Old Dominion Monarchs
Colonial
One of the most prolific offensive teams in the FCS, Old Dominion was expected to have a good season, and the Monarchs have. In just four seasons, Coach Bobby Wilder has built an impressive program. Although ODU wasn’t eligible for the CAA title this season because of its pending move to Conference USA, the Monarchs were a no-brainer to receive a playoff berth.
2012 Record: 10-1, 7-1
Coach: Bobby Wilder
Big Wins: 9/22 New Hampshire (64-61), 10/20 at Towson (31-20)
Bad Losses: 10/13 Villanova (14-38)
Strengths:
Start with quarterback Taylor Heinicke. A sophomore from Atlanta, GA, Heinicke set a Division I record early this season when he threw for a record 730 yards against New Hampshire. He is the favorite to win the CAA Offensive Player of the Year, passing for 4,158 yards, 1,000 more yards than the closest quarterback, and 35 touchdowns. Team wise, ODU is No. 1 in the nation in total offense (556 yards per game) and is No. 2 in passing offense (384 ypg). The Monarchs also are second in scoring offense (45.10 points a game). Four receivers have at least 35 receptions, but Nick Mayer is tops with 980 yards and 13 touchdowns. They are excellent on fourth down, having converted 22 of 29 chances.
Weaknesses:
There must be a weak link somewhere, right? Yes, there is, on the defensive side of the ball. ODU is ranked 70th nationally in rushing defense and 85th in pass defense. In 10 games, the Monarchs are giving up 28.4 points a game, 70th in the nation. Six teams have scored at least 25 points on ODU. In its victory over ODU, Villanova was able to rush for 376 yards and picked up 19 rushing first downs. So far, Villanova has been the only team to be successful against ODU, but that’s the game plan, control the clock and keep Heinicke off the field.
Statistical Leaders:
Rushing: Tyree Lee, RB, 751 yards
Passing: Taylor Heinicke, QB, 4,158 yards
Receiving: Nick Mayers, WR, 980 yards
Tackles: Craig Wilkins, LB, 77
Sacks: Craig Wilkins, LB, 5.5
Interceptions: Rodney Hunter, LB, 2; Devon Simmons, S, 2; Craig Wilkins, LB, 2
2012 Team Stats:
Rushing Offense: 172.30 (40th in nation, 5th in conference)
Passing Offense: 384.50 (2, 1)
Total Offense: 556.80 (1, 1)
Scoring Offense: 45.10 (2, 1)
Rushing Defense: 161.90 (70, 7)
Pass Defense: 235.80 (85, 6)
Total Defense: 397.70 (81, 8)
Scoring Defense: 28.40 (70, 9)
Turnover Margin: 0.30 (39, 4)
Sacks: 2.50 (25, 2)
Sacks Allowed: 2.20 (67, 7)
Recent Playoff Appearances:
2011 First Round Defeated Norfolk State
2011 Second Round Lost to Georgia Southern
*all team stats through 11/10
