For the Towson University football team to get into the NCAA Division I-AA playoffs, it must get back to basics.
The No. 24 Tigers (7-3 overall, 4-3 Atlantic 10 Conference) did that Saturday, defeating then-No. 25 Richmond, 31-7, behind a balanced offensive attack and a technically sound defense.
“Our kicking game really played well, and except for the turnovers and the opening kickoff situation, we played extremely well,” Towson coach Gordy Combs said.
The Spiders? lone score came on the opening kickoff. But otherwise, the kicking game was a highlight for Towson, as opposed to games earlier in the year when Tigers? kickers missed short field goals and extra points.
Sophomore kicker Mark Bencivengo drove six kickoffs either into or out of the end zone.
“Never seen that,” Combs said.
The defense had a strong game, as well, with emotional leader Brian Bradford returning to the lineup at linebacker after missing time with a knee injury. And sophomore defensive back Drew Mack picked off two passes, returning one 49 yards for a touchdown. He was named Atlantic 10 defensive player of the week.
“We knew we had to play well to keep the playoff chances alive,” Combs said.
Towson now turns its focus to No. 7 James Madison, which invades Unitas Stadium Saturday for a 1 p.m. clash. With seven wins and a return to the top 25, Combs said his team is right where he expected they?d be heading into the regular-season finale.
“With so many starters back on both sides of the ball, I just felt that we had a real good opportunity to progress and be a real good football team,” Combs said.
The team believes, too.
Combs said his players are hungry.
“Just seeing a couple around [on Monday?s day off], they wanted to practice today,” Combs said. “There?s no doubt they?ll be ready to play this game. I know the administration is trying to get as many people out as they can.”
The Tigers signed autographs for fans before the basketball team?s home opener Monday and are slated to hold a tailgate event at Newell Hall Thursday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Combs is hoping for a good turnout for arguably the biggest game in recent Towson history.
“If we win, we go,” Combs said.
