Can Old Dominion Football Rebound After Last Season's Disappointing Results?
As I sit here reviewing last season's game tapes, I can't help but feel that familiar mix of frustration and anticipation about Old Dominion's football program. Let's be honest - that 3-9 record last season was tough to swallow, especially after the promising 6-6 campaign the year before. I've been covering college football for over fifteen years now, and what fascinates me about ODU isn't just the numbers, but the psychology of how a team bounces back from disappointment.
I recently came across RHJ's comments after winning the championship that really struck a chord with me personally. He said, "Last conference didn't end well for me and I understood that. I felt like everything is a motivation. Not doing well last conference? A lot of things motivate me." That mindset is exactly what separates teams that stay down from those that rise again. I've seen this pattern repeatedly in my career - the most dangerous teams aren't necessarily the most talented ones, but those playing with something to prove. Last season, ODU's offense averaged just 21.3 points per game, ranking them 115th nationally, while the defense allowed 31.6 points, placing them 102nd in FBS. Those numbers need to change dramatically, but what gives me hope is seeing how Coach Rahne has been using last season's disappointment as fuel during spring practices.
From what I've observed attending several practice sessions, there's a different energy this year. The players aren't shying away from last season's failures - they're embracing them as motivation. I noticed particular improvement in the offensive line, which gave up 38 sacks last season. They've been working extensively with new offensive coordinator Kevin Decker, whose previous team put up impressive numbers averaging 445 yards per game. Personally, I believe this coaching change could be the catalyst ODU needs, though I'll admit I'm somewhat skeptical about how quickly the new system can be implemented effectively.
The quarterback situation looks more promising than last year. Grant Wilson showed flashes of brilliance despite throwing 14 interceptions, and I'm hearing good things about his development during offseason workouts. What often gets overlooked in rebuilds is the mental aspect - that's where RHJ's championship mentality becomes relevant. When players internalize failure as motivation rather than defeat, you see different results in close games. Remember, ODU lost four games by a touchdown or less last season. With just slightly better execution in crucial moments, this could easily have been a 7-5 team.
Looking at their schedule, I count at least eight winnable games if the defense improves even marginally. The secondary particularly concerns me - they allowed 265 passing yards per game last season, which simply won't cut it in today's college football landscape. However, I'm optimistic about the incoming recruiting class, especially the three-star defensive backs who could provide immediate depth. My prediction? ODU finishes 7-5 this season and makes a bowl game. They have the motivation, they've addressed some key weaknesses, and most importantly, they've adopted that underdog mentality that often produces surprising results. The Monarchs aren't just playing for wins this season - they're playing to prove that last year was an aberration, not their identity.
