(Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
About the Rankings and Predictions
After months of evaluating talent and depth charts, reviewing preseason magazines, ranking coaches and recruiting classes, and browsing a number of Web sites, here is my conference preview for 2009. These rankings are based on my own formula that takes into account recruiting, returning experience, player talent, coaching, recent history, and adjustments from last season (turnover margin, close game win/loss record, injuries, etc.). These variables create a power ranking.
Team schedules are then evaluated, and predictions are made for each game based on power rankings and home field advantage scoring. The final rankings are reflective of power rating, projected win/loss record, and strength of schedule.
Conference Overview
The MAC in some aspects is representative of the United States as a whole, as the gap between rich and poor continues to widen. The top teams in the MAC are capable of scaring anyone on any given day, but those at the bottom continue to pull the league down. This season, the MAC scores as the worst of the 11 conferences in FBS.
Since 2000, current MAC teams have won 47 games versus BCS conference teams, posting an overall record of 47-247. This season there will be no shortage of opportunities for upsets again. The MAC has 29 games scheduled against BCS teams.
Looking at the conference, however, last season’s championship game participants have major questions. Buffalo needs a new quarterback to throw to some fantastic receivers. Ball State also lost Nate Davis, as well as head coach Brady Hoke, and so some rebuilding can be expected.
Let's take a look at the divisional outlook.
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