College Football Preview

The College Football Season Begins

It is finally here! College football might have already played one game last week, but it officially begins tonight. Aside from Cal and Hawaii, everyone has a fresh slate. The remaining 126 teams are undefeated and begin their quest towards a national championship thus weekend. Below, you will find predictions from our very own "experts". Keep track throughout the season as we each poke fun at the other for stupid choices.

Corbett's Predictions

@corbeech

National Semifinalists

Florida State, Louisiana State, Ohio State, and Oklahoma

Clemson was the better team last year, but they had a massexodus. Florida State gets to host Clemson this year in a game that will serve as a playoff play-in game. The best player in the game will win. Contrary to popular belief, Clemson doesn't have the best player and they're going to take the L in this one. Out of the Big 12, I feel like Oklahoma has the best shot to make it out unscathed. Baker Mayfield has the tools around him to succeed, all he has to do is stick to the plan and the Sooners will do well. Last year's Buckeye team was one game away from a playoff appearance and an opportunity to repeat. They may have addition by subtraction with losing Cardale Jones. Now that J.T. Barrett doesn't have him looming over his shoulder, he'll be able to play loose and have the Buckeyes operating at peak performance. With LSU, it's basically a pick that I think they can beat Bama when Bama comes to them. Alabama doesn't make it every year and with Fournette trying to redeem a TRASH game against them last year and the Tide going to Death Valley, I wouldn't be surprised to see them Les Miles chewing on grass during a playoff game. 

National Champion

Ohio State

J.T. Barrett is back and is not involved in a quarterback controversy. This will spell trouble for the rest of the Big Ten. Big daddy Urbs is going to be back to cocky mode and you can cancel the call to the heart doctor this season. Urban essentially has an SEC team that gets to play in the Big Ten all year. It is a miracle that they ever lose. They may wind up losing at Oklahoma, but I don't think it will matter when they run the Big Ten table. It's becoming the norm that one loss doesn't ruin a team's chances and losing at a top 5 team in September will not do that this year either.

Heisman Winner

Dalvin Cook, Florida State

I am high on the Dalvin Cook hype train. He was my darkhorse for Heisman all last season, but nagging injuries kept him down. He had two carries in one game (one went 94 yards, but he's cool like that) and missed an entire game later in the season. He still ran for 1691 yards and 19 TDs. All of this while averaging over 7 yards per carry. Dalvin is the man and we're all going to be witnesses this season. As previously implied, he is the best player in the Clemson v FSU game that will be coming this Fall. If the team can remember he is there, they'll be just fine vs Clemson.

Three Bold Predictions

1. Baylor will be a playoff contender

I don't think they'll be able to run the table, but they're going to be a strong team, nonetheless. Old Man Briles may be gone, but young blood Briles is still the OC and Seth Russell is still their quarterback. Don't let their scumminess blind you to their abilities. They will be a strong team and I was tempted to take them to the playoff. Couldn't do it, so now they're here.

2. The ACC will have two teams very close to the playoffs 

This isn't that big of a stretch, but I wouldn't be overly surprised if North Carolina is contending for a spot in the playoff and will have their shot in the ACC Championship. They will have a rematch vs Florida State for all of the marbles. The ACC is sneaky good this year and has 3 legitimate title contenders in Clemson, Florida State, and North Carolina. It wouldn’t surprise me too much if two of them made the playoff.

3. Auburn, Ole Miss, and Georgia will get beat down in week one and the national analysts will question if the ACC has surpassed the SEC

This will take place either immediately after the games or by week 2. This narrative takes place every year and the games in week 1 favor the ACC. After the top three ACC teams have good showings and slap around their SEC opponents, the hot takes will be had by all.

Dug's Predictions

@chansm1th

National Semifinalists

Alabama, Florida State, Oklahoma, and Washington

Alabama is always going to be a team that most people will automatically put in the talk for contending in the playoff race. However, they were my last choice of the four. Alabama is like Kentucky in basketball: they always seem to reload and run towards another championship. Florida State's biggest worry is Clemson. Yes, they play Mississippi in the first week, but win or lose, a win against Clemson (and no more surprises) will be just enough for them to get into the playoff. Oklahoma is going to be the best that the Big 12 has to offer. Washington is my dark horse. When you look at what they bring back, and their schedule, they are a sexy pick coming out of the PAC-12.

