Alabama A&M Aims for Comeback Victory at Grambling State
The Alabama A&M University football team aims for a comeback victory at Grambling State this Saturday. The matchup is part of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) and is set to kick off at 2 p.m. from the Eddie G. Robinson Memorial Stadium. This contest marks the 32nd meeting between these teams since their first encounter in 1989.
Game Preview
Alabama A&M enters the game with a record of 4-4 overall and 1-3 in SWAC play. They are looking to recover from a significant loss last weekend, where they fell to Alabama State with a score of 56-13 at the Amazon Magic City Classic. In contrast, Grambling State, holding a record of 5-3 and 2-2 in the conference, comes off a surprising victory against the ranked Jackson State, winning 26-24 in the Last Vegas Classic.
Broadcast Information
The game will be live-streamed on SWAC TV, featuring play-by-play commentary from Santoria Black and analyst Ossie Clark. Fans can also listen on WJAB (90.9 FM), where Maurice Brooks will handle play-by-play, alongside Thai Floyd as an analyst. Evan Hayes and Chauncy Sanders will provide pregame and postgame coverage.
Coaching Insights
Alabama A&M’s head coach, Sam Shade, emphasized the importance of securing a winning season. He acknowledged Grambling’s recent success and the efforts of their head coach, Mickey Joseph, stating, “They are playing well after coming off a big win over Jackson State.” This game will showcase two first-year head coaches, with both teams likely to start backup quarterbacks.
Team Records and Statistics
- Alabama A&M: Lost three out of last four games, with the recent defeat to Alabama State.
- Kicker David Faulk: Perfect on field goals this season (4-for-4).
- Quarterback Eric Handley: Named to the STATS Perform Jerry Rice Award Watch List, questionable for Saturday.
- Defensive Rankings: Fourth in FCS for fourth down conversion percentage defense.
- Grambling State: Won back-to-back games against Arkansas-Pine Bluff and Jackson State.
- Kicker Josh McCormick: Sealed upset victory with a 44-yard field goal.
- Defensive Performance: Top-ranked for blocked punts allowed, strong in forced fumbles and interceptions.
Historical Context
The teams have a storied rivalry, with Grambling State leading the series 22-9. In their last ten encounters, Alabama A&M holds a slightly better record at 4-6. Both teams have a tendency for close games, with several contests decided by three points or less.
Keys to Victory
- Alabama A&M must protect the offensive line.
- Winning the turnover battle will be crucial for success.
- Avoiding excessive penalties is necessary for a competitive edge.
What’s Next?
Following this game, Alabama A&M will return home to face Prairie View A&M on November 8. This will be the Salute to Service game at Louis Crews Stadium. The Bulldogs look to improve on their historical performance against the Panthers, as they are currently 8-10 all-time in this series.
