<![CDATA[MAC Reporter Online - Blog]]>Wed, 12 Aug 2026 23:15:33 -0400Weebly<![CDATA[MAC BASKETBALL]]>Thu, 13 Aug 2026 02:57:51 GMThttps://www.macreporteronline.com/blog/mac-basketball3571441New MAC basketball format awards byes to top four Picture
The Mid-American Conference Men's Basketball Tournament will move to a different format this year.
Jon Rothstein is among those reporting that the new format will:

•  No. 1 and No. 2 seeds will receive byes into the semifinal round.
•  No. 3 and No. 4 seeds will receive byes into the quarterfinal round.

The new format would reward regular season success for the top four teams. 

Last year, Miami went undefeated during the regular season (conference and non-conference), but was upset by UMass in MAC tourney opening round action. Akron went on to win the tournament, thus earning an automatic bid to the NCAA tournament. MU did manage to get a spot in the NCAA's First Four games in Dayton, where it defeated Tennessee. The RedHawks then fell to Tennessee in the round of 64.
]]><![CDATA[MAC BASKETBALL]]>Thu, 13 Aug 2026 02:36:24 GMThttps://www.macreporteronline.com/blog/mac-basketball6270151MAC announces 2026-27 conference schedule Picture
CLEVELAND, Ohio - The Mid-American Conference has announced the 2026-27 MAC Men's Basketball Conference Schedule.
 
The conference season is set to tip off on Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2026. MAC Men's Basketball teams will play 22 games over 12 weeks (eleven home, eleven away).
 
The Men's Basketball regular season will conclude on Friday, March 5, with the top eight teams in the conference moving on to Cleveland’s Rocket Arena for the MAC Men’s Basketball Tournament on March 10-13.
 
The conference office will release a full Men’s Basketball television schedule in October.

CLICK READ MORE FOR DATES/MATCHUPS. . . 
Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2026
Ball State at Akron
Bowling Green at Kent State
Buffalo at Western Michigan
Central Michigan at Miami
Toledo at Ohio
UMass at Eastern Michigan

Saturday, Dec. 5, 2026
Eastern Michigan at Ball State
Kent State at Toledo
Miami at Buffalo
Ohio at Central Michigan
Western Michigan at Bowling Green

Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2026
Eastern Michigan at Toledo
Kent State at Central Michigan
Western Michigan at UMass

Saturday, Dec. 12, 2026
Central Michigan at Eastern Michigan
Toledo at Western Michigan
UMass at Kent State

Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2026
Akron at Buffalo
Miami at Bowling Green
Ohio at Ball State

Saturday, Dec. 19, 2026
Ball State at Miami
Bowling Green at Akron
Buffalo at Ohio

Tuesday, Dec. 29, 2026
Akron at UMass

Saturday, Jan. 2, 2027
Ball State at UMass
Buffalo at Kent State
Eastern Michigan at Miami
Ohio at Bowling Green
Toledo at Central Michigan
Western Michigan at Akron

Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2027
Akron at Ohio
Bowling Green at Central Michigan
Eastern Michigan at Western Michigan
Kent State at Ball State
Miami at Toledo
UMass at Buffalo

Saturday, Jan. 9, 2027
Bowling Green at Eastern Michigan
Buffalo at Toledo
Central Michigan at Ball State
Kent State at Western Michigan
Miami at Akron
UMass at Ohio

Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2027
Akron at Eastern Michigan
Ball State at Bowling Green
Buffalo at Central Michigan
Ohio at Kent State
Toledo at UMass
Western Michigan at Miami

Saturday, Jan. 16, 2027
Akron at Toledo
Ball State at Western Michigan
Bowling Green at Buffalo
Central Michigan at UMass
Eastern Michigan at Ohio
Miami at Kent State

Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2027
Buffalo at Miami
Central Michigan at Akron
Kent State at Eastern Michigan
Toledo at Ball State
UMass at Bowling Green
Western Michigan at Ohio

Saturday, Jan. 23, 2027
Akron at Miami
Ball State at Eastern Michigan
Kent State at Bowling Green
Ohio at UMass
Toledo at Buffalo
Western Michigan at Central Michigan

Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2027
Ball State at Kent State
Bowling Green at Western Michigan
Central Michigan at Toledo
Eastern Michigan at Buffalo
Miami at UMass
Ohio at Akron

Saturday, Jan. 30, 2027
Buffalo at Ball State
Central Michigan at Kent State
Miami at Ohio
Toledo at Bowling Green
UMass at Akron
Western Michigan at Eastern

Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2027
Akron at Western Michigan
Bowling Green at Ball State
Kent State at Miami
Ohio at Buffalo
Toledo at Eastern Michigan
UMass at Central Michigan

Saturday, Feb. 6, 2027
MAC-SBC Challenge (all men’s teams at home versus Sun Belt opponents)

Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2027
Ball State at Toledo
Bowling Green at Miami
Buffalo at Akron
Eastern Michigan at Central Michigan
Kent State at UMass
Ohio at Western Michigan

Saturday, Feb. 13, 2027
Akron at Kent State
Buffalo at Bowling Green
Central Michigan at Ohio
Eastern Michigan at UMass
Miami at Ball State
Western Michigan at Toledo

Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2027
Akron at Bowling Green
Central Michigan at Buffalo
Ohio at Eastern Michigan
Toledo at Miami
UMass at Ball State
Western Michigan at Kent State

Saturday, Feb. 20, 2027
Ball State at Ohio
Bowling Green at Toledo
Eastern Michigan at Akron
Kent State at Buffalo
Miami at Central Michigan
UMass at Western Michigan

Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2027
Buffalo at UMass
Central Michigan at Bowling Green
Kent State at Ohio
Miami at Eastern Michigan
Toledo at Akron
Western Michigan at Ball State

Saturday, Feb. 27, 2027
Akron at Ball State
Bowling Green at UMass
Buffalo at Eastern Michigan
Central Michigan at Western Michigan
Ohio at Miami
Toledo at Kent State

Tuesday, Mar. 2, 2027
Akron at Central Michigan
Ball State at Buffalo
Bowling Green at Ohio
Eastern Michigan at Kent State
Miami at Western Michigan
UMass at Toledo

Friday, Mar. 5, 2027
Ball State at Central Michigan
Eastern Michigan at Bowling Green
Kent State at Akron
Ohio at Toledo
UMass at Miami
Western Michigan at Buffalo
]]><![CDATA[MAC FOOTBALL]]>Sat, 08 Aug 2026 21:47:39 GMThttps://www.macreporteronline.com/blog/mac-football4478778RedHawks reloading for another MAC run Picture
SEASON PREVIEW: MIAMI 
RECORD: 7-7 (6-2 MAC)
2026 HEAD COACHES POLL: 2ND of 13 Teams

MRO STAFF 
It's seldom an easy path to the MAC championship game, but Miami had a particularly rocky road to reach last year's championship tilt.
MU's biggest hurdle was the in-season loss of quarterback Dequan Finn -- not to injury, but to ... "preparing for the NFL draft." 
The former Toledo Rocket and MAC Offensive Player of the Year came to Miami after a season at Baylor. He saw action in eight games, leading MU to a 4-4 record (4-1 MAC) before pulling the plug.  
After falling to Toledo, the RedHawks . . . 

