Monmouth vs N.C. A&T: Bounce Back Game

A Crucial Showdown for Playoff Aspirations

Ranked No. 12/12 and riding an 8-2 record, the Monmouth Hawks face a critical test this Saturday against the North Carolina A&T Aggies. With Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) title hopes and playoff seeding on the line, Monmouth enters this matchup needing to rebound decisively after their first CAA loss to New Hampshire. The game kicks off at 12:00 p.m. ET on November 15, 2025, at Truist Stadium in Greensboro, North Carolina.

Monmouth's Mission: Reclaiming Dominance

Following their first CAA setback, Monmouth (8-2, 5-1 CAA) aims to prove last week's loss was an anomaly. The Hawks have historically responded well after defeats, posting a 1-0 record this season following a loss. However, they've struggled in North Carolina, falling 35-42 at Charlotte earlier this season. Head coach Kevin Callahan seeks his 197th career victory with a convincing performance that addresses two key areas:

• Offensive Revival: With Walter Payton Award frontrunner Derek Robertson sidelined by injury, redshirt freshman Frankie Weaver steps in as the starter. Weaver showed promise in his first two starts, completing 29-of-45 passes for 355 yards and two touchdowns. The offense must re-establish its dominant rushing attack led by Rodney Nelson, who leads FCS with 1,570 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns. Nelson's historic six consecutive 100-yard rushing games provides a foundation for success.
• Defensive Redemption: After allowing 31 points to New Hampshire, the defense must return to its mid-season form. The unit excelled in holding opponents to single digits twice this season and leads the CAA with 17 forced turnovers. Defensive end Josiah Graham (9.5 sacks) and linebacker Jaeden Jones (99 tackles) anchor a unit needing to contain N.C. A&T's passing attack.

N.C. A&T: Spoilers on Senior Day

The Aggies (2-8, 2-4 CAA) present an intriguing challenge despite their record. North Carolina A&T enters on a two-game losing streak, including a 62-9 drubbing by Towson and a 38-12 loss at Stony Brook – teams Monmouth defeated decisively. However, the Aggies possess dangerous elements:

• Pass Rush Prowess: Defensive end Marquise Hood leads the CAA with 8.5 sacks, creating constant pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
• Explosive Offensive Weapons: Quarterback Kevin White has thrown for 1,333 yards and seven touchdowns. Receivers Javonne Dillard (35-420-2) and Amonte Jones (25-359-1) provide big-play threats, averaging over 13 yards per reception.
• Home Field Advantage: Playing in front of their home crowd on Senior Day, the Aggies will be motivated to play spoiler for a playoff-bound team.

Key Matchup Scenarios

This game hinges on several critical battles:

1. Nelson vs. Aggie Front Seven: Can N.C. A&T's defense (ranked last in CAA in points allowed at 40.5) contain Monmouth's Heisman-caliber running back? Nelson's 5.4 yards-per-carry average could be decisive.
2. Weaver's Growth Test: The freshman quarterback faces his toughest test yet against Hood's relentless pass rush. His poise under pressure will determine if Monmouth can sustain drives without Robertson.
3. Turnover Battle: Monmouth's 17 forced turnovers this season must translate into points. The defense capitalizing on Aggie mistakes could be the difference in a potential shootout.

What's at Stake

For Monmouth, this isn't just about securing a victory. A convincing win:

• Boosts their resume for a potential CAA title game appearance
• Improves seeding for the FCS playoffs
• Validitates their status as a top-10 FCS program

North Carolina A&T, meanwhile, seeks a signature win to salvage their season and build momentum for head coach Shawn Gibbs' program. The Aggies have proven competitive in losses to Maine (37-30) and William & Mary (38-34), suggesting they can challenge elite teams on their best day.

Final Outlook

Expect a high-scoring affair where Monmouth's offensive firepower eventually overwhelms the Aggies. Nelson should eclipse 100 yards for the seventh straight game, while Graham adds to his sack total. The key will be avoiding a letdown after last week's loss – something Monmouth has successfully done all season. A win here keeps their championship aspirations alive, while a loss would raise serious questions about their resilience under pressure.