College Football Preview 2024
NCAA FOOTBALL PREVIEW PT 1 ( Teams playing Thursday August 24th )
2024 Florida State Seminoles Football Outlook
2023 Season Performance
Florida State had an outstanding 2023 season, finishing with a 13-1 record and winning the ACC Championship.
Key Returning Players
Quarterback
DJ Uiagalelei (R-Sr.): A transfer from Clemson, Uiagalelei brings experience and a strong arm to the quarterback position.
Running Back
Lawrance Toafili R-Sr.: Showed promise in the Spring Showcase and is expected to be a key contributor in the backfield.
Wide Receiver
Kentron Poitier (R-Sr.): At 6'3" and 202 lbs, Poitier provides a big target for the passing game.
Defense
Shyheim Brown (R-Jr.): Brown is considered the most important player on defense. In 2023, he recorded 25 solo tackles, 1 interception, and 4 pass deflections.
New Additions
Defensive Back
Charles Lester III (Fr.): A highly-touted freshman cornerback who could make an immediate impact.
Running Back
Kam Davis (Fr.): A 5'10", 224 lb freshman who could add depth to the running back position.
Coaching Staff
Patrick Surtain: As the defensive backs coach, Surtain has been credited with developing the secondary into potentially the best unit in the ACC.
Challenges
- Integrating new players, especially in the secondary where FSU lost three starters to the NFL.
- Maintaining the high level of performance from the 2023 season.
- Adapting to potential changes in the coaching staff or schemes.
Season Outlook
Despite significant roster turnover, especially in the secondary, Florida State is projected to have another strong season in 2024. The team has reloaded through recruiting and transfers, and the return of key players like Shyheim Brown provides continuity. The Seminoles' ability to quickly integrate new talent, particularly in the defensive backfield, will be crucial to their success in the upcoming season.
2024 Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets Football Outlook
2023 Season Performance
Georgia Tech finished the 2023 season with a 7-6 record, showing improvement under head coach Brent Key.
Key Players
Quarterback
Haynes King (Jr.): A 6'3", 204 lb transfer from Texas A&M, King brings experience to the position.
Running Back
Jamal Haynes (Jr.): At 5'9" and 180 lbs, Haynes is expected to be a key contributor in the backfield.
Wide Receiver
Leo Blackburn (Jr.): Standing at 6'5" and 220 lbs, Blackburn provides a big target for the passing game.
Defensive Back
LaMiles Brooks (Sr.): A 6'2", 188 lb senior, Brooks is likely to be a leader in the secondary.
Promising Newcomers
Running Back
Anthony Carrie (Fr.): A 6'0", 200 lb freshman who could make an immediate impact.
Wide Receiver
Isiah Canion (Fr.): At 6'4" and 195 lbs, Canion brings size to the receiver corps.
Coaching Staff
Brent Key: Entering his second full season as head coach, Key looks to build on the progress made in 2023.
Position Group Strengths
Defensive Line
Players like Zeek Biggers (Sr., 6'6", 333 lbs) provide size and experience up front[2].
Linebacker Corps
Jacob Cruz (So., 6'4", 232 lbs) is part of a young but promising linebacker group.
Challenges
- Integrating new players, especially freshmen and transfers, into the system.
- Improving on their 7-6 record from the previous season.
- Competing in a tough ACC conference.
Season Outlook
Georgia Tech enters the 2024 season with a mix of experienced players and promising newcomers. The team's ability to build on their 2023 performance will depend on how quickly new players adapt and how well they can compete in key ACC matchups. With an average NIL value of $59K per player and a total NIL value of $5.6M for the team, Georgia Tech has resources to attract and retain talent[1].
The Yellow Jackets' success will likely hinge on the performance of key players like Haynes King at quarterback and the development of young talents like Anthony Carrie and Isiah Canion. Coach Brent Key's second full season will be crucial in establishing a consistent winning culture at Georgia Tech.
2024 New Mexico Lobos Football Outlook
2023 Season Performance
The Lobos have struggled in recent years, not having won more than four games in a season for the past eight years.
