Season 135 Labor Day Special
It's a very special Labor Day issue as the season grinds down to the playoffs.
First, so many great things are happening in Rockne this season and it all starts with the increased competition! We reached 51 Coaches this season and the difference was noticeable in recruiting. There is more competition in head to head meetings, more chatter on the coaches boards and some of the rebuild projects are entering their final stages to compete.
We also added Omcs1981's Game of the Night, which features the best game to watch each week along with his prediction. It's been a huge success and I know I look forward to reading each one on a nightly basis.
I am looking for another writer as well who can possibly add a different flavor to what we already have. Interested? Send me a sitemail! Short articles are recommended as they are easier to write without feeling burnt out.
First of all, recruiting was a lot of fun. I really like the increased competition and some of the teams coming up are making an impact. For example - W. New Mexico stood their ground when I tried to snag the #1 RB in his backyard, West Chester came out swinging and Long Island jumped out aggressively under the new leadership of bigpoppa85. Humboldt was all over the map and not afraid to jump in while the water was warm, NMU returned to the top and Winona State finally held their ground under azcowboy1.
This was just a small summary of what actually transpired, but some moves were made, battles won and the results are in.
Texas A&M-Commerce pulls in the top class for the 5th season in a row. I'm not trying to toot my own horn, I'm just lucky it turned out that way. Rather than focus on what can you do for me later, we went for players who can contribute now. TAMC landed the #1 WR Shawn Jacobs in a well fought bought with West Chester. They also brought in a pair of DB's (#3,#4) and a stud #2 LB David Graham. All of the recruits were top ten. The recruit distribution does not look favorable next season for this team, so this could be their last year on top.
Cheyney moved up one spot over 3rd last season and has landed a top 5 class for the past 4 seasons. Most of the class is solid Top 20 talent but some standouts is the #1 DB Ronald Monroe and #3 OL Michael Jackson. I'm assuming that there is very good potential for all of the guys which means, this group is going to be studly as seniors.
Saint Joseph's has a nice jump to #3 after finishing 6th last season. Tutank focused heaving on upgrading the O and D line, pulling in the #2 and #5 OL's.
The most noticeable jumps was Northern Michigan who moved from #15 to #4 and caught my attention. There was a little bit of a drop last season in what is normally the creme of the crop team to model after. It was a mix of ready to contribute guys inside the Top Ten and development players. Really balanced class who could also jump up to being the best class after they are all developed.
Valdosta State who finished #5, moving 8 spots from #13 last season. Nothing uncommon as VSU lands top ten or close every season and this time Champ83 brought in a nice #3 RB in Henry Thompson who is amazing strength and will be a difficult challenge his senior year.
TOP 5 CLASS RECAP
#1 Texas A&M-Commerce (-) Prev: 1
Rating: 94.06 Class Size: 7 Blue Chips: 4 (5 Star) and 2 (4 Star) Impact Player: WR Shawn Jacobs, 62.88 (57Ath, 78Spd, 52HND, 82ELU)
#2 Cheyney (+1) Prev: 3
Rating: 85.83 Class Size: 14 Blue Chips: 2 (5 Star) and 6 (4 Star) Impact Player: CB Ronald Monroe (63Ath, 71Spd, 43TKL,57GI)
#3 Saint Joseph's (+3) Prev: 6
Rating: 85.07
Class Size: 14 Blue Chips: 1 (5 Star) and 5 (4 Star) Impact Player: DL Corey Walker, 62.93 (82STR, 74TKL, 52GI)
#4 Northern Michigan (+9) Prev: 15
Rating: 84.16 Class Size: 11 Blue Chips: 0 (5 Star) and 5 (4 Star) Impact Player: TE Timothy Lawrence (53Spd, 68Str, 69Hnd, 68GI, 57ELU)
#5 Valdosta State (+8) Prev: 13
Rating: 84.10
Class Size: 11 Blue Chips: 2 (5 Star) and 2 (4 Star) Impact Player: RB Henry Thompson (66Spd, 70Str, 69Hnd, 66Elu)
As the season winds down, let's take a look at the teams that are moving up. 10 weeks have past, these are the top 10 teams that either have the capability of winning any week or are playing above their teams ability.
In the beginning, GUESS had rated the Top Ten as -
#1 Texas A&M-Commerce
#2 Cheyney
#3 Northern Michigan
#4 Virginia State
#5 Presbyterian
#6 West Chester
#7 Valdosta St
#8 Shepherd
#9 Saginaw Valley St.
