4 years ago
Sunday, August 30, 2015
Thursday, August 27, 2015
RFC Small College Preview: Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC)--(NCAA Division III)
Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC)
2014 Standings
Looking back: The Chapman University Panthers notched their third straight winning season in finishing 8-2 overall, with both losses coming to eventual national semifinalist Linfield, as well as winning eight straight games in between both games against the Wildcats. In the first round of the NCAA Division III playoffs, Linfield cruised to a convincing 55-24 win over Chapman. In the 2014 season opener on September 13, the Wildcats outlasted the Panthers, 21-14.
Looking ahead: Can Chapman claim yet another SCIAC championship this fall? Or will traditional mainstays such as Cal Lutheran, Occidental, or Redlands step up, and take the title? Either one of those questions could be answered as the 2015 season rolls on.
Predicted order of finish (2014 overall record in parentheses):
1. Chapman (8-2): The Panthers go into 2015 finding themselves in the rare position of being the favorites to win the SCIAC crown.
2. Redlands (6-3): The Bulldogs overcame an 0-2 start--in which they outscored 72-3 in losses to Mary Hardin-Baylor and Linfield--to finish 6-1 in SCIAC play last fall. They hope to make a serious ran at the SCIAC title this fall.
3. Occidental (5-4): The Tigers developed a knack for winning close games in 2014, winning four out of five games by seven points or less. A few more wins like that could help propel them into postseason play in 2015.
4. Claremont-Mudd-Scripps (5-4): The Stags are hoping to build on one of the better seasons they've had in quite some time.
5. Cal Lutheran (4-5): The Kingsmen hope to reign supreme in the SCIAC after back-to-back losing seasons.
6. LaVerne (2-7): The Leopards to leap their way into their first winning season since 2005, when they finished 5-4 overall.
7. Whittier (2-7): The Poets drought of having a winning record has lasted even longer, with their last winning season coming in 1998 at 7-2 overall.
8. Pomona-Pitzer (1-8): The Sagehens face a tremendous uphill battle too after finishing in a three-way tie with Whittier and LaVerne for last place in the SCIAC at 1-6 last season.
Follow RFC on Twitter @realfootball.
2014 Standings
Looking back: The Chapman University Panthers notched their third straight winning season in finishing 8-2 overall, with both losses coming to eventual national semifinalist Linfield, as well as winning eight straight games in between both games against the Wildcats. In the first round of the NCAA Division III playoffs, Linfield cruised to a convincing 55-24 win over Chapman. In the 2014 season opener on September 13, the Wildcats outlasted the Panthers, 21-14.
Looking ahead: Can Chapman claim yet another SCIAC championship this fall? Or will traditional mainstays such as Cal Lutheran, Occidental, or Redlands step up, and take the title? Either one of those questions could be answered as the 2015 season rolls on.
Predicted order of finish (2014 overall record in parentheses):
1. Chapman (8-2): The Panthers go into 2015 finding themselves in the rare position of being the favorites to win the SCIAC crown.
2. Redlands (6-3): The Bulldogs overcame an 0-2 start--in which they outscored 72-3 in losses to Mary Hardin-Baylor and Linfield--to finish 6-1 in SCIAC play last fall. They hope to make a serious ran at the SCIAC title this fall.
3. Occidental (5-4): The Tigers developed a knack for winning close games in 2014, winning four out of five games by seven points or less. A few more wins like that could help propel them into postseason play in 2015.
4. Claremont-Mudd-Scripps (5-4): The Stags are hoping to build on one of the better seasons they've had in quite some time.
5. Cal Lutheran (4-5): The Kingsmen hope to reign supreme in the SCIAC after back-to-back losing seasons.
6. LaVerne (2-7): The Leopards to leap their way into their first winning season since 2005, when they finished 5-4 overall.
7. Whittier (2-7): The Poets drought of having a winning record has lasted even longer, with their last winning season coming in 1998 at 7-2 overall.
8. Pomona-Pitzer (1-8): The Sagehens face a tremendous uphill battle too after finishing in a three-way tie with Whittier and LaVerne for last place in the SCIAC at 1-6 last season.
Follow RFC on Twitter @realfootball.
Monday, August 24, 2015
NCAA Division I Quick Analysis Previews: Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC)
2014 Standings
2015 Media Guide
2015 Predictions (courtesy of hbcusports.com)
East Division Champion
West Division Champion
Preseason All-Conference
Quick Analysis: With Alabama State being declared ineligible for postseason play due to a poor Academic Progress Rate (APR), don't be surprised if Alcorn State wins back-to-back trips to the SWAC title game, as well as chance to represent the conference at the inaugural Celebration Bowl at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta in December 19.
Follow RFC on Twitter @realfootball.
2015 Media Guide
2015 Predictions (courtesy of hbcusports.com)
East Division Champion
West Division Champion
Preseason All-Conference
Quick Analysis: With Alabama State being declared ineligible for postseason play due to a poor Academic Progress Rate (APR), don't be surprised if Alcorn State wins back-to-back trips to the SWAC title game, as well as chance to represent the conference at the inaugural Celebration Bowl at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta in December 19.
Follow RFC on Twitter @realfootball.
RFC Small College Preview: Northwest Conference (NWC)--(NCAA Division III)
Northwest Conference (NWC)
2014 Standings
Looking back: The Linfield College Wildcats extended their record streak of consecutive winning seasons to 59 straight in 2014, as they advanced to the national semifinals of the NCAA Division III playoffs en route to an 11-2 overall record. Despite a valiant effort, however, the Wildcats fell to eventual national champion Wisconsin-Whitewater, 20-14.
Looking ahead: While Linfield will be shooting for its 60th straight winning season, the Wildcats will likely get challenges from perennial Northwest Conference (NWC) nemesis Pacific Lutheran, as well as league upstart Pacific (Ore.).