Key Changes
New Head Coach
Bronco Mendenhall: A first-year coach at New Mexico with 17 years of experience building successful programs at BYU and Virginia.
Challenges
- The team has consistently underperformed, ranking 118th out of 134 in RJ Young's college football rankings.
- New Mexico is ranked 12th in the Mountain West Conference.
- They face a tough schedule with seven games against teams that finished above .500 in 2023.
Offensive Outlook
Running Game
The Lobos ranked 11th in EPA per rush last season, but this was largely due to Jacory Croskey-Merritt, who is no longer with the team.
Schedule
- Season opener against Arizona on August 31, 2024.
- The schedule includes two games against teams with nine or more wins in the previous season.
Season Expectations
Win Total Odds
- Over 2 wins: -120
- Under 2 wins: -110
Coach's Challenge
Bronco Mendenhall faces a significant rebuilding task. His experience in turning around programs will be crucial for the Lobos' future success.
Overall Outlook
The 2024 season looks to be challenging for New Mexico. With a new coach, a historically struggling program, and a tough schedule, expectations are modest. The team's primary goal will likely be to show improvement and potentially exceed the projected two-win total. Mendenhall's experience and coaching acumen will be put to the test as he attempts to revitalize the Lobos' football program.
2024 Montana State Bobcats Football Outlook
2023 Season Performance
The Bobcats finished 8-4 last year, losing 35-34 in the FCS second round. This was considered a disappointing season given their high preseason expectations.
Coaching Staff
- Head Coach: Brent Vigen (4th year)
- Offensive Coordinator: Tyler Walker (1st season)
- Defensive Coordinator: Bobby Daly (1st season)
- Co-defensive Coordinator: Shawn Howe (1st season)
Key Players
Quarterback
Tommy Mellott (Sr.): Dual-threat QB with 2,474 career rushing yards and 3,241 passing yards. In 2023, he had 1,064 yards passing, 10 TDs, 2 INTs, and 689 yards rushing with 5 TDs in 9 games.
Running Backs
- Julius Davis (Sr.): Led team with 718 rushing yards and 6 TDs in 2023
- Jared White (So.): 524 yards, 4 TDs as a freshman
- Scottre Humphrey (So.): 441 yards, 8 TDs as a freshman
- Elijah Elliott (Sr.): 272 yards, 2 TDs in 2023
Defensive Standouts
- Brody Grebe (DE): All-American with 50 tackles, 13 TFLs, 9.5 sacks in 2023
- Kenneth Eiden IV (DE): 20 tackles, 5 sacks in 2023
- Danny Uluilakepa (LB): Multi-year starter, 59 tackles in 2023
- Rylan Ortt (S/Nickel): Led team in defensive snaps, 74 tackles in 2023
Strengths
1. Offensive Line: Returns five linemen with significant starting experience
2. Running Game: Ranked 2nd in FCS rushing (291.0 YPG) in 2023
3. Scoring Offense: Ranked 2nd in FCS (39.9 PPG) in 2023
4. Defensive Experience: Returns 4 of top 5 tacklers, 7 of top 11
Challenges
1. Special Teams: Struggled with field goals (52.6%) and PATs in 2023
2. Quarterback Health: Mellott has struggled with injuries in past seasons
3. Meeting High Expectations: Pressure to improve on 8-4 record from 2023
Schedule Highlights
- Season opener at New Mexico (FBS opponent) on August 31, 2024
- Four ranked opponents on the schedule, with three at home
- Annual rivalry game vs. Montana on November 23, 2024
Season Outlook
Montana State is ranked No. 4 in HERO Sports' FCS Preseason Top 25. The team has the potential to be a national title contender if they can stay healthy and improve on last year's performance. With a favorable schedule and returning talent, expectations are high for the Bobcats in 2024.
Win Total Prediction
Over/Under set at 10.5 regular-season wins. Given their talent and schedule, reaching 11 wins is achievable if they can overcome key challenges and perform consistently throughout the season.
2024 Nevada Wolf Pack Football Outlook
2023 Season Performance
The Nevada Wolf Pack had a challenging 2023 season, finishing with a disappointing 2-10 record. This marked the second consecutive season with such a record, indicating ongoing struggles within the program.
