News Summary
The Old Dominion University Monarchs celebrated a significant milestone by defeating the Liberty Flames 21-7, marking their 100th victory since the program’s inception in 2009. With this win, ODU improved to a 3-1 record, their best start since 2014. The Monarchs showcased a dominant performance, outgaining Liberty in total yards and first downs, and executed a crucial fourth-down stop that helped secure their victory. ODU looks to build on this momentum as they prepare to host Coastal Carolina next week.
Norfolk, Virginia – The Old Dominion University (ODU) Monarchs achieved a remarkable milestone in their football program by defeating the Liberty Flames 21-7 at S.B. Ballard Stadium, marking the program’s 100th victory since its inception in 2009. This win is particularly significant for ODU, which now boasts a 3-1 record for the first time since 2014 and has secured three consecutive wins, including a historic victory at Virginia Tech.
The Monarchs have broken a previous streak against Liberty, which had won four straight matchups from 2018 to 2022 with a dominant cumulative score of 173-61. Despite ODU’s notable win, Head Coach Ricky Rahne remarked that the performance was not the team’s best, emphasizing the importance of the victory nonetheless.
The ODU offense outperformed Liberty significantly, amassing a total of 483 yards compared to Liberty’s 210 yards. The Monarchs recorded 25 first downs, while Liberty managed to make only 10. ODU’s defense played a pivotal role, allowing only 210 yards, the fewest ever conceded against an FBS opponent.
Quarterback Colton Joseph led the Monarchs with an impressive performance, completing 18 of 26 passes for 271 yards and three touchdown passes, alongside rushing for 76 yards. Wide receiver Ja’Cory Thomas shone brightly, setting a career-high with 114 receiving yards, including a standout 55-yard touchdown catch. The first touchdown for ODU came from a 22-yard pass from Joseph to TJ Johnson, followed by a 31-yard touchdown pass to Thomas.
Both teams initially struggled offensively in the first quarter, combining for only 147 yards and nine first downs. Rainy weather conditions adversely affected the gameplay, leading to multiple turnovers. ODU itself committed four turnovers during the match. Liberty’s only touchdown occurred in the third quarter when Julian Gray scored on a four-yard run.
A critical moment in the game came when ODU’s defense executed a crucial fourth-down stop, regaining possession and aiding in maintaining their lead. This marks ODU’s first victory over Liberty since a narrow 21-17 win in 2013.
Looking ahead, ODU will be hosting Coastal Carolina next Saturday as they open their Sun Belt conference play. The Monarchs are now building momentum as they aim to continue their success in the upcoming games.
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Additional Resources
- ODU Sports: Ricky Rahne Press Conference
- WTKR: ODU Shifts Focus to Sun Belt Play
- USA Today: ODU vs Coastal Carolina Prediction
- Washington Post: Coastal Carolina vs ODU Preview
- Goccusports: Women’s Soccer Kicks Off Homestand
- Google Search: Old Dominion University
- Wikipedia: Old Dominion Monarchs Football
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Old Dominion University
- Google News: Old Dominion Football
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