Not sure how many hits it does. Is it only 1 hit per model the template touches? So I need to know how many hits it causes if it hits a single monster. Is it just 1 hit, maybe im reading an old version of the lizardman army book but I can't find it. Thanks
1 hit per model it covers(or partially covers). Check the FAQ on how it pertains to complex models(like stegadons or ridden monsters), Though I'm sure it just randomizes, I'm not positive, I'm sure someone else can answer that part.
Template weapons hit the entire model. Think of it like a cannon ball. It hits all the model. Riders and mount.