FAMU starting roles solidified on offense and defense

Rory Sharrock
Tallahassee Democrat

In conjunction with the onset of the 2019 season, rattlernews.com presents FAMU Football 30 for 30. This daily series includes commentary, analysis and information of the Rattlers during fall camp. The 30 days of reporting serves as a prelude to the FAMU-UCF game on Thursday, Aug. 29 in Orlando. Day 23 of 30: FAMU starting positions solidified

The equal distribution of talent at Florida A&M on both sides of the football is the chief reason for high expectations in 2019.

When camp began on Aug. 2, the coaching staff had a strong notion of solidified starters. With opening night at UCF taking place next week, the original first-team players are still intact. 

"Being that we have a game in eight days, we had to start making some decisions about the guys we feel give us the best chance to be successful," head coach Willie Simmons said. 

"There were some good position battles throughout the spring that carried over to fall camp. We're on practice 19. After this many practices, guys have distanced themselves from the rest. We have a much deeper team than we've had in the past."

Ryan Stanley remains entrenched as the signal-caller for FAMU. He hopes to close his career as the all-time leader in passing yards.

FAMU quarterback Ryan Stanley drops back to pass during the first day of practice on Friday, Aug. 2, 2019.

Stanley's upfront protection was a potential question mark. The answer of size and depth was answered with the addition of former Under Armor All-American right tackle Calvin Ashley.

His current playing status is pending based on medical clearance. While he waits for approval, he is spending time with teammates watching film and attending meetings.

The Rattlers will use a running back by committee rotation every week. Their embarrassment of riches includes preseason All-MEAC players Bishop Bonnett and DeShawn Smith. 

During last weekend's scrimmage, the rushing touchdowns were posted by Bo Kendrick and Eddie Tillman.

FAMU's combo of Bonnett, Smith, Kendrick, Tillman, Ricky Henrilus and Terrell Jennings will get their touches. Currently, Bonnet is the leader in the clubhouse as the first-string back.

FAMU running back Bishop Bonnett dashes off with the ball during the first day of practice on Friday, Aug. 2, 2019.

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The starting wide receivers are the same group which abused defensive backs in 2018.

Chad Hunter, Marcus Williams, Xavier Smith and Azende Rey collectively led the MEAC with 157 receptions for 1,927 yards and 15 scores. They're now on a mission to rank as the top receiving crew in the nation.

In 2018, tight end was the weak spot for FAMU.

The squad upgraded at the position by signing two top-rate recruits from high school. This targeting has proven to be a solid return on investment.

Local freshman Kamari Young from Godby High School is the first-string tight end. His wide size and soft hands make him an ideal fit in the offense. 

Young rose to the occasion by performing well while upperclassmen fought through injuries.

"This is a humbling experience. Guys went down with injuries early in camp. I got in there and tried to get as many reps as I could. I've been getting my reps and familiar with the playbook," Young said.

FAMU's defense is stout from the interior line to the backfield. 

There was a huge void at defensive end left by All-MEAC and BOXTOROW HBCU All-American Antonio Miller.

Demetrius Powell is a strong player who has performed well in the starter's role. Cameron Burton has also thrown his weight around as the other defensive end.

The linebackers are once again led by Elijah Richardson and Derrick Mayweather.

FAMU linebacker Derrick Mayweather bulldozes his way through to make a hit on a running back in practice.

Terry Jefferson continues to do damage against the run and pass as the nickelback. 

The biggest changes are in the secondary with transfer Markquese Bell anchoring the safety position. 

Bell is a former Under Armour All-American who joined the team last semester. He first played at Maryland and then Coffeyville Community College.

Cornerback Eric Smith played as a starter during spring camp. The redshirt freshman from Miami has maintained his role in August.

Sophomore Herman Jackson was the shutdown corner on the opposite end of the ball. Unfortunately, he will miss the entire season due to an ACL injury. The preseason All-MEAC player suffered the ailment on a special teams drill.

FAMU cornerback Troy Hilton (left) and safety Markquese Bell will start in the defensive backfield to begin the season.

Jackson's suitable replacement is Troy Hilton. 

Before the injury, Hilton was seeing action with the first-string players. This quality time makes for a relatively smooth transition for the 6'3" cornerback to compete with the starters on a full-time basis.

"I've been preparing for this my whole college career," Hilton said. "The opportunity presented itself. It wasn't the ideal situation, but I prepared myself so I'm ready. I've been competing for a starting job all camp." 

Follow FAMU beat writer Rory Sharrock on Twitter @rattlernews and @married2game1