​CONTINUE . . . 
]]><![CDATA[MAC FOOTBALL]]>Fri, 07 Aug 2026 02:04:34 GMThttps://www.macreporteronline.com/blog/mac-football9922070Broncos have weapons to make another MAC title run
Opponents can expect more of WMU's physical football
Picture
SEASON PREVIEW: WESTERN MICHIGAN 
RECORD: 10-4, 7-1
2026 HEAD COACHES POLL: 1st of 13 Teams

MRO STAFF 
You're doing a lot of things right when you finish a season with double digits wins overall, a league title and a bowl win.
Such was Western Michigan's 2025 season, and according to opposing MAC coaches, the Broncos just might go into replay mode this year.
Yes, WMU has . . . 
. . . enough returning this year to earn a preseason poll nod. The Broncos are second among MAC teams in returning production and appear solid in numeous areas. At the same time, their margin for slipups will again be thin. 
Western Michigan pulled out victories against Toledo, Central Michigan, and Ohio by a total of eight points in 2025. Can it prevail in similarly close encounters this time around?
PictureBROC LOWRY
OFFENSE: 
•  WMU ranked third among MAC teams in scoring offense (24.9 ppg) and sixth in total offense (342.7 ypg) last year. To be sure, the Broncos strength was rushing as they averaged 204.2 ypg. -- second only to Ohio (227.4 ypg). The passing game, meanwhile, produced 138.5 ypg -- 12th of 13 teams. 
•  MAC Offensive Player of the Year Broc Lowry is returning at quarterback. As a passer, he completed 64.7 percent of his attempts (3rd MAC) and recorded nine  passing TDs while throwing three interceptions. He was sixth in passing efficiency. 
•  As opposing coaches can attest, Lowry is a major threat when running the football. He actually led Bronco runners in carries (203), was first in TDs (14)  and second in rushing yards gained (963). 
•  Junior running back Jalen Buckley (5-11, 203) also elected to return. He was particularly strong down the stretch and totaled 1,003 yards on the ground. Buckley's two long TD runs (67 and 64 yards) against Miami in the MAC championship were keys to a 23-13 Broncos victory. 
•  Three senior starters -- Chad Schuster, Gavid Dabo and Hunter Whitenack -- are back to anchor the front line. Also returning is center Jeremy Schleicher.
•  Wideouts Baylin Brooks and Avelon Chenault combined for 50 catches, 649 yards and two TDs in 2025. 
DEFENSE: 
•  Defense often flies under the radar, but MAC coaches know WMU's 2025 championship run owed plenty to a unit that ranked No. 2 in scoring defense (17.4 ppg) and total defense (305.5 ypg). The scoring defense was ninth nationally. 
•  Defensive coordinator Chris O'Leary is now with the Los Angeles Chargers. His work helped mold a defense that proved difficult to run against and yet generated significant pass pressure. WMU ranked second among MAC teams in run defense (125.6 ypg) and first in sacks (43).
•  Three starters -- CB Joshua Franklin (Third Team All-MAC), CB Jarvarius Sims and S Micah Davis -- return in the secondary. Sophomore John Peters picked up some valuable experienced at corner last year. 
•  Transfers Ahmed Tourkara (Ohio State) and Austin Alexander (North Carolina) will join the mix up front, where Scoop Garner and Dakari Frazier could start. It will be a group effort as WMU no longer has Nadame Tucker (20.5 TFLs, 14.5 sacks). 
•  Linebackers Domanick Moon (13 games) and Dillon Moore (14 games) saw action last year and should be key contributors this season. Transfers Brenden Anes (Tennessee) and Justyce Betts (JUCO) join the rotation. 
"We didn't lose a single offensive or defensive starter in the portal"
​-- Head  Coach Lance Taylor
SPECIAL TEAMS: 
•  Redshirt senior Palmer Domschke converted 40-of-42 PATs and 13-of-19 field goals in 2025. He was 9-of-12 from 40 yards out, with a long of 50 and came through with big kicks in several close games. 
Punter Ryan Millmore averaged 42.4 yards per boot. 
•  The special teams unit could get a boost in the return game as Kordell Gouldsby joins WMU after five career return TDs at Hutchinson Community College. 

FINAL THOUGHTS: 
Western Michigan will again be a solid team that thrives on physical football. The run game returns with its weapons intact and a boasts a line to "make things happen." If WMU gets a multi-score lead, the Broncos could be difficult to catch as they led the MAC in time of possession (32.27 per game) in 2025. 
There are more questions on the defensive side, including what effect a new defensive coordinator might have. Greer Martini was on WMU's staff as a linebackers coach last year, so he should be familiar with last year's successful formula. 
Tucker's departure is a significant hit on the defensive front, but transfers should help WMU keep pressure on opposing offenses.
Western Michigan opens the season Sept. 5 at Michigan. After hosting Monmouth and visiting Rice, the Broncos get Boise State at home Sept. 26. 
Two of the tougher MAC road games should be Central Michigan (Oct. 17) and Toledo (Oct. 24).
Western Michigan ends regular season play in what could be a pivotal matchup against Miami (in Kalamazoo). The two teams split last year, with WMU claiming a MAC title game win. Various publications have the two teams ranked either first or second. Likewise with the preseason MAC Coaches Poll, which gives Western Michigan the edge. 
]]><![CDATA[MAC FOOTBALL]]>Thu, 06 Aug 2026 04:48:38 GMThttps://www.macreporteronline.com/blog/mac-football6124809Curtis-led Rockets will lean on transfers in 2026 Picture
SEASON PREVIEW: TOLEDO
RECORD: 9-4 (6-2 MAC)
2026 HEAD COACHES POLL: 4th of 13 Teams

