Old Dominion University (ODU) football team turned a challenging season around with a narrow victory over Appalachian State, clinching a 24-21 win on October 25. This victory not only marked a significant moment in their campaign but also assured them of a bowl game and kept their hopes alive for a historic season.
With just over a minute left in the game, ODU wide receiver Ja’Cory Thomas made a pivotal play by recovering an onside kick that sealed the Monarchs’ fate. This moment highlighted a turning point for ODU, who now holds a record of 7-3 and 4-2 in the Sun Belt Conference. As they prepare to face Georgia Southern on Saturday, December 2, the Monarchs are eyeing their second ten-win season in program history.
Recovery and Resilience
Prior to the game against Appalachian State, ODU’s season had been marked by a mix of dominant performances and unexpected setbacks. Aside from the narrow victory, the team enjoyed significant wins against schools like North Carolina Central, Virginia Tech, and Troy, often winning by wide margins. However, they faced considerable challenges with two lopsided losses to Marshall (48-24) and James Madison (63-27) that raised doubts about their potential.
The early season setback against Indiana, now 11-0 and ranked second nationally, offered a glimpse of ODU’s potential. Coach Ricky Rahne acknowledged the midseason struggles, noting, “We didn’t play quite as physical. We certainly didn’t play with the same technique and fundamentals.” He emphasized that a combination of factors contributed to their inconsistent performances.
Sophomore quarterback Colton Joseph echoed his coach’s sentiments, stating, “We just weren’t playing as confident or as detailed as we would like in those two games.” The team’s ability to regroup after these setbacks speaks volumes about their character and determination.
Looking Ahead
The Monarchs have rebounded with consecutive wins, including a dominant 33-0 shutout against Troy, their first since 2017. This resurgence has positioned them favorably for a bowl game and a chance to replicate their 2016 record of 10-3. As ODU prepares for its upcoming match against Georgia Southern, the team is focused on maintaining their momentum.
The Eagles, with a record of 5-5 and 3-3 in the Sun Belt, are coming off two consecutive wins, including a narrow 25-23 victory over Appalachian State on November 6. Despite their recent success, Georgia Southern’s defense has struggled, allowing an average of 34.6 points per game, which ranks last in the conference.
As the Monarchs step onto the field this Saturday at 1 p.m. local time, they carry not only the hopes of their fans but also the determination to prove that their earlier struggles do not define their season. They are poised to demonstrate the progress made under Coach Rahne’s leadership, aiming to finish strong and secure a place in the annals of ODU football history.
