North Carolina A&T is looking for a home win against Hampton

As North Carolina A&T prepares for its home game against Hampton University on Oct. 19, it faces some key challenges, particularly in the running game. With key players Kenji Christian and Wesley Graves out due to injury, A&T will have to look for other sources of production in what is expected to be a difficult matchup against a strong Hampton team.

Overview of North Carolina A&T

North Carolina A&T (1-5, 0-2 CAA) has struggled this season, particularly on defense, where they allowed 464.5 yards and nearly 40 points per game. Offensively, A&T will have to adjust without its two leading rushers, Kenji Christian (256 yards, 1 TD) and Wesley Graves (225 yards, 1 TD), both of whom are injured. This will force A&T to rely more heavily on players like Shimique Blizzard (115 rushing yards) and Cameren Dalrymple (138 rushing yards), both of whom need to step up.

Quarterback Justin Fomby will likely carry a heavier load. He has passed for 700 yards and 5 touchdowns this season, but also threw four interceptions. Without a consistent running game, Fomby will have to find ways to connect with receivers like Ger-Cari Caldwell (309 yards, 2 TDs) and Jayvonne Dillard (239 yards) to keep the Aggies' offense rolling.

Hampton overview

Hampton University (3-2, 0-1 CAA) enters this matchup in better shape, having scored 132 points and allowed 127 this season. They feature a balanced attack led by running back Elijah Burris, who has rushed for 389 yards and four touchdowns. Quarterback Malcolm Mays saw more action and was effective, throwing for 356 yards and three touchdowns while adding 99 rushing yards. Mays offers versatility as his passing and running abilities make him a key player in Hampton's offense, especially with Chris Zellous also providing a dual-threat element.

Hampton's defense was solid against the pass, allowing just 139 passing yards per game, which could be a problem for A&T's Fomby if he is forced into passing situations due to injuries in the backfield. Hampton's defense has also provided pressure with ten sacks so far this season.

Key Matches

– North Carolina A&Ts Backup Running Backs vs. Hamptons Run Defense: With Christian and Graves out, Blizzard and Dalrymple will have to carry the load. They'll face a Hampton defense that allowed 205.6 rushing yards per game but could find itself out of bounds without A&T's top playmakers.

– Malcolm Mays and Elijah Burris against A&T's defense: Mays and Burris will test A&T's defense, which has struggled to contain the run and pass. Mays' dual-threat ability will be a major factor, and if A&T can't stop the offense, it could lead to long offenses that weaken their defense.

– Justin Fomby vs. Hampton's Secondary With the running game hampered, Fomby will have to take on more responsibility. Hampton's pass defense, which allows just 139 yards per game, will be a challenge. Fomby must avoid losing the ball and use all opportunities in the backfield.

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