Predicted order of finish (2014 overall record in parentheses):
1. Linfield (11-2): The Wildcats are the obvious team to beat in the NWC going into 2015. Until another team proves otherwise, that is.
2. Pacific Lutheran (7-2): With five straight winning seasons of their own under their belt, the Lutes hope to finally break through this fall, and dethrone Linfield.
3. Pacific (Ore.)--(6-3): It took the Boxers just four seasons to finally achieve a winning record. Now, after finishing second in the NWC at 6-1 last season--including an upset win over the aforementioned Pacific Lutheran, they hope to take the next step towards a conference title and a potential berth in the NCAA Division III playoffs.
4. Whitworth (6-4): As the lone NWC squad to play 10 regular season games, the Pirates hope to improve on last year's 4-3 record in conference play from a year ago, by playing a full 10-game schedule again, this year.
5. Willamette (5-4): The Bearcats will play just two games outside of Oregon this fall: the season opener at Trinity (Tex.) on September 12, as well as trip to Pacific Lutheran on October 10.
6. Puget Sound (4-5): The Loggers will look to log their first winning season since 2006, when they finished 7-3 overall.
7. George Fox (1-8): The Bruins face a steep challenge in their second year since they resumed their football progam after a 46-year hiatus last season.
8. Lewis & Clark (0-9): The Pioneers have turned to former Linfield head coach Jay Locey to try and turn around their struggling program.
Follow RFC on Twitter @realfootball.
2014 Standings
Looking back: The Linfield College Wildcats extended their record streak of consecutive winning seasons to 59 straight in 2014, as they advanced to the national semifinals of the NCAA Division III playoffs en route to an 11-2 overall record. Despite a valiant effort, however, the Wildcats fell to eventual national champion Wisconsin-Whitewater, 20-14.
Looking ahead: While Linfield will be shooting for its 60th straight winning season, the Wildcats will likely get challenges from perennial Northwest Conference (NWC) nemesis Pacific Lutheran, as well as league upstart Pacific (Ore.).
Predicted order of finish (2014 overall record in parentheses):
1. Linfield (11-2): The Wildcats are the obvious team to beat in the NWC going into 2015. Until another team proves otherwise, that is.
2. Pacific Lutheran (7-2): With five straight winning seasons of their own under their belt, the Lutes hope to finally break through this fall, and dethrone Linfield.
3. Pacific (Ore.)--(6-3): It took the Boxers just four seasons to finally achieve a winning record. Now, after finishing second in the NWC at 6-1 last season--including an upset win over the aforementioned Pacific Lutheran, they hope to take the next step towards a conference title and a potential berth in the NCAA Division III playoffs.
4. Whitworth (6-4): As the lone NWC squad to play 10 regular season games, the Pirates hope to improve on last year's 4-3 record in conference play from a year ago, by playing a full 10-game schedule again, this year.
5. Willamette (5-4): The Bearcats will play just two games outside of Oregon this fall: the season opener at Trinity (Tex.) on September 12, as well as trip to Pacific Lutheran on October 10.
6. Puget Sound (4-5): The Loggers will look to log their first winning season since 2006, when they finished 7-3 overall.
7. George Fox (1-8): The Bruins face a steep challenge in their second year since they resumed their football progam after a 46-year hiatus last season.
8. Lewis & Clark (0-9): The Pioneers have turned to former Linfield head coach Jay Locey to try and turn around their struggling program.
Follow RFC on Twitter @realfootball.
Sunday, August 23, 2015
RFC Small College Preview: Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC)--(NCAA Division II)
Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC)
2014 Standings
Looking back: Despite going 10-1 last season, the Azusa Pacific University Cougars found themselves on the outside looking in on Selection Sunday, as they were snubbed for a berth in the NCAA Division II playoffs. The Cougars lone loss of 2014 came in their second game of the season, a 30-10 setback at Humboldt State on September 13.
Speaking of the Lumberjacks, they finished the 2014 campaign at 8-2 overall, but like the Cougars, they also weren't invited to the D-II dance. In fact, all seven squads that currently make up the Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC) found themselves sitting at home once the postseason rolled around.
Looking ahead: Don't be surprised if the two California schools; Azusa Pacific and Humboldt State, do battle for the GNAC crown in 2015.
Predicted order of finish (2014 overall record in parentheses):
1. Azusa Pacific (10-1): The Cougars enter the 2015 season looking for their third straight GNAC championship. However, an early season test at West Texas A&M in the season opener on September 3 could determine if they're playoff-worthy come November.
2. Humboldt State (8-2): The Lumberjacks finished in a three-way tie for second place in the GNAC at 4-2 last year. They hope to dethrone APU this year.
3. Central Washington (7-4): The Wildcats hope to carry a season-ending three-game winning streak into 2015. But they'll face a tough test open the season on September 5. That's when they'll hit the road to face defending NCAA Division II national champion Colorado State-Pueblo.
4. Western Oregon (6-5): The Wolves will open the 2015 season with four of their first five games on the road. They'll host perennial Gulf South Conference power and 2014 D-II playoff participant North Alabama on October 10.
5. Simon Fraser (2-9): The Clan has won at least five games (5-6 in 2012) only once since joining the NCAA in 2010.
6. South Dakota Mines (2-9): The Hardrockers will play one final season in the GNAC, before joining the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) in 2016.
7. Dixie State (1-10): The Red Storm will also make the jump from the GNAC to the RMAC after this season.
Follow RFC on Twitter @realfootball.
2014 Standings
Looking back: Despite going 10-1 last season, the Azusa Pacific University Cougars found themselves on the outside looking in on Selection Sunday, as they were snubbed for a berth in the NCAA Division II playoffs. The Cougars lone loss of 2014 came in their second game of the season, a 30-10 setback at Humboldt State on September 13.
