Villanova @ Towson, CAA Game of the Year

[DoubleH]

At least so far. :D With Delaware and JMU both clearly down this year, and with 'Nova beating W&M this week, there are only 3 teams without a conference loss: 'Nova, Towson, and Maine. Obviously there's a lot of football left, but this one is huge, featuring the two pre-season favorites for the CAA title. Unfortunately, the Tigers and Black Bears do not play this season, but 'Nova and Maine do, so a Tiger win puts them in great position.

Discuss.

[IBleedYellow]

Will be a good game, Nova has been coming back up after a weird start. I still think Towson rolls.

[LoneStar]

At least so far. :D With Delaware and JMU both clearly down this year, and with 'Nova beating W&M this week, there are only 3 teams without a conference loss: 'Nova, Towson, and Maine. Obviously there's a lot of football left, but this one is huge, featuring the two pre-season favorites for the CAA title. Unfortunately, the Tigers and Black Bears do not play this season, but 'Nova and Maine do, so a Tiger win puts them in great position.

Discuss.


I really don't see it this way, I think too many folks don't realize teams like New Hampshire and Villanova depend on gadget plays and deception, trickery, and plenty of smoke and mirrors with their offense. That type of football usually will come back and expose the teams weakness at some point. I have to say right now watching North Dakota State for the second time this year that we would match up well. They play with a similar style of physicality but I'm not sure there is anyone in their conference that has the explosiveness that we have on offense. Our conference is perceived as being weaker in the last couple years, plenty of that had to do with the playoffs, one can only guess how Towson and Richmond would of done in place of UNH/Nova.

One thing for sure is Towson's team last year was better than the one that made the playoffs the prior year and this years version is even better.

[DoubleH]

I really don't see it this way, I think too many folks don't realize teams like New Hampshire and Villanova depend on gadget plays and deception, trickery, and plenty of smoke and mirrors with their offense. That type of football usually will come back and expose the teams weakness at some point. I have to say right now watching North Dakota State for the second time this year that we would match up well. They play with a similar style of physicality but I'm not sure there is anyone in their conference that has the explosiveness that we have on offense. Our conference is perceived as being weaker in the last couple years, plenty of that had to do with the playoffs, one can only guess how Towson and Richmond would of done in place of UNH/Nova.

One thing for sure is Towson's team last year was better than the one that made the playoffs the prior year and this years version is even better.

I don't understand what you man when you say you don't see "it" that way, because I agree with everything in your post. xchinscratchx

[Nova09]

I really don't see it this way, I think too many folks don't realize teams like New Hampshire and Villanova depend on gadget plays and deception, trickery, and plenty of smoke and mirrors with their offense. That type of football usually will come back and expose the teams weakness at some point. I have to say right now watching North Dakota State for the second time this year that we would match up well. They play with a similar style of physicality but I'm not sure there is anyone in their conference that has the explosiveness that we have on offense. Our conference is perceived as being weaker in the last couple years, plenty of that had to do with the playoffs, one can only guess how Towson and Richmond would of done in place of UNH/Nova.

One thing for sure is Towson's team last year was better than the one that made the playoffs the prior year and this years version is even better.

I have no clue what team you support.

[DoubleH]

Can someone with knowledge of such things find the line on this game? Curious as to what the sportsbooks are thinking.

[LoneStar]

I don't understand what you man when you say you don't see "it" that way, because I agree with everything in your post. xchinscratchx



Sorry for the lack of clarity, I don't see the game as being the CAA game of the year. Unfortunately, we may have a situation where there are two teams that may be a step above the rest of the conference, and neither has a wildcat as a mascot nor do they play each other in the regular season. Tiebreaker again? Ugh....

I'm thinking this is a 35-17 type of game.

[bluehenbillk]

The FCS lines typically don't come out until Wednesday. It'll be interesting to see the (in)action this thread gets. Both teams have tons of talent and few fans. Nova drew an announced 6500 vs W&M and the Towson State crowd vs UNH wasn't large by any means as well.

[UIWWildthing]

The FCS lines typically don't come out until Wednesday. It'll be interesting to see the (in)action this thread gets. Both teams have tons of talent and few fans. Nova drew an announced 6500 vs W&M and the Towson State crowd vs UNH wasn't large by any means as well.
I'm surprised that there were Towson State fans considering Towson dropped the state part about 20 years ago :) (For the record I was attending Towson when the change was made)

[Dane96]

Real shame that Towson and Maine do not match up this year (unless it's in the playoffs).

THAT would be the game of the year in the CAA...

[mainejeff]

At least so far. :D With Delaware and JMU both clearly down this year, and with 'Nova beating W&M this week, there are only 3 teams without a conference loss: 'Nova, Towson, and Maine. Obviously there's a lot of football left, but this one is huge, featuring the two pre-season favorites for the CAA title. Unfortunately, the Tigers and Black Bears do not play this season, but 'Nova and Maine do, so a Tiger win puts them in great position.

Discuss.

The CAA Game of the Year will be in 3 weeks when Maine plays @ Villanova.

xcoffeex

[Lehigh'98]

I predict Towson will be about an 11 pt fav for this game.

[andy7171]

T-S-U! T-S-U! T-S-U!

[BisonBacker]

I think I'm going to get to watch this game or record it and watch it anyway. Looking forward to seeing both of these teams in action. Should be a great game.

[VUCats02]

I really don't see it this way, I think too many folks don't realize teams like New Hampshire and Villanova depend on gadget plays and deception, trickery, and plenty of smoke and mirrors with their offense. That type of football usually will come back and expose the teams weakness at some point. I have to say right now watching North Dakota State for the second time this year that we would match up well. They play with a similar style of physicality but I'm not sure there is anyone in their conference that has the explosiveness that we have on offense. Our conference is perceived as being weaker in the last couple years, plenty of that had to do with the playoffs, one can only guess how Towson and Richmond would of done in place of UNH/Nova.

One thing for sure is Towson's team last year was better than the one that made the playoffs the prior year and this years version is even better.

