Sun Belt Football Preview 2018
By Tyler Smith
East
#1T Appalachian State 8-4 (6-2)
Coach: Scott Satterfield
Offensive Coordinator: Shawn Clark and Frank Ponce
Defensive Coordinator: Bryan McClellan-Brown and Dale Jones
Stadium: Kidd Brewer Stadium (24,050)
Last Five Years Win Totals
2017 9-4
2016 10-3
2015 11-2
2014 7-5
2013 NA
Offensive Coordinator: Shawn Clark and Frank Ponce
Defensive Coordinator: Bryan McClellan-Brown and Dale Jones
Stadium: Kidd Brewer Stadium (24,050)
Last Five Years Win Totals
2017 9-4
2016 10-3
2015 11-2
2014 7-5
2013 NA
Overview
Will Zac Thomas be the next big thing at QB for App State? He has big shoes to fill as Taylor Lamb was a four year starter who won a ton of games. Thomas was Lamb's back up last season. He only had 10 attempts. The line has to replace several starters. The two returning starters are Victor Johnson (LT) and Noah Hannon (C). Both have first team potential.
Having Jalin Moore at RB will help Thomas out. Moore should put up monster numbers this season. He has put up over 2,400 yards the past two seasons. No one is even close to his level in the Sun Belt. The receiving unit brings in two K-State transfers Correy Sutton and Dominique Heath. They will make immediate impacts. Thomas Hennigan is the top returning receiver after a great freshman year with 7 scores. This unit could end up being one of the best in the league once the season ends.
App State has had a stout defense since 2015. This year will be no different. Their secondary would get love in the power 5. Clifton Duck had 6 interceptions, Tae Hayes 4 and Desmond Franklin 3. That helped take the Mountaineers to #11 in turnover margin last season. Their secondary coach, Bryan Brown, is now their defensive coordinator.
The rest of the defense misses some key players but they look to reload. Anthony Flory had 87 tackles from his ILB spot last season. He will have some inexperience surrounding him though they had some run last season. Akeem Davis-Gaither could end up being a all conference performer at OLB. The line features Myquon Stout at NT. Stout is a top conference performer. Finding a rotation at DE will be key. Goodwin, Willis and Taylor will see a lot of time.
This years team comes in with more uncertainties than App State fans are used to but they still have the talent to take this team to the Sun Belt title game. Thomas has the weapons around him to be successful. The defense will be strong again this season with a special secondary. The schedule plays out well with Ga State and Troy at home. They also avoid games against ULM and Arkansas State. This team has only lost 5 Sun Belt games since they joined the league, why would that change now?
Having Jalin Moore at RB will help Thomas out. Moore should put up monster numbers this season. He has put up over 2,400 yards the past two seasons. No one is even close to his level in the Sun Belt. The receiving unit brings in two K-State transfers Correy Sutton and Dominique Heath. They will make immediate impacts. Thomas Hennigan is the top returning receiver after a great freshman year with 7 scores. This unit could end up being one of the best in the league once the season ends.
App State has had a stout defense since 2015. This year will be no different. Their secondary would get love in the power 5. Clifton Duck had 6 interceptions, Tae Hayes 4 and Desmond Franklin 3. That helped take the Mountaineers to #11 in turnover margin last season. Their secondary coach, Bryan Brown, is now their defensive coordinator.
The rest of the defense misses some key players but they look to reload. Anthony Flory had 87 tackles from his ILB spot last season. He will have some inexperience surrounding him though they had some run last season. Akeem Davis-Gaither could end up being a all conference performer at OLB. The line features Myquon Stout at NT. Stout is a top conference performer. Finding a rotation at DE will be key. Goodwin, Willis and Taylor will see a lot of time.
This years team comes in with more uncertainties than App State fans are used to but they still have the talent to take this team to the Sun Belt title game. Thomas has the weapons around him to be successful. The defense will be strong again this season with a special secondary. The schedule plays out well with Ga State and Troy at home. They also avoid games against ULM and Arkansas State. This team has only lost 5 Sun Belt games since they joined the league, why would that change now?
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Zach thomas, SO, QB
Rushing
Jalin Moore, SR, RB
Receiving
Thomas Hennigan, SO, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Clifton Duck, JR, CB
Sacks
Demetrius Taylor, SO, DE
Tackles
Anthony Flory, SR, LB
Passing
Zach thomas, SO, QB
Rushing
Jalin Moore, SR, RB
Receiving
Thomas Hennigan, SO, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Clifton Duck, JR, CB
Sacks
Demetrius Taylor, SO, DE
Tackles
Anthony Flory, SR, LB
#1T Troy 8-4 (6-2)
Coach: Neal Brown
Offensive Coordinator: Sean Reagen and Matt Moore
Defensive Coordinator: Vic Koenning
Stadium: Veterans Memorial Stadium (30,000)
Last Five Years Win Totals
2017 11-2
2016 10-3
2015 4-8
2014 3-9
2013 6-6
Offensive Coordinator: Sean Reagen and Matt Moore
Defensive Coordinator: Vic Koenning
Stadium: Veterans Memorial Stadium (30,000)
Last Five Years Win Totals
2017 11-2
2016 10-3
2015 4-8
2014 3-9
2013 6-6
Overview
Similar to App State, Troy losses a four year starter at QB, Brandon Silvers. His last two seasons were special which included a win over LSU. (IT JUST MEANS MORE) So who takes over at QB? Kaleb Barker and Sawyer Smith are the front runners. I wouldn't be surprised if both got some playing time throughout the season. Freshman QB Gunnar Watson will arrive in the fall. They will need to solidify a starter in fall camp as game one is Boise State. As big of a loss as Silvers was so is RB Jordan Chunn. Chunn had 26 total touchdowns over the past two seasons. Replacing him will be Jamarius Henderson and B.J. Smith. They only combined for 72 carries.
