This time, Tirrell Rennie will be up to speed.
Northern Iowa’s quarterback felt harried and hurried last September during his visit to Jake Trice Stadium, completing six of 13 passes — and throwing two interceptions, including one that was returned for a touchdown — as Iowa State rolled to a 27-0 football victory.
“That game was in more than hyper drive,” Rennie said. “It was too fast.”
The Cyclones expect to face a more poised passer when Rennie returns Saturday for a season-opening matchup of in-state rivals.
“If your program is doing what it should be, those guys should be better the following year,” Iowa State coach Paul Rhoads said. “And (Rennie) certainly will be. They’ve got a veteran team. They’re an explosive, scary, talented, outstanding football program.”
Rennie is among eight returning starters for the Panthers’ offense, which features some of the top playmakers in the Missouri Valley Football Conference.
“They’ve got really good, quick, fast receivers,” Cyclone cornerback Leonard Johnson said. “They’re a little under-sized, but the speed makes up for it. Those guys are all-around good athletes.”
Iowa State, meanwhile, boasts several key veterans from a defense that forced five Northern Iowa turnovers and left Rennie reeling.
“We were charting our team the other day and talking about ‘Are we better at this position, are we better at that position?’ ” Rhoads said. “And we are at a number of spots, because we’ve got returning starters.”
Jeremy Reeves, A.J. Klein and Jake Knott — all returning starters — each intercepted a pass against the Panthers while helping Iowa State secure its first shutout in six years.
“Coach Rhoads did a phenomenal job of coaching those guys up,” Rennie said. “I give all kudos to him.
“I’m going to be glad to play these guys, just as they’re going to be glad to play us.”
Rennie rebounded for a breakout season.
He became the first quarterback in Northern Iowa history to gain more than 1,000 yards passing and running, earning second-team, all-Valley honors.
“After that game, all we said as a team, we can’t have another instance like that,” Rennie recalled. “So we went off from that and did pretty good.”
Now, the Panthers return to Ames with a chance to make amends.
“There is a part of me that wants to go out there and show them I’m more improved,” Rennie said. “Our offense is better. Our defense is better. And I’m pretty sure they (the Cyclones) are better than they were last year.”
Rennie, an all-American for Ellsworth Community College, has a better grasp on the playbook.
"He's much more stable," Northern Iowa coach Mark Farley said, "just because he knows our system. Our system takes time to learn, so we're excited to see what comes."
Rennie averaged 5.6 yards per rush as a junior, scoring 15 touchdowns. If he improves his 56.2 completion percentage (with eight touchdowns and 11 interceptions), it’s the Cyclones who could be playing catch up.
“I hold no personal grudges against them,” Rennie said. “All I want them to do is come out and give us their best effort, because we will come out and give them our best effort.”
In the Beginning
Monday, August 29, 2011
#5 Northern Iowa FCS Football Preview
Northern Iowa Panthers
Overall Rank: #5
#1 Missouri Valley
Northern Iowa Team Page
2010 Record: (7-5, 6-2)
2010 Postseason: FCS Playoffs
Coach: Mark Farley (89-37 at Northern Iowa, 89-37 overall)
Returning Leaders:
Rushing: Tirrell Rennie, QB, 1,291 yards
Passing: Tirrell Rennie, QB, 1,526 yards
Receiving: Jarred Herring, WR, 549 yards
Tackles: L.J. Fort, LB, 92
Sacks: Ben Boothby, DT, 9.5
Interceptions: Andre Martin, S, 5
Northern Iowa did not end the 2010 season on a high note. They lost the regular season finale to Western Illinois by two touchdowns and needed to turn things around quickly before Lehigh came to Cedar Falls for the first round of the playoffs. The Panthers offense was stagnant much of the day and UNI lost 14-7 to Lehigh. Those back-to-back losses do not have Coach Mark Farley’s team headed in the right direction, but this is a new year and the Panthers will be ready to compete for another Missouri Valley title.
Strengths:
The defense will be strong again led by a very deep and talented front seven. Defensive tackle Ben Boothby is one of the best in the nation and is coming off of a great season in which he tallied 9.5 sacks and 56 tackles. The only significant loss to the unit is end Henry Obi and he only started three games in 2010. With players like Darren Branch and Will Eilert joining Boothby, this will be one of the toughest defensive lines in the nation. They should again lead the conference in rushing defense and sacks. The linebackers will help in both regards. Jamar Thompson is gone after leading UNI with 99 tackles, but James Conley, L.J. Fort and Jordan Smith are all proven linebackers. The other strength this team has is on the ground on the other side of the line. The Panthers rushed for over 216 yards per game in 2010. Running back Carlos Anderson rushed for 974 yards and two touchdowns, but it was the play of quarterback Tirrell Rennie that really added to the ground game. He became the first UNI quarterback to ever rush for over 1,000 yards. With an experienced offensive line that returns four starters and a couple of other players who earned starts during the season, the ground attack will be very, very dangerous.
Weaknesses:
If Rennie could pass a little more efficiently, the entire offense would be dangerous. He can throw enough to keep the opposing defense honest, but he completed just 56.0 percent of his passes last year and threw 11 interceptions and just eight touchdown passes. Rennie does not need to make the big play, with his arm at least; he needs to run the offense and avoid turnovers. A year in the system should help, but his three interceptions against Lehigh did not help and the opposition will figure out a way to contain him on the ground. Rennie does have some decent receivers available. Jarred Herring led the team with 549 receiving yards and five touchdowns. Josh Collins missed some action last year and should be a quality secondary receiver if he can stay healthy. The pass defense was nearly as ineffective as the pass offense in 2010, ranking 106th in the nation. The good news is just about everybody is back, but that may not be very good news if they cannot improve. For a team that does such a great job getting pressure on the opposing quarterback, there should not be any reason to give up so many yards through the air.
The Bottom Line:
Coach Farley has been very happy with the development of the secondary during the spring and summer, but how well that translates into game situations remains to be seen. There is some good talent out there, most notably safety Andre Martin, who picked off five passes and was third on the team with 77 tackles last year. The pass defense will need to do more this year or Northern Iowa’s 2011 season could end with more disappointment. The offense will be good, but the conference has had a year to learn how to deal with Rennie and he will likely have to throw a little more to keep the opposition off balance. That means the defense will have to play a bigger role if the offense cannot simply run all day long.
Projected Postseason: FCS Playoffs
2010 Team Stats:
Rushing Offense: 216.58 (9th in nation, 1st in conference)
Passing Offense: 165.83 (88, 8)
Total Offense: 382.42 (34, 6)
Scoring Offense: 23.50 (62, 8)
Rushing Defense: 104.42 (10, 1)
Pass Defense: 241.25 (106, 6)
Total Defense: 345.67 (48, 2)
Scoring Defense: 21.08 (30, 2)
Turnover Margin: -.17 (72, 5)
Sacks: 3.08 (7, 1)
Sacks Allowed: 2.83 (102, 9)
Overall Rank: #5
#1 Missouri Valley
Northern Iowa Team Page
2010 Record: (7-5, 6-2)
2010 Postseason: FCS Playoffs
Coach: Mark Farley (89-37 at Northern Iowa, 89-37 overall)
Returning Leaders:
Rushing: Tirrell Rennie, QB, 1,291 yards
Passing: Tirrell Rennie, QB, 1,526 yards
Receiving: Jarred Herring, WR, 549 yards
Tackles: L.J. Fort, LB, 92
Sacks: Ben Boothby, DT, 9.5
Interceptions: Andre Martin, S, 5
Northern Iowa did not end the 2010 season on a high note. They lost the regular season finale to Western Illinois by two touchdowns and needed to turn things around quickly before Lehigh came to Cedar Falls for the first round of the playoffs. The Panthers offense was stagnant much of the day and UNI lost 14-7 to Lehigh. Those back-to-back losses do not have Coach Mark Farley’s team headed in the right direction, but this is a new year and the Panthers will be ready to compete for another Missouri Valley title.
Strengths:
The defense will be strong again led by a very deep and talented front seven. Defensive tackle Ben Boothby is one of the best in the nation and is coming off of a great season in which he tallied 9.5 sacks and 56 tackles. The only significant loss to the unit is end Henry Obi and he only started three games in 2010. With players like Darren Branch and Will Eilert joining Boothby, this will be one of the toughest defensive lines in the nation. They should again lead the conference in rushing defense and sacks. The linebackers will help in both regards. Jamar Thompson is gone after leading UNI with 99 tackles, but James Conley, L.J. Fort and Jordan Smith are all proven linebackers. The other strength this team has is on the ground on the other side of the line. The Panthers rushed for over 216 yards per game in 2010. Running back Carlos Anderson rushed for 974 yards and two touchdowns, but it was the play of quarterback Tirrell Rennie that really added to the ground game. He became the first UNI quarterback to ever rush for over 1,000 yards. With an experienced offensive line that returns four starters and a couple of other players who earned starts during the season, the ground attack will be very, very dangerous.
Weaknesses:
If Rennie could pass a little more efficiently, the entire offense would be dangerous. He can throw enough to keep the opposing defense honest, but he completed just 56.0 percent of his passes last year and threw 11 interceptions and just eight touchdown passes. Rennie does not need to make the big play, with his arm at least; he needs to run the offense and avoid turnovers. A year in the system should help, but his three interceptions against Lehigh did not help and the opposition will figure out a way to contain him on the ground. Rennie does have some decent receivers available. Jarred Herring led the team with 549 receiving yards and five touchdowns. Josh Collins missed some action last year and should be a quality secondary receiver if he can stay healthy. The pass defense was nearly as ineffective as the pass offense in 2010, ranking 106th in the nation. The good news is just about everybody is back, but that may not be very good news if they cannot improve. For a team that does such a great job getting pressure on the opposing quarterback, there should not be any reason to give up so many yards through the air.
The Bottom Line:
Coach Farley has been very happy with the development of the secondary during the spring and summer, but how well that translates into game situations remains to be seen. There is some good talent out there, most notably safety Andre Martin, who picked off five passes and was third on the team with 77 tackles last year. The pass defense will need to do more this year or Northern Iowa’s 2011 season could end with more disappointment. The offense will be good, but the conference has had a year to learn how to deal with Rennie and he will likely have to throw a little more to keep the opposition off balance. That means the defense will have to play a bigger role if the offense cannot simply run all day long.
Projected Postseason: FCS Playoffs
2010 Team Stats:
Rushing Offense: 216.58 (9th in nation, 1st in conference)
Passing Offense: 165.83 (88, 8)
Total Offense: 382.42 (34, 6)
Scoring Offense: 23.50 (62, 8)
Rushing Defense: 104.42 (10, 1)
Pass Defense: 241.25 (106, 6)
Total Defense: 345.67 (48, 2)
Scoring Defense: 21.08 (30, 2)
Turnover Margin: -.17 (72, 5)
Sacks: 3.08 (7, 1)
Sacks Allowed: 2.83 (102, 9)
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
2011 Missouri Valley Preview
The depth of the Missouri Valley Football Conference was summed up best by North Dakota State last season.
At one end of their season, the Bison were one of only seven FCS programs to beat a FBS team last year - the University of Kansas. At the other end, they won two playoff games and seemingly deserved to beat eventual national champion Eastern Washington before falling in overtime of the quarterfinals.
In between, North Dakota State went 4-4 in Missouri Valley games - not great, not bad, just your typical team in the conference.
"We were certainly pleased to be in the playoffs," North Dakota State head coach Craig Bohl said. "Our players recognize what a great experience that was. I think more our players recognize we were 4-4 in the Valley ... the rugged and tough competition that we have in the Missouri Valley."
It may be difficult for this season to be as topsy-turvy as last season was in the conference. Northern Iowa was picked fourth in the 2010 preseason poll and won the title. Western Illinois was picked eighth and finished second. Six - count 'em, six - teams had 4-4 records, and then it dropped off to last-place Youngstown State.
Northern Iowa was a prohibitive favorite in this year's preseason poll, but everybody across the conference believes the ride will be up and down for many teams. The last three preseason favorites have not won the title.
What makes the Missouri Valley especially tough it that teams play well at home. They went a combined 46-11 (.807) last season. Missouri State, picked last in this year's preseason poll, won all five of its home games.
Last year, the conference had three playoff qualifiers - North Dakota State, Northern Iowa and Western Illinois - for the first time since 2006. Ironically, the champion Panthers were the only team not to win a playoff game.
"I know we got picked to win the league," Northern Iowa head coach Mark Farley said, "(but) I just think that our team is in that role of coming from behind (because it lost in the first round of the playoffs). I think we have to fight back from last season. There's some very good teams.
"We're going to have to earn everything that's coming in front of us."
The MVFC will feature terrific running backs and running-style quarterbacks this season. Following is a team-by-team breakdown of the 2011 race.
The Sports Network's predicted order of finish:
1. Northern Iowa
2. North Dakota State
3. Southern Illinois
4. Indiana State
5. Illinois State
6. Youngstown State
7. Western Illinois
8. South Dakota State
9. Missouri State
Offensive Player of the Year: Tirrell Rennie, QB, Northern Iowa
Defensive Player of the Year: Ben Boothby, DT, Northern Iowa
1. NORTHERN IOWA PANTHERS (7-5 overall; 6-2 MVFC)
COACH: Mark Farley (89-39 in 10 seasons at Northern Iowa)
STARTERS RETURNING: 18 (8 offense/10 defense)
OFFENSIVE STAR: QB Tirrell Rennie, Sr. (94 of 168 for 1,526 yards, 8 TDs and 11 INTs; 232 carries, 1,291 yards, 15 TDs)
DEFENSIVE STAR: DT Ben Boothby, Sr. (56 TT, 16 TFL, 9.5 sacks)
OTHER KEY PLAYERS: RB/RS Carlos Anderson, Jr. (172 carries, 974 yards, 2 TDs; 15 receptions, 122 yards; 27.2-yard KO return average, 2 TDs)
RB David Johnson, R-Fr.
