by 1 NIU #23 (2-0) –
Hard to move NIU after a bye week while their ranking increases up two spots on the AP pole. Until the Huskies lose they will remain at the top spot
2 Toledo (3-0) –
I called the upset over Mississippi State last week, the Rockets are as strong as they ever been. Don’t be surprised if they get voted in the top 25 this week if they can beat Western Kentucky.
3 Bowling Green (1-1) –
I am not going to punish a team for being on a bye after almost upsetting a top team in the country. They have a huge challenge against Texas A&M on the road, I’m curious how the Falcons will play on the road against another top 25 opponent.
4 Buffalo (2-1) +1
The Bulls defense looks tough this year, they only gave up three points to UMass, something Toledo failed to do. If their defense truly as good as it looks they will be a hard team to beat in conference play.
5 Ohio (2-2) -1
I know they won but a win over a FCS opponent only gets you so far. I viewed Buffalo’s win over a future MAC opponent as a better win than Ohio’s win over Morgan State.
6 Miami (0-2 )-3
Not enough offense has been on display for the RedHawks. Hopefully they can put together a few more consistent drives against Notre Dame than they did against Cincinnati.
7 Eastern Michigan (2-1) +1
A gritty overtime win against Jacksonville State is something you want to see for the Eagles. A good start as they inch closer to conference play.
8 Western Michigan (1-2) -1
A good win against a bad team, still looking for the Broncos to show me a little bit more before I move them up but it was a good first win. They move down one spot due to a better opponent and record by Eastern.
9 Akron (1-2) +2
Would like to see more of a blowout against a bad FCS team but a win is a win. Offense showed some bright spots, They will lose to South Carolina next week but conference play could be looking good for the Zips compared to years past.
10 Central Michigan (1-2) -1
A tough two games for the Chips, I expect better days to come in Mount Pleasant.
11 Ball State (1-1) -1
Miami FL is just that much better than Ball State, can’t read to much into a game like that.
12 Kent State (0-3) –
It’s going to get worse before it gets any better. You know it is bad when the opposing team asks if you want a running clock.