While RB and QB have some questions. O-line and WR bring back familiar faces. Four starters return on the Sun Belts best line. Junior James Peach will fill the void at RT. This unit only gave up 15 sacks last season. WR is loaded with returning starters Deondre Douglas and Damion Willis. The two combined for over 90 catches and 1,200 yards last year. Add in Louisville transfer, Traveon Samuel, who will electrify Veterans Memorial this season and freshman Demontrez Brown, this unit will be special.
Back in 2014 Troy's defense gave up 36 ppg. Last season the Trojans gave up just 18.5! What a turn around. This year should be more of the same. Stars Blace Brown and Hunter Reese are back for their final season. Blace Brown has forced 11 interceptions the past two seasons. Everyone is ready to see newcomer Will Sunderland at NB. Cedarius Rookard is back free safety.
Linebaker is strong with Hunter Reese, Zo Bridges, and Tron Folsom. Folsom is the top returning tackler. Reese had 6.5 sacks and 14 tackles for loss. Keep an eye on Zo Bridges who could breakout this season. The line isn't going to take a step back. Marcus Webb and Kelvin Lucky should make some noise this season. Trevon Sanders is back at NT.
This defense is going to be fantastic. The offense could have some issues to start the season but they will click by the time ULM comes around. The schedule features their two toughest games on the road at ULM and App State. The rest of the conference schedule should be clockwork for Troy. Boise State at home and a trip to Nebraska highlight the non-conference schedule.
While RB and QB have some questions. O-line and WR bring back familiar faces. Four starters return on the Sun Belts best line. Junior James Peach will fill the void at RT. This unit only gave up 15 sacks last season. WR is loaded with returning starters Deondre Douglas and Damion Willis. The two combined for over 90 catches and 1,200 yards last year. Add in Louisville transfer, Traveon Samuel, who will electrify Veterans Memorial this season and freshman Demontrez Brown, this unit will be special.
Back in 2014 Troy's defense gave up 36 ppg. Last season the Trojans gave up just 18.5! What a turn around. This year should be more of the same. Stars Blace Brown and Hunter Reese are back for their final season. Blace Brown has forced 11 interceptions the past two seasons. Everyone is ready to see newcomer Will Sunderland at NB. Cedarius Rookard is back free safety.
Linebaker is strong with Hunter Reese, Zo Bridges, and Tron Folsom. Folsom is the top returning tackler. Reese had 6.5 sacks and 14 tackles for loss. Keep an eye on Zo Bridges who could breakout this season. The line isn't going to take a step back. Marcus Webb and Kelvin Lucky should make some noise this season. Trevon Sanders is back at NT.
This defense is going to be fantastic. The offense could have some issues to start the season but they will click by the time ULM comes around. The schedule features their two toughest games on the road at ULM and App State. The rest of the conference schedule should be clockwork for Troy. Boise State at home and a trip to Nebraska highlight the non-conference schedule.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Kaleb Barker, JR, QB
Rushing
Jamarius, Henderson, JR, RB
Receiving
Deondre Douglas, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Blace Brown, CB, SR
Sacks
Hunter Reese, SR, LB
Tackles
Tron Folsom, JR, LB
Passing
Kaleb Barker, JR, QB
Rushing
Jamarius, Henderson, JR, RB
Receiving
Deondre Douglas, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Blace Brown, CB, SR
Sacks
Hunter Reese, SR, LB
Tackles
Tron Folsom, JR, LB
#3 Georgia State 6-6 (5-3)
Coach: Shawn Elliott
Offensive Coordinator: Travis Trickett
Defensive Coordinator: Nate Fuqua
Stadium: Georgia State Stadium (22,000)
Last Five Years Win Totals
2017 7-5
2016 3-9
2015 6-7
2014 1-11
2013 0-12
Offensive Coordinator: Travis Trickett
Defensive Coordinator: Nate Fuqua
Stadium: Georgia State Stadium (22,000)
Last Five Years Win Totals
2017 7-5
2016 3-9
2015 6-7
2014 1-11
2013 0-12
Overview
One of the big reasons why I thought the Panthers would have a successful season 2017 was the return of Penny Hart. Hart caught 74 balls for 1,121 yards and 8 touchdowns. Tamir Jones as a freshman caught 33 balls. Look for him to be even better this season. Who will get them the ball is the biggest story line this off season. Winchester was the back up last season and is a dual threat QB. Dan Ellington comes in from the JUCO ranks where he was fantastic. Ellington put up big numbers in his last year in JUCO and looked good in the Spring game.
