My 6th annual CFB preview thread (Part 1)

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

Marshall

Preview segment: The Marshall Thundering Herd

Last season: Another rock-solid season for the Thundering Herd, as they went 9-4 with a bowl victory. Also, some young talent emerged like QB Isaiah Green which is pointing towards a C-USA title in 2019.

Good news: If Isaiah cuts down on his turnovers, the Herd's offensive attack will become even more lethal as they have two proud RB's [Branden Knox and Tyler King] and a O-line that returns 4 starters.

Bad news: Wide receiver is a bit of an unknown thanks to Tyre Brady leaving, and the defense needs to stay healthy as the depth is not good over there.

Key games:
9/6 @ Boise State (Oooooo... Marshall will have a chance to make QUITE a statement among-st it's fellow "Group of 5" schools this September. First, they'll visit a Boise team that'll be missing their QB but will return almost everyone else.)
9/14 vs. Ohio (Then, they'll host an old rival [and a favorite in the MAC] for the first time in 4 years.)
9/28 vs. Cincinnati (And finally after a week off, it's a visit from a reborn Cincinnati team.)
10/5 @ Middle Tennessee (Sadly for the Blue Raiders, that means Marshall will be all toughen up for this important conference opener.)
11/30 vs. Florida International (Marshall costed FIU the East division title last year in Miami. In this rematch in Huntington, the Herd could do it again [and win the East in the process].)

Bottom line: In terms of true contenders in the C-USA East, Marshall and FIU seems to have the least questions entering the season. Pay attention to Marshall's non-conference games; they'll show how good Marshall really will be in 2019. If Isaiah Green and crew takes at least one or two games from that slate, it'll bode well for their C-USA title chances.

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

Western Kentucky

Preview segment: The Western Kentucky Hilltoppers

Last season: Western Kentucky has had a run of hiring good coaches over the last several years; Willie Taggart, Bobby Petrino, and Jeff Brohm. Then it all ended with Mike Sanford, who was fired last year after a 3-9 mark. Now with new coach Tyson Helton, the Hilltoppers hope to start their run of success over again.

Good news: Tyson inherits a roster with a lot of returning starters [17 to be exact]. This includes a veteren secondary, a fearsome pass-rushing duo up front [DeAngelo Moore and Juwuan Jones], and a O-line that has all of it's starters back.

Bad news: QB Steven Duncan is back, but his starting job is anything but secure unless he steps up his production. But linebacker is WKU's biggest concern; the position is thin and untested.

Key games:
9/7 @ Florida International (Yes, the game's in Miami. But how big would it be for the Hilltoppers and their coach if their defense springs a surprise?)
9/14 vs. Louisville [From Nashville] (Don't scoff at this one; Western Kentucky almost stunned the Cardinals last year in Louisville.)
10/19 vs. Charlotte (An important contest for WKU to improve their bowl chances.)
11/2 vs. Florida Atlantic (See above game.)
11/30 vs. Middle Tennessee (In the 69th installment of this rivalry, BOTH of these teams might be fighting for a bowl spot.)

Bottom line: The hope for the Hilltoppers this year is that the new coaching staff keeps their promise of getting more points. If they do that [and the middle of the defense doesn't suck], a bowl berth is the goal for WKU this year as the climb back up begins.

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

Louisiana Tech

The last preview segment for Conference USA: The Louisiana Tech Bulldogs

Last season: Yet another good season for the Bulldogs as they went 8-5 with another bowl victory. Yet a few fans in Ruston are now getting anxious for La-Tech to win a conference championship. Well, Skip Holtz is a constant winner, so that goal is again within reach.

Bad news: But the defense is missing some big names; Jaylon Ferguson [the NCAA's career sack leader] being one of them as he's now with the NFL Ravens. Special teams could also be an adventure.

Good news: J'Mar Smith is back for one more year, and he should be pushed to do better by the depth at his position. WR Adrian Hardy is also back to spearhead the passing attack, and the secondary has experience.

2019 X-factor: New defensive coordinator Bob Diaco- With Blake Baker now calling defensive plays at Miami, former UConn coach Bob Diaco will step in. I heard he'll be scaling back some of the aggressiveness of La-Tech's defensive schemes, and C-USA fans should pay attention to how far he goes.

Key games:
9/21 vs. Florida International (Enjoy this oddity, folks: A La-Tech vs. FIU game that actually MATTERS [thanks in no small part to the QB's].)
10/19 vs. Southern Miss (Losing a 21-20 heartbreaker to the Golden Eagles ruined La-Tech's chances for the West division last year.)
11/9 vs. North Texas (November is where La-Tech's fate will be decided. It starts when the Bulldogs host the favorites in the West...)
11/16 @ Marshall (...before consecutive road games with the favorites in the East division...)
11/23 @ UAB (...and then the defending conference champs.)

