Scouting FAMU Special Teams

Purdue transfer Al-Terek McBurse is a dangerous return man for FAMU (Picture: www.miamifansite.com)

Time to take a look at the FAMU special teams. USF has been quiet in the return game to start the season but will be looking to get it started against the Rattler units. Here are some of the names to watch out for on Saturday night (special teams can always make something happen).

Senior Trevor Scott (6-2 200-pounds) is the place kicker for the Rattlers. He is just 1 for 2 on the season with his limited chances so far. He has a lot of experience and is also the kick-off specialist, totaling one touchback on the season, so USF should be able to get the ball with decent field position and maybe Lamar can get something going in the return game.

Junior Branden Holden (6-2 240-pounds) is the starting punter. He is averaging 40.1 yards per kick (fairly average) with a long of 49 yards on the season. He doesn't have a big leg, but places kicks well and will try to keep the ball away from T-Rex and help win the battle of field position.

Junior defensive back Jerral Stewart (5-9 171-pounds) is the leading punt return man for the Rattlers. He has 3 returns for 28 yards on the season (not that explosive yet). Junior wide receiver Jeremy Tillman (5-11 188-pounds) is the other return man. He has 6 returns for 41 yards for the Rattlers as they continue to look for a spark on special teams.

Junior running back Al-Terek McBurse (5-11 205-pounds) has 6 kick returns for 117 yards on the season, showing great ability to get up field when he gets his chances. Senior wide receiver Lashad Tookes (5-8 163-pounds) is another speedy return man that has 5 returns for 80 yards. Both of these players will have to be watched during the game.

Overall, FAMU has a solid team, nothing big and nothing bad at this point. They have solid kickers, hitting a solid average in the punt game. They also have solid return players that will have to be watched during the game and help USF win the battle.  I think USF has the better overall units, should be able to wrap up any of their returns and get a few big returns of their own.