W&M 37-7 Over Albany: 3 Blocked Punts, Unbeaten Home

**William & Mary Crushes Albany, Special Teams Shines in Dominant 37-7 Victory**

Williamsburg, VA — William & Mary delivered a comprehensive performance “this past Saturday”, October 28, dismantling the Albany Great Danes 37-7 in front of a spirited home crowd at Zable Stadium. The victory not only extended the Tribe’s perfect home record but was highlighted by an extraordinary showing from its special teams unit, which blocked an astonishing three punts, each resulting in a safety.

The Tribe’s offense was efficient and potent, with junior quarterback Tyler Hughes orchestrating the attack. Hughes completed 19 of 27 passes for 245 yards, including a perfectly placed touchdown strike that showcased his growing command of the offense. Running back Rashad Raymond was equally effective on the ground, churning out 76 crucial rushing yards and finding the end zone for a touchdown, contributing to a balanced offensive effort that kept Albany’s defense on its heels.

However, the undisputed stars of the afternoon were William & Mary’s special teams. In a display of relentless pressure and precise execution, the unit managed to block three separate Albany punts. Each blocked kick subsequently led to a safety for the Tribe, a rare feat in collegiate football that demonstrably shifted momentum and padded the scoreline. The impact of these plays was profound, underscoring the team’s commitment to winning in all three phases of the game.

Head Coach Mike London praised his team’s effort and the historic special teams performance. “Our guys came out focused and executed the game plan exceptionally well,” London commented after the game. “To block three punts and turn them into safeties – that’s a testament to our players’ effort, our coaches’ preparation, and the belief we have in every facet of our game. It really energized the whole stadium.”

The Tribe’s defense was equally formidable, stifling Albany’s offense throughout the contest and holding them to a mere seven points. This stout defensive effort, combined with the offensive production and special teams heroics, ensured Albany never posed a significant threat.

The win improves William & Mary’s overall record to a formidable 6-2 (4-1 CAA), maintaining their strong position within the highly competitive Colonial Athletic Association Football conference. Their perfect home record at Zable Stadium has become a source of pride and a significant advantage as the season progresses. The Tribe is currently ranked #7 in the latest STATS Perform FCS Top 25 poll, reflecting their consistent performance.

Albany (5-3, 3-1 CAA) entered the game with a respectable record but could not match the intensity and execution of William & Mary.

Next up, William & Mary will face a critical road test against the Villanova Wildcats on Saturday, November 4, a game that could have significant implications for the CAA Football championship race. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. at Villanova Stadium. For more information on William & Mary football, visit TribeAthletics.com.