RB Zach Cutkomp, R-So. (10 carries, 22 yards)
WR Jarred Herring, Sr. (31 receptions, 549 yards, 5 TDs)
WR Brett LeMaster, R-Fr.
WR Josh Collins, Sr. (18 receptions, 254 yards, 1 TD; injured last season)
WR Terrell Sinkfield, So. (5 receptions, 134 yards)
TE Austin Wells, Sr. (Nebraska-Omaha transfer)
TE Sam Rohr, Fr.
OL Jay Teply, Sr.
OL Kaleb Admire, Sr.
OL Brian Palangi, Jr.
OL Tim Sauer, Jr.
OL Misha Danilov, Jr.
DE Darren Branch, Sr. (37 TT, 5.5 TFL, 2.5 sacks, 3 PBU, 1 QBH)
DT Will Eilert, Sr. (36 TT, 9 TFL, 6 sacks, 1 PBU, 3 QBH, 1 FR)
LB James Conley, Jr. (69 TT, 12 TFL, 6 sacks, 1 INT, 5 PBU, 1 QBH, 2 FR)
LB Shawn Gerard, Sr. (27 TT, 1.5 TFL)
LB L.J. Fort, Sr. (92 TT, 11.5 TFL, 3 sacks, 3 INTs, 2 PBU, 1 FR, 1 FF)
LB Jordan Smith, Sr. (67 TT, 4.5 TFL, 1 INT, 7 PBU, 2 QBH, 1 FF, 1 blocked kick)
LB Jordan Gacke, R-So. (22 TT, 2.5 TFL)
CB Varmah Sonie, So. (20 TT, 1 INT, 4 PBU, 1 FF, 2 blocked kick)
CB J.J. Swain, Jr. (37 TT, 2 TFL, 2 PBU)
S Andre Martin, So. (77 TT, 1.5 TFL, 5 INT, 5 PBU)
ROV Tre'Darrius Canady, Sr. (49 TT, 1 PBU, 2 FF)
DB Garrett Scott, Jr. (46 TT, 1 INT, 1 PBU)
DB Montari Leonard, R-Sr. (wide receiver last season)
P Kyle Bernard, Jr. (35 punts, 42.4 ypp)
OUTLOOK: Northern Iowa's MVFC-championship season limped to a finish November, when a loss to second-place Western Illinois in the regular-season finale cost the Panthers a FCS playoff bye and then they lost at home to Lehigh in the first round. But the Panthers are a deserving preseason favorite behind the return of 18 starters and a superb running game - 216.6 ypg to rank first in the conference and ninth in the FCS. The return of four starters to a huge offensive line will provide big holes again for option QB Rennie, who led all FCS signal-callers in rushing yards and touchdowns, and RB Anderson, who was 26 yards shy of a 1,000-yard season. Linebackers coach Jovan Dewitt was promoted to defensive coordinator and has a unit heavy on pass rushers, led by DTs Boothby and Eilert and LB Conley. Fort could replace Jamar Thompson as an All-MVFC first-team linebacker and opponents will struggle against the veteran secondary. The Panthers have to replace their all-time field goal leader in Billy Hallgren. The road schedule is particularly tough, including an Oct. 29 visit to North Dakota State.
2. NORTH DAKOTA STATE BISON (9-5 overall; 4-4 MVFC)
COACH: Craig Bohl (61-30 in eight seasons at North Dakota State)
STARTERS RETURNING: 15 (7 offense/8 defense)
OFFENSIVE STAR: RB D.J. McNorton, Sr. (280 carries, 1,559 yards, 15 TDs; 25 receptions, 433 yards, 4 TDs)
DEFENSIVE STAR: DE Coulter Boyer, Sr. (58 TT, 13 TFL, 10 sacks, 1 INT, 6 PBU, 18 QBH, 3 FR, 4 FF)
OTHER KEY PLAYERS: QB Brock Jensen, So. (59 of 131 for 950 yards, 7 TDs and 2 INTs; 68 carries, 231 yards, 4 TDs)
RB/P Matt Voigtlander, Sr. (29 carries, 202 yards)
FB Andrew Grothmann, So.
WR Warren Holloway, Sr. (49 receptions, 698 yards, 5 TDs)
WR Reed Duchscher, Jr.
TE Matt Veldman, Sr. (4 receptions, 33 yards, 1 TD)
TE Garrett Bruhn, Jr. (8 receptions, 59 yards)
LT Billy Turner, So.
LG Austin Richard, Sr.
C Joe Lund, Jr.
C Jesse Hinz, So.
RG Tyler Gimmestad, So.
RG Adam Schueller, R-Fr.
RT Paul Cornick, Sr.
NT Leevon Perry, So. (32 TT, 5.5 TFL, 3 sacks, 1 QBH, 2 FR, 2 FF)
NG Ryan Drevlow, So. (19 TT, 3.5 TFL, 2 FF)
DE Scott Stoczynski, Sr. (47 TT, 6 TFL, 1 PBU, 3 QBH, 1 FR)
DE Cole Jirik, So. (27 TT, 8.5 TFL, 7 sacks, 4 QBH, 1 FR)
DE Kyle Emanuel, R-Fr.
OLB Chad Willson, Sr. (74 TT, 4.5 TFL, 1.5 sacks, 4 PBU, 5 QBH)
MLB Preston Evans, Sr. (95 TT, 5.5 TFL, 1 PBU, 1 QBH, 2 FR, 1 FF)
MLB Grant Olson, So. (52 TT, 4.5 TFL, 1 PBU, 2 QBH)
OLB Brandon Jemison, So. (81 TT, 5.5 TFL, 1 FR, 1 FF)
CB Marcus Williams, So. (47 TT, 4 INTs, 12 PBU)
CB Brendin Pierre, Jr. (10 TT, 1 PBU)
SS Colten Heagle, So. (64 TT, 6 TFL)
FS Daniel Eaves, Sr. (74 TT, 2.5 TFL, 3 INTs, 6 PBU, 2 FR, 2 FF)
FS Danell Miles, Fr.
PK Ryan Jastram, Sr. (14 of 23 FG, 51 long; 42 of 43 PAT)
RS/WR Ryan Smith, So. (20.3-yard KO return average; 10.7-yard punt return average)
OUTLOOK: The Bison expect to build on last year's playoff run with a number of influential returnees. But a lot went right for the Bison last season, which included them averaging 38.7 points in three playoff games after being shut out in their regular-season finale. McNorton is one of the top running backs in the FCS and QB Jensen (45-percent accuracy) should become a better passer in his second season. He will work behind a solid offensive line, featuring the 6-foot-6, 311-pound Cornick. The defense was the stingiest among MVFC teams, allowing 18.2 ppg, and helped the Bison to a plus-15 margin in turnovers. The loss of DT Matt Gratzek is substantial, but Boyer is a dominant defensive end who had 18 QB hits and 10 sacks last season, and Jirik will become a starter after totaling seven sacks as a freshman. The linebackers corp returnees four primary players. It doesn't seem fair that productive CBs Heagle and Williams are only sophomores. If the Bison improve their mediocrity on the road, they could win the MVFC title for the first time.
3. SOUTHERN ILLINOIS SALUKIS (5-6 overall; 4-4 MVFC)
COACH: Dale Lennon (25-11 in three seasons at Southern Illinois; 127-43 overall)
STARTERS RETURNING: 12 (6 offense/6 defense)
OFFENSIVE STAR: LT David Pickard, R-Sr.
DEFENSIVE STAR: S/PR Mike McElroy, R-Sr. (9 TT, 1 INT; injured most of last season)
OTHER KEY PLAYERS: QB Paul McIntosh, R-Jr. (15 of 30 for 231 yards, 3 TDs and 2 INTs; 53 carries, 222 yards, 1 TD)
QB A.J. Hill, R-So. (Northern Illinois transfer)
QB Kory Faulkner, R-So.
RB/KR Paul Strother, Jr. (86 carries, 467 yards, 2 TDs; 10 receptions, 124 yards, 2 TDs)
RB Shariff Harris, R-Sr. (132 carries, 604 yards, 8 TDs)
RB Jewel Hampton, R-Jr. (Iowa State transfer)
WR Cam Fuller, R-Sr. (4 receptions, 55 yards, 2 TDs)
WR John Lantz, R-So.
WR Luke Staniford, R-Jr. (1 reception, 43 yards)
TE C.J. Robertson, R-Sr. (3 receptions, 33 yards, 1 TD)
TE De'Ron Flood, R-Fr. (Purdue transfer)
C Bryan Boemer, R-Sr.
RG George Danilkowicz, R-Sr.
RG Eric Bergman, R-Jr.
RT Richard Wilson, R-Jr.
OL Tucker Blanton, R-Fr. (Florida transfer)
DE Chance Coda, R-Sr. (30 TT, 8 TFL, 4.5 sacks, 4 QBH, 2 FF)
DE Kyle Russo, R-Sr. (13 TT, 1.5 TFL, 1 QBH)
DE Kenneth Boatright, R-Jr.
NT Kayon Swanson, R-Jr. (24 TT, 1.5 TFL, 1 PBU, 1 QBH)
OLB E.J. Clark, R-So. (41 TT, 1 FR, 2 FF)
OLB Travis Littles, R-Sr. (14 TT, 3.5 TFL, 1 FF)
OLB Jayson DiManche, R-Jr. (50 TT, 11.5 TFL, 5.5 sacks, 4 PBU, 5 QBH, 1 FR, 1 FF)
ILB Joe Okon, R-Jr. (71 TT, 6.5 TFL, 1 INT, 5 QBH, 1 FR)
ILB Connor James, R-Sr. (37 TT, 3.5 TFL, 1 INT, 1 PBU, 3 QBH, 1 FR, 1 FF)
CB Nick King, R-Sr. (13 TT, 1 PBU)
CB LaVarus Williams, R-Jr. (Central Michigan transfer)
CB Terrell Wilson, So. (18 TT, 1 INT, 3 PBU)
FS Boo Rodgers, So. (17 TT, 2 INTs, 1 PBU)
PK Jackson MacLachlan, So.
P Austin Pucylowski, So. (40 punts, 39.8 ypp)
RS LaSteven McKinney, R-Fr.
OUTLOOK: Southern Illinois' seven-year run of FCS playoff berths ended with a thud last season amid inconsistent play, turnovers and injuries, but the Salukis appear ready to rebound this season. Lennon will benefit from his many FBS transfers. Offensively, the Salukis return their five starting linemen, including four 300-pounders who will pave the way for an outstanding running game. It has become even stronger because former Army transfer McIntosh won the three-way battle at quarterback, although he isn't an accomplished passer. He will have to pass to the least-experienced wide receiver's unit in the conference. The Salukis ranked first in the conference in total defense (332.1 ypg), making the team's 25 turnovers especially glaring. The linebackers unit is strong and adds Clark, who was a free safety last season. McElroy's season- ending ankle injury was the biggest in an injury-hampered secondary, so the return of the potential All-America is huge. The Salukis are anxious to get back on track.
4. INDIANA STATE SYCAMORES (6-5 overall; 4-4 MVFC)
COACH: Trent Miles (7-27 in three seasons at Indiana State)
STARTERS RETURNING: 17 (7 offense/10 defense)
OFFENSIVE STAR: QB Ronnie Fouch, Sr. (168 of 289 for 2,252 yards, 20 TDs and 5 INTs)
DEFENSIVE STAR: DE Ben Obaseki, Jr. (70 TT, 16 TFL, 9 sacks, 1 QBH, 5 QBH, 1 FR, 1 FF)
OTHER KEY PLAYERS: TB/KR Shakir Bell, So. (95 carries, 649 yards, 2 TDs)
TB George Cheeseborough, Jr. (23 carries, 126 yards, 2 TDs)
FB Brock Lough, Sr. (50 carries, 243 yards, 1 TD)
WR/PR Justin Hilton, Sr. (40 receptions, 684 yards, 7 TDs)
WR Ednut Egberongbe, Sr. (10 receptions, 105 yards, 1 TD)
WR Leonard Riston, So. (13 receptions, 136 yards)
WR John Goodlett, Jr. (11 receptions, 130 yards)
WR Donald Spencer, So. (Michigan State transfer)
TE Alex Jones, Sr. (30 receptions, 545 yards, 4 TDs)
LT Casey Paswater, Jr.
LG Ben Geffert, Sr.
C FN Lutz II, Jr.
RG Evan Borchers, Sr.
RT Luke Ecimovic, So.