MRO STAFF 
This is a year of change for Toledo.
The Rockets have a new head coach and a roster replete with transfer talent. While there could be some "system" changes, as well, HQ Mike Jacobs seems confident new schemes/terminology will translate.
Jason Candle, who joined Toledo as an assistant in 2009, eventually guided UT from 2016-2025. His Rocket squads compiled an 81-44 overall record and went 54-25 in Mid-American Conference play. The 2017 group reigned as MAC champs. 
After an 8-4 (6-2 MAC) record in 2025, Candle accepted the head coaching position at Connecticut. 
Enter Mike Jacobs, who . . . 
PictureHEAD COACH MIKE JACOBS
. . . Toledo hired in December (2025). The 24-year collegiate coaching veteran has built a 94-23 record as head coach -- fourth in winning percentage among the top active coaches in NCAA Divisions I and II.
The Maumee, Ohio native led Mercer to a 20-6 record (15-1 Southern Conference) and two trips to the NCAA-Division I FCS playoffs over the past two seasons.
Some people, of course, may wonder if Jacobs can be as successful on the FBS level. Time will tell, but it will be more than Jacobs making the plunge. Among 36 total transfers joining UT, 14 are from Mercer and/or other FCS schools. 
It's a talented enough mix, and MAC coaches ranked the Rockets No. 3 in the  preseason poll. Toledo missed the 2025 title game by a tie-breaker. Can it get back to Detroit this time around?
PictureJOHN ALAN RICHTER
OFFENSE: 
•  Toledo led the MAC in scoring (30.8 ppg) and total offense (415.2 ypg) last year. 
Jacobs' Mercer team, meanwhile, averaged 36.2 ppg and was third among all FCS teams in total offense. With some impressive playmakers among the incoming talent, the Rockets may once again be among MAC offensive leaders.
•  Quarterback Tucker Gleason threw for 2,515 yards with a league-best 21 TDs and nine interceptions in his final collegiate campaign. A likely replacement would be John Alan Richter. He saw action in three games last year, completing 17-of-25 tosses for 153 yards (3 TDs) before a late September injury cost him the remainder of 2025. 
"He's shown tremendous leadership in a time of great change," Curtis said. He's one of the more important (player) 'gets' when we came to Toledo."
•  There are four Rockets with some starting experience along the O-line, including senior tackle Stephen Gales (11 starts). 
•  CJ Miller (5-11, 235) rushed for 957 yards and 14 TDs last year at Mercer. He also caught 26 passes for another 314 yards and three scores.
"He's a big player (with) really quick feet," said Curtis, adding that Miller's size/skill combination resembled a Jerome Bettis type running back. 
Connor Walendzak (5-11, 208) is another option. He ran for 458 yards during UT's 2024 season. 
•  There are plenty of transfers among UT wide receivers. Kalvin Gilbert Jr (Southeast Missouri State), Anthony Simpson (Michigan) and Adjatay Dabbs (Mercer) are among the targets. 
"The whole wide receiver room essentially is new and has been rebuilt," Curtis said. 
DEFENSE: 
•  Toledo also topped the MAC in scoring defense (13.3 ppg) and total defense (254.3 ypg). 
•  Perhaps the best bet to be a high impact transfer to the UT program is Andrew Zock. The former Mercer Bear was named FCS Player of the Year in 2025. Among his impressive stats are 20 TFL and 11.5 sacks. 
•  There is more Mercer at linebacker, with Julian Fox and Issac Prince shining for the Bears last year. Kari Jackson, meanwhile, is coming off two seasons at Penn State. 
•  Safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren (All-MAC First Team) is gone. Transfer Armorion Smith (Michigan State) could help fill the void. Corner Cam Jones (Holy Cross) and nickel back Mo Conteh (Ohio Dominican) will help patrol the secondary.

SPECIAL TEAMS: 
•  Dylan Conanan is now at Texas State. Moving in as kicker is Reice Griffith. He split the uprights on 40-of-52 field goal attempts and also hit all 145 PATs over three seasons at Mercer. He was successful on both kicks of at least 50 yards last year. The punter position could be filled in fall camp, but Bryson Hammer is back to return punts. He led MAC punt returners in each of the last two seasons. 
"I want to win championships. I want to be the hometown kid that in some way, shape or form (gets it done)." -- New Head Coach Mike Jacobs
FINAL THOUGHTS: 
As a Toledo area native, Curtis is well aware of the Rockets winning tradition. He is bringing his own winning ways with him as he takes over the program. He's also bringing a BUNCH (51) of players. Quite a few are from his own Mercer Bears squad, which should help the transition. At the same time, many transfers are stepping up to the FBS level. How well can they they perform on the new stage?
The Rockets will field an experienced offensive line, and that is usually a good start for success. With Miller running behind it and Richter back at quarterback, two more keys are in place. It's Toledo, so a couple of receivers should rise to productive roles. 
The defense also has playmakers and special teams looks promising.
The schedule is relatively friendly for the most part. After opening at Michigan State, the Rockets host Central Connecticut, Temple and San Diego State. Following an Oct. 24 showdown with defending champion Westen Michigan, Sacramento State (away) and UMass (Home) open November. Rival Bowling Green visits on Friday, Nov. 20 and Toledo closes at Ohio Nov. 27. 
]]><![CDATA[MAC FOOTBALL]]>Tue, 04 Aug 2026 22:40:42 GMThttps://www.macreporteronline.com/blog/mac-football7157994Reloading Ohio lurks as 2026 MAC darkhose Picture
​SEASON PREVIEW: OHIO UNIVERSITY
RECORD: 9-4 (6-2 MAC)
2026 HEAD COACHES POLL: 4th of 13 Teams

MRO STAFF 
After winning a MAC title in 2024, the Ohio Bobcats came whisper close to a third MAC Championship game apearance in three years in 2025. While their 6-2 conference record equaled rival Miami and Toledo -- one game behind Western Michigan -- Miami advanced on a tiebreaker. 
Shortly before Ohio's bowl game against UNLV, the school suddenly dismissed head coach Brian Smith. Moving into that position was defensive coordinator John Hauser. 
It was another . . . 
. . . internal move for Ohio, which is on its third coach since the departure of 16-year Bobcat coaching legend Frank Solich after the 2020 season.
Like Solich, Tim Albin and Smith fielded successful teams that reached bowls. The question is, can Hauser keep Ohio among the MAC's elite football programs?
The 'Cats were ranked fourth in this year's MAC Coaches Preseason Poll. It's certainly upper tier territory but not coming in higher has more to do with player turnover than Hauser or his staff. 
OFFENSE: 
•  Veteran QB Parker Navarro is gone after throwing for 2,375 yards and 14 touchdowns in 2025. He also ran for another 886 yards and nine scores. 
Running back Sieh Bangura, who averaged 5.8 ypc while totaling 1,392 yards last year, is also gone, so there are some serious questions to be answered. 
Grad student Nick Poulos (6-3, 243) is one possible solution at quarterback. He has been in the wings for two years, albeit with limited game experience. 
Junior Matt Vezza has impressed since transferring in from New Hampshire and freshman Levi Davis could work his way on the field.  
•  As for running back, the Bobcats can move Duncan Brune (5-11, 218, Jr) into Bangura's spot. The Cologne, Germany native appeared in all 13 games last year, contributing 585 yards and eight touchdowns. Transferr Victor Rosa is another option. He appeared in 13 games, recording 30 rushes for a total of 155 yards and two TDs. 
•  Chase Henry (Second Team All-MAC) led Ohio receivers in 2025, registering 71 catches for 1,035 yards with seven touchdowns. He, along with the 'Cat's next three most productive receiving contributors have departed. Dom Dowart (11 catches, 119 yards) is among a group that will try to keep the passing game threat in the mix.
•  A trademark of Ohio football in recent times has been strong -- and often excellent -- offensive line work. The O-line has consistently supported a very strong running game, as well as pass game opportunities. With all five starters from last year gone, considerable offseason effort went into recruiting the portal. "That offensive line is going to be key," Hauser said. 
PictureDJ WALKER
DEFENSE: 
•  Kurt Mattix is back on the coaching staff, taking over as defensive coordinator in his second stint at Ohio. He served as Pass Rush Specialist and Defensive Ends Coach during Ohio's 2024 MAC championship season. He was Co-Defensive Coordinator and Defensive Line Coach for Charlotte last year. 
•  There is more program experience on the defensive side, with five starters returning. Three are at linebacker where seniors Jack Fries and Michael Molnar join sophomore Charlie Christopher to form a solid core. The trio combined for 179 hits in 2025. 
•  Seniors Nehemiah Dukes, Tyler Gillison, Nathan Hale and Derek Reagans , along with juniors Austin Mitchell and Joseph Marsh are part of the solid rotation up front. If that unit can gel by MAC play, the 'Cats defense could raise the bar again. It was No. 1 among MAC teams in scoring (18.1 ppg) and No. 2 in total defense (304.6 ypg) over the 2024 campaign. 
•  Junior safety DJ Walker recorded 61 hits and two interceptions last year. He is a key piece in a secondary and should be ready after some offseason surgery. "Having DJ back in the secondary is big. He's the quarterback back there," Hauser said. 
Walker will be surrounded in the secondary by some new faces, including transfer help. 