One area Shawn Elliot wanted to fix when he arrived was the offensive line. Last season he didn't have a lot of options but they made it work. This season they bring back four starters and have promising depth. The running game was awful last season. A better line will help but they also haven't found an answer at RB. Not a ton of experience returns either at the position. If no one rises to the occasion then freshman Destin Coates may be the guy.
The defense kept Georgia State in games last season. They only allowed 24.8 ppg. The one area of struggle was pass defense. Ranking 102 in the nation in yards allowed. Only Jerome Smith returns in the secondary. Gerogia State will mix in youth with upperclassmen in the secondary. The Panthers will have an influx of youth throughout this defensive roster. The line is strong, it all starts with sophomore NG Dontae Wilson. As a freshman he recorded 4 sacks. Senior DE Marterious Allen had four sacks as well. The line is the strongest part of the team. Linebacker is strong as well. Chase Middleton and Micheal Shaw were top 4 in tackles last season.
The defense will keep the Panthers in games again this season. The offense may have some struggles to start the season depending on how the QB situation plays out. They will have four weeks on non-conference play to figure it out before ULM arrives in Atlanta. They catch no breaks in the schedule with the top three Sun Belt teams on the schedule. All three are on the road. While they may not make a bowl this season. This team will have a lot promise heading into 2019.
One area Shawn Elliot wanted to fix when he arrived was the offensive line. Last season he didn't have a lot of options but they made it work. This season they bring back four starters and have promising depth. The running game was awful last season. A better line will help but they also haven't found an answer at RB. Not a ton of experience returns either at the position. If no one rises to the occasion then freshman Destin Coates may be the guy.
The defense kept Georgia State in games last season. They only allowed 24.8 ppg. The one area of struggle was pass defense. Ranking 102 in the nation in yards allowed. Only Jerome Smith returns in the secondary. Gerogia State will mix in youth with upperclassmen in the secondary. The Panthers will have an influx of youth throughout this defensive roster. The line is strong, it all starts with sophomore NG Dontae Wilson. As a freshman he recorded 4 sacks. Senior DE Marterious Allen had four sacks as well. The line is the strongest part of the team. Linebacker is strong as well. Chase Middleton and Micheal Shaw were top 4 in tackles last season.
The defense will keep the Panthers in games again this season. The offense may have some struggles to start the season depending on how the QB situation plays out. They will have four weeks on non-conference play to figure it out before ULM arrives in Atlanta. They catch no breaks in the schedule with the top three Sun Belt teams on the schedule. All three are on the road. While they may not make a bowl this season. This team will have a lot promise heading into 2019.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Aaron Winchester, JR, QB
Rushing
Taz Bateman, SR, RB
Receiving
Penny Hart, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Four Players at 1
Sacks
Marterious Allen and Dontae Wilson
Tackles
Chase Middleton, SR, LB
Passing
Aaron Winchester, JR, QB
Rushing
Taz Bateman, SR, RB
Receiving
Penny Hart, JR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Four Players at 1
Sacks
Marterious Allen and Dontae Wilson
Tackles
Chase Middleton, SR, LB
#4 Georgia Southern 4-8 (3-5)
Coach: Chad Lunsford
Offensive Coordinator: Bob DeBesse
Defensive Coordinator: Scot Sloan
Stadium: Paulson Stadium (25,000)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 2-10
2016 5-7
2015 9-4
2014 9-3
2013 NA
Offensive Coordinator: Bob DeBesse
Defensive Coordinator: Scot Sloan
Stadium: Paulson Stadium (25,000)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 2-10
2016 5-7
2015 9-4
2014 9-3
2013 NA
Overview
The good news is Georgia Southern is going back to a shotgun triple option offense. Will they have the right players to run it after trying to switch identities is a concern. Is QB Shai Werts the right guy for the job? He showed flashes a freshman. His improvement from year one will be crucial to this teams success. The o-line brings back three starters. They add in JUCO transfer, Jawaski Webb at RG. How the line adjust will help propel this offense.
Wesley Fields will be the go to back. Fields had over 800 yards last season. Another RB who can make plays will be welcomed. As for receivers, if anyone wants to be the guy Lunsford will be happy. Mark Michaud has big play ability but he only caught 7 balls last season.
Since moving to the FBS level the Eagles defense has been reliable. Last season they took a big step back. They averaged over 32 ppg. Nine starters are back. Five are from the secondary. They have depth and talent here. Kindle Vildor and Monquavion Brinson will find themselves earning accolades at the end of the year. Safety Joshua Moon could as well. Safety RJ Murray leads the team in tackles with 60.
They are weak at LB which doesn't work well with their 3-4 scheme. Tomarico Reese only had 45 tackles as an ILB. Todd Bradley will join him inside. Bradley was able to get to the QB some last season. The team only had 22 sacks in 2017. All four of the top players are back in that category. DE Logan Hunt led the team with 5 sacks. They have depth at DE so a good rotation could help improve on their low sack total.
This team has the potential to surprise some teams this season. I don't project them to get to 6-6 but I wouldn't be surprised if they did. There's no doubt that they will improve on their 2-10 record. The schedule makers did them no favors with Arkansas State and ULM from the West. The UMass game will be a good test for them in week 2.
Wesley Fields will be the go to back. Fields had over 800 yards last season. Another RB who can make plays will be welcomed. As for receivers, if anyone wants to be the guy Lunsford will be happy. Mark Michaud has big play ability but he only caught 7 balls last season.
