Marshall Thundering Herd
2000 record: 8-5 (5-3).
Coach: Bob Pruett (6th year, 58-9 record).
Starters returning: 7 offense, 5 defense.
Outlook: The Herd is the word again in the MAC. It starts with quarterback Byron Leftwich, who Pruett believes is the best quarterback in the land. But Marshall lost its top four receivers, a group that combined for 200 receptions and over 2,300 yards. Freshman wideout Josh Davis looked strong in the spring, but junior college All-American Kendrick Starling could be the go-to receiver. The running game, which ranked ninth in the MAC last season, is a huge concern. Defensively, the strength of the Herd is at linebacker with senior Max Yates, Alonzo Jones and converted safety Larry Davis. Ralph Street, the team leader in sacks the last two years, is one of the league's finest at end but the Herd needs a big year from Kelvin Smith at the other side.
Keep an eye on: Michael Owens. Owens saw considerable time at linebacker toward the end of the season, but has been moved to defensive back. He will be just as effective.
Key game: The Nov. 17 tilt against Ohio may decide who will represent the East Division in the MAC championship. Payback has to be on the mind of the Herd after the Bobcats defeated Marshall, 38-28, last season.
It's a good year if ... The receivers grow up quickly. Realistically, though, that shouldn't be a problem. The Herd won't embarrass themselves at Florida and the Sept. 15 game at TCU should be interesting. After that, it's a dream schedule until Ohio comes to town.
Rodney McKissic covers the MAC for the Buffalo News.
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