#10 Saint Joseph's
As the season currently stands, I would rate the teams as -
#1 Northern Michigan (spthibodeau) 10-0
Great team year in and year out, this season is no different. While they are just barely ranked below TAMC in terms of starting talent, they have won convincingly over top opponents such as Fort Lewis, Winona St, Findlay and Saginaw Valley St. It's almost a lock that we will see them versus Ferris St. in the Conference Championship.
Battle in the Trenches
Offensive Line 73.17 Core, 82 Blocking, 79 Strength
Defensive Line 70.06 Core, 75 Tackling, 82 Strength
Player to Watch
RB Bruce Cole 78.88
#2 Texas A&M-Commerce (akua29) 10-0
If there is a year to win it all, this would be one TAMC's best opportunity. Ranking #1 in talent and starters and carrying 20 seniors with a QB FIQ of 84, so it's go time. However, the playoffs become a different story and anyone can win, talent is not always enough. TAMC does have a great running back and a top wide receiver for weapons.
Battle in the Trenches
Offensive Line 75.83 Core, 84 Blocking, 79 Strength
Defensive Line 71.65 Core, 77 Tackling, 86 Strength
Player to Watch
RB Matthew Hall 76.15
#3 Cheyney (waregl72) 10-0
Defending National Champion is in position to do it again. His team is just under the top 2 and if you need to know anything about Waregl72, he can game plan when it matters. Cheyney recruited a strong class of 17 this season but they also have 12 Seniors and 12 Juniors. Their QB FIQ is 82 and the Nickel package is one of the highest in the league at 60 on average using all players on defense.
Battle in the Trenches
Offensive Line 74.32 Core, 81 Blocking, 79 Strength
Defensive Line 70.30 Core, 80 Tackling, 81 Strength
Player to Watch
Cheyney has probably the best defensive lines in D2.
#4 Presbyterian (rposborne) 10-0
Every season since I've been covering Rockne, I pull for Presbyterian and I somehow put a curse on them. BUT, this is the season they get past the 2nd round. They have an excellent shot at a great playoff seed and have a great match-up versus a Tusculum team that did not perform as well versus common opponents. Rposborne delivered N. Alabama's only loss 23-20 and look more balanced on offense this season.
Battle in the Trenches
Offensive Line 71.88 Core, 77 Blocking, 79 Strength
Defensive Line 66.72 Core, 82 Tackling, 72 Strength
Player to Watch
RB Duo with Harold Martinez and Robert McCabe who both boast 72+ core ratings and can deliver a potent 1-2 punch.
#5 West Chester (2000champou) 10-0
What a great team that's coming up the ranks fast. Double quarterfinal appearances, the expectation this season is Semi-Finals. The problem - They are currently ranked #29 WIS and it's going to create some tough matches early. I'm not saying they can't handle it, but it's doubtful that they land an easier match. Well balanced with 13 Seniors and 13 Juniors
Battle in the Trenches
Offensive Line 69.93 Core, 70 Blocking, 79 Strength
Defensive Line 69.23 Core, 76 Tackling, 82 Strength
Player to Watch
QB Ralph Erickson 60.76 who has 91 formation IQ. Defense is solid with 8 seniors, 62 FIQ (avg) and anchored by DL Robert Johnson 72.01
#6 North Alabama (Fazbear05) 9-1
Since joining Rockne, I have caught on that Fazbear05 is a good at getting the most out of his talent. He always scheduled a tough non-conference and I think that may of held his old team back a little. Fast forward to his move to N. Alabama last season and things have been looking up. He didn't over schedule his non-conf and the ones he did schedule were winnable games. They did take a tough loss to Presbyterian 23-20, but they beat a very good W. New Mexico team 37-33 and Tusculum 65-24. The win over Valdosta St though was HUGE. 33-27 victory and a straight line to win the CC which will be the first time in since season 116 that a team other than VSU won it. The strength of this team is still to come as they have 17 sophomore's recruited by Fazbear05.
Battle in the Trenches
Offensive Line 70.34 Core, 73 Blocking, 76 Strength
Defensive Line 65.89 Core, 74 Tackling, 72 Strength
Player to Watch
OL Chris Brewster is a whopping 78.51 Core
#7 Ferris State (coachoatie) 9-1
The last two seasons FSU has featured a more top heavy roster, this season they only have 12 seniors and 7 juniors. As long as they have weapons though, coachoatie can game plan to get most out of it. RB Fuller is a 74.10 and WR Rios is a 73.32. There is a pretty significant drop off after those two players, so the key will be not to allow the younger players as much time in big games. Right now, they are on track to face NMU in the CC.