DT Rod Hardy, Sr. (34 TT, 4.5 TFL, 3 sacks, 1 PBU, 1 FF)
DT Lawrence Young, Sr. (9 TT, 1 blocked kick)
DE Josh Scott, Jr. (9 TT)
OLB Aaron Archie, Jr. (60 TT, 2.5 TFL, 1 PBU, 2 QBH)
MLB C.J. Crook, Sr. (37 TT, 1 sack, 1 INT, 1 PBU, 2 QBH, 1 FR)
OLB Jacolby Washington, Jr. (92 TT, 10 TFL, 5 sacks, 1 PBU, 4 QBH)
CB Larry Carter, Sr. (46 TT, 6 PBU)
CB Calvin Burnett, So. (46 TT, 6 INTs, 8 PBU)
CB Ryan Roberts, Jr. (48 TT, 8.5 TFL, 2 sacks, 4 PBU, 3 QBH, 2 FF)
S/PR Alex Sewall, Sr. (70 TT, 1 sack, 2 INTs, 4 PBU, 1 QBH, 1 FR, 1 FF)
S Larry King, So. (65 TT, 4.5 TFL, 2 sacks, 3 INTs, 2 PBU, 2 QBH, 2 FF)
PK Cory Little, So. (5 of 7 FG, 32 long; 39 of 45 PAT)
P Santino Davis, Sr. (30 punts, 38.4 ypp)
OUTLOOK: Indiana State's banner season a year ago goes way beyond it enjoying its first winning season since 1996. The Sycamores had won only two of their prior 62 games entering the season. They were second in the MVFC with a 31.9- point average - up nearly 23 points from 2009. QB Fouch helped fuel the turnaround in his first season as a University of Washington transfer and will challenge to be the conference's top signal-caller. Darrius Gates, a 1,000- yard, 17-TD rusher, is gone, but RB Bell was outstanding as a freshman and should be even better behind a veteran offensive line. It helps to have the conference's best tight end (Jones) and maybe its best fullback (Lough). DE Obaseki and OLB Washington lead the defense, which returns its top nine tacklers. Sewall and Burnett made the All-MVFC preseason team, so the secondary is sound. The Sycamores didn't beat the better MVFC teams last season. That would be the next step.
5. ILLINOIS STATE REDBIRDS (6-5 overall; 4-4 MVFC)
COACH: Brock Spack (12-10 in two seasons at Illinois State)
STARTERS RETURNING: 16 (9 offense/7 defense)
OFFENSIVE STAR: QB Matt Brown, Jr. (221 of 344 for 2,665 yards, 22 TDs and 11 INTs)
DEFENSIVE STAR: DT Eric Brunner, Sr. (53 TT, 9.5 TFL, 4 sacks, 2 QBH, 1 FR)
OTHER KEY PLAYERS: RB Erik Smith, Jr. (142 carries, 656 yards, 4 TDs; 27 receptions, 192 yards)
RB Ashton Leggett, Sr. (139 carries, 599 yards, 8 TDs)
RB/KR Cameron Hunt, So. (20 carries, 75 yards, 1 TD; 25.1-yard KO return average)
WR Tyrone Walker, Jr. (59 receptions, 974 yards, 12 TDs)
WR/PR Marvon Sanders, Sr. (73 receptions, 754 yards, 2 TDs)
WR Corey Shandrick, So. (9 receptions, 82 yards, 1 TD)
WR Matt Younger, So. (9 receptions, 126 yards, 3 TDs)
TE Brandon Venson, Sr. (6 receptions, 80 yards)
TE Joe Farmer, Fr.
C Cal McCarthy, Sr.
RG Keenan Wimbley, Sr.
LG Nick Bledsoe, Sr.
LT Cody White, Sr.
DT Albert Sparks, So.
DE Shelby Harris, So. (39 TT, 4 TFL, 1 PBU, 6 QBH, 1 blocked kick)
DE Nick Broome, Jr. (49 TT, 5.5 TFL, 2 sacks, 3 QBH, 1 FF, 2 blocked kicks)
DE Nate Palmer, Jr. (Illinois transfer)
LB Josh Howe, Sr. (112 TT, 7.5 TFL, 1 INT, 4 PBU)
LB Mike Zimmer, Jr. (65 TT, 1.5 TFL, 1 PBU, 2 QBH, 1 FR, 1 FF)
LB Austin Davis, Jr. (75 TT, 6 TFL, 1 INT, 2 PBU, 2 QBH, 1 FR, 1 FF)
LB Mike Gordon, Sr.
LB Evan Frierson, Jr. (Illinois transfer)
CB Ryan Givens, So. (37 TT, 2 PBU, 1 FR, 1 FF)
CB Otis Merrill, Sr. (13 TT, 1 PBU)
CB Marcus Harrison, So. (injured much of last season)
FS Matt Goldsmith, So. (8 TT, 1 PBU)
SS Anthony Boddy, R-Fr.
SS Adam Rebholz, So. (1 TT)
PK Mike Aussieker, R-Fr.
P/PK Mike Wood, So.
OUTLOOK: The first one to 40 points wins. The Redbirds might develop the most potent offense in the MVFC, but it might allow the most points, too. In Normal, Ill., it's anything but that. QB Brown, who is entering his third season as a starter, is the top-returning passer in the conference and he will work behind a senior-dominated offensive line, with all of his primary weapons back - Smith and Leggett in the backfield, and Sanders and Walker on the perimeter. Of course, the Redbirds allowed an astounding 39.6 ppg last season - the fifth-worst average in the FCS - and Spack is handling the defensive coordinator position this season. Givens is the only returning starter in the secondary and that unit has to improve dramatically. The situation is more stable in the front seven, with DT Brunner and LB Howe a pair of standout seniors. When Northern Iowa visits on Nov. 19, the Redbirds might be playing for a FCS playoff berth.
6. YOUNGSTOWN STATE PENGUINS (3-8 overall; 1-7 MVFC)
COACH: Eric Wolford (3-8 in one season at Youngstown State)
STARTERS RETURNING: 13 (7 offense/6 defense)
OFFENSIVE STAR: TB/KR Jamaine Cook, Jr. (241 carries, 1,276 yards, 11 TDs; 62 carries, 141 yards, 3 TDs)
DEFENSIVE STAR: LB John Sasson, Sr. (89 TT, 2 TFL, 2 PBU, 4 QBH, 1 FR, 1 FF)
OTHER KEY PLAYERS: QB Kurt Hess, So. (179 of 304 for 2,117 yards, 12 TDs and 8 INTs)
TB Jordan Thompson, So. (36 carries, 144 yards, 4 TDs)
TB/WR Adaris Bellamy, So. (110 carries, 545 yards, 11 TDs; 10 receptions, 59 yards)
WR Kevin Watts, So. (11 receptions, 141 yards, 2 TDs)
WR Julian Harrell, Jr. (12 receptions, 114 yards)
WR Ely Ducatel, Sr. (27 receptions, 336 yards, 2 TDs)
WR Andre Barboza, Sr. (3 receptions, 86 yards, 1 TD)
WR Christian Bryan, Fr.
WR Jelani Berassa, So.
TE Carson Sharbaugh, So. (10 receptions, 123 yards, 1 TD)
TE David Rogers, Sr. (7 receptions, 103 yards, 1 TD)
TE Will Shaw, Jr. (safety last season; 48 TT, 2.5 TFL, 1 INT, 2 PBU)
LT Andrew Radakovich, Jr.
LG Lamar Mady, Jr.
C Mark Pratt, Jr.
RG Chris Elkins, So.
RT D.J. Main, Jr.
DT Andrew Johnson, Sr. (24 TT, 2 TFL, 1 PBU, 1 QBH)
NT Aronde Stanton, Jr.
DE Obinna Ekweremuba, Sr. (24 TT, 4 TFL, 2 QBH, 1 FF)
DE Daniel Stewart, Sr. (11 TT, 2 sacks, 1 QBH, 1 FF)
DE Josh Fenderson, Jr. (Rochester CTC transfer)
LB Dom Rich, So. (15 TT, 2 TFL)
LB Deonta Tate, Sr. (52 TT, 4 TFL, 1.5 sacks, 1 INT, 3 PBU)
LB Davion Rogers, R-Fr.
LB Travis Williams, R-Fr.
CB Devont'a Davis, R-Fr.
CB Jamarious Boatwright, So. (18 TT, 4 PBU, 1 FF)
CB Donald D'Alesio, So. (69 TT, 2 PBU, 1 FF)
SS Jeremey Edwards, Jr. (Compton College transfer)
FS Josh Garner, So. (1 FF)
PK David Brown, Jr.
P Nick Liste, So. (41 punts, 41.4 ypp)
OUTLOOK: There's a lot to be optimistic about at Youngstown. It's true the Penguins ended last season with seven straight conference losses, but five were by six points or less and the other two were by 10 points. So the once- dominant FCS program could improve by two, three wins this season. Poised QB Hess, the 2010 MVFC freshman of the year, improved throughout his first season and is the building block for Wolford, who will rely on plenty of freshmen and sophomores. RB Cook is a Walter Payton Award candidate who excelled behind a porous offensive line last season. Bellamy also had a superb season rushing the ball. LT Radakovich anchors the retooled offensive line. Defensively, the Penguins feature a deep linebackers unit, led by Sasson. They have to improve against the pass and that starts with the four-man defensive front generating more of a pass rush (12 sacks as a team). With six home games, the Penguins should be much improved.
7. WESTERN ILLINOIS FIGHTING LEATHERNECKS (8-5 overall; 5-3 MVFC)
COACH: Mark Hendrickson (13-15 in 2 1/2 seasons at Western Illinois)
STARTERS RETURNING: 12 (6 offense/6 defense)
OFFENSIVE STAR: RB Caulton Ray, Jr. (246 carries, 1,075 yards, 9 TDs)
DEFENSIVE STAR: S Tyler West, Jr. (75 TT, 3 INTs, 6 PBU, 1 FR, 1 FF)
OTHER KEY PLAYERS: QB Wil Lunt, Jr. (1 of 2 for 16 yards and 1 TD)
QB Josh Hudson, Jr. (College of the Siskiyous transfer)
RB/KR Bryce Flowers, So. (150 carries, 804 yards, 8 TDs; 19 receptions, 332 yards, 1 TD; 19.8-yard KO return average)
RB/KR Larry Patterson, R-Fr.
FB Josh Gabelmann, Sr. (5 carries, 26 yards, 3 TDs)
WR Terriun Crump, Sr. (56 receptions, 888 yards, 5 TDs)
WR Charles Chestnut, Jr. (18 receptions, 222 yards, 1 TD)
WR Justin Morgan, Jr. (19 receptions, 192 yards, 1 TD)
WR/KR Myles Daughtry, So. (New Mexico transfer)
WR Tynan Murray, Jr. (Palomar CC transfer)
TE Aaron Muhammad, Sr. (3 receptions, 42 yards, 1 TD)
OG/C Andrew Robiskie, Jr.
OL Jimmy Holtschlag, So.
OL Enock Presendieu, Sr.
OL Jordan Valle, Sr.
DT Dwight Harris, Jr. (30 TT, 4.5 TFL, 1 QBH, 2 FR)
NT Emeka Nwankwo (Notre Dame transfer)
NT Brent Turner, Sr. (2 TT)
DE Ryan Demming, So. (26 TT, 3.5 TFL, 2 sacks, 1 PBU, 1 FR)
LB Kevin Palmero, Sr. (52 TT, 3.5 TFL, 1 PBU)
LB Mike Garoppolo, Sr. (24 TT, 3 TFL)
LB Theon Dixon, Jr. (Ball State transfer)
LB Luke Venegoni, Fr.
CB Chris Boone, Jr. (27 TT, 1 INT, 5 PBU)
CB Kieron James, Jr. (42 TT, 1 INT, 7 PBU, 1 FF)
DB Keith Enderlin, Sr. (35 TT, 1 INT, 3 PBU)
DB Ryan Davis, Sr. (29 TT, 6 PBU, 1 FR)
DB Tim Franken, Sr. (29 TT, 2 TFL, 1 PBU)
DB Raynard Pamilton, Sr. (30 TT, 1.5 TFL, 3 PBU)
PK/P Pat Smith, So. (5 of 7 FG, 38 long; 21 of 21 PAT)
P Michael Shroble, Fr.
PR/WR Myers Hendrickson, Sr. (9.3-yard punt return average)
OUTLOOK: Western Illinois was one of the feel-good stories of 2010, as it improved by seven wins from 2009 and had the runners-up for the Walter Payton (QB Matt Barr), Buck Buchanan (LB Kyle Glazier) and Eddie Robinson (Hendrickson) awards (all sponsored by Fathead.com). However, after graduation hit the Fighting Leathernecks hard, it will be difficult for them to contend for the conference title and another FCS playoff berth. While Barr was injured in 2009, Lunt became the starter and was 104-for-196 for 994 yards, four touchdowns and 12 interceptions. That doesn't bode well for last year's plus-11 turnover margin. Crump will give either Lunt or Hudson a go-to receiver, but the Leathernecks will think run first as they have enjoyed eight straight seasons with a 1,000-yard rusher - a streak both Ray or Flowers, or both, figure to extend this season. The secondary, featuring S West and CB James, is deep, while the rest of the defense is without a major star (look for DT Harris and LB Palmero to gain a higher level of play). The Leathernecks could have the best return game in the conference.
8. SOUTH DAKOTA STATE JACKRABBITS (5-6 overall; 4-4 MVFC)
COACH: John Stiegelmeier (88-66 in 14 seasons at South Dakota State)
STARTERS RETURNING: 14 (8 offense/6 defense)
OFFENSIVE STAR: RB Tyrel Kool, Jr. (64 receptions, 808 yards, 2 TDs)
DEFENSIVE STAR: MLB Mike Lien, Sr. (98 TT, 5 TFL, 1 INT, 1 PBU, 4 QBH, 1 FR)
OTHER KEY PLAYERS: QB Thomas O'Brien, Jr. (201 of 375 for 2,236 yards, 10 TDs and 15 INTs)
QB Jordan Thomas, Jr.