SPECIAL TEAMS: 
•  Brock Peacock saw action last year, converting 16 of 18 PATs and three of six field goals, with a long of 44 yards. Mangus Haines, meanwhile, attempted 40 punts, averaging a nice 42.3 yards per boot. 
FINAL THOUGHTS: 
Apparently, sixteen years of Frank Solich goes a long way. The Bobcats have a winning culture that has carried them through some bumps in the road. To be sure, Ohio has some major holes to fill. Parker and Bangura were a scourge to many MAC opponents. Can their replacements thrive behind a "new" offensive line? What about all the new faces at wide receiver and on defense? 
"It's been a great offseason. (We) have a great group of transfers ... and a great group of returners." 
Ohio opens at Nebraska Sept. 5, but the schedule is very manageable after that. For his part, Hauser knows it comes down to execution and consistency. "We had a couple games where we just had a couple lapses (last year)," Hauser recalled. Indeed, a 20-14 mid-season loss at Ball State proved decimating. 
The two toughest conference matchups are likely rival Miami (Nov. 10 in Oxford) and Toledo (Nov. 27 at Athens). In between those two games, the 'Cats host Ball State. 
Ohio is riding seven straight bowl win, Getting to another bowl seems likely. The question in 'Cats country is: Can Ohio get back to the championship game?
]]><![CDATA[MAC FOOTBALL]]>Mon, 03 Aug 2026 20:27:39 GMThttps://www.macreporteronline.com/blog/mac-football1976771'Cool Mix" of talent and transfers buoys CMU outlook Picture
SEASON PREVIEW: CENTRAL MICHIGAN 
RECORD: 7-6 (5-3 MAC)
2026 HEAD COACHES POLL: 5th of 13 Teams
MRO STAFF 
Head Coach Matt Drinkel's Chippewas made a five-win jump in his first year at the helm and CMU could flirt with another (even better??) run in 2026. The offensive side owns more experience this time around. However, Drinkel feels good about incoming talent, especially on defense. It's a "cool mix of young talented guys ... and transfers," he observed during MAC Media Day. 

Click Read More to continue . . . 
OFFENSE: 
•  Driskall indicated the team's offensive plans were "incredibly conservative" in his first year at the helm. Now, "You're going to see us really start to bloom to what we're going to look like long term." 
•  The Chippewas must replace Joe Labas at quarterback. While he was seventh among MAC passers in yardage, Labas ranked No. 1 in completion percentage (70.7%) and pass efficiency. Fortunately, some replacement options come from the Chippewas own system. Senior Angel Flores returns after seeing action in nine games last year. He averaged 4.9 ypc when running the ball and was the team's leading rusher before an injury late in the campaign. His eight TDs was nearly half of CMU's 17 ground scores. As a passer, he completed 19-of-28 attempts (67.9%), good for 195 yards with two TDs and one interception.
Meanwhile, Plan 1-B can be Jadyn Glasser for more of a passing focus. He played in two games last year before an injury ended his 2025 journey. 
Drinkel called the duo a plus for depth and indicated both would be seeing action. 
•  Langston Lewis gives the Chippewas a proven performer at wideout. He led the team with 43 catches for 596 yards and three TDs last year. His long of 77 yards shows the fifth year player is good for some explosive plays. Sophomore Nasir Williams saw limited action last season and should see a bigger role in 2026.
•  Running back Vaughn Blue, a native of Mount Pleasant South Carolina, will now be playing his home games in Mount Pleasant, Michigan. He spent the previous three years at Liberty, where he totaled 557 yards on 101 carries and recorded 19 receptions for 188 yards with two scores over three campaigns.
•  A plus for everybody is the offensive line. Jacob Russell, Matthew Nehr and Martin Koivisto are returning starters for a unit with depth and experience. 
DEFENSE: 
•  Former tight end JJ Douglas is an athletic player who is expected to join the Chippewas D-line. Korver Demma and Quavion Bird are returning starters for that unit. 
•  It's a rebuilding year at linebacker. Sophomore Victor Earl and junior Xavier White did see some action in 2025. 
•  Jaion Jackson has logged 22 starts as a Chippewa. His 45 tackles last year included two sacks. He also had an interception. The other corner and safety spots will be sorted out in fall camp. 

SPECIAL TEAMS: 
•  Cade Graham, who earned Third Team All-MAC honors last year, is gone, so sophomore Caden VanHuis will handle kicking durtes. Declan Duley returns at punter after averaging 41.1 yards in 2025. 
FINAL THOUGHTS: 
A deeper and more experienced line should help the offensive transition at key skilled positions. Look for the Chippewas to lean on the run game -- one way or another. "We're going to run our quarterbacks," Driskall noted.
It will be a little more interesting to see how CMU handles the changes on defense, where there are the most "unknowns" heading into fall camp. "We lost some really productive players."
The Chippewas open at New Mexico, followed by home contests against Colgate and Wyoming. So, there are some opportunities for a pretty good start. After visiting Miami of Florida, CMU faces Akron, (at) Ohio, Western Michigan and Miami (OH). The latter two are part of four straight home tilts. 
With MAC newbie Sacramento State and Ball State (away) among the final three games, the Chippewas should have a good shot at solidifying a bowl bid. 
"I love our schedule," Driskall said. 
MAC coaches ranked Central Michigan at No. 5 in their preseason poll. If some transfers work out, the Chippewas might even take a run at a MAC title game spot.
"The staff has done a great job of recruiting to fit," Driskall said. 
]]><![CDATA[MAC FOOTBALL]]>Sun, 02 Aug 2026 23:47:40 GMThttps://www.macreporteronline.com/blog/mac-football6779628How far can schedule, transfers power Minutemen?
Injuries added to problems in winless 2025 
Picture
​MRO STAFF 
After going winless in 2025, UMass is focused on collecting some 'W's this year. With a favorable schedule and bevy of transfers, the Minutemen have reason for optimism, even if MAC coaches ranked them last in the 2026 preseason poll. 
This is year two for . . . 
. . . head coach Joe Harasymiak, who once-upon-a-time (like 2018) earned FCS National Coach of the Year honors while at Maine. Naturally, getting more talent on the field is a key component for more production, and the UMass staff has added some nice pieces. 
"Roster turnover was huge for us. ... We've got a lot of guys ... that played a lot of snaps for us  ... and we had a great transfer class" -  ​​Head Coach Joe Harasymiak
PictureWILLIAM WATSON III
OFFENSE: 
•  After finishing last in the nation in scoring (11.1 ppg) and total offense (247.5 ypg) in 2025, the Minutemen need a big boost. Enter William Watson III, a Springfield, Massachusetts native who spent the last three seasons at Virginia Tech. He saw action in 11 games, completing 36-of-63 attempts for 558 yards with one touchdown. 
•  The receiving corps should be bouyed by the return of T.Y. Harding and Joseph Griffin Jr. Harding missed UMass' final nine games of 2025. Griffin spent two years at Boston College and a season with Wisconsin. The two were teammates back in high school (Springfield Central).
Seniors Max Dowling and Reece Adkins are back, giving UMass depth at tight end -- a position that could see more targets going forward.
•  There's new blood at running back where Jordan Washington (6-1, 215) enters after two campaigns with Murray State. He recorded 86 carries for 340 yards and three rushing TDs last year. Washington added another 68 yards  (1 TD) on 22 catches. 
•  Pass or run, the Minutemen need more from the O-line. There are, however, many questions to be answered there. Greg Knox got four starts in 2025, while tackle Zachary Franks (6-6, 310) missed last year (injury), but previously saw action at Northwestern.
DEFENSE: 
•  Harasymiak's defensive strengths were on display early in his career, and his Maine team ran what became known as the "Black Hole Defense." After finishing last among MAC teams in total defense, the term might have had more negative connotations. However, year two in the system offers hope.
Defensive end Joshua Knobles spent three seasons at Western Michigan and 2024 at Jackson State. He then missed 2025 due to injury but could be a key piece for UMass this season. Former four-star recruit DT Andrew DePaepe (Indiana) and brother William DePaepe (Indiana) are a pair of transfers that could bolster the Minutemen up front. 
•  Linebacker Tyler Martin earned Third Team All-MAC honors last year when he recorded 103 tackles. The grad will be joined by Timmy Hinspeter, a former Rutgers player  who counted 69 tackles (17 at Missouri) as a Minuteman in 2025. However, an ankle injury cut his season short.
•  Zeraun Daniel and Kendall Bournes return at safeties. Daniels ranked third among UMass defenders with 75 hits. Bournes added 62 (28 solos) of his own. Isaiah Reed (UCF) and TJ Magee are cornerback pieces. 