Bottom line: Once again, Skip Holtz will have his team right in the middle of the West division race. And since they host North Texas and Southern Miss, things look good for the Bulldogs in 2019. HOW good it'll be will depend on the defense and all of it's new faces.

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

Conference USA predictions

So before I go off and start sorting out the Mountain West, here's how I see Conference USA going down in 2019:

East Division:
1. Florida International (Conference champs)
2. Marshall
3. Florida Atlantic
4. Middle Tennessee
5. Western Kentucky
6. Charlotte
7. Old Dominion

West Division:
1. North Texas
2. Southern Miss
3. Louisiana Tech
4. UAB
5. UTSA
6. UTEP
7. Rice

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

Hawaii

The first preview segment for the Mountain West: The Hawaii Rainbow Warriors

Last season: It turns out that 2017 was just a transitional year for Hawaii; an improvement on offense allowed the Warriors to snag 8 wins. Now with most of that team returning, I'm being tempted to pick Hawaii for the West division this year.

Good news: Part of that reason is the 18 starters returning which includes QB Cole McDonald [and his 3,875 passing yards from a year ago], speedy WR's, a hopeful defense and a solid kicking game.

Bad news: By hopeful defense, I mean "let's hope they do better defending the run". Oh, and forcing more turnovers will be key, especially with a harder schedule [including playing 3 straight PAC-12 teams] staring Hawaii in the face.

Key games:
8/24 vs. Arizona (Don't worry, Warriors. Despite the hard slate, I still think you got a shot against the Wildcats...)
9/7 vs. Oregon State (...and then later against the Beavers.)
10/12 @ Boise State (After dodging the Broncos for the last 2 years, Hawaii must travel to Boise [where they have never won].)
11/2 vs. Fresno State (Some more encouraging news for Hawaii: They DO get to host the defending conference champs.)
11/23 vs. San Diego State (This was the only bowl team Hawaii beat last year [31-30 in OT].)

Bottom line: On paper, Hawaii should be the favorite to win the West division. Their offense is returning to normal, there's hope for defensive improvement, and they're actually keeping their QB [unlike Fresno or San Diego]. But the schedule is much harder than 2018's and Fresno won't be giving the division up without a fight.
If the Warriors manage to navigate the schedule, I expect them to stay in the Mountain West race until the very end.

 

[jwolt92]

Hawaii

The first preview segment for the Mountain West: The Hawaii Rainbow Warriors

Last season: It turns out that 2017 was just a transitional year for Hawaii; an improvement on offense allowed the Warriors to snag 8 wins. Now with most of that team returning, I'm being tempted to pick Hawaii for the West division this year.

Good news: Part of that reason is the 18 starters returning which includes QB Cole McDonald [and his 3,875 passing yards from a year ago], speedy WR's, a hopeful defense and a solid kicking game.

Bad news: By hopeful defense, I mean "let's hope they do better defending the run". Oh, and forcing more turnovers will be key, especially with a harder schedule [including playing 3 straight PAC-12 teams] staring Hawaii in the face.

Key games:
8/24 vs. Arizona (Don't worry, Warriors. Despite the hard slate, I still think you got a shot against the Wildcats...)
9/7 vs. Oregon State (...and then later against the Beavers.)
10/12 @ Boise State (After dodging the Broncos for the last 2 years, Hawaii must travel to Boise [where they have never won].)
11/2 vs. Fresno State (Some more encouraging news for Hawaii: They DO get to host the defending conference champs.)
11/23 vs. San Diego State (This was the only bowl team Hawaii beat last year [31-30 in OT].)

Bottom line: On paper, Hawaii should be the favorite to win the West division. Their offense is returning to normal, there's hope for defensive improvement, and they're actually keeping their QB [unlike Fresno or San Diego]. But the schedule is much harder than 2018's and Fresno won't be giving the division up without a fight.
If the Warriors manage to navigate the schedule, I expect them to stay in the Mountain West race until the very end.

Do you write for r/cfb? Saw a preview of them on there this morning that was very similar

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

Air Force

Preview segment: The Air Force Falcons

Last season: 2018 was more aggravating than anything else for Air Force; they were competitive in nearly every game they played. But predictable play calling and turnovers doomed the Falcons to a 5-7 record and no Commander-in-Chief's trophy, and now pressure is building on Troy Calhoun to fix things.

Good news: Luckily, Calhoun has a lot of things working for him, starting with QB Donald Hammond III; when Donald is upright, he can make plays. The O-line returns 4 starters, and the secondary has some playmakers.

Bad news: That's strange; the Falcons has their usual array of RB's, but none of them really jump out as a home-run threat. Air Force also could do a better job defending against the pass.

