FAMU VS Howard Celebration Bowl 2023
In a gridiron spectacle set to shake the foundations of Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 16, the HBCU National Championship game, better known as the Cricket Celebration Bowl, will witness the Howard Bison and Florida A&M Rattlers face off in a historic showdown.
Howard’s Historic Journey to the Celebration Bowl
For Howard University, this marks a historic moment as they enter the Celebration Bowl for the first time in school history. Their triumphant journey saw them secure a spot after a hard-fought 14-7 victory over Morgan State. Finishing the season with a 6-5 overall record and an impressive 4-1 record in the MEAC, the Bison, under the leadership of football maestro Larry Scott, are ready to etch their names in the annals of HBCU football history.
Scott, a finalist for the prestigious 2023 Eddie Robinson Award, outlines the Bison’s game plan for success. According to him, it’s about taking care of the football, dominating on third down, and forcing the Rattlers into uncomfortable situations. Scott emphasizes the importance of dictating the pace, playing with physicality, and excelling in situational football.
FAMU’s Dominance in the SWAC
Florida A&M Rattlers, 8-0 in SWAC and 11-1 overall, head to the Celebration Bowl undefeated. Riding a wave of success with 10 consecutive victories since a September loss to the University of South Florida, the Rattlers boast a multi-faceted rushing attack in Terrell Jennings and Kelvin Dean.
Quarterback Jeremy Moussa boosts FAMU’s offense with 2,690 passing yards, 19 touchdowns, and seven interceptions. The Rattlers’ defense, spearheaded by Anthony Dunn Jr. and Gentle Hunt, with five sacks each, plus defensive backs Eric Smith and Javan Morgan, poses a formidable challenge for the Bison.
Coaches’ Strategies and Key Players
Coach Willie Simmons says it is establishing the run, controlling the line of scrimmage, and securing first downs. Defensively, the Rattlers aim to stifle Howard’s dynamic running game and eliminate big plays.
On the other side, Coach Scott emphasizes Howard’s need to control the football, excel on critical downs, and convert red zone opportunities into touchdowns. The clash promises to be a strategic battle, where situational football prowess will be the key to victory.
FAMU & Howard By the Numbers
Diving into the numbers, Florida A&M’s offensive averaging 30.7 points per game and scoring an average of 4.0 touchdowns. The Rattlers’ defense has been equally impressive, conceding a mere average of 14.3 points per game.
In contrast, Howard’s balanced offense, averaging 28.7 points per game, faces the challenge of a robust Rattlers defense. With 196.2 pass yards per game, Quarterback Quinton Williams leads Howard’s charge.
The Celebration Beyond the Game
Beyond the gridiron clash, the Celebration Bowl promises a spectacle for fans. The halftime event features a Battle of the Bands between the FAMU Marching 100 and Howard’s Showtime Marching Band. Countdown to History
The clash between Howard and FAMU transcends the realm of football, symbolizing the resilience, skill, and spirit of HBCU athletes. As the stage is set, the HBCU community and football enthusiasts will be glued to the Cricket Celebration Bowl. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this historic moment!