Speaking of the Lumberjacks, they finished the 2014 campaign at 8-2 overall, but like the Cougars, they also weren't invited to the D-II dance. In fact, all seven squads that currently make up the Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC) found themselves sitting at home once the postseason rolled around.
Looking ahead: Don't be surprised if the two California schools; Azusa Pacific and Humboldt State, do battle for the GNAC crown in 2015.
Predicted order of finish (2014 overall record in parentheses):
1. Azusa Pacific (10-1): The Cougars enter the 2015 season looking for their third straight GNAC championship. However, an early season test at West Texas A&M in the season opener on September 3 could determine if they're playoff-worthy come November.
2. Humboldt State (8-2): The Lumberjacks finished in a three-way tie for second place in the GNAC at 4-2 last year. They hope to dethrone APU this year.
3. Central Washington (7-4): The Wildcats hope to carry a season-ending three-game winning streak into 2015. But they'll face a tough test open the season on September 5. That's when they'll hit the road to face defending NCAA Division II national champion Colorado State-Pueblo.
4. Western Oregon (6-5): The Wolves will open the 2015 season with four of their first five games on the road. They'll host perennial Gulf South Conference power and 2014 D-II playoff participant North Alabama on October 10.
5. Simon Fraser (2-9): The Clan has won at least five games (5-6 in 2012) only once since joining the NCAA in 2010.
6. South Dakota Mines (2-9): The Hardrockers will play one final season in the GNAC, before joining the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) in 2016.
7. Dixie State (1-10): The Red Storm will also make the jump from the GNAC to the RMAC after this season.
Follow RFC on Twitter @realfootball.
Thursday, August 20, 2015
RFC Small College Preview: Frontier Conference (FC)--(NAIA)
Frontier Conference (FC)
2014 Standings
Looking back: The Southern Oregon University Raiders (13-2 overall) defeated the Marian University Knights, 55-31, to claim their first-ever NAIA national championship last season. They defeated perennial Frontier Conference power Carroll (Mont.) in two out of three games along the way; 38-35 in the regular season opener on September 6, and 45-42 in the quarterfinals of the NAIA playoffs. It was also the first double-digit win season in program history for SOU, who had won nine games just three other times ever.
Speaking of the Saints, they won 10 straight games in between both losses to SOU in 2014, even holding off the Raiders in a high-scoring 42-40 contest at midseason. At the time of their upset loss to the Raiders, the Saints were ranked No. 1 in the NAIA.
Looking ahead: Expect another tight race in the Frontier Conference (FC), with Southern Oregon and Carroll fighting for the top two spots in the league, and Eastern Oregon (8-3 overall in 2014) being thrown in the mix just for good measure.
Predicted order of finish (2014 overall record in parentheses):
1. Southern Oregon (13-2): The Raiders will begin their defense of last year's national championship with a trip to Carroll in the season opener for both teams on September 5.
2. Carroll (Mont.)--(10-2): But the perennial powerhouse Saints aren't going to go away quite so quickly.
3. Eastern Oregon (8-3): With a preseason ranking of No. 13, expect the Mountaineers to mount a challenge to SOU and Carroll this fall.
4. Montana Western (6-5): The Bulldogs will do battle with Carroll on September 26, followed by Southern Oregon on October 10, with both games to played at home.
5. Rocky Mountain (5-6): The Bears hope to bounce back after losing four straight games at the end of the 2014 season.
6. College of Idaho (4-7): The 'Yotes were surprisingly competitive in their first football season since 1977, starting at 4-2 before closing with five straight losses, while also winning three of their four contests by four points or less. Having said that, they hope to build on 2014, in 2015.
7. Montana State-Northern (3-8): The Lights hope to climb out of the darkness that's the bottom of the Frontier Conference standings this season.
8. Montana Tech (1-9): Speaking of the basement, the Orediggers will enter the 2015 season having lost eight straight games.
Follow RFC on Twitter @realfootball.
2014 Standings
Looking back: The Southern Oregon University Raiders (13-2 overall) defeated the Marian University Knights, 55-31, to claim their first-ever NAIA national championship last season. They defeated perennial Frontier Conference power Carroll (Mont.) in two out of three games along the way; 38-35 in the regular season opener on September 6, and 45-42 in the quarterfinals of the NAIA playoffs. It was also the first double-digit win season in program history for SOU, who had won nine games just three other times ever.
Speaking of the Saints, they won 10 straight games in between both losses to SOU in 2014, even holding off the Raiders in a high-scoring 42-40 contest at midseason. At the time of their upset loss to the Raiders, the Saints were ranked No. 1 in the NAIA.
Looking ahead: Expect another tight race in the Frontier Conference (FC), with Southern Oregon and Carroll fighting for the top two spots in the league, and Eastern Oregon (8-3 overall in 2014) being thrown in the mix just for good measure.
Predicted order of finish (2014 overall record in parentheses):
1. Southern Oregon (13-2): The Raiders will begin their defense of last year's national championship with a trip to Carroll in the season opener for both teams on September 5.
2. Carroll (Mont.)--(10-2): But the perennial powerhouse Saints aren't going to go away quite so quickly.
3. Eastern Oregon (8-3): With a preseason ranking of No. 13, expect the Mountaineers to mount a challenge to SOU and Carroll this fall.
4. Montana Western (6-5): The Bulldogs will do battle with Carroll on September 26, followed by Southern Oregon on October 10, with both games to played at home.
5. Rocky Mountain (5-6): The Bears hope to bounce back after losing four straight games at the end of the 2014 season.
6. College of Idaho (4-7): The 'Yotes were surprisingly competitive in their first football season since 1977, starting at 4-2 before closing with five straight losses, while also winning three of their four contests by four points or less. Having said that, they hope to build on 2014, in 2015.
7. Montana State-Northern (3-8): The Lights hope to climb out of the darkness that's the bottom of the Frontier Conference standings this season.