Key games:
9/14 @ Colorado (Much like Hawaii, Air Force's first 3 games are tough with games at Boise State and against a good FCS team in Colgate... with this big in-state contest right in the middle.)
10/5 @ Navy (Just know this, Falcons: In 2019, Navy will most likely be a lot better than the 3-10 squad you pasted 35-7 last October.)
10/12 vs. Fresno State (Huh. Air Force has actually beaten Fresno State the last 2 times they've met. Problem is, Fresno's now WAY healthier than they were in 2015 and 2016.)
10/26 vs. Utah State (If the Falcons truly want to compete in the Mountain division, then they need to beat Jordan Love and the Aggies.)
11/2 vs. Army (A 4th-down stop denied Air Force the Commander-in-Chief's trophy last year as Army won 17-14. Expect fireworks when these two rivals meet again.)

Bottom line: Things are a little antsy right now in Colorado Springs, but the Falcons has the pieces to return to a bowl and settle things down. Oh, and getting back the Commander-in-Chief's trophy wouldn't hurt for the Falcons's psyche, too.

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

Do you write for r/cfb? Saw a preview of them on there this morning that was very similar

Yeah, that was me. I just joined Reddit a couple of weeks ago; it was the idea of my oldest brother Eric.

 

[jwolt92]

Yeah, that was me. I just joined Reddit a couple of weeks ago; it was the idea of my oldest brother Eric.

A very solid addition to r/cfb

 

[UCFhonors]

This is very good stuff.

Look forward to the other posts.

#UCFacts

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

San Jose State

Preview segment: The San Jose State Spartans

Last season: Fun times are happening right now on Reddit! When I posted my first two Mountain West previews up there, my score went from "4 Karma" to "30 Karma" overnight!
Sadly for San Jose State, there were very few of these small pleasures in the 2018 season as they went 1-11.

Good news: An experienced O-line should help QB Josh Love and the San Jose offense put up more points.

Bad news: The Spartans has to fill some big holes in the D-line, and the secondary needs to step up.

Key games:
8/29 vs. Northern Colorado (Just know that San Jose doesn't want to lose to the FCS again [like last year against UC-Davis].)
9/7 vs. Tulsa (If the defense does well, this game is winnable for San Jose.)
10/5 vs. New Mexico (See above game.)
10/19 vs. San Diego State (The Spartans pushed the rival Aztecs HARD last year, losing only by 3 points. What will happen when this rivalry resumes in San Jose?)

Bottom line: You know, San Jose's prospects doesn't look as bad as it's been the last few years. But let's hope that a more veteran team can help San Jose learn how to win, because if not we can ignore them again.

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

New Mexico

Preview segment: The New Mexico Lobos

Last season: A tough 3-9 season. But hey, at least Bob Davie kept his job! Wait... wasn't it because the university simply couldn't afford his contract buyout?

Good news: Both lines have a fair amount of experience, and the controversy that had surrounded the team the last two years looks to have died down.

Bad news: The defense only returns 2 starters, and the running game's numbers had plummeted over the last 2 years; it must be fixed and quick.

Key games:
9/21 vs. New Mexico State (This will be the 110th time that these 2 rivals will face each other.)
10/5 @ San Jose State (This looks like the only winnable road game for the Lobos in 2019.)
10/12 vs. Colorado State (In 2018, the Lobos started out okay at 3-3. Then they lost to the Rams 20-18, and they were never the same as they dropped their last 5 games.)
11/30 vs. Utah State (This year's Senior Day should be a happy one for the Lobos, 'cause one of 2 things will happen: They'll either stun the team that creamed them 61-19 last year, or they'll say goodbye to their head coach.)

Bottom line: Bob Davie has 2 new coordinators this season, and he's hoping they can help him get back some positive vibes in Albuquerque. If the Lobos gets their run game going again, they'll have a chance. But if not, wave bye-bye to the Bob Davie era in New Mexico!

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

Boise State

Preview segment: The Boise State Broncos

Last season: This was another year of up's and down's for this proud program. On one hand, players like RB Alexander Mattison and QB Brett Rypian helped lead Boise to yet another 10-win season. On the other hand, they lost the Mountain West title to Fresno State and their bowl game got cancelled due to bad weather. Now with Rypian gone, I can't seem to get a good read on these guys.

Bad news: Not only is Rypian gone, but so is Mattison. And worse, it looks like the new starters at the QB and RB positions won't be locked down until the fall. Plus, Boise's defensive coordinator left for the Oregon Ducks.

Good news: Other than that, everything actually looks good. The new QB will have an assortment of WR's and a experienced O-line waiting for him. 9 returning players with starting experience will help smooth things over on defense, and trust me: The Boise State special teams WILL be better this season (they can't get any worse!).