WR Brandon Hubert, So. (32 receptions, 375 yards, 1 TD)
WR/KR Trevor Tiefenthaler, So. (9 receptions, 116 yards, 1 TD; 27.9-yard KO return average)
WR Aaron Rollin, Jr. (24 receptions, 292 yards, 2 TDs)
WR Dale Moss, Sr.
TE Seth Daughters, Jr.
TE Kyle Sheehan, Sr. (2 receptions, 8 yards)
LT Jon Fick, Jr.
LG Zach Buchner, Sr.
C Will Castle, Jr.
RG Alex Parker, So.
RT Bryan Witzmann, So.
DE Zacharia Bowers, Sr. (26 YY, 3.5 TFL, 2.5 sacks, 8 QBH, 1 FF)
DT Chase Douglas, So. (26 TT, 2 sacks, 1 PBU)
NT Andy Mink, Jr. (59 TT, 4.5 TFL, 3 sacks, 1 PBU, 1 QBH, 1 FR, 1 FF)
DE Jake Steffen, Sr. (35 TT, 5.5 TFL, 7 PBU, 3 QBH, 1 FR)
OLB Dirk Kool, Sr. (70 TT, 7 TFL, 3 sacks, 2 INTs, 1 PBU, 1 FR)
OLB Chris Tracy, Jr. (15 TT, 3 TFL, 2 sacks, 1 PBU, 1 FR, 1 FF)
OLB Erich Feller, Sr. (18 TT, 3 PBU)
CB Winston Wright, So. (18 TT, 1 PBU, 2 FR)
OLB Ross Shafrath, Jr. (23 TT, 1 FF)
CB Darryl Jackson, Sr. (37 TT, 2 PBU)
CB David Godley, Jr. (Glendale College transfer)
SS Anthony Wise, Sr. (76 TT, 5 PBU, 2 FF)
FS Bo Helm, Jr. (12 TT, 1 PBU, 2 blocked kicks)
FS Rodkem Matthews, Sr. (9 TT)
PK Kyle Harris, Sr. (2 of 8 FG, 35 long; 5 of 5 PAT)
P Ethan Sawyer. R-Fr.
OUTLOOK: The Jackrabbits won five of their final seven games last season, but that didn't stop them from suffering their first losing season since 2004. Stiegelmeier didn't believe his squad was fundamentally sound and stressed improvement this offseason. Four starters return on the offensive line and they will provide great protection, but the one loss is big - All-America center Ryan McKnight. Also lost was RB Kyle Minett and his 4,277 career rushing yards. To replace him, Tyrel Kool has moved back to his natural running back position (he caught 64 receptions at wide receiver last season). The Jackrabbits, though, will need steadier play at quarterback, presumably from returning starter O'Brien. The defense lost leading tackler Derek Domino at linebacker, but the unit still has standouts in Lien and Dirk Kool. Northern Iowa, North Dakota State, Southern Illinois and Indiana State will visit Brookings, S.D. It's up to the Jackrabbits to make good use of the home schedule.
9. MISSOURI STATE BEARS (5-6 overall; 4-4 MVFC)
COACH: TERRY ALLEN (23-32 in five seasons at Missouri State; 118-91 overall)
STARTERS RETURNING: 9 (5 offense/4 defense)
OFFENSIVE STAR: WR/KR Jermaine Saffold, Sr. (53 receptions, 869 yards, 5 TDs)
DEFENSIVE STAR: OLB Nick Canavan, So. (50 TT, 6 TFL, 1 INT, 2 PBU, 2 QBH)
OTHER KEY PLAYERS: QB Trevor Wooden, So. (wide receiver last season; 21 receptions, 284 yards, 1 TD)
QB Mitchell Jenkins, R-Fr.
RB Stephen Johnston, Sr. (147 carries, 752 yards, 5 TDs)
RB Chris Douglas, Sr. (152 carries, 1,051 yards, 11 TDs; 17 receptions, 108 yards, 1 TD)
RB Vernon Scott, So. (23 carries, 103 yards)
WR Cadarrius Dotson, So. (38 receptions, 495 yards, 1 TD)
WR Willie White, Sr.
WR/RS Julian Burton, R-Fr.
TE Matt Thayer, Jr. (10 receptions, 109 yards, 1 TD)
LT Zack Cooley, R-Fr.
LG Travis Simmons, Sr.
C Harrison Menke, Jr.
RG Kurt Kutter, So.
RT Kyle Hahn, So.
DE Mikel Ruder, Sr. (42 TT, 3.5 TFL, 2.5 sacks, 2 PBU, 3 QBH, 1 FF, 1 blocked kick)
DE Garrett Wade, Jr.
DE Martin Montgomery, Jr. (15 TT, 1 sack, 1 QBH)
NT Tevan Ferguson, Jr. (18 TT, 1 QBH)
OLB Rodney Kelly, Jr. (14 TT, 3 QBH, 1.5 TFL, 1 QBH)
MLB David Ingram, Sr. (13 TT, 2 PBU, 1 FR)
MLB Ryan Callender, So. (2 TT)
OLB Nick Canavan, So. (50 TT, 6 TFL, 1 INT, 2 PBU, 2 QBH)
CB Howard Scarborough, So. (47 TT, 1 INT, 7 PBU, 3 FR)
CB Sybhrian Berry, So.
CB Jimmie Strong, Sr. (31 TT, 4 INTs, 2 PBU; injured last season)
SS Jarrett Wright, Sr. (6 TT)
FS Anthony Lee, Jr. (12 TT)
PK Austin Witmer, So. (6 of 9 FG, 42 long; 10 of 10 PAT)
P Jordan Chiles, Sr. (56 punts, 38.3 ypp)
OUTLOOK: It might have shocked people at Missouri State to see its program last in the MVFC's preseason poll. But the Bears have the conference's fewest returning starters, the defense was pushed around regularly last season and the offense's losses include QB Cody Kirby, who was third in MVFC history with 9,019 yards of total offense. As they look for a new quarterback, Wooden has switched from wide receiver. The Bears still have one of the conference's better wide receivers in Safford, and the rushing game has an excellent 1-2 punch in Douglas (6.9 ypc) and Johnston. But up front LG Simmons is the only returning starter on the offensive line. The defense lost a lot on the line and at linebacker, including standout Antoine Wilkinson. Canavan, though, is one of the rising young linebackers in the conference. Missouri State was 5-0 at home and 0-6 on the road last season. This season, seven of its 11 games are on the road, including all four games in September. Allen hasn't suddenly forgotten how to coach, so the Bears could sneak up on some opponents.
At one end of their season, the Bison were one of only seven FCS programs to beat a FBS team last year - the University of Kansas. At the other end, they won two playoff games and seemingly deserved to beat eventual national champion Eastern Washington before falling in overtime of the quarterfinals.
In between, North Dakota State went 4-4 in Missouri Valley games - not great, not bad, just your typical team in the conference.
"We were certainly pleased to be in the playoffs," North Dakota State head coach Craig Bohl said. "Our players recognize what a great experience that was. I think more our players recognize we were 4-4 in the Valley ... the rugged and tough competition that we have in the Missouri Valley."
It may be difficult for this season to be as topsy-turvy as last season was in the conference. Northern Iowa was picked fourth in the 2010 preseason poll and won the title. Western Illinois was picked eighth and finished second. Six - count 'em, six - teams had 4-4 records, and then it dropped off to last-place Youngstown State.
Northern Iowa was a prohibitive favorite in this year's preseason poll, but everybody across the conference believes the ride will be up and down for many teams. The last three preseason favorites have not won the title.
What makes the Missouri Valley especially tough it that teams play well at home. They went a combined 46-11 (.807) last season. Missouri State, picked last in this year's preseason poll, won all five of its home games.
Last year, the conference had three playoff qualifiers - North Dakota State, Northern Iowa and Western Illinois - for the first time since 2006. Ironically, the champion Panthers were the only team not to win a playoff game.
"I know we got picked to win the league," Northern Iowa head coach Mark Farley said, "(but) I just think that our team is in that role of coming from behind (because it lost in the first round of the playoffs). I think we have to fight back from last season. There's some very good teams.
"We're going to have to earn everything that's coming in front of us."
The MVFC will feature terrific running backs and running-style quarterbacks this season. Following is a team-by-team breakdown of the 2011 race.
The Sports Network's predicted order of finish:
1. Northern Iowa
2. North Dakota State
3. Southern Illinois
4. Indiana State
5. Illinois State
6. Youngstown State
7. Western Illinois
8. South Dakota State
9. Missouri State
Offensive Player of the Year: Tirrell Rennie, QB, Northern Iowa
Defensive Player of the Year: Ben Boothby, DT, Northern Iowa
1. NORTHERN IOWA PANTHERS (7-5 overall; 6-2 MVFC)
COACH: Mark Farley (89-39 in 10 seasons at Northern Iowa)
STARTERS RETURNING: 18 (8 offense/10 defense)
OFFENSIVE STAR: QB Tirrell Rennie, Sr. (94 of 168 for 1,526 yards, 8 TDs and 11 INTs; 232 carries, 1,291 yards, 15 TDs)
DEFENSIVE STAR: DT Ben Boothby, Sr. (56 TT, 16 TFL, 9.5 sacks)
OTHER KEY PLAYERS: RB/RS Carlos Anderson, Jr. (172 carries, 974 yards, 2 TDs; 15 receptions, 122 yards; 27.2-yard KO return average, 2 TDs)
RB David Johnson, R-Fr.
RB Zach Cutkomp, R-So. (10 carries, 22 yards)
WR Jarred Herring, Sr. (31 receptions, 549 yards, 5 TDs)
WR Brett LeMaster, R-Fr.
WR Josh Collins, Sr. (18 receptions, 254 yards, 1 TD; injured last season)
WR Terrell Sinkfield, So. (5 receptions, 134 yards)
TE Austin Wells, Sr. (Nebraska-Omaha transfer)
TE Sam Rohr, Fr.
OL Jay Teply, Sr.
OL Kaleb Admire, Sr.
OL Brian Palangi, Jr.
OL Tim Sauer, Jr.
OL Misha Danilov, Jr.
DE Darren Branch, Sr. (37 TT, 5.5 TFL, 2.5 sacks, 3 PBU, 1 QBH)
DT Will Eilert, Sr. (36 TT, 9 TFL, 6 sacks, 1 PBU, 3 QBH, 1 FR)
LB James Conley, Jr. (69 TT, 12 TFL, 6 sacks, 1 INT, 5 PBU, 1 QBH, 2 FR)
LB Shawn Gerard, Sr. (27 TT, 1.5 TFL)
LB L.J. Fort, Sr. (92 TT, 11.5 TFL, 3 sacks, 3 INTs, 2 PBU, 1 FR, 1 FF)
LB Jordan Smith, Sr. (67 TT, 4.5 TFL, 1 INT, 7 PBU, 2 QBH, 1 FF, 1 blocked kick)
LB Jordan Gacke, R-So. (22 TT, 2.5 TFL)
CB Varmah Sonie, So. (20 TT, 1 INT, 4 PBU, 1 FF, 2 blocked kick)
CB J.J. Swain, Jr. (37 TT, 2 TFL, 2 PBU)
S Andre Martin, So. (77 TT, 1.5 TFL, 5 INT, 5 PBU)
ROV Tre'Darrius Canady, Sr. (49 TT, 1 PBU, 2 FF)
DB Garrett Scott, Jr. (46 TT, 1 INT, 1 PBU)
DB Montari Leonard, R-Sr. (wide receiver last season)
P Kyle Bernard, Jr. (35 punts, 42.4 ypp)
OUTLOOK: Northern Iowa's MVFC-championship season limped to a finish November, when a loss to second-place Western Illinois in the regular-season finale cost the Panthers a FCS playoff bye and then they lost at home to Lehigh in the first round. But the Panthers are a deserving preseason favorite behind the return of 18 starters and a superb running game - 216.6 ypg to rank first in the conference and ninth in the FCS. The return of four starters to a huge offensive line will provide big holes again for option QB Rennie, who led all FCS signal-callers in rushing yards and touchdowns, and RB Anderson, who was 26 yards shy of a 1,000-yard season. Linebackers coach Jovan Dewitt was promoted to defensive coordinator and has a unit heavy on pass rushers, led by DTs Boothby and Eilert and LB Conley. Fort could replace Jamar Thompson as an All-MVFC first-team linebacker and opponents will struggle against the veteran secondary. The Panthers have to replace their all-time field goal leader in Billy Hallgren. The road schedule is particularly tough, including an Oct. 29 visit to North Dakota State.
2. NORTH DAKOTA STATE BISON (9-5 overall; 4-4 MVFC)
COACH: Craig Bohl (61-30 in eight seasons at North Dakota State)
STARTERS RETURNING: 15 (7 offense/8 defense)
OFFENSIVE STAR: RB D.J. McNorton, Sr. (280 carries, 1,559 yards, 15 TDs; 25 receptions, 433 yards, 4 TDs)
DEFENSIVE STAR: DE Coulter Boyer, Sr. (58 TT, 13 TFL, 10 sacks, 1 INT, 6 PBU, 18 QBH, 3 FR, 4 FF)
OTHER KEY PLAYERS: QB Brock Jensen, So. (59 of 131 for 950 yards, 7 TDs and 2 INTs; 68 carries, 231 yards, 4 TDs)
RB/P Matt Voigtlander, Sr. (29 carries, 202 yards)
FB Andrew Grothmann, So.
WR Warren Holloway, Sr. (49 receptions, 698 yards, 5 TDs)
WR Reed Duchscher, Jr.