Battle in the Trenches
Offensive Line 69.43 Core, 73 Blocking, 74 Strength
Defensive Line 69.19 Core, 82 Tackling, 75 Strength
Player to Watch
RB Thomas Fuller 74.10 and WR John Rios 73.32
#8 Saginaw Valley State (ojpick) 9-1
SVSU was one of my favorite sleeper teams in the pre-season when I looked at the roster and thought about who could catch people off guard and win it all. At 9-1, they could still do it, but it's their game plan that has me a bit baffled. I'm a big fan of trying to run the ball 100% of the time and I believe you can win some big games doing it. What I'm taken back by is they have arguably the best WR in D2 with Jose White and they are not using him. They did lose to NMU 42-0 but against other teams that have less talent on the defensive side, they should roll over. I am guessing come playoff team the offense will be more mixed, but we will have to wait and see.
Battle in the Trenches
Offensive Line 70.72 Core, 75 Blocking, 76 Strength
Defensive Line 68.02 Core, 75 Tackling, 77 Strength
Player to Watch
WR Jose White 72.60, 84 Speed, 83 Hands, 84 Elusivness 1 Reception for 16 Yards. (scratches head)
#9 Valdosta State (Champ83)
Champ83 clearly has the talent needed to make the National Championship, but doing so is going to be more difficult with the slip to N. Alabama this year. The entire starting line-up is made up of seniors and juniors and their QB is a 62.64 for 90 formation IQ. What may be a little different this season, they VSU is lacking that super stud RB that I've been use to seeing. The loss to N. Alabama was not by much and they should breeze through the first couple rounds and be in the quarterfinals. It will be up to Champ83 to turn it on like normal to make that extra push.
Battle in the Trenches
Offensive Line 71.53 Core, 79 Blocking, 77 Strength
Defensive Line 67.44 Core, 73 Tackling, 82 Strength
Player to Watch
Pair of stud LB's in Douglas Miller and James Orr both enjoying their senior season. 68.37, 68.23 and combine for 9 sacks and 4 interceptions.
#10 Kentucky State (Dukelegend)
Let's start off by saying, this team should not be ranked within the top ten. They have a starter core rating of 58.98 which is ranked 52nd and only 4 seniors. They do have 20 juniors but really don't have to the talent needed to make a solid playoff run. But that's not why I have them here, I'm putting them 10th because of Dukelegend's game planning and making the most out of this team. They lost week 2 to Winona St (9-1) 38-33, then turned around and upset Saint Joseph's 35-27 and a good Albany State team 66-16. SJ has not lost a conference championship since season 105 and they have a chance for revenge against KSU in the upcoming CC.
Battle in the Trenches
Offensive Line 62.52 Core, 69 Blocking, 67 Strength
Defensive Line 61.96 Core, 73 Tackling, 74 Strength
Player to Watch
DL Henry Hatfield 65.16
Predicted Conference Championship
Virginia St vs NC Central
Virginia State got off to a rocky start with an early loss to Western New Mexico 24-19. They rebounded nicely against teams they should beat and then delivered a convincing win over NC Central 62-14. Coral_reefer made it to the quarterfinals last season and NCCU lacks the play maker needed at Quarterback and upperclassmen to compete.
Verdict: Virginia State
Virginia State finished 16-1 last season and Coral_reefer is in his 5th season looking to advance further. Initially, they were ranked #4 by GUESS rankings to start the season and with a CC win and high WIS ranking, they could sail through the playoffs to the final four. Their win over NC Central 62-14 told us all we need to know that there is no one in the CIAA that will deny them the title.
Verdict: 12-1 (quarter finals)
NC Central is led by dakjd901 who enters his second season and currently has them sitting at 8-2. With only sims left on the schedule, they should finish 11-2 which is an improvement over last seasons 10-5 performance. He recruited the last two classes inside the top 25 creating a good situation for the future. Currently ranked #31, it may put them in a situation where it's a must win needed in the CC to make the playoffs.