Key games:
8/31 vs. Florida State [in Jacksonville] (In this 1st-ever meeting between these schools, Broncos fans are hoping that their defense will be enough to surprise everyone in Jacksonville.)
10/19 @ BYU (This could be an upset in the making if Boise underestimates BYU's quarterbacks.)
11/23 @ Utah State (This looks like the only real challenger Boise will have in their division... and by November 23rd Jordan Love will have his supporting cast in Logan, Utah rolling.)

Bottom line: Huh... I was only able to come up with 3 "key games" for Boise in 2019. I guess that means that Boise's schedule will be pretty easy, which will help the new stars on Boise's offense to develop. And besides, nobody in the Mountain West (other than maybe Fresno) will have this much overall talent on their roster.
If Boise keeps it together, they'll once again be the favorite in their conference for another year.

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

Colorado State

Preview segment: The Colorado State Rams

Last season: Colorado State's run of consecutive bowl appearances imploded last season. Not just "ended", but imploded as the Rams went 3-9 [with a loss to FCS Illinois State] thanks to a crap defense.

Good news: At least CSU can always rely on their passing game; QB Collin Hill has secured the starting job and his WR's are talented and strong. Oh, and how about the unselfishness of coach Mike Bobo? He refused a $100,000 raise because he KNEW that after the 2018 season he HAD to fix things and not get greedy.

Bad news: Among-st the problems Mike must fix is a defense that finished 111th overall last year [but should be healthier this time] and a run game that could suck again thanks to holes on the O-line and no proven playmakers at RB.

Key games:
8/30 vs. Colorado [in Denver] (Mike Bobo will once again try to get his 1st win against rival Colorado.)
9/7 vs. Western Illinois (I hope that the Rams will handle their FCS opponent this time.)
9/29 @ Utah State, and 10/5 vs. San Diego State (I couldn't decide which of these conference games were bigger, so I lumped the two together. If the Rams manage to beat either of these teams, it'll bode well for them.)
11/16 vs. Air Force (The end of CSU's season will be busy, as they'll have back-to-back rivalry games with the Falcons...)
11/23 @ Wyoming (...and the Cowboys, before they finish with a home game at Boise State.)

Bottom line: Whoops! I almost forgot; the Rams also must visit Fresno State and a very-mad Arkansas team [that they beat last year]. So getting back to a bowl game will not be east for Colorado State in 2019 unless the defense improves. But at least with their passing game, the Rams will be a tough out.

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

Wyoming

Preview segment: The Wyoming Cowboys

Last season: I know that Craig Bohl had to be pretty upset over Wyoming not making a bowl in 2018. But at least the Cowboys ended the season on a 4-game winning streak to get to 6-6.

Bad news: The Cowboys will be replacing some key players from a year ago, including their leading pass-rusher, 2 of their proudest safeties, and RB Nico Evans [last year's leading rusher in the Mountain West].

Good news: The O-line may be young, but it's got experience which should help Wyoming's run game. The defense has some good linebackers, and the kicking game is solid as a rock.

2019 X-factor: QB Sean Chambers- It looks like this redshirt freshmen will be the starting QB for Wyoming after a strong spring. Chambers has a good skill set, but his style of play is different than those's of incumbent Tyler Vandel Weel. I'll be watching to see how this plays out.

Key games:
8/31 vs. Missouri (Piece of advice for you, Wyoming. Ignore that whole mess with the Tigers's problem with the NCAA and that bowl ban, and just focus on shutting down that Missouri attack.)
9/28 vs. UNLV (Wyoming could be 3-1 entering this big conference opener.)
10/26 vs. Nevada (These infrequent opponents will meet in a swing game for each team's bowl chances.)
11/23 vs. Colorado State (The Cowboys will look to keep the "Bronze Boot" in Laramie for the 4th straight year.)

Bottom line: With a hard November (including trips to Boise State and Utah State) staring Wyoming in the face, it is imperative that the Cowboys settle on their QB quick. A bowl game is within Wyoming's reach if they do, especially if their defense steps up too.

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

Nevada

Preview segment: The Nevada Wolfpack

Last season: Really? Nevada has NEVER had a winning record in the Mountain West since they joined it in 2012?! ...Well, that's ancient history now as Nevada had a surprisingly good 2018 with a 8-win season and a Arizona Bowl victory. In fact, the only thing that truly went wrong for the Wolfpack last year was losing that "Fremont Cannon" to UNLV.

Bad news: Much like Wyoming, Nevada has uncertainty at quarterback after Ty Gangi left; there'll be 3 men fighting for the job this summer. Also gone are most of their good safeties and a good chuck of their O-line.

