By DAVID COOK
Central Michigan University closed strong last year by winning its final three games to finish with a .500 record. The Chippewas need a strong start to put themselves in a position for a winning record and a bowl game this year.
OFFENSE: Central enjoys the luxury of a veteran quarterback in sophomore Cooper Rush. Rush started the last 10 games and passed for over 2,300 yards and 15 touchdowns. Challenging Rush for the job is senior Cody Kater, who missed almost all of last season with an injury. Senior wide receiver Titus Davis is a three-time all-MAC player who considered the NFL draft last spring. At running back, junior Saylor Lavallii rushed for over 800 yards, while University of Michigan transfer Thomas Rawls will further power the ground game. The offensive line also returns plenty of experience.
DEFENSE: The defense allowed 28 points per game last season, but with a large number of players back, improvement is expected. The return of a healthy Jabari Dean will help an improving defensive front, while senior linebacker Justin Cherocci has led the team in tackles the past two years.
OUR TAKE: The offense will be potent enough, the unknown is how much the defense can improve. The schedule sets up well for the Chippewas, who are capable of a winning season if the defense can show marked improvement.
Menu