SPECIAL TEAMS: 
•  Derek Morris kicked a 55-yard field goal at Akron, but was 10 -of-16 on the year (13-of-15 on PATs). Australian Edward Phillipson will be seeing his first game action as a punter in American football. He played Australian rules football growing up. 
Harding and McGee could help the return efforts. 
FINAL THOUGHTS: 
Some significant injuries contributed to the winless 2025 campaign, and depth could again be an issue even if UMass finds answers at some key starting spots. 
Just given the schedule, there is certainly reason to believe the Minutemen can pick up some wins. After opening at Rutgers, UMass hosts Sacred heart and Stonehill before traveling to MAC newbie Sacramento State. UConn, Ball State, Akron and Bowling Green are second half opponents. Miami (home) and Toledo (away) are a couple of the tougher assignments. 
FULL SCHEDULE HERE
]]><![CDATA[MAC FOOTBALL]]>Sun, 02 Aug 2026 04:41:42 GMThttps://www.macreporteronline.com/blog/mac-football9971050Hornets will need to prove they have potent sting
New Sacramento State HC, leads new MAC team at new level
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SEASON PREVIEW: SACRAMENTO STATE
RECORD:  7-5 (5-3 FCS Big Sky)
2026 HEAD COACHES POLL: 12th of 13 Teams
MRO STAFF 
It came as quite a surprise when Sacramento State joined the Mid-American Conference as a football only member, beginning in 2026. 
With Northern Illinois departing, the conference returned to 12 teams, as it had been before UMass re-entered the fold. So adding Sac State quickly made the MAC a 13-team league once again. 
Ironically, the MAC had previously insisted on full membership with UMass. These times, however,  are certainly different! The Hornets were nonetheless allowed to come in as a football only school.
Suffice it . . . 
. . . to say, there was probably very little appetite for any of the schools to send all sports back-and-forth. That wasn't going to happen. However, Sacramento State was 'uber-anxious" to transition from FCS to FBS status, and joining the MAC was a ticket to entry. 
"We're about proving that we belong in the MAC"
​-- Head Coach Alonzo Carter
OFFENSE: 
•  The Hornets' offense averaged 33.8 ppg and 262.6 rushing yards per game while going 7-5 overall under Head Coach Brennan Marion in 2025. 
He already had a reputation for generating offensive success, and the production in one year at Sacramento State was enough to get Deion Sanders' attention. Marion is now offensive coordinator at Colorado. 
Taking over the Hornets is Alonzo Carter, who has an abundance of experience. He also has deep roots in Northern California and is known as a strong recruiter. He's been a busy man on many fronts. The roster reflects this as transfers seem to be everywhere.
•  One of the new faces is also a familiar one as Carson Conklin returns after a year at Fresno State. Before that, he spent two years at Sac State, earning Freshman All-American honors in his first campagin. Despite moving into a starting role for Fresno State late last year, he elected to rejoin the Hornets in 2026. |"Him coming back means a lot for our program,|" Carter said. 
•  Senior tight end Jordan Williams is one of few returning starters. Wideout Onterio Smith does have some previous experience with the Hornets, and Matt Coleman (San Diego State) is one of many transfers.
•  Jamar Curtis and Curron Borders should be solid weapons for the running game. The former earned FCS All-American honors at Lafayette before transferring to Sacramento State. Unfortunately, he was injured most of last year, but his previous production suggests he can be a solid contributor  in 2026. 
•  The offensive line is a big question mark, but Bryson Summers and Jeremiah Stallworth return. 
DEFENSE: 
• The Hornets could run with a 3-3-5 defensive scheme -- or some version of that as there is built in flexibility.
The strong points will likely be among linebackers as Alex Rocha and Fata Puloka return after combining for 92 tackles (43 solos) last year. Both fought through injuries in 2025. 
•  Senior defensive end Xavier Williams is back to anchor the front. Fall camp will help sort out the D-line rotation, but Wisconsin transfer DL Jamel Howard is another key piece. 
•  Transfers Boogy Sanders (USF) and Amari Wallace (Miami, Fl) are among the candidates in the secondary. 

SPECIAL TEAMS: 
•  Junior Grant Meadors is back at kicker. He led the Hornets in scoring with 87 points last year, converting 12-of-15 field goal tries (and 51-of-53 PATs) along the way. His long was a 42-yarder. 
Transfer Jake Brockhaus will handle punting duties. 
FINAL THOUGHTS: 
The Hornets filled their roster with transfers, many of which came before Sac State was accepted into the MAC. It remains to be seen how much the FBS carrot can help, but there will be plenty of eyes on the Hornets when they open at Eastern Michigan Aug. 29. There are some tough matchups as Sac State hosts Ohio and Toledo. Some of the away games are more favorable opportunties. In any case, all opponents will be scrutinizing tape to get a better idea of an unfamiliar foe. 
MAC coaches were skeptical, ranking Sacramento State 12th of 13 teams in the preseason poll. 
]]><![CDATA[MAC FOOTBALL]]>Fri, 31 Jul 2026 04:01:55 GMThttps://www.macreporteronline.com/blog/mac-football7040271Cardinals need better numbers for better record Picture
SEASON PREVIEW: BALL STATE
RECORD:  4-8 (3-5 MAC)
2026 HEAD COACHES POLL: 11th of 13 Teams