You're right. Villanova is clearly a joke with their smoke and mirrors offense - the same offense that won them a national championship four years ago and the same offense that has made Villanova a top 15 team for 5 of the last 6 years. You're right...

This game reminds me of last year's game when Nova played @ ODU on ODU's homecoming and ODU was a huge favorite. Nova proceeded to win the game by 20 points. I think this Towson team is better than last year's ODU team, but I still think this will be a very close game that will come down to the last 2 minutes.

[State Line Liquors]

In my opinion, there's no denying that Towson is a strong contender to win the league and to make a deep playoff run. Regardless of outcome, they're in terrific position.

I'm not quite so sure about Nova, but I do think this game will go a long way towards deciding where on the totem pole Nova rests. Win down at Towson, and I think we'll know that Nova has the potential and ability to be there in November and December. Lose, and Nova sits very precariously with 3 losses and in all likelihood needing to win out with a very challenging schedule ahead of them.

[Nova09]

I predict Towson will be about an 11 pt fav for this game.

No chance. Not saying no chance Towson wins by that much, but no chance the line comes out that high. FWIW, Massey has it at 8.5, but that's through a predictive model as opposed to a line designed to generate action on both sides.

[Ivytalk]

I will pick Towson by 7 to 10. No blowout.

[Nova09]

You're right. Villanova is clearly a joke with their smoke and mirrors offense - the same offense that won them a national championship four years ago and the same offense that has made Villanova a top 15 team for 5 of the last 6 years. You're right...

This game reminds me of last year's game when Nova played @ ODU on ODU's homecoming and ODU was a huge favorite. Nova proceeded to win the game by 20 points. I think this Towson team is better than last year's ODU team, but I still think this will be a very close game that will come down to the last 2 minutes.

xlolxxlolxxlolx

Was thinking the same thing, I guess getting the ball in your playmakers' hands will always be called "gadget" "deception" "smoke and mirrors" by some people. Nevermind that our national championship was a dominant defense and both lines were huge strengths.

Anyway, Nova offense against Towson the past 5 years: 35 points, 10*, 43, 49, 34. *That 10 point performance was the year we didn't have a qb and only won 2 games. But otherwise, I don't think that offense is doomed to fail, seems to have held up pretty well.

[Nova09]

The CAA Game of the Year will be in 3 weeks when Maine plays @ Villanova.

xcoffeex

I hope so, because if that's the case in 3 weeks it must mean Villanova has beaten Towson at that point :D

[Anovafan]

I think Towson is the best team in the country right now (yes, I said it, better than NDSU although I do vote NDSU #1 and Towson #2 in the poll) and will go undefeated. I don't think Nova can handle Towson's physicality. I hope I am wrong, but I see Towson walking over Nova in the second half. Something like 42-21.

[DoubleH]

The CAA Game of the Year will be in 3 weeks when Maine plays @ Villanova.

xcoffeex

A rather bold statement, seeing as how Maine plays a very tough W&M team between now and then.

[Bohcat]

This will be my first Towson game and I think I lucked out with being able to see a great match up, really looking forward to a great game. Any advice on pre-game atmosphere or sights to see?

[DoubleH]

The best sight to see will be the Tigers moving to 7-0. xnodx

Very solid tailgating in lots 13 & 14 right in front of the stadium, but get there early because after it fills up, general parking is back on the main campus and you will have to walk or take a shuttle. It's not very far, but obviously defeats the purpose of the tailgate. Lot 13 is reserved for parking pass holders, 14 is general.

Sights in Towson or Baltimore?

[Bohcat]

Awesome thanks for the info DoubleH. Thats what I was looking for, trying to get an idea of where things are at and what I should be looking out for as far as game day atmosphere. Friend of a friend has a tailgating spot lined up so I am looking forward to seeing everything. Definately planning on a Towson "W" as well. I actually live in Baltimore now but this is the first time im getting my butt in gear to go to a game, I've been putting it off for 3 years now... my bad. But I'm planning on going to a playoff game or two or three this year.

[DoubleH]

But I'm planning on going to a playoff game or two or three this year.

Let us hope so, and anytime man.

[bluehenbillk]

Wow..this thread was on the second page already.

Towson State is listed as a 9 point favorite this morning.

[TigerFen]

This will be my first Towson game and I think I lucked out with being able to see a great match up, really looking forward to a great game. Any advice on pre-game atmosphere or sights to see?

I would say if you can't get in with a good tailgate. Go park in the Garage attached to 7800 building and have dinner at Bill bateman's. They have excellent wings and good Burgers and wraps. If Bateman's doesn't interest you, then I would suggest trying Charles Village Pub at the corner of York and Joppa in that circle area.

[VUCats02]

If Nova loses will they have to win out to make the playoffs? In my opinion, it would be hard to leave out a team that has 4 losses to Boston College, Fordham on the road, Towson on the road, and someone like Maine or JMU. Also keep in mind, Nova is playing more road games this year than home games. I'm thinking that should give them some leeway from the committee if they were to have 4 losses.

[State Line Liquors]

If Nova loses will they have to win out to make the playoffs? In my opinion, it would be hard to leave out a team that has 4 losses to Boston College, Fordham on the road, Towson on the road, and someone like Maine or JMU. Also keep in mind, Nova is playing more road games this year than home games. I'm thinking that should give them some leeway from the committee if they were to have 4 losses.

My feeling is 'Yes, they will need to win out,'. It's certainly going to depend on the resumes of other bubble applicants as well. But scheduling 11 games in a year where you are able to schedule 12 is detriment to Nova's chances in my mind. For the life of me, I can't figure out why Nova (or really any team that has visions of making the playoffs each year) didn't find a way get a 12th game on their schedule. There are plenty of teams that would have been available for either of the two 'bye' weeks the Cats scheduled, they should have made it happen.

[Anovafan]

My feeling is 'Yes, they will need to win out,'. It's certainly going to depend on the resumes of other bubble applicants as well. But scheduling 11 games in a year where you are able to schedule 12 is detriment to Nova's chances in my mind. For the life of me, I can't figure out why Nova (or really any team that has visions of making the playoffs each year) didn't find a way get a 12th game on their schedule. There are plenty of teams that would have been available for either of the two 'bye' weeks the Cats scheduled, they should have made it happen.

