William and Mary-Villanova preview

TV: CSN/Radio: WTEL-AM 610.

Records: William and Mary (2-2, 1-0 CAA), Villanova (2-2, 1-0).

Last meeting: Villanova won, 35-31, on Oct. 18, 2014, at William & Mary.

The Wildcats have turned the page, difficult as it must be, from John Robertson. Like it or not, the Zach Bednarczyk Era has arrived at least a year earlier than anticipated. In his second start since replacing Robertson, look for the Wildcats to allow the redshirt freshman to use his legs more to make plays.

Expect the Wildcats to try to establish the running game early. Last week in a loss to Delaware, the Tribe surrendered 347 yards on the ground. Villanova needs a breakout performance from either Gary Underwood or Javon White.

William and Mary has an excellent running game when Mikal Abdul-Saboor and Kendell Anderson are healthy. However, Abdul-Saboor missed the Delaware game with an injury. The Wildcats have been preparing as if he will play. However, his status for Saturday is unclear.

In the last 14 games following a bye, the Wildcats are 12-2. Last year following a bye the Wildcats defeated James Madison 49-31 at Villanova Stadium.

All five meetings between these teams have been decided by seven points or fewer. Villanova has won three of them; the Tribe lead the series, 16-15-1.

Bednarczyk is just the second left-handed quarterback to start for Andy Talley in 31 years as head coach. The other: Christian Culicerto, a walk-on who started three games during the 2011 season.

- John N. Mitchell