UAlbany football unfazed by low preseason prediction

The UAlbany Great Danes football program received its official preseason prognosis Wednesday, and for many outside the program, the forecast was grim. In the highly competitive Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) coaches’ poll, the Great Danes were slotted to finish 12th out of 14 teams, a position that would suggest a challenging road ahead. Yet, during their league media day teleconference, the mood emanating from the UAlbany contingent was far from dismayed; instead, it was one of resolute focus and quiet confidence.

This isn't unfamiliar territory for a program often battling for respect in a conference widely regarded as one of the toughest in FCS football. The CAA features multiple perennial playoff contenders and national title aspirants, making any climb up the standings a monumental task. For UAlbany, coming off a season that didn't meet internal expectations, a low preseason ranking might seem a logical consequence to external observers. However, within the confines of the Great Danes' locker room and coaching offices, such predictions serve less as a discouragement and more as an ignition switch. The coaching staff has consistently preached an internal standard, emphasizing that external opinions hold little weight compared to the team's commitment to daily improvement and execution.