Football Returns to Foreman Field: A Photo Essay

ODU football returned to the campus last Saturday when the Monarchs hosted Howard in their first home game of the season. After opening losses on the road to East Carolina and Maryland, ODU was eager to get in the win column, and dominated the visiting Bison. As in previous seasons, tailgating abounded throughout the campus, and by game time the stands were packed with cheering Monarch fans.

The Monarchs scored 28 first-quarter points and never looked back, taking a 49-10 halftime lead and winning by a final score of 76-19. The 76 points is a new school record, surpassing the 70 the Monarchs scored last season against Campbell.

Taylor Heinicke passed for 406 yards and tossed four touchdowns; he also ran for one TD. Colby Goodwyn ran for 79 yards, while Zach Pascal caught a career-high nine passes for 124 yards. The Monarch defense forced five turnovers, as D.J. Simond and Reggie Owens intercepted passes, and forced three fumbles.

ODU hosts The Citadel at 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21.

Photos by Chuck Thomas

Coach Bobby Wilder leads the assistant coaches, trainers and players on the traditional walk across campus to Foreman Field at S.B. Ballard Stadium.

Freshman Jake Walsh encourages the ODU faithful to make more noise as the team runs onto the field.

Cheerleaders race across the field with the ODU letter banners.

Tailgaters get into the spirit of the afternoon, leading up to the 6 p.m. kickoff.

Creativity is often the name of the game when tailgating.

Quarterback Taylor Heinicke looks for a receiver downfield.

Senior John Darr, left, and junior Preston Smith wrap up a Howard runner.

Senior Aaron Evans carries the ball.

Freshman C.J. Bradshaw is finally brought down after a gain.

Backup quarterback David Washington looks to throw after being chased from the pocket.

Saturday night lights, aided by the moon in a clear sky, return to Foreman Field at S.B. Ballard Stadium.