The Florida A&M University (FAMU) Rattlers have dropped their much-anticipated 2026 football schedule. This year marks the debut season for new head coach Quinn Fordham Gray Sr.
Fans are buzzing. The Rattlers are hoping to make waves under Gray’s leadership, and the schedule is packed with big matchups and a few old scores to settle.
New Beginnings with Quinn Fordham Gray Sr.
Quinn Fordham Gray Sr. steps in as FAMU’s 20th full-time head coach. He brings plenty of experience and a solid winning record.
Before FAMU, Gray led Albany State to a 24-11 record over three seasons. He even took home the 2025 Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) title and the Black College Football National Championship for NCAA Division II.
With that kind of track record, it’s no wonder folks are excited for what’s ahead.
Opening Game: A Reunion with Albany State
The Rattlers open their season at home on August 29, hosting Albany State—Gray’s old squad. That’s got to be a little surreal for him, right?
It’ll all go down on Ken Riley Field at Bragg Memorial Stadium. Emotions will probably run high for this one.
Key Matchups to Watch
Looking at the 2026 schedule, a handful of games really jump out. There are some classic rivalries and a few heavyweight showdowns.
Orange Blossom Classic: Clash with South Carolina State
On September 6, FAMU heads to Miami Gardens for the Orange Blossom Classic. They’ll face South Carolina State at Hard Rock Stadium.
This one’s huge—Labor Day weekend, up against the defending Celebration Bowl and Division I Black College Football National Champs.
Battle with the Miami Hurricanes
Just four days later, FAMU stays in Miami to take on the Miami Hurricanes on September 10. It’s a Thursday night game, again at Hard Rock Stadium.
The Hurricanes were the College Football Playoffs runner-up, so this is a serious test for the Rattlers. National spotlight, too—no pressure.
Renewed Rivalry with Tennessee State
On September 19, FAMU welcomes Tennessee State. These two haven’t faced off since 2017, back in the days of the Atlanta Football Classic.
There’s some real history here, and it’s always a little more fun when HBCUs get to settle things on the field.
Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Showdowns
The 2026 schedule is loaded with SWAC battles that could make or break FAMU’s season. Every one of these games matters for the conference race.
Home Opener Against Alabama A&M
First up in SWAC play: Alabama A&M visits on September 26. It’s a chance for FAMU to make an early statement in the conference.
Road Challenges Against Alabama State and Jackson State
Then it’s two tough road games—Alabama State on October 10, followed by Jackson State on October 17. Not exactly a vacation, but that’s football.
We’ll see how the Rattlers handle the pressure away from home.
Home Stretch: Key SWAC Games
Down the stretch, FAMU hosts Arkansas-Pine Bluff on October 24, Southern on October 31, and Mississippi Valley State on November 14. These games could be the difference between a good season and a great one.
The Florida Classic: A Season Finale to Remember
Everything wraps up with the Florida Classic against Bethune-Cookman on November 21 in Orlando. It’s always a can’t-miss event for FAMU fans.
There’s a lot riding on this game—bragging rights, conference stakes, the whole deal. It just wouldn’t feel right to end the season any other way.
Want the full scoop on the 2026 FAMU Rattlers football schedule? Check out the Tallahassee Democrat.
Conclusion: An Exciting Season Awaits
The 2026 FAMU Rattlers football season is already stirring up excitement. There’s a new head coach at the helm.
The schedule looks tough, maybe even daunting in spots. Still, the roster is packed with talent and hungry players.
Fans can expect some wild games and those heated rivalries that always get the blood pumping. Honestly, who knows—maybe this is the year for a championship run?
Keep an eye out for updates and stories as the season gets underway. You really don’t want to miss what’s coming for FAMU football.
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