The Ramsay Rams showcased an explosive new-look offense and a stingy defense Friday night, defeating the Mae Jemison Jaguars 18-14 in an exciting spring football matchup at Alabama A&M University.

The Rams took advantage early with an aggressive air attack under offensive coordinator Beniko Harley. QB Davey Lawrence connected with Mitchell Orr on a 48-yard touchdown strike to give Ramsay an early 6-0 lead and set the tone for the evening. Ramsay struck again in the second quarter when quarterback Champion Rogers connected with Colin Craver on a 63-yard touchdown bomb, extending the Rams’ momentum and helping close the gap to 14-12 heading into halftime.

In the second half, Ramsay leaned on its running game and defense to secure the victory. RB Justin Merchant broke free for a 48-yard touchdown run in the third quarter, putting the Rams ahead for good at 18-14.All Rams quarterbacks showed promise throughout the contest, moving the offense downfield and displaying the growth of Ramsay’s newly established passing attack. The offense consistently created explosive plays, with numerous passing threats emerging including TE/WR Caleb Billups. The running game was a compliment to the air-strikes and neutralized the Jags defense. 

Defensively, the Rams were equally impressive under defensive coordinator Andre Robinson. The Rams’ front seven depth stymied the Jaguars offense throughout the night with several sacks, tackles for loss, and qb pressures. The secondary challenged Jags receievers with consistent pass breakups and tackling. The defense was anchored by several standout playmakers, including DT Karols May, LB Chase Holt, and defensive backs Ethan Johnson and Kingston Reed. Ramsay’s defense also forced two critical turnovers that shifted momentum in the game — one fumble recovery and a momentum-stopping interception by DB Jaycob Akinsanya that helped seal the victory.

Head Coach Jackson praised the team’s growth and effort following the win.

“I’m proud of the way our guys competed tonight,” Jackson said. “We showed growth offensively with our ability to stretch the field and make explosive plays, and defensively our effort and physicality stood out all night. Spring games are about evaluation, toughness, and building chemistry, and I believe this team took a major step forward. Our fans and community brought great energy, and we’re excited about what’s ahead this fall.”

The showcase atmosphere at Alabama A&M University also provided an opportunity for players from both programs to perform in front of current coaches and college recruiters evaluating future talent and potential program fits.

The team will now shift its focus toward summer workouts and fall camp. Ramsay opens the 2026 season against the Jackson-Olin Mustangs on Aug. 20 in the Annual Stop the Violence Classic.