Mark Ferrante Aims for Villanova’s Triumphant CAA Finale
Villanova football is poised for a significant milestone as they prepare to face Stony Brook in their final game in the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA). The matchup will take place on Saturday at 1 p.m. and marks the end of an era, as Villanova has been a member of the CAA since its formation in 1988. Coach Mark Ferrante emphasized the importance of this game, urging his players to finish strong and honor their history within the conference.
Significance of the Matchup
This Saturday’s game is especially meaningful for Villanova, as they will transition to the Patriot League starting in the 2026 season. The decision to leave the CAA was announced earlier this year, with the school citing better alignment with its academic and geographical goals. Villanova’s enduring presence in the CAA has shaped its football legacy, beginning with its FCS membership in 1985.
Wildcats’ Performance this Season
Villanova currently ranks second in the CAA standings with an impressive 7-2 record and a 6-1 conference mark. The Wildcats are riding a six-game winning streak, having recently broken into the top 10 of the FCS national rankings, and are now placed seventh according to the AFCA FCS Coaches Poll. An additional aim for the Wildcats will be to extend their 20-game home winning streak, a run that dates back to a loss against Monmouth on September 24, 2022.
Key Players to Watch
The running game has been a pillar of Villanova’s success. The Wildcats boast the second-best rushing offense in the CAA, averaging 174.1 yards per game. Three prominent sophomore running backs—David Avit, Isaiah Ragland, and Ja’briel Mace—are integral to the team’s strategy. In a recent game against Towson, Mace stepped up remarkably after Avit and Ragland were injured, setting a program record with 291 rushing yards and four touchdowns on 28 carries.
Stony Brook’s Challenge
Stony Brook (5-5, 3-3 CAA) will present a formidable challenge for Villanova. The Seawolves also focus on their running game, led by graduate running back Roland Dempster, who averages 97.2 rushing yards per game. Dempster not only excels in rushing but is also effective in the passing game, contributing an additional 27.3 receiving yards per game.
Moreover, Stony Brook’s offense has benefited from the emergence of redshirt freshman quarterback Quinn Boyd. He delivered a standout performance last week, earning CAA Rookie of the Week honors by completing 37 of 48 passes for 380 yards and three touchdowns against North Carolina A&T.
Coaching Insights
Coach Ferrante expressed confidence in his team’s development over the season, particularly in their defense. He noted that game experience plays a crucial role in growth, citing improvements in both the veteran offensive line and younger players in the secondary.
- Upcoming Game: Villanova vs. Stony Brook
- Date: Saturday, 1 p.m.
- Villanova Record: 7-2 (6-1 CAA)
- Stony Brook Record: 5-5 (3-3 CAA)
- Key Player for Villanova: Ja’briel Mace (Rushing Record: 291 yards)
- Key Player for Stony Brook: Roland Dempster (97.2 rushing yards/game)
The upcoming clash against Stony Brook promises to be an electrifying conclusion to Villanova’s journey in the CAA. With high stakes on the line, the Wildcats aim to solidify their impressive season as they transition to a new chapter in the Patriot League.