If Nova ends up with 4 losses, they are clearly on the bubble and probably won't get in. There will be other 7-4 or 8-4 teams with better resumes. This would assume losses to BC, Fordham, Towson and probably a team like Maine. Fordham, Towson and Maine would likely be in the playoffs ahead of them so it would be easy to leave Nova home.

Nova didn't schedule a 12th game because of injury concerns, expanded playoff games, and hoping for a deep run in the playoffs. It may bite them in the end but who is to say they would have won that 12th game?

[mainejeff]

If Nova ends up with 4 losses, they are clearly on the bubble and probably won't get in. There will be other 7-4 or 8-4 teams with better resumes. This would assume losses to BC, Fordham, Towson and probably a team like Maine. Fordham, Towson and Maine would likely be in the playoffs ahead of them so it would be easy to leave Nova home.

Nova didn't schedule a 12th game because of injury concerns, expanded playoff games, and hoping for a deep run in the playoffs. It may bite them in the end but who is to say they would have won that 12th game?

I agree that 7-4 isn't going to cut it. I can't believe that a smart and well financed program like Nova did not schedule a 12th game............

[bluehenbillk]

I agree that 7-4 isn't going to cut it. I can't believe that a smart and well financed program like Nova did not schedule a 12th game............

Boy is that comment dripping with sarcasm :)

[DoubleH]

My feeling is 'Yes, they will need to win out,'. It's certainly going to depend on the resumes of other bubble applicants as well. But scheduling 11 games in a year where you are able to schedule 12 is detriment to Nova's chances in my mind. For the life of me, I can't figure out why Nova (or really any team that has visions of making the playoffs each year) didn't find a way get a 12th game on their schedule. There are plenty of teams that would have been available for either of the two 'bye' weeks the Cats scheduled, they should have made it happen.

Agreed, 7-4, even if the assumption is a win over Maine and a loss to someone else, puts they squarely on the bubble. 8-4 might have been a different story.

[TigerFen]

If Nova loses will they have to win out to make the playoffs? In my opinion, it would be hard to leave out a team that has 4 losses to Boston College, Fordham on the road, Towson on the road, and someone like Maine or JMU. Also keep in mind, Nova is playing more road games this year than home games. I'm thinking that should give them some leeway from the committee if they were to have 4 losses.

I think they would have to win eight games because they're not playing 12 games to get in. 7-4 is a hard number to get into the playoffs even with 24 teams because they're so many good teams. Fordham is almost a lock for one of them at this point. Then, you have UNI as a near definite in also. You also may have a team not win their league like an OVC second, but deserves to be in at 9 or 10 wins. That takes three at large's right there. This will still leave a lot of teams in the mix for 10 spots.

[Nova09]

I actually like our chances at 7-4. Obviously I don't want to be 7-4, but wouldn't feel terrible about it. A lot would be tied to how W&M and SB do the rest of the way. Richmond-SB would actually be a huge game for us (we don't play Richmond) bc if SB were to win we would essentially be above both of them in selection order.

[Nova09]

Further analysis: let's say the following are playoff teams: NDSU, UNI, Towson, EWU, Mont, MSU, Mcneese, SHSU, Wofford, Samford, EIU, Maine, Fordham, Youngstown.

Let's say for all the conferences represented above, one of the teams listed wins autobid. Let's also say Coastal and Bethune win autobid.

That's only 8 at-large. Maybe a second OVC gets a bid. Maybe the winner of SeLa UCA gets a bid. Maybe a MVFC team (SDSU or SIU) can pick up a huge win against NDSU or UNI and get into contention. Maybe the second place Big South will have a legitimate resume. Even with all those maybes happening (and they won't all happen), and with the original premise including 2 SoCon which is no guarantee, there is still an at-large left.

So like I said, not comfortable at all, wouldn't want to be in the situation, but all things considered I'd like our chances at 7-4.

[Gate83]

Further analysis: let's say the following are playoff teams: NDSU, UNI, Towson, EWU, Mont, MSU, Mcneese, SHSU, Wofford, Samford, EIU, Maine, Fordham, Youngstown.

Let's say for all the conferences represented above, one of the teams listed wins autobid. Let's also say Coastal and Bethune win autobid.

That's only 8 at-large. Maybe a second OVC gets a bid. Maybe the winner of SeLa UCA gets a bid. Maybe a MVFC team (SDSU or SIU) can pick up a huge win against NDSU or UNI and get into contention. Maybe the second place Big South will have a legitimate resume. Even with all those maybes happening (and they won't all happen), and with the original premise including 2 SoCon which is no guarantee, there is still an at-large left.

So like I said, not comfortable at all, wouldn't want to be in the situation, but all things considered I'd like our chances at 7-4.

Note that Fordham isn't eligible for the Patriot autobid this year since they're ahead of the rest of the league on adopting scholarships. I'd assume an undefeated Fordham team gets in before 7-4 Nova, narrowing your options...

[Grizalltheway]

You're right. Villanova is clearly a joke with their smoke and mirrors offense - the same offense that won them a national championship four years ago and the same offense that has made Villanova a top 15 team for 5 of the last 6 years. You're right...

This game reminds me of last year's game when Nova played @ ODU on ODU's homecoming and ODU was a huge favorite. Nova proceeded to win the game by 20 points. I think this Towson team is better than last year's ODU team, but I still think this will be a very close game that will come down to the last 2 minutes.

Yeah, but you don't have Szczczcer running wild out of the backfield this season.

[Nova09]

Note that Fordham isn't eligible for the Patriot autobid this year since they're ahead of the rest of the league on adopting scholarships. I'd assume an undefeated Fordham team gets in before 7-4 Nova, narrowing your options...

Good catch, though it would have been a better catch if you realized I already accounted for that :D If you look at the teams I listed, there are 14 representing 7 conferences, but I said 8 at-larges taken by that group of 14, because I only took out 6 autobids, counting Fordham as an at-large.