National Champion

Oklahoma

It is finally time for Bob Stoops to win another National Championship. The Sooners have been close a few times, but they haven't been able to cash in since winning their last title in 2000, but this might finally be their year. 

Heisman Trophy

Nick Chubb, Georgia

Who can forget the gruesome injury that Chubb suffered last year? Well we're about to. Step aside Leonard Fournette! Nick Chubb is taking your place as the best back in the SEC, along with the Heisman Trophy they are already trying to give you.

Three Bold Predictions

1. This is Gus Malzahn's last season coaching Auburn

Auburn will go 6-6 at best with a 3-5 conference record in the SEC. Do not be surprised if they find themselves needing a win on November 26 when they go to Tuscaloosa. This team could end up 4-8 if things really fall apart.

2. Neither Ohio State nor Michigan will make the Big Ten Championship

Both teams are entering the season in everyone's Top 10 and also lead a lot of the playoff contention talk. Ohio State only returns six starters from a year  ago, yet some people have them in talks for the National Championship. How? Michigan is in year two of the Jim Harbaugh Era after opening it with a 10-3 record. This sechedule does not bode well for them. They go on the road to face Michigan State, Iowa, and Ohio State. The team in the East Division to keep an eye on will be Michigan State.

3. Charlie Strong will keep his job after winning 10 games this season.

In year three, Charlie Strong might have the hottest seat among FBS teams. With an 11-14 record in his first two seasons, it is time to go all out. Texas opens the season with Notre Dame coming to Austin. After last year's embarrassing defeat to the Irish, don't sleep on the Longhorns to make some noise in this matchup. The rest of the schedule is pretty favorable. They draw both Baylor and TCU at home. A loss to Oklahoma and one of the other two will have the fans praising Charlie Strong as his team competes for a spot in the playoff while staying inside the Top 15 throughout the season.

Eric's Predictions

@ericaltenhof

When you walk outside in September and take a deep breath, there's something a little more crisp in the air that lets you know football is here.

And, as certain as week 1 in the college season, there are post season predictions that are sure to be wrong. Here's my predictions that I'll dismiss if wrong, but rub in your face if I'm right.

National Semifinalists

Clemson, LSU, Ohio State, and Oklahoma

I think this is the year LSU climbs up and beats Alabama. The Crimson Tide lose some at QB, and at the time of this writing, are down to a RS Freshman in Blake Barnett and a RS Junior in Cooper Bateman. (Secretly hoping Cooper wins, Cooper is badass name).

The Big 12 doesn't have a true contender to fight off Oklahoma, and neither does Clemson. Florida State will put up a fight, but Clemson is too good right now with DeShaun Watson.

At this point, Michigan is overrated. Maybe they aren't at week 4, but at this point they are. Ohio State gets the Wolverines at home with JT Barrett at QB. I'll take the Buckeyes in that matchup that completely chooses who gets into the playoff.

Again, The Pac-12 will be left out of the College Football Playoff, but I think in the next few years, this will change. The conference is close, but still not enough talent to have any team go 12-0 or 11-1.

National Champion

Clemson

I went back and forth on which would I wanted to for this. I think Clemson comes in as the #1 seed, LSU #2, Oklahoma #3, and Ohio State getting the #4. ESPN will spin the story of REMEMBER LAST TIME OHIO STATE WAS A 4 SEED!!!!!!! But don't sit on that too long, Clemson wins that. This Clemson Oklahoma game was great in the 1st round of the playoffs last year and I only expect more fireworks. But, in the end, Clemson and Dabo Sweeney win the Championship, and I start to wonder why I didn't pick Watson as my Heisman winner.

Heisman Trophy

 Leonard Fournette, LSU

I know McCaffrey is fantastic, but I don't think there is a better offensive football player in the country than Fournette. He's huge, fast, and plays on a team that could challenge for a National Championship. Fournette has a better team around him this year, with a quarterback that's expected to perform at a competent level. There's nothing spectacular I can say about Fournette that hasn't been said, but just watching him play makes fans hold their breath. He may be one of the only players that could take the ball from anywhere on the field and find that end zone.
I really hope Fournette wins it over DeShaun Watson. Nothing against Watson, truly talented, I'm just a Fournette fan.

Three Bold Predictions

1. The Pac-12's best team will have 3 losses

There is a lot of parity in the Pac-12 and that will show in the upcoming season. USC, Arizona, Arizona State, Stanford, and UCLA all have depleted rosters after the NFL Draft, and they will beat up on each other.

2. Georgia Bulldogs win 10 games this season

If they can get by North Carolina and Tennessee the Bulldogs can do it. The SEC East is so lackluster this year, and their SEC West teams are Auburn and Ole Miss. The other 3 non-conference games: Nicolls, Louisiana-Lafayette, and Georgia Tech.

3. USC wins the PAC-12

Coming in at +550 odds to win the championship (tied for 4th behind Stanford, UCLA, and Washington, tied with Oregon). The Trojans have talent, loads of talent, and play in a conference that I think will beat themselves up. The division winner could come down to a tie breaker that I think the Trojans will have.

 

Trey's Predictions
@Tampa_Trey

National Semifinalists

Alabama, Florida State, Ohio State, and TCU

Alabama will just edge Tennessee in the SEC title game for a playoff birth.

Until I see Oklahoma take care of their business when they're expected to, unlike losing to a lowly Texas in 2015, I can't pick them to make it to the playoff. I believe TCU will put an end to the playoff snubbing this year. 

It will come down to Ohio St vs Michigan to decide the Big 10's playoff berth. The winner of that game will win the conference title game en route to the playoff.

Florida St will just edge Clemson and ride that victory to the playoff. I can't say much for a team that allows a guy who beats women (allegedly Kappa) to play without consequence so there you go. 

National Champions

Alabama

Nick Saban is still the difference. That was apparent in last season's title game when he simply out coached Dabo Swinney in the 4th quarter. Until Saban is out coached himself, the story of the season will be who can beat Bama?

Heisman winner

Deshaun Watson, Clemson

There doesn't appear to be much competition for Watson this year after he was barely outvoted by Derrick Henry for last years Heisman trophy. Stanford will need to go undefeated for Christian McCaffery to make a case but that's likely not happening. 

Three bold predictions

1. Houston will upset Oklahoma in the season opener

As I said before Oklahoma needs to take care of its business when they're expected to. This is no exception. Although Houston is a good team they are still Houston and Oklahoma should win this. I believe they will not. 

2. Ole Miss will finish in the bottom half of the SEC West

Despite the lofty expectations and the talent there is a massive black cloud looming over Oxford as Hugh Freeze is likely not to last long at Ole Miss with multiple major NCAA violations ready to be levied on him. Fans are no doubt in deep thought on what the future holds for Ole Miss and this is sure to bring many distractions to the team. 

3. Kentucky will make it to a bowl this year

It's crunch time for Mark Stoops. After two very optimistic years at UK season three was disheartening as the Wildcats lost six of their last seven games to miss out on what was expecting to be a sure-fire bowl bid. However I believe Stoops is still the man to bring Kentucky back to SEC East contention. It won't be this year but the Cats will pull out a few unexpected victories to go bowling.



Follow us on Twitter for more updates, quick takes, and news about future posts!

Sun Belt: Louisiana-Monroe

Louisiana-Monroe Warhawks

2015 Results: 2-11 (1-7, 11th in Sun Belt)

Returning Starters: 7 OFF, 2 DEF, 1 SP

2016 Schedule

September

3rd SOUTHERN

10th at Oklahoma

17th at Georgia Southern

October

1st at Auburn

8th IDAHO

15th TEXAS STATE

22nd at New Mexico

29th at Arkansas State

November

5th SOUTH ALABAMA

12th at Georgia State

19th at Appalachian State

December

3rd LOUISIANA

New head coach Matt Viator is making his FBS debut. Viator had been at McNeese State for the past 16 years, nine of which as the head coach. Now, he is given the monumental task of turning around a Louisiana-Monroe program that hasn't been to the post season since 2012. However, the former offensive coordinator will benefit this season from experience returning on the offensive side of the ball.

Sophomore quarterback Garrett Smith returns, and he has plenty of company. Returning at receiver is sophomore Marcus Green who led the team in receptions (63) and senior Ajalen Holley who lead the team in yards (709). Tyler Cain makes the switch from receiver to running back after missing all of last season with a lower body injury. Cain is the best athlete on the team and has explosive, home run capability. The Warhawks return three on the offensive line who have a wealth of experience.

New defensive coordinator Mike Collins will be implementing a 4-2-5 defense, but he won't inherit much from last year. His front six has been decimated as the only two returning starters are both in the secondary. Safety Tre' Hunter is the leading returning tackler, and he is expected to anchor the secondary along with senior cornerback Lenzy Pipkins. A few of the front six have starting experience, but not enough to bat an eye at. The front line will be made up of Tyler Johnson and Howard Houston who are both incoming junior college transfers.

Player to Watch: Garrett Smith

Smith was the starter as a freshman for the Warhawks. Before a season ending injury, he completed 57.4% of his passes for 2,033 yards, and 17 TDs. Give him a full year, and he will be one of the top quarterbacks in the conference as a junior.

If you only watch them once, watch:

9/10 at Oklahoma

The Warhawks should in all likelihood be coming off a win with excitement for a new season. They will be making the trip to Norman to face a Top-10 team in Oklahoma where a lot of people will see them in the spotlight.

What to Expect

This is a very young team despite the numbers returning to the offense. With new coaches, it is expected to be a rebuilding year, and a long one at that. Fear not though. A young quarterback with the skills that Smith possesses is a valuable tool for the future.

Prediction

2-10 (1-7, Sun Belt)

-Dug

@chansm1th

Sun Belt: Louisiana

Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns

2015 Results: 4-8 (3-5, T-5th in Sun Belt)

Returning Starters: 7 OFF, 7 DEF, 2 SP

2016 Schedule

September

3rd BOISE STATE
10th MCNEESE STATE
17th SOUTH ALABAMA
24th at Tulane

October

1st at New Mexico State
12th APPALACHIAN STATE
22nd at Texas State

November

5th IDAHO
12th at Georgia Southern
19th at Georgia
26th ARKANSAS STATE

December

3rd at Louisiana-Monroe

Not long ago, Louisiana was making it a thing by winning at least nine games and going to bowls. They had four consecutive years where they did such, until a year ago. After starting 4-4, the Ragin' Cajuns found themselves in unfamiliar territory. After losing the final four games of the season, it became apparent that they would be watching the bowl season from home. This year's team will have a chance to return to their winning ways and shake off one season that they hope to forget.

Questions abound, similar to other teams in the conference, about the quarterback situation. The race is currently between sophomore Jordan Davis and redshirt freshman Chris Weaver with neither putting any separation between the other. Elijah McGuire returns to the backfield for his senior season, and he is an All-Sun Belt running back who does it all. The receivers are new, but experienced. That being said, turnover around the rest of the offense, and the quarterback situation, means that this group will have to get winning experience quick.

Seven starters return to a defense that was well known for giving up the big play a year ago. Seven of the tacklers return also to that same unit. The defense will be led by linebackers Tracy Walker and Otha Peters. Safety Savion Brown who had three of the Cajuns' five interceptions a year ago also returns. The defense will be experienced, but as with the offense, they will need to get that winning experience.

Player to Watch: Elijah McGuire

Not only is McGuire the best player for Louisiana, he's also one of the top backs in the Sun Belt. The Do-It-All Back ran for 1,058 yards last year, and also caught 33 passes. He will be the quarterback's best friend, whenever he is named.

If you only watch them once, watch:

9/3 Boise State

The Cajuns host the Broncos this year. This is huge for them to bring in a team of that caliber. With the lights shining bright, they will have a clean slate in the opener, and a new quarterback.

What to Expect

Returning to the nine win level is likely out of the question this year. One thing in their favor is the conference schedule. Louisiana draws both Appalachian State and Arkansas State at home this year. For the Cajuns to make a bowl, they will need more play makers on offense than McGuire, and they will also need to find a way to limit the big plays on defense.

Prediction

5-7 (3-5, Sun Belt)

-Dug

@chansm1th

Sun Belt: Idaho

Idaho Vandals

2015 Results: 4-8 (3-5, 5th in Sun Belt)

Returning Starters: 8 OFF, 6 DEF, 2 SP

2016 Schedule

September

1st MONTANA STATE

10th at Washington

17th at Washington State

24th at UNLV

October

1st TROY

8th at Louisiana-Monroe

15th NEW MEXICO STATE

22nd at Appalachian State

November

5th at Louisiana

12th at Texas State

26th SOUTH ALABAMA

December

 3rd GEORGIA STATE

The Vandals have fallen on hard times. Paul Petrino enters his fourth year as head coach, and after owning a 6-29 record, might be coaching for his job. Idaho is also the one team in the conference that is away from the other institutions. With seven road games on the schedule, that is a hard mountain to climb for anyone.

This edition of the Idaho football team should have the best offence since Petrino got there. Expect the Vandals to pass early and often. Quarterback Matt Linehan returns for his third year starting, and he has talented receivers around him. The Vandals return three receivers who went for over 500 yards a year ago. Deon Watson returns a year after catching seven touchdowns, but Callen Hightower might be the more talented of the two. Hightower closed the year out strong after averaging 112 receiving yards per game in the season's final five contests. Three players are expected to make up the running back committee with junior Aaron Duckworth getting the bulk of the workload.

Last year's defense was atrocious. The Vandals allowed 487.7 yards per game while giving up 42.1 points. For the Vandals to have success, both of those numbers need to bottom out. Linebacker Kaden Elliss recorded 83 tackles as a freshman a year ago, and is expected to continue that high output. Senior defensive end Tueni Lupeamau will hold down the front seven and also called upon for his senior leadership. The secondary will be the strength as they return three while inserting senior D.J. Hampton at corner back.

Player to Watch: Matt Linehan

Linehan is by far the best quarterback in the conference. With questions in the running game, and an abundance of receivers returning, Linehan will have plenty of opportunities to sling the ball. 

If you only watch them once, watch:

9/10 at Washington

They won't win this game, but they will be playing at one of the top teams in the nation. Linehan & Co. will be letting it fly in what should be a high scoring affair.

What to Expect

This season is all or nothing for Idaho. The Vandals are playing for their coaches jobs, but it will be a difficult feat for them to make a bowl with such a tough schedule and only five home games.

Prediction

4-8 (3-5, Sun Belt)

-Dug

@chansm1th

Sun Belt: Georgia State

Georgia State Panthers

2015 Results: 6-7 (5-3. 4th in Sun Belt)

Lost to San Jose State in Cure Bowl

Returning Starters: 6 OFF, 9 DEF

2016 Schedule

September

2nd BALL STATE

10th at Air Force

17th at Wisconsin

October

1st at Appalachian State

8th Texas State

15th at Troy

22nd TENNESSEE-MARTIN

29th at South Alabama

November

 3rd ARKANSAS STATE

12th LOUISIANA-MONROE

19th GEORGIA SOUTHERN

December

3rd at Idaho

Like teams in the Sun Belt before them, Georgia State is adjusting well to the jump in the level of division. The Panthers went to their first bowl game after closing out the season with four straight wins. They return enough personnel that it is not far fetched to believe they won't improve on last year and secure the program's first winning season since moving to the Bowl Subdivision.

The Panthers lose starting quarterback Nick Arbuckle who accumulated 7,600 yards over the past two seasons. Coaches have kept the replacement decision close to the vest as they have stated repeatedly that a starter will not be named before the first game. However, it will likely be former Utah transfer Conner Manning lining up behind center when the Panthers open up with Ball State. Three of the four top receivers return for the Panthers meaning that the eventual quarterback will have plenty of experienced targets. Wide receiver Robert Davis was first team Sun Belt last year, and tight end Keith Rucker was second. The rushing attack was one of the worst in the nation last year after averaging only 96.9 yards per game, but the Panthers are hoping that junior Glenn Smith will turn that statistic around. Three linemen return with a combined 50 starts between them.

The Panthers lost two all-conference players on defense from a year ago, but return the other nine starters. Former UAB linebacker Alonzo McGee returns after leading the team in tackles for loss with 12.5 last season. The secondary returns three led by senior safety Bobby Baker who had three INTs. They key for this defense will be just how much they pressure opposing quarterbacks.

Player to Watch: Penny Hart

The shifty receiver might not be big in size (5-8, 170), but he is the key to the offense. As a freshman, Hart had 71 receptions and was named Sun Belt Freshman of the year. Being the best receiver on the team, Hart is bound to dazzle fans all season long.

If you only watch them once, watch:

9/17 at Wisconsin

Not that we're going to put the Badgers on upset alert, but it is worth noting that they have a conference clash with rival Michigan State the following week. Don't put words in our mouth.

What to Expect

The starting quarterback will be the main question that hangs around this team, but it doesn't mean their sunk. The season will come down to how the Panthers close out the final four games of the season.

Prediction

7-5 (5-3, Sun Belt)

-Dug

@chansm1th

Sun Belt: Georgia Southern

Georgia Southern Eagles

2015 Results: 9-4 (6-2, 3rd in Sun Belt)

Defeated Bowling Green in Go Daddy Bowl

Returning Starters: 6 OFF, 5 DEF, 1 SP

2016 Schedule

September

3rd SAVANNAH STATE

10th at South Alabama

17th LOUISIANA-MONROE

24th at Western Michigan

October

5th at Arkansas State

15th at Georgia Tech

22nd at New Mexico State

27th APPALACHIAN STATE

November

5th at Mississippi

12th LOUISIANA

19th at Georgia State

December

3rd TROY

Georgia Southern enters their third year as an FBS school and also have a new head coach. Tyson Summers made the jump from Colorado State where he was the defensive coordinator, and inherits a top 25 defense from a year ago. After winning a Sun Belt title in their first season, expectations are high to return to that level of play for the program.

The Eagles had the top ranked rushing attack a year ago. Averaging 363 yards on the ground per game, they also return 99% of that production. Leading rusher Matt Breida returns along with the next 5 leading rushers. Summers will employ two quarterbacks this year before settling on a full-time starter. This will be a full option team, but the new coach will be easing in a passing game.

The defense came up huge last year, but was for the most part underappreciated. The secondary suffered the most losses on the side as only one starter returns. Senior linebacker Ironhead Gallon returns as the centerpiece for the 4-3 scheme. Three upfront return including interior linemen Jay Ellison and Darrius Sapp who combine 640 lbs between the two to stop up the middle.

Player to Watch: Matt Breida

Breida returns to the nation's leading rushing attack a year after running for 1,608 yards and 17 TDs. The back already has 3,093 yards in his career, and looks as though he will add to that total considerably. If the passing game can get going as Summer hopes, more holes will open up for Breida whether he needs them or not.

If you only watch them once, watch:

10/15 at Georgia Tech

If you like old-school football, this is your game. Here are two teams who will turn the clock back 60 years to a time when a forward pass was unheard of.

What to Expect

The Eagles have a lot going against them, They have a new coaching staff along with a very difficult schedule. They will need to settle on one quarterback and get the ball down the field quicker if they hope to continue their winning ways.

Prediction

5-7 (3-5, Sun Belt)

-Dug

@chansm1th

Sun Belt: Arkansas State

Arkansas State Red Wolves

2015 Results: 9-4 (8-0, Sun Belt Champions)

Lost to Louisiana Tech in New Orleans Bowl

Returning Starters: 6 OFF, 8 DEF, 1 SP

2016 Schedule

September

3rd TOLEDO

10th at Auburn

17th at Utah State

24th CENTRAL ARKANSAS

October

5th GEORGIA SOUTHERN

15th SOUTH ALABAMA

29th LOUISIANA-MONROE

November

3rd at Georgia State

12th NEW MEXICO STATE

17th at Troy

26th at Louisiana

December

3rd at Texas State

Arkansas State ran through the Sun Belt on their way to a fifth straight bowl appearance. The Red Wolves margin of victory was 21.1 ppg with the closest contest being a 10-point victory (Louisiana). The Red Wolves return enough to make another run at the conference championship, but it remains to be seen if they will dominate the field as they did last year.

The quarterback competition is wide open. It appears as though University of Oklahoma signee Justice Hansen will be calling the plays. The sophomore will benefit from having running backs Johnston White and Warren Ward leading the rushing attack. The Red Wolves lost their top two receivers from a year ago, but hope that Cameron Echols-Luper will put a jolt into the offense. All five members of the line return as seniors.

Four of the eight returning starters on defense won all-conference honors last year. Defensive End Ja'Von Rolland-Jones, who had 13 tackles for loss and 9 sacks a year ago, will be leading the unit as he will be in contention for the conference defensive player of the year. Former Alabama Defensive Tackle Dee Liner is the only new starter in the front six. The secondary will be the question mark. The Red Wolves gave up 267.8 passing yards per game a year ago, and will look to improve on that this season as the back unit will be a work in progress.

Player to Watch: Cameron Echols-Luper

Echols-Luper is the definition of Do-It-All. Not only did he play wide out at TCU, he also played quarterback and even punted. He was also a track and field star. He will be a huge addition to the offense after sitting out last year for transferring.

If you only watch them once, watch:

10/5 Georgia Southern

This game will be sure to define the conference race early. After a decent September schedule, the Red Wolves will begin defending their conference title at home against an up-and-coming Georgia Southern team.

What to Expect

The Red Wolves come into this season with a target on their back. They embarrassed every conference foe they faced last year, and other teams won't soon forget that. The schedule sets up favorably for the repeat. If they can sneak out an early win at Auburn, and unblemished campaign shouldn't be out of the question.

Prediction

10-2 (7-1, Sun Belt)

-Dug

@chansm1th

Sun Belt: Appalachian State

Appalachian State Mountaineers

2015 Results: 11-2 (7-1, 2nd in Sun Belt)

Defeated Ohio in Camellia Bowl

Returning Starters: 6 OFF, 9 DEF, 1 SP

2016 Schedule:

September

1st at Tennessee

10th OLD DOMINION
17th MIAMI

24th at Akron

October

1st GEORGIA STATE

12th at Louisiana

22nd IDAHO

27th at Georgia Southern

November

5th TEXAS STATE

12th at Troy

19th LOUISIANA-MONROE

26th at New Mexico State

We all remember the time and where we were when Appalachian State went into the Big House and knocked off the giant that was Michigan. Around that time, the Mountaineers began to take college football by storm from the FCS level. Entering their third year as an FBS school, the Mountaineers are continuing to turn heads. In two years in the big leagues, they have went 18-7 overall with a 13-3 record in the Sun Belt. Last year, they were 11-2 with their only conference loss being to Arkansas State that ended up deciding the Sun Belt Champion. This year, they are back for more.

Appy returns six starters on offense. Junior Taylor Lamb will return for his third year calling signals. Marcus Cox will be getting the bulk of the carries for his senior campaign, but the Mountaineers return 3,032 rushing yards from a season ago. There isn't much experience when it comes to pass catching as they only return one of their top four receivers from a year ago. Senior Tight End Barrett Burns, who pulled in 8 TDs last year, is the lone returner.

The Mountaineers return almost all of their defense from last year including their top two tacklers. Linebackers Eric Boggs (104) and John Law (72) will anchor the defense in the middle. Junior Corner Back Latrell Gibbs (7 INTs) will hold down the back line that only lost one starter. The only issue from a year ago that must be corrected is rushing defense. The Mountaineers held five opponents to less than 60 yards, but gave up a combined 741 to Arkansas State, Wyoming, and South Alabama.

Player to Watch: Marcus Cox

The senior tailback will lead a deep and talented rushing attack. As one of the best backs in the conference, Cox ran for 1,423 yards just a year ago. Watch out for the same.

If you only watch them once, watch:

9/17 Miami

The Hurricanes make the trip up to the mountains smack in the middle of September. This is a huge opportunity for the Mountaineers to make a statement against a Power 5 team. 

What to Expect

State gets to avoid the Red Wolves this year. Should they steal a win from either Tennessee or Miami in September, they would be in the mix for another 10-plus win season. Take care of business in conference, and they have a shot to win it.

Prediction

8-4 (6-2, Sun Belt)

-Dug

@chansm1th

Fourth of July Break and Return

Good Saturday Morning! What a week it has been. The Fourth of July for us ungrateful colonists was on Monday and let's just say that we here at Smith Bros. Sports have taken an extended vacation. Sorry, not sorry. Hopefully you didn't Jason Pierre-Paul yourself, otherwise, it would be difficult for you to leave us a comment.

This coming week, we have a lot of content for you. We will be continuing our preview of the upcoming college football season as Alty brings you up to speed on the Independents, and Corbeech fills you in on the Sun Belt (aka FunBelt). After that, it is on to the Power 5 Conferences as we get ever close to live football.

We've missed a lot this past week. Quite a bit of the NBA free agents season and also the announcements of the MLB All-Star teams. We'll try to sort through it all as best as we can.

Thank you for taking the time to read, and we hope that you are having a wonderful holiday week!

-Dug

@chansm1th

College Football Preview: Wyoming

Wyoming Cowboys

2015 Results: 2-10 (2-6, 6th in Mountain)

Returning Starters: 9 OFF, 8 DEF, 1 SP

2016 Schedule

September

3rd NORTHERN ILLINOIS

10th at Nebraska

17th UC DAVIS

24th at Eastern Michigan

October

1st at Colorado State

8th AIR FORCE

22nd at Nevada

29th BOISE STATE

November

5th UTAH STATE

12 at UNLV

19th SAN DIEGO STATE

26th at New Mexico

The Cowboys had a rough go at it last year. The young team took their lumps as they are the only team in the conference who lost to an FCS team. However, this team could be the best they've had in years. If their young talent can learn how to win, this team could have one of the better turnarounds of any team in the nation. 

Sophomore Josh Allen will take over the offense. Coach Craig Bohl said that Allen has the strongest arm of anyone in the Mountain West, but that he didn't know where the ball would be when it got to where it was going. Junior tailback Brian Hill returns and will be a force for the Cowboys on offense. All receivers returning will be seniors this year so Allen will have plenty of experience to throw at. The offensive line returns four and should have an easy time blocking for Hill.

The defense is young. They will need to be tested before it is clear how much they have improved. The defense will start six sophomores and a freshman. The early part of the schedule will give them plenty of in-game experience for the second half of the season in conference. Free safety Andrew Wingard returns for his sophomore season after making the freshman All-American team last year. 

Player to Watch: Brian Hill

Hill is a monster. Last season, he rushed for 1,631 yards as a sophomore. For him to do nearly as much damage, the passing game will have to hit the ground running. Hill was a former safety in high school before Bohl talked him into coming to Wyoming to play running back. Hill is now one of the top running backs in the conference, and will pick up right where he left off last year.

If you only watch them once, watch:

9/10 at Nebraska

This early season match-up will give fans an idea of where the team is. It will also give Wyoming a television spot in the midwest that will bolster their recruiting in the area.

What to Expect

The schedule works out for the Cowboys. They have top teams from the conference at home (Air Force, Boise State, and San Diego State). The Cowboys could also have a season that they remember for a long time. If the young team can hit the ground running, other teams will have a hard time stopping them.

Prediction

9-3 (6-2, MWC)

-Dug

@chansm1th

College Football Preview: Utah State

Utah State Aggies

2015 Results: 6-7 (5-3, 3rd in Mountain)

Lost to Akron in Famous Idaho Potato Bowl

Returning Starters: 6 OFF, 3 DEF, 2 SP

2016 Schedule

September

1st WEBER STATE

10th at Southern Cal

17th ARKANSAS STATE

24th AIR FORCE

October

1st at Boise State

8th at Colorado State

22nd FRESNO STATE

29th SAN DIEGO STATE

November

5th at Wyoming

12th NEW MEXICO

19th at Nevada

26th at Brigham Young

The Aggies featured one of the conferences top defenses. Ranked 17th nationally, they will face a lot of turnovers on the defensive side as a few have moved on to the professional level. This year's defense will be a huge rebuilding process seeing as the Aggies will have a new defensive coordinator. 

Offense won't be a problem for Utah State. They return 6 starters, but have 10 players with starting experience. Quarterback Kent Myers will come into this season as his first starting full time. He filled in for Chuckie Keeton and excelled. Along with Myers, two more of last year's top rushers return. Devante Mays and LaJuan Hunt return. The three combined last season for over 1,600 yards. Three return on the offensive line that will be able to open the holes for the Aggies' rushing attack. Seniors Andrew Rodriguez and Wyatt Houston return to lead a new group of receivers.

The defense will need to rebuild. Only three return from 2015 which saw one of the best defenses they've had in Logan in a long time. It is very likely that all starting jobs will be open to competition when fall comes around. Only five positions are expected to be fill with seniors. It could be a long season with this unproven defense. Similar to UNLV, Utah State will need to be ready for some shootouts if their defense doesn't get going quickly.

Player to Watch: Kent Myers

Myers will lead the Aggies on offense. The dual threat quarterback is one of the most athletic players in the conference. Last season, Myers threw for 1,593 yards, 16 TDs, and only three interceptions. He also ran for 966 yards. There's not much that he can't do.

If you only watch them once, watch:

9/10 at Southern Cal

The USC game will be a tough way to open the season, but it should get the Aggies a lot of exposure. The Trojans will have a defense needing rebuilt like Utah State. This could be a high scoring affair, and if it turns out like that, it could be anyone's game.

What to Expect

The Aggies will put up a lot of points, but their defense will give up nearly as much. They lost too much to pick up right where they left off. It is had to imagine that they will keep their five year bowl streak alive.

Prediction

4-8 (2-6, MWC)

-Dug

@chansm1th