2009 Kent State Golden Flashes Predictions
2008 Record: (4-8, 3-5)
Coach: Doug Martin, 6th year (19-39 overall)
Off. Coordinator: A.J. Pratt (2nd year)
Def. Coordinator: Pete Rekstis (6th year)
Returning Starters: 16 (7 offense, 7 defense, punter, kicker)
Ret. Starting Quarterback: No

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Offense: Kent State produced 25.7ppg last season and 400.3 yards per game, yet they still managed to go 4-8 overall. That’s because the defense was horrible, though now the offense has some issues namely at quarterback where they have to replace record-setting signal-caller Julian Edelman. Sophomore Giorgio Morgan and senior Anthony Magazu will battle it out with sophomore Sal Battles for the starting job. Senior RB Eugene Jarvis (5-5, 170) returns after running for 801 yards in just nine games. His backup Andre Flowers (5-11, 211) will get more touches this season in order to get Jarvis some rest. At receiver, they lack a big-play threat as they hope freshman Tyshon Goode can emerge after a strong spring. Up front, the Golden Flashes return four starters from a line that powered the offense to 230.6 yards per game rushing.

Defense: Kent State returns seven starters from a defense that allowed 31.7ppg (98th in the nation) and 395.2 yards per game (86th). The Golden Flashes have to replace both starting defensive ends. They do return senior Kevin Hogan (6-3, 228), a pass-rushing specialist, who recorded five sacks last year. At linebacker, Kent State loses two-time all-league pick Derek Burrell and Cedrick Maxwell. Junior Cobrani Mixon (6-1, 230) returns with two new starter alongside him. In the secondary, they are led by junior All-MAC performer Brian Lainhart (6-1, 207), who led the team with 106 tackles and six picks last year. They return three starters from a secondary that should be the strength of the team.

Outlook: Kent State opens with Coastal Carolina (1-AA) at home, followed by Boston College on the road. They also have to take on Iowa State at home and Baylor on the road. In the conference, they take on Buffalo and Western Michigan at home.

This MAC conference prediction is courtesy of the ATS Sports Blog. If you are looking for winning college football betting picks be sure to choose ATS Consultants this year, A featured sports handicapping service on Touthouse.com

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