8. Montana Tech (1-9): Speaking of the basement, the Orediggers will enter the 2015 season having lost eight straight games.
Follow RFC on Twitter @realfootball.
Tuesday, August 18, 2015
RFC Small College Preview: Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC)--(NCAA Division II)
Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC)
2014 Standings
Looking back: After just seven seasons of play, the Colorado State University-Pueblo Thunderwolves reached the top of the NCAA Division II football summit, winning their program's first-ever national championship. They shut out Minnesota State-Mankato, 13-0, to claim the crown for claim the crown for 2014. But CSU-Pueblo wasn't the only team from the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) to get a taste of postseason play last fall, with the Colorado School of Mines Orediggers advancing to the D-II quarterfinals before being ousted by Ohio Dominican.
Looking ahead: CSU-Pueblo will enter the 2015 season trying to prove that its sudden rise to the top was no fluke.
Predicted order of finish (2014 overall record in parentheses):
1. Colorado State-Pueblo (14-1): With 16 starters coming back--including six on defense--expect the Thunderwolves to be the team to beat in the RMAC, as well as one of the nation's best teams, in 2015.
2. Colorado Mines (10-2): Coming off of a share of the RMAC title in 2014, the Orediggers hope to continue their winning ways under first-year head coach Gregg Brandon, who has won 44 games in a six-year career.
3. Chadron State (8-3): The Eagles must replace 14 seniors lost due to graduation if they're to find themselves in the RMAC title and postseason discussion this season.
4. Colorado Mesa (6-5): The Mavericks hope to build on achieving their first winning season since 2008, when they also finished 6-5 overall.
5. Western New Mexico (5-6): With a move to the Lone Star Conference looming in 2016, the Mustangs hope to go out of the RMAC with a winning record in 2015.
6. Western State (4-7): The Mountaineers hope to move up in the RMAC standings after finishing 3-6 in league play last season.
7. Adams State (4-7): Former Washington State quarterback Timm Rosenbach takes over a struggling Grizzlies gridiron program as their new head coach this season.
8. New Mexico Highlands (3-8): The Cowboys will also head into 2015 with a new head coach in Jeff Mills, who served as the defensive line coach at Indiana State.
9. Fort Lewis (3-8): A mid-season upset win over eventual national champion CSU-Pueblo was the major highlight of an otherwise disappointing 2014 season for the Skyhawks, who haven't had a winning season since 2006 (7-4 overall).
10. Black Hills State (3-8): The Yellow Jackets face a long, uphill battle to climb out of the RMAC basement after a 2-7 finish in conference play last year.
Follow RFC on Twitter @realfootball.
2014 Standings
Looking back: After just seven seasons of play, the Colorado State University-Pueblo Thunderwolves reached the top of the NCAA Division II football summit, winning their program's first-ever national championship. They shut out Minnesota State-Mankato, 13-0, to claim the crown for claim the crown for 2014. But CSU-Pueblo wasn't the only team from the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) to get a taste of postseason play last fall, with the Colorado School of Mines Orediggers advancing to the D-II quarterfinals before being ousted by Ohio Dominican.
Looking ahead: CSU-Pueblo will enter the 2015 season trying to prove that its sudden rise to the top was no fluke.
Predicted order of finish (2014 overall record in parentheses):
1. Colorado State-Pueblo (14-1): With 16 starters coming back--including six on defense--expect the Thunderwolves to be the team to beat in the RMAC, as well as one of the nation's best teams, in 2015.
2. Colorado Mines (10-2): Coming off of a share of the RMAC title in 2014, the Orediggers hope to continue their winning ways under first-year head coach Gregg Brandon, who has won 44 games in a six-year career.
3. Chadron State (8-3): The Eagles must replace 14 seniors lost due to graduation if they're to find themselves in the RMAC title and postseason discussion this season.
4. Colorado Mesa (6-5): The Mavericks hope to build on achieving their first winning season since 2008, when they also finished 6-5 overall.
5. Western New Mexico (5-6): With a move to the Lone Star Conference looming in 2016, the Mustangs hope to go out of the RMAC with a winning record in 2015.
6. Western State (4-7): The Mountaineers hope to move up in the RMAC standings after finishing 3-6 in league play last season.
7. Adams State (4-7): Former Washington State quarterback Timm Rosenbach takes over a struggling Grizzlies gridiron program as their new head coach this season.
8. New Mexico Highlands (3-8): The Cowboys will also head into 2015 with a new head coach in Jeff Mills, who served as the defensive line coach at Indiana State.
9. Fort Lewis (3-8): A mid-season upset win over eventual national champion CSU-Pueblo was the major highlight of an otherwise disappointing 2014 season for the Skyhawks, who haven't had a winning season since 2006 (7-4 overall).
10. Black Hills State (3-8): The Yellow Jackets face a long, uphill battle to climb out of the RMAC basement after a 2-7 finish in conference play last year.
Follow RFC on Twitter @realfootball.
Sunday, August 16, 2015
RFC Small College Preview: Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC)--(NCAA Division III)
Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC)
2014 Standings
2014 Media Guide
Record Book
Looking back: The Texas Lutheran University Bulldogs notched their second straight season of at least eight or more wins in 2014, finishing at 9-2 overall en route to winning their second straight Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC) championship. They fell to Mary Hardin-Baylor, 27-20, in the first round of the NCAA Division III playoffs.
Looking ahead: Don't be surprised if TLU "three-peats" as SCAC champions this fall.
Predicted order of finish (2014 overall record in parentheses):
1. Texas Lutheran (9-2): While the Bulldogs will play all of their games in the state of Texas this season, the most important date that TLU fans should circle on their calendar should be October 24. That's when the Bulldogs will travel to Belton, Texas to face Mary Hardin-Baylor in a potential playoff preview.
2. Trinity (Tex.)--(4-6): The Tigers will face the likes of Pacific Lutheran at home and Willamette at home, as well as facing Southwestern twice in 2015.
