US Trending News: Old Dominion Football: Latest Updates, Roster, and Game Highlights

Old Dominion Football has been making waves in the college football scene, with a mix of promising talent, strategic scheduling, and growing fan support. As the 2024 season approaches, the Monarchs are looking to build on their progress and make a statement in the Sun Belt Conference. This article dives into the latest updates, key players, and standout performances from the team.

Old Dominion Football Schedule: A Challenging Road Ahead

The 2024 season for Old Dominion is packed with exciting matchups that will test the team’s resilience and depth. The Monarchs have a total of 13 games on their schedule, including eight contests within the Sun Belt Conference. Their non-conference slate features two Group of Five opponents—East Carolina and Bowling Green—and two high-profile Power Five games against South Carolina and Virginia Tech.

Here’s a breakdown of the 2024 schedule:

August 31: @ South Carolina
September 7: vs. East Carolina
September 14: vs. Virginia Tech
September 28: @ Bowling Green
October 5: @ Coastal Carolina
October 12: @ Georgia State
October 19: vs. Texas State
October 24: vs. Georgia Southern
November 2: @ App State
November 16: vs. JMU
November 23: vs. Marshall
November 30: @ Arkansas State
December 7: Sun Belt Championship

This mix of challenging opponents should provide valuable experience and help the team prepare for the postseason.

Roster Highlights: Key Players to Watch

One of the most anticipated returnees for the 2024 season is LB Jason Henderson, who was named an AP Second Team All-American in 2023 and Third Team in 2022. His 436 total career tackles are a school record, and his leadership on defense is crucial for the Monarchs’ success.

Henderson suffered an injury last season but is expected to be fully healthy in 2025. His return could stabilize the linebacker unit, which has struggled at times in recent years. Other key contributors include Ja’Cory Thomas, a junior wide receiver who had a strong performance in the recent win over Appalachian State.

Thomas caught six passes for 65 yards and a touchdown in that game, marking his first score since Week 5. His ability to make big plays in critical moments makes him a vital part of the offense.

Coaching and Leadership: What to Expect in 2024

Head coach Ricky Rahne has faced criticism in recent seasons, with the team finishing with at least seven losses in three of the past four years. However, there are signs that the program is turning a corner. The return of Henderson and other experienced players could help Rahne build a more consistent defense.

In a recent analysis, RJ Young ranked Old Dominion at No. 102 in his Ultimate 136 College Football Rankings, noting that the team could potentially reach eight wins if they improve their offensive output. “If Ricky Rahne isn’t on the hot seat, it’s because it’s broken,” Young wrote. “He’s gone 20-30 as head coach of the Monarchs.”

Despite the challenges, the Monarchs have shown flashes of potential, and with better execution on both sides of the ball, they could be a force to be reckoned with in the Sun Belt.

Recent Game Highlights: A Win Against Appalachian State

In one of the most recent standout performances, Old Dominion secured a 24-21 victory over Appalachian State. The win was fueled by strong play from the defense and a clutch performance from Ja’Cory Thomas.

Thomas, who had previously gone without a touchdown for several weeks, broke through with a 24-yard reception in the third quarter. This marked his first touchdown of the season and helped the Monarchs maintain their lead.

“Thomas tied his season high with six receptions on Saturday,” noted a recent report. “The touchdown was the wideout’s first since Week 5 when he scored two in a win over Liberty.”

This performance highlights the importance of having reliable playmakers on the roster and shows that the team is capable of delivering big plays when it matters most.

Odds and Expectations: Can Old Dominion Break Through?

Looking ahead to the 2024 season, the odds for Old Dominion’s win total are set at Over 5.5 (-170) and Under 5.5 (+138). These lines suggest that the team is expected to finish around five or six wins, depending on how well they perform in key matchups.

For the Monarchs to exceed expectations, they’ll need to improve their offensive production and limit the number of games where they give up 30 or more points. With a stronger defense and more consistency on offense, Old Dominion could be in position to challenge for a Sun Belt title.

What’s Next for Old Dominion Football?

As the 2024 season approaches, fans of Old Dominion Football can look forward to a competitive schedule, a returning star in Jason Henderson, and a chance to see if the program can take the next step in its development.

With a mix of experienced players and emerging talent, the Monarchs are poised to make an impact in the Sun Belt. Whether they can translate that potential into wins remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Old Dominion Football is on the rise.

Stay Updated with the Latest News

For more updates on Old Dominion Football, follow along with the latest news, game highlights, and expert analysis. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just getting into college football, there’s always something new to discover about this rising program.

Author: Alex Carter

Title/Role: Sports Writer and Analyst

Credentials: Alex has covered college football for over a decade, with a focus on under-the-radar programs and emerging talent. He has contributed to major sports publications and is known for his in-depth analysis of team performance and strategy.

Profile Link: https://www.alex-carter-sports.com

Sources:

– RJ Young’s Ultimate 136 College Football Rankings

– Old Dominion Football Official Website

– College Football Data Warehouse

Call to Action:

Stay updated with the latest news on Old Dominion Football and other trending US sports stories. Explore today’s headlines and keep up with the action as it happens.