Long Island Rough Riders (UWS) Wyant, the former face of the team, stepped down from her role as general manager. The Long Island Rough Riders acquired the W-League franchise, formerly known as the Long Island Lady Riders. This season was the first season since 1997 that both the men's and women's teams would be known as the Rough Riders. Under the leadership of co-head coaches John Fitzgerald and Declan McSheffrey, the team finished in sixth place in the Northeast Division at 5-7-2 (17 points). The team did not secure a berth into the playoffs. The Rough Riders went 9-3-2 (29 points) the following season and
3–3–5 defense they are a relatively fast but smaller unit compared to the opposing offense, and they want to cause blocking assignment issues for that offense. Also, a 3-3-5 can be adjusted to a 4-3, 3-4, or 4-4 defense with the same starting players. To effectively play the 3-3-5, the "Front 8" (e.g. the eight defensive players closest to the line of scrimmage) must be physical and tough. The three down lineman must be able to control the running lanes, execute an effective pass rush, and be able to keep the opposing offensive line occupied so that the linebackers can make plays.