Eyeing defensive upgrade, FAMU has conference title aspirations

TALLAHASSE, Florida -- Florida A&M coach Alex Wood knows what it takes to improve. And it will only come with progress on defense.

The Rattlers gave up 39 or more points in four of their 10 games against FCS opponents. FAMU was somehow quite good against the pass, ranking fifth nationally, yet allowed 223 rushing yards per game (105th in the FCS).

“We’ll be exciting, colorful, explosive and play good defense,” Wood said. “To win a championship, you have to play really good defense.”

Wood is right. And just the fact that the Rattlers are discussing the prospects of winning a Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference title is also a significant point. FAMU last won a MEAC championship in 2010, when it shared a piece of the title. Seven years and three coaching changes later, there is optimism for the future as FAMU tries to build on a 4-7 season.

FAMU returns its leading tailback and two top receivers.

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