Ryan McCarthy Named Eddie Robinson Award Finalist
First-year head coach has led CCSU to a school-record 11 wins so far in 2019
Central Connecticut first-year head football coach Ryan McCarthy was named a finalist for the prestigious Eddie Robinson Award on Monday afternoon. McCarthy is one of 15 national finalists for the FCS Coach of the Year Award presented by STATS. The Blue Devils are currently 11-1 and are one of just three FCS teams in the nation to remain undefeated vs. FCS teams this season.
The 11 wins is a school-record and the Blue Devils are making their second appearance in the FCS Playoffs in the last three years. They are one of just three teams in the country with 11 or more wins this season.
The Blue Devils have won eight straight games heading into Saturday's playoff game at the University at Albany. The Blue Devils and Great Danes will play in Albany on Saturday at 1 p.m. on ESPN3.
McCarthy was named head coach on Oct. 16, 2019 after serving as the interim head coach for the first six games of the season. The Blue Devils are ranked #17 in the country in the latest STATS FCS Poll, their highest-ranking in school history. They have also won six road games this season, more than any other team in the country. Their lone loss came vs. FBS opponent Eastern Michigan on Sept. 21.
Central finished a perfect 7-0 in Northeast Conference play this season and outscored its opponents 265-99 in league action. They boast the #2 defense in the country heading into the playoffs and lead the country in interceptions (20), turnover margin, defensive touchdowns (6).