3. Austin (5-5): The 'Roos lost all five games by double digits in 2014. That's something they hope to change in 2015.
4. Southwestern (Tex.)--(1-8): The Pirates will continue their long uphill climb towards respectability under third-year head coach Joe Austin.
Follow RFC on Twitter @realfootball.
2014 Standings
2014 Media Guide
Record Book
Looking back: The Texas Lutheran University Bulldogs notched their second straight season of at least eight or more wins in 2014, finishing at 9-2 overall en route to winning their second straight Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC) championship. They fell to Mary Hardin-Baylor, 27-20, in the first round of the NCAA Division III playoffs.
Looking ahead: Don't be surprised if TLU "three-peats" as SCAC champions this fall.
Predicted order of finish (2014 overall record in parentheses):
1. Texas Lutheran (9-2): While the Bulldogs will play all of their games in the state of Texas this season, the most important date that TLU fans should circle on their calendar should be October 24. That's when the Bulldogs will travel to Belton, Texas to face Mary Hardin-Baylor in a potential playoff preview.
2. Trinity (Tex.)--(4-6): The Tigers will face the likes of Pacific Lutheran at home and Willamette at home, as well as facing Southwestern twice in 2015.
3. Austin (5-5): The 'Roos lost all five games by double digits in 2014. That's something they hope to change in 2015.
4. Southwestern (Tex.)--(1-8): The Pirates will continue their long uphill climb towards respectability under third-year head coach Joe Austin.
Follow RFC on Twitter @realfootball.
Friday, August 14, 2015
RFC Small College Preview: American Southwest Conference (ASC)--(NCAA Division III)
American Southwest Conference (ASC)
2014 Standings
All-Time Standings
All-Time Postseason Results
Looking back: The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor Crusaders added yet another American Southwest Conference (ASC) championship to their trophy case in 2014, winning their fifth straight outright conference crown, and their ninth dating back to 2005. The "Cru" advanced to the national quarterfinals of the NCAA Division III, losing to Linfield in a 31-28 heartbreaker.
Looking ahead: The ASC will grow by at least two members for 2015 and beyond. Well, sort of. The Belhaven University Blazers from Jackson, Mississippi will join the conference as a provisional member from the NAIA, while McMurry University out of Abilene, Texas rejoins the D-III after abandoning plans to move up to the NCAA Division II ranks. Neither team will be eligible for the ASC title.
Predicted order of finish (2014 overall record in parentheses):
1. Mary Hardin-Baylor (11-1): The Crusaders will go into 2015 trying to extend their 54-game regular season winning streak, as well as a streak of 37 straight ASC wins dating back to 2009.
2. Hardin-Simmons (6-3): The Cowboys hope to win their first ASC crown since 2004, as well as advance to the NCAA Division III playoffs for the first time since 2008. All-Time Results
3. Louisiana College (6-4): The Wildcats will open the 2015 season with three straight road games, as well as pay a visit to NCAA Division II Kentucky Wesleyan in a last-minute addition to this year's schedule.
4. East Texas Baptist (4-6): While the Tigers found themselves on the winning side of several high-scoring games in 2014, they also gave up 50 or more points in five or their six losses; including 98 to D-II Texas A&M-Commerce in the season opener, as well as 83 points to Mary Hardin-Baylor in the season finale. It's a situation that head coach Joshua Eargle hopes will be corrected in 2015.
5. Howard Payne (4-6): The Yellow Jackets will look to soar in the ASC standings after a dismal 1-4 finish in conference play last fall.
6. Sul Ross State (2-8): The Lobos hope to put yet another rough season behind them as well.
Not eligible for ASC title
Belhaven (2-9): The 2015 schedule for the Blazers includes a home game against two-time defending D-III national champion Wisconsin-Whitewater on September 12, as well as a home contest against Mary Hardin-Baylor on October 3, and a road game against future ASC member McMurry on October 31.
McMurry (2-8): The Warhawks will try to improve on a miserable showing in which they surrendered 40 or more points in all eight losses last season.
Follow RFC on Twitter @realfootball.
2014 Standings
All-Time Standings
All-Time Postseason Results
Looking back: The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor Crusaders added yet another American Southwest Conference (ASC) championship to their trophy case in 2014, winning their fifth straight outright conference crown, and their ninth dating back to 2005. The "Cru" advanced to the national quarterfinals of the NCAA Division III, losing to Linfield in a 31-28 heartbreaker.
Looking ahead: The ASC will grow by at least two members for 2015 and beyond. Well, sort of. The Belhaven University Blazers from Jackson, Mississippi will join the conference as a provisional member from the NAIA, while McMurry University out of Abilene, Texas rejoins the D-III after abandoning plans to move up to the NCAA Division II ranks. Neither team will be eligible for the ASC title.
Predicted order of finish (2014 overall record in parentheses):
1. Mary Hardin-Baylor (11-1): The Crusaders will go into 2015 trying to extend their 54-game regular season winning streak, as well as a streak of 37 straight ASC wins dating back to 2009.
2. Hardin-Simmons (6-3): The Cowboys hope to win their first ASC crown since 2004, as well as advance to the NCAA Division III playoffs for the first time since 2008. All-Time Results
3. Louisiana College (6-4): The Wildcats will open the 2015 season with three straight road games, as well as pay a visit to NCAA Division II Kentucky Wesleyan in a last-minute addition to this year's schedule.
4. East Texas Baptist (4-6): While the Tigers found themselves on the winning side of several high-scoring games in 2014, they also gave up 50 or more points in five or their six losses; including 98 to D-II Texas A&M-Commerce in the season opener, as well as 83 points to Mary Hardin-Baylor in the season finale. It's a situation that head coach Joshua Eargle hopes will be corrected in 2015.