Good news: Freshmen sensation RB Toa Taua and a deep WR group should help this "Air Raid" offense stay on track. The defense is slowly getting better, and so is Nevada's overall team depth.

2019 X-factor: QB Malik Henry- In spring camp, he established himself as the team's most gifted QB. But he's got himself some baggage (watch Netflix's "Last Chance U" to see what I mean), so we'll see how coach Jay Norvell plays this hand.

Key games:
8/30 vs. Purdue (This is a nationally-televised opener on a Friday night, and it SHOULD help decide if Nevada is gonna be a real threat in 2019.)
10/19 @ Utah State (In the last 3 times these two teams met, they've all been 1-possession games.)
11/23 @ Fresno State (Nevada's road slate is tough with games at Oregon, at San Diego State, and then this contest in Fresno. But hey, at least Nevada gets 2 weeks to prep for this.)
11/30 vs. UNLV (These 2 rivals have split their last 6 meetings. Oh, and if Nevada gets revenge on the Rebels this year, maybe they'll get UNLV's coach fired. It could happen...)

Bottom line: After 2018's breakthrough, Nevada is now hoping to get good enough to challenge for the "New Year's Six" in the near future. But with questions at key areas and a hard road slate, I think the Wolfpack should just settle for going back to a bowl this year.

 

[Dolgevillefootballfan]

San Diego State

Preview segment: The San Diego State Aztecs

Last season: Despite SDSU scoring big wins over Arizona State and Boise State, fans and critics alike were getting worried about the Aztecs' lack of offensive zing in 2018. Those concerns turned out to be well founded as a 7-2 start evaporated with a 4 game losing streak (which included a 27-0 bowl loss to f--king Ohio). Now the kids in San Diego are changing stuff around in hopes that they can unseat Fresno.

2019 X-factor: QB Ryan Agnew- Don't get me wrong, Ryan's a capable QB. It's just that this summer, Rocky Long and his staff are installing a new spread attack into the offense. The quicker Ryan learns and masters those new plays, the better off the Aztec passing attack will be.

Bad news: Not here to help with this transition is Ryan's top target from a year ago (TE Kahale Warring) and his most productive WR (Fred Trevillion). The defense returns only 2 starters...

Good news: ...but wait a minute! Most of these new guys DO have some starting experience and some good stats. RB Juwan Washington is back from injury, and expect him to be used in a LOT of key roles.

Key games:
9/7 @ UCLA (UCLA is still rebuilding under Chip Kelly, so maybe SDSU can finally score that long-awaited 1st win over the Bruins.)
9/21 vs. Utah State (On that note, the Aztecs have only lost to Utah State once all-time.)
11/9 vs. Nevada (Losing 28-24 to Nevada wasn't part of last year's slide, but it certainly got the ball rolling for SDSU's fall.)
11/16 vs. Fresno State (Trust me: This in-state rivalry game WILL have a say in whoever wins the West division... again.)

Bottom line: If I'm honest, the West division looks like it'll be a crap-shoot between Hawaii, Fresno State, and San Diego State this year. So if everyone on the Aztecs learns these new schemes quickly, they'll be right in the mix for the West division title and maybe the conference crown. It helps that Nevada and Fresno are coming to SDCCU this time.

 

[BoiseStateFan27]

God bless you. Writing about teams like the University of Texas El Paso Miners and University of Texas San Antonio Roadrunners. I got a lot of respect for you man.

I always found a lot of fun to use these previews as an opportunity to dive into teams that you normally wouldn't pay attention to (and probably won't again once the season starts)

I've been reading up when I can this year

 

[BoiseStateFan27]

Hawaii

The first preview segment for the Mountain West: The Hawaii Rainbow Warriors

Last season: It turns out that 2017 was just a transitional year for Hawaii; an improvement on offense allowed the Warriors to snag 8 wins. Now with most of that team returning, I'm being tempted to pick Hawaii for the West division this year.

Good news: Part of that reason is the 18 starters returning which includes QB Cole McDonald [and his 3,875 passing yards from a year ago], speedy WR's, a hopeful defense and a solid kicking game.

Bad news: By hopeful defense, I mean "let's hope they do better defending the run". Oh, and forcing more turnovers will be key, especially with a harder schedule [including playing 3 straight PAC-12 teams] staring Hawaii in the face.

Key games:
8/24 vs. Arizona (Don't worry, Warriors. Despite the hard slate, I still think you got a shot against the Wildcats...)
9/7 vs. Oregon State (...and then later against the Beavers.)
10/12 @ Boise State (After dodging the Broncos for the last 2 years, Hawaii must travel to Boise [where they have never won].)
11/2 vs. Fresno State (Some more encouraging news for Hawaii: They DO get to host the defending conference champs.)
11/23 vs. San Diego State (This was the only bowl team Hawaii beat last year [31-30 in OT].)

