by Eastern Michigan
MAC West
Coach: Chris Creignton
Last year’s record: 9-4
The overcast
Eastern Michigan was a surprise team last year in all the right ways, with medium expectations the Eagles won nine games and a bowl game. An upset to Arizona State early in the season was a steal that allowed them to have a record better than expected. This year could be more of the same for Creighton and the Eagles as they return four starters on offense and seven on defense. Austin Smith comes in as a sophomore replacing Powell. Smith should have the pass game open due to Samson Evans drawing the Linebackers forward. Evans is the featured back for the second year in a row as the Eagles will once again feature a run heavy offense. Smith lost three WRs from last season but retains their top option in Tanner Knue and gained solid options from Juco. The defense loses their best defensive lineman as they will take a step back, the rest of the defense got better this offseason and is primed to anchor this team once again.
Dom’s Overlook
Eastern Michigan was a team last season that I overlooked, I am not going to repeat that mistake. Eastern Michigan is prepped to have another great year as they look to push the boundaries on what this program can achieve. The Eagles have always been viewed as a bottom tier MAC team, This group isn’t in the category. With Evans back and a passing attack that will improve through the season, I suspect this offense will be more dynamic compared to last season. The defensive line going into the season is thin compared to years past. Look for the secondary to be the strong suite this year, coverage sacks will help this team get through a tough MAC schedule.
Prediction
Eastern Michigan plays Howard, Umass, and Jacksonville State in their non-conference. I have those games as wins as they will lose to Minnesota on the road. The Conference schedule is tough, but the Eagles are tougher. This team will find a way to muster out eight regular season wins and fight for the West crown once again. I don’t know if they will win the West, I do think they will go toe to toe with Toledo for the Crown. I predict that Eastern Michigan will finish second in the West and go bowling once again. This team is good, don’t sleep on this team, they will be giving every team they play troubles like last season.