MRO STAFF 
Mike Uremofich's first year at the helm of Ball State football produced four wins -- three in the MAC. BSU scored an average of just 15.8 ppg. Only winless UMass (11.1 ppg) scored less points. Defense also had its troubles, with the Cardinals surrendering 29.8 ppg (11th among 13 MAC teams). 
Suffice it . . . 
. . . to say, BSU will need to improve in several areas to reach .500. That improvement must come as it replaces QB1 Kiael Kelly. Last year's rushing leader (600 yards, 5 TDs) also passed for  1,583 yards with 11 TDs and eight interceptions. 
With Kelly, the Cardinals finished 11th in passing offense and 10th in rushing. Who will lead the way forward?
OFFENSE: 
•  Keldric Luster (SMU, Texas State) may get the call. He is actually the second QB to transfer from Texas State to Ball State in the past three years. He has seen limited action. However, the 5-10, 248-pound junior is considered a dual threat -- something that might make him a good fit for BSU's offense. Tyler Mizzell, meanwhile, started his collegiate career at Wake Forest before transfering to Division II Concord. At the latter, he threw for 2,889 yards and 26 touchdowns while earning second-team all-Mountain East Conference honors. 
"I like the two guys a lot." Uremovich said. "They both throw it very well."
•  Sophomore Donovan Hamilton returns at wide receiver, although he totaled a modest 20 catches for 244 yards. 
No Cardinal receiver recorded more than two TDs last year, so whether it is Hamilton or one of the incoming transfers, BSU is looking for more than 12 scores from the passing game. Spring suggested the Cardinals may be improved on speed. 
•  Ball State's top two runners (Kelly and Qua Ashley) are gone, but junior TJ Horton (60 carries, 180 yards) returns, along with Jalen Bonds (27 carries, 77 yards, 1 TD).
•  A big plus for the offense is the O-line where Chris Hood, Cole Mosier and Tristan Cook return. 
DEFENSE: 
• It's a different story on the D-line where transfers are moving into open spots. Among them is Jared Badie (San Diego State). 
•  BSU will miss linebacker Nathan Voorhis, who recorded 17 TFLs and 12 sacks last year. Seniors Gavin Forsha and Cincear Lewis are among the candidates for Ball State's second level on defense. 
•  The back end should be BSU's defensive strength. Corner Willizhuan Yates has two years of starting experience. DJ Fields and Deondre Shepherd also return on the back end, while incoming safety Sterling Smith remains in-state after transferring in from Purdue. 

SPECIAL TEAMS: 
•  Senior Carson Holmer attempted just seven field goals in 2025, converting three with a long of 23 yards. R-So. Cole Stumbaugh will be moving into the punter spot. 
FINAL THOUGHTS: 
There are questions aplenty on both sides of the ball, and MAC coaches ranked Ball State 11th in the preseason poll. That puts the Cardinals in front of newcoming Sacremento State and 2025 winless UMass. 
There could be real trouble if BSU gets banged up in non-conference play. The Cardinals open at Ohio State and must also visit Liberty and Northwestern. The only home game in the first four weeks is Sept. 12 against Stony Brook. 
BSU opens MAC play at Kent State before hosting Toledo. Sacramento State and (at) UMass are probably "must wins". Ohio will be looking to avenge the Cardinals upset victory in Muncie last year, and Central Michigan is considered a darkhorse MAC contender. Ball State misses Miami for the first time in a while. 
]]><![CDATA[MAC FOOTBALL]]>Thu, 30 Jul 2026 02:25:00 GMThttps://www.macreporteronline.com/blog/mac-football4255416QB, O-line among questions for Falcons  Picture
SEASON PREVIEW: BOWLING GREEN
2025 RECORD:  4-8 (2-6 MAC)
2026 HEAD COACHES POLL: 8th of 13 teams

MRO STAFF 
The hiring of Eddie George as Bowling Green's 21st head football coach was quite a splash. Time will tell, of course, how successful the Falcons will be under George. One short term issue, however, likely figured into last season's sub-.500 record. The hire came in March, well past when most new head coaches join their new program. From Day-One then, George -- and the program -- were playing catchup. George had to quickly assemble a staff, which put together new schemes for players -- new and returning -- to absorb. 
The Falcons . . . 
. . . did manage to win three of their first six games, and BGSU closed its first half with a 28-23 win over rival Toledo. However, five straight losses followed before Bowling Green closed with a lopsided victory over winless UMass.
"I got here late last year and tried to play catchup," George said. "I feel good about the progress ... (and) we were able to build a foundation."
Joe Bowden (linebackers coach in 2025) moves up to defensive coordinator. Greg Nosal (co-offensive coordinator at BGSU from 2022-2025) is now sole offensive coordinator. 
With staff tweaks and more system familiarity, the Falcons are likely already in a "better place." Still, they have a lot of questions on the roster. Hence, the MAC Coaches Preseason Poll ranked Bowling Green as eighth. 
OFFENSE: 
•  The Falcons finished 10th among MAC teams in scoring (20.5 ppg) and ninth in total offense (306.8 ppg). 
•  The passing game struggled in 2025. Not only did BGSU rank 10th in passing offense, QB1 Drew Pyne recorded just four towndowns while tossing five interceptions.
•  Eventually, four different quarterbacks threw at least 22 passes, combining for 12 touchdowns and 12 picks. Falcon receivers averaged 6.3 ypc. 
•  Pyne is gone, but BGSU has several options who could boost the offense. Austin Novosad is a former four-star quarterback transfer from Oregon. However, he lacks significant game experience. Junior transfer Jay Kastantin has more experience. However, it was at Division II Assumption. Hunter Najm notched several starts for the Orange and White last year, completing 33 of 66 attempts with five TDs and four interceptions. The battle for QB1 should continue into (at least) fall camp.
•  Brennan Ridley and Winn Sharp chipped in last year, but there are many questions as to targets among wideout candidates. 
In recent years, the Falcons have leaned on tight ends for production, and former TE Jyrin Johnson led BGSU with 37 catches for 466 yards and two TDs, gaining All-MAC First Team honors in his final season. Jeremiah Scoby and senior Blane Cleaver are among candidates to step into the tight end role. 
•  BGSU averaged 155.5 ypg on offense (6th MAC) in 2025.  Returning Austyn Dendy led Falcon runners with 493 yards and five touchdowns. 
•  Run or pass, the Falcons need to find answers along an offensive line that lost five starters. James Thomas Jr. and Alexis Sanchez saw some action last year. 
PictureKAI-EL PASCAL
DEFENSE: 
•  The Falcons were seventh in scoring defense (24.3 ppg) and fourth in total defense (343.4 ypg) last year. Even with significant departures, pressing a panic button shouldn't be necessary. DT Myles Bradley and DE Eriq George proved adept at pressure, combining for nine sacks. Selah Brown, a defensive tackles out of Louisville, could be a very nice addition. 
•  Dorian Pringle had a solid start to 2025, but injury shelved him after three games. He has drawn several 2026 preseason All-MAC projections and is expected to be a key element in the second level. Purdue transfer Sanders Ellis and Cashmire Ellis are among other possible fits on the LB depth chart. 
•  The secondary could be an area of strength. Safety Kai-El Pascal finished second on the team in tackles. His 80 hits included 37 solo stops. Corner JoJo Johnson recorded a MAC-best 13 pass breakups. Armhan Hale (most recently from New Mexico State) is an experienced addition to the squad. 