Verdict 11-2 (miss playoffs)
Predicted Conference Championship
Northern Michigan University vs Ferris State
Northerm Michigan is a grade above the rest of the conference. Saginaw Valley St probably had the best chance to beat them and they lost 42-0. FSU is going to have the element of surprise since they don't play 2 times this year, so anything can happen when they meet. Still, I feel that NMU is too balanced across the board and will win the conference.
Verdict: Northern Michigan
Great Lakes is probably THE power conference of Rockne D2. Currently, there are 5 teams that all should make the playoffs. The stand out this season is clearly Northern Michigan who only has Ferris State left in the Conference Championship.
Northern Michigan led by spthibodeau, has been the power of the conference for quite some time but over the past 4 seasons, they have made the NC twice and won 1 time. After an 18-1 last year, they look even more dominant to return this year. I highly doubt Ferris State beats them in the CC and expect to see NMU as the front running heading out of the GLIAC.
Verdict: 13-0 (Final Four)
Ferris State is looking at almost a 4 point core disadvantage this year versus NMU which may be too great to overcome. Coachoatie is known for game planning on offense and his RB/WR duo this season could keep him in any game. I think they will show up in the CC but will take the loss. Last season they got knocked out in round 2 and if they lose the CC, their seeding might put them in a tough match again for round 2.
Verdict: 12-1 (quarter finals)
Saginaw Valley St. has a great coach in ojpick who is capable of making a NC run this season. Right now, they are heavily focused on an all run attack which should beat most of the teams they face. They will need to look to use their other weapons once they get deeper in the playoffs. I see them as a quarterfinal / semi-final team but it's going to depend if they stick solely to running the ball.
Verdict: 12-1 (quarter finals)
Hillsdale is in their 4th season of a rebuild by Omcs1981. A good rebuild usually takes 7-8 seasons to make the final four or even win a NC. After a tough loss to Ferris St. 37-10, they have 2 challenging games left that I think they will clean up on and finish strong. They're currently ranked #23 by WIS and should make the playoffs. What I like about this team is the strength of their class is 14 juniors and 23 freshman on the roster. The future is bright for Hillsdale.
Verdict: 12-1 (second round)
Findlay led by bobbybd, is in their 5th season of a rebuild and it looks like everything is starting to click. Unfortunately, they have to face a surprising challenge tonight in Northwood, then Ferris State and the last game is Hillsdale. Even if they lose 2 out of the next 3, there is a chance with their SOS that they still make the playoffs.
Verdict: 9-4 (1st Round)
Newcomer Raginirish takes the scene with Northwood who has played some surprising games in his first season. This is a complete rebuild and they only lost 38-24 to a hot Kentucky St. team and 10- versus Saginaw Valley St. Still, they are a long ways out and they won't make the playoffs.
Verdict: 5-8
Predicted Conference Championship
N. Alabama versus Ouachita Baptist
Stunning victory over Valdosta St 33-27, makes N. Alabama about as close to a lock for the Conference Championship as you can get. There is a chance that Henderson State could pull off their own upset over N. Alabama but looking at common opponents played, it doesn't seem likely. Fazbear05 has done a great job since switching from NC Central. He went 11-4 last year and finished in the 2nd round, this season I'm thinking quarterfinals. Should they make the CC, a AI-SIM opponent will be waiting on the other side for an easy win.
Verdict: N. Alabama
North Alabama brought in Fazbear05 for one thing, to get the job done. Clearly, Fazbear05 has not been shy about facing competition and often schedules the hardest non-conference schedules. That experience has paid dividends, in only his second season with N. Alabama, he has them headed to the Conference Championship. They still need to head up against a tough Henderson State team, but luck seems to be on their side.
Verdict: 12-1 (quarter finals)
Valdosta St has led the conference since season 116, but this will likely be the first year that we don't see them enter the playoffs as the GSC champ. It won't matter though, Champ83 is capable of winning the NC with the right match-ups and since the seeds are not always favorable those ranked higher, I think VSU will make a good run.
Verdict: 12-1 (quarter finals)
Henderson St. coached by t_roy84 went from SIM to superstar over night. In only his second season of the rebuild, they are currently 10-0 with two tough games left on the schedule. Currently ranked #15, should they lose to VSU and N. Alabama, they will likely still make the playoffs. I see them making the playoffs but likely dropping out in the first round.
Verdict: 11-2 (round 1)
Southern Arkansas is a big rebuild project and brfutt0408 has undertaken the job. He looks like a brand new coach who made the jump to Southern Arkansas. Currently they are 5-5 with a meeting against VSU left on the schedule.