Since moving to the FBS level the Eagles defense has been reliable. Last season they took a big step back. They averaged over 32 ppg. Nine starters are back. Five are from the secondary. They have depth and talent here. Kindle Vildor and Monquavion Brinson will find themselves earning accolades at the end of the year. Safety Joshua Moon could as well. Safety RJ Murray leads the team in tackles with 60.
They are weak at LB which doesn't work well with their 3-4 scheme. Tomarico Reese only had 45 tackles as an ILB. Todd Bradley will join him inside. Bradley was able to get to the QB some last season. The team only had 22 sacks in 2017. All four of the top players are back in that category. DE Logan Hunt led the team with 5 sacks. They have depth at DE so a good rotation could help improve on their low sack total.
This team has the potential to surprise some teams this season. I don't project them to get to 6-6 but I wouldn't be surprised if they did. There's no doubt that they will improve on their 2-10 record. The schedule makers did them no favors with Arkansas State and ULM from the West. The UMass game will be a good test for them in week 2.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Shai Werts, SO, QB
Rushing
Wesley Fields, SR, RB
Receiving
Malik Henry, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Monquavion Brinson, JR, CB
Sacks
Logan Hunt, SR, DE
Tackles
RJ Murray, SR, S
Passing
Shai Werts, SO, QB
Rushing
Wesley Fields, SR, RB
Receiving
Malik Henry, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Monquavion Brinson, JR, CB
Sacks
Logan Hunt, SR, DE
Tackles
RJ Murray, SR, S
#5 Coastal Carolina 2-10 (1-7)
Coach: Joe Moglia
Offensive Coordinator: Jamey Chadwell
Defensive Coordinator: Marvin Sanders
Stadium: Brooks Stadium (15,000)
Last Five Year Win Totals:
2017 3-9
2016 N/A
2015 N/A
2014 N/A
2013 N/A
Offensive Coordinator: Jamey Chadwell
Defensive Coordinator: Marvin Sanders
Stadium: Brooks Stadium (15,000)
Last Five Year Win Totals:
2017 3-9
2016 N/A
2015 N/A
2014 N/A
2013 N/A
Overview
Will Coastal be able to settle on just one QB this season? Seems promising. Kilton Anderson played in 6 games last season. Passed for 7 scores and 3 interceptions. He was under center for 2 of their 3 wins. The line brings back 4 of 5 starters to protect Anderson. They gave up 28 sacks last season. They should improve as 3 of the 4 were just freshman.
The running game will feature former Boston College player Marcus Outlow and Presbyterian transfer Torrance Marable. This is the strongest position on the team with talent and depth. The receiving corps has promise with Malcolm Williams back. Williams broke out for 793 yards, 7 touchdowns last season. No one else on the team had more than 25 catches last season. Finding a true second option will give promise for next season since Williams will be gone.
Coastal Carolina made a change at DC after they gave up 34 points per game last season. In as DC is Marvin Sanders. Sanders did have some success at UNC over 10 years ago. He has his hands full with only 4 starters back. They don't have a unit that stands out as the strongest. The secondary returns half of their returning starters. Safety Fitz Wattley leads the team in tackles and interceptions. Anthony Chesley and Preston Carey combined for 18 passes broken up.
The front 7 features several freshman and sophomores in the two deep depth chart. Several sophomores stand out for breakout seasons DE Tarron Jackson, DT C.J. Brewer, and OLB Silas Kelly. These three showed promise last season to be staples for Coastal for many years to come.
End of the day this team doesn't have the experience to compete in this division. A loaded division. QB play has got to be better. They have some solid options at the skill spots but if they don't find their QB it won't matter. The defense is working their way to a better place. Having so much youth getting experience will pay dividends. The good news is that Joe Moglia will be back and bring more dog to this team! Hard to see them improving on their 3 wins from last season though.
The running game will feature former Boston College player Marcus Outlow and Presbyterian transfer Torrance Marable. This is the strongest position on the team with talent and depth. The receiving corps has promise with Malcolm Williams back. Williams broke out for 793 yards, 7 touchdowns last season. No one else on the team had more than 25 catches last season. Finding a true second option will give promise for next season since Williams will be gone.
Coastal Carolina made a change at DC after they gave up 34 points per game last season. In as DC is Marvin Sanders. Sanders did have some success at UNC over 10 years ago. He has his hands full with only 4 starters back. They don't have a unit that stands out as the strongest. The secondary returns half of their returning starters. Safety Fitz Wattley leads the team in tackles and interceptions. Anthony Chesley and Preston Carey combined for 18 passes broken up.
The front 7 features several freshman and sophomores in the two deep depth chart. Several sophomores stand out for breakout seasons DE Tarron Jackson, DT C.J. Brewer, and OLB Silas Kelly. These three showed promise last season to be staples for Coastal for many years to come.