But yeah, I wasn't clear about that at all. Also it's ridiculous that I'm talking about playoff possibilities right now but I'm strictly a fan these days, so I get to do these things for fun. xlolx

[Gate83]

Good catch, though it would have been a better catch if you realized I already accounted for that :D If you look at the teams I listed, there are 14 representing 7 conferences, but I said 8 at-larges taken by that group of 14, because I only took out 6 autobids, counting Fordham as an at-large.

But yeah, I wasn't clear about that at all. Also it's ridiculous that I'm talking about playoff possibilities right now but I'm strictly a fan these days, so I get to do these things for fun. xlolx

Probably because I dropped in on this thread without looking at the previous posts, my bad! However, given the Patriot League's ability to screw stuff up, I'm anticipating either the Cross or my Red Raiders (hopefully) upsetting Lehigh & running the PL table, winning the autobid and leaving the committee to decide whether a 7-4 Nova squad or a 9-2 Lehigh team is more worthy. As someone new to this board, either scenario works pretty well for me... though from what I've read, Lehigh sitting out another year would certainly generate the most AGS traffic!

[Lehigh'98]

Probably because I dropped in on this thread without looking at the previous posts, my bad! However, given the Patriot League's ability to screw stuff up, I'm anticipating either the Cross or my Red Raiders (hopefully) upsetting Lehigh & running the PL table, winning the autobid and leaving the committee to decide whether a 7-4 Nova squad or a 9-2 Lehigh team is more worthy. As someone new to this board, either scenario works pretty well for me... though from what I've read, Lehigh sitting out another year would certainly generate the most AGS traffic!

I think most rational (there are a few) LU fans realize if we don't win the league, we'll be eating turkey at Aunt Lucy's house instead of practicing for the playoffs.

[Gate83]

I think most rational (there are a few) LU fans realize if we don't win the league, we'll be eating turkey at Aunt Lucy's house instead of practicing for the playoffs.

Like I said, I'm new... but from what I can see there will be a few empty chairs at Aunt Lucy's. I'll have a drumstick with you, 98!

[Lehigh'98]

Nice, I do love a good drumstick. I have an odd feeling Villanova is going to shine this week similar to ODU last year. The only thing is, Towson is a much more physical team than they were.

[MR. CHICKEN]

18414.......DIS STEEL CAGE RUMBLE....CAN BE VIEWED ON NBCSN...7:00PM.....EASTERN BIAS TIME.......xrotatehx......BRAWK!

RICHMOND....vs....JAMES MADISON....KICKS OFF....DUH DOUBLE BUBBLE...3:30...EBT.....NBCSN......ER...UM...AWK!

[State Line Liquors]

Yeah, but you don't have Szczczcer running wild out of the backfield this season.

I'd say the weapons in general around Robertson are not on the same level as what Whitney had to work with.

[bobcathpdevil56]

This will be my first Towson game and I think I lucked out with being able to see a great match up, really looking forward to a great game. Any advice on pre-game atmosphere or sights to see?

Hey Bohcat, are you gonna be wearing Towson gear for this occasion???:)

[Grizalltheway]

Hey Bohcat, are you gonna be wearing Towson gear for this occasion???:)

Either way he'll probably be chanting FTG the whole time. They have a bit of an obsession with us.xlolx

[bobcathpdevil56]

Either way he'll probably be chanting FTG the whole time. They have a bit of an obsession with us.xlolx

This is true, can never stop telling the Griz this, no matter what:)

[andy7171]

Wow! Look at all the new Towson posters up in here!

[bobcathpdevil56]

Sorry, not trying to hijack this thread

Go Towson

[Grizalltheway]

Wow! Look at all the new Towson posters up in here!

You should be glad for the attention after all these years of irrelevancy.

[Bohcat]

Hey Bohcat, are you gonna be wearing Towson gear for this occasion???:)


Either way he'll probably be chanting FTG the whole time. They have a bit of an obsession with us.xlolx



yeah i'll break out my towson shirt. I am an alum now... That sounds kinda wierd.

"obsession" says the griz fan trolling bobcat fans on a towson/villanova game thread xeyebrowx

[UIWWildthing]

You should be glad for the attention after all these years of irrelevancy.
Believe me, I'm still getting used to being relevant.

[Grizalltheway]

yeah i'll break out my towson shirt. I am an alum now... That sounds kinda wierd.

"obsession" says the griz fan trolling bobcat fans on a towson/villanova game thread xeyebrowx

Not trolling, just pointing out that some cat fans (not all, obviously) have a penchant for chanting rude things about the Griz at games that have nothing to do with them.xthumbsupx

[Mr. C]

We are about 45 minutes away from the opening kickoff. Cloudy, but no rain as of yet. Towson is expecting a sellout for the game tonight. For a preview of things, here is a link for you:

http://www.college-sports-journal.com/index.php/ncaa-division-i-sports/fcs-football/758-villanova-battles-injuries-towson-in-caa-showdown

[Mr. C]

Villanova has won the toss and is deferring to the second half. Towson will get the ball first.

[Mr. C]

One of the games I've looked forward the most to seeing this year.

[Squealofthepig]

Towson fumbles opening kickoff, Villanova recovers! On the 20.

[Mr. C]

Good contain for VU on the kickoff coverage and Derrick Joseph fumbles and Shane Harris recovers for Villanova at the TU 20.

[Mr. C]

No gain on 1st down for VU on the bubble screen. Wheel route to FB Gary Underwood from John Robertson for a 20-yard TD on 2nd down. Underwood was wide open.

[Mr. C]

Villanova 7, Towson 0, 14:03 left after Mark Hamilton's PAT.

[VUCats02]

Great start! Somehow I still feel like we're losing the game even up 7-0 with that dude Terrance West on the other team.

[Mr. C]

Reminds me of the starts to the Kent State and Old Dominion games from last year for Towson.

[Mr. C]

Towson returns the ball to the 35 on the next kickoff.

[Mr. C]

Terrance West goes off-tackle to the 36. 2nd and 9.

[Mr. C]

Peter Athens has his first pass tipped and intercepted at the TU 32.

