Following a double-overtime victory against Kent State University, Marshall University’s football team begins conference play Saturday at Joan C. Edwards Stadium.
Marshall (3-1) will host Old Dominion University (2-2) 3:30 p.m. its first conference match of the season.
Marshall head coach Doc Holliday said the Monarchs’ offensive experience is what stands out most to him.
“Their receivers are back and we had great respect for them a year ago,” Holliday said. “They’ve got a tremendous tailback. Their center is new but the rest of (the offensive line) is back.”
After opening the season 2-0, the Monarchs suffered back-to-back losses against North Carolina State University and Appalachian State University.
In both of the Monarchs’ victories, running back Ray Lawry surpassed the 200-yard mark, setting a new career-high with his 223-yard effort against Eastern Michigan University Sept. 5.
Despite Lawry’s success on the ground, Marshall linebacker Evan McKelvey said Old Dominion is known for its passing game.
“What I know about ODU is that they pass the ball,” McKelvey said. “They’re known for passing the ball and going for it on fourth down, but I’m sure that they have more to bring to the table.”
Marshall’s rushing attack, however, may be without starting running back Devon Johnson, who is listed as day-to-day after suffering an injury against Kent State.
Marshall defeated Old Dominion 56-14 last season in Norfolk, Virginia as Johnson rushed for 198 yards and three touchdowns.
Ishmael Witten can be contacted at [email protected].