1. Casey Robinson, So, Troy University, 2010 stats: 321-505 (64%), 3,726 yds, 28 td’s, 15 int’s. Perspective: Robinson had one of the best seasons in the country for a Freshman. Robinson has the arm and accuracy to thread defenses in the passing game and is mobile enough to make plays outside of the pocket. Robinson really has an opportunity to help the Trojans gain some national recognition if he can continue to get better. The Trojans have a history of upsetting good teams on the road. With Robinson at the helm, Troy will have an opportunity to do that right off the bat as they have to travel to Clemson and Arkansas in back to back games to start the season.
2. Ryan Aplin, Jr, Arkansas State, 2010 stats: 250-408 (61%), 2,934 yds, 21 td’s, 11 int’s; 138 car, 477 yds, 11 td. Perspective: Aplin returns to the Red Wolves for his junior season. While Aplin’s numbers have been solid ASU has not done that well as a team. Arkansas State lost several close games last season and looks to finish better in 2011. With an improved Aplin at the helm, ASU may compete for a sun belt title this season.
3. Kolton Browning, So, Louisiana-Monroe, 2010 stats: 234-378 (62%), 2,552 yds, 18 td’s, 12 int’s. Perspective: Browning and the Warhawks look to improve on their 4-4 sun belt record in 2010. They showed signs of being competitive but just not consistently enough to be considered a contender for the conference title. ULM does have some upside with a solid young QB in Browning.
4. Wesley Carroll, Sr, Florida International, 2010 stats: 226-367 (62%), 2,623 yds, 16 td’s, 14 int’s. Perspective: Carroll lead FIU to a solid season in 2011. They went finished with a 6-2 record in the sun belt (2nd place) and played in a bowl game. FIU is definitely a contender for the conference crown in 2011.
5. Kawaun Jakes, Jr, Western Kentucky, 2010 stats: 149-291 (51%), 1,680 yds, 10 td’s, 6 int’s. Perspective: Jakes and the WKU Hilltoppers have a lot to improve on in 2010. They only won 2 games in sun belt play last season. Jakes is now a junior and needs to step up his game if WKU are to be competitive in 2011.
My predictions:
1. Troy
2. Florida International
3. Middle Tennessee
4. Arkansas State
5. Florida Atlantic
6. Louisiana-Monroe
7. Louisiana-Lafayette
8. Western Kentucky
9. North Texas