2009 Army Black Knights College Football Predictions

2009 Army Black Knights Predictions
2008 Record: (3-9)
Coach: Rich Ellerson, 1st year (60-41 overall)
Off. Coordinator: Ian Shields (1st year)
Def. Coordinator: Payaam Saadat and Chris Smeland (1st year)
Returning Starters: 11, (3 offense, 7 defense, kicker)
Ret. Starting Quarterback: Yes (Chip Bowden)

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Offense: Another year, another Army coach. Rich Ellerson brings the triple-option attack from Cal Poly, which if run correctly, should have most opponents guessing. Last season, Army ran the option, but it was very bland, consisting of fullback dives and quarterback keepers. Jujnior Chip Bowden (6-0, 211) returns at quarterback after running for 572 yards and throwing for just 282 yards. He will be pushed by sophomore Max Jenkins (6-2, 197) and youngster Trent Steelman. The running game is the key as they have three new starters at fullback and slotback. They have to replace Collin Mooney (1,339 yards), who set the academy single-season rushing record. Sophomore CeDarius Williams (5-11, 203) gets the nod at fullback. An interesting move and a creative one at that, was switching former left tackle Ali Villanueva (6-10, 283) to wide receiver. He certainly provides a big target, but there won’t be a lot passing in the triple option, so why not use a former tackle who is athletic enough to block as a wideout? The O-line has major issues overall with just one starter returning in senior RT Jason Johnson (6-3, 251).

Defense: The defense returns seven starters from a unit that allowed a solid 23.7ppg (51st) and 339.5 yards per game. They ran a 4-3 scheme last year, but will use a more attacking defense called the double-eagle flex. Up front, senior Victor Ugenyi (6-3, 262) will move from end to tackle to provide more of a pass rush. Rush end Josh McNary (6-1, 225) led the Black Knights with 12 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks. At linebacker, they return just one starter. Junior Stephen Anderson (5-10, 219) is the leading returning tackler with 82 and moves from the outside to the inside to take advantage of his playmaking skills. In the secondary, they return junior FS Donovan Travis (6-1, 187), who is an outstanding athlete and picked off two passes last year.

Outlook: Army is moving in the right direction with Ellerson, who ran the spread option and will utilize more passing. He just needs more talent to run his offense. They face Eastern Michigan on the road and Duke at home to start the season. It’s certainly a very tame schedule, but they have face Air Force on the road, which means a Commander-in-Chief Trophy is not likely.

This FBS Independents 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