Verdict: 7-6
Predicted Conference Championship
Texas A&M-Commerce vs Central Oklahoma
Texas A&M-Commerce is the favorite to come out of the LSC again and is just getting into the meaty portion of their schedule. The knocked off Central Oklahoma earlier in the season and still has to face conference rival Angelo State. I have to pull for my team here and think TAMC finishes strong.
Verdict: TAMC
Texas A&M Commerce lead by akua29, is in our 8th season and have made the final four for the last 4 seasons. This year, we are primed for a deep run and bolstered by 20 seniors. Currently ranked #16, we need a statement games versus #6 Angelo State and a win in the CC to move higher in the ranks for a good seed.
Verdict: 13-0 (Final Four)
Angelo State is the next best team in the conference is led by first year coach lsusaint. Lsusaint has already shown that Angelo St. is on the rise with a great win over Albany St. 24-3 and Humboldt St. 24-17. Their WIS rank of #6 is strong and they will need to play lights out in order to beat TAMC. Even if they lose, they will get a great seed in the playoffs.
Verdict: 12-1 (second round)
Central Oklahoma and jawz have found pay dirt. In a full rebuild and only in the first season, Jawz is 8-2 and won over an established SE Oklahoma-Durant team. They also showed up well versus Angelo State (his old team) by losing 32-14. Tonight is a huge game for this program as they face off against an established all run team in Tarleton State. Should they win, they can be sure to make it to the CC in Jawz first season.
Verdict: 11-2 (first round)
Coach Munchnugget has taken the reigns of Tarleton State 5 seasons ago and took a brave step forward to be different. What is so different about this team? For those who remember older versions of GD, it's Always Run, Very Aggressive! Out of a difficult to defend trips formation, he sacrifices much of his team for speed running backs and offensive line. If you think I'm joking, I'm not, with 15 offensive linemen on the roster breaking down to 5 starters per 3 classes. It's a great project and surprisingly, it often works! He still has to face 2 tough rivals with Central Oklahoma and SE Oklahoma-Durant where I think they should split those games.
Verdict: 9-4
Abilene Christian sought after a coach looking for a new beginning and found head coach Heelboy over at wingate. After playing two seasons with them, it was time for a fresh start and he successful filled his first class and is looking to a bright future.
Verdict: 6-7
Predicted Conference Championship
Cheyney vs Central Missouri State
When looking for the MIAA's best, there is no better team than a coach Waregl72 led team at Cheyney. Coming off a recent National Championship, Cheyney has steamrolled the conference opponents and will likely meet Central Missouri St in the Conference Championship who they beat 75-3 earlier in the season.
Verdict: Cheyney Wins
Cheyney is an elite power house and they proved it with a big win over Ferris St. 40-25 in week 2. Waregl72 has been a great recruiter landed a top 4 or better class each season he has been with the team. Currently ranked #2 and a easy path to the playoffs, I expect to seem them in the Final Four this year.
Verdict: 13-0 (Final Four)
Missouri- Rolla and Olrdneck is a playoff contending team but is a shadow in the presence of Cheyney. Unfortunately, this means they won't be in the conference championship, but with a current ranking of #26 we should see them in the playoffs for the 8 season in row. Could they make it to round two? Tough to say having a core rating outside the top 40, they will need some fortune in the seeding to do it.
Verdict: 12-1 (Round 1)
Central Missouri State is a 4 year program that was built by AZHawg and taken over this season by trajon12. Trajon12 inherited a tough non-conference schedule leading to 3 losses and then fell to the hands of Cheyney. Not a bad season for a first year coach who will likely look to schedule an easier non-conference to improve their record for next season. His recruiting class was a good start and he will need to improved the talent to take advantage of the wide open Northern bracket.
Verdict: 9-4
Predicted Conference Championship
Humboldt State vs North Dakota State
Humboldt St. has had it's down years over the past 4 seasons making it to the 2nd round only twice. Jaylien1 leads the lumberjacks and what is for an excellent season with only a close loss to Angelo St. 24-17. North Dakota State takes on Bama2448 who will try to rebuild after their previous coach had 3 mediocre seasons and then it went SIM control last year. Humboldt has a 65 Core versus NDSU 59 but both will feature two very good coaches. This year, I think it's going to be Humboldt St. due to overall talent.
Verdict: Humboldt St.