End of the day this team doesn't have the experience to compete in this division. A loaded division. QB play has got to be better. They have some solid options at the skill spots but if they don't find their QB it won't matter. The defense is working their way to a better place. Having so much youth getting experience will pay dividends. The good news is that Joe Moglia will be back and bring more dog to this team! Hard to see them improving on their 3 wins from last season though.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Kilton Anderson, SR, QB
Rushing
Marcus Outlow, SR, RB
Receiving
Malcolm Williams, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Fitz Wattley, SR, S
Sacks
Tarron Jackson, SO, DE
Tackles
Fitz Wattley, SR, S
Passing
Kilton Anderson, SR, QB
Rushing
Marcus Outlow, SR, RB
Receiving
Malcolm Williams, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Fitz Wattley, SR, S
Sacks
Tarron Jackson, SO, DE
Tackles
Fitz Wattley, SR, S
WEST
#1 Arkansas State 10-2 (8-0)
Coach: Blake Anderson
Offensive Coordinator: Buster Faulkner
Defensive Coordinator: Joe Cauthen
Stadium: Centennial Bank Stadium (30,964)
Last Five Years Win Totals
2017 7-5
2016 8-5
2015 9-4
2014 7-6
2013 8-5
Offensive Coordinator: Buster Faulkner
Defensive Coordinator: Joe Cauthen
Stadium: Centennial Bank Stadium (30,964)
Last Five Years Win Totals
2017 7-5
2016 8-5
2015 9-4
2014 7-6
2013 8-5
Overview
Justice Hansen is the best QB in the league and 2nd isn't even close. Hansen nearly had 4,000 yards passing with 36 touchdowns last year. He may also have the best receivers in the Sun Belt. Justin McInnis returns after having 800 yards receiving. Omar Bayless is a top target in the end zone with six scores. Two newcomer will make immediate impacts this season Kirk Merritt and Dahu Green. Merritt comes from East Mississippi CC and Green from Oklahoma.
They have no weakness. The line is strong with Jacob Still (C) and Lanard Bonner (LT). The line features good depth as well. The line will hope to make the running game even more of a threat this season. RB Warren Wand can make plays in the passing game and running game. Finding a #2 behind Wand will help this running attack. All signs point to Armond Weh-Weh getting that chance.
Ja'Von Rolland-Jones was spectacular but he is playing in the NFL. Many other starters have departed as the Red Wolves only bring back 4 starters. While the line only brings back one true starter, they have a plethora of experience. NT Hunter Moreton returns after a good freshman season. Kevin Thurmon comes in from Ball state to play the other tackle position. Ronheen Bingham the potential to hit double digit sacks this season. The second wave of players on the line are upperclassmen. This line will be dangerous this season.
The secondary features Bj Edmonds who returns with 80 tackles and 3 interceptions both lead all returning players. Corner could be a struggle this season but they do bring back Justin Clifton at nickel safety. Clifton has first team talent. With Kyle Wilson gone linebacker becomes a big question mark. Expect to see several options before Arkansas State settles on two linebackers.
Double digit wins could be in play this season. At Alabama is the only for sure loss on the schedule. Having App State, Ga State and ULM at home is huge. With the points that this offense is going to put up the defense has the opportunity to figure things out. The only downfall to this season is that it will be so good that Blake Anderson will get hired away.
They have no weakness. The line is strong with Jacob Still (C) and Lanard Bonner (LT). The line features good depth as well. The line will hope to make the running game even more of a threat this season. RB Warren Wand can make plays in the passing game and running game. Finding a #2 behind Wand will help this running attack. All signs point to Armond Weh-Weh getting that chance.
Ja'Von Rolland-Jones was spectacular but he is playing in the NFL. Many other starters have departed as the Red Wolves only bring back 4 starters. While the line only brings back one true starter, they have a plethora of experience. NT Hunter Moreton returns after a good freshman season. Kevin Thurmon comes in from Ball state to play the other tackle position. Ronheen Bingham the potential to hit double digit sacks this season. The second wave of players on the line are upperclassmen. This line will be dangerous this season.
The secondary features Bj Edmonds who returns with 80 tackles and 3 interceptions both lead all returning players. Corner could be a struggle this season but they do bring back Justin Clifton at nickel safety. Clifton has first team talent. With Kyle Wilson gone linebacker becomes a big question mark. Expect to see several options before Arkansas State settles on two linebackers.
Double digit wins could be in play this season. At Alabama is the only for sure loss on the schedule. Having App State, Ga State and ULM at home is huge. With the points that this offense is going to put up the defense has the opportunity to figure things out. The only downfall to this season is that it will be so good that Blake Anderson will get hired away.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Justice Hansen, SR, QB
Rushing
Warren Wand, SR, RB
Receiving
Justin McInnis, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
B.J. Edmonds, JR, S
Sacks
Ronheen Bingham, SR, DE
Tackles
B.J. Edmonds, JR, S
Passing
Justice Hansen, SR, QB
Rushing
Warren Wand, SR, RB
Receiving
Justin McInnis, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
B.J. Edmonds, JR, S
Sacks
Ronheen Bingham, SR, DE
Tackles
B.J. Edmonds, JR, S
#2 Louisiana Monroe 7-5 (6-2)
Coach: Matt Viator
Offensive Coordinator: Matt Kubik
Defensive Coordinator: Mike Collins
Stadium: Malone Stadium (30,427)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 4-8
2016 4-8
2015 2-11
2014 4-8
2013 6-6
Offensive Coordinator: Matt Kubik
Defensive Coordinator: Mike Collins
Stadium: Malone Stadium (30,427)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 4-8
2016 4-8
2015 2-11
2014 4-8
2013 6-6
Overview
The offense came alive last season. In 2016 they only scored 23 ppg, 2018 33. This year they will top 33 ppg. QB Caleb Evans completed 61 percent of his passes and ran for 579 yards with 13 touchdowns. Marcus Green and R.J. Turner return at receiver for Evans. Green is the teams top returning receiver. He also scored on 4 kick returns last season!
