The University at Albany football team knew that this season would be a battle

The Great Danes are not only trying to navigate a difficult Colonial Athletic Association schedule, but they are trying to stay healthy while do it.

UAlbany will get back junior linebackers Christian Dorsey and Jake Dwyer for this Saturday's game at James Madison, but will be without sophomore snapper and defensive end Cory Connell, due to a mild concussion.

"Everybody knew going in that it would be a battle of attrition, keeping everybody healthy," said junior quarterback Will Fiacchi. "The next guy has to step up and contribute."

The Great Danes are already without junior linebacker Kyle Jordan and senior defensive back Justinian Mason, who have suffered season-ending injuries.

The Dukes, who are ranked No. 21 in the FCS Coaches Top 25 poll, have a big, physical team led by running back Dae'Quan Scott, who is 5-foot-9 and 215 pounds and senior linebacker Stephon Robertson, who is 5-foot-11 and 230 pounds. 

It will certainly be another test for UAlbany.

J.S. Carras/The Record

The University at Albany is a new member to the Colonial Athletic Association in football.

The Great Danes didn't receive much respect in the preseason poll, which was released on Wednesday, at the league's media day at M&T Stadium in Baltimore.

Coach Bob Ford and quarterback Will Fiacchi represented the team down at media day.

Here is the preseason poll.

1. Villanova
2. Towson
3. New Hampshire 
4. Richmond
5. James Madison
6. Delaware
7. Stony Brook
8. Maine
9. William & Mary
10. UAlbany 
11. Rhode Island

The Great Danes kick off the season on Aug. 31, at Duquesne, and play their first CAA game on Sept. 14, when they host Rhode Island, in the first game played at Bob Ford Field.

University at Albany sophomore quarterback Will Fiacchi talks about the team's upcoming game against Sacred Heart.

UAlbany sophomore quarterback Will Fiacchi talks about his team's upcoming game against Robert Morris, which kicks off the Northeast Conference season for the defending league champs.