Coaching Staff
- Head Coach: Jeff Choate is entering his first year with the team, bringing fresh ideas and strategies to revitalize the program.
- Offensive Coordinator: Mike Lynch, also in his first season, will focus on improving the offensive output.
- Defensive Coordinator: Kane Ioane, in his first year, will aim to strengthen the defense.
Key Players
- Quarterback: Brendon Lewis, a redshirt junior and transfer from Colorado, will be pivotal in leading the offense and providing stability at the quarterback position.
- Running Back: Patrick Garwo III, a sixth-year player, is expected to be a key contributor in the running game, bringing experience and skill.
- Wide Receiver: Jaden Smith, a sixth-year receiver standing at 6'6", offers a significant target in the passing game and will be crucial for offensive production.
- Defense: Caine Savage, a fifth-year defensive back, will play a vital role in stabilizing the secondary and improving overall defensive performance.
Challenges
1. Offensive Struggles: The Wolf Pack averaged only 17.2 points per game in the previous season, highlighting a pressing need for improvement in offensive execution.
2. Defensive Weaknesses: Issues at defensive tackle could hinder the team’s ability to stop the run, creating vulnerabilities in their defense.
3. Difficult Schedule: Nevada faces a challenging slate, with many opponents having participated in bowl games the previous season, making every game a tough test.
Season Projections
- The team is projected to win around 3 to 4 games in total, with a focus on improving their conference record.
Best and Worst Case Scenarios
- Best-case scenario: The Wolf Pack could finish with a record of 7-6 overall and 4-3 in the Mountain West, showing significant improvements on both sides of the ball.
- Worst-case scenario: The team might struggle again, finishing with a record of 3-10 overall and 1-5 in the conference, continuing the trend of offensive and defensive challenges.
Season Outlook
The Nevada Wolf Pack enters the 2024 season with low expectations but the potential for improvement under new leadership. The success of the season will largely depend on the development of the offense and the ability to address defensive shortcomings. With a tough schedule ahead, achieving a .500 record would be a significant milestone for the Wolf Pack.
2024 SMU Mustangs Football Outlook
2023 Season Performance
SMU had a successful 2023 season, finishing with an 11-3 record and an 8-0 mark in the American Athletic Conference (AAC), winning the conference title in their final season before transitioning to the ACC.
Key Players
- Quarterback: Preston Stone returns as the starting quarterback after leading the Mustangs to a 10-2 record as a starter and throwing 28 touchdowns. His performance will be crucial to SMU's success in 2024.
- Running Backs: Jaylan Knighton and former five-star recruit Camar Wheaton are expected to be significant contributors in the running game, providing a strong backfield presence.
- Wide Receiver: Jordan Hudson is a key target in the passing game, known for his ability to stretch the field and take the top off defenses.
Coaching Staff
- Head Coach: Rhett Lashlee continues to lead the program, bringing an offensive-minded approach that has been effective in recent years.
Schedule and Conference Transition
- SMU is transitioning from the AAC to the ACC, which represents a step up in competition. Despite this, they have a favorable schedule, ranked 68th based on their ACC opponents' combined win total from the previous season.
- Key games include a home matchup against Florida State in Week 6, as well as challenging contests against BYU and TCU early in the season.
Season Projections
- SMU is ranked No. 32 in RJ Young's ultimate 134 college football rankings and is projected to finish 5th in the ACC.
- The Mustangs have a total win odds set at over 8 wins (-135) and under 8 wins (+115), indicating expectations for a strong season.
Challenges and Expectations
- While SMU has a talented roster, depth could be a concern, particularly as they face a tougher schedule in the ACC.
- The team's recent struggles against Power Conference teams (0-4 against BYU and 5-20 against TCU since 1997) highlight the challenge of competing at a higher level.
- The Mustangs are expected to be competitive in most games, with predictions ranging from 6-6 to potentially 9-3, depending on how they handle the transition and key matchups.
