By Joshua Average

OXFORD, Ohio. (FSPN) — Miami (OH) Head Coach Doc JaAm could only watch helplessly as the quarter back of the #24 Old Dominion Monarchs kneeled to run out the clock. With that, the Redhawks’ spirited Week 3 comeback attempt was halted three points short.

A score of 14-7 in ODU’s favor through three quarters left most fans unaware that fourth quarter action would be much different. Those who stayed in their seats until the end were treated to a jam-packed 7 minutes of gameplay.

ODU got things started 46 seconds into the period with a 13-yard TD run as the halfback cut right to avoid a tackle and found himself in the endzone. This made the score 21-7 in Old Dominion’s favor and gave many fans a reason to find their way to the exits. The Redhawk offense went no-huddle in an attempt to get the ball down the field without wasting too much time. Coach JaAm said this was the best approach as his offense was in a good position to move the ball in the fourth quarter.

“We got more used to the opposing defense at that point. We didn’t know much about what was coming at the start of the game with a new coach and all, so it took a little while to get adjusted, but once we did, we felt like we had their weaknesses down.”

Miami (OH) found the endzone soon after with a 62-yard TD catch and run by their talented wideout. The PAT was good and they kicked the ball away with 5:30 left in the game, still trailing 21-14. Old Dominion began chewing the clock and running the ball, with the exception of a 55 yard play-action pass that caught the Redhawk defense off-guard. The Miami (OH) free safety made a touchdown-saving tackle and the Monarchs were forced to kick a 21-yard field goal three plays later. Coach JaAm was contemplative when asked about the high number of short yardage plays his team produced during the contest.

“The lack of big plays hurt us in the end. In the future, I may pay more attention to the tens and ones digits throughout the game if that means I can get an 80 yard pass when it’s needed rather than 8 10 yard passes.”

Miami (OH) was able to score on a 14-yard pass play with 0:33 left in the game and cut the deficit to 24-21. The onside kick failed and the Redhawks watched the Monarchs celebrate a close victory.

Coach JaAm was optimistic looking ahead to the rest of the season and conference play.

“The MAC is very strong this season, it’s hard to tell. Overall, I’m confident in our team’s play and believe our performance since I’ve taken over has shown we will be a strong competitor. I expect us to be near the top in the end, and I hope the dominoes fall so we are the top.”

Old Dominion moves to 3-0 and looks to stay in the Top 25 next week, while Miami (OH) falls to 2-1 and looks to rebound vs. Eastern Michigan.