It’s been quite a year to be a Richmond Spiders fan. The turmoil this program went through last year seems a distant memory now. First year Head Coach Danny Rocco has instilled a culture of hard work and responsibility that has laid a foundation for success for many years. The team fought hard to get big wins over Villanova and JMU that put them in the national spotlight. At this point last year, the Spiders were finishing the season 3-8 and now they have a chance to finish this season 8-3. Not only is that at stake in their matchup with William & Mary, but also a spot in the playoffs. With a win the Spiders will lock up a slot in the FCS’s field of 20, but even with a loss they are still in a position to receive an at-large bid.
As Richmond (7-3, 5-2 CAA) faces William & Mary (2-8, 1-6 CAA) they won’t be taking on the same Tribe team that has beaten the Spiders the past 2 seasons. It’s been a down year for long time Head Coach Jimmye Laycock’s injury plagued crew. They currently ride a 4-game losing streak but have fought hard in those losses. The Spiders defense has been playing at a high level this season. They currently lead the country in turnover margin (+20) and in interceptions (23). The offense seems to be rallying around Quarterback Michael Strauss. The redshirt-sophomore has 8 touchdowns and over 900 yards passing since taking over when John Laub went down with a broken ankle. Kendall Gaskins keeps climbing the ranks of greatest running backs to come out of Richmond. He is now tied for 3rd all-time in rushing touchdowns and has 14 on the season. Also Ben Edwards has turned into an absolute weapon with 67 receptions this season.
A playoff bid would be a great reward for a program that has fought hard to get away from the funk it was clouded with last season. With a win the Spiders will return to the playoffs for the 5th time in the past 6 years. Richmond will have to fight hard against a William & Mary that really has nothing to lose. Below I had a conversation with Richmond linebacker and team leader Darius McMillan. We discussed the task at hand for the Spiders and what a win would mean for him and the seniors. Click below
