Monmouth vs. Fordham 2025: Keys to the Game and Predictions

Week 2 of the 2025 FCS season brings a compelling clash between two programs trending in opposite directions. Monmouth, fresh off a dramatic comeback win, boasts one of the most explosive offenses in the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA). They’ll head to the Bronx to face a Fordham squad eager to rebound after a tough opener.

With the Nelson brothers (Gavin and Rodney) lighting up scoreboards for the Hawks and Fordham leaning on home-field grit, this matchup promises fireworks, tension, and a chance for both teams to define their early-season identity.

Let’s dive into the keys to the game and what to expect when these Northeast rivals square off.

Monmouth vs. Fordham: Matchup History and Excerpts

The Monmouth vs. Fordham rivalry has delivered a mix of defensive grit and offensive fireworks over the years. Monmouth holds a 4–2 edge in their last six meetings.

From the Hawks’ dominant 23–9 debut win in 2006 to the wild 41–40 shootout in 2016, each matchup has added a new layer to the series.

Fordham’s lone recent victory came in 2022, a 52–49 thriller that showcased both teams’ scoring excellence. Monmouth responded in 2024 with a 63–21 blowout behind five touchdowns from Sone Ntoh and two kickoff return scores.

The average points per game, Monmouth 38.8, Fordham 29.5, reflects a rivalry that’s rarely short on drama, with explosive offenses and late-game heroics shaping its identity.

Monmouth vs. Fordham 2025: Keys to the Game and Predictions

Key Players for the Hawks

Monmouth enters the 2025 season with a stacked roster of offensive talent and veteran leadership. The unit is headlined by senior quarterback Derek Robertson, who threw for nearly 4000 yards last year and remains one of the most efficient passers in the FCS. Sophomore running back Rodney Nelson adds balance and explosiveness to the backfield.

At the same time, wideouts Josh Derry, TJ Speight, and Gavin Nelson form a dynamic trio. They’re capable of stretching defenses vertically and punishing soft coverage underneath.

Up front, JT Cornelius anchors a physical offensive line that gives Robertson time to operate and opens lanes for the ground game.

On defense, linebacker and team captain Charlie Sasso leads the charge with sideline-to-sideline range and a knack for disrupting plays before they develop. Together, this core gives Monmouth the firepower and stability to control tempo and dictate matchups—especially against a Fordham team still searching for answers.

Key Players for Fordham

Fordham’s 2025 roster blends seasoned leadership with rising contributors. It’s anchored by graduate linebacker James Conway, the Patriot League’s all-time leading tackler in 2024. Conway’s instincts and physicality make him the heartbeat of the Rams’ defense.

Up front, Sam Buerkle and Cole Nelson form a disruptive duo on the defensive line, while junior Andrew Osmun adds versatility in the secondary.

Offensively, the backfield of Ricky Parks and Jamell James offers a balanced mix of power and burst, running behind a veteran offensive line. Quarterback Gunnar Smith looks to find rhythm after a rocky opener, logging a 51.3 completion percentage with 152 yards and a touchdown.

With this core in place, Fordham will lean on physicality, tempo control, and home-field momentum to challenge Monmouth’s explosive attack.

How Monmouth Wins in Week 2

Monmouth’s high-octane offense is poised to overwhelm Fordham from the opening whistle. With wide receiver Gavin Nelson stretching the field and Rodney Nelson carving up defenses underneath, the Hawks have too many weapons for the Rams to handle across four quarters.

Fordham’s best hope lies in controlling tempo and limiting explosive plays. However, if Monmouth dictates pace early this turns into a track meet, and Fordham doesn’t have the horsepower to keep up. Expect a flurry of big plays and a scoreboard that tilts heavily in Monmouth’s favor.

To win in Week 2 against Fordham, Monmouth needs to lean into its identity: tempo, spacing, and explosive playmaking. The Nelson brothers must set the tone early, forcing Fordham’s defense to play on its heels. Robertson should continue distributing quickly and decisively, exploiting mismatches against a vulnerable secondary.

Defensively, Monmouth must clean up its tackling and get pressure with a four-man front to avoid overcommitting against Fordham’s run game. If the Hawks control field position and avoid turnovers, they’ll dictate pace and pull away by the third quarter. This is a game where Monmouth’s offensive firepower can overwhelm if they stay disciplined and aggressive.