South Atlantic Conference (SAC)--(NCAA Division II)
Looking back: NCAA Division II national runner-up Lenoir-Rhyne was actually one of three teams from the South Atlantic Conference (SAC) to advance to the playoffs in 2013. Out of that trio, the Bears advanced the farthest in the postseason, losing to Northwest Missouri State in the national championship game on December 21. As for the two teams from the SAC that advanced to the D-II playoffs, Carson-Newman downed fellow conference rival Newberry in the first round before falling to Lenoir-Rhyne in the second round.
Looking ahead: Lenoir-Rhyne will have the target on its back in 2014, as the Bears will try to capture their fourth South Atlantic Conference championship.
Predicted order of finish (2013 overall record in parentheses):
1. Lenoir-Rhyne (13-2): The Bears face at least two challenges in their bid to return to the national title game this season: adjusting to a new head coach in Ian Shields, and dealing with the sudden death of running back Vince Njoku.
2. Carson-Newman (10-3): But don't be surprised if the Eagles finish on top in the SAC this season.
3. Newberry (9-3): The Wolves must the 2014 season on the road against FCS foe Charleston Southern, but do get Carson-Newman and Lenoir-Rhyne at home. If that wasn't enough, they also have to pay a visit to 2013 NCAA Division II playoff participant UNC Pembroke on October 25.
4. Catawba (6-5): Put this 2014 schedule in the "Ouch!" category if you're the Indians. They open the season with three straight road games, against FCS foes Davidson and Western Carolina and Newberry, before opening SAC against, you guessed it, Newberry. By the way, the Indians will play just four home games this year.
5. Wingate (4-6): After a disappointing 2013 season, the Bulldogs will try to right the ship in 2014. They'll be tested sternly, as four of their first six games will be on the road.
6. Tusculum (4-7): The Pioneers will also face an intense, uphill battle after finishing 2-5 in SAC play last season.
7. Mars Hill (3-8): A challenging October will see the Lions play three of their four games on the road this season, including Carson-Newman and Lenoir-Rhyne, among other opponents.
8. Brevard (3-8): The Tornados will take on back-to-back FCS opponents in Western Carolina and Liberty to open the 2014 season, followed by a tough home opener against Carson-Newman.
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