Introduction
The rivalry between the College of William & Mary (W&M) and Norfolk State University (NSU) is one of the most intense in the Football Championship Series (FCS). Both schools are located in Virginia, and their proximity has fueled a heated competition that spans decades. This article will delve into the various aspects of the W&M vs NSU rivalry, providing a comprehensive analysis of the teams, their histories, and the factors that make their matchups so captivating.
Historical Overview
The first meeting between W&M and NSU took place in 1978, with the Spartans emerging victorious by a score of 14-7. Since then, the two teams have met 24 times, with W&M holding a slight edge in the series, winning 13 games to NSU’s 11. The most recent matchup occurred in 2021, with W&M posting a 53-28 victory.
Team Strengths and Weaknesses
W&M
Strengths:
- Passing Attack: The Tribe boasts one of the most potent passing offenses in the FCS, led by quarterback Darius Wilson. Wilson has thrown for over 2,000 yards and 20 touchdowns in each of the past two seasons.
- Defensive Line: W&M’s defensive line has been a force to be reckoned with, generating consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks and creating turnovers.
Weaknesses:
- Running Game: The Tribe has struggled to establish a consistent running game, which can make them one-dimensional on offense.
- Special Teams: W&M’s special teams unit has been inconsistent at times, costing them crucial points in close games.
NSU
Strengths:
- Rushing Attack: NSU’s rushing attack is one of the most dangerous in the FCS, featuring a stable of talented running backs led by J.J. Davis.
- Secondary: The Spartans’ secondary is a strength, with a veteran group of defensive backs who excel at creating turnovers.
Weaknesses:
- Passing Offense: NSU’s passing offense has been inconsistent, with quarterback Otto Kuhns struggling to find a reliable target at times.
- Defensive Front: The Spartans’ defensive front can be vulnerable to power running teams, and they have allowed a significant number of rushing yards in recent games.
Rivalry Factors
Beyond the on-field battles between W&M and NSU, there are several factors that contribute to the intensity of the rivalry:
- Proximity: The two schools are located just 30 miles apart, which makes it easy for fans to travel to each other’s stadiums.
- Conference Affiliation: Both W&M and NSU compete in the CAA Football conference, which further fuels the rivalry and adds to the stakes of each matchup.
- Student Body Rivalry: There is a strong rivalry between the student bodies of W&M and NSU, which often manifests itself in spirited exchanges on social media and in the stands.
Gameday Atmosphere
The gameday atmosphere at W&M vs NSU matchups is electric. The Tribe and Spartan faithful pack the stands, creating a raucous and unforgettable experience. The student sections engage in friendly banter, while the bands and cheerleading squads add to the excitement. The atmosphere is heightened even further when the game is played at Zable Stadium in Williamsburg, W&M’s home field, which is known for its intimate and passionate atmosphere.
Memorable Matchups
There have been numerous memorable matchups between W&M and NSU over the years. Here are a few that stand out:
- 2015: NSU stunned W&M 20-17 in Williamsburg, dethroning the reigning FCS champions and securing their first victory over the Tribe since 2004.
- 2017: W&M defeated NSU 31-28 in overtime, securing the CAA Football championship and earning a berth in the FCS playoffs.
- 2021: W&M posted a dominant 53-28 victory over NSU in Norfolk, led by a record-breaking performance from Darius Wilson.
Conclusion
The rivalry between W&M and NSU is one of the most intense and enduring in the FCS. The close proximity of the two schools, the conference affiliation, and the spirited student body rivalry contribute to the passion and excitement that surrounds each matchup. With both teams boasting talented players and dedicated fan bases, the future is bright for this storied rivalry.
Additional Information
Tables
| Year | Winner | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 1978 | NSU | 14-7 |
| 1981 | W&M | 21-14 |
| 1983 | W&M | 21-17 |
| 1985 | W&M | 28-0 |
| 1987 | NSU | 20-17 |
| 1989 | NSU | 24-21 |
| 1991 | W&M | 31-21 |
| 1993 | W&M | 17-10 |
| 1995 | NSU | 20-14 |
| 1997 | W&M | 24-7 |
| 1999 | NSU | 21-14 |
| 2001 | W&M | 31-14 |
| 2003 | W&M | 38-17 |
| 2004 | NSU | 23-20 |
| 2006 | W&M | 34-24 |
| 2008 | NSU | 24-21 |
| 2010 | W&M | 38-21 |
| 2012 | NSU | 23-21 |
| 2015 | NSU | 20-17 |
| 2017 | W&M | 31-28 (OT) |
| 2019 | NSU | 31-24 |
| 2021 | W&M | 53-28 |
| Category | W&M | NSU |
|---|---|---|
| Wins | 13 | 11 |
| Losses | 11 | 13 |
| Conference Championships | 8 | 1 |
| Playoff Appearances | 7 | 6 |
Effective Strategies
Teams looking to gain an edge in the W&M vs NSU rivalry can employ the following strategies:
- Control the Clock: Both W&M and NSU have offenses that excel when they can maintain possession of the ball. Teams should focus on establishing a strong running game and executing time-consuming drives.
- Generate Pressure: The defenses of both teams can be vulnerable to pressure. Teams should blitz effectively and try to force turnovers by disrupting the opposing quarterback.
- Exploit Defensive Weaknesses: W&M’s passing game can be exploited by teams with a strong secondary, while NSU’s running game can be neutralized by a physical defensive front.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Increased Excitement: The rivalry between W&M and NSU generates a lot of excitement and passion, which can create a memorable gameday experience.
- Local Pride: The rivalry has become a source of local pride for both Williamsburg and Norfolk, fostering a sense of community and unity.
- Economic Impact: The rivalry attracts a significant number of fans to the area, which has a positive impact on the local economy.
Cons:
- Negative Behavior: The intensity of the rivalry can sometimes lead to negative behavior from fans, both on and off the field.
- Costly Rivalries: Preparing for and hosting a rivalry game can be costly for the schools involved.
- Distraction from Academics: The intense focus on the rivalry can distract students from their academic studies.
FAQs
1. When is the next W&M vs NSU game?
– The next W&M vs NSU game is scheduled for September 23, 2023 at Zable Stadium in Williamsburg, Virginia.
2. What is the all-time series record between W&M and NSU?
– W&M holds a slight edge in the all-time series record, with 13 wins to NSU’s 11.
3. Which team has won the last matchup between W&M and NSU?
– W&M won the most recent matchup in 2021, posting a 53-28 victory over NSU.
4. Which team is favored to win the next W&M vs NSU game?
– W&M is currently favored to win the next matchup based on their recent performance and home-field advantage.
5. Are there any famous alumni who played in the W&M vs NSU rivalry?
– Yes, there are several famous alumni who played in the W&M vs NSU rivalry, including:
– Michael Vick (W&M)
– Isaiah Hodgins (NSU)
– Brandon Marshall (NSU