Humboldt St. is by no means in full control of the NCC. They are playing great this year and still have to take on a tough Central Washington team to make the CC. Jaylien1 landed the #10 recruit class was a huge plus for the first year coach and if he has a good run this year, his vision will improve and they may be able to get a good hold on this conference in a couple a seasons.
Verdict: 12-1 (second round)
North Dakota St. landed a great coach in Bama2448 who if he stays, could make it challenging for the Western Bracket to sweep the CC each year. His team has a very balanced class depth which should make recruiting a bit easier, once he gets his vision up.
Verdict: 12-1 (first round)
Central Washington has performed miracles and then had them taken away. In AJ_Scarlato's first season of a rebuild, they upset Humboldt State and should of went to the Conference Championship. That did not happen, due to recruiting violations. In his second year, we thought he would be banned again but they allowed CWU into the playoffs. This was huge because not only did they shock the fans by making it, they also advanced to the second round after a 13-2 season. CWU beat 3 out of 4 human opponents this season and is on the very outside almost looking in for the playoffs. Humboldt St is still on the menu in the final game of the season and is a must win for this program.
Verdict: 11-2
Nebraska-Omaha has a 3 year rebuild going with head coach jbob23. The roster in on par with all the programs except for Humboldt St. They have suffered 4 losses to human opponents and took on Saint Joseph's and Presbyterian. They played SJ very well in a 34-17 loss and showed potential for next year. Currently at 4-6 though, this season is about over.
Verdict: 6-7
Predicted Conference Championship
Long Island vs Pace
In many ways, this conference is wide open for who will win the Conference Championship. Southern Connecticut could sneak in on the final game of the season. However, in a rematch of last season, Long Island enters this game under new leadership. Bigpoppa85 has been winning games across the D2 worlds and looks to bring his experience to the NE-10. Jpnroos has had Pace performing above their level and not only won the CC last season, but went 15-1 and made it to the second round. The first time these teams met was in week 7 where Long Island won 41-28, but that was Long Island hosting and the CC will be on a neutral field. What an exciting rematch!
Verdict: Long Island
Pace and jpnroos are off to another great season and with a current #20 ranking should make the playoffs. He has probably the best team on paper in the conference but not by much. Recruiting #12 with 18 freshmen, this is a growing year. Only 7 seniors and zero on offense could be a problem. Their formation IQ is down at QB and defense but his game planning is making up for it.
Verdict: 11-2 (2nd Round)
Long Island under Bigpoppa85 started out with a bang landing the #9 recruit class on 16 freshmen. Their defensive is about equal to Pace but their offense is just a bit better. With pretty good class depth on both sides of the ball and a formation IQ over 70 at QB, I think LI brings home the CC if they can get around Southern Connecticut.
Verdict: 13-0 (2nd Round)
Southern Connecticut has been coach ran for 5 seasons and now into it's 6th. NotAbot has done well winning 11+ in the last 2 seasons with an exit in the 1st round. This season they have a solid RB as a weapon in Carlos Winters that could spell trouble for Long Island. It's possible that this is their year, but their defense is slightly worse than Long Island. We will have to wait an see until the last game of the season to find out!
Verdict: 11-2
Saint Anselm is a six season project by pg99 and they have had some ups and downs. They did have a 10-3 season a in season 132 but have struggled I think with the increased competition. The NE-10 is loaded with coaches and it's difficult to raise recruit vision with losses. Still, they have a chance to finish strong with 3 more wins.
Verdict: 7-6
Merrimack got a good coach in Starfinder77 this season after I believe a mistaken hiring click! Lucky for Merrimack and we hope that starfinder77 can turn the rebuild into a success and he doesn't leave after a horrid schedule! 10 human coaches versus a really bad rebuild team and that just equals nasty.
Verdict: 3-10
Bentley is coached by Reigny. That's all there is too say about that.
Verdict: Who cares.
Predicted Conference Championship
Winona State versus West Liberty State
In a rematch for azcowboy1 versus jibe, the previous game went to Winona St 56-28. West liberty has a huge group of upper class seniors (17) and juniors (14) with great formation IQ from their QB Eric Bradley. They also run the Shotgun formation which bolds well against a shaky secondary in Winona St. Winona is the opposite, they only have 12 seniors and 8 juniors but in what they lack, they make up in pure fire power. Senior QB Garcia has FIQ of 83 and one of the best offensive lines in the country. Two great weapons at WR over 70+ core ratings and it is no wonder why they put up 56 points. I don't see the outcome being much different this season.
Verdict: Winona St.
