TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (Aug. 11) - The Florida A&M Rattlers went through another day of acclimation in preparation for the season.  As all of Coach Joe Taylor's practices start with special teams, kickoff return was the featured aspect.  Punt retuen was also emphasized during the session.

All-MEAC punter Brandon Holdren, is showing that he has the experience and focus to continue to be a weapon for the Rattlers.  During the drill, a pleased coach Taylor said, "The game is all about field position."  Watching Holdren direct his punting in the various directions special teams coach Juan Vasquez barked out, was impressive to Taylor.  "We've got a solid kicking game and a great coach directing them," Taylor said of Vasquez.

In segment drills, coordinators Lawrence Kershaw (offense) and Earl Holmes (defense) are expanding the packages the team is executing.

Offensively, players are running packages, preparing for the Sept. 3 opener against Ft. Valley State University in Bragg Stadium.  The depth of the Rattlers is evident as several positions had multiple players rotating in and out in drills.  Quarterback Austin Trainor is looking like a seasoned veteran, running the offense with confidence.  Freshmen quarterbacks Dane James and Damien Fleming are looking poised to compete for the backup role.  Each has shown the skill set that made them high priorities for the Rattler recruiters.

Defensively, there is tight competition at virtually every spot.  There won't be any separation in these positions until the pads come on next week.  The defensive leaders, Jerry Willis, Alvis Graham and Demarius Folsom, look poised to direct the team.  There is stiff competition at the defensive back position for the Rattlers as All-American Qier Hall and NFL draft pick Curtis Holcomb are being replaced at the cornerback position.

The Rattlers will go through a workout at 10 a.m. on Saturday morning in preparation for Media Day and Fan Day.