ARMY FIRST LOOK: FORDHAM

The Army West Point Black Knights open the 2017 season on Friday when they host FCS opponent Fordham at Michie Stadium. Here is your first look at the Fordham Rams.

WHAT WE KNOW

Well, we know Army can’t afford to overlook Fordham; they did that in 2015 and came away with a 37-35 loss. Last season Fordham finished its season 8-3 with the biggest win coming over Elizabeth City State, 83-21. RB Chase Edmonds (1,799 yards, 19 TDs) is apparently the real deal. He’s the preseason Patriot Athletic Conference Player of the Year. Quarterback Kevin Anderson (2,724 yards, 27 TDs, 4 Int.) was selected to the first team preseason All-Patriot squad. Fordham has ranked 22nd in the FCS preseason poll. This looks like a balanced offense. Defensively the Rams are less impressive, giving up over 30 points a game. Defensive lineman Manny Adeyeye (16 tackles, 3 sacks in ’16) and DB Caleb Ham (62 tackles, 3 INTs) are two to watch on that side of the ball.

INJURIES AND SUSPENSION

None reported.

CHALLENGES

How could a team show up for its season opener? Ask the 2015 Black Knight squad that, they lost to the Rams in the opener. In that Army squad’s defense, Fordham in 2015 was a pretty good team. Jeff Monken has done well at improving the talent level at Army but the Black Knights must still respect the Rams in 2017. There are no gimmicks to Army defeating Fordham. They must execute their offense efficiently to keep the BK defense fresh by winning the time of possession war and avoid giving up big plays to Anderson and Edmonds.

Friday’s game starts at 6 pm ET and can be seen on the CBS Sports Network. Tickets are still available for $35 to $45.