Devy Conference Preview: MAC

Rob Willette Posted On July 26, 2014

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Conference previews for leagues other than the FBS heavyweights often appear to be merely placeholders until we get to the real tantalizing talent that inundates major college football. While in many cases that rings true, the MAC has a surfeit of offensive talent, and the emergence of Northern Illinois as an annual league power has added some panache to a conference that’s otherwise considered an also-ran. There is a plethora of talent to be found here if you’re looking in the right places.

Known Commodities

Travis Greene, RB Bowling Green Falcons

All that Travis Greene did in his first year as a running back was post one of the most impressive seasons by a runner in school history. Lost in the shuffle at wide receiver, his position switch sparked both his career and his stock. An intelligent runner that slithers through holes in the front seven, he’s an incredibly efficient runner despite lacking top shelf athleticism.

Titus Davis, WR Central Michigan Chippewas

A true Biletnikoff contender, Titus Davis could have been selected in the 2014 NFL Draft yet opted to continue his prolific career at Central Michigan. A deep threat with a wiry build and excellent body control, he’s the type of talent that can stretch a field and contribute in many different areas. An incredibly optimistic projection is former Chippewa Antonio Brown; more realistic projections profile him as a role player at the next level.

Corey Davis, WR Western Michigan Broncos

The younger brother of Titus Davis, Corey Davis is on his way to sharing his brother’s collegiate accolades and stands as the better long-term prospect of the two. His freshman campaign is even more impressive when juxtaposed with the state of the Western Michigan program in 2013; stars are seldom born on 1-11 squads. A well-built receiver with strong hands and physicality at the catch point, he will continue his ascent up the devy rankings throughout the 2014 season.

Kareem Hunt, RB Toledo Rockets

One of the key pieces in a surprisingly strong 2013 Toledo recruiting class, Kareem Hunt made an immediate contribution as a true freshman, surging past 800 yards on the ground and showcasing himself as one of the nation’s more under the radar backs. With continued growth expected, he is poised to become a household name.

[inlinead]Cameron Stingily, RB Northern Illinois Huskies

It is tough to ignore all the tasty name puns that come to mind when discussing Cameron Stingily. It is also tough to ignore the sheer force that is experienced when he makes contact with a defender. A true power back, he was the inside hammer for the Huskies in 2013 while Jordan Lynch did his damage on the perimeter. A bit limited as a north-south runner, there’s not much upside beyond continued excellence in the MAC.

Jahwan Edwards, RB Ball State Cardinals

The prolific Ball State passing offense led by Keith Wenning gave Jahwan Edwards an opportunity to cross the stripe 13 times last season. With Wenning now in the NFL, it is Edwards’ opportunity to become the focal point of the offense; another big year should be in store for the rugged runner.

Jordan Williams, WR Ball State Cardinals

Much like many of the other talents on this list, Jordan Williams is a physically imposing talent. Expect a dip in numbers with Wenning out of town, but remain intrigued by the next level potential.

Ready To Emerge

Saylor Lavallii, RB Central Michigan Chippewas

You could make an argument that Saylor Lavallii has already left an indelible imprint on the MAC given he racked up