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 "Photo: Courtesy of The Helmet Project")
Time: 3:30 p.m.
Location: Richmond, Va.
About the Teams:
The Hens:
The Hens finally regained stability at the quarterback position after Lou Ritacco started, throwing for a solid 225 yards and a touchdown. His unexpected return from injury helped Delaware beat CAA rival Towson 31-21 in Saturday's matchup, helping the Hens (4-6, 2-4 CAA) avoid their worst losing streak since 1983. The return of versatile running back Kervin Michaud adds another dangerous element to the offense.
The Spiders:
No. 7 Richmond's runningback Josh Vaughan amassed 240 rushing yards on the way to their dismantling of Hofstra in Saturday's 31-14 victory. The Spiders' defense has been stifling all season - in fact the touchdown they allowed against Hofstra in the third quarter was the first touchdown they allowed since one against Massachusetts on Oct.18.
Why the Hens can win:
Quarterback back : With Ritacco recovered from his fractured occipital lobe and able to take over the offense capably, the Hens are back on track. After two weeks of meager passing, the Hens benefitted greatly from having a quarterback back in position to make throws. The return of wide receiver Aaron Love and tight end Robbie Agnone to their natural positions allowed the offense to flourish.
Never again?: Though they are out of playoff contention, the Hens can bring their record back to an even 4-4 in the CAA if they can go undefeated in their last two games of the season. The team also has the chance to avoid a losing season if they win out, by bringing their season record to 6-6 and living up to last year's motto of "never again."
Why the Hens could lose:
Running wild: If Delaware is unable to stop the potent rushing attack of Richmond, they will be in trouble throughout the game, as clock control will be a key to holding off the Spiders late. On the flipside, Michaud will need to make sure he gets rid of any rust so the Hens can keep the ball on the ground against Richmond's formidable defense.
Easy pickin's : The Spiders have an outstanding 14 interceptions on the season, and the focus will be on Ritacco to protect the ball through the air so the Hens will not end up with a negative turnover differential. That statistic will be key in ensuring the team can stay competitive against a consistent, aggressive Spiders team.
The Numbers:
2 - The receptions wide receiver Aaron Love needs to match Eddie Conti's school record, set in 1998.
2 - The number of Hens returning from what were initially thought to be season-ending injuries (Ritacco, Michaud). Both were instrumental in Saturday's win.
The Prediction:
Like their game two weeks ago against JMU, this seems to be a mismatch for Delaware, but there is reason to be hopeful. With two key positions on offense set again, a slew of running options and a team determined to get their record back to .500, the Hens will surely put up a fight. Unfortunately, it may not be enough, as Richmond will be no slouch. If Delaware's defense is not able to slow down Richmond's prolific offense, the Hens will be in trouble early and often.
Richmond 31, Hens 17
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