FAVORITE TEAMS

UTSA and UAB are in a 2-way battle in one more season of C-USA. Other teams could play spoiler but positions and experience play important factors in this new-look conference. While UTSA has a veteran roster that looks to build on their conference title victory from last year, former coach Bill Clark set the foundation for UAB since they returned from hiatus in 2017. Now that he’s retired, former offensive coordinator Bryant Vincent takes over as interim head coach.

Who challenges UTSA and UAB?

Western Kentucky replaces all-conference QB Bailey Zappe for Bowling Green/West Virginia transfer Jarret Doege, but they replace so many receivers and their defense still has work cut out for them. However, quarterback Austin Reed won the job and proved his point on the field this past weekend. Also, receivers Daewood Davis kept this offense going and Malachi Corley showcased his skills and toughness for 3 reception touchdowns. They may run it back this season.

FAU will try to finish what they’ve started this season after starting 5-3 and imploding in the last 4 losses last season.

North Texas won one, lost six straight and managed to survive with 5-straight wins to make a bowl game after a few tweaks on offense. They look to continue that momentum in 2022 after committing to Austin Aune as their quarterback.

UTEP has their most experienced roster returning in a long while, but quarterback Gavin Hardison must improve his throwing percentage and receivers must step up to back him up.

And the rest?

Charlotte also has most of their players back from last season could make more noise in the conference and college football.

Mid Tenn was in a similar spot with a 1-3 start, but finished with a 6-3 run and a bowl win. Their offense could decide how their season plays out.

Louisiana Tech may need a year to rebuild to challenge for the conference title, but a bowl appearance isn’t out of the question.

Rice spoiled Marshall in 2020 and UAB last season. Do they have an offense and quarterback figured out? If they do, that goes a long way for the team and their defense will finally feel relief.

FIU coach Mike MacIntyre has work cut out for him and could use time to rebuild the program.

Is it just the UTSA vs. UAB conference championship?

It’s likely possible. But after Western Kentucky, FAU, and North Texas went on a tear in Week 0, they may spoil one of them. Western Kentucky has the best shot at both of them on their schedule while FAU has UAB at home and North Texas travels to UTSA. If UTSA or UAB slip up, one or two could steal the spot.