the previous season, showcasing his versatility with both rushing and receiving yards. This includes a fantastic game against Hampton, where he rushed for 107 yards and topped it off with a touchdown on just 14 carries.

James’s notable performance and achievements, including a position on the East-West Shrine Bowl 1000 list and preseason All-MEAC First Team honors, underscore the expectations for him this season. With questions looming over how FAMU’s defense, which ranked 83rd in rushing defense last season, will contain such a dynamic playmaker, Eden looks poised to create significant impact. What’s intriguing is the fresh energy surrounding FAMU’s defensive coordinator, Kenwick Thompson, who will need to sharpen the defense to neutralize James’s potential.

On FAMU’s side, all eyes are on their first-time starting quarterback, RJ Johnson III. Coming from Westlake High School, where he posted an impressive completion rate of 66%, Johnson has a reputation to uphold. His performance in this high-pressure opener could be pivotal, especially with the Florida heat expected to reach a sweltering 88 degrees, a factor that might influence Howard’s gameplay, which adapts to a cooler D.C. climate.

A Game to Remember

The match will also provide a platform for Howard to reclaim its former glory and live up to the reputation built prior to last season. Howard is aiming to rise in the standings within the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference, and Coach Scott’s experience will be vital as they tackle FAMU.

In addition to the immediate implications for both teams, this matchup has broader significance as NFL scouts will undoubtedly be watching closely. The interest in Eden James, alongside his father’s impressive legacy, reflects the increasing recognition of HBCU football players in the professional realm, as highlighted by recent discussions about NFL player cuts and the performance of former HBCU athletes in professional football.

The Orange Blossom Classic might just be the showcase that both FAMU and Howard need. With its rich history, memorable matchups, and the excitement built around standout athletes, this weekend promises to deliver not only an entertaining game but a chance for these teams to start their season on a high note.

Stay tuned for great football action!