WILLIAMSBURG – The College of William & Mary football program begins a new chapter in 2026, leaving behind old rivalries in the Coastal American Conference (CAA) to explore new challenges in the Patriot League.
The Tribe went 7-5 in their final season in the CAA, posting a conference record of 6-2.
At the team’s annual preseason media day Aug. 12 at Zable Stadium, coaches and players discussed the upcoming season and the changes that come with joining a new conference.
Despite those changes, head coach Mike London emphasized that the X’s and O’s are still the same.
“It’s about what you do on the field,” London said. “It’s about how you execute.”
Execution was a strong point for a William and Mary offense that committed a national low of six turnovers last year. The Tribe also converted on 91% of their trips to the red zone, ninth best in the country.
“Now it’s about seeing what we can build on,” said offensive coordinator Winston October.
October enters his second season as an assistant coach on London’s staff, but their relationship started many years ago.
“I’ve known coach London forever, since I was 18 actually,” October said.
The bond the two men share exemplifies a culture based in family and football that trickles down to their players.
For fifth-year tight end Sean McElwain, whose younger brother Matt McElwain also plays for William & Mary, the connection between family and football is even more meaningful.
“I’m excited for what the team can do this year,” said McElwain. “I’m excited to play football with my brother.”
On the defensive side of the ball the goal is simple, dominate.
“We want to start strong,” said third-year middle linebacker Harrison Johnson. “We want to be a fast and physical defense. We want to be calculated and smart but we also want to run to the ball like our hair’s on fire.”
William & Mary kicks off this season’s campaign on the road against Villanova University on Aug. 28. The squad’s home opener is the following weekend vs. Delaware State University.
As the Tribe prepares to take the field, London said the team is playing for more than just wins.
“We want to take this to a national stage and have our Williamsburg family say ‘that’s my team’, he said. “That’s what it’s all about.”