5. Howard Payne (4-6): The Yellow Jackets will look to soar in the ASC standings after a dismal 1-4 finish in conference play last fall.
6. Sul Ross State (2-8): The Lobos hope to put yet another rough season behind them as well.
Not eligible for ASC title
Belhaven (2-9): The 2015 schedule for the Blazers includes a home game against two-time defending D-III national champion Wisconsin-Whitewater on September 12, as well as a home contest against Mary Hardin-Baylor on October 3, and a road game against future ASC member McMurry on October 31.
McMurry (2-8): The Warhawks will try to improve on a miserable showing in which they surrendered 40 or more points in all eight losses last season.
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Thursday, August 13, 2015
RFC Small College Preview: Lone Star Conference (LSC)--(NCAA Division II)
Lone Star Conference (LSC)
2014 Standings
2014 Media Guide
All-Time Postseason Results
Looking back: The Lone Star Conference (LSC) crowned two different champions for football in 2014, with Texas A&M-Commerce (9-3 overall) winning the regular season title at 6-1 in the LSC, while Angelo State (9-3) won the inaugural playoff crown.
The Rams then advanced to the NCAA Division II playoffs as the No. 6 seed out of Super Region 4. In the first round, they upset Michigan Tech, 42-41, on the road, before losing to eventual national champion Colorado State-Pueblo, 52-14, in the second round.
Looking ahead: There will be tremendous changes for the LSC for 2015 and beyond, with McMurry leaving the league to return to the NCAA Division III ranks, while Oklahoma Panhandle State will join as an affiliate member. Additionally, the University of Texas-Permian Basin will start football in 2016, while Western New Mexico will jump on the LSC bandwagon next season as well. That gives the league 10 football-playing schools by then.
Predicted order of finish (2014 overall record in parentheses):
1. Texas A&M-Commerce (9-3): The Lions must lean on the contributions of Preseason Defensive Player of the Year Toni Pulu if they're to win their 22nd LSC championship this fall.
2. Angelo State (9-3): Head Coach Will Wagner welcomes back seven starters apiece on both sides of the ball, as the Rams enter the 2015 season as a serious contender for the LSC title.
3. Eastern New Mexico (7-4): After back-to-back seven-win seasons, the Greyhounds hope to get over that hump this season.
4. Midwestern State (6-4): The Mustangs face a tough 2015 slate, as they'll take on Texas A&M-Commerce and Angelo State on the road.
5. West Texas A&M (6-5): Head Coach Mike Nesbitt will welcome back 19 starters, while losing only six, as the Buffaloes look to return to the top of the LSC perch this fall.
6. Tarleton State (5-5): The Texans will look to win at least a share of their first LSC title since 2013.
7. Texas A&M-Kingsville (2-9): New head coach Daren Wilkinson will look to turn around the fortunes of a once-mighty Javelina program.
Not eligible for conference title
Oklahoma Panhandle State (7-3): The Aggies will face two LSC opponents in Angelo State and Tarleton State in 2015.
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2014 Standings
2014 Media Guide
All-Time Postseason Results
Looking back: The Lone Star Conference (LSC) crowned two different champions for football in 2014, with Texas A&M-Commerce (9-3 overall) winning the regular season title at 6-1 in the LSC, while Angelo State (9-3) won the inaugural playoff crown.
The Rams then advanced to the NCAA Division II playoffs as the No. 6 seed out of Super Region 4. In the first round, they upset Michigan Tech, 42-41, on the road, before losing to eventual national champion Colorado State-Pueblo, 52-14, in the second round.
Looking ahead: There will be tremendous changes for the LSC for 2015 and beyond, with McMurry leaving the league to return to the NCAA Division III ranks, while Oklahoma Panhandle State will join as an affiliate member. Additionally, the University of Texas-Permian Basin will start football in 2016, while Western New Mexico will jump on the LSC bandwagon next season as well. That gives the league 10 football-playing schools by then.
Predicted order of finish (2014 overall record in parentheses):
1. Texas A&M-Commerce (9-3): The Lions must lean on the contributions of Preseason Defensive Player of the Year Toni Pulu if they're to win their 22nd LSC championship this fall.
2. Angelo State (9-3): Head Coach Will Wagner welcomes back seven starters apiece on both sides of the ball, as the Rams enter the 2015 season as a serious contender for the LSC title.
3. Eastern New Mexico (7-4): After back-to-back seven-win seasons, the Greyhounds hope to get over that hump this season.
4. Midwestern State (6-4): The Mustangs face a tough 2015 slate, as they'll take on Texas A&M-Commerce and Angelo State on the road.
5. West Texas A&M (6-5): Head Coach Mike Nesbitt will welcome back 19 starters, while losing only six, as the Buffaloes look to return to the top of the LSC perch this fall.
6. Tarleton State (5-5): The Texans will look to win at least a share of their first LSC title since 2013.
7. Texas A&M-Kingsville (2-9): New head coach Daren Wilkinson will look to turn around the fortunes of a once-mighty Javelina program.
Not eligible for conference title
Oklahoma Panhandle State (7-3): The Aggies will face two LSC opponents in Angelo State and Tarleton State in 2015.
Follow RFC on Twitter @realfootball.
Tuesday, August 11, 2015
NCAA Division I Quick Analysis Previews: Ivy League
2014 Standings
2015 Predictions
2015 Preseason Awards
2015 Media Guide
Quick Analysis: Coming off yet another undefeated season, the Harvard Crimson enter the 2015 campaign as the team to beat in the Ivy League yet again. They'll try to add their fourth crown in the last five years--as well as three in a row--this fall.
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2015 Predictions
2015 Preseason Awards
2015 Media Guide
Quick Analysis: Coming off yet another undefeated season, the Harvard Crimson enter the 2015 campaign as the team to beat in the Ivy League yet again. They'll try to add their fourth crown in the last five years--as well as three in a row--this fall.