Bottom line: On paper, Hawaii should be the favorite to win the West division. Their offense is returning to normal, there's hope for defensive improvement, and they're actually keeping their QB [unlike Fresno or San Diego]. But the schedule is much harder than 2018's and Fresno won't be giving the division up without a fight.
If the Warriors manage to navigate the schedule, I expect them to stay in the Mountain West race until the very end.

Hawai'i being good is always fun, especially when we get to destroy their hopes

Air Force

Preview segment: The Air Force Falcons

Last season: 2018 was more aggravating than anything else for Air Force; they were competitive in nearly every game they played. But predictable play calling and turnovers doomed the Falcons to a 5-7 record and no Commander-in-Chief's trophy, and now pressure is building on Troy Calhoun to fix things.

Good news: Luckily, Calhoun has a lot of things working for him, starting with QB Donald Hammond III; when Donald is upright, he can make plays. The O-line returns 4 starters, and the secondary has some playmakers.

Bad news: That's strange; the Falcons has their usual array of RB's, but none of them really jump out as a home-run threat. Air Force also could do a better job defending against the pass.

Key games:
9/14 @ Colorado (Much like Hawaii, Air Force's first 3 games are tough with games at Boise State and against a good FCS team in Colgate... with this big in-state contest right in the middle.)
10/5 @ Navy (Just know this, Falcons: In 2019, Navy will most likely be a lot better than the 3-10 squad you pasted 35-7 last October.)
10/12 vs. Fresno State (Huh. Air Force has actually beaten Fresno State the last 2 times they've met. Problem is, Fresno's now WAY healthier than they were in 2015 and 2016.)
10/26 vs. Utah State (If the Falcons truly want to compete in the Mountain division, then they need to beat Jordan Love and the Aggies.)
11/2 vs. Army (A 4th-down stop denied Air Force the Commander-in-Chief's trophy last year as Army won 17-14. Expect fireworks when these two rivals meet again.)

Bottom line: Things are a little antsy right now in Colorado Springs, but the Falcons has the pieces to return to a bowl and settle things down. Oh, and getting back the Commander-in-Chief's trophy wouldn't hurt for the Falcons's psyche, too.

Air Force looks ready to improve this year

San Jose State

Preview segment: The San Jose State Spartans

Last season: Fun times are happening right now on Reddit! When I posted my first two Mountain West previews up there, my score went from "4 Karma" to "30 Karma" overnight!
Sadly for San Jose State, there were very few of these small pleasures in the 2018 season as they went 1-11.

Good news: An experienced O-line should help QB Josh Love and the San Jose offense put up more points.

Bad news: The Spartans has to fill some big holes in the D-line, and the secondary needs to step up.

Key games:
8/29 vs. Northern Colorado (Just know that San Jose doesn't want to lose to the FCS again [like last year against UC-Davis].)
9/7 vs. Tulsa (If the defense does well, this game is winnable for San Jose.)
10/5 vs. New Mexico (See above game.)
10/19 vs. San Diego State (The Spartans pushed the rival Aztecs HARD last year, losing only by 3 points. What will happen when this rivalry resumes in San Jose?)

Bottom line: You know, San Jose's prospects doesn't look as bad as it's been the last few years. But let's hope that a more veteran team can help San Jose learn how to win, because if not we can ignore them again.

Kick San Jose State out of the Mountain West

New Mexico

Preview segment: The New Mexico Lobos

Last season: A tough 3-9 season. But hey, at least Bob Davie kept his job! Wait... wasn't it because the university simply couldn't afford his contract buyout?

Good news: Both lines have a fair amount of experience, and the controversy that had surrounded the team the last two years looks to have died down.

Bad news: The defense only returns 2 starters, and the running game's numbers had plummeted over the last 2 years; it must be fixed and quick.

Key games:
9/21 vs. New Mexico State (This will be the 110th time that these 2 rivals will face each other.)
10/5 @ San Jose State (This looks like the only winnable road game for the Lobos in 2019.)
10/12 vs. Colorado State (In 2018, the Lobos started out okay at 3-3. Then they lost to the Rams 20-18, and they were never the same as they dropped their last 5 games.)
11/30 vs. Utah State (This year's Senior Day should be a happy one for the Lobos, 'cause one of 2 things will happen: They'll either stun the team that creamed them 61-19 last year, or they'll say goodbye to their head coach.)

Bottom line: Bob Davie has 2 new coordinators this season, and he's hoping they can help him get back some positive vibes in Albuquerque. If the Lobos gets their run game going again, they'll have a chance. But if not, wave bye-bye to the Bob Davie era in New Mexico!

