by Central Michigan Chippewas
Coach: Jim McElwain, 5 Years, 11 Overall
Last year’s record: 5-7
Overview
Last season the Chippewas suffered from having two QBs that could play but suffered from injury, Bert Emanuel Jr is healthy and ready to implement the dual threat offense that is expected from him. Emanuel Jr will have Sr help in the backfield with Marion Luke’s as the lead back for the Chips. Chris Parker and Tyson Davis will be the leaders in the pass game as they look forward to having Emanuel Jr as the lone Quarterback this season. The offensive line has a mix of returners and new blood to help lead the way for the Chips dynamic rushing attack. Brayden Swartout is a second team all MAC member from a year ago, he is expected to be a top Tackle in the MAC in his Sr campaign. The Chips defense struggled last season as they were not able to stop their opponents in the pass or run game. The defense will be looking to find themselves and identity this season.
Dom’s Overlook
Two seasons ago I picked the Chips to be a top team in the MAC West and compete for the title. That season was the start of their issues on defense and lack of production on offense started as well. With Emanuel Jr healthy I expect this offense to have a dynamic attack on the ground with Luke’s who I predict will have just around 1,000 yards if he can stay healthy this season. The pass game will be solid this year with an improved Emanuel and a WR group that has molded around his style. The Chips will put a lot of points on the board, the question is will they be able to keep points off it on defense. The Chips defense hasn’t been up to snuff the past two seasons and it has reflected on their record. The Chips need to find a big time playmaker on the defensive end this season if they want a chance to go to a bowl game this season.
Predictions
I don’t know how to feel about Central Michigan this season, on one hand I like them to win six or seven games while on the other I can see them falling short and only obtaining four to five wins. Emanuel Jr and Luke’s being healthy is a huge part of this team’s success. I have full confidence in the offense but fear the defense will struggle allowing high scores and close games to slip away in the fourth. I have Central Michigan winning five games this season with a high of five and a low of three. This can be a rough season due to a tough back end of the schedule that most teams would struggle with. The back field tandem will light the world on fire but the rest of the team could be hit or miss, only time will tell for the Chips.
