Florida A&M University yesterday announced a new halftime show format for the upcoming football season. Rattler fans will still be able to hear longtime PA Joe Bullard, but in place of the Marching 100, fans will be treated to DJ battles and an slate of known artists throughout the season. From the release:

The FAMU Athletics program takes on a brand new energy this season unveiling a new theme – “Our Team, Our Time. Respect the Game.”  In addition to the new theme, each game this season includes a halftime entertainment production that includes the voice of FAMU football, Joe Bullard, serving as game MC and an Old School vs. New School DJ set to keep fans excited and energized throughout the entire game. The halftime segment for each game is tight lipped for now but fans can expect special performances from major recording artists and a contest to win a meet and greet with the artists.

The release gives no hint about the artists that may appear at FAMU home games, but the potential for celebrity star power on campus is a nice attempt at dulling the impact of the band’s suspension. Students and alums won’t forget about the band regarded among the world’s best, but bragging rights will still be a weekend staple in Tallahassee this fall; especially if FAMU can get popular rappers or R&B acts to take the field throughout the season.

This season’s halftime festivities will be the most anticipated in the school’s history, and people will show up just to see what or who FAMU puts out for its replacement show.

Florida A&M University