This preview appears well researched. I'll be interested to see what Phil's preview says. I'll also like to see what L.C. thinks about this years squad.
Bill calls out the tight end position with our newcomers. This is definitely a position we could make better use of for passing purposes.
If this years freshman class is as good as the rating people say then we will probably see some of these players getting some PT.
There is no doubt that we have some big shoes to fill on the offense; in the back field, receiver corp, and O-line. I believe that the D will be better this year than last.
The other aspect of last years team that made a statement was how the team reacted to the Miami loss. They did not fold like in 2017. We won the 3 remaining games, including Buffalo, and by big margins. That showed me that they have grown as a team to be able to over come adversity and disappointment.
GO BOBCATS
My expectation is an Ohio MACC, and not only that, a dominating MACC, however, there are some question marks, notably the losses of two coaches. The MACC is dependent on a smooth transition to new coaches. That has generally happened in the past, however.
Yes, Ohio loses a lot on Offense, but the depth last year was very good, and the backups got a lot of playing time due to the wide margins of victory, so I expect the newcomers to step in and be ready to play. The offense was especially hard hit, but the key, Rourke, returns, and there are multiple running backs competing for the starting RB job. Honestly, I have no clue who will earn the job, but there are at least 4 that have the potential to do the job, Ross, Allison, Tuggle, and Wilbon. The WR lose Meyer and White, but I have confidence in Buckner and Cox to continue to bring explosive plays. The defense returns excellent depth across the board, and should be a strong point.
All that said, the other top teams in the MAC mostly look to be having an off year next year. Buffalo, who would have been Ohio's key threat, was hit heavily by transfers. Miami, Ohio's other threat, lost their QB, and also will have to come to Athens this time. Meanwhile, the West appears to be heading towards increased parity. I expect NIU Toledo, and EMU to all be a shade worse next year, while WMU, Ball State, and CMU all improve.
In the end, I see Ohio at close to last year's level, while the other top teams (Toledo, NIU, EMU, Miami, and Buffalo) all regress, some more than others, which should leave Ohio alone at the top.
Last Edited: 2/22/2019 4:49:32 PM by L.C.