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Sunday, August 09, 2015
NCAA Division I Quick Analysis Previews: Pioneer Football League (PFL)
2014 Standings
2015 Predictions
2015 Preseason All-Conference
Quick Analysis: The University of San Diego Toreros were selected as the favorites to win the 2015 Pioneer Football League (PFL) title, receiving seven out of 11 first place votes. Still, expect Dayton and Drake to give San Diego a run for its money this fall. One team that won't be in the hunt for a conference crown will be Jacksonville. The Dolphins 2014 season was vacated due to a violation of conference rules, despite finishing 7-1 in PFL play. If that wasn't enough, JU was also declared ineligible for this year's conference crown because of such penalties.
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2015 Predictions
2015 Preseason All-Conference
Quick Analysis: The University of San Diego Toreros were selected as the favorites to win the 2015 Pioneer Football League (PFL) title, receiving seven out of 11 first place votes. Still, expect Dayton and Drake to give San Diego a run for its money this fall. One team that won't be in the hunt for a conference crown will be Jacksonville. The Dolphins 2014 season was vacated due to a violation of conference rules, despite finishing 7-1 in PFL play. If that wasn't enough, JU was also declared ineligible for this year's conference crown because of such penalties.
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NCAA Division I Quick Analysis Previews: Patriot League
2014 Standings
2015 Media Guide
2015 Predictions
2015 Preseason All-Conference
Quick Analysis: In what was perhaps one of the closest preseason prediction votes in the history of college football, Fordham edged Bucknell by three points to land the favorite's role in the Patriot League for 2015. The Rams finished undefeated in conference play en route to a double-digit win effort in 2014. They stomped Sacred Heart, 44-22, in the first round, before falling to eventual national semifinalist New Hampshire, 44-19, in the second round of the FCS playoffs.
As for the one game that Patriot League should mark on their calendars, November 7 should be that date. That's when Fordham does battle with Bucknell in the Bronx. That contest could very well decide not only the conference championship, but also the automatic bid to the FCS playoffs that goes with it.
Follow RFC on Twitter @realfootball.
2015 Media Guide
2015 Predictions
2015 Preseason All-Conference
Quick Analysis: In what was perhaps one of the closest preseason prediction votes in the history of college football, Fordham edged Bucknell by three points to land the favorite's role in the Patriot League for 2015. The Rams finished undefeated in conference play en route to a double-digit win effort in 2014. They stomped Sacred Heart, 44-22, in the first round, before falling to eventual national semifinalist New Hampshire, 44-19, in the second round of the FCS playoffs.
As for the one game that Patriot League should mark on their calendars, November 7 should be that date. That's when Fordham does battle with Bucknell in the Bronx. That contest could very well decide not only the conference championship, but also the automatic bid to the FCS playoffs that goes with it.
Follow RFC on Twitter @realfootball.
Saturday, August 08, 2015
NCAA Division I Quick Analysis Previews: Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC)
2014 Standings
2015 Media Guide
2015 Predictions/Preseason All-Americans
Quick Analysis: After ending up in a five-way tie for first place at the end of regular season, the Morgan State University Bears ended up being likely the last-ever automatic qualifier for the MEAC to the FCS playoffs in 2014. The Bears fell to Richmond, 46-24, in the first round last season.
As for the reason why the MEAC has chosen to give up its automatic bid to the FCS playoffs, here are two words: Celebration Bowl. In March, the MEAC and the SWAC agreed to a six-year deal to hold the Celebration Bowl in Atlanta, starting with the 2015 contest on December 19. It's probably just as well, though. The last playoff win from a current MEAC member came in 1999, when Florida A&M knocked off Troy State (now Troy) in the quarterfinals.
Speaking of the Rattlers, FAMU enters the 2015 season as one of three teams that must sit out postseason play because of a poor Academic Progress Rate (APR), with Howard and Savannah State being the other schools.
Follow RFC on Twitter @realfootball.
2015 Media Guide
2015 Predictions/Preseason All-Americans
Quick Analysis: After ending up in a five-way tie for first place at the end of regular season, the Morgan State University Bears ended up being likely the last-ever automatic qualifier for the MEAC to the FCS playoffs in 2014. The Bears fell to Richmond, 46-24, in the first round last season.
As for the reason why the MEAC has chosen to give up its automatic bid to the FCS playoffs, here are two words: Celebration Bowl. In March, the MEAC and the SWAC agreed to a six-year deal to hold the Celebration Bowl in Atlanta, starting with the 2015 contest on December 19. It's probably just as well, though. The last playoff win from a current MEAC member came in 1999, when Florida A&M knocked off Troy State (now Troy) in the quarterfinals.
Speaking of the Rattlers, FAMU enters the 2015 season as one of three teams that must sit out postseason play because of a poor Academic Progress Rate (APR), with Howard and Savannah State being the other schools.
Follow RFC on Twitter @realfootball.
BYU vs. San Diego State 1991
Back when the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) actually sponsored football at the NCAA Division I-A level, now the Football Bowl Subdivision...
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Thursday, August 06, 2015
RFC Small College Preview: Great American Conference (GAC)--(NCAA Division II)
Great American Conference (GAC)
2014 Standings
Looking back: The Ouachita Baptist University Tigers cruised to an undefeated regular season in 2014, finishing at 10-0 overall. But in the second round of the NCAA Division II playoffs, their season came to a stunning end, as they fell to Minnesota-Duluth at home, 48-45. The GAC's other playoff representative, Harding, didn't fare much better, with the Bisons falling to Pittsburg State, 59-42, in the first round. A third team, Henderson State, was snubbed for postseason play despite finishing 9-2 overall.
Looking ahead: Expect a three-way battle between Ouachita Baptist, Harding, and Henderson State for the GAC title in 2015.