Former Alabama RB Derrick Gore was underwhelming in year one with ULM. He only averaged 3.57 yards per carry. With four starters back on the line, Gore should improve this season. With Evans running ability the running game should take a step forward.
The defense was horrendous last season. They haven't had a season of holding opponents to under 30 ppg since 2014. They gave up 41 points last season. Odds are they won't go under 30 but they will improve this season. Injury bug hit Monroe, LA last season. Half of the secondary was injured last season. Getting Rhoy Williams and Colin Turner back will go along way for this secondary. This could be the strongest unit on the defense.
Linebacker has several experience players. David Griffith had 76 tackles last season and 8.0 tackles for loss. Chase Day and Cortez Sisco combined for 92 tackles. Sophomore Rashaad Harding will see more playing time this season.
The defensive line needs to be much more productive this season if this defense wants to take a step forward. The returning players on the defensive line accounted for only 9.5 of the teams 21 sacks. DE Kerry Starks has the most promise to be that guy. As a freshman he had 2.5 sacks which actually leads all returning players.
While they only went 4-8 they showed a lot of promise. The defense held the team back last season and they may do it again if things don't change. The schedule is manageable to get to 6 wins. They kickoff the Sun Belt season with Troy at home. While that is a big home game. The game at Georgia State could be the make or break game for getting to 6 wins. Something they haven't done since 2013.
Former Alabama RB Derrick Gore was underwhelming in year one with ULM. He only averaged 3.57 yards per carry. With four starters back on the line, Gore should improve this season. With Evans running ability the running game should take a step forward.
The defense was horrendous last season. They haven't had a season of holding opponents to under 30 ppg since 2014. They gave up 41 points last season. Odds are they won't go under 30 but they will improve this season. Injury bug hit Monroe, LA last season. Half of the secondary was injured last season. Getting Rhoy Williams and Colin Turner back will go along way for this secondary. This could be the strongest unit on the defense.
Linebacker has several experience players. David Griffith had 76 tackles last season and 8.0 tackles for loss. Chase Day and Cortez Sisco combined for 92 tackles. Sophomore Rashaad Harding will see more playing time this season.
The defensive line needs to be much more productive this season if this defense wants to take a step forward. The returning players on the defensive line accounted for only 9.5 of the teams 21 sacks. DE Kerry Starks has the most promise to be that guy. As a freshman he had 2.5 sacks which actually leads all returning players.
While they only went 4-8 they showed a lot of promise. The defense held the team back last season and they may do it again if things don't change. The schedule is manageable to get to 6 wins. They kickoff the Sun Belt season with Troy at home. While that is a big home game. The game at Georgia State could be the make or break game for getting to 6 wins. Something they haven't done since 2013.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Caleb Evans, JR, RB
Rushing
Derrick Gore, SR, RB
Receiving
MArcus Greens, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Corey Straughter, SO, CB
Sacks
Kerry Starks, SO, DE
Tackles
David Griffith, SR, LB
Passing
Caleb Evans, JR, RB
Rushing
Derrick Gore, SR, RB
Receiving
MArcus Greens, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Corey Straughter, SO, CB
Sacks
Kerry Starks, SO, DE
Tackles
David Griffith, SR, LB
#3 Louisiana 4-8 (3-5)
Coach: Billy Napier
Offensive Coordinator: Rob Sale
Defensive Coordinator: Ron Roberts
Stadium: Cajun Field (36,900)
Last Five Years Win Totals
2017 5-7
2016 6-7
2015 4-8
2014 9-4
2013 9-4
Offensive Coordinator: Rob Sale
Defensive Coordinator: Ron Roberts
Stadium: Cajun Field (36,900)
Last Five Years Win Totals
2017 5-7
2016 6-7
2015 4-8
2014 9-4
2013 9-4
Overview
QB Jordan Davis led the team in April. They will turn to Levi Lewis or Andre Nunez. Whomever ends up starting has some talented skill position players to lean on. RB Trey Ragas as a freshman took the most carries last season with 142. Another sophomore who burst on the scene was Elijah Mitchell. Mitchell in limited action scored 4 touchdowns. That combo could end up being dangerous for many years to come. Major depth at WR with nearly all of their production coming back. Four players had 30 more catches last season. Ryheem Moore was the best of the group with 4 scores and 676 yards.
The O line is big and full of experience. This should bode well for a running attack that should be featured more.
What a difference a year makes. The Ragin' Cajuns went from giving up 25.3 ppg to 40 ppg. Only 3 starters return from that abysmal defense. The good news is they have incoming talent that will make impacts right away. The line brings in Ole Miss transfer Garrald McDowell at DT and JUCO transfer Chauncey Manac will play DE. Joe Dillon returns on the line where he should thrive back at DE. He had 4.5 sacks last season. Linebacker is their biggest weakness. Jacques Bordeaux returns but he only had 58 tackles last season. The secondary should be strong with the addition of Kendall Johnson at corner. Johnson comes in from Nevada where he had 24 starts. Without Johnson this secondary would likely be the worst in the conference. Corey Turner is back at safety he is the top returning tackler.
