Friday, October 5, 2007

FAMU Rattlers rally behind Camel

Photo: FAMU QB Leon Camel rolls out to pass in TSU game last week.

By St. Clair Murraine, DEMOCRAT STAFF WRITER

As surprising as the departure of Albert Chester II was as quarterback of FAMU's football team earlier this week, the move doesn't seem to have affected the Rattlers offense. After spending the last hour of Thursday's practice watching film following a downpour, the players emerged pumped full of enthusiasm.

Coach Rubin Carter said the offense is ready to complete the season with senior walk-on Leon Camel under center. Eddie Battle will be the backup, Carter said.

“Everybody wants to rally behind (Camel); just give him that confidence that he needs to win,” said senior wide receiver Willie Hayward, who walked on with Camel four years ago. “It (Chester's departure) wasn't disruptive, but we had to adjust real quickly and be focused for the upcoming game.”

FAMU plays Winston-Salem State in the Circle City Classic in Indianapolis. Chester said Tuesday that he wouldn't continue to quarterback the team because of multiple injuries.

That opened the door for Camel, who became Chester's backup last season. He started the Miami game.

Camel has completed 9 of 23 passes for 115 yards in two games this season. He scored one touchdown, which came last weekend when he came on in the third quarter to lead FAMU to an 18-17 win.

“The offense is basically in for the game,” he said. “I feel real good about playing. I'm not nervous or anything. It's football. I've been doing it for a while. I'm ready to get in and have some fun.”

FAMU vs. Winston-Salem St., 4 p.m. on NFL Network, WHBX (96.1 FM).

Photo: Leon Camel,#16 celebrates with Willie Hayward after running for a second half touchdown. The Florida A&M football team takes on Winston Salem State on Saturday in the Circle City Classic.

No comments: