Middle Tennesee State University Athletics
Breaking down the 2017 football schedule
2/15/2017 10:30:00 AM | Football
MT opens with SEC foe Vanderbilt at home
Middle Tennessee has some notable teams on the docket for its 2017 football schedule, and fans now have a chance to take a closer look at each team the blue and white will square off with beginning in September.
The Blue Raiders will begin the season Sept. 2 at home against in-state foe Vanderbilt before hitting the road for contests against Syracuse and Minnesota in Weeks 2 and 3. They will then wrap up the nonconference slate on Sept. 23 at home against Bowling Green before entering Conference USA play.
MT's C-USA schedule starts at FAU Sept. 30 before coming home the following week to face FIU. The Raiders then travel to UAB before again returning home to face Marshall and UTEP with a bye week in between.
Their last two road games will be at Charlotte and WKU on Nov. 11 and 18, respectively, then the regular season finishes with a senior day matchup at home against Old Dominion on Nov. 25.
Here's an early breakdown of every team on the schedule, with notes on each:
Vanderbilt
2016 recap: Things didn't start well for Vanderbilt a season ago, but it ended up being head coach Derek Mason's best season yet in Nashville. Through six games, the Commodores were just 2-4, with their two wins coming over Middle Tennessee and WKU. From there everything changed. The Dores ended with four wins in their last seven games, including one against rival Tennessee, on their way to a 6-7 record and 3-5 in the SEC. They may have lost to NC State 41-17 in the Independence Bowl, but Mason should be optimistic after his team won the most games in a season and had its best record in SEC play under his tutelage.
Head coach: Derek Mason, 23-34 in three seasons with team, same overall
Offensive coordinator: Andy Ludwig
Defensive coordinator: Derek Mason
Expected returning starters
Offense: 9
Defense: 8
Key starters lost
- LB Zach Cunningham: Redshirt junior declared for the NFL draft; All-American selection in 2015 and 2016, First Team All-SEC in 2015 and 2016; 295 total tackles, 177 unassisted stops, 39.5 tackles for loss, six quarterback sacks, seven forced fumbles and seven fumble recoveries in his VU career
- LT Will Holden: Redshirt senior ended career with 37-straight starts; Second Team All-SEC in 2016
Key players to watch out for (grades listed are for 2017-18 school year)
- RB Ralph Webb, R-Sr.: 1,283 rushing yards, 13 rushing TDs, 5.1-yard average in 2016; all-time VU leader with 3,342 rushing yards, 22 career rushing TDs; set a career high with 211 rushing yards against MT in 2016
- QB Kyle Shurmur, Jr.: 2,409 passing yards, 9 passing TDs, 10 INTs, 54.4 percent completion percentage in first full year as starter in 2016
- S LaDarius Wiley, Jr.: Second on the team with 76 total tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles; started 7 games in 2016; recovered a fumble for 55 yards against MT
2017 projection
"Vanderbilt will return all-time leading rusher Ralph Webb, power back Khari Blasingame, quarterback Kyle Shurmur and all of its major receiving targets. The offense must be more productive, but it was among the nation's leaders in fewest turnovers and red-zone efficiency.
"Defensively, the Commodores must replace All-American linebacker Zach Cunningham, but they should still tout one of the best units in the SEC. Linebacker Oren Burks will help lead a strong front-seven.
"Last season, Vanderbilt made its first bowl appearance since 2013, and it should be in contention for another bid." – Adam Sparks, Vanderbilt beat writer for the Tennessean.
Syracuse
2016 recap: Dino Babers' first season as head coach at Syracuse was filled with ups and downs. The Orange started a respectable 4-4 through eight games, but they lost their last four, including a 76-61 shootout with Pittsburgh in the season's final week, to finish 4-8 and 2-6 in ACC play. Numerous school season records were broken, some good (Amba Etta-Tawo had SU season highs in catches, receiving yards and receiving TDs) and some bad (463 total points allowed). Babers is hoping his second year at the helm is more consistent than his first.
Head coach: Dino Babers, 4-8 in one season with team, 41-24 in five years overall
Co-Offensive coordinators: Sean Lewis, Mike Lynch
Defensive coordinator: Brian Ward
Expected returning starters
Offense: 9
Defense: 11
Key starters lost
- WR Amba Etta-Tawo: Third Team All-American (Associated Press) and First Team All-ACC in 2016; set school single-season records with 1,482 receiving yards and 14 receiving TDs, including 5 against Pittsburgh; 94 receptions tied school record
Key players to watch out for (grades listed are for 2017-18 school year)
- WR Ervin Phillips, Sr.: 90 receptions (second in school history), 822 receiving yards, 6 receiving TDs in 2016; All-ACC Honorable Mention
- QB Eric Dungey, Jr.: Started 9 games in 2016 and missed the last 3 due to injury; 2,679 passing yards, 21 total (15 passing) TDs, 7 INTs
- LB Zaire Franklin, Sr.: Second on team with 101 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, 1 INT in 2016; All-ACC Third Team
- LB Parris Bennett, Sr.: Led team with 110 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 3 forced fumbles in 2016; All-ACC Honorable Mention
2017 projection
"After finishing 4-8 in Year one under Dino Babers, Syracuse returns with increased depth and bowl aspirations in 2017.
"Babers' hurry-up spread offense is expected to start fully clicking between Weeks 4 and 6. Junior quarterback Eric Dungey, if he can remain healthy, should be one of the top quarterbacks in the ACC. He returns senior slot receiver Erv Philips and senior wide receiver Steve Ishmael as his top targets while junior college tight end Ravian Pierce could make immediate contributions. The offensive line will be young and inexperienced for the second year in a row.
"On defense, the Orange feature two studs in middle linebacker Zaire Franklin and weak-side 'backer Parris Bennett. The return of senior safety Antwan Cordy should allow SU to use more man coverages out of its Tampa-2 scheme. Up front, redshirt junior defensive tackle Chris Slayton leads the way." – Stephen Bailey, Syracuse beat writer for the Syracuse Post-Standard.
Minnesota
2016 recap: The first season as head coach at Minnesota turned into Tracy Claeys' only season with the Golden Gophers when he was fired on Jan. 4. It wasn't the Gophers' play on the field that got Claeys tossed – they went a very respectable 9-4 overall and 5-4 in Big Ten play. It was a player boycott and sexual assault allegations before the Holiday Bowl that eventually led to his firing, and former Western Michigan head coach P.J. Fleck was hired two days after their bowl victory over Washington State.
Head coach: P.J. Fleck, first season with team, 30-22 in four seasons overall
Offensive coordinator: Kirk Ciarrocca
Defensive coordinator: Robb Smith
Expected returning starters
Offense: 8
Defense: 5
Key starters lost
- RT Jonah Pirsig: 30 starts in four seasons, Third Team All-Big Ten selection in 2016
- WR Drew Wolitarsky: Team leader in catches (66), receiving yards (860) and receiving TDs (5) in 2016
- S Damarius Travis: Team high 83 tackles, 2 INTs, 6 passes defended in 2016
Key players to watch out for (grades listed are for 2017-18 school year)
- RB Rodney Smith, R-Jr.: Rushed 240 times for 1,158 yards and 16 TDs in 2016; named Third Team All-Big Ten
- LB Jonathan Celestin, Sr.: Played in all 13 games, 10 starts; 80 tackles were second highest on the team, 7 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, 4 passes defended
- LB Blake Cashman, Jr.: Started just one game but led the team with 7.5 sacks, 45 tackles, 1 forced fumble; won a Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week award and Holiday Bowl Defensive MVP
2017 projection
"First-year head coach P.J. Fleck enters an interesting situation in Minneapolis. The team is coming off a tumultuous year in which several players were suspended and kicked off the team and campus due to horrific allegations.
"While it may be tough to see the Gophers having a lot of success in 2017, Fleck's winning reputation could propel them to a surprising season. Plus, he gets two good linebackers and the team's leading rusher back and he made a late splash on the recruiting trail.
"With three-year starting quarterback Mitch Leidner graduated, Fleck's biggest obstacle on the field could be finding a starting QB by the time the season comes." – Andy Gredder, Minnesota staff writer for the St. Paul Press.
Bowling Green
2016 recap: It was a tough start to Mike Jinks' tenure as head coach at Bowling Green. The Falcons won just one of their first nine games before going on a three-game winning streak to end the season 4-8 and 3-5 in the MAC, three losses of which came by seven points or fewer. Their second loss of the season came in Week 3 when Middle Tennessee traveled to Doyt Perry Stadium and left with a 41-21 victory thanks to 260 all-purpose yards (157 rushing) and four touchdowns (three rushing) from redshirt senior running back I'Tavius Mathers.
Head coach: Mike Jinks, 4-8 in one season with team, same overall
Co-Offensive coordinators: Kevin Kilmer, Andy Padron
Defensive coordinator: Perry Eliano
Expected returning starters
Offense: 6
Defense: 7
Key starters lost
- RB Fred Coppet: Team leader in rushes (204), rushing yards (1,030) and rushing TDs (8); Third Team All-MAC in 2016
- LB Trenton Greene: Led team with 111 tackles and 3 forced fumbles, 8.5 tackles for loss, 4 sacks in 2016; First Team All-MAC in 2016, Second Team All-MAC in 2015
Key players to watch out for (grades listed are for 2017-18 school year)
- QB James Morgan, R-So.: Made 7 starts, BG freshman record 16 TD passes, second-most passing yards as a BGSU freshman with 2,082, first freshman QB at BG to throw for 250-plus yards in four-straight games, 15 INTs in 2016
- WR Scott Miller, Jr.: Team highs in receptions (74), receiving yards (968) and receiving TDs (10); named First Team All-MAC in 2016
2017 projection
"On offense, the Falcons return sophomore QB James Morgan, who threw for 2,082 yards and 16 TDs in his first year as a starter, as well as All-MAC receiver Scottie Miller and a number of other receivers. Late last season BG became more ground-oriented on offense, and the return of All-MAC lineman Tim McAuliffe and power back Donovan Wilson should continue that trend.
"Defensively, the Falcons improved as the season progressed – because young players gained confidence with added experience. The return of injured cornerback Clint Stevens and All-MAC safety Jamari Bozeman should boost the secondary, while a return to health by Austin Valdez should aid the linebacking corps. And All-MAC punter Joseph Davidson also is a weapon.
"While Bowling Green saw a string of four straight bowl bids snapped last season, the Falcons showed improvement by finishing on a three-game winning streak. Three of the team's five MAC losses were by seven points or less, a gap BG must close to return to the MAC Championship game for the fourth time in five seasons." – John Wagner, BGSU beat writer for the Toledo Blade.
FAU
2016 recap: It isn't surprising that FAU fired head coach Charlie Partridge one day after Middle Tennessee put up 77 points and 757 total yards in a 77-56 win in the regular season finale. The Owls won just three games, two of which came in Conference USA play, in 2016, bringing his three-season record in Boca Raton to 9-27. With new head coach Lane Kiffin and a young roster, FAU expects to be better in 2017.
Head coach: Lane Kiffin, first season with team, 35-21 in five seasons overall
Offensive coordinator: Kendal Briles
Defensive coordinator: Chris Kiffin
Expected returning starters
Offense: 9
Defense: 9
Key starters lost
DE Trey Hendrickson: Second in C-USA with 9.5 sacks and 15 tackles for loss, 50 total tackles; C-USA Defensive Player of the Year in 2016; All-C-USA First Team selection in 2016 and 2015
Key players to watch out for (grades listed are for 2017-18 school year)
RB Greg Howell, Sr.: Team highs in rushing attempts (167) and rushing TDs (13), 828 rushing yards
RB Devin Singletary, So.: Team high 1,021 rushing yards, 12 rushing TDs, second on team with 26 catches; All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2016; rushed for 235 yards against MT in 2016
LB Azeez Al-Shaair, Jr.: Team high 113 total tackles, 12 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, second in C-USA with 9.4 tackles per game in 2016
2017 projection
"The 2017 season will be a transitional one for FAU – and the Owls will be making the transition in front of a national audience. FAU fired coach Charlie Partridge following the 2016 season, then made national news by hiring Lane Kiffin as the program's fifth coach. Kiffin, in turn, hired former Baylor offensive coordinator Kendal Briles to rev up the Owls' offense.
"The first task for Kiffin and Briles will be identifying a quarterback. Jason Driskel and Daniel Parr started games for the Owls last season and both return for 2017. They'll be challenged by transfer De'Andre Johnson, who began his career at Florida St. The Owls return running backs Buddy Howell and Devin Singletary – a duo that combined for 25 touchdowns last season.
"On defense, the Owls will be trying to replace Conference USA Player of the Year Trey Hendrickson. Even with Hendrickson, though, FAU's defense proved porous much of the season. Chris Kiffin, brother of Lane and son of famed NFL defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin, is tasked with coordinating a defense that finished near the bottom of the FBS in total defense and scoring defense." – Chuck King, managing editor and FAU beat writer for OwlAccess.com.
FIU
2016 recap: It was a roller coaster-type season for FIU. The Panthers started an abysmal 0-4 and fired head coach Ron Turner before rattling off three-straight wins over the middle of the season, but a three-game losing streak ended their bowl hopes before the regular season was completed. Butch Davis was then officially hired on Nov. 15 to lead the team. Middle Tennessee won the 2016 matchup 42-35 thanks to a DJ Sanders 48-yard interception return for a touchdown with 1:30 remaining in the game.
Head coach: Butch Davis, first season with team, 79-43 in 10 seasons overall
Offensive coordinator: Rich Skrosky
Defensive coordinator: Brent Guy
Expected returning starters
Offense: 7
Defense: 6
Key starters lost
- OT Dieugot Joseph: Started 33 games in his career, All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2016
- C Michael Montero: Started 25 games in his career, All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2016
Key players to watch out for (grades listed are for 2017-18 school year)
- LB Treyvon Williams, R-Sr.: Led team with 109 total tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 3 sacks; All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2016
- LB Anthony Wint, Sr.: Second on team with 108 total tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles; Second Team All-CUSA in 2016
- RB Alex Gardner, Sr.: Led team in rushes (181), rushing yards (930), rushing TDs (6) and all-purpose yards (1,546); school's all-time leading rusher; All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2016
2017 projection
"Butch [Davis] and FIU Athletic Director Pete Garcia go way back to Butch's days in the NFL. It was kind of natural to bring in Butch. I think he's in a good spot – the bar is so low, at like six wins, that it won't be that difficult for him to achieve. They've only been to two bowl games in the history of the program, so if he gets to a bowl game he will reach expectations.
"They return a significant amount of talent for the league and have a proven quarterback. He might not win the job, but Davis has the option of going to a fourth-year quarterback who has some experience. There's also a one-two punch at running back coming back and most of the receivers return.
"This team is kind of set up to do something in the short-term with Butch. I wouldn't be surprised if they are in a bowl game this coming season. That could give Davis some extra credibility right off the bat. Then in the long-term, you have to like his chances because of the recruiting base he has down here and those low expectations." – Walter Villa, writer for the Miami Herald.
UAB
2016 recap: Blazer football is officially back. After deciding to terminate its football program in December 2014, UAB announced just a month later it would begin again in the FBS and Conference USA West division starting in 2017. The Blazers may not have a lot to build off of just yet, but head coach Bill Clark and his squad are itching to get back onto the field against Division I competition.
Head coach: Bill Clark, 6-6 in one season with team (2014), 17-10 in two seasons overall
Offensive coordinator: Les Koenning
Defensive coordinator: David Reeves
Key players to watch out for (grades listed are for 2017-18 school year)
QB AJ Erdely, R-Jr.: Started at Middle Tennessee but transferred after redshirt freshman season to Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College for a season, then to UAB; named starter in spring 2016
2017 projection
"It's still to be determined what UAB will look like. There are a lot of 22-23-year-olds on the roster as UAB stacked up on junior college transfers over the past three signing classes. So, the return won't be filled with a bunch of intimidated freshmen.
"Some former UAB players have returned, including linebacker Shaq Jones and receiver Collin Lisa. I wouldn't count the Blazers out from competing for bowl eligibility after seeing what Bill Clark and his staff did in 2014 coming off a 2-10 season with previous head coach Garrick McGee." – Drew Champlin, UAB beat writer for Al.com.
Marshall
2016 recap: The 2016 season was by far the worst for Marshall under head coach Doc Holliday. The Thundering Herd compiled just a 3-9 record, 2-6 in Conference USA play, highlighted by a season finale throttling at the hands of WKU 60-6. One of the Herd's wins did come against Middle Tennessee, 42-17 on Nov. 12. That was the first game for the Blue Raiders after redshirt sophomore quarterback Brent Stockstill went down with a broken collarbone.
Head coach: Doc Holliday, 53-37 in 7 seasons with team, same overall
Offensive coordinator: Bill Legg
Defensive coordinator: Chuck Heater
Expected returning starters
Offense: 7
Defense: 8
Key starters lost
- OT Clint Van Horn: Started 35 games in his career
- DE Gary Thompson: Led team with 5 sacks in 2016; finished career with 48 games played, 19 sacks, 29 tackles for loss
Key players to watch out for (grades listed are for 2017-18 school year)
- QB Chase Litton, Jr.: Completed 62.3 percent of his passes, 2,612 passing yards, 24 TDs, 9 INTs; threw for 246 yards and 4 TDs in 42-17 win over MT in 2016
- RB Keion Davis, R-Sr.: Led team with 469 rushing yards and 1,128 all-purpose yards in 9 games in 2016
- LB Frankie Hernandez, R. Jr.: 46 total tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks in just 8 games in 2016; missed four games due to knee injury
2017 projection
"After collapsing from 10-3 to 3-9, the big question with this Marshall team is this: Who will play on this team?
"Props such as LB Jaquan Yulee will have to make an immediate impact, as will several JUCO imports and transfers such as WR Tyre Brady. Brady must stand out at the wide-open WR position.
"Chase Litton is no longer a shoo-in as starting QB, as he was at this point last year." – Doug Smock, Marshall beat writer for the Charleston Gazette-Mail.
UTEP
2016 recap: Even with Conference USA's leading rusher, Aaron Jacobs, UTEP failed to get much momentum all season on either side of the ball. The Miners finished 4-8 and 2-6 in C-USA play, but they did get the most exciting win in the conference when they took down UTSA 52-49 in five overtimes. They also finished the season with a big 52-24 victory over North Texas on senior day. With Jacobs enrolling early for the NFL, UTEP will have to find another weapon to lead its offense.
Head coach: Sean Kugler, 18-31 in 4 seasons with team, same overall
Offensive coordinator: Brent Pease
Defensive coordinator: Tom Mason
Expected returning starters
Offense: 6
Defense: 7
Key starters lost
- RB Aaron Jones: Enrolled early for NFL; led C-USA with 1,773 rushing yards and 147.8 yards per game average in 2016; 17 rushing TDs, 233 receiving yards, 3 receiving TDs in 2016; All-CUSA First Team in 2016, All-CUSA Second Team in 2014, All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2015; UTEP all-time leading rusher (4,114 yards) and 7th all-time in C-USA
- LT Jerome Daniels: Made 35 starts in his career
- LB Nick Usher: Team high 5.5 sacks, 77 total tackles in 2016
Key players to watch out for (grades listed are for 2017-18 school year)
- QB Ryan Metz, Jr.: 1,375 passing yards, 14 passing TDs, 4 INTs; started 7 games in 2016
- LB Alvin Jones, Sr.: Led team with 93 total tackles, 6 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks; started 8 games in 2016; Second Team All-CUSA in 2016
- LG Will Hernandez, Sr.: Started all 37 games in his career; First Team All-CUSA in 2016
2017 projection
"A team that prides itself on power running and loaded with returnees on the offense line, receiver and quarterback will have to replace the school's all-time leading rusher Aaron Jones, who left early for the NFL draft after a 1,773-yard season.
"A defense that traditionally has struggled is also full of returners in every unit as it looks to improve in the second year of its 3-4 system." – Bret Bloomquist, UTEP beat writer for the El Paso Times.
Charlotte
2016 recap: The second season in FBS was an overall success for the Charlotte 49ers. They doubled their overall wins from two in 2015 to a 4-8 record in 2016 and won their first-ever game in Conference USA play, finishing 3-5 in the conference. Their 19 seniors who played their last home game against Middle Tennessee on Nov. 19 were the first recruiting class for the school, and the biggest name from the group, Larry Ogunjobi, may be the first 49er to be drafted in the NFL. Charlotte almost took down the Blue Raiders during its senior day, but a last-minute, 61-yard Ty Lee rushing score gave MT a 38-31 win.
Head coach: Brad Lambert, 16-30 in 4 seasons with team, same overall
Offensive coordinator: Jeff Mullen
Defensive coordinator: Matt Wallerstedt
Expected returning starters
Offense: 6
Defense: 6
Key starters lost
- RB Kalif Phillips: 1,149 all-purpose yards (907 rushing), 4 rushing TDs in 2016; Second Team All-CUSA in 2015, All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2016; Charlotte all-time leader in TDs (43), rushing TDs (41), rushing yards (4,020) and rushing attempts (737)
- DL Larry Ogunjobi: 49ers all-time leader in tackles (217), tackles for loss (49.0), sacks (13) and QB hurries (33); only 49er to start all 46 games in school's history; first 49er to be named to all-conference first team with First Team All-CUSA nod in 2016, Second Team All-CUSA in 2015
- WR Austin Duke: 59 catches, 803 receiving yards, 4 receiving TDs in 2016; owns all 49ers single-season and career records in receptions, receiving yards and receiving TDs; finished career with 253 catches, 3,437 receiving yards, 24 receiving TDs; All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2016
- LB Nick Cook: Team-leading 108 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 2 sacks in 2016; All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2016
Key players to watch out for (grades listed are for 2017-18 school year)
- RB Robert Washington, So.: 489 rushing yards, 5 rushing TDs in 2016
- QB Hasaan Klugh, R-Jr.: Started last six games of 2016; led team with 1,356 passing yards and 10 TDs; 3 INTs, 426 rushing yards, team-high 8 rushing TDs
- LB Karrington King, R-Sr.: Leading tackler returning with 73 in 2016, 5 tackles for loss, 2 sacks
2017 projection
"The 49ers needed to win just two of their final three games to become bowl eligible last season, but they dropped all three in disappointing fashion. Now, without 19 players who helped compose the school's first recruiting class, Charlotte will look for some of its younger contributors from last year's squad to lead the team to its first-ever bowl game in 2017.
"Redshirt junior Hasaan Klugh returns as the 49ers' quarterback after taking over as the starter midway through last season and leading them to their first three C-USA wins. With sophomore tailback Robert Washington replacing Kalif Phillips, the school's all-time leading rusher, it will be interesting to see if the Charlotte coaching staff tinkers with the offense to fit Klugh's strengths as a runner behind a relatively inexperienced offensive line.
"On defense, the 49ers will miss stalwart defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi, but they'll return five of their seven top tacklers from last season. Charlotte had the worst passing defense in C-USA last season, but it returns three of four starters, all of which will likely benefit from last year's trials." – Patrick James, Charlotte beat writer for the Charlotte Observer.
WKU
2016 recap: "Success" is the word that most comes to mind when thinking of WKU's 2016 campaign, which turned out to be head coach Jeff Brohm's last season in Bowling Green. The Hilltoppers finished 11-3 overall and won their second Conference USA championship in a row with a 58-44 win over LA Tech in the title game. First-year head coach Mike Sanford steps in this season with his starting quarterback returning, but the Toppers will have to replace a lot of talent on both sides of the ball.
Head coach: Mike Sanford, first season with team, same overall
Offensive coordinator: Junior Adams
Defensive coordinator: Clayton White
Expected returning starters
Offense: 4
Defense: 7
Key starters lost
- WR Taywan Taylor: Led C-USA in receiving yards (1,730) and tied for lead in receiving TDs (17) in 2016; WKU all-time leader in receptions (253), receiving yards (4,234) and receiving TDs (41); First Team All-CUSA in 2016 and 2015, All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2014
- WR Nicholas Norris: Fifth in C-USA in receiving yards (1,318) and third in receiving TDs (14) in 2016; Second at WKU all-time in receptions (194), receiving yards (3,091) and receiving TDs (26); Second Team All-CUSA in 2016, All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2015
- RB Anthony Wales: Second in C-USA in rushing yards (1,621) and first in rushing TDs (27) in 2016; 27 rushing TDs was most in a single season in school history and tied for the most in C-USA history; Second Team All-CUSA in 2016 and 2015
- LB Keith Brown: Led C-USA in tackles (131) in 2016; 13 tackles for loss, 6 sacks and 2 INTs; First Team All-CUSA in 2016
- OL Forrest Lamp: Played and started in 51 games in his career; First Team All-CUSA in 2016 and 2015, All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2014, All-Sun Belt Honorable Mention in 2013
Key players to watch out for (grades listed are for 2017-18 school year)
- QB Mike White, R-Sr.: Led C-USA in passing yards (4,363) and QB efficiency (181.4) and tied for the lead in passing TDs (37); 7 INTs in 2016; Second Team All-CUSA in 2016
- LB TJ McCollum, R-Sr.: Top returning tackler with 85 in 2016, 4 tackles for loss, missed 3 games; All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2016
- DB Joe Brown, Sr.: 43 tackles, 4 tackles for loss, 2 sacks in 2016; Second Team All-CUSA in 2016
2017 projection
"Western Kentucky has enjoyed a continued level of success during the past three seasons that has previously not been seen in Bowling Green. A trio of bowl victories and back-to-back Conference USA titles have set a foundation for success for the Hilltoppers program. The strength of that foundation will be tested this fall as first-year head coach Mike Sanford Jr., the youngest head coach on the FBS level, takes over the reins, and he'll need to replace a handful of key figures on both sides of the ball.
"Despite the loss of significant players and a new coaching staff, the Hilltoppers will have some look of familiarity in 2017. Sanford's offense, which will have former Boise State passing game coordinator Junior Adams calling the plays, will again be fast-paced and creative. Clayton White will serve as WKU's defensive coordinator and will guide a group that will once again attack in an effort to force turnovers to create more scoring opportunities.
"Questions will dance around the program throughout spring practice and into fall camp, but answers should develop in time for the kickoff of another challenging schedule this fall, and until the Hilltoppers are supplanted from the crest of C-USA, they will continue to be among the favorites." – Michael McCammon, senior writer for WKUInsider.com.
Old Dominion
2016 recap: In 2016, ODU got back to the type of winning the Monarchs were used to before switching from the FCS to FBS in 2013. They won the most games (10) since going 11-2 in their final FCS season and put a punctuation mark on the year with a 24-20 win over Eastern Michigan in the Bahamas Bowl. The season didn't start well for the Monarchs, losing two of their first three games, but a 9-1 record over their final 10 contests made it a very successful season in Norfolk for head coach Bobby Wilder.
Head coach: Bobby Wilder, 67-30 in 8 seasons with team, same overall
Offensive coordinator: Brian Scott
Defensive coordinator: Rich Nagy
Expected returning starters
Offense: 8
Defense: 7
Key starters lost
- LB TJ Ricks: Team high 102 tackles, 6 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries in 2016; 102 tackles is third most in a single-season in ODU history; ODU career leader in forced fumbles (7); 323 tackles career tackles are 17 behind ODU all-time leader; only player in ODU history with two 100 tackle seasons; 123 tackles in 2015 is ODU single-season high; First Team All-CUSA in 2016, Second Team All-CUSA in 2015
- WR Zach Pascal: Team highs in receptions (65), receiving yards (946) and all-purpose yards (1,406); 9 receiving TDs in 2016; ODU all-time receptions leader (233); Second Team All-CUSA in 2016 and 2015
- QB David Washington: Threw for 2,836 yards, 31 TDs, 5 INTs; one of 4 FBS quarterbacks with 25 or more TD passes and 5 or less INTs in 2016; All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2016
Key players to watch out for (grades listed are for 2017-18 school year)
- RB Ray Lawry, Sr.: Team high 1,255 rushing yards, 11 rushing TDs in 2016; ODU career record 38 rushing TDs, 40 total TDs; All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2016, Second Team All-CUSA in 2015, C-USA Freshman of the Year in 2014
- WR Jonathan Duhart, Sr.: Second on team with 48 receptions and 735 receiving yards; 9 receiving TDs in 2016 tied team high; All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2016
- DE Oshane Ximines, Jr.: Team highs in sacks (7.5) and tackles for loss (11.5) in 2016; 7.5 sacks is ODU single-season record; Second Team All-CUSA in 2016
- DE Bunmi Rotimi, Sr.: Second on team in sacks (7) and tackles for loss (10) in 2016; currently tied for ODU career sacks record (13.5); All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2016
2017 projection
"ODU must replace graduated quarterback David Washington, but returns every running back, and four offensive linemen who started in the Bahamas Bowl, from the team that led Conference USA in rushing.
"ODU lost its best wide receiver, Zach Pascal, but every other wide receiver returns. The defense, which has steadily improved the last three seasons, returns most of the line and 20 of 22 backs, but four of the top five linebackers graduated.
"The biggest question mark for ODU is quarterback. Sophomore Blake LaRussa has little playing experience and freshman Drayton Arnold hasn't taken a snap from center. Junior college transfer Jordan Hoy (3,434 passing yards, 37 TDs, 6 INTs) from Fullerton College could be ODU's starter." – Harry Minium, Old Dominion beat writer for the Virginian-Pilot.
The Blue Raiders will begin the season Sept. 2 at home against in-state foe Vanderbilt before hitting the road for contests against Syracuse and Minnesota in Weeks 2 and 3. They will then wrap up the nonconference slate on Sept. 23 at home against Bowling Green before entering Conference USA play.
MT's C-USA schedule starts at FAU Sept. 30 before coming home the following week to face FIU. The Raiders then travel to UAB before again returning home to face Marshall and UTEP with a bye week in between.
Their last two road games will be at Charlotte and WKU on Nov. 11 and 18, respectively, then the regular season finishes with a senior day matchup at home against Old Dominion on Nov. 25.
Here's an early breakdown of every team on the schedule, with notes on each:
Vanderbilt
2016 recap: Things didn't start well for Vanderbilt a season ago, but it ended up being head coach Derek Mason's best season yet in Nashville. Through six games, the Commodores were just 2-4, with their two wins coming over Middle Tennessee and WKU. From there everything changed. The Dores ended with four wins in their last seven games, including one against rival Tennessee, on their way to a 6-7 record and 3-5 in the SEC. They may have lost to NC State 41-17 in the Independence Bowl, but Mason should be optimistic after his team won the most games in a season and had its best record in SEC play under his tutelage.
Head coach: Derek Mason, 23-34 in three seasons with team, same overall
Offensive coordinator: Andy Ludwig
Defensive coordinator: Derek Mason
Expected returning starters
Offense: 9
Defense: 8
Key starters lost
- LB Zach Cunningham: Redshirt junior declared for the NFL draft; All-American selection in 2015 and 2016, First Team All-SEC in 2015 and 2016; 295 total tackles, 177 unassisted stops, 39.5 tackles for loss, six quarterback sacks, seven forced fumbles and seven fumble recoveries in his VU career
- LT Will Holden: Redshirt senior ended career with 37-straight starts; Second Team All-SEC in 2016
Key players to watch out for (grades listed are for 2017-18 school year)
- RB Ralph Webb, R-Sr.: 1,283 rushing yards, 13 rushing TDs, 5.1-yard average in 2016; all-time VU leader with 3,342 rushing yards, 22 career rushing TDs; set a career high with 211 rushing yards against MT in 2016
- QB Kyle Shurmur, Jr.: 2,409 passing yards, 9 passing TDs, 10 INTs, 54.4 percent completion percentage in first full year as starter in 2016
- S LaDarius Wiley, Jr.: Second on the team with 76 total tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles; started 7 games in 2016; recovered a fumble for 55 yards against MT
2017 projection
"Vanderbilt will return all-time leading rusher Ralph Webb, power back Khari Blasingame, quarterback Kyle Shurmur and all of its major receiving targets. The offense must be more productive, but it was among the nation's leaders in fewest turnovers and red-zone efficiency.
"Defensively, the Commodores must replace All-American linebacker Zach Cunningham, but they should still tout one of the best units in the SEC. Linebacker Oren Burks will help lead a strong front-seven.
"Last season, Vanderbilt made its first bowl appearance since 2013, and it should be in contention for another bid." – Adam Sparks, Vanderbilt beat writer for the Tennessean.
Syracuse
2016 recap: Dino Babers' first season as head coach at Syracuse was filled with ups and downs. The Orange started a respectable 4-4 through eight games, but they lost their last four, including a 76-61 shootout with Pittsburgh in the season's final week, to finish 4-8 and 2-6 in ACC play. Numerous school season records were broken, some good (Amba Etta-Tawo had SU season highs in catches, receiving yards and receiving TDs) and some bad (463 total points allowed). Babers is hoping his second year at the helm is more consistent than his first.
Head coach: Dino Babers, 4-8 in one season with team, 41-24 in five years overall
Co-Offensive coordinators: Sean Lewis, Mike Lynch
Defensive coordinator: Brian Ward
Expected returning starters
Offense: 9
Defense: 11
Key starters lost
- WR Amba Etta-Tawo: Third Team All-American (Associated Press) and First Team All-ACC in 2016; set school single-season records with 1,482 receiving yards and 14 receiving TDs, including 5 against Pittsburgh; 94 receptions tied school record
Key players to watch out for (grades listed are for 2017-18 school year)
- WR Ervin Phillips, Sr.: 90 receptions (second in school history), 822 receiving yards, 6 receiving TDs in 2016; All-ACC Honorable Mention
- QB Eric Dungey, Jr.: Started 9 games in 2016 and missed the last 3 due to injury; 2,679 passing yards, 21 total (15 passing) TDs, 7 INTs
- LB Zaire Franklin, Sr.: Second on team with 101 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, 1 INT in 2016; All-ACC Third Team
- LB Parris Bennett, Sr.: Led team with 110 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 3 forced fumbles in 2016; All-ACC Honorable Mention
2017 projection
"After finishing 4-8 in Year one under Dino Babers, Syracuse returns with increased depth and bowl aspirations in 2017.
"Babers' hurry-up spread offense is expected to start fully clicking between Weeks 4 and 6. Junior quarterback Eric Dungey, if he can remain healthy, should be one of the top quarterbacks in the ACC. He returns senior slot receiver Erv Philips and senior wide receiver Steve Ishmael as his top targets while junior college tight end Ravian Pierce could make immediate contributions. The offensive line will be young and inexperienced for the second year in a row.
"On defense, the Orange feature two studs in middle linebacker Zaire Franklin and weak-side 'backer Parris Bennett. The return of senior safety Antwan Cordy should allow SU to use more man coverages out of its Tampa-2 scheme. Up front, redshirt junior defensive tackle Chris Slayton leads the way." – Stephen Bailey, Syracuse beat writer for the Syracuse Post-Standard.
Minnesota
2016 recap: The first season as head coach at Minnesota turned into Tracy Claeys' only season with the Golden Gophers when he was fired on Jan. 4. It wasn't the Gophers' play on the field that got Claeys tossed – they went a very respectable 9-4 overall and 5-4 in Big Ten play. It was a player boycott and sexual assault allegations before the Holiday Bowl that eventually led to his firing, and former Western Michigan head coach P.J. Fleck was hired two days after their bowl victory over Washington State.
Head coach: P.J. Fleck, first season with team, 30-22 in four seasons overall
Offensive coordinator: Kirk Ciarrocca
Defensive coordinator: Robb Smith
Expected returning starters
Offense: 8
Defense: 5
Key starters lost
- RT Jonah Pirsig: 30 starts in four seasons, Third Team All-Big Ten selection in 2016
- WR Drew Wolitarsky: Team leader in catches (66), receiving yards (860) and receiving TDs (5) in 2016
- S Damarius Travis: Team high 83 tackles, 2 INTs, 6 passes defended in 2016
Key players to watch out for (grades listed are for 2017-18 school year)
- RB Rodney Smith, R-Jr.: Rushed 240 times for 1,158 yards and 16 TDs in 2016; named Third Team All-Big Ten
- LB Jonathan Celestin, Sr.: Played in all 13 games, 10 starts; 80 tackles were second highest on the team, 7 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, 4 passes defended
- LB Blake Cashman, Jr.: Started just one game but led the team with 7.5 sacks, 45 tackles, 1 forced fumble; won a Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week award and Holiday Bowl Defensive MVP
2017 projection
"First-year head coach P.J. Fleck enters an interesting situation in Minneapolis. The team is coming off a tumultuous year in which several players were suspended and kicked off the team and campus due to horrific allegations.
"While it may be tough to see the Gophers having a lot of success in 2017, Fleck's winning reputation could propel them to a surprising season. Plus, he gets two good linebackers and the team's leading rusher back and he made a late splash on the recruiting trail.
"With three-year starting quarterback Mitch Leidner graduated, Fleck's biggest obstacle on the field could be finding a starting QB by the time the season comes." – Andy Gredder, Minnesota staff writer for the St. Paul Press.
Bowling Green
2016 recap: It was a tough start to Mike Jinks' tenure as head coach at Bowling Green. The Falcons won just one of their first nine games before going on a three-game winning streak to end the season 4-8 and 3-5 in the MAC, three losses of which came by seven points or fewer. Their second loss of the season came in Week 3 when Middle Tennessee traveled to Doyt Perry Stadium and left with a 41-21 victory thanks to 260 all-purpose yards (157 rushing) and four touchdowns (three rushing) from redshirt senior running back I'Tavius Mathers.
Head coach: Mike Jinks, 4-8 in one season with team, same overall
Co-Offensive coordinators: Kevin Kilmer, Andy Padron
Defensive coordinator: Perry Eliano
Expected returning starters
Offense: 6
Defense: 7
Key starters lost
- RB Fred Coppet: Team leader in rushes (204), rushing yards (1,030) and rushing TDs (8); Third Team All-MAC in 2016
- LB Trenton Greene: Led team with 111 tackles and 3 forced fumbles, 8.5 tackles for loss, 4 sacks in 2016; First Team All-MAC in 2016, Second Team All-MAC in 2015
Key players to watch out for (grades listed are for 2017-18 school year)
- QB James Morgan, R-So.: Made 7 starts, BG freshman record 16 TD passes, second-most passing yards as a BGSU freshman with 2,082, first freshman QB at BG to throw for 250-plus yards in four-straight games, 15 INTs in 2016
- WR Scott Miller, Jr.: Team highs in receptions (74), receiving yards (968) and receiving TDs (10); named First Team All-MAC in 2016
2017 projection
"On offense, the Falcons return sophomore QB James Morgan, who threw for 2,082 yards and 16 TDs in his first year as a starter, as well as All-MAC receiver Scottie Miller and a number of other receivers. Late last season BG became more ground-oriented on offense, and the return of All-MAC lineman Tim McAuliffe and power back Donovan Wilson should continue that trend.
"Defensively, the Falcons improved as the season progressed – because young players gained confidence with added experience. The return of injured cornerback Clint Stevens and All-MAC safety Jamari Bozeman should boost the secondary, while a return to health by Austin Valdez should aid the linebacking corps. And All-MAC punter Joseph Davidson also is a weapon.
"While Bowling Green saw a string of four straight bowl bids snapped last season, the Falcons showed improvement by finishing on a three-game winning streak. Three of the team's five MAC losses were by seven points or less, a gap BG must close to return to the MAC Championship game for the fourth time in five seasons." – John Wagner, BGSU beat writer for the Toledo Blade.
FAU
2016 recap: It isn't surprising that FAU fired head coach Charlie Partridge one day after Middle Tennessee put up 77 points and 757 total yards in a 77-56 win in the regular season finale. The Owls won just three games, two of which came in Conference USA play, in 2016, bringing his three-season record in Boca Raton to 9-27. With new head coach Lane Kiffin and a young roster, FAU expects to be better in 2017.
Head coach: Lane Kiffin, first season with team, 35-21 in five seasons overall
Offensive coordinator: Kendal Briles
Defensive coordinator: Chris Kiffin
Expected returning starters
Offense: 9
Defense: 9
Key starters lost
DE Trey Hendrickson: Second in C-USA with 9.5 sacks and 15 tackles for loss, 50 total tackles; C-USA Defensive Player of the Year in 2016; All-C-USA First Team selection in 2016 and 2015
Key players to watch out for (grades listed are for 2017-18 school year)
RB Greg Howell, Sr.: Team highs in rushing attempts (167) and rushing TDs (13), 828 rushing yards
RB Devin Singletary, So.: Team high 1,021 rushing yards, 12 rushing TDs, second on team with 26 catches; All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2016; rushed for 235 yards against MT in 2016
LB Azeez Al-Shaair, Jr.: Team high 113 total tackles, 12 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, second in C-USA with 9.4 tackles per game in 2016
2017 projection
"The 2017 season will be a transitional one for FAU – and the Owls will be making the transition in front of a national audience. FAU fired coach Charlie Partridge following the 2016 season, then made national news by hiring Lane Kiffin as the program's fifth coach. Kiffin, in turn, hired former Baylor offensive coordinator Kendal Briles to rev up the Owls' offense.
"The first task for Kiffin and Briles will be identifying a quarterback. Jason Driskel and Daniel Parr started games for the Owls last season and both return for 2017. They'll be challenged by transfer De'Andre Johnson, who began his career at Florida St. The Owls return running backs Buddy Howell and Devin Singletary – a duo that combined for 25 touchdowns last season.
"On defense, the Owls will be trying to replace Conference USA Player of the Year Trey Hendrickson. Even with Hendrickson, though, FAU's defense proved porous much of the season. Chris Kiffin, brother of Lane and son of famed NFL defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin, is tasked with coordinating a defense that finished near the bottom of the FBS in total defense and scoring defense." – Chuck King, managing editor and FAU beat writer for OwlAccess.com.
FIU
2016 recap: It was a roller coaster-type season for FIU. The Panthers started an abysmal 0-4 and fired head coach Ron Turner before rattling off three-straight wins over the middle of the season, but a three-game losing streak ended their bowl hopes before the regular season was completed. Butch Davis was then officially hired on Nov. 15 to lead the team. Middle Tennessee won the 2016 matchup 42-35 thanks to a DJ Sanders 48-yard interception return for a touchdown with 1:30 remaining in the game.
Head coach: Butch Davis, first season with team, 79-43 in 10 seasons overall
Offensive coordinator: Rich Skrosky
Defensive coordinator: Brent Guy
Expected returning starters
Offense: 7
Defense: 6
Key starters lost
- OT Dieugot Joseph: Started 33 games in his career, All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2016
- C Michael Montero: Started 25 games in his career, All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2016
Key players to watch out for (grades listed are for 2017-18 school year)
- LB Treyvon Williams, R-Sr.: Led team with 109 total tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 3 sacks; All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2016
- LB Anthony Wint, Sr.: Second on team with 108 total tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles; Second Team All-CUSA in 2016
- RB Alex Gardner, Sr.: Led team in rushes (181), rushing yards (930), rushing TDs (6) and all-purpose yards (1,546); school's all-time leading rusher; All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2016
2017 projection
"Butch [Davis] and FIU Athletic Director Pete Garcia go way back to Butch's days in the NFL. It was kind of natural to bring in Butch. I think he's in a good spot – the bar is so low, at like six wins, that it won't be that difficult for him to achieve. They've only been to two bowl games in the history of the program, so if he gets to a bowl game he will reach expectations.
"They return a significant amount of talent for the league and have a proven quarterback. He might not win the job, but Davis has the option of going to a fourth-year quarterback who has some experience. There's also a one-two punch at running back coming back and most of the receivers return.
"This team is kind of set up to do something in the short-term with Butch. I wouldn't be surprised if they are in a bowl game this coming season. That could give Davis some extra credibility right off the bat. Then in the long-term, you have to like his chances because of the recruiting base he has down here and those low expectations." – Walter Villa, writer for the Miami Herald.
UAB
2016 recap: Blazer football is officially back. After deciding to terminate its football program in December 2014, UAB announced just a month later it would begin again in the FBS and Conference USA West division starting in 2017. The Blazers may not have a lot to build off of just yet, but head coach Bill Clark and his squad are itching to get back onto the field against Division I competition.
Head coach: Bill Clark, 6-6 in one season with team (2014), 17-10 in two seasons overall
Offensive coordinator: Les Koenning
Defensive coordinator: David Reeves
Key players to watch out for (grades listed are for 2017-18 school year)
QB AJ Erdely, R-Jr.: Started at Middle Tennessee but transferred after redshirt freshman season to Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College for a season, then to UAB; named starter in spring 2016
2017 projection
"It's still to be determined what UAB will look like. There are a lot of 22-23-year-olds on the roster as UAB stacked up on junior college transfers over the past three signing classes. So, the return won't be filled with a bunch of intimidated freshmen.
"Some former UAB players have returned, including linebacker Shaq Jones and receiver Collin Lisa. I wouldn't count the Blazers out from competing for bowl eligibility after seeing what Bill Clark and his staff did in 2014 coming off a 2-10 season with previous head coach Garrick McGee." – Drew Champlin, UAB beat writer for Al.com.
Marshall
2016 recap: The 2016 season was by far the worst for Marshall under head coach Doc Holliday. The Thundering Herd compiled just a 3-9 record, 2-6 in Conference USA play, highlighted by a season finale throttling at the hands of WKU 60-6. One of the Herd's wins did come against Middle Tennessee, 42-17 on Nov. 12. That was the first game for the Blue Raiders after redshirt sophomore quarterback Brent Stockstill went down with a broken collarbone.
Head coach: Doc Holliday, 53-37 in 7 seasons with team, same overall
Offensive coordinator: Bill Legg
Defensive coordinator: Chuck Heater
Expected returning starters
Offense: 7
Defense: 8
Key starters lost
- OT Clint Van Horn: Started 35 games in his career
- DE Gary Thompson: Led team with 5 sacks in 2016; finished career with 48 games played, 19 sacks, 29 tackles for loss
Key players to watch out for (grades listed are for 2017-18 school year)
- QB Chase Litton, Jr.: Completed 62.3 percent of his passes, 2,612 passing yards, 24 TDs, 9 INTs; threw for 246 yards and 4 TDs in 42-17 win over MT in 2016
- RB Keion Davis, R-Sr.: Led team with 469 rushing yards and 1,128 all-purpose yards in 9 games in 2016
- LB Frankie Hernandez, R. Jr.: 46 total tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks in just 8 games in 2016; missed four games due to knee injury
2017 projection
"After collapsing from 10-3 to 3-9, the big question with this Marshall team is this: Who will play on this team?
"Props such as LB Jaquan Yulee will have to make an immediate impact, as will several JUCO imports and transfers such as WR Tyre Brady. Brady must stand out at the wide-open WR position.
"Chase Litton is no longer a shoo-in as starting QB, as he was at this point last year." – Doug Smock, Marshall beat writer for the Charleston Gazette-Mail.
UTEP
2016 recap: Even with Conference USA's leading rusher, Aaron Jacobs, UTEP failed to get much momentum all season on either side of the ball. The Miners finished 4-8 and 2-6 in C-USA play, but they did get the most exciting win in the conference when they took down UTSA 52-49 in five overtimes. They also finished the season with a big 52-24 victory over North Texas on senior day. With Jacobs enrolling early for the NFL, UTEP will have to find another weapon to lead its offense.
Head coach: Sean Kugler, 18-31 in 4 seasons with team, same overall
Offensive coordinator: Brent Pease
Defensive coordinator: Tom Mason
Expected returning starters
Offense: 6
Defense: 7
Key starters lost
- RB Aaron Jones: Enrolled early for NFL; led C-USA with 1,773 rushing yards and 147.8 yards per game average in 2016; 17 rushing TDs, 233 receiving yards, 3 receiving TDs in 2016; All-CUSA First Team in 2016, All-CUSA Second Team in 2014, All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2015; UTEP all-time leading rusher (4,114 yards) and 7th all-time in C-USA
- LT Jerome Daniels: Made 35 starts in his career
- LB Nick Usher: Team high 5.5 sacks, 77 total tackles in 2016
Key players to watch out for (grades listed are for 2017-18 school year)
- QB Ryan Metz, Jr.: 1,375 passing yards, 14 passing TDs, 4 INTs; started 7 games in 2016
- LB Alvin Jones, Sr.: Led team with 93 total tackles, 6 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks; started 8 games in 2016; Second Team All-CUSA in 2016
- LG Will Hernandez, Sr.: Started all 37 games in his career; First Team All-CUSA in 2016
2017 projection
"A team that prides itself on power running and loaded with returnees on the offense line, receiver and quarterback will have to replace the school's all-time leading rusher Aaron Jones, who left early for the NFL draft after a 1,773-yard season.
"A defense that traditionally has struggled is also full of returners in every unit as it looks to improve in the second year of its 3-4 system." – Bret Bloomquist, UTEP beat writer for the El Paso Times.
Charlotte
2016 recap: The second season in FBS was an overall success for the Charlotte 49ers. They doubled their overall wins from two in 2015 to a 4-8 record in 2016 and won their first-ever game in Conference USA play, finishing 3-5 in the conference. Their 19 seniors who played their last home game against Middle Tennessee on Nov. 19 were the first recruiting class for the school, and the biggest name from the group, Larry Ogunjobi, may be the first 49er to be drafted in the NFL. Charlotte almost took down the Blue Raiders during its senior day, but a last-minute, 61-yard Ty Lee rushing score gave MT a 38-31 win.
Head coach: Brad Lambert, 16-30 in 4 seasons with team, same overall
Offensive coordinator: Jeff Mullen
Defensive coordinator: Matt Wallerstedt
Expected returning starters
Offense: 6
Defense: 6
Key starters lost
- RB Kalif Phillips: 1,149 all-purpose yards (907 rushing), 4 rushing TDs in 2016; Second Team All-CUSA in 2015, All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2016; Charlotte all-time leader in TDs (43), rushing TDs (41), rushing yards (4,020) and rushing attempts (737)
- DL Larry Ogunjobi: 49ers all-time leader in tackles (217), tackles for loss (49.0), sacks (13) and QB hurries (33); only 49er to start all 46 games in school's history; first 49er to be named to all-conference first team with First Team All-CUSA nod in 2016, Second Team All-CUSA in 2015
- WR Austin Duke: 59 catches, 803 receiving yards, 4 receiving TDs in 2016; owns all 49ers single-season and career records in receptions, receiving yards and receiving TDs; finished career with 253 catches, 3,437 receiving yards, 24 receiving TDs; All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2016
- LB Nick Cook: Team-leading 108 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 2 sacks in 2016; All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2016
Key players to watch out for (grades listed are for 2017-18 school year)
- RB Robert Washington, So.: 489 rushing yards, 5 rushing TDs in 2016
- QB Hasaan Klugh, R-Jr.: Started last six games of 2016; led team with 1,356 passing yards and 10 TDs; 3 INTs, 426 rushing yards, team-high 8 rushing TDs
- LB Karrington King, R-Sr.: Leading tackler returning with 73 in 2016, 5 tackles for loss, 2 sacks
2017 projection
"The 49ers needed to win just two of their final three games to become bowl eligible last season, but they dropped all three in disappointing fashion. Now, without 19 players who helped compose the school's first recruiting class, Charlotte will look for some of its younger contributors from last year's squad to lead the team to its first-ever bowl game in 2017.
"Redshirt junior Hasaan Klugh returns as the 49ers' quarterback after taking over as the starter midway through last season and leading them to their first three C-USA wins. With sophomore tailback Robert Washington replacing Kalif Phillips, the school's all-time leading rusher, it will be interesting to see if the Charlotte coaching staff tinkers with the offense to fit Klugh's strengths as a runner behind a relatively inexperienced offensive line.
"On defense, the 49ers will miss stalwart defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi, but they'll return five of their seven top tacklers from last season. Charlotte had the worst passing defense in C-USA last season, but it returns three of four starters, all of which will likely benefit from last year's trials." – Patrick James, Charlotte beat writer for the Charlotte Observer.
WKU
2016 recap: "Success" is the word that most comes to mind when thinking of WKU's 2016 campaign, which turned out to be head coach Jeff Brohm's last season in Bowling Green. The Hilltoppers finished 11-3 overall and won their second Conference USA championship in a row with a 58-44 win over LA Tech in the title game. First-year head coach Mike Sanford steps in this season with his starting quarterback returning, but the Toppers will have to replace a lot of talent on both sides of the ball.
Head coach: Mike Sanford, first season with team, same overall
Offensive coordinator: Junior Adams
Defensive coordinator: Clayton White
Expected returning starters
Offense: 4
Defense: 7
Key starters lost
- WR Taywan Taylor: Led C-USA in receiving yards (1,730) and tied for lead in receiving TDs (17) in 2016; WKU all-time leader in receptions (253), receiving yards (4,234) and receiving TDs (41); First Team All-CUSA in 2016 and 2015, All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2014
- WR Nicholas Norris: Fifth in C-USA in receiving yards (1,318) and third in receiving TDs (14) in 2016; Second at WKU all-time in receptions (194), receiving yards (3,091) and receiving TDs (26); Second Team All-CUSA in 2016, All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2015
- RB Anthony Wales: Second in C-USA in rushing yards (1,621) and first in rushing TDs (27) in 2016; 27 rushing TDs was most in a single season in school history and tied for the most in C-USA history; Second Team All-CUSA in 2016 and 2015
- LB Keith Brown: Led C-USA in tackles (131) in 2016; 13 tackles for loss, 6 sacks and 2 INTs; First Team All-CUSA in 2016
- OL Forrest Lamp: Played and started in 51 games in his career; First Team All-CUSA in 2016 and 2015, All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2014, All-Sun Belt Honorable Mention in 2013
Key players to watch out for (grades listed are for 2017-18 school year)
- QB Mike White, R-Sr.: Led C-USA in passing yards (4,363) and QB efficiency (181.4) and tied for the lead in passing TDs (37); 7 INTs in 2016; Second Team All-CUSA in 2016
- LB TJ McCollum, R-Sr.: Top returning tackler with 85 in 2016, 4 tackles for loss, missed 3 games; All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2016
- DB Joe Brown, Sr.: 43 tackles, 4 tackles for loss, 2 sacks in 2016; Second Team All-CUSA in 2016
2017 projection
"Western Kentucky has enjoyed a continued level of success during the past three seasons that has previously not been seen in Bowling Green. A trio of bowl victories and back-to-back Conference USA titles have set a foundation for success for the Hilltoppers program. The strength of that foundation will be tested this fall as first-year head coach Mike Sanford Jr., the youngest head coach on the FBS level, takes over the reins, and he'll need to replace a handful of key figures on both sides of the ball.
"Despite the loss of significant players and a new coaching staff, the Hilltoppers will have some look of familiarity in 2017. Sanford's offense, which will have former Boise State passing game coordinator Junior Adams calling the plays, will again be fast-paced and creative. Clayton White will serve as WKU's defensive coordinator and will guide a group that will once again attack in an effort to force turnovers to create more scoring opportunities.
"Questions will dance around the program throughout spring practice and into fall camp, but answers should develop in time for the kickoff of another challenging schedule this fall, and until the Hilltoppers are supplanted from the crest of C-USA, they will continue to be among the favorites." – Michael McCammon, senior writer for WKUInsider.com.
Old Dominion
2016 recap: In 2016, ODU got back to the type of winning the Monarchs were used to before switching from the FCS to FBS in 2013. They won the most games (10) since going 11-2 in their final FCS season and put a punctuation mark on the year with a 24-20 win over Eastern Michigan in the Bahamas Bowl. The season didn't start well for the Monarchs, losing two of their first three games, but a 9-1 record over their final 10 contests made it a very successful season in Norfolk for head coach Bobby Wilder.
Head coach: Bobby Wilder, 67-30 in 8 seasons with team, same overall
Offensive coordinator: Brian Scott
Defensive coordinator: Rich Nagy
Expected returning starters
Offense: 8
Defense: 7
Key starters lost
- LB TJ Ricks: Team high 102 tackles, 6 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries in 2016; 102 tackles is third most in a single-season in ODU history; ODU career leader in forced fumbles (7); 323 tackles career tackles are 17 behind ODU all-time leader; only player in ODU history with two 100 tackle seasons; 123 tackles in 2015 is ODU single-season high; First Team All-CUSA in 2016, Second Team All-CUSA in 2015
- WR Zach Pascal: Team highs in receptions (65), receiving yards (946) and all-purpose yards (1,406); 9 receiving TDs in 2016; ODU all-time receptions leader (233); Second Team All-CUSA in 2016 and 2015
- QB David Washington: Threw for 2,836 yards, 31 TDs, 5 INTs; one of 4 FBS quarterbacks with 25 or more TD passes and 5 or less INTs in 2016; All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2016
Key players to watch out for (grades listed are for 2017-18 school year)
- RB Ray Lawry, Sr.: Team high 1,255 rushing yards, 11 rushing TDs in 2016; ODU career record 38 rushing TDs, 40 total TDs; All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2016, Second Team All-CUSA in 2015, C-USA Freshman of the Year in 2014
- WR Jonathan Duhart, Sr.: Second on team with 48 receptions and 735 receiving yards; 9 receiving TDs in 2016 tied team high; All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2016
- DE Oshane Ximines, Jr.: Team highs in sacks (7.5) and tackles for loss (11.5) in 2016; 7.5 sacks is ODU single-season record; Second Team All-CUSA in 2016
- DE Bunmi Rotimi, Sr.: Second on team in sacks (7) and tackles for loss (10) in 2016; currently tied for ODU career sacks record (13.5); All-CUSA Honorable Mention in 2016
2017 projection
"ODU must replace graduated quarterback David Washington, but returns every running back, and four offensive linemen who started in the Bahamas Bowl, from the team that led Conference USA in rushing.
"ODU lost its best wide receiver, Zach Pascal, but every other wide receiver returns. The defense, which has steadily improved the last three seasons, returns most of the line and 20 of 22 backs, but four of the top five linebackers graduated.
"The biggest question mark for ODU is quarterback. Sophomore Blake LaRussa has little playing experience and freshman Drayton Arnold hasn't taken a snap from center. Junior college transfer Jordan Hoy (3,434 passing yards, 37 TDs, 6 INTs) from Fullerton College could be ODU's starter." – Harry Minium, Old Dominion beat writer for the Virginian-Pilot.
Players Mentioned
A look back: 1965 and 1985 Undefeated Blue Raider Football Teams
Wednesday, September 17
MTSU Football at Nevada cinematic recap – 9/13/25
Tuesday, September 16
Derek Mason LIVE: Presented by The Boulevard Bar & Grille Week 4 (Video)
Monday, September 15
MTSU Football Weekly Press Conference 9/15/25
Monday, September 15
