JSU Ground Game Fuels 41-16 Comeback Win vs FAMU

**Tigers Roar Back: Jackson State Overcomes Double-Digit Deficit, Throttles Florida A&M 41-16 in SWAC Showdown**

**JACKSON, Miss.** – The Jackson State Tigers staged a remarkable comeback Saturday, overcoming an early double-digit deficit to thoroughly dominate Florida A&M in the second half, securing a commanding 41-16 victory at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium. The Tigers unleashed 34 unanswered points, propelled by a relentless ground attack and a stifling defense, to improve their record to 3-2 overall and 2-1 in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC).

The highly anticipated SWAC contest, held on October 5, 2024, initially belonged to the visiting Rattlers. Florida A&M, known for their strong offensive capabilities, capitalized on early opportunities, building a respectable 16-7 lead early in the second quarter. Quarterback Jeremy Moussa led the Rattlers to scores, including a long touchdown pass that quieted the home crowd.

However, the momentum dramatically shifted as Jackson State found its rhythm just before halftime, signaling the dramatic turn of events to come. What followed was a complete transformation of the game, showcasing the Tigers’ resilience and strategic adjustments.

The second half saw a completely different Jackson State squad take the field. Head Coach T.C. Taylor’s halftime adjustments were evident as the Tigers’ ground game took complete control, relentlessly pounding the FAMU defense. Running back Ahmad Miller was an unstoppable force, tearing through the Rattlers’ defensive line for an impressive 165 rushing yards and two pivotal touchdowns. Donerio Davenport complemented Miller perfectly, adding 112 yards on the ground and a touchdown of his own. Zyquez Embra also found the end zone with a rushing score, while quarterback Jason Brown efficiently managed the offense and contributed with a touchdown pass, showcasing the team’s balanced attack. The Tigers’ ability to run the ball at will not only consumed the clock but also visibly wore down the Rattlers’ defense.

Equally impressive was Jackson State’s defensive unit. After a shaky start, they completely shut down Florida A&M in the final two quarters, preventing them from adding a single point. The Tigers held FAMU to a paltry 209 total yards for the entire game, a testament to their unwavering intensity and discipline. Their defensive line and linebackers consistently pressured FAMU’s offense, evident in their incredible third-down efficiency, allowing the Rattlers to convert on only 3-of-16 attempts. This defensive stand was crucial in maintaining Jackson State’s unanswered scoring streak.

“I told the guys at halftime that we needed to settle down and play our brand of football,” said Coach T.C. Taylor in the post-game press conference. “They responded with incredible heart and execution. Our offensive line opened up huge lanes, and our backs ran with purpose. And defensively, to hold a potent FAMU offense scoreless in the second half? That’s just outstanding.”

Running back Ahmad Miller echoed his coach’s sentiments. “We knew we were better than what we showed in the first quarter,” Miller commented. “It was about sticking together, trusting our coaches, and just pounding the rock. The O-line did an amazing job, and I just tried to hit the holes hard.” Donerio Davenport added, “The energy on the sideline after we got that first score in the second half was electric. We just fed off of it, and kept pushing.”

This victory holds extra significance as it evens the series for both teams in the SWAC standings, with both Jackson State and Florida A&M now holding identical 3-2 overall and 2-1 conference records. The rivalry between these two storied HBCU programs often delivers high-stakes drama, and this game was no exception to that tradition.

Florida A&M Head Coach Willie Simmons acknowledged his team’s struggles after the break. “Credit to Jackson State, they made adjustments and played with incredible intensity,” Simmons stated. “We just couldn’t find our rhythm offensively in the second half, and they controlled the line of scrimmage in a way we couldn’t counter.”

Looking ahead, Jackson State will aim to continue its momentum as they prepare for a road trip to face Grambling State next Saturday, October 12. Florida A&M will look to rebound as they host Southern University in their next conference matchup.