Winona St. got one of the more unknown coaches who took over named Azcowboy1. Unsure if it's an ALT for a main account, they brought in the #6 recruit class which showed experience. They also seem to know how to get the most out of their offense and beat the teams they were suppose to. Either way, this team is in good hands and I expect a good playoff performance after last seasons 16-1 finish.
Verdict: 12-1 (quarter finals)
West Liberty St. also received a gift in head coach Jibe who recruited well landing #19. The previous coach did very well rebuilding but struggled to get over 11 wins. This is going to be the year to do it, but they will need to do better versus Winona St. in the CC. It's great to see a Shotgun/Trips team and Jibe has embraced it which bolds well for the program.
Verdict: 11-2 (second round)
Bemidji St. was all alone out in the middle of no where. After 3 seasons of vacancy, Columbusbuck to the job and the challenge in recruiting near North Dakota. With 4 human opponents on the non-conference schedule, they managed to split the games 2-2 and only lost by 7 points to West Liberty State. They only landed the #40 class which is excellent for a first year rebuild.
Verdict: 9-4
Predicted Conference Championship
West Chester vs Edinboro
Edinboro is entering their 3 season under new leadership and will likely face the conference favorite West Chester. Vhowards's talent is slowly getting there but West Chester is nearing final four caliber. This game will be no contest as West Chester easily wins.
Verdict: West Chester
West Chester is a step above the conference and 2000champou has done an excellent job pushing them into prime time. After two back to back seasons of 16-1, they are ready to push into the final four and I believe this could be their season. The only thing holding me back is the current #29 WIS ranking that will likely pit them against the hardest matches early in the playoffs. WC is super balanced across the board but their offensive line may be the only weak point but has yet been tested. Their defense is great and they 8 seniors to boast which should keep them in every game.
Verdict: 13-0 (quarter finals)
Bloomsburg is one of my favorite rebuilds (in their 3rd year) to watch at the moment and it's led by a coach who goes by jms245. Coach jms245 has 10 NC's to his name in only 49 seasons and those wins are in the world Yost under what team do you think? That's right, Bloomsburg... go figure! Rockne is in for a world of hurt in the near future but it won't be this season. His team is getting better, but it's doubtful they have the talent to slip past West Chester or the first round.
Verdict: 12-1 (first round)
Edinboro and vhoward415 is a great combination and what this world really needs, a slow builder. The talent of the team is really growing at a nice pace even though they are not winning a ton to gain an increase in vision. I don't think vision is terribly crucial in a slow build, but depth class spacing can be and vhoward is showing it has his teams core is on par with all the teams in his conference except WC. It looks like they will end up being a Trips / 4-3 team and he has started the redshirting QB process with lots of tasty WR's. Give them a full 8 season run and this could be the best team to win the NC at that time.
Verdict: 8-5
Kutztown is coached by mrincubus and looks to be abandoned in season 2.
Predicted Conference Championship
W. New Mexico versus Fort Lewis
This match is crazy right? I've thought about it because it's tough to put anyone from RMAC against the dominant Midwestern St, but W. New Mexico has landed. They played well against the same opponents but a couple games really stand out to me. The win over Virginia St. 24-19, the loss to a really good N. Alabama who just beat Valdosta St. 37-33 and a bashing over Mesa State 42-13. It's also tough to pick against justp3ach3y who returned to us after a 1 season break, because this coach can game plan well. I'm going to go with my gut based on how well Fort Lewis has played and I think they are going to sneak a close one off against Mesa St.
Verdict: W. New Mexico
Midwestern St is the creme of the crop when it comes to the RMAC and they just may be again this year. They have to keep an eye on a growing W. New Mexico team that has a legitimate shot at beating them for the last game of the season. Overall, they have a very balanced roster and power across the board. It should be enough to finish the year strong and win out but I think they end up losing a very close one at the end.
Verdict: 11-2 (second round)
W. New Mexico St is coached by tmelonhead who a heck of a job recruiting from this location. In the past 6 seasons he has brought the 58,28,29,19 and 16th best recruit classes. It's a constant stream of improvement and he nabbed the #1 RB in the country this season for the future. On paper this team should not be as competitive yet, but with 15 seniors and some great game planning, they could make the Conference Championship.
Verdict: 11-2 (second round)
Fort Lewis has jong44 leading the way after a 10-3 last season. With 15 seniors and nice RB, this is the year to make a push in the playoffs. They scheduled a tough non-conference versus St. Joseph's and Northern Michigan and had to play the best RMAC teams. Right now they are WIS #34 and really have to win out to get into the playoffs.