It was pretty amazing what Bob Davie did at New Mexico, he hit a real nice peak a few years ago and then off-field problems happened shortly after, destroying all the good momentum the problem had. Once it's lost, it's really difficult to get back

Boise State

Preview segment: The Boise State Broncos

Last season: This was another year of up's and down's for this proud program. On one hand, players like RB Alexander Mattison and QB Brett Rypian helped lead Boise to yet another 10-win season. On the other hand, they lost the Mountain West title to Fresno State and their bowl game got cancelled due to bad weather. Now with Rypian gone, I can't seem to get a good read on these guys.

Bad news: Not only is Rypian gone, but so is Mattison. And worse, it looks like the new starters at the QB and RB positions won't be locked down until the fall. Plus, Boise's defensive coordinator left for the Oregon Ducks.

Good news: Other than that, everything actually looks good. The new QB will have an assortment of WR's and a experienced O-line waiting for him. 9 returning players with starting experience will help smooth things over on defense, and trust me: The Boise State special teams WILL be better this season (they can't get any worse!).

Key games:
8/31 vs. Florida State [in Jacksonville] (In this 1st-ever meeting between these schools, Broncos fans are hoping that their defense will be enough to surprise everyone in Jacksonville.)
10/19 @ BYU (This could be an upset in the making if Boise underestimates BYU's quarterbacks.)
11/23 @ Utah State (This looks like the only real challenger Boise will have in their division... and by November 23rd Jordan Love will have his supporting cast in Logan, Utah rolling.)

Bottom line: Huh... I was only able to come up with 3 "key games" for Boise in 2019. I guess that means that Boise's schedule will be pretty easy, which will help the new stars on Boise's offense to develop. And besides, nobody in the Mountain West (other than maybe Fresno) will have this much overall talent on their roster.
If Boise keeps it together, they'll once again be the favorite in their conference for another year.

We are completely clueless on how to stop Kendal Briles' offense, the opener won't be good (at least it will be nice to be down in Florida)

We'll find a MWC game to lose also

 

[BoiseStateFan27]

Colorado State

Preview segment: The Colorado State Rams

Last season: Colorado State's run of consecutive bowl appearances imploded last season. Not just "ended", but imploded as the Rams went 3-9 [with a loss to FCS Illinois State] thanks to a crap defense.

Good news: At least CSU can always rely on their passing game; QB Collin Hill has secured the starting job and his WR's are talented and strong. Oh, and how about the unselfishness of coach Mike Bobo? He refused a $100,000 raise because he KNEW that after the 2018 season he HAD to fix things and not get greedy.

Bad news: Among-st the problems Mike must fix is a defense that finished 111th overall last year [but should be healthier this time] and a run game that could suck again thanks to holes on the O-line and no proven playmakers at RB.

Key games:
8/30 vs. Colorado [in Denver] (Mike Bobo will once again try to get his 1st win against rival Colorado.)
9/7 vs. Western Illinois (I hope that the Rams will handle their FCS opponent this time.)
9/29 @ Utah State, and 10/5 vs. San Diego State (I couldn't decide which of these conference games were bigger, so I lumped the two together. If the Rams manage to beat either of these teams, it'll bode well for them.)
11/16 vs. Air Force (The end of CSU's season will be busy, as they'll have back-to-back rivalry games with the Falcons...)
11/23 @ Wyoming (...and the Cowboys, before they finish with a home game at Boise State.)

Bottom line: Whoops! I almost forgot; the Rams also must visit Fresno State and a very-mad Arkansas team [that they beat last year]. So getting back to a bowl game will not be east for Colorado State in 2019 unless the defense improves. But at least with their passing game, the Rams will be a tough out.

This is one of the more unpredictable teams this year, Bobo was closing in on breaking through it seemed but then got sick and it all fell apart. Can he get it back? The tough early schedule could really mess up those hopes.

Wyoming

Preview segment: The Wyoming Cowboys

Last season: I know that Craig Bohl had to be pretty upset over Wyoming not making a bowl in 2018. But at least the Cowboys ended the season on a 4-game winning streak to get to 6-6.

Bad news: The Cowboys will be replacing some key players from a year ago, including their leading pass-rusher, 2 of their proudest safeties, and RB Nico Evans [last year's leading rusher in the Mountain West].

Good news: The O-line may be young, but it's got experience which should help Wyoming's run game. The defense has some good linebackers, and the kicking game is solid as a rock.

2019 X-factor: QB Sean Chambers- It looks like this redshirt freshmen will be the starting QB for Wyoming after a strong spring. Chambers has a good skill set, but his style of play is different than those's of incumbent Tyler Vandel Weel. I'll be watching to see how this plays out.

