Generals Look to Continue Success

LEXINGTON (WSLS 10 SPORTS) - Washington and Lee had their best season in school history in 2015. They went undefeated in the regular season for the first time in 54 years. The Generals have an unlimited supply of ammunition to help them win their third ODAC title under fifth year head coach Scott Abell.

"Our strength of our program and the strength of our university are our student-athletes and our football players mirror that each and every day and we're very blessed to have the group that we work with daily, they're hard working group," said Abell.

The Generals lost to Thomas More in the postseason last year but say the experience has carried over to this season.

"We haven't faced a team with the caliber of Thomas More so we were thrown off guard a little bit going into the playoffs," said running back Walker Brand.

In an effort to improve from their playoff loss just a year ago the Generals decided to open up against 17th ranked Johns Hopkins to start the 2016 season.

"You know those kind of games really build character and will help get us prepared not just for the ODAC but for other tough competition down the road," said Abell.

Another lethal weapon is the run game. It's a pivotal part of what they're able to do and it proved to be true last Saturday at Sewanee, where they rushed for more than 250 yards.

"Eight guys can carry the rock at one game at any given time so it's nice to know that we have guys who can fill in and really produce for our team," said quarterback Charlie Nelson.

With a solid group of DB's and linebacker Max Garrett, who led the team in tackles a year ago, the Generals are poised to do battle with anyone.

"When you play not to lose you really win and I really think that it's important for us to chase another good season," said Garrett.

"I don't think you're ever defending something you already gained so I think you're chasing the next title so you know that's really the mentality that we want them to take on the field," said Coach Abell.

The Generals have their first home game Saturday against Claremont.


About the Author:

Eric is no stranger to the Roanoke Valley. He is a Roanoke native and proud graduate of William Fleming High School.