The 2024 NCAA First Round of the FCS Playoffs kicks off with an exciting matchup between the Lehigh Mountain Hawks (8-3) and the Richmond Spiders (10-2). This game promises to deliver intense action as both teams battle for a spot in the next round of the prestigious championship. Let’s take a closer look at the key elements heading into this showdown.

Game Details

• Date & Time: November 30, 2024, 2:00 PM ET
• Location: Robins Stadium, Richmond, VA
• Coverage: ESPN+ (for streaming)
• Game Odds: Richmond is favored by 10.5 points with an over/under total set at 49.5 points.
• Live stream: Watch here

Team Overview

• Lehigh Mountain Hawks: Coming into this game with an 8-3 record, the Mountain Hawks are looking to make a statement in the FCS Playoffs after closing out the regular season with an impressive 38-14 win against Lafayette on November 23, 2024. Their offense has been solid, with H. Johnson leading the charge at quarterback, throwing for 1,030 yards and 8 touchdowns this season. Lehigh’s ground game is equally potent, as L. Yoder has rushed for 899 yards and 10 touchdowns. The team’s wide receiver, G. Jamiel, has been a reliable target with 46 receptions for 564 yards and 7 touchdowns.
• Richmond Spiders: Richmond enters the playoffs with a strong 10-2 record and a solid track record of success, including a 27-0 victory over William & Mary in their regular season finale. The Spiders’ quarterback, C. Coleman, has been a standout, throwing for 1,832 yards and 13 touchdowns this season. On the ground, Z. Palmer-Smith has been a workhorse, rushing for 1,326 yards and 11 touchdowns. Richmond’s offense is well-balanced, with N. DeGennaro leading the receiving corps with 576 yards and 4 touchdowns.

Key Matchup

The primary focus for both teams will likely be their offenses. Lehigh’s L. Yoder will try to power through Richmond’s defense with his hard-nosed rushing style, while C. Coleman will look to take advantage of the passing game and exploit any gaps in Lehigh’s defense. Both teams will need to stay disciplined and execute their game plans effectively to advance in the tournament.

Lehigh’s Path to the Playoffs

Lehigh has enjoyed a strong finish to the regular season, winning their final five games, including impressive victories over Colgate (45-17) and Georgetown (43-6). Their defense has stepped up in key moments, and the offense has found its rhythm, making them a dangerous team heading into the playoffs.

Richmond’s Path to the Playoffs

Richmond has been dominant throughout the season, with the Spiders winning their last five games. Their defense has been suffocating, particularly in their 27-0 victory over William & Mary. The Spiders are known for their ability to grind out victories in close games, as evidenced by their narrow wins over teams like Hampton and Campbell.

The Bottom Line

This matchup is expected to be an exciting clash of styles, with Lehigh’s physical, run-heavy offense squaring off against Richmond’s explosive, balanced attack. With the Spiders favored by 10.5 points, the game will likely hinge on whether Lehigh can control the tempo and limit Richmond’s offensive production. Look for both teams to come out with intensity as they battle for playoff survival.

Will Richmond’s powerful offense prove too much for Lehigh to handle, or will the Mountain Hawks upset the higher-seeded Spiders? Tune in to find out who advances to the next round of the 2024 FCS Playoffs.