On August 28, 2024, Villanova University and the College of William & Mary will meet for the first time as members of the Patriot League, marking the start of a new conference chapter for both programs. The matchup signals a fresh competitive era after both schools departed the Coastal Athletic Association last season.
Coaches at the Helm
Mark Ferrante, who has guided Villanova for a decade and boasts a 69‑36 record with five playoff appearances and two conference titles, returns for his 40th year with the program. Across the field, Mike London, now in his eighth season at William & Mary and the third‑winningest head coach in school history with 105 career victories, prepares his squad for the challenge.
Villanova’s roster blends proven talent with new additions. Returning stars such as running backs Ja’briel Mace and Isaiah Ragland, who combined for over 1,700 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns last season, will anchor the offense. Sophomore wide receiver Braden Reed, who earned Third Team All‑CA A honors after 34 catches for 518 yards, is also set to contribute. The team added five transfers — Mikey Allen, Tyler Cain, Brody Eaton, Jake Hilton, and Dominic LeBlanc — to deepen depth.
William & Mary counters with its own playmakers. Juniors Mace and Ragland, now listed as running backs, will look to build on their previous production. The quarterback position hinges on Patrick McQuaide, whose eligibility remains uncertain after a Patriot League ruling granted an extra year of eligibility by an Ohio judge. If McQuaide is unavailable, freshman Nolan DiLucia or senior Robert Russo are poised to step in.
History and Recent Results
The all‑time series favors William & Mary, which leads 20‑17‑1, but Villanova snapped an 11‑game winning streak with a 31‑24 victory last season. That win, highlighted by David Avit’s 133 rushing yards and three touchdowns and linebacker Shane Hartzell’s 10 tackles including two sacks, underscored Villanova’s capability to compete in close contests.
The upcoming game will kick off at 6:00 p.m. at Villanova Stadium and will be streamed live on ESPN+. The broadcast will give viewers nationwide a front‑row view of what promises to be a pivotal early‑season test for both programs.
Villanova entered the 2026 Patriot League preseason poll atop the league, receiving seven first‑place votes, reflecting optimism about the team’s depth and coaching stability. William & Mary, while not favored in the poll, brings a tradition of resilience and a wealth of experience that could make the contest tightly contested.
Beyond the statistics, the matchup represents more than just a game; it is a statement of intent for both schools as they carve out their identities within the Patriot League. Fans on both sides will be watching closely as new storylines unfold, from the impact of transfers to the quarterback eligibility saga, all converging on a single night of football.