In the SWAC, Willie Simmons has an impressive record of 19 wins and only 2 losses since joining the conference. During the first quarter, the Rattlers impressed their Homecoming crowd by scoring 14 points, with Terrell Jennings making a run and Nicholas Dixon catching a 36-yard reception.
In the second quarter, the Panthers managed to reduce the Rattlers’ lead to 7 points through a 21-yard touchdown reception by Trejon Spiller. However, Prairie View missed an opportunity to tie the score before halftime when Trazon Connley threw an interception in the red zone. Moussa then made a precise pass to Jeremiah Pruitte for a touchdown, giving the Rattlers a 21-7 lead at halftime.
In the second half, the Rattlers extended their lead with a 52-yard pass from Moussa to Jah’Marae Sheread, a field goal by Cameron Gillis, a six-yard touchdown by Kelvin Dean, and an 82-yard interception return for a touchdown by Tevin Griffey. The Rattlers’ defense, known as the Dark Cloud Defense, was effective against the Panthers, with three sacks, three quarterback hits, and numerous pressures.
The game ended with FAMU winning 45-7. Prairie View will need to address their mistakes and errors to have a chance against Arkansas-Pine Bluff and Southern and compete in the SWAC West.
The Rattlers will use the next game to refine their strategy before hosting the 2023 SWAC Football Championship Game at Bragg Memorial Stadium in Tallahassee.