2022 Record: 7-6, 5-3 MAC
2023 MAC Head Coaches Poll: Third MAC East
The Buffalo Bulls were riding a five-game winning streak and coming off a big win over future MAC champ Toledo after eight games last year. Three straight losses sank UB's MAC East title hopes, but a 23-22 win against Akron in the regular season finale paid off with a sixth win and bowl invitation. Buffalo took advantage of the opportunity, knocking off Georgia Southern 23-21 in the Camellia Bowl.
MAC head coaches recently voted defending East champ Ohio as a favorite to prevail again in 2023. Indeed, it was Ohio who started the Bulls decisive three-game losing streak with a 45-24 victory Nov. 1 in Athens. For what it's worth, the Bulls get Ohio in Buffalo this year, but that is a week after UB visits MAC West favorite Toledo. They must also travel to Miami (a preseason pick in some polls) after Ohio. Those two matchups -- Ohio and Miami -- could make or break the Bulls MAC East title dreams this year.
>> The Bulls were fourth among MAC teams in scoring last year, with Ohio (first) being the only East Division team ahead of them. Buffalo was fifth in total offense (377.2 ypg), seventh in rushing (141.8 ypg) and third in passing (235.3 ypg).
>> Although the Bulls have known for rushing, quarterback Cole Snyder helped elevate the passing game in 2022. He'll return this year, but UB will need to find replacements for its top two receivers. Justin Marshall and Quian Williams combined for 89 catches, 1,580 yards, and 14 of the team's 18 receiving touchdowns. Senior Boobie Curry is a former four-star recruit who transferred in from Arizona, but the 6-2 (205) target recorded just six receptions for the Bulls last year. Nik McMillan (6-1, 224) is a promising redshirt freshman. Tight end is even thinner on experienced production.
>> As for Snyder, the former Rutgers player started all 13 games for Buffalo in 2022, completing 58.7 percent of his passes. His efforts produced 3,030 passing yards and 18 TDs, making him the third QB in Bulls history to throw for over 3,000 yards in a season. Like head coach Maurice Linquist, he is in his second year with the Bulls, so he'll be even more comfortable in the system.
>> UB returns both of its top two-running backs. Senior Ron Cook and sophomore Mike Washington combined for 289 carries, 1,425 yards and 11 touchdowns last year.
>> Three starters return along the offensive line. Senior Gabe Wallace (6-6, 337) leads the way after earning Third Team All-MAC honors last year.
>> Seniors and experience abound along the first two lines of defense. DTs Jaylon Bass and Daymond Williams are returning starters up front. DE Kyler Lang is back after an injury early last year.
>> Buffalo features one of the top linebackers in the MAC. Shaun Dolac is a tackling machine. He led the conference with 147 tackles in 2022, including a whopping 97 solo hits. He also recorded 4.5 sacks. However, James Patterson, who registered over 100 tackles (117 in 2022, 110 in 2021) and was seventh among MAC tacklers, finished his Bulls career last year.
>> Another returning starter with First Team All-MAC honors to his credit is senior safety Marcus Fuqua. He and corner Caleb Offord will anchor a less experienced secondary. Safety Keyshawn Cobb, who was third among Buffalo defenders, is now with West Virginia.
SPECIAL TEAMS:
>> The Bulls are blessed on special teams. Senior Alex McNulty returns after earning MAC Special Teams Player of the Year honors in 2022. The former walk-on set a school record with 24 made field goals last year. He converted 24-of-28 FG tries, including two scores from over 50 yards (52,54). Punter Anthony Venneri averaged 43 yards per boot last year.
FINAL THOUGHTS:
Despite opening at Wisconsin, Buffalo's early schedule would appear favorable. The Bulls could again find themselves in a solid position heading into the final four games. However, the home game against Ohio is sandwiched between road contests at Toledo and Miami. A home/season finale against Eastern Michigan could also be a toughie as the Eagles are picked for second in the MAC West preseason poll.
The offensive potential is there if UB finds some productive receivers, including tight end. There's talent and experience throuigh much of the defense, and special team is a major plus. The question is, if McNulty kicks more field goals in 2023, will it be because the Bulls are settling for FGs instead of TDs? With Buffalo in its second year under Linquist and Snyder back at TD, chances are they can keep McNulty busy enough kicking extra points.