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Editor's Note: Each Tuesday we'll be giving you some high-level information on Villanova's next football opponent as a primer for the weekend.
Game Day Vitals
Matchup: Villanova Wildcats (1-1, 0-0 CAA) vs. Rhode Island Rams (0-1, 0-0 CAA)
Date/Time: September 15th, 2012, 3:30 pm ET at Villanova Stadium
Where To Watch: Comcast SportsNet (Philadelphia-area) | Nova Nation All-Access | 920 WHJJ
Tickets: Villanova Ticket Office | Seating Chart
Opponent Information
Opponent Profile: The Rhode Island Rams, also known as Rhody, are a member of the Colonial Athletic Association for football only, and are a member of the Atlantic 10 for all other sports. Fordham finished the 2011 season 3-8, and finished 2-6 in the CAA. Rhode Island has decided to remain in the CAA moving forward, having previously considered moving to the Northeast Conference for football. They had been in the process of reducing their scholarships to comply with NEC rules (a limit of 40), but will now ramp back up to a full FCS allowance to remain in the CAA.
Last Week: A 41-6 loss at Monmouth. Rhode Island remains in the midst of an 8-game losing streak dating back to last season.
Other Coverage: RI Insider
Coaches & Players
Head Coach: Joe Gainer begins his fourth season at the helm of Rhody. Trainer took control of the team in 2008 after serving one season as defensive coordinator. Prior to URI Trainer was at Millersville University and prior to that spent 8 seasons at Villanova. He started out as the linebackers coach before being promoted to defensive coordinator in 2005. Trainer saw 2 conference championships come to Villanova during his time on the coaching staff.
Top Assistants: Roy Istvan enters his 2nd season in charge of the Rhody offense. The Rams increased their offensive output by 11 touchdowns last season from 2010. Mike Vaganek was promoted to defensive coordinator for the 2012 season, having previously coached the defensive line.
Most Famous Football Alum: Steve Furness, a 1972 graduate who went on to play 9 seasons in the NFL with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Detroit Lions. Part of the famous 'Steel Curtain' defense, Furness finished 12th all-time on the Steelers' sack leaders list. He turned down an invitation to the 1972 Olympic trials in the hammer throw event to pursue his football career.
Key Offensive Players: QB Bob Bentsen | RB Ayo Isijola | WR Ramadan Abdullah
Key Defensive Players: LB Dave Zocco | LB Doug Johnson | DL Damen Vargas
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