TE Matt Veldman, Sr. (4 receptions, 33 yards, 1 TD)
TE Garrett Bruhn, Jr. (8 receptions, 59 yards)
LT Billy Turner, So.
LG Austin Richard, Sr.
C Joe Lund, Jr.
C Jesse Hinz, So.
RG Tyler Gimmestad, So.
RG Adam Schueller, R-Fr.
RT Paul Cornick, Sr.
NT Leevon Perry, So. (32 TT, 5.5 TFL, 3 sacks, 1 QBH, 2 FR, 2 FF)
NG Ryan Drevlow, So. (19 TT, 3.5 TFL, 2 FF)
DE Scott Stoczynski, Sr. (47 TT, 6 TFL, 1 PBU, 3 QBH, 1 FR)
DE Cole Jirik, So. (27 TT, 8.5 TFL, 7 sacks, 4 QBH, 1 FR)
DE Kyle Emanuel, R-Fr.
OLB Chad Willson, Sr. (74 TT, 4.5 TFL, 1.5 sacks, 4 PBU, 5 QBH)
MLB Preston Evans, Sr. (95 TT, 5.5 TFL, 1 PBU, 1 QBH, 2 FR, 1 FF)
MLB Grant Olson, So. (52 TT, 4.5 TFL, 1 PBU, 2 QBH)
OLB Brandon Jemison, So. (81 TT, 5.5 TFL, 1 FR, 1 FF)
CB Marcus Williams, So. (47 TT, 4 INTs, 12 PBU)
CB Brendin Pierre, Jr. (10 TT, 1 PBU)
SS Colten Heagle, So. (64 TT, 6 TFL)
FS Daniel Eaves, Sr. (74 TT, 2.5 TFL, 3 INTs, 6 PBU, 2 FR, 2 FF)
FS Danell Miles, Fr.
PK Ryan Jastram, Sr. (14 of 23 FG, 51 long; 42 of 43 PAT)
RS/WR Ryan Smith, So. (20.3-yard KO return average; 10.7-yard punt return average)
OUTLOOK: The Bison expect to build on last year's playoff run with a number of influential returnees. But a lot went right for the Bison last season, which included them averaging 38.7 points in three playoff games after being shut out in their regular-season finale. McNorton is one of the top running backs in the FCS and QB Jensen (45-percent accuracy) should become a better passer in his second season. He will work behind a solid offensive line, featuring the 6-foot-6, 311-pound Cornick. The defense was the stingiest among MVFC teams, allowing 18.2 ppg, and helped the Bison to a plus-15 margin in turnovers. The loss of DT Matt Gratzek is substantial, but Boyer is a dominant defensive end who had 18 QB hits and 10 sacks last season, and Jirik will become a starter after totaling seven sacks as a freshman. The linebackers corp returnees four primary players. It doesn't seem fair that productive CBs Heagle and Williams are only sophomores. If the Bison improve their mediocrity on the road, they could win the MVFC title for the first time.
3. SOUTHERN ILLINOIS SALUKIS (5-6 overall; 4-4 MVFC)
COACH: Dale Lennon (25-11 in three seasons at Southern Illinois; 127-43 overall)
STARTERS RETURNING: 12 (6 offense/6 defense)
OFFENSIVE STAR: LT David Pickard, R-Sr.
DEFENSIVE STAR: S/PR Mike McElroy, R-Sr. (9 TT, 1 INT; injured most of last season)
OTHER KEY PLAYERS: QB Paul McIntosh, R-Jr. (15 of 30 for 231 yards, 3 TDs and 2 INTs; 53 carries, 222 yards, 1 TD)
QB A.J. Hill, R-So. (Northern Illinois transfer)
QB Kory Faulkner, R-So.
RB/KR Paul Strother, Jr. (86 carries, 467 yards, 2 TDs; 10 receptions, 124 yards, 2 TDs)
RB Shariff Harris, R-Sr. (132 carries, 604 yards, 8 TDs)
RB Jewel Hampton, R-Jr. (Iowa State transfer)
WR Cam Fuller, R-Sr. (4 receptions, 55 yards, 2 TDs)
WR John Lantz, R-So.
WR Luke Staniford, R-Jr. (1 reception, 43 yards)
TE C.J. Robertson, R-Sr. (3 receptions, 33 yards, 1 TD)
TE De'Ron Flood, R-Fr. (Purdue transfer)
C Bryan Boemer, R-Sr.
RG George Danilkowicz, R-Sr.
RG Eric Bergman, R-Jr.
RT Richard Wilson, R-Jr.
OL Tucker Blanton, R-Fr. (Florida transfer)
DE Chance Coda, R-Sr. (30 TT, 8 TFL, 4.5 sacks, 4 QBH, 2 FF)
DE Kyle Russo, R-Sr. (13 TT, 1.5 TFL, 1 QBH)
DE Kenneth Boatright, R-Jr.
NT Kayon Swanson, R-Jr. (24 TT, 1.5 TFL, 1 PBU, 1 QBH)
OLB E.J. Clark, R-So. (41 TT, 1 FR, 2 FF)
OLB Travis Littles, R-Sr. (14 TT, 3.5 TFL, 1 FF)
OLB Jayson DiManche, R-Jr. (50 TT, 11.5 TFL, 5.5 sacks, 4 PBU, 5 QBH, 1 FR, 1 FF)
ILB Joe Okon, R-Jr. (71 TT, 6.5 TFL, 1 INT, 5 QBH, 1 FR)
ILB Connor James, R-Sr. (37 TT, 3.5 TFL, 1 INT, 1 PBU, 3 QBH, 1 FR, 1 FF)
CB Nick King, R-Sr. (13 TT, 1 PBU)
CB LaVarus Williams, R-Jr. (Central Michigan transfer)
CB Terrell Wilson, So. (18 TT, 1 INT, 3 PBU)
FS Boo Rodgers, So. (17 TT, 2 INTs, 1 PBU)
PK Jackson MacLachlan, So.
P Austin Pucylowski, So. (40 punts, 39.8 ypp)
RS LaSteven McKinney, R-Fr.
OUTLOOK: Southern Illinois' seven-year run of FCS playoff berths ended with a thud last season amid inconsistent play, turnovers and injuries, but the Salukis appear ready to rebound this season. Lennon will benefit from his many FBS transfers. Offensively, the Salukis return their five starting linemen, including four 300-pounders who will pave the way for an outstanding running game. It has become even stronger because former Army transfer McIntosh won the three-way battle at quarterback, although he isn't an accomplished passer. He will have to pass to the least-experienced wide receiver's unit in the conference. The Salukis ranked first in the conference in total defense (332.1 ypg), making the team's 25 turnovers especially glaring. The linebackers unit is strong and adds Clark, who was a free safety last season. McElroy's season- ending ankle injury was the biggest in an injury-hampered secondary, so the return of the potential All-America is huge. The Salukis are anxious to get back on track.
4. INDIANA STATE SYCAMORES (6-5 overall; 4-4 MVFC)
COACH: Trent Miles (7-27 in three seasons at Indiana State)
STARTERS RETURNING: 17 (7 offense/10 defense)
OFFENSIVE STAR: QB Ronnie Fouch, Sr. (168 of 289 for 2,252 yards, 20 TDs and 5 INTs)
DEFENSIVE STAR: DE Ben Obaseki, Jr. (70 TT, 16 TFL, 9 sacks, 1 QBH, 5 QBH, 1 FR, 1 FF)
OTHER KEY PLAYERS: TB/KR Shakir Bell, So. (95 carries, 649 yards, 2 TDs)
TB George Cheeseborough, Jr. (23 carries, 126 yards, 2 TDs)
FB Brock Lough, Sr. (50 carries, 243 yards, 1 TD)
WR/PR Justin Hilton, Sr. (40 receptions, 684 yards, 7 TDs)
WR Ednut Egberongbe, Sr. (10 receptions, 105 yards, 1 TD)
WR Leonard Riston, So. (13 receptions, 136 yards)
WR John Goodlett, Jr. (11 receptions, 130 yards)
WR Donald Spencer, So. (Michigan State transfer)
TE Alex Jones, Sr. (30 receptions, 545 yards, 4 TDs)
LT Casey Paswater, Jr.
LG Ben Geffert, Sr.
C FN Lutz II, Jr.
RG Evan Borchers, Sr.
RT Luke Ecimovic, So.
DT Rod Hardy, Sr. (34 TT, 4.5 TFL, 3 sacks, 1 PBU, 1 FF)
DT Lawrence Young, Sr. (9 TT, 1 blocked kick)
DE Josh Scott, Jr. (9 TT)
OLB Aaron Archie, Jr. (60 TT, 2.5 TFL, 1 PBU, 2 QBH)
MLB C.J. Crook, Sr. (37 TT, 1 sack, 1 INT, 1 PBU, 2 QBH, 1 FR)
OLB Jacolby Washington, Jr. (92 TT, 10 TFL, 5 sacks, 1 PBU, 4 QBH)
CB Larry Carter, Sr. (46 TT, 6 PBU)
CB Calvin Burnett, So. (46 TT, 6 INTs, 8 PBU)
CB Ryan Roberts, Jr. (48 TT, 8.5 TFL, 2 sacks, 4 PBU, 3 QBH, 2 FF)
S/PR Alex Sewall, Sr. (70 TT, 1 sack, 2 INTs, 4 PBU, 1 QBH, 1 FR, 1 FF)
S Larry King, So. (65 TT, 4.5 TFL, 2 sacks, 3 INTs, 2 PBU, 2 QBH, 2 FF)
PK Cory Little, So. (5 of 7 FG, 32 long; 39 of 45 PAT)
P Santino Davis, Sr. (30 punts, 38.4 ypp)
OUTLOOK: Indiana State's banner season a year ago goes way beyond it enjoying its first winning season since 1996. The Sycamores had won only two of their prior 62 games entering the season. They were second in the MVFC with a 31.9- point average - up nearly 23 points from 2009. QB Fouch helped fuel the turnaround in his first season as a University of Washington transfer and will challenge to be the conference's top signal-caller. Darrius Gates, a 1,000- yard, 17-TD rusher, is gone, but RB Bell was outstanding as a freshman and should be even better behind a veteran offensive line. It helps to have the conference's best tight end (Jones) and maybe its best fullback (Lough). DE Obaseki and OLB Washington lead the defense, which returns its top nine tacklers. Sewall and Burnett made the All-MVFC preseason team, so the secondary is sound. The Sycamores didn't beat the better MVFC teams last season. That would be the next step.
5. ILLINOIS STATE REDBIRDS (6-5 overall; 4-4 MVFC)
COACH: Brock Spack (12-10 in two seasons at Illinois State)
STARTERS RETURNING: 16 (9 offense/7 defense)
OFFENSIVE STAR: QB Matt Brown, Jr. (221 of 344 for 2,665 yards, 22 TDs and 11 INTs)
DEFENSIVE STAR: DT Eric Brunner, Sr. (53 TT, 9.5 TFL, 4 sacks, 2 QBH, 1 FR)
OTHER KEY PLAYERS: RB Erik Smith, Jr. (142 carries, 656 yards, 4 TDs; 27 receptions, 192 yards)
RB Ashton Leggett, Sr. (139 carries, 599 yards, 8 TDs)
RB/KR Cameron Hunt, So. (20 carries, 75 yards, 1 TD; 25.1-yard KO return average)
WR Tyrone Walker, Jr. (59 receptions, 974 yards, 12 TDs)
WR/PR Marvon Sanders, Sr. (73 receptions, 754 yards, 2 TDs)
WR Corey Shandrick, So. (9 receptions, 82 yards, 1 TD)
WR Matt Younger, So. (9 receptions, 126 yards, 3 TDs)
TE Brandon Venson, Sr. (6 receptions, 80 yards)
TE Joe Farmer, Fr.
C Cal McCarthy, Sr.
RG Keenan Wimbley, Sr.
LG Nick Bledsoe, Sr.
LT Cody White, Sr.
DT Albert Sparks, So.
DE Shelby Harris, So. (39 TT, 4 TFL, 1 PBU, 6 QBH, 1 blocked kick)
DE Nick Broome, Jr. (49 TT, 5.5 TFL, 2 sacks, 3 QBH, 1 FF, 2 blocked kicks)
DE Nate Palmer, Jr. (Illinois transfer)
LB Josh Howe, Sr. (112 TT, 7.5 TFL, 1 INT, 4 PBU)
LB Mike Zimmer, Jr. (65 TT, 1.5 TFL, 1 PBU, 2 QBH, 1 FR, 1 FF)
LB Austin Davis, Jr. (75 TT, 6 TFL, 1 INT, 2 PBU, 2 QBH, 1 FR, 1 FF)
LB Mike Gordon, Sr.
LB Evan Frierson, Jr. (Illinois transfer)
CB Ryan Givens, So. (37 TT, 2 PBU, 1 FR, 1 FF)
CB Otis Merrill, Sr. (13 TT, 1 PBU)
CB Marcus Harrison, So. (injured much of last season)
FS Matt Goldsmith, So. (8 TT, 1 PBU)
SS Anthony Boddy, R-Fr.
SS Adam Rebholz, So. (1 TT)
PK Mike Aussieker, R-Fr.
P/PK Mike Wood, So.
