2009 Bowling Green Falcons College Football Predictions

2009 Bowling Green Falcons Predictions
2008 Record: (6-6, 4-4)
Coach: Dave Clawson, 1st year, (58-49 overall)
Off. Coordinator: Warren Ruggiero (1st year)
Def. Coordinator: Shannon Morrison (1st year) and Mike Elko (1st year)
Returning Starters: 11 (7 offense, 3 defense, kicker)
Ret. Starting Quarterback: Yes (Tyler Sheehan)

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Offense: Senior quarterback Tyler Sheehan (6-3, 225) returns to one of the top offenses in the MAC. Sheehan threw for 2,610 yards, 20 TDs and nine picks last season. The big question is how he fits in with new coach’s Dave Clawson’s system. Clawson, a former Richmond head coach, who spent last season as Tennessee’s offensive coordinator, requires more balance. That means that senior RB Chris Bullock (5-11, 220) will have to be more effective (384 yards). The top target this season should be senior Freddie Barnes (6-0, 212), who has 142 career catches and is also an effective runner. The offensive line returns three of five starters, including two on the left side.

Defense: The defense returns just three starters from a unit that allowed a respectable 23.2ppg and 343.4 yards per game (52nd in the nation). They have to replace all but one player in their front seven. Three starters on the D-line were lost to graduation, while one (Mike Ream) was dismissed for violating team rules. Sophomore DT Andrew Johnson (6-3, 257) has the most experience, recording three sacks last year. Another impact player could be senior LB James Schneider (6-0, 221), a juco standout before transferring in last season. The secondary loses both corners, but they return both safeties including senior SS P.J. Malone (5-11, 201), who had 95 tackles to lead the team and also three picks. Senior FS Jahmal Brown (5-10, 192) was third on the team last year with 83 tackles.

Outlook: The Falcons open with Troy at home and then take on Missouri on the road. They also host Boise State and face Buffalo on the road. They do have the talent to win the championship, but a new coach and system may hold them back.

This MAC conference prediction is courtesy of the ATS Sports Blog. If you are looking for winning college football betting picks be sure to choose ATS Consultants this year, A featured sports handicapping service on Touthouse.com