Verdict: 10-3 (first round)
It's great to have justp3ach3y return and he takes over an established Mesa State team who needs a push to get over the hump. This is just that guy and he brings in the #21 recruit class in his first season. Big win over West Liberty State 48-19 put this program on the radar and I can only expect them to go up next season.
Verdict: 10-3 (first round)
Predicted Conference Championship
Presbyterian vs Shepherd
This is the year for Presbyterian to right the ship and move the program back to it's high point. In probably the 2nd toughest conference, it could be them, Shepherd or Tusculum who captures the title. This season, I believe it will be a rematch between these two programs and their first meeting was really close, Presbyterian W20-13.
Verdict: Presbyterian
Rposborne is an excellent recruiter and has brought in a top 5 class since season 123. In season 135 they finished with #23 and it may of been a step back based on their current vision after a 13 then 12 win season. This is the season to right the ship and Presbyterian has to win. During the past couple seasons, they have not been consistent on offense and this year it appears they fixed some of those issues. Huge win over N. Alabama 23-20 and Shepherd 20-13 means they are ready to claw their way back into the spot light.
Verdict: 13-0 (Semi Finals) Wait what? Yes, I think they could go that far. With the #4 seed and 5th best roster, it's a real possibility.
Shepherd has one of the longest tenured coaches in dawgnuts who makes it to the playoffs only to exit in the first round. Currently ranked #30, they are forced to win out and hope the ranking improves. They can do just that with a win over Bigpapamatt's #33 West Virginia Tech team.
Verdict: 11-2 (first round)
Tusculum has a great coach in clememp who also makes the coaches board more fun to read by participating with everyone. They won the CC a couple seasons ago and exited the first last season. With a big lost to N. Alabama and to Shepherd the team is not ready to compete in the playoffs. They only lose 2 this season, so you can expect a much stronger effort next year.
Verdict: 10-3 (first round)
West Virginia Tech brought in bigpapamatt to do a job and he is doing it. Now on it's 4th season, the rebuild is moving up in the right direction. After finishing 8-5, they have already improved over it and have a small chance at making the playoffs.
Verdict: 11-2
Predicted Conference Championship
Kentucky State vs Saint Joseph's
There was a change in the air down south and it happened when Dukelegend at Kentucky St. took down the SIAC giant in Saint Joseph's. Now is season 135, SJ has not lost the CC since season 105. Heck of an accomplishment, but can it be done again? We are likely going to find out as both teams are on a direct course and the last game ended with KSU W35-27. I think Saint Joseph finds a way to squeak this one out.
Verdict: Saint Joseph's
Saint Joseph's has been a really dominating team but they are struggling this season against teams they should beat. They have a pretty solid roster and formation IQ, it may be due to a lower IQ on the defensive side at 44. With only 9 seniors, they still have plenty of talent featuring a strong defense but weaker at QB. This could also be the difference, but this CC game has huge importants to the program, so I think they pull it out.
Verdict: 11-2 (second round)
Albany St. and fbuckster have been together since season 114. The last 2 seasons they missed the playoffs and are currently in position to do it again. At 6-4 this is an off year but it's also their youngest. With 18 freshman and only 6 seniors, they will grow to once again return.
Verdict: 9-4
Morehouse College is a rebuild on steroids as sportsdouche has finished 11-3 and 12-2 in their first 2 seasons together. This year they struggled against some SIM teams which usually means growing pains but I expect this team to go next level next season. Sportsdouche brought in the #15th best class in only his 3rd season and after the 12 seniors leave, the whole team will be his recruiting.
Verdict: 8-5
Kentucky State has done what many teams cannot and that is have a legitimate shot at winning the SIAC. Dukelegend took control of a rebuilding team and put magic on it. Huge loss to Winona St. 38-33 and the win over Saint Joseph 35-27 shows that a great coach can make mediocre talent competitive. If he can get this team to win the SIAC and into the second round, it's going to be amazing to watch.
Verdict: 12-1 (second round)
It feels like a marathon but we made it, the last team is Lane and it's bofreedom who stepped to take on a rebuild. This is an all sim team and they are currently 5-5 in the first year. Keep your eye on this team, bofreedom has a team in D-IA and so he has the experience to build this team up to be competitive.
Verdict: 7-6