OUTLOOK: The first one to 40 points wins. The Redbirds might develop the most potent offense in the MVFC, but it might allow the most points, too. In Normal, Ill., it's anything but that. QB Brown, who is entering his third season as a starter, is the top-returning passer in the conference and he will work behind a senior-dominated offensive line, with all of his primary weapons back - Smith and Leggett in the backfield, and Sanders and Walker on the perimeter. Of course, the Redbirds allowed an astounding 39.6 ppg last season - the fifth-worst average in the FCS - and Spack is handling the defensive coordinator position this season. Givens is the only returning starter in the secondary and that unit has to improve dramatically. The situation is more stable in the front seven, with DT Brunner and LB Howe a pair of standout seniors. When Northern Iowa visits on Nov. 19, the Redbirds might be playing for a FCS playoff berth.
6. YOUNGSTOWN STATE PENGUINS (3-8 overall; 1-7 MVFC)
COACH: Eric Wolford (3-8 in one season at Youngstown State)
STARTERS RETURNING: 13 (7 offense/6 defense)
OFFENSIVE STAR: TB/KR Jamaine Cook, Jr. (241 carries, 1,276 yards, 11 TDs; 62 carries, 141 yards, 3 TDs)
DEFENSIVE STAR: LB John Sasson, Sr. (89 TT, 2 TFL, 2 PBU, 4 QBH, 1 FR, 1 FF)
OTHER KEY PLAYERS: QB Kurt Hess, So. (179 of 304 for 2,117 yards, 12 TDs and 8 INTs)
TB Jordan Thompson, So. (36 carries, 144 yards, 4 TDs)
TB/WR Adaris Bellamy, So. (110 carries, 545 yards, 11 TDs; 10 receptions, 59 yards)
WR Kevin Watts, So. (11 receptions, 141 yards, 2 TDs)
WR Julian Harrell, Jr. (12 receptions, 114 yards)
WR Ely Ducatel, Sr. (27 receptions, 336 yards, 2 TDs)
WR Andre Barboza, Sr. (3 receptions, 86 yards, 1 TD)
WR Christian Bryan, Fr.
WR Jelani Berassa, So.
TE Carson Sharbaugh, So. (10 receptions, 123 yards, 1 TD)
TE David Rogers, Sr. (7 receptions, 103 yards, 1 TD)
TE Will Shaw, Jr. (safety last season; 48 TT, 2.5 TFL, 1 INT, 2 PBU)
LT Andrew Radakovich, Jr.
LG Lamar Mady, Jr.
C Mark Pratt, Jr.
RG Chris Elkins, So.
RT D.J. Main, Jr.
DT Andrew Johnson, Sr. (24 TT, 2 TFL, 1 PBU, 1 QBH)
NT Aronde Stanton, Jr.
DE Obinna Ekweremuba, Sr. (24 TT, 4 TFL, 2 QBH, 1 FF)
DE Daniel Stewart, Sr. (11 TT, 2 sacks, 1 QBH, 1 FF)
DE Josh Fenderson, Jr. (Rochester CTC transfer)
LB Dom Rich, So. (15 TT, 2 TFL)
LB Deonta Tate, Sr. (52 TT, 4 TFL, 1.5 sacks, 1 INT, 3 PBU)
LB Davion Rogers, R-Fr.
LB Travis Williams, R-Fr.
CB Devont'a Davis, R-Fr.
CB Jamarious Boatwright, So. (18 TT, 4 PBU, 1 FF)
CB Donald D'Alesio, So. (69 TT, 2 PBU, 1 FF)
SS Jeremey Edwards, Jr. (Compton College transfer)
FS Josh Garner, So. (1 FF)
PK David Brown, Jr.
P Nick Liste, So. (41 punts, 41.4 ypp)
OUTLOOK: There's a lot to be optimistic about at Youngstown. It's true the Penguins ended last season with seven straight conference losses, but five were by six points or less and the other two were by 10 points. So the once- dominant FCS program could improve by two, three wins this season. Poised QB Hess, the 2010 MVFC freshman of the year, improved throughout his first season and is the building block for Wolford, who will rely on plenty of freshmen and sophomores. RB Cook is a Walter Payton Award candidate who excelled behind a porous offensive line last season. Bellamy also had a superb season rushing the ball. LT Radakovich anchors the retooled offensive line. Defensively, the Penguins feature a deep linebackers unit, led by Sasson. They have to improve against the pass and that starts with the four-man defensive front generating more of a pass rush (12 sacks as a team). With six home games, the Penguins should be much improved.
7. WESTERN ILLINOIS FIGHTING LEATHERNECKS (8-5 overall; 5-3 MVFC)
COACH: Mark Hendrickson (13-15 in 2 1/2 seasons at Western Illinois)
STARTERS RETURNING: 12 (6 offense/6 defense)
OFFENSIVE STAR: RB Caulton Ray, Jr. (246 carries, 1,075 yards, 9 TDs)
DEFENSIVE STAR: S Tyler West, Jr. (75 TT, 3 INTs, 6 PBU, 1 FR, 1 FF)
OTHER KEY PLAYERS: QB Wil Lunt, Jr. (1 of 2 for 16 yards and 1 TD)
QB Josh Hudson, Jr. (College of the Siskiyous transfer)
RB/KR Bryce Flowers, So. (150 carries, 804 yards, 8 TDs; 19 receptions, 332 yards, 1 TD; 19.8-yard KO return average)
RB/KR Larry Patterson, R-Fr.
FB Josh Gabelmann, Sr. (5 carries, 26 yards, 3 TDs)
WR Terriun Crump, Sr. (56 receptions, 888 yards, 5 TDs)
WR Charles Chestnut, Jr. (18 receptions, 222 yards, 1 TD)
WR Justin Morgan, Jr. (19 receptions, 192 yards, 1 TD)
WR/KR Myles Daughtry, So. (New Mexico transfer)
WR Tynan Murray, Jr. (Palomar CC transfer)
TE Aaron Muhammad, Sr. (3 receptions, 42 yards, 1 TD)
OG/C Andrew Robiskie, Jr.
OL Jimmy Holtschlag, So.
OL Enock Presendieu, Sr.
OL Jordan Valle, Sr.
DT Dwight Harris, Jr. (30 TT, 4.5 TFL, 1 QBH, 2 FR)
NT Emeka Nwankwo (Notre Dame transfer)
NT Brent Turner, Sr. (2 TT)
DE Ryan Demming, So. (26 TT, 3.5 TFL, 2 sacks, 1 PBU, 1 FR)
LB Kevin Palmero, Sr. (52 TT, 3.5 TFL, 1 PBU)
LB Mike Garoppolo, Sr. (24 TT, 3 TFL)
LB Theon Dixon, Jr. (Ball State transfer)
LB Luke Venegoni, Fr.
CB Chris Boone, Jr. (27 TT, 1 INT, 5 PBU)
CB Kieron James, Jr. (42 TT, 1 INT, 7 PBU, 1 FF)
DB Keith Enderlin, Sr. (35 TT, 1 INT, 3 PBU)
DB Ryan Davis, Sr. (29 TT, 6 PBU, 1 FR)
DB Tim Franken, Sr. (29 TT, 2 TFL, 1 PBU)
DB Raynard Pamilton, Sr. (30 TT, 1.5 TFL, 3 PBU)
PK/P Pat Smith, So. (5 of 7 FG, 38 long; 21 of 21 PAT)
P Michael Shroble, Fr.
PR/WR Myers Hendrickson, Sr. (9.3-yard punt return average)
OUTLOOK: Western Illinois was one of the feel-good stories of 2010, as it improved by seven wins from 2009 and had the runners-up for the Walter Payton (QB Matt Barr), Buck Buchanan (LB Kyle Glazier) and Eddie Robinson (Hendrickson) awards (all sponsored by Fathead.com). However, after graduation hit the Fighting Leathernecks hard, it will be difficult for them to contend for the conference title and another FCS playoff berth. While Barr was injured in 2009, Lunt became the starter and was 104-for-196 for 994 yards, four touchdowns and 12 interceptions. That doesn't bode well for last year's plus-11 turnover margin. Crump will give either Lunt or Hudson a go-to receiver, but the Leathernecks will think run first as they have enjoyed eight straight seasons with a 1,000-yard rusher - a streak both Ray or Flowers, or both, figure to extend this season. The secondary, featuring S West and CB James, is deep, while the rest of the defense is without a major star (look for DT Harris and LB Palmero to gain a higher level of play). The Leathernecks could have the best return game in the conference.
8. SOUTH DAKOTA STATE JACKRABBITS (5-6 overall; 4-4 MVFC)
COACH: John Stiegelmeier (88-66 in 14 seasons at South Dakota State)
STARTERS RETURNING: 14 (8 offense/6 defense)
OFFENSIVE STAR: RB Tyrel Kool, Jr. (64 receptions, 808 yards, 2 TDs)
DEFENSIVE STAR: MLB Mike Lien, Sr. (98 TT, 5 TFL, 1 INT, 1 PBU, 4 QBH, 1 FR)
OTHER KEY PLAYERS: QB Thomas O'Brien, Jr. (201 of 375 for 2,236 yards, 10 TDs and 15 INTs)
QB Jordan Thomas, Jr.
WR Brandon Hubert, So. (32 receptions, 375 yards, 1 TD)
WR/KR Trevor Tiefenthaler, So. (9 receptions, 116 yards, 1 TD; 27.9-yard KO return average)
WR Aaron Rollin, Jr. (24 receptions, 292 yards, 2 TDs)
WR Dale Moss, Sr.
TE Seth Daughters, Jr.
TE Kyle Sheehan, Sr. (2 receptions, 8 yards)
LT Jon Fick, Jr.
LG Zach Buchner, Sr.
C Will Castle, Jr.
RG Alex Parker, So.
RT Bryan Witzmann, So.
DE Zacharia Bowers, Sr. (26 YY, 3.5 TFL, 2.5 sacks, 8 QBH, 1 FF)
DT Chase Douglas, So. (26 TT, 2 sacks, 1 PBU)
NT Andy Mink, Jr. (59 TT, 4.5 TFL, 3 sacks, 1 PBU, 1 QBH, 1 FR, 1 FF)
DE Jake Steffen, Sr. (35 TT, 5.5 TFL, 7 PBU, 3 QBH, 1 FR)
OLB Dirk Kool, Sr. (70 TT, 7 TFL, 3 sacks, 2 INTs, 1 PBU, 1 FR)
OLB Chris Tracy, Jr. (15 TT, 3 TFL, 2 sacks, 1 PBU, 1 FR, 1 FF)
OLB Erich Feller, Sr. (18 TT, 3 PBU)
CB Winston Wright, So. (18 TT, 1 PBU, 2 FR)
OLB Ross Shafrath, Jr. (23 TT, 1 FF)
CB Darryl Jackson, Sr. (37 TT, 2 PBU)
CB David Godley, Jr. (Glendale College transfer)
SS Anthony Wise, Sr. (76 TT, 5 PBU, 2 FF)
FS Bo Helm, Jr. (12 TT, 1 PBU, 2 blocked kicks)
FS Rodkem Matthews, Sr. (9 TT)
PK Kyle Harris, Sr. (2 of 8 FG, 35 long; 5 of 5 PAT)
P Ethan Sawyer. R-Fr.
OUTLOOK: The Jackrabbits won five of their final seven games last season, but that didn't stop them from suffering their first losing season since 2004. Stiegelmeier didn't believe his squad was fundamentally sound and stressed improvement this offseason. Four starters return on the offensive line and they will provide great protection, but the one loss is big - All-America center Ryan McKnight. Also lost was RB Kyle Minett and his 4,277 career rushing yards. To replace him, Tyrel Kool has moved back to his natural running back position (he caught 64 receptions at wide receiver last season). The Jackrabbits, though, will need steadier play at quarterback, presumably from returning starter O'Brien. The defense lost leading tackler Derek Domino at linebacker, but the unit still has standouts in Lien and Dirk Kool. Northern Iowa, North Dakota State, Southern Illinois and Indiana State will visit Brookings, S.D. It's up to the Jackrabbits to make good use of the home schedule.
9. MISSOURI STATE BEARS (5-6 overall; 4-4 MVFC)
COACH: TERRY ALLEN (23-32 in five seasons at Missouri State; 118-91 overall)
STARTERS RETURNING: 9 (5 offense/4 defense)
OFFENSIVE STAR: WR/KR Jermaine Saffold, Sr. (53 receptions, 869 yards, 5 TDs)
DEFENSIVE STAR: OLB Nick Canavan, So. (50 TT, 6 TFL, 1 INT, 2 PBU, 2 QBH)
OTHER KEY PLAYERS: QB Trevor Wooden, So. (wide receiver last season; 21 receptions, 284 yards, 1 TD)
QB Mitchell Jenkins, R-Fr.
RB Stephen Johnston, Sr. (147 carries, 752 yards, 5 TDs)
RB Chris Douglas, Sr. (152 carries, 1,051 yards, 11 TDs; 17 receptions, 108 yards, 1 TD)
RB Vernon Scott, So. (23 carries, 103 yards)
WR Cadarrius Dotson, So. (38 receptions, 495 yards, 1 TD)
WR Willie White, Sr.
WR/RS Julian Burton, R-Fr.
TE Matt Thayer, Jr. (10 receptions, 109 yards, 1 TD)
LT Zack Cooley, R-Fr.
LG Travis Simmons, Sr.
C Harrison Menke, Jr.
RG Kurt Kutter, So.
RT Kyle Hahn, So.
DE Mikel Ruder, Sr. (42 TT, 3.5 TFL, 2.5 sacks, 2 PBU, 3 QBH, 1 FF, 1 blocked kick)
DE Garrett Wade, Jr.
