Season preview: A look at what 2022 FAMU cornerbacks could lockdown opposing receivers
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Florida A&M transfer nickelback BJ Bohler discusses playing with the Rattlers, outlook for 2021 season.
Rory Sharrock - Tallahassee Democrat
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Let's take a trip to Rattler Island.
The Florida A&M football cornerbacks plan on giving opposing receivers an all-expense paid vacation.
A season ago, the Rattlers tied at one with Jackson State in the SWAC with 13 total interceptions.
Once it's time to strap up and line up against their opponent, the Rattlers defense are looking to emulate the success of 2021 with multiple pick grabbers returning.
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The Bohler Boyz
After transferring from Mercer, the BJ and Kendall Bohler decided to continue being teammates in 2021.
They spent their prep years at Ocoee High School where BJ graduated in 2017 and Kendall commenced in 2019.
A season ago, BJ was once of the leaders of the Rattler secondary, getting 52 tackles, 12 pass breakups, and four interceptions as a junior.
BJ's four picks tied for second in the SWAC and was first on his team in breakups. He also earned All-SWAC First Team Defense honors.
His younger brother, Kendall appeared in eight games and broke up a pass in each one while getting 10 tackles as a sophomore.
As the season approaches, the brethren plan on keeping the Bohler name in good light with their performance on the field.
The depth chart
Kortney Cox is one of the cornerbacks that have returned to FAMU.
In 2021, he played in 10 games and got 26 tackles, three pass breakups, and an interception at corner.
The 5-foot-11 corner could be in play to be one either a starter or rotational player based on his production a season ago as he preps for his junior year.
Timothy Williams, Jr. played ten games and got ten tackles for the Rattlers last season. He'll be a senior once the season begins.
Eric Smith is also returning for his final year at FAMU but didn't get significant playing time a season ago, only checking in for two games.
What could happen
Antwan Collier graduating was a big hit to the Rattler defense, but they have capable athletes to fill the void.
BJ Bohler is basically a lock for his spot on the defense with his consistent production.
At the Orange and Green Spring Game, he started for the orange team with his brother, Kendall on the other side of him. That may point to the duo being the starting corners come Aug. 27 at the University of North Carolina.
Despite being 5-foot-9, BJ most likely will guard the opposing team's best receiver while the 6-foot Kendall takes on the other assignment with his size.
Smith assisted the brothers on defense and lined up at the nickelback position to use his versatility and speed with his 5-foot-9, 175 pound frame for coverage or rushing.
That may be his where he do his dirt at during the season.
Cox will be a solid option at corner after he made his time worth while on the field last season.
Williams is a 6-foot-2 corner and could be a lengthy option for the secondary when needed.
Whatever they decide, the Rattlers want to match or improve on their 13 picks in 12 games.
Gerald Thomas III covers FAMU athletics for the Tallahassee Democrat. Contact him via email at gdthomas@gannett.com or on Twitter @3peatgee.
This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: FAMU Football: Rattlers look to match pick total from last season
