As HBCU football fans gear up for the 2025 season, all eyes are on a highly anticipated matchup between two storied programs—Florida A&M University (FAMU) and Howard University. At the heart of this excitement is James Colzie III, head coach of the Florida A&M Rattlers. A Miami native and former Florida State standout, Coach Colzie brings a sharp vision, unwavering focus, and deep Rattler pride as he prepares his team for what promises to be an electric season opener at the Denny’s Orange Blossom Classic.
In an exclusive interview with Revelence Media, Coach Colzie discussed his excitement for the upcoming season, the historic weight of the Orange Blossom Classic, and how pride, legacy, and community continue to fuel the mission of FAMU football.
Revelence: Let’s get into FAMU’s phenomenal football team. The Orange Blossom Classic is taking place during Labor Day Weekend in Miami this year. What does this historic matchup between FAMU and Howard mean to you and the program?
James Colzie III: Historically, it’s hard to imagine the Orange Blossom Classic without Florida A&M. We took a year off, but we’re back. The game has a different energy when we’re in it. Last time, we faced Howard in the Celebration Bowl in 2023 and came out on top. So, this is a rematch. On a personal level, I’m from Miami, and we have about 25 to 30 players from South Florida. So for us, this game is like coming home. Plus, our alumni base down there is strong—it’s going to be electric.
The theme this year is “Built on History. Fueled by Pride.” How does that align with your team’s mission?
It’s the first game of the season, and that always sets the tone. Like the Bayou Classic (Thanksgiving Day football matchup between HBCUs Grambling State University and Southern University) —it doesn’t matter what the records are, it’s a big game. Same with our Florida Classic matchup. For us, after winning the national championship in 2023, not repeating last year felt like we underachieved. So this opener is our chance to reset and start strong.
Facing a respected team like Howard helps us gauge where we are early on. And from a historical perspective, the Orange Blossom Classic is legendary. Names like Coach Hubbard and Coach Gaither built this tradition. I was part of this game as an assistant when we faced Jackson State, and the energy—the alumni, the former players, the fans—it’s unmatched. This game means everything.
FAMU also had players invited to the HBCU Combine. What does that say about the talent coming out of your program, and how has that kind of recognition changed the landscape of recruiting?
It’s always great when you have guys who succeed at the next level. Over the last few years, Florida A&M has put quality players in the NFL—not just as free agents who get cut, but players who are now in their second or third year with teams. We’re also one of the few HBCUs that hosts a Pro Day where scouts actually show up. This year, we had 18 NFL scouts and two CFL scouts. That shows recruits that you can come to FAMU, play football, and make it to the next level. We’ve got guys like Kendall Bowler, Jalen Goss, and Jamari Gassett who are getting real opportunities. As I tell them, it only takes one team to believe in you—and if you handle your business, the rest will follow.
You’ve also lost some key players from last season. How are you rebuilding leadership and chemistry in the locker room?
That’s where the transfer portal helped us. Last year, after winning a championship, we brought new guys in during the summer. This year, knowing who we’d lose, we addressed those needs early—in January. That allowed new players to go through our lifting sessions, 4th quarter drills, and OTAs (off season training academy) together. That kind of shared grind builds unity and tightens bonds. Football’s a 12-week season, but there are 40 other weeks to prepare for those games. Our 95-man roster did everything together starting January 6, which has already paid off in terms of chemistry.
Let’s talk about your legacy. You’re a Miami native who played at powerhouse Florida State. How does it feel to now lead FAMU, especially opening the season back home in Miami Gardens?
Honestly, I feel blessed. My parents did a great job raising me, and I’ve had a lot of people praying for me throughout this journey. To go back home to Miami and be the head coach of the No. 1 HBCU football program in the country—that gives me chills. I know I’ll have butterflies when we hit the field, but at the end of the day, I’ve got to focus on preparing my 105 guys for that opener against Howard. Sentiment aside, the priority is being ready to compete and win.
One thing we can already tell is—you were built for this. How has your own experience as a former Division I athlete shaped how you lead and connect with your team?
I started coaching in 1999 at FIU when the program was just launching. Comparing that coach to who I am today as FAMU’s head coach in 2025—I’ve grown a lot. Players are different now. You can’t coach everyone the same way. These guys learn differently, and before they’ll play for you, they have to trust you. That’s something I’ve learned through my career. I loved my coaches because I believed in them—they had my best interests at heart. Now, that’s how I approach my team. Every day, I talk to players about more than football—about home, their families, their lives. It builds trust, and once they trust you, they’ll go all in.
Last question for you, Coach—finish this sentence: By the time we walk off that field in Miami Gardens on August 30, people will know that FAMU football is…
One and zero (1–0). That’s how we want it. Every week, our goal is to be 1–0. I’ll walk across the field, shake the hand of Howard’s head coach, and wish him good luck—but make no mistake, we’re focused on being 1–0. That’s our mindset, and that’s what people will know about FAMU football!
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