posted July 15, 2008 at 17:43 in NCAA F Articles

Western Kentucky won seven games as they transitioned to Division I-AA football betting last year but likely won’t hit that number as they finish up their cross over this year. To be quite frank, they aren’t playing as many Division I-AA teams as they did last year.

The Hilltoppers will be moving in to the Sun Belt Conference and this year they’ll get a taste what it is like living with their new roommates. They’ll play five games against Sun Belt opponents.

Offense

The Hilltoppers are having a battle for the starting quarterback gig, which is continuing since the beginning of last season. K.J. Black and David Wolke were fighting for the starting spot but neither player had separated until Black performed well in spring games.

The running back situation is far more settled as junior tailback Tyrell Hayden returns. He ran for 1134 yards and 10 touchdowns last year and will again be the focal point of the offense. The offensive line is experienced with five upperclassmen starters, which means the running game could even get better this year.

The wide receiving group is deep but the quarterback situation hampers the passing game. This might get exposed even more as the quality of opponent improves.

Defense

The defense has to replace a lot of starters this year, which figures to incur some growing pains. Two new safeties are needed, as are four new members in the front seven.

Outside linebacker Blake Boyd is one of the better remaining playmakers but he missed the final three games last year and nursed a knee injury in spring training.

As a matter of fact, injuries were a consistent theme in spring. Defensive end Dan Cline was out with a foot problem and linebacker Alonzo Higgins also missed time with a groin injury.

With so many positions up for grab, the Hilltoppers needed as much practice time together but they didn’t get it. They will likely have to use some of the regular season time to gel, which will hinder their performance in games.

Outlook

There’s plenty of excitement (locally) surrounding the Hilltoppers as they make their transition to the Sun Belt Conference and try for their 13th consecutive winning season.

The schedule looks tough with five of the first six games being on the road. Indiana, Alabama and Kentucky are included in that rough opening stretch.

In total, there are only five home games. Five wins would be a good season but right now the Hilltoppers are honeymooning so they can comfortably focus on rebuilding this year.

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