Old Dominion Monarchs: The FBS Era Dawns Against Hampton

Saturday is almost upon us, and with it brings just another season opener for the Old Dominion Monarchs.

Wait. What's that, you say? It's their first game as a member of the Football Bowl Subdivision?

Yes, it's true. The Monarchs begin their FBS era by welcoming a local foe from FCS, the Hampton Pirates. The last time the two met was September 8, a 45-7 blowout win by the then-nationally ranked Monarchs. This time, since ODU is in FBS and Hampton's in FCS, prepare for total and utter domination.

OK, maybe not, but it will be a historic game nonetheless at Foreman Field. In all seriousness, this is a game the Monarchs should win fairly easily, because they're simply better at every position. That's not to mention quarterback. Last season, Hampton's starting QBs, combined, threw for 1,921 yards and 14 touchdowns. Taylor Heinicke, by himself, racked up 4,022 yards passing and 33 touchdowns–again, we stress, by himself. The entire Hampton offense put up 260 yards less than Heinicke's entire passing yardage.

So, there's that. In short, this looks like it will be a mere warmup for the Monarchs as they get ready for their first actual test in a week: the N.C. State Wolfpack in Raleigh.

Prediction: ODU 51, Hampton 6