SPECIAL TEAMS: 
•  All-MAC kicker Zach Long (19 of 22 FB, long of 56 yards) and punter John Henderson are gone. Travis Kenner, who kicked one PAT last year, should replace Long. Senior Ryan Kingston (previously Southeast Missouri State) will move into the punter role. 
FINAL THOUGHTS: 
There is certainly value in the staff having a full offseason to prepare the 2026 Falcons. There is also talent among the incoming transfers, but it will be important to find a quarterback that will help get the offense untracked. 
Reworking the offensive line is another key -- both for passing and running the football. BGSU also needs production out of new featured receivers. 
There seem to be more answers on the defensive side, but special teams is turning over both specialists. 
]]><![CDATA[MAC FOOTBALL]]>Mon, 27 Jul 2026 21:53:38 GMThttps://www.macreporteronline.com/blog/mac-football1092192DeShields leads the quest for bowl eligibility Picture
SEASON PREVIEW: KENT STATE
RECORD:  5-7 (4-4 MAC)
2026 HEAD COACHES POLL: 8th of 13 Teams

MRO STAFF 
Not that long ago, Kent State figured at or near the absolute bottom of MAC preseason polls. That was then, and this is now. 
The MAC coaches recently ranked KSU eighth, and while that may not seem particularly optimistic, it nonetheless reflects improvement under Head Coach Mark Carney. 
Kent State went . . . 
OFFENSE: 
•  Last year, DeShields completed 56.7 percent of his pass attempts, good for 2,030 yards with 18 touchdowns. His three interceptions mark tied for second lowest among MAC quarterbacks, and he ranked second in passing efficiency. 
•  KSU's top two receivers, who contributed 11 TDs, are gone. Wayne Harris (5-9, 165 R-So) was third, registering 35 catches for 383 yards and one TD. Wideout Da'Realyst Clark, who was MAC Special Teams Player of the Year in 2025, will try to bring some big plays into the Flashes three-down offense. Meanwhile, tight end Terik Mulder played in 10 games last year, totaling 19 receptions with four TDs. 
•  The Flashes ranked 12 among 13 MAC teams in rushing during 2025. Improving on that 97.3 ypg mark would be helpful in any quest to reach bowl eligibility. Among the candidates at running back is Cincinnati sophomore transfer Jakorion Carey, albeit he has very limited game experience. Senior Mason King is a transfer from FCS Illinois State. 
•  Tyler Meadows, a 6-8, 340-pound sophomore, and Dustyn Morrell (6-4, 290, Sr) are back up front. 
DEFENSE: 
•  Kent State surrendered 427.4 yards and 33.6 points per game in 2025. Both marks ranked 11th among MAC teams.
•  Defensive tackles Thomas Aden (Sr) and Josue Cordoba (So) return along the defensive line. They'll be flanked by sophomore defensive ends Jailien Roy and Antonio Bottigi. Semaj Bridgeman is a versatile piece from Michigan State. 
•  Former Flash linebacker Rocco Nicholl has returned (from USF). Hayden Dawahare and Trey Rubinstein are also in the linebacker mix.
•  Derrick Jackson III and Joel Cordoba return at safety, while redshirt senior A'tiz Muhammed played in nine games at corner last year. 

SPECIAL TEAMS: 
•  There is not a lot of experience among the specialists. Sean Leonard is a freshman kicker. Punter Jake Stoeckel averaged 31.4 yards on nine boots last year. 
FINAL THOUGHTS: 
Kent State has reclaimed a competitive edge under Carney. Deshields is the cornerstone for this year's group. Reaching bowl eligibility is a realistic goal, but the numbers need to improve on both offense and defense. Staying relatively healthy in key spots is also important.
Trips to South Carolina and Ohio State are part of the first three weeks. KSU opens MAC play Sept. 26 when it hosts Ball State. However, the Flashes then host Ohio and visit Western Michigan before a mid-season non-conference final at South Florida.
The Wagon Wheel battle is set for Oct. 24 (in Kent). KSU hosts Miami Nov. 17 for the Flashes home finale. 
]]><![CDATA[MAC FOOTBALL]]>Mon, 27 Jul 2026 00:29:11 GMThttps://www.macreporteronline.com/blog/mac-football1394033Bulls have some big shoes to fill Picture
SEASON PREVIEW: BUFFALO
RECORD:  5-7 (4-4 MAC)
2026 HEAD COACHES POLL: 6th of 13

MRO STAFF 
Head Coach Pete Lembo is back, but the Bulls are breaking in a couple of new coordinators this year. Add that to significant player turnover and its enough to raise some questions -- even for a talented group. The MAC Coaches . . . 
PictureTERRENCE SHELTON JR.
. . . preseason poll ranked UB sixth, which seems fairly consistent with other preseason predictions. After winning three of their first four MAC games last year, the Bulls went 1-4 down the stretch to miss bowl eligibility by one win. 

OFFENSE: 
•  With two returning starters on offense, there is work to be done through fall camp and non-conference play. 
•  Ta'Quan Roberson is gone. Jason Wright is considered a dual-threat quarterback, but the 6-2, 200-pound redshirt freshman saw very limited action in 2025. 
•  UB's top two receivers (both All-MAC) from last year are gone, leaving grad Jasaiah Gathings as the top wideout returnee. He was third among Bulls with 36 catches for 410 yards and three TDs. Chance Morrow (8 catches, 129 yards, 2 TDs) and Patrik Clacks III (11 catches, 71 yards, 2 TDs) also contributed in 2025 and are back for 2026. Spring ball suggested some newcomers may also step up in UB's aerial game.
•  Al-Jay Henderson carried the load, rushing 182 times for 755 yards and six scores last year. While he is gone, Terrence Shelton Jr. returns after logging 57 rushes for 244 yards (4.3 ypc) (1 TD). Messiah Burch has the potential to contribute some explosive plays along the way. 
•  The Bulls slipped to 11th among MAC teams in rushing (averaging 131.0 ypg). While the run has typically been a UB staple, only one starter (guard Alex Henniger) returns along the O-line. 
DEFENSE: 
•  As with the offense, the defensive line is also going through something of a rebuild. Senior Cornell Evans returns at defensive tackle and Will Clark should be stepping into a bigger role this year. Logan Goodwin and Sedrick Vessah are among incoming defensive replacement candidates. Both were all-league at previous stops. 
•  Arguably the biggest loss on UB's roster is standout linebacker Red Murdock, who was among NCAA stat leaders over his final two years as a Bull. He registered 142 tackles (53 solo), 5 sacks and 6 forced fumbles last year. Denver selected Murdock with the final pick of this year's NFL draft. 
Linebacker has been the Bulls' defensive strong point, going back to Khalil Mack. That group, however, may need some work in 2026. Instead, the secondary has enough returnees and new help to figure as a key. Corners Kobi Blackwell and Keontez Bradley combined for 13 starts. Nickel back SaVeon Brown recorded eight starts (52 tackles, 2 sacks). After finishing 2025 ranked No. 23 nationally in pass defense, a strong back line should help UB's pass defense ranking once again. 
SPECIAL TEAMS: 
•  Freshman kicker Oliver Hautanen replaces Jack Howes. Sophomore Ethan Stumpf will see his first action as a UB punter unless transfer Andrew VanSlyke (James Madison) moves into the position. 