Hard to believe that Mark Hudspeth is gone after a fantastic run he had early on. The last three years he only had 15 wins. The defense is a work in progress but at least they got help from JUCO and grad transfers. The offense will be fine as long as the QB play improves. The schedule features a stretch of at App State, Arkansas State, at Troy and home vs Ga State. If they can survive that by going 2-2 things are looking really good. At ULM to end the season will be no easy task.
The O line is big and full of experience. This should bode well for a running attack that should be featured more.
What a difference a year makes. The Ragin' Cajuns went from giving up 25.3 ppg to 40 ppg. Only 3 starters return from that abysmal defense. The good news is they have incoming talent that will make impacts right away. The line brings in Ole Miss transfer Garrald McDowell at DT and JUCO transfer Chauncey Manac will play DE. Joe Dillon returns on the line where he should thrive back at DE. He had 4.5 sacks last season. Linebacker is their biggest weakness. Jacques Bordeaux returns but he only had 58 tackles last season. The secondary should be strong with the addition of Kendall Johnson at corner. Johnson comes in from Nevada where he had 24 starts. Without Johnson this secondary would likely be the worst in the conference. Corey Turner is back at safety he is the top returning tackler.
Hard to believe that Mark Hudspeth is gone after a fantastic run he had early on. The last three years he only had 15 wins. The defense is a work in progress but at least they got help from JUCO and grad transfers. The offense will be fine as long as the QB play improves. The schedule features a stretch of at App State, Arkansas State, at Troy and home vs Ga State. If they can survive that by going 2-2 things are looking really good. At ULM to end the season will be no easy task.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Jordan Davis, SR, QB
Rushing
Tray Ragas, SO, RB
Receiving
Rhyheem Malone, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Six players with 1
Sacks
Joe Dillon, JR, DE
Tackles
Corey Turner, SR, S
Passing
Jordan Davis, SR, QB
Rushing
Tray Ragas, SO, RB
Receiving
Rhyheem Malone, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Six players with 1
Sacks
Joe Dillon, JR, DE
Tackles
Corey Turner, SR, S
5T South Alabama 2-10 (1-7)
Coach: Steve Campbell
Offensive Coordinator: Kenny Edenfield
Defensive Coordinator: Greg Stewart
Stadium: Ladd Peebles (33,500)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 4-8
2016 6-7
2015 5-7
2014 6-7
2013 6-6
Offensive Coordinator: Kenny Edenfield
Defensive Coordinator: Greg Stewart
Stadium: Ladd Peebles (33,500)
Last Five Year Win Totals
2017 4-8
2016 6-7
2015 5-7
2014 6-7
2013 6-6
Overview
How will the running game improve after a gruesome 2017 season? They lose Xavier Johnson their all-time leading rusher. Running back by committee will be the approach until they find a 1-2 punch. The interior of the line has departed which may turn out to be fine but time will tell. They have both tackles back who are certainly capable of landing on all-SBC teams. Overall it isn't looking promising for the run game.
QB is a major question mark with Dallas Davis leaving, Cole Garvin returning and Cephus Johnson getting in the mix. Garvin didn't impress last season. 52% completion rate is about as bad as it gets. Johnson seems like the likely candidate to start but expect to see both QBs unless one runs away with the job. They will have some good targets to throw to. Jamarius Way had 762 yards receiving last season. Sam Harris and Malik Stanley return as well.
The defense made the best of a tough situation with how bad the offense was last season. Overall they don't have a major weakness. Linebacker could be special with new and existing talent. Bull Barge (what a fantastic name for a LB) had 77 tackles last season. JUCO transfer Roy Yancey will see the field a lot this season. Alabama transfer Shawn Jennings is now eligible and is only a sophomore.
The secondary will be in good shape with four starters back. Jalen Thompson returns as well after a redshirt season. Safety Nigel Lawrence made a big jump from his sophomore year to his junior year. D.J. Daniels and Tobias Moss will compete for the other safety spot.
The line brings back 3 of their four starters. Tyree Turner led the team in sacks with 3.5. The team as a whole had 21 sacks last season. They lose half of that production so finding players to pressure the QB are at a premium. Rocel McWilliams is finally eligible after transferring all eyes will be on him to be the guy.
South Alabama has a chance to be really good on defense. The offense may hold them back with questions at QB and if the running game will be able to produce anything. They get Texas State and Coastal Carolina at home this season. Winnable games no doubt. The rest of the schedule presents many challenges. This will not be the year that USA gets back to 6 wins.
QB is a major question mark with Dallas Davis leaving, Cole Garvin returning and Cephus Johnson getting in the mix. Garvin didn't impress last season. 52% completion rate is about as bad as it gets. Johnson seems like the likely candidate to start but expect to see both QBs unless one runs away with the job. They will have some good targets to throw to. Jamarius Way had 762 yards receiving last season. Sam Harris and Malik Stanley return as well.
