The Broncos now must move forward without record-setting QB Tim Hiller who graduated and signed with the Indianapolis Colts.  RB Brandon West became a staple to the offense too over the past few seasons, leaving as the all-time all-purpose yardage leader in football history.

WMU Coach Bill Cubit welcomes his new offensive players with open arms (Icon SMI)

Even with those 2009 standout players, something was missing.

The Broncos finished 21st in the nation in passing offense last season but just 80th in scoring offense.  Defensively the Broncos ended up 101st nationally in total defense and 77th in scoring defense.  The net-net was a disappointing 5-7 season for a team that should have contended for a MAC championship.

Former Hofstra head coach Dave Cohen is the new defensive coordinator at Western after the school dropped football during the offseason.

The Team

Alex Carder, Drew Burdi and Tyler Van Tubbergen will via for the open QB slot.  Carder appeared in nine games last year but attempted only seven passes.  Losing Brandon West and his 1,164 yards will hurt a rushing attack that wasn’t very good to begin with; Aaron Winchester looks to be the starter even though he averaged just 3.2 yards per carry last season.  No matter who is throwing the ball, Western is loaded at WR, namely Robert Arnheim, Juan Nunez Jordan White and Chleb Ravenell.  The offensive line will be a work in progress with only two starters returning.  With three unproven sophomores listed as starters, it could be a rough early season for whoever wins the QB spot.

The defensive line is led JUCO transfer John Rice, cousin of NFL hall-of-fame receiver Jerry Rice.  Deauntay Legrier is a force at LB while safeties Jamail Berry and Doug Wiggins offer stability for defensive backfield.  Ansel Ponder and Jordan White are splendid return specialists.

The Verdict Read the rest of this entry →