[Mr. C]

DL Pat Williams with the tip and LB Joey Harmon with the diving interception.

[Mr. C]

Run by Robertson to the 25 and then J-A Rahman gets it down inside the 15, but VU is called for holding.

[Mr. C]

Robertson scrambles for 12 to the TU 19 for a first down.

[Mr. C]

Kevin Monangai zone read inside to the 16. 2nd and 7.

[Mr. C]

Trips right and Robertson keeps on a designed run inside to the 13. 3rd and 4.

[Mr. C]

Slant is complete to Mike Burke for a first and goal at the 7.

[Mr. C]

Double tight end and Monangai powers to the 2. 2nd and goal.

[Mr. C]

I formation double TE and Robertson takes it in for the TD from the 2.

[Mr. C]

8 plays, 32 yards, 3:39 for Villanova on the drive

Hamilton's PAT makes it Villanova 14, Towson 0 with 9:39 left in the first period.

[Mr. C]

20th career TD rushing for John Robertson and the sixth of the season for the sophomore QB.

[No_Skill]

Are there any online audio options for this game?

[VUCats02]

Towson has not run many offensive plays yet but so far Nova's 4-3 defense looking much better against this Towson team than last year's game with the 3-3-5. Let's see with a bigger sample size of plays if this continues to be more successful.

[Mr. C]

Great start! Somehow I still feel like we're losing the game even up 7-0 with that dude Terrance West on the other team.
It will be interesting to see how this plays out. Towson was down 20-3 in the first quarter against New Hampshire last week and came back and won 44-28, but New Hampshire can't play defense. We know that Villanova certainly can.

[Mr. C]

Are there any online audio options for this game?
I'll see if I can find one.

Try this one:

http://www.vipboxonline.eu/american-football/182255/1/villanova-vs-towson--live-stream-online.html

[Mr. C]

West runs for 2 to the 28 after the kickoff return.

[HailSzczur]

I'm a little upset that we have had much of a chance to use too much of our gimmicky smoke and mirrors offense yet.

Deferring was the best decision we made

[Mr. C]

Connor Frazier is replacing Athens at QB and runs for 5 to the 33. 3rd and 3.

[HailSzczur]

Any word on why TU switched QB's?

[VUCats02]

A THIRD TURNOVER!!!

[CopperCat]

Nova D looking good. Three possessions for Towson, three turnovers all recovered by Nova.

[HailSzczur]

5 plays. 3 turnovers. Wow, can't script this stuff

[Mr. C]

Trips left, twins right, slant from Frazier to Wilkins is caught and fumbled. Joe Sarnese with the forced fumble and safety Cameron McCurry with the recovery at the TU 44.

[VUCats02]

I'm a little upset that we have had much of a chance to use too much of our gimmicky smoke and mirrors offense yet.

Deferring was the best decision we made

xlolx

[Mr. C]

19-yard Robertson to Rahman completion and then 10 more on the opposite side to Rahman again.

[Mr. C]

Now Rahman up the middle on a run to the TU 12. 2nd and 7.

[Mr. C]

Heavy formation with three backs lining with Robertson in the backfield and JR's scramble goes for zero. 3rd and 7.

[Mr. C]

Great read by Robertson on another scramble to the Villanova sideline and he runs to the 6. 4th and inches and Villanova will go for it.

[Mr. C]

Time out Villanova as Robertson lined up with two TEs and an empty backfield. 5:54 left in the first period.

[UIWWildthing]

This is an embarrassing start for the Tigers. They need to hold onto the ball better.

[VUCats02]

The whole momentum of this game turns if Nova doesn't pick up 2 inches right here.

[Mr. C]

Slot left, spread set, Robertson fumbles the snap and is stopped for minus-one, but Towson jumped offsides.

[Mr. C]

The penalty gives Villanova the first and goal at the 3. Robertson is hit hard on a sweep to the one.

[Mr. C]

2nd and goal from the 1, zone read to Monangai for the touchdown.

[Mr. C]

7 plays, 44 yards, 3:18 on the Villanova drive

Hamilton's PAT makes it Villanova 21, Towson 0 with 4:59 left in the first period.

[Mr. C]

Towson has been outscored 55-3 in the past three games in the first quarter, but the Tigers came back for a 35-21 victory at Stony Brook and a 44-28 win against New Hampshire.

[VUCats02]

Towson has been outscored 55-3 in the past three games in the first quarter, but the Tigers came back for a 35-21 victory at Stony Brook and a 44-28 win against New Hampshire.

I've never been more nervous up 21-0 before...

[HailSzczur]

@NovaFootball (https://twitter.com/NovaFootball)59s (https://twitter.com/NovaFootball/status/389171855258427392)
Towson has been outscored 55-3 in the opening quarter the last two weeks.

[Mr. C]

Touchback on the kickoff will give Towson the ball at the Tiger 25.

[Mr. C]

False start on Towson and Rob Ambrose is going nuts on the sidelines because of the play of his team.

[HailSzczur]

False start for TU. Nothing is going right

[Mr. C]

Athens pass to Wilkins for 80 yards and a touchdown.

[Mr. C]

Longest completion of Athens' career and longest play from scrimmage for the Tigers this season.

[Mr. C]

Evangelista's PAT is blocked by McCurry.

Villanova 21, Towson 6, 4:17 left in the first period.

[HailSzczur]

2nd blocked PAT on the year for the Cats

[VUCats02]

And Towson wakes up.....everyone buckle your seatbelts up! Gonna be a long ride.

[Lehigh'98]

This has the look of a great game even though its 21-6. If TU can fix the turnovers, they'll be right back in it.

[Mr. C]

Wilkins ran a simple post, got a key block downfield and a couple of Villanova defenders took bad angles on the TD reception.

[Mr. C]

Javon White is stripped by Christian Carpenter on the kick return, but Villanova recovers at the 26.

[Mr. C]

Shayne Jones with the Wildcat recovery at the 26. White is injured on the play and is coming off slowly.

[Mr. C]

First time Villanova has had the ball on its side of the field in the game. Monangai runs to the 30, 2nd and 6.