Key games:
8/31 vs. Missouri (Piece of advice for you, Wyoming. Ignore that whole mess with the Tigers's problem with the NCAA and that bowl ban, and just focus on shutting down that Missouri attack.)
9/28 vs. UNLV (Wyoming could be 3-1 entering this big conference opener.)
10/26 vs. Nevada (These infrequent opponents will meet in a swing game for each team's bowl chances.)
11/23 vs. Colorado State (The Cowboys will look to keep the "Bronze Boot" in Laramie for the 4th straight year.)

Bottom line: With a hard November (including trips to Boise State and Utah State) staring Wyoming in the face, it is imperative that the Cowboys settle on their QB quick. A bowl game is within Wyoming's reach if they do, especially if their defense steps up too.

Wyoming got on a roll late with Chambers, they should be a solid 7-8 win team

Nevada

Preview segment: The Nevada Wolfpack

Last season: Really? Nevada has NEVER had a winning record in the Mountain West since they joined it in 2012?! ...Well, that's ancient history now as Nevada had a surprisingly good 2018 with a 8-win season and a Arizona Bowl victory. In fact, the only thing that truly went wrong for the Wolfpack last year was losing that "Fremont Cannon" to UNLV.

Bad news: Much like Wyoming, Nevada has uncertainty at quarterback after Ty Gangi left; there'll be 3 men fighting for the job this summer. Also gone are most of their good safeties and a good chuck of their O-line.

Good news: Freshmen sensation RB Toa Taua and a deep WR group should help this "Air Raid" offense stay on track. The defense is slowly getting better, and so is Nevada's overall team depth.

2019 X-factor: QB Malik Henry- In spring camp, he established himself as the team's most gifted QB. But he's got himself some baggage (watch Netflix's "Last Chance U" to see what I mean), so we'll see how coach Jay Norvell plays this hand.

Key games:
8/30 vs. Purdue (This is a nationally-televised opener on a Friday night, and it SHOULD help decide if Nevada is gonna be a real threat in 2019.)
10/19 @ Utah State (In the last 3 times these two teams met, they've all been 1-possession games.)
11/23 @ Fresno State (Nevada's road slate is tough with games at Oregon, at San Diego State, and then this contest in Fresno. But hey, at least Nevada gets 2 weeks to prep for this.)
11/30 vs. UNLV (These 2 rivals have split their last 6 meetings. Oh, and if Nevada gets revenge on the Rebels this year, maybe they'll get UNLV's coach fired. It could happen...)

Bottom line: After 2018's breakthrough, Nevada is now hoping to get good enough to challenge for the "New Year's Six" in the near future. But with questions at key areas and a hard road slate, I think the Wolfpack should just settle for going back to a bowl this year.

Nevada is intriguing again! MWC could really use Nevada winning that opener, but their inexperienced defense might have a tough time stopping Brohm's Purdue offense

San Diego State

Preview segment: The San Diego State Aztecs

Last season: Despite SDSU scoring big wins over Arizona State and Boise State, fans and critics alike were getting worried about the Aztecs' lack of offensive zing in 2018. Those concerns turned out to be well founded as a 7-2 start evaporated with a 4 game losing streak (which included a 27-0 bowl loss to f--king Ohio). Now the kids in San Diego are changing stuff around in hopes that they can unseat Fresno.

2019 X-factor: QB Ryan Agnew- Don't get me wrong, Ryan's a capable QB. It's just that this summer, Rocky Long and his staff are installing a new spread attack into the offense. The quicker Ryan learns and masters those new plays, the better off the Aztec passing attack will be.

Bad news: Not here to help with this transition is Ryan's top target from a year ago (TE Kahale Warring) and his most productive WR (Fred Trevillion). The defense returns only 2 starters...

Good news: ...but wait a minute! Most of these new guys DO have some starting experience and some good stats. RB Juwan Washington is back from injury, and expect him to be used in a LOT of key roles.

Key games:
9/7 @ UCLA (UCLA is still rebuilding under Chip Kelly, so maybe SDSU can finally score that long-awaited 1st win over the Bruins.)
9/21 vs. Utah State (On that note, the Aztecs have only lost to Utah State once all-time.)
11/9 vs. Nevada (Losing 28-24 to Nevada wasn't part of last year's slide, but it certainly got the ball rolling for SDSU's fall.)
11/16 vs. Fresno State (Trust me: This in-state rivalry game WILL have a say in whoever wins the West division... again.)

Bottom line: If I'm honest, the West division looks like it'll be a crap-shoot between Hawaii, Fresno State, and San Diego State this year. So if everyone on the Aztecs learns these new schemes quickly, they'll be right in the mix for the West division title and maybe the conference crown. It helps that Nevada and Fresno are coming to SDCCU this time.

Pretty crazy how San Diego State bottomed out so badly late in the year, definitely curious to see how the new offense changes things for them.