Eastern Michigan Eagles - NCAA Football Odds, Lines & Betting

The Eagles would love to forget 2006, but that ugly 1-11 mark is now in the history books, so nobody – especially coach Jeff Genyk – can erase it. All they can do is try to make 2007 a bit better. Seven starters are back for an offense which ranked 107th in total offense and 114th in scoring offense, and that is unacceptable in a conference known for its poor defenses. 

Andy Schmitt (61.5%, 1,182 yards, 2 TD, 6 INT, 461 rush yards, 4 TD) and Tyler Jones (55.2%, 754 yards, 4 TD, 9 INT, 310 rush yards, 4 TD) are both back after splitting time last season, and they both had shoulder surgeries over the winter.  Running back Terrence Blevins should get more chances to get involved in the offense, especially with the graduation of receiver Eric Deslauriers.  However, it’s on defense where Genyk really needs to tighten up his team.  Last season’s unit was 98th in total defense and 116th in rushing defense.  The Eagles were only 39th in passing defense because teams realized Eastern Michigan couldn’t stop the run - so why bother with the pass?  Nine starters are back for Genyk, but the loss of Michael Richardson is a knock to the linebacking corps.  This means even more tackles for Daniel Holtzclaw, who had 114 last season, while Darren Matthews (100 tackles) combines with Holtzclaw to give the Eagles one of the MAC’s best linebacking duos.  Jason Jones is poised for a big season, and will anchor an experienced defensive line. The loss of kicker Andrew Wellock is also a worry for Genyk, but Sean Dutcher looked good in spring practice. 

The Eagles face a brutal three-game road trip to Vanderbilt, Michigan, and Ohio in midseason, before finishing up at Central Michigan.  After 2006, anything is an improvement, and the Eagles boast the personnel to win more games in 2007.

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