[Mr. C]

Good seal blocks for Nova and Robertson spurts for 10 to the VU 40. 1st down.

[Mr. C]

Rahman goes in motion and sets the block for a bubble screen to Poppy Livers to the 44. 2nd and 6.

[Mr. C]

Jet sweep fake to Rahman and Monangai runs hard to the TU 49 for the 1st down. KM was stood up by a hard hit at the end of the run.

Robertson keeper on the read option to the TU 44. 2nd and 5.

[Mr. C]

Lateral to Rahman in motion from Robertson for the 13 to the TU 31. 1st and 10.

[Mr. C]

Robertson gets crazy on the snap, fumbles, but recovers at the 31. 2nd and 10. Luck is going the Cats way early.

[Mr. C]

Robertson on the full run rolling to the right hits Rahman at the 20 for another 1st down.

[Mr. C]

Offsides on Towson on an incompletion. 1st and 5 at the TU 15.

[Mr. C]

Robertson on a rugby scrum to the TU 12. 2nd and 2. A lot Villanova can do here.

First quarter ends

Villanova 21, Towson 6

[VUCats02]

Didn't think it was ever going to happen, but the first quarter did indeed just come to an end.

[Mr. C]

Two options for Villanova on second and short. Continue to power the ball right at Towson's defense, or come up with some sort of play action. Look for Earnest Pettway at TE, or Underwood out of the backfield at FB.

[Mr. C]

21 points the most scored in any quarter this season for Nova, most given up by Towson.

[Mr. C]

Villanova takes the conservative route with the zone read play inside to Monangai to the 7. 1st and goal.

[Mr. C]

KM zone read for zero, 2nd and goal.

[Mr. C]

The nifty play comes two plays later as Robertson fakes the QB draw and jump passes to Pettway for the TD from seven yards out.

[Winindy]

Its going to be hard for Towson to go deep in the playoffs making all these stupid penalties.

[Mr. C]

Hamilton's PAT makes it Villanova 28, Towson 6, 14:01 left in the second quarter.


12 plays, 74 yards, 5:37 on the drive

[Mr. C]

Its going to be hard for Towson to go deep in the playoffs making all these stupid penalties.
I think it is more nerves than anything else for Towson. Penalties are not that normal for the Tigers.

[Mr. C]

Derrick Joseph goes 90 yards for a kickoff return TD for Towson. 4th TD return in Joseph's career.

[Mr. C]

Good block from Leon Kinnard set Joseph off to the races.

T. West passes to James Oboh for the two-point conversion.

[Mr. C]

West's first-ever college pass as he ran a sweep to the right and then pulled up and hit his tight end.

Villanova 28, Towson 14, 13:47 left in the second period

[Winindy]

The anouncers keep saying they are the most pealnalized team in the conference. How is that not normal?

[Mr. C]

This start reminds me of the wild Towson-New Hampshire game of 2011. Towson won that one, 56-42.

[Mr. C]

Jet sweep after the touchback to Rahman goes to the 27, gain of 2. 2nd and 8.

[Mr. C]

Robertson escapes a sack and runs to the 28. 3rd and 7. Ryan Delaire missed Robertson.

[Mr. C]

10-yard pass for the 1st down to Gulyus at the VU 38.

[fmrbearkat]

Towson better settle down...there defense has been on the field the entire game! They are going to get gassed bad if they don't settle in for a long drive next series.

[Mr. C]

Pass for 11 from Robertson to Wells. 1st down at the VU 49.

Monangai runs for 7 to the TU 44.

[Mr. C]

Monangai runs hard to the 42. 3rd and 1.

[Mr. C]

Robertson goes the opposite way from a run blitz and rushes for 3 to the TU 39. 1st and 10.

[Winindy]

CAA penalties per game

10.Towson.............. 6 44 380 63.3
11.James Madison....... 6 47 408 68.0

Not the worst. Close though.

[Mr. C]

Clear out as Robertson rolls to the left and hits Livers at the 31.

[Mr. C]

Austin Medley's first carry gets a 1st down at the Towson 29.

[Mr. C]

Empty backfield and Robertson hits Rahman on a bubble screen that goes to the 6. But a holding call set up the play. Late flag as an official dials long distance (correctly).

[Mr. C]

1st down and 20 from the 37 and Robertson is sacked by Brendan Gannon for a six-yard loss.

Completion on the VU sideline to Gulyas to the 35. After the 8-yard gain, it is 3rd and 16.

[Mr. C]

Trips right, Robertson scrambles and hits Rahman, who drops it. Flag on the play is a personal foul on Towson.

[HailSzczur]

Speaking of penalties. What a gift

[Mr. C]

Towson fans are howling for a hold, which was pretty obvious.

1st down for Nova at the TU 21.

[Mr. C]

Robertson keeps for 4 to the TU 17, 2nd and 6.

[VUCats02]

That is a stupid, stupid rule.

[Mr. C]

Inside zone for Medley, who takes a quick step and runs to the 10. 1st and goal.

[Mr. C]

That is a stupid, stupid rule.
What rule?

[HailSzczur]

That is a stupid, stupid rule.

We were saying replay of down seems more reasonable. If the rules for player safety whistle the play dead on the spot, as if it was a false start

[Mr. C]

Nova runs to the two, 2nd and goal.

[Mr. C]

Monangai powers in for the TD from the 2, but flags are down. Chop block on Villanova will wipe it out.

[Mr. C]

RG Josh Bucci on the penalty that puts the ball on the TU 16.

[Mr. C]

Reverse by Livers goes to the 9 and someone from Towson ripped off Gary Underwood's helmet for a personal foul.

[Winindy]

Man these officials love the camera time

[VUCats02]

What rule?

Personal foul for continuing the play if your helmet comes off??? It should be a 5 yard penalty and not an automatic first down. That is just kinda ridiculous.

[Mr. C]

4-yard TD run by Robertson and the PAT makes it 35-14 Villanova

16 plays, 75 yards, 8:08 on the drive

Four crucial penalties for Towson on the scoring drive

[Mr. C]

Personal foul for continuing the play if your helmet comes off??? It should be a 5 yard penalty and not an automatic first down. That is just kinda ridiculous.
It was a face mask penalty on Towson. The guy ripped off the helmet by grabbing the face mask.

