College Football Preview: San Jose State

San Jose State Spartans

2015 Results: 6-4 (4-4, 3rd in West)

Defeated Georgia State in Cure Bowl

Returning Starters: 8 OFF, 6 DEF, 1 SP

2016 Schedule:

September

3rd at Tulsa

10th PORTLAND STATE

17th UTAH

24th at Iowa State

October

1st at New Mexico

8th HAWAII

15th NEVADA

21st at San Diego State

29th UNLV

November

5th at Boise State

19th AIR FORCE

26th at Fresno State

Because there weren't enough winning teams last year, a few 5-7 teams were invited to bowls. San Jose State was one of them. The Spartans were one of a few teams in history to have won their bowl game, but have a losing record. They were led by young talent, but faced a difficult schedule. This year, they still have a tough one.

Senior Kenny Potter returns at starting quarterback to lead an experienced offense. The only position lacking a returning starter is running back. Junior Thomas Tucker is expected to get the nod, but the Spartans will likely be running back by committee. Potter's favorite targets, tight end Billy Freeman and wide out Tyler Winston both return. Four starters return to the offensive line. This offense will be seasoned after playing last year's rough campaign, and should turn the corner this year moving forward. 

Former Eastern Michigan head coach Ron English will take over the job of defensive coordinator. In his first year, this defense will be shuffled around. Three of the front seven return, however, five in the group are seniors including linebacker Christian Tago. Tago is the best NFL prospect on this team despite being undersized for his position. As a fourth year starter, he will be the vocal leader of this team. The secondary returns half of a unit that ranked second in the nation while only allowing 157.8 passing yards per game.

Player to Watch: Kenny Potter

Potter is classified as a pocket passer, but if needed, he can use his legs. This will be his second season starting for the Spartans and he has already established himself as the most accurate passer in the conference. 

If you only watch them once, watch:

9/17 Utah

This game will played at home, so there is nothing certain. The fact that Utah will be playing Southern Cal the following week might work out to San Jose's advantage.

What to Expect

The Spartans have improved each year under head coach Ron Caragher. It's almost certain that with as much talent coming back as they have that the trend will continue. However, a difficult schedule that includes road games to San Diego State and Boise will be key moments in the development of this team.

Prediction

7-5 (6-2, MWC)

-Dug

@chansm1th