FINAL THOUGHTS: 
Lembo is well-respected as a head coach and will get the Bulls pointed in the right direction. However, with new coordinators, the loss of several big contributors and an influx of transfers, Buffalo has a lot of work to do. Fortunately, the schedule is somewhat favorable. 
The Bulls host Albany and Robert Morris, while visiting Florida International and Penn State in non-conference play. Two tough MAC tests-- defending champ Western Michigan and (at) Toledo follow before some easier challenges. A Nov. 3 game at Miami is probably Buffalo's toughest matchup down the stretch. 
]]><![CDATA[MAC FOOTBALL]]>Sun, 26 Jul 2026 18:34:13 GMThttps://www.macreporteronline.com/blog/mac-football1965110Kim-led offense makes Eagles a dangerous foe Picture
MRO STAFF 
Eastern Michigan finished 2025 by winning two of its last three games, with the lone loss coming to eventual MAC champion Western Michigan.
There is reason for optimism this year as the Eagles' offense returns some key weapons. What team . . . 
. . .  wouldn't like to have the league's top passer back at the helm?  

OFFENSE: 
•  Noah Kim completed 61.4 percent of his attempts while passing for 2,817 yards in 2025. That allowed Eastern Michigan to finish second among MAC teams in passing (234.8 ypg). This is Kim's fifth year overall and second as an EMU starter.
In addition to 18 passing TDs, the senior ran for a team-high six rushing scores.
•  Grad wideout Nick Devereaux returns after leading Eagle receivers with 510 yards (34 catches, 7 TDs) last year and should again be in the mix for all-MAC honors. Harold Mack recorded 20 catches for 333 yards and two TDs, while tight end Joshua Long (37 catches, 357 yards, 3 TDs) gives Kim another familiar target. 
•  Transfer Braydon Bennett (Virginia Tech) rushed for almost 2,000 yards two years ago at Coastal Carolina. 
•  Portal losses have created some questions (starting and/or depth) along the offensive line. However, seniors Joshua Anderson and Nicholas Gallegos are back.
PictureBRYCE LLEWELLYN
DEFENSE: 
•  The Eagles have four returning starters on the defensive side. Senior Carter Evans is at one defensive end and anchors a line that brings in several new faces. NT Jefferson Allen is back after injury cost him the 2025 campaign. 
•  Linebacker Barry Manning was second among EMU tacklers with 74 stops (30 solo). Meanwhile, leading tackler Bryce Llewellyn (102 tackles, 2 INT) and safety Juan Salas are back. DB Caleb Coley transferred in from Michigan State. The secondary has enough depth/talent to be a strength for the defensive side. 

SPECIAL TEAMS: 
•  Rudy Kessinger connected on 17-of-23 field goals in 2025, during which he was a MAC Special Teams Player of the Week twice. His career-best is 50 yards (vs. Kentucky). Fellow junior Daniel Hull will likely handle punt duties. 
FINAL THOUGHTS: 
Overall, MAC coaches see Eastern Michigan finishing in the middle of the pack. If the line gels, EMU's offense could certainly be in the upper half. The defense is more of a question, but it could be a key on getting back to bowl eligibility.
Road games at Michigan State and Wisconsin will be tough contests, but the Eagles get San Jose State at home. That comes after an Aug. 29 opener against MAC newcomer Sacramento State in Ypsilanti. 
The toughest part of EMU's MAC schedule begins Oct. 17 when Toledo visits. The Eagles then visit Ohio, host Central Michigan and travel to defending champion Western Michigan.
]]><![CDATA[MAC FOOTBALL PREVIEW]]>Sun, 26 Jul 2026 01:05:50 GMThttps://www.macreporteronline.com/blog/mac-football-preview7562620Gant returns, but Zips will need transfer production Picture
SEASON PREVIEW FOR: AKRON ZIPS
2025 RECORD: 5-7 (4-4 MAC)
2026 MAC HEAD COACHES PRESEASON POLL: 10TH
MRO STAFF 
The 2025 season was something of a roller coaster ride for Akron football. One week the Zips are blowing out Duquesne 51-7 and the next they are opening Mid-American Conference play with a 45-3 loss at Toledo. 
That said, Head Coach Joe Moorhead's crew finished strong, winning three of the final four games. The only loss, however, was a 42-35 home setback against Kent State in the annual Wagon Wheel rivalry game. 
That loss . . .
​. . . kept UA (5-7) from finishing 6-6, but the program was not eligible for bowl participation anyway (due to NCAA sanctions for poor Academic Progress Rate scores). With a waiver this year, Akron can now shoot for its first bowl since 2017. 

OFFENSE: 
•  Moorhead's resume includes notable success on the offensive side, and UA showed some signs of offensive progress in 2025. In MAC only, stats, Akron ranked sixth in total offense (361.0 ypg). It was ninth in rushing (124.0 ypg) and third (237.0 ypg) in passing. 
•  QB Ben Finley is gone after two seasons under center, so a key task will be to sort out the quarterback position.  Grad Reese Poffenbager is a well-traveled option whose previous stops were Miami (Fla), North Texas and Albany. 
"He’s got a lot of stickers on his suitcase," Moorhead said. "It was a very competitive spring, but at the end of the day, Reese has experience in a bunch of different programs, a lot of talent and a high IQ. … Heading into camp, Reese (leads the QB competition). 
Sophomore Brayden Roggow is one option, but he saw limited action last year.
•  By contrast, the running back room offers more experience in the UA system, with Jordan Gant (Second Team All-MAC) returning after rushing for 1,321 yards (6 rushing TDs) last year. "I think that’s the type of rushing offensive production that I am accustomed to and we need to continue," Moorhead said.
•  Just how well Gant and the run game will fare remains to be seen, given serious losses along the O-line. Four players left for other programs. Still, center Colin Lyons and tackle Allen Jones Jr. are back to anchor a group up upper class players with some experience. 
•  A pair of sophomores were key contributors at wide receiver last year. Marcell Williams led UA with 45 catches for 641 yards (2 TDs) and earned Second Team All-MAC honors. "He's very strong as a route runner (and has ) strong hands. We love him in one-on-one matchups," Moorhead said. "I really think from what we’ve seen in the spring and so far this summer, he’s going to take another nice jump forward.
Kyan Mason recorded 33 receptions totaling 481 yards (5 TDs). However, Israel Polk, a 2025 second team All-MAC selection, is now at Oklahoma State. 
Tight end Wyatt Hook is coming in from Michigan State. 
DEFENSE: 
•  Cyrus Durham (31 tackles, 8.5 tfl, 3.0 sacks) and Ronald Hull return to anchor the defensive line. However, the Zips had massive turnover at linebacker. There will also be new faces in the mix of secondary talent. Corner Alex Branch returns, along with Terence Thomas and Catrell White. Senior Daymon David (medical redshirt in 2025) was a former Oregon Duck ('22 and '23) and sophomore Rodrick Hunter (11 games, 4 starts in 2025) could get the starting safety spots. 

SPECIAL TEAMS: 
Kicker/Punter Owen Wiley is now at Southeastern Louisiana. Sophomore Matthew Schram (kicker) and senior Joseph Castle (punter) figure to take over. 
FINAL THOUGHTS: 
Among UA's biggest challenges, according to Morehead, is integrating transfers and less experienced players to the lineup -- and depth for starters, as well. 
There is potential on offense -- IF -- the line can provide opportunities. Defensively, there are question marks in lots of places.
Akron opens the year Sept. 3 at Wake Forest. After hosting Robert Morris, the Zips visit Minnesota and wrap up non-conference play at home against UNLV. 
The MAC schedule includes a four-week run against Miami, Kent State (both away), Ohio and Western Michigan (both at home).
Reaching six wins should still be a goal, but it will be a challenge. The preseason MAC head coaches ranked Akron 10th.
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