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Athlon has released their preseason Top 25 for the FCS, and expectations are going to be high again on the Main Line with the Villanova Wildcats ranked #8.
New head coach Mark Ferrante’s first season in charge will be bolstered by an offense that returns nine starters as well as All-American candidates in Rob Rolle and Ed Shockley on defense to lead a unit that was the best in the FCS a year ago.
The Wildcats are joined in the rankings by fellow CAA members James Madison Dukes (#2), Richmond Spiders (#7), New Hampshire Wildcats (#11) and Albany Great Danes (#20).
North Dakota State is back atop the preseason poll after having their dynasty halted last year by James Madison in the National Championship game.
Villanova Football’s 2017 schedule features games at James Madison, Albany and at home vs. Richmond. The ‘Cats also travel to #12 Albany to kick off the season on September 2nd.