The Richmond Spiders returned home to a sold out Robins Stadium last Saturday. Because of the better weather the atmosphere that day made the home opener seem like it was played on another planet. The No. 4 Old Dominion Monarchs came to campus after following a week their offense made national headlines. In what was a good start for the Spiders turned into an ugly end to the first half with Old Dominion leading 38-14. Everything would change in the second half. Richmond was able to get a career long 38-yd field goal from kicker Remington Hinshaw, and then a 22 yard interception return for a touchdown from defensive back Doug Howell that provided a spark to the sideline and the stadium. The Spiders were able to outscore the Monarchs 20-0 in the fourth quarter but the rally came up short in the end as they lost ODU 45-37.
Despite not picking up the victory it was a big day for a couple of Spiders. Quarterback John Laub had a career high of 339 passing yards with 182 of those going to Ben Edwards. The junior wide receiver from Yorktown went ballistic that day as he also had a career high of 207 all-purpose yards. On the defensive side of the ball the Spiders also got a pick from defensive back Wayne Pettus and 12 tackles from safety Cooper Taylor and defensive lineman Evan Kelly. With the loss behind them Richmond is now focused on Villanova who they will take on this Saturday at Goodreau Field in Philadelphia. The Wildcats boast the 2nd best defense in the CAA but the Spiders have the 3rd best offense. Richmond is (3-2, 1-1 CAA) while Villanova is (4-1, 2-0 CAA).