The defense made the best of a tough situation with how bad the offense was last season. Overall they don't have a major weakness. Linebacker could be special with new and existing talent. Bull Barge (what a fantastic name for a LB) had 77 tackles last season. JUCO transfer Roy Yancey will see the field a lot this season. Alabama transfer Shawn Jennings is now eligible and is only a sophomore.
The secondary will be in good shape with four starters back. Jalen Thompson returns as well after a redshirt season. Safety Nigel Lawrence made a big jump from his sophomore year to his junior year. D.J. Daniels and Tobias Moss will compete for the other safety spot.
The line brings back 3 of their four starters. Tyree Turner led the team in sacks with 3.5. The team as a whole had 21 sacks last season. They lose half of that production so finding players to pressure the QB are at a premium. Rocel McWilliams is finally eligible after transferring all eyes will be on him to be the guy.
South Alabama has a chance to be really good on defense. The offense may hold them back with questions at QB and if the running game will be able to produce anything. They get Texas State and Coastal Carolina at home this season. Winnable games no doubt. The rest of the schedule presents many challenges. This will not be the year that USA gets back to 6 wins.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Cole Garvin, SR, QB
Rushing
Tra Minter, JR, RB
Receiving
Jamarius Way, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Tobis Moss, JR, S
Sacks
Tyree Turner, JR, DT
Tackles
Nigel Lawernce, S, SR
Passing
Cole Garvin, SR, QB
Rushing
Tra Minter, JR, RB
Receiving
Jamarius Way, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
Tobis Moss, JR, S
Sacks
Tyree Turner, JR, DT
Tackles
Nigel Lawernce, S, SR
#5T Texas State 2-10 (1-7)
Coach: Everett Withers
Offensive Coordinator: Zak Kuhr
Defensive Coordinator: Randall McCray
Stadium: Bobcat Stadium (30,000)
Last Five Years Win Totals
2017 2-10
2016 2-10
2015 3-9
2014 7-5
2013 6-6
Offensive Coordinator: Zak Kuhr
Defensive Coordinator: Randall McCray
Stadium: Bobcat Stadium (30,000)
Last Five Years Win Totals
2017 2-10
2016 2-10
2015 3-9
2014 7-5
2013 6-6
Overview
The Bobcats haven't averaged over 20 points per game the past two seasons. Will it happen this season? It will really depend on what happens at QB. Willie Jones III will be looked at as the most likely game one starter but two freshman Jaylen Gipson and Tyler Vitt will be in the running as well. The receiving corps took a hit with Elijah King departing. Senior Tyler Watts seems like the next best option. Many of their top recruits are WR. Jah'Marae Sheread, Jacoby Hopkins and TJ Graham could make an impact if they show flashes this fall camp.
The offensive line brings back several starters. The same guys that gave up 36 sacks. Running game also ranked 102nd in the nation. They were mostly sophomores and freshman last year so this will be the year to see if they are going to formidable for the next couple of years or is it back to the drawing board. Three running backs shared carries last season. Don't expect that to change this year.
The defense actually took a step forward last season. They went from 41 ppg to 33. Five starters from that team are back. The 2017 team didn't force a single interception last season. If that doesn't improve, expect the Bobcats to win around 2 games again. The defensive line had it's struggles too. Only 5.5 of the teams 22 sacks came from the line.
While the line and secondary have their issues the linebackers unit is in good shape despite losing Gabe Lloyd. Bryan London II had 91 tackles last season. OLB Frankie Griffin is one of the only threats on the team to reach the QB. He had 4 sacks and 11.5 tackles for loss.
The offense is a big question mark and has no true identity at the moment. The defense has improved but it is hard to see them improving on 33 points per game this year. In terms of the schedule is all you need to know is they finish with at Ga State, App State at home, at Troy, and Arkansas State home. Ouch.
The offensive line brings back several starters. The same guys that gave up 36 sacks. Running game also ranked 102nd in the nation. They were mostly sophomores and freshman last year so this will be the year to see if they are going to formidable for the next couple of years or is it back to the drawing board. Three running backs shared carries last season. Don't expect that to change this year.
The defense actually took a step forward last season. They went from 41 ppg to 33. Five starters from that team are back. The 2017 team didn't force a single interception last season. If that doesn't improve, expect the Bobcats to win around 2 games again. The defensive line had it's struggles too. Only 5.5 of the teams 22 sacks came from the line.
While the line and secondary have their issues the linebackers unit is in good shape despite losing Gabe Lloyd. Bryan London II had 91 tackles last season. OLB Frankie Griffin is one of the only threats on the team to reach the QB. He had 4 sacks and 11.5 tackles for loss.
The offense is a big question mark and has no true identity at the moment. The defense has improved but it is hard to see them improving on 33 points per game this year. In terms of the schedule is all you need to know is they finish with at Ga State, App State at home, at Troy, and Arkansas State home. Ouch.
Top Returners
Offense
Passing
Willie Jones III, SO, QB
Rushing
Anthony Taylor, JR, RB
Receiving
Tyler Watts, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
None
Sacks
Frankie Griffin, SR, LB
Tackles
Bryan London, JR, LB
Passing
Willie Jones III, SO, QB
Rushing
Anthony Taylor, JR, RB
Receiving
Tyler Watts, SR, WR
Defense
Interceptions
None
Sacks
Frankie Griffin, SR, LB
Tackles
Bryan London, JR, LB