[fmrbearkat]

Towson defense is gassed and playing sloppy! Something like 50 offensive plays for Nova and only 6 for Towson! Not enough depth in FCS to have your defense on the field an entire half!!

[Mr. C]

Joseph returns up the middle 26 yards to the 31.

1st offensive play for Towson in the second quarter with 5:31 left in the half.

[HailSzczur]

It was a face mask penalty on Towson. The guy ripped off the helmet by grabbing the face mask.
Pretty sure he was talking about the participating without a hat flag

[Mr. C]

Towson defense is gassed and playing sloppy! Something like 50 offensive plays for Nova and only 6 for Towson! Not enough depth in FCS to have your defense on the field an entire half!!
Towson has SIX offensive plays for 91 yards.

Villanova had 26 plays before that 16-play TD drive.

[Mr. C]

West runs to the 34 for 3. 2nd and 7 after the Rakim Cox tackle.

[Mr. C]

West is stuffed for a loss of 3. 3rd and 10

[Mr. C]

Trips right and Villanova jumps offsides.

[Mr. C]

Officials call Towson for a false start. 3rd and 15 from the 26.

[Mr. C]

Athens badly overthrows Kinnard near the 40 to force the first punt of the game.

[Winindy]

Is that a Pat Williams jr?

[Mr. C]

Villanova will have 3:59 to try and build on a 21-point second-quarter lead.

[Mr. C]

Robertson on the run again to the Towson 38 on the 17-yard scamper.

Robertson is also 12-of-12 passing.

[Mr. C]

Rahman from a heavy formation slashes for 3 to the 35. 2nd and 7 with 3 minutes left in the half.

Robertson keeps and races around the right side to the Towson 31. 3rd and 3.

[Mr. C]

With 2:43 left in the half, Robertson escapes a tackler and moves it to the 21. 1st down.

[Mr. C]

Nice bubble screen to Livers on the left side and Livers jets to the 12. 2nd and 1.

[Mr. C]

Monangai powers to the 8. 1st and goal for Villanova.

[Lehigh'98]

Robertson looks incredible!!

[Mr. C]

Counter draw play by Monangai to the 2. 2nd down.

Robertson is stuffed at the 4. 3rd and goal.

[fmrbearkat]

Towson has SIX offensive plays for 91 yards.

Villanova had 26 plays before that 16-play TD drive.
Didn't I say SIX?????? The TD that got called back for the chop block was play 44. Without counting that they ran a couple after before they scored. They are well over 50 now and Towson had a 3 and out.

[Mr. C]

Time out for Villanova with 33 seconds left in the first half.

[Mr. C]

Didn't I say SIX?????? The TD that got called back for the chop block was play 44. Without counting that they ran a couple after before they scored. They are well over 50 now and Towson had a 3 and out.
Nobody was saying anything about what you said. I was just emphasizing the differential in plays. Stay mellow, my friend.

[Mr. C]

Robertson is played like a pinball as he is knocked out of bounds at the 4. Morale booster for Towson to make Nova settle for a field goal.

[Mr. C]

Mark Hamilton's 21-yard field goal makes it 38-14 with 22 seconds left in the half.


10 plays, 51 yards, 3:37 on the drive

[Mr. C]

Expect Villanova to squib kick this one.

[fmrbearkat]

Nobody was saying anything about what you said. I was just emphasizing the differential in plays. Stay mellow, my friend.

Don't you know caps mean screaming!!!! :-) so are you going to do play by play for the SHSU/McNeese game next week? We need a 40 page thread and I think you are our best chance!!

[Mr. C]

Towson's Emmanuel Holder fumbles the squibber, but recovers at the Tiger 33. 21 seconds left.

[Mr. C]

West catches an Athens pass to the Villanova 43. 24-yard pickup with 11 seconds left. Time out Towson.

[Mr. C]

Don't you know caps mean screaming!!!! :-) so are you going to do play by play for the SHSU/McNeese game next week? We need a 40 page thread and I think you are our best chance!!
If someone has a plane ticket and other transportation and lodging, I haven't decided what game I am covering yet for next week.

[Mr. C]

After another completion to West at the 24, D.J. Soven's 41-yard field goal attempt sails just narrowly wide to the left.

[fmrbearkat]

Ambrose looks like he is a huge dbag!!!

[Mr. C]

Halftime

Villanova 38
Towson 14

[Mr. C]

Ambrose looks like he is a huge dbag!!!
Careful, Rob Ambrose is one of my best friends in the coaching fraternity (as is Villanova's Andy Talley, who I have lunch with every Wednesday during football season). Rob is just a "little" hyper and a "bit" intense. I love the fact that Rob will tell you exactly what he thinks about any subject.

[Mr. C]

Don't you know caps mean screaming!!!! :-) so are you going to do play by play for the SHSU/McNeese game next week? We need a 40 page thread and I think you are our best chance!!
Sorry Bearcat, but I use caps to emphasize things. I'm not screaming here in the Towson press box.

[MR. CHICKEN]

TIME O' POSSESSION:

'NOVA....25:17
TIGERS....4:43

[HailSzczur]

Couldn't have scripted a better half for Nova. Towson is lucky they broke those 2 big plays, this very easily could be 38-0.

[MR. CHICKEN]

2nd HALF...KEEP DUH FOOT..ON DUH GAS...'CATS.........BRAWK!

[fmrbearkat]

I was not making a statement as he could be a really cool guy. I'm sure if your winning like they have been this year the players have loved him. I'm just making an observation from the way he has appeared during this game. Looked extremely cocky almost arrogant at first and then the yelling began! I understand being confident but as an HC I don't feel you should EVER in any situation laugh after a turnover like that. An HC should be a little more even keel or the players will react the same way.

[Lehigh'98]

Ambrose looks like he is a huge dbag!!!

He is, still can't get over that he was so bitter about losing in the playoffs in 2011, that he did what he did to Spadola. He's a good coach though.

