Nick Gerogosian is the MAC Daddy – see the rest of his Mid-American Conference coverage at VandelaySports.com

Eric Page (12) of the Toledo Rockets should burn brightly again in 2010. (Scout.com)

AkronRB Alex Allen was awarded a sixth year of eligibility which provides more depth for new coach Rob Ianello and his staff.  The Zips now return five of their top six rushers from a year ago.  WR Jeremy LaFrance is the only receiver returning with significant production a year ago.  Defensively Akron returns eight starters including most of their defensive front line.  Almondo Sewell is a proven force to build a defense around along with LB Brian Wagner.  QB Matt Rodgers returns after an injury riddled 2009 season.

Ball State

PK Jake Hogue has left the program.  RB MiQuale Lewis earned a medical waiver for an additional year of eligibility due to a torn ACL in 2007.  With the return of Lewis, the RB stable is quite impressive now.  Along with Lewis, there are proven players Cory Sykes, Eric Williams and David Brown returning at RB.  Three quality offensive linemen return in Cameron Lowry, Michael Switzer and Kreg Hunter.  The Cards must replace the right side of the O-line.  The QB derby could get interesting with three very talented and capable prospects, the incumbent Kelly Page, and hotshot freshmen Aaron Mershman and Keith Wenning.  Ball State signed six DBs who will be entering the program this fall.

The Falcons need to replace 16 starters including quarterback Tyler Sheehan and record-setting wide receiver Freddie Barnes.  In addition, BG must replace all three linebackers and three members of the secondary. Altogether the team graduated 22 seniors.  The four players looking to become the new QB are sophomore Aaron Pankratz; redshirt freshmen Matt Schilz and Kellen Pagel; and true freshman Caleb Watkins.  At this point in time, none have established themselves as “the guy.”  The defensive line was the weakest link for the Falcons last season now may become the strength after the graduation of three starting linebackers and three starters in the secondary.  The players being counted on in the defensive trenches are Kevin Alvarado, Chris Jones and Jordan Roussus.

Read the rest of this entry →