DE Martin Montgomery, Jr. (15 TT, 1 sack, 1 QBH)
NT Tevan Ferguson, Jr. (18 TT, 1 QBH)
OLB Rodney Kelly, Jr. (14 TT, 3 QBH, 1.5 TFL, 1 QBH)
MLB David Ingram, Sr. (13 TT, 2 PBU, 1 FR)
MLB Ryan Callender, So. (2 TT)
OLB Nick Canavan, So. (50 TT, 6 TFL, 1 INT, 2 PBU, 2 QBH)
CB Howard Scarborough, So. (47 TT, 1 INT, 7 PBU, 3 FR)
CB Sybhrian Berry, So.
CB Jimmie Strong, Sr. (31 TT, 4 INTs, 2 PBU; injured last season)
SS Jarrett Wright, Sr. (6 TT)
FS Anthony Lee, Jr. (12 TT)
PK Austin Witmer, So. (6 of 9 FG, 42 long; 10 of 10 PAT)
P Jordan Chiles, Sr. (56 punts, 38.3 ypp)
OUTLOOK: It might have shocked people at Missouri State to see its program last in the MVFC's preseason poll. But the Bears have the conference's fewest returning starters, the defense was pushed around regularly last season and the offense's losses include QB Cody Kirby, who was third in MVFC history with 9,019 yards of total offense. As they look for a new quarterback, Wooden has switched from wide receiver. The Bears still have one of the conference's better wide receivers in Safford, and the rushing game has an excellent 1-2 punch in Douglas (6.9 ypc) and Johnston. But up front LG Simmons is the only returning starter on the offensive line. The defense lost a lot on the line and at linebacker, including standout Antoine Wilkinson. Canavan, though, is one of the rising young linebackers in the conference. Missouri State was 5-0 at home and 0-6 on the road last season. This season, seven of its 11 games are on the road, including all four games in September. Allen hasn't suddenly forgotten how to coach, so the Bears could sneak up on some opponents.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Monday, August 8, 2011
UNI football hopes to put all the pieces together
Northern Iowa quarterback Tirrell Rennie (center) has two potent, potential targets in running back Carlos Anderson (left) and wide receiver Jarred Herring, having fun during media day at the UNI-Dome on Monday in Cedar Falls. (Jim Slosiarek/The Gazette)
The pieces are in place for another outstanding football season at the University of Northern Iowa.
The defending Missouri Valley Football Conference champion Panthers return a quarterback in Tirrell Rennie who ranked fourth in the league last fall in rushing (1,291 yards), passing efficiency (134.9 rating) and total offense (2,817 yards).
They return a running back/kick returner in Carlos Anderson who just missed the 1,000-yard mark at 974, but ranked second in all-purpose yards with 1,810.
Wide receiver Jarred Herring also is back after catching a team-best 31 passes for 549 yards and also is coming off a successful track season.
The offensive line is anchored by a pair of Cedar Rapids seniors in Jay Teply from Xavier and Kaleb Admire of Jefferson.
“We’ve got enough pieces to the puzzle,” said Mark Farley, entering his 11th season as head coach of his alma mater.
The defense isn’t too shabby, either.
Lineman Ben Boothby has been named to about every preseason All-America team after leading the MVFC in tackles for loss with 16 last year and is the “kind of kid you want raising the banner for your school.”
Linebacker L.J. Fort ranked ninth in the league last year with 92 tackles and defensive back Andre Martin is coming off a five-interception season. Fellow defensive back J.J. Swain is a preseason all-league pick and lineman August Hadenfledt of Solon was named a captain.
“The front seven are all seniors,” Farley said. “That experience should stand out.”
Throw in punter Kyle Bernard, who ranked second last year at 42.4 yards a boot, and you have the makings of another league and playoff contender.
“We need to just compete against each other,” Farley said, adding he’s lining up the No. 1 offense against the No. 1 defense and letting them go at it right now. “You want them to be healthy, but you also want them be tough.
“There’s still a lot to learn.”
About the only outward learning area is the kicking game.
“We’ll have to find a kicker in camp,” Farley said, mentioning former Cedar Rapids Kennedy prep Tyler Sievertsen. “We’re looking forward to seeing how that position unfolds.”
The progress of Rennie, however, holds the key. A two-time junior college All-American at Ellsworth, Rennie needs to be as good a passer as he is a runner. Last year he passed for a respectable 1,543 yards, but had 11 interceptions and just eight touchdown passes.
Farley said he should have a better grasp of the UNI offense after his second spring and summer workout sessions.
“He can throw, he just needs to know where to look,” Farley said. “That takes experience, that takes repetition.
“I expect him to be a much better player.”
Farley doesn’t expect him to be a straight drop-back passer, however.
“I don’t want him to be out there worrying about being a robot,” he said. “Let him play.”
The Panthers open the season Sept. 3 at Iowa State, then head to Stephen F, Austin before a week off and opening the home schedule against Western Illinois on Sept. 24.
“This season they better be tough,” Farley said. “There is no light team on this schedule
UNI football media day
Northern Iowa Coach Mark Farley kept the media day focus on his Panthers.
The season kicks off Sept. 3 Iowa State, but Farley didn’t go into great detail about the Cyclones.
“What I learned from last year is Iowa State’s a good football team,” Farley said. “And as I under stand, they’re better (this season).”
Farley went into more depth about his offensive line (which features four returning starters), his defensive line (also with all four starters returning) and all-Missouri Valley Conference quarterback Tirrell Rennie.
“The thing about Tirrell is he’s such a good-natured person,” Farley said. “He’s always positive all the time.”
The Panthers will actually open against three straight opponents who defeated them last season, including Stephen F. Austin and Western Illinois.
“We have to come out a very good football team very early,” Farley said. “Then you have to go in and find out what our league is like.”
Farely was asked if he liked playing Iowa State in the opener.
“I’d like to play somebody else first, and then Iowa State,” he said. “But it doesn’t matter.
“There’s no one on the schedule that we can say we can come up for a breather
The season kicks off Sept. 3 Iowa State, but Farley didn’t go into great detail about the Cyclones.
“What I learned from last year is Iowa State’s a good football team,” Farley said. “And as I under stand, they’re better (this season).”
Farley went into more depth about his offensive line (which features four returning starters), his defensive line (also with all four starters returning) and all-Missouri Valley Conference quarterback Tirrell Rennie.
“The thing about Tirrell is he’s such a good-natured person,” Farley said. “He’s always positive all the time.”
The Panthers will actually open against three straight opponents who defeated them last season, including Stephen F. Austin and Western Illinois.
“We have to come out a very good football team very early,” Farley said. “Then you have to go in and find out what our league is like.”
Farely was asked if he liked playing Iowa State in the opener.
“I’d like to play somebody else first, and then Iowa State,” he said. “But it doesn’t matter.
“There’s no one on the schedule that we can say we can come up for a breather
Northern Iowa poised to compete behind quarterback Rennie
In a league stocked with big, physical players, Northern Iowa quarterback Tirrell Rennie is a firecracker waiting to explode. He’s the No. 1 reason the Panthers are taking the favorite’s label in the Missouri Valley Football Conference.
At 6-foot and 200 pounds, he’s not exactly small. But finding a quicker skill player will be tough to find this season and the Panthers hope a season of experience will pay off.
Last year, Rennie was the first player in school history to run and throw for more than 1,000 yards each.
“He’s a phenomenal runner, a great athlete and does things you can’t teach,” said head coach Mark Farley.
There are things you can teach him, Farley said. An emphasis heading into this season is to improve his passing game and the overall management of the Panther offense.
“Our offense is our offense and it always will be no matter who the quarterback is,” Farley said, “but there is some change with the dynamics Tirrell brings to the table.”
There’s a lot more on the UNI table than just the quarterback. The Panthers led the league with seven selections on the pre-season all-conference team in a poll of league coaches and media.
Defensive tackle Ben Boothby is on the “watch list” for the Buck Buchanan Award, which goes to the outstanding defensive player in the Division I Football Championship Subdivision. Rennie is on the watch list for the Walter Payton Award, which goes FCS’s best player.
Farley said receiver Jarred Herring is an anchor on offense. On defense, linebacker L.J. Fort and defensive lineman Darren Branch are back to help erase a first-round playoff loss last year – a first for UNI.
“We have to fight back from last season is my sense,” Farley said.
At 6-foot and 200 pounds, he’s not exactly small. But finding a quicker skill player will be tough to find this season and the Panthers hope a season of experience will pay off.
“He’s a phenomenal runner, a great athlete and does things you can’t teach,” said head coach Mark Farley.
There are things you can teach him, Farley said. An emphasis heading into this season is to improve his passing game and the overall management of the Panther offense.
“Our offense is our offense and it always will be no matter who the quarterback is,” Farley said, “but there is some change with the dynamics Tirrell brings to the table.”
There’s a lot more on the UNI table than just the quarterback. The Panthers led the league with seven selections on the pre-season all-conference team in a poll of league coaches and media.
Defensive tackle Ben Boothby is on the “watch list” for the Buck Buchanan Award, which goes to the outstanding defensive player in the Division I Football Championship Subdivision. Rennie is on the watch list for the Walter Payton Award, which goes FCS’s best player.
Farley said receiver Jarred Herring is an anchor on offense. On defense, linebacker L.J. Fort and defensive lineman Darren Branch are back to help erase a first-round playoff loss last year – a first for UNI.
“We have to fight back from last season is my sense,” Farley said.
Monday, August 1, 2011
In the FCS Huddle: Missouri Valley teams on title 'run'
Everywhere you look around college football, offenses are spreading out opponents and defensive coordinators are sending in extra defensive backs to try to stop what's being thrown their team's way.
That's why the black-and-blue nature of the Missouri Valley Football Conference is a little different.
"I think we're a little bit of a throw-back league," North Dakota State coach Craig Bohl said.
Teams don't just run the ball a little more in the nation's heartland, they tend to trust in the adage that on any given Saturday one team can rise up, pound the other and walk (or limp) away a winner.
Northern Iowa could take some pleasure on Monday that it was installed as an overwhelming preseason favorite in the MVFC, but there's probably little room for comfort. Last year's race was turned so upside down in a parity- filled season that six of the nine teams finished with 4-4 conference records.
UNI hasn't gone on to win the conference title five of the last six times it was made the preseason favorite, but the Panthers are the last team to do so - in 2007 - as the last three preseason favorites fell short of the expectations.
At least the defending champions are fortified in the offensive backfield. UNI's Tirrell Rennie led all FCS quarterbacks in rushing yards (1,291) and rushing touchdowns (15), and running back Carlos Anderson fell just shy of a 1,000-yard season.
"I do think the Missouri Valley has a little more of a run-first mentality," Southern Illinois head coach Dale Lennon said. "You can control a tempo of a game if you're capable of doing that. And I think just because of where we live, too, the weather's always going to be a factor in the games. Especially late-season, I think that's where you really do see the big physical teams step forward and kind of have the upper hand when it comes to trying to make some postseason runs. I think college football, the key is still running the football."
Only two of the MVFC's top 15 rushers last season were seniors. Northern Iowa's 216.6 rushing yards per game edged Youngstown State and Missouri State for the conference high, and six MVFC teams ranked in the FCS' top 25 in rushing offense.
The three teams picked atop the MVFC preseason poll feature rushing-style quarterbacks - Rennie at Northern Iowa, Brock Jensen at No. 2 North Dakota State and Paul McIntosh at No. 3 Southern Illinois. Each of the trio returns a veteran offensive line as well.
In addition to Rennie, the MVFC has returning 1,000-yard rushers in running backs D.J. McNorton of North Dakota State, Jamaine Cook of Youngstown State, Chris Douglas at Missouri State and Caulton Ray of Western Illinois.
"We have teams that certainly believe in spreading the field out," Bohl said, "but my mentor is a guy named Tom Osborne. When I worked for him at the University of Nebraska, he always believed in being able to run the football and defending the run. Those two axioms have stuck with me. I think within our league, there's a lot of great coaches, and I think if you just go down the list, there's probably very few of them that are not hard-nosed ball coaches who believe in being physical. So as a result of that, that's the nature of our league. To survive it, you better be tough and rugged."
And be able to avoid a letdown.
Coaches across the MVFC agree the 2011 race could resemble last season's. Among the wackiness of a year ago, Southern Illinois, picked first, went from 11 wins in 2009 to a rare losing record at 5-6; Western Illinois went from a one-win season in 2009 to second place and a FCS playoff berth; Indiana State posted a 6-5 season after losing 60 of its prior 62 games entering the season; and North Dakota State, which went 3-8 in 2009, went all the way to the FCS semifinals in a nine-win season.
"I don't think it will be any different," said Illinois State coach Brock Spack, whose team, picked fifth, is the MVFC's exception rather than the rule as quarterback Matt Brown allows the Redbirds to think pass first over the run. "I think Northern Iowa is obviously the odds-on favorite; they have a great program, they won the league a year ago. But I think all the rest of us, you can throw us in a hat and swirl around. If you stay healthy and you play consistent every Saturday, you've got a chance to win and maybe have a chance to run at the conference championship and get in the playoffs. This league is very, very balanced."
"At game time," Western Illinois coach Mark Hendrickson said, "you need to be at your best every Saturday."
MISSOURI VALLEY FOOTBALL PRESEASON POLL (Head Coaches, Media and Sports Information Directors)
1. Northern Iowa (29 first-place votes), 316 points
2. North Dakota State (6), 275
3. Southern Illinois (1), 207
4. South Dakota State, 172
5. Illinois State, 169
6. Indiana State, 168
7. Western Illinois, 151
8. Youngstown State, 88
9. Missouri State, 74
PRESEASON MISSOURI VALLEY FOOTBALL ALL-CONFERENCE TEAM
Offense
QB- Tirrell Rennie, Northern Iowa, Sr.