[HailSzczur]

I was not making a statement as he could be a really cool guy. I'm sure if your winning like they have been this year the players have loved him. I'm just making an observation from the way he has appeared during this game. Looked extremely cocky almost arrogant at first and then the yelling began! I understand being confident but as an HC I don't feel you should EVER in any situation laugh after a turnover like that. An HC should be a little more even keel or the players will react the same way.

^^^I agree 100%. Tonight he's coming across real douchy.

Don't think he's a bad guy though. There was a group of us heckling behind the Towson bench last year, the week after the practice hours and religious jab story ran. We were giving him a nice clean ribing, he glared at us as he was walking away from a meeting with the offense and tripped as he back pedaled. Gave us alittle wave and laughed it off, real good sport. Compared to the reaction I've gotten from a lot of other basketball and football players and coaches he was a real good sport.

[fmrbearkat]

Sorry Bearcat, but I use caps to emphasize things. I'm not screaming here in the Towson press box.

Whoa whoa whoa.....Bearkat is spelled with a K!!! Please tell me you pronounce Aunt like the insect "ant" instead of "awnt"?

[Mr. C]

Villanova gets the ball to start the second half.

[Mr. C]

Villanova ran 54 plays to 11 for Towson. VU leads in total offense 301-142. Towson also has 187 yards to 19 in return yardage. Villanova leads time of possession 25:17 to 4:43.

[Mr. C]

Livers with a nice return from the 7 to the 33, 26 yards for Villanova.

[Mr. C]

Zone read to Monangai for 2 to the 35.

[Mr. C]

Robertson beats contain for 11 yards to the right sideline. Third 100-yard rushing game of the season and sixth overall for the sophomore QB.

Medley for 3 more to the 47, 2nd and 7.

[Mr. C]

Robertson keeper to the TU 40 for 13 more yards.

Rahman reception for 13 to the TU 27.

[Mr. C]

Late zone read handoff to Rahman to the 25. 2nd and 8.

[Mr. C]

To complicate Towson's troubles more, it has started to lightly rain in the second half.

Pass to Pettway to the TU 18. 3rd and 1.

[Mr. C]

Rahman cuts through the line to the TU 16. 1st down.

[Mr. C]

Monangai powers to the 9. 2nd and 3.

[Mr. C]

With the rain now pouring down, Monangai fumbles and Telvion Clark recovers for Towson at the 10. Clark also with the forced fumble.

[Mr. C]

West rushes for 3 to the 13 for Towson, 2nd and 7.

Dropped pass by Kinnard on the out. 3rd and 7.

[Mr. C]

Joseph with a nice crossing route and extra effort to give Towson a much needed first down at the 21.

West carries to the 26. 2nd and 5.

[Twentysix]

Didn't expect Villanova to blow towsons wheels off.

[Mr. C]

Doyble slot and Kinnard makes a nice catch for 19 yards as Athens drops the pass between the zone. 1st down at the TU 45.

[fmrbearkat]

Rain doesn't look like its going to last long at all.

[Mr. C]

Almost an even better Athens to Kinnard connection, but Kinnard can't hold on.

[Mr. C]

Brian Dowling (got to love that football name) with a catch at the VU 46. Third and inches and Towson calls time out.

[Mr. C]

Anyone remember the original Brian Dowling?

[Winindy]

Didn't expect Villanova to blow towsons wheels off.

I think Towson is blowing their own wheels off

[Mr. C]

Anyone remember Gary Trudeau's political comic strip Doonsbury?

[Mr. C]

I think Towson is blowing their own wheels off
Don't be fooled, Villanova is a very good football team, capable of a deep playoff run, if the Cats stay healthy and survive the CAA Clone Wars.

[Mr. C]

TWest for the 3-yard, 1st down run to the VU 43.

[Mr. C]

Joseph on the jet sweep to the VU 39.

[Winindy]

Don't be fooled, Villanova is a very good football team, capable of a deep playoff run, if the Cats stay healthy and survive the CAA Clone Wars.

Yes, I'm sure I'm being fooled.

[Mr. C]

Athens escapes a sack and makes a strong-armed throw to James Oboh, but it is dropped.

[Mr. C]

Yes, I'm sure I'm being fooled.
If you don't think Villanova is a good football team, you don't know college football.

[Mr. C]

Rakim Cox jumps offsides on a Towson incompletion. 3rd and 1 for Towson at the 35 and West runs to the VU 30 for the conversion of the drive.

[Mr. C]

Athens pass to Wilkins goes incomplete on the Nova sideline. 2nd and 10 with 6:04 left. 12th play in this drive, more than all of Towson's plays in the first half (11).

Incompletion and near interception on a pass to the end zone. 3rd and 3 from the 30.

[Mr. C]

Surprising third-down West run goes to the 28, 4th and 8 and Towson must go for it.

[Mr. C]

Crossing route to Wilkins with good protection and Wilkins gets 13 yards to the VU 15.

[Lehigh'98]

Fordham's win over Villanova is looking better each week. With Towson & UNI losing, it may snag them a seed. Assuming this score holds of course.

[Winindy]

If you don't think Villanova is a good football team, you don't know college football.

When did I say that?

[Mr. C]

Incomplete pass in the end zone. 2nd down pass is complete to the 8.

[Mr. C]

Athens scrambles to the 3. 3rd and goal.

[Mr. C]

Illegal block in the back on Towson will move the ball back to the VU 14, 1st and goal again.

[Mr. C]

TWest runs to the 13. 2nd and goal.

[Mr. C]

West finds a seam and runs into the end zone.

[Mr. C]

Villanova 38, Towson 21, 2:50 left in the third period.

[Mr. C]

Quad formation left and Athens hits Darius Victor for two points

Villanova 38, Towson 22


20 plays, 90 yards, 7:46 on the drive

[VUCats02]

Got ourselves a 2 possession ball game

[Mr. C]

Suddenly it is a two-possession game.

[Mr. C]

Towson is 2-of-2 on two-point tries tonight and 3-of-3 for the season.