Plans for homecoming in Norfolk were stunted as Tropical Storm Ophelia swept through the east coast. The parade and tailgating were cut from pregame activities due to the high winds in the area. Rain had fallen, but all precipitation ceased by kickoff and the game remained overcast and dry. The result on the field also didn’t go according to plan as Old Dominion struggled mightily against their FCS guest.
A scoreless game at half delivered concern through the fans at S.B. Ballard Stadium as both offenses stumbled and the Monarchs got careless with the ball. The visiting Lions dented the scoreboard first with a field goal late in the third quarter. ODU answered with an 84-yard drive releasing a cacophony of relief from the stands. An additional field goal put the Monarchs up 10-3.
But, Texas A&M-Commerce would put together a touchdown drive with 28 seconds left on the clock. The decision was to go for two and get out of Norfolk with a shocking upset. However, Lamereon James thwarted the Lions’ plans as he intercepted the conversion attempt and Old Dominion escaped 10-9.
While the day didn’t pan out quite as anticipated, the weather cooperated, and the Monarchs still came away with a victory. Despite their team’s underwhelming performance on the gridiron, Old Dominion fans kept the energy high and created a boisterous environment for homecoming.
