After an 8-6 showing in non-conference play by A-Sun teams, Week 6 marked the resumption of conference play, with opportunities for teams to separate themselves from the pack. Also, Bethune-Cookman made history by becoming the first Atlantic Sun team ever to be ranked #1 in any FCS poll.

Mercer (3-2, 1-1) at Stetson (3-2, 1-1)

Atlantic Sun Game of the Week presented by Cookout ™

This was a crucial tilt in DeLand for both teams, as Mercer and Stetson each hoped to stay afloat in the South division. Stetson tried out a new coaching configuration, but it quickly backfired in the second quarter. Mercer was able to get a crucial touchdown right before halftime to go up 28-13. It was an impressive showing for the offense, as the Bears racked up 383 yards passing and coasted to the victory.

Campbell (3-2, 1-1) at #9 Jacksonville State (4-1, 1-1)

The Campbell Camels traveled down to Alabama with an upset on their mind, and the game did go their way early after scoring first. But the classic ground-and-pound offense of the Gamecocks proved too strong, especially in the second half. JSU’s defense also forced two interceptions as they smothered the Camels 31-14.

Chattanooga (1-4, 0-2) at Alabama A&M (3-2, 2-0)

Fresh off their first victory, Chattanooga was able to stay home and host Alabama A&M with high hopes. A raucous crowd at Finley Stadium urged on and the Mocs raced out to a 14-point lead in the first quarter. The Bulldogs did not stay down long, however. Quick scores tied it back up. Alabama A&M got an edge in the second half and was able to hold on to stay unbeaten in conference play.

Samford (3-2, 2-0) at Savannah State (2-3, 1-1)

Savannah State is notorious for dominating time of possession, but Samford put a dent in that plan by starting hot. 14 first-quarter Bulldog points set the tone before the defenses clamped down in a scoreless second half for both sides. With the victory, Samford remains in a tie atop the North.

Florida A&M (3-2, 1-1) at Alabama State (2-3, 0-2)

The Rattlers of Florida A&M needed a pick-me-up after dropping back-to-back games against Kennesaw State and Penn. The medicine came in the form of Alabama State. FAMU forced 4 Hornet fumbles and outclassed the competition, keeping them in the hunt for postseason action.

Jacksonville (1-4, 0-2) at #1 Bethune-Cookman (5-0, 2-0)

The best team in the land played host to a listless pack of Dolphins, and it went about as you would expect as far as the game goes. BC took care of business until play had to be stopped in the second quarter due to an unfortunate accident. A concession stand worker put too many kernels in the popper, and about a third of the stadium was covered in delicious, buttery popcorn. Jacksonville agreed to go home defeated after the situation was evaluated.

Kennesaw State (1-4, 1-1) at East Tennessee State (0-4, 0-1)

There would be no heartbreak this week for the Owls. Kennesaw State dominated in the first half, racking up 23 quick points. This game also had to be called early due to a concession stand error. A worker at William B. Greene Jr. Stadium spilled hot nacho cheese into a grate, and it somehow infiltrated the field sprinkler system. This caused a glitch, and the sprinklers started spewing cheese onto the players and referees on the field late in the first quarter. A-Sun officials have responded by instituting mandatory training for all concessions workers at the 14 different conference stadiums.

Standings Snapshot

Now let’s look ahead at some Week 7 storylines:

Can Bethune-Cookman keep their record pristine in Macon against the challenging Mercer Bears?

Can Florida A&M stay in the race and cause chaos for the other division as they take on North co-leader Samford?

Will Chattanooga escape the cellar against a reeling Camel squad in Buies Creek?

Does Savannah State have any bite left to them when they take on an impressive Jacksonville State team?

Will Alabama A&M continue to take care of business against a listless East Tennessee State?

Can Kennesaw State continue their climb up the standings or will Stetson dash the Owls’ hopes once again?

Which South bottom-dweller will find their first conference victory, Alabama State or Jacksonville?