RB- Jamaine Cook, Youngstown State, Jr.
RB- D.J. McNorton, North Dakota State, Sr.
FB- Brock Lough, Indiana State, Sr. Terre Haute
WR- Jermaine Saffold, Missouri State, Sr.
WR- Tyrone Walker, Illinois State, Jr.
TE- Alex Jones, Indiana State, Sr.
OL- Bryan Boemer, Southern Illinois, Sr.
OL- Paul Cornick, North Dakota State, Sr.
OL- Cal McCarthy, Illinois State, Sr.
OL- David Pickard, Southern Illinois, Sr.
OL- Andrew Radakovich, Youngstown State, Jr.
OL- Jay Teply, Northern Iowa, Sr.
Defense
DL- Ben Boothby, Northern Iowa, Sr.
DL- Coulter Boyer, North Dakota State, Sr.
DL- Eric Brunner, Illinois State, Sr.
DL- Ben Obaseki, Indiana State, Jr.
LB- L.J. Fort, Northern Iowa, Sr.
LB- Josh Howe, Illinois State, Sr.
LB- Michael Lien, South Dakota State, Sr.
LB- Jacolby Washington, Indiana State, Jr.
DB- Calvin Burnett, Indiana State, So.
DB- Mike McElroy, Southern Illinois, Sr.
DB- Alex Sewall, Indiana State, Sr.
DB- J.J. Swain, Northern Iowa, Jr.
DB- Marcus Williams, North Dakota State, So.
Specialists
PK- Ryan Jastram, North Dakota State, Sr.
P- Nick Liste, Youngstown State, So.
P- Kyle Bernard, Northern Iowa, Jr.
RS- Carlos Anderson, Northern Iowa, Jr.
Honorable Mention
QB- Matt Brown, Illinois State, Jr.
QB- Ronnie Fouch, Indiana State, Sr.
RB- Chris Douglas, Missouri State, Sr.
WR- Terriun Crump, Western Illinois, Sr.
WR- Marvon Sanders, Illinois State, Sr.
OL- Nick Bledsoe, Illinois State, Sr.
OL- Jonathan Fick, South Dakota State, Jr.
OL- Brian Palangi, Northern Iowa, Jr.
OL- Jordan Valle, Western Illinois, Sr.
DL- Chance Coda, Southern Illinois, Sr.
LB- Aaron Archie, Indiana State, Jr.
LB- James Conley, Northern Iowa, Sr.
LB- Preston Evans, North Dakota State, Sr.
DB- Jimmie Strong, Missouri State, Sr.
DB- Andre Martin, Northern Iowa, Jr.
DB- Ryan Davis, Western Illinois, Sr.
PK- Pat Smith, Western Illinois, So.
P- Jordan Chiles, Missouri State, Sr.
RS- Jarred Herring, Northern Iowa, Sr.
That's why the black-and-blue nature of the Missouri Valley Football Conference is a little different.
"I think we're a little bit of a throw-back league," North Dakota State coach Craig Bohl said.
Teams don't just run the ball a little more in the nation's heartland, they tend to trust in the adage that on any given Saturday one team can rise up, pound the other and walk (or limp) away a winner.
Northern Iowa could take some pleasure on Monday that it was installed as an overwhelming preseason favorite in the MVFC, but there's probably little room for comfort. Last year's race was turned so upside down in a parity- filled season that six of the nine teams finished with 4-4 conference records.
UNI hasn't gone on to win the conference title five of the last six times it was made the preseason favorite, but the Panthers are the last team to do so - in 2007 - as the last three preseason favorites fell short of the expectations.
At least the defending champions are fortified in the offensive backfield. UNI's Tirrell Rennie led all FCS quarterbacks in rushing yards (1,291) and rushing touchdowns (15), and running back Carlos Anderson fell just shy of a 1,000-yard season.
"I do think the Missouri Valley has a little more of a run-first mentality," Southern Illinois head coach Dale Lennon said. "You can control a tempo of a game if you're capable of doing that. And I think just because of where we live, too, the weather's always going to be a factor in the games. Especially late-season, I think that's where you really do see the big physical teams step forward and kind of have the upper hand when it comes to trying to make some postseason runs. I think college football, the key is still running the football."
Only two of the MVFC's top 15 rushers last season were seniors. Northern Iowa's 216.6 rushing yards per game edged Youngstown State and Missouri State for the conference high, and six MVFC teams ranked in the FCS' top 25 in rushing offense.
The three teams picked atop the MVFC preseason poll feature rushing-style quarterbacks - Rennie at Northern Iowa, Brock Jensen at No. 2 North Dakota State and Paul McIntosh at No. 3 Southern Illinois. Each of the trio returns a veteran offensive line as well.
In addition to Rennie, the MVFC has returning 1,000-yard rushers in running backs D.J. McNorton of North Dakota State, Jamaine Cook of Youngstown State, Chris Douglas at Missouri State and Caulton Ray of Western Illinois.
"We have teams that certainly believe in spreading the field out," Bohl said, "but my mentor is a guy named Tom Osborne. When I worked for him at the University of Nebraska, he always believed in being able to run the football and defending the run. Those two axioms have stuck with me. I think within our league, there's a lot of great coaches, and I think if you just go down the list, there's probably very few of them that are not hard-nosed ball coaches who believe in being physical. So as a result of that, that's the nature of our league. To survive it, you better be tough and rugged."
And be able to avoid a letdown.
Coaches across the MVFC agree the 2011 race could resemble last season's. Among the wackiness of a year ago, Southern Illinois, picked first, went from 11 wins in 2009 to a rare losing record at 5-6; Western Illinois went from a one-win season in 2009 to second place and a FCS playoff berth; Indiana State posted a 6-5 season after losing 60 of its prior 62 games entering the season; and North Dakota State, which went 3-8 in 2009, went all the way to the FCS semifinals in a nine-win season.
"I don't think it will be any different," said Illinois State coach Brock Spack, whose team, picked fifth, is the MVFC's exception rather than the rule as quarterback Matt Brown allows the Redbirds to think pass first over the run. "I think Northern Iowa is obviously the odds-on favorite; they have a great program, they won the league a year ago. But I think all the rest of us, you can throw us in a hat and swirl around. If you stay healthy and you play consistent every Saturday, you've got a chance to win and maybe have a chance to run at the conference championship and get in the playoffs. This league is very, very balanced."
"At game time," Western Illinois coach Mark Hendrickson said, "you need to be at your best every Saturday."
MISSOURI VALLEY FOOTBALL PRESEASON POLL (Head Coaches, Media and Sports Information Directors)
1. Northern Iowa (29 first-place votes), 316 points
2. North Dakota State (6), 275
3. Southern Illinois (1), 207
4. South Dakota State, 172
5. Illinois State, 169
6. Indiana State, 168
7. Western Illinois, 151
8. Youngstown State, 88
9. Missouri State, 74
PRESEASON MISSOURI VALLEY FOOTBALL ALL-CONFERENCE TEAM
Offense
QB- Tirrell Rennie, Northern Iowa, Sr.
RB- Jamaine Cook, Youngstown State, Jr.
RB- D.J. McNorton, North Dakota State, Sr.
FB- Brock Lough, Indiana State, Sr. Terre Haute
WR- Jermaine Saffold, Missouri State, Sr.
WR- Tyrone Walker, Illinois State, Jr.
TE- Alex Jones, Indiana State, Sr.
OL- Bryan Boemer, Southern Illinois, Sr.
OL- Paul Cornick, North Dakota State, Sr.
OL- Cal McCarthy, Illinois State, Sr.
OL- David Pickard, Southern Illinois, Sr.
OL- Andrew Radakovich, Youngstown State, Jr.
OL- Jay Teply, Northern Iowa, Sr.
Defense
DL- Ben Boothby, Northern Iowa, Sr.
DL- Coulter Boyer, North Dakota State, Sr.
DL- Eric Brunner, Illinois State, Sr.
DL- Ben Obaseki, Indiana State, Jr.
LB- L.J. Fort, Northern Iowa, Sr.
LB- Josh Howe, Illinois State, Sr.
LB- Michael Lien, South Dakota State, Sr.
LB- Jacolby Washington, Indiana State, Jr.
DB- Calvin Burnett, Indiana State, So.
DB- Mike McElroy, Southern Illinois, Sr.
DB- Alex Sewall, Indiana State, Sr.
DB- J.J. Swain, Northern Iowa, Jr.
DB- Marcus Williams, North Dakota State, So.
Specialists
PK- Ryan Jastram, North Dakota State, Sr.
P- Nick Liste, Youngstown State, So.
P- Kyle Bernard, Northern Iowa, Jr.
RS- Carlos Anderson, Northern Iowa, Jr.
Honorable Mention
QB- Matt Brown, Illinois State, Jr.
QB- Ronnie Fouch, Indiana State, Sr.
RB- Chris Douglas, Missouri State, Sr.
WR- Terriun Crump, Western Illinois, Sr.
WR- Marvon Sanders, Illinois State, Sr.
OL- Nick Bledsoe, Illinois State, Sr.
OL- Jonathan Fick, South Dakota State, Jr.
OL- Brian Palangi, Northern Iowa, Jr.
OL- Jordan Valle, Western Illinois, Sr.
DL- Chance Coda, Southern Illinois, Sr.
LB- Aaron Archie, Indiana State, Jr.
LB- James Conley, Northern Iowa, Sr.
LB- Preston Evans, North Dakota State, Sr.
DB- Jimmie Strong, Missouri State, Sr.
DB- Andre Martin, Northern Iowa, Jr.
DB- Ryan Davis, Western Illinois, Sr.
PK- Pat Smith, Western Illinois, So.
P- Jordan Chiles, Missouri State, Sr.
RS- Jarred Herring, Northern Iowa, Sr.
Panthers Picked to Win Missouri Valley Football Conference
The University of Northern Iowa football team has been selected as the preseason favorite to claim the 2011 Missouri Valley Football Conference crown.
The Panthers received the top spot in a poll conducted by league coaches, media and sports information directors. UNI, which has been ranked in 81 straight regular-season polls, received 316 total points and 29 of 36 first-place votes. The Panthers were one of three league teams in the FCS playoffs last year and finished the 2010 league slate with a 6-2 mark and outright MVFC crown.
North Dakota State was second in the poll with 275 points and six first-place votes. Southern Illinois claimed the only remaining first-place vote and took third with 207 points.
South Dakota State claimed the No. 4 spot with 172 points, leading a pack consisting of Illinois State (169 points), Indiana State (168 points) and Western Illinois (151 points). Youngstown State and Missouri State rounded out the poll at No. 8 and No. 9, respectively.
On the individual side, the Panthers led the way with seven preseason All-MVFC selections and an additional four honorable mention picks.
Senior quarterback Tirrell Rennie, senior offensive lineman Jay Teply, senior defensive lineman Ben Boothby, senior linebacker L.J. Fort, junior defensive back J.J. Swain, junior punter Kyle Bernard and junior return specialist Carlos Anderson were preseason All-Valley selections.
Junior offensive lineman Brian Palangi, senior linebacker James Conley, junior defensive back Andre Martin and senior return specialist Jarred Herring earned honorable mention status.
The Panthers kick off the season Sept. 3 at Iowa State. UNI will set out to defend its MVFC title with the conference- and home-opener on Sept. 24 against Western Illinois.
2011 Valley Football Preseason Poll
Team (First-place votes) Points
1. UNI (29) 316
2. North Dakota State (6) 275
3. Southern Illinois (1) 207
4. South Dakota State 172
5. Illinois State 169
6. Indiana State 168
7. Western Illinois 151
8. Youngstown State 88
9. Missouri State 74
The Panthers received the top spot in a poll conducted by league coaches, media and sports information directors. UNI, which has been ranked in 81 straight regular-season polls, received 316 total points and 29 of 36 first-place votes. The Panthers were one of three league teams in the FCS playoffs last year and finished the 2010 league slate with a 6-2 mark and outright MVFC crown.
North Dakota State was second in the poll with 275 points and six first-place votes. Southern Illinois claimed the only remaining first-place vote and took third with 207 points.
South Dakota State claimed the No. 4 spot with 172 points, leading a pack consisting of Illinois State (169 points), Indiana State (168 points) and Western Illinois (151 points). Youngstown State and Missouri State rounded out the poll at No. 8 and No. 9, respectively.
On the individual side, the Panthers led the way with seven preseason All-MVFC selections and an additional four honorable mention picks.
Senior quarterback Tirrell Rennie, senior offensive lineman Jay Teply, senior defensive lineman Ben Boothby, senior linebacker L.J. Fort, junior defensive back J.J. Swain, junior punter Kyle Bernard and junior return specialist Carlos Anderson were preseason All-Valley selections.
Junior offensive lineman Brian Palangi, senior linebacker James Conley, junior defensive back Andre Martin and senior return specialist Jarred Herring earned honorable mention status.
The Panthers kick off the season Sept. 3 at Iowa State. UNI will set out to defend its MVFC title with the conference- and home-opener on Sept. 24 against Western Illinois.
2011 Valley Football Preseason Poll
Team (First-place votes) Points
1. UNI (29) 316
2. North Dakota State (6) 275
3. Southern Illinois (1) 207
4. South Dakota State 172
5. Illinois State 169
6. Indiana State 168
7. Western Illinois 151
8. Youngstown State 88
9. Missouri State 74
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