FINAL
41 
38 MVP
GAME LEADERS
1 TD, 1 INT
1 TD, 1 INT
3 TD
3 TD
1 TD
November 23, 2024
n one of the most explosive and dramatic chapters in Florida Classic history, Florida A&M outlasted Bethune-Cookman, 41–38, in a back-and-forth thriller at Camping World Stadium. Behind a monster performance from MVP Thad Franklin, Jr., the Rattlers survived a fourth-quarter shootout to claim victory.
FAMU opened strong, riding Franklin’s physical running to an early 10–7 lead after his first touchdown and a Cameron Gillis field goal. But Bethune-Cookman responded with big-play electricity, highlighted by Maleek Huggins’ 77-yard punt return touchdown and later a 56-yard scoring strike from Cam Ransom.
The Wildcats carried a 21–17 advantage late in the second quarter before Daniel Richardson found J. Gassett for a 12-yard touchdown, giving the Rattlers a 17–14 lead at halftime.
The second half erupted into an offensive showcase. After BCU briefly pulled ahead 24–20 on a Carter Hechter field goal, Franklin punched in a 2-yard touchdown and Gillis added a 31-yard field goal to push FAMU ahead 30–24. Franklin then delivered the play of the game—a spectacular 70-yard touchdown run that extended the lead to 37–24 early in the fourth quarter.
Bethune-Cookman refused to go away. Dennis Palmer, who had a career day of his own, powered in two late touchdowns as part of a 178-yard, three-score effort, trimming the margin to 41–38 after Kelvin Dean answered with an 11-yard touchdown run for FAMU.
The Wildcats had one final possession, but the Rattler defense held firm, forcing a turnover on downs near midfield to seal the win.
Franklin was the difference-maker from start to finish, rushing for 195 yards and three touchdowns on 26 carries. Richardson provided steady balance, completing 14 of 20 passes for 180 yards and a score. Quan Lee led FAMU’s receivers with 79 yards.
Huggins starred for BCU with 177 receiving yards and two total touchdowns, while Ransom threw for 196 yards and Palmer carried 37 times in a workhorse performance.
In a rivalry defined by momentum swings and emotional intensity, the 2024 edition delivered another instant classic—one that will long be remembered for its offensive fireworks and a statement performance by Franklin.