Overall, SMU enters the 2024 season with high expectations and the potential to make an impact in their new conference. The team's success will largely depend on the performance of key players like Preston Stone and their ability to adapt to the increased level of competition in the ACC.
2024 Hawaii Rainbow Warriors Football Outlook
2023 Season Performance
Hawaii finished the 2023 season with a record of 5-8, showing improvement from previous years. They ended the season strong by winning three of their last four games, including a notable upset victory over Air Force.
Coaching Staff
- Head Coach: Timmy Chang is in his third year and has shown modest improvement, increasing the team's win total from three to five in his first two seasons.
- Defensive Coordinator: Dennis Thurman, a veteran coach, has been brought in to strengthen the defense.
- Quarterbacks Coach: Dan Morrison, also a new addition, aims to enhance the passing game.
Key Players
- Quarterback: Brayden Schager returns as a key player, looking to lead the offense with a high-powered passing attack.
- Wide Receivers: Steven McBride and Pofele Ashlock are important targets, with McBride earning All-Mountain West Second Team honors in Defence
Defence: Defensive backs Peter Manua and Cam Stone provide strength in the secondary, which is expected to be a solid unit.
Challenges
1. While the passing game is a strength, establishing a consistent rushing attack will be crucial for a balanced offense.
2. Line Play: The performance of both the offensive and defensive lines will be key in determining the team's success and ability to reach a bowl game.
3. Tough Schedule: Hawaii faces a challenging schedule, including games against strong Mountain West opponents like Boise State and Fresno State.
Season Projections
- Win Total: The over/under for Hawaii's win total is set at 4.5, with expectations that they could exceed this and potentially reach six wins to qualify for a bowl game.
- Mountain West Title Odds: Hawaii's odds to win the Mountain West are +5000, indicating they are considered long shots for the conference title.
Key Games
- Non-Conference Matchups: Hawaii starts the season against Delaware State, UCLA, and Sam Houston, with opportunities to build early momentum.
- Mountain West Contests: Key games include matchups against Nevada, New Mexico, and potential upsets against San Diego State and Utah State.
Season Outlook
The Hawaii Rainbow Warriors enter the 2024 season with cautious optimism. Under Timmy Chang's leadership, the team aims to continue improving and potentially qualify for a bowl game for the first time since 2020. Success will depend on maintaining their strong passing game, improving the rushing attack, and performing well against a challenging schedule. If they can carry the momentum from the end of the 2023 season, Hawaii has a chance to exceed expectations and achieve a .500 record or better.
2024 Delaware State Hornets Football Outlook
Conference and Team Overview
Delaware State University is a member of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC). They play their home games at Alumni Stadium in Dover, Delaware, which has a capacity of 8,000.
Key Players
- Linebacker: Charles Brown, Jr., a redshirt junior from Edgewood, Maryland, brings experience and leadership to the defense.
- Running Back: Jaden Sutton, a graduate student from Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is expected to be a key contributor in the backfield.
- Wide Receiver: Jordan Hull, another graduate student, hails from Zionsville, Indiana, and will be a primary target in the passing game.
- Quarterback: Marqui Adams, a redshirt sophomore from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, will be a crucial player in leading the offense.
Schedule Highlights
- Season Opener: Delaware State starts their season on August 24, 2024, with an away game against Hawaii.
- Non-Conference Games: They will face Sacred Heart, Wagner, Richmond, and Campbell in their non-conference schedule.
- Conference Play: Key MEAC matchups include games against Morgan State, Norfolk State, and North Carolina Central.
Challenges and Opportunities
- Travel: The season opener at Hawaii presents a significant travel challenge, which could impact performance.
- Building Momentum: Early non-conference games provide opportunities to build momentum before entering MEAC play.
- Improving Performance: The Hornets will aim to improve upon previous seasons and compete more effectively within the MEAC.
Season Outlook
Delaware State will look to leverage the experience of key players like Charles Brown, Jr., and Jaden Sutton to improve their standing in the MEAC. With a mix of challenging non-conference opponents and pivotal conference games, the Hornets have opportunities to develop and potentially exceed expectations in the 2024 season. Success will depend on their ability to perform consistently and capitalize on key matchups throughout the year.
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