Jags' Mathis: Bethune-Cookman can't let guard down in Florida Classic

DAYTONA BEACH, Florida  --  Rashean Mathis has some advice for his alma mater.

According to Mathis, a former Bethune-Cookman standout turned Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback, the Wildcats (8-2, 7-0) do not want to underestimate Florida A&M (4-6, 4-3) heading into Saturday's Florida Classic. The game is scheduled to kick off at 2 p.m. at the Citrus Bowl in Orlando.

“In a game like that, records don't matter,” Mathis said in front his locker at Everbank Field in Jacksonville following his team's Thursday night, 27-10, loss to the Indianapolis Colts. “I'm sure the coaches will be preaching the same thing. The atmosphere of the game gets everyone ready to play so if you're undefeated or defeated it doesn't matter in that game because the emotions are going and the rivalry stands strong.”

Mathis was a second-round pick by the Jaguars in 2003. He said he still pays attention to Bethune-Cookman football and is excited about the way the team has played this season.

“They have done an awesome, awesome job,” Mathis said. “Ever since the new coaching staff came in, they have been doing a tremendous job.”

READ MORE