Predicted order of finish (2014 overall record in parentheses):
1. Ouachita Baptist (10-1): Head Coach Todd Knight returns 14 starters from last year's playoff team,as the Tigers hope to return to postseason play this year.
2. Harding (9-2): The Bisons must rely on the contributions of defensive lineman Trevon Bigelow and linebacker Daylan Skidmore if they're to dethrone OBU in the GAC.
3. Henderson State (9-2): Home games against Harding and Ouachita Baptist could make or break the 2015 season for the Reddies.
4. Southeastern Oklahoma State (7-5): Coming off an appearance in the 2014 Texarkana Bowl, the Savage Storm hope to take the next step--not only towards their program's first-ever GAC championship, but also a trip to the NCAA Division II playoffs in 2015.
5. East Central (6-5): The Tigers must open the 2015 campaign at home against Ouachita Baptist--followed by a trip to Henderson State--as well as a pay a visit to Harding later this season.
6. Southern Arkansas (5-5): The Muleriders hope to be the beneficiaries of playing six home games this fall.
7. Southwestern Oklahoma State (3-7): The Bulldogs hope to move forward in 2015 after taking a step back in 2014.
8. Northwestern Oklahoma State (3-7): The Rangers will open the 2015 season with three of their first five games on the road.
9. Arkansas Tech (3-8): The Wonder Boys face a long, uphill battle after a season-ending six-game skid.
10. Arkansas-Monticello (2-8): The Boll Weevils find themselves in a similar situation entering 2015.
11. Southern Nazarene (0-11): The Crimson Storm have lost 22 straight games over two full seasons, dating back to the start of the 2013 season.
Not eligible for GAC title/NCAA Division II playoffs
Oklahoma Baptist (8-3): The Bison begin their third year of football merely playing for pride, after moving up from the NAIA ranks.
Follow RFC on Twitter @realfootball.
2014 Standings
Looking back: The Ouachita Baptist University Tigers cruised to an undefeated regular season in 2014, finishing at 10-0 overall. But in the second round of the NCAA Division II playoffs, their season came to a stunning end, as they fell to Minnesota-Duluth at home, 48-45. The GAC's other playoff representative, Harding, didn't fare much better, with the Bisons falling to Pittsburg State, 59-42, in the first round. A third team, Henderson State, was snubbed for postseason play despite finishing 9-2 overall.
Looking ahead: Expect a three-way battle between Ouachita Baptist, Harding, and Henderson State for the GAC title in 2015.
Predicted order of finish (2014 overall record in parentheses):
1. Ouachita Baptist (10-1): Head Coach Todd Knight returns 14 starters from last year's playoff team,as the Tigers hope to return to postseason play this year.
2. Harding (9-2): The Bisons must rely on the contributions of defensive lineman Trevon Bigelow and linebacker Daylan Skidmore if they're to dethrone OBU in the GAC.
3. Henderson State (9-2): Home games against Harding and Ouachita Baptist could make or break the 2015 season for the Reddies.
4. Southeastern Oklahoma State (7-5): Coming off an appearance in the 2014 Texarkana Bowl, the Savage Storm hope to take the next step--not only towards their program's first-ever GAC championship, but also a trip to the NCAA Division II playoffs in 2015.
5. East Central (6-5): The Tigers must open the 2015 campaign at home against Ouachita Baptist--followed by a trip to Henderson State--as well as a pay a visit to Harding later this season.
6. Southern Arkansas (5-5): The Muleriders hope to be the beneficiaries of playing six home games this fall.
7. Southwestern Oklahoma State (3-7): The Bulldogs hope to move forward in 2015 after taking a step back in 2014.
8. Northwestern Oklahoma State (3-7): The Rangers will open the 2015 season with three of their first five games on the road.
9. Arkansas Tech (3-8): The Wonder Boys face a long, uphill battle after a season-ending six-game skid.
10. Arkansas-Monticello (2-8): The Boll Weevils find themselves in a similar situation entering 2015.
11. Southern Nazarene (0-11): The Crimson Storm have lost 22 straight games over two full seasons, dating back to the start of the 2013 season.
Not eligible for GAC title/NCAA Division II playoffs
Oklahoma Baptist (8-3): The Bison begin their third year of football merely playing for pride, after moving up from the NAIA ranks.
Follow RFC on Twitter @realfootball.
Before They Became an FBS Group of Five Powerhouse...
The Boise State University Broncos made their mark as a rising star at the NCAA Division II level during the early to mid-1970's. Now sit back and enjoy, as the 1974 squad managed to advance to the playoffs that season, before losing to eventual national champion, Central Michigan, whom ironically, eventually moved up to what is now the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS), formerly NCAA Division I-A.
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Wednesday, August 05, 2015
NCAA Division I Quick Analysis Previews: American Athletic Conference
2014 Standings
2015 Media Guide
2015 Predictions
Quick Analysis: After sharing the American Athletic Conference (AAC) championship with Houston and Memphis at 7-1 in 2014, the University of Cincinnati Bearcats are the team to beat going into 2015. With a schedule that doesn't have any teams from a "Power Five" conference, don't be surprised if UC goes undefeated, and at least wins the automatic bid to one of the three host bowls in the College Football Playoff rotation.
Also, with the addition of Navy to the mix this season, the AAC will split into East and West Divsions, creating a championship game as a result.
Follow RFC on Twitter @realfootball.
2015 Media Guide
2015 Predictions
Quick Analysis: After sharing the American Athletic Conference (AAC) championship with Houston and Memphis at 7-1 in 2014, the University of Cincinnati Bearcats are the team to beat going into 2015. With a schedule that doesn't have any teams from a "Power Five" conference, don't be surprised if UC goes undefeated, and at least wins the automatic bid to one of the three host bowls in the College Football Playoff rotation.
Also, with the addition of Navy to the mix this season, the AAC will split into East and West Divsions, creating a championship game as a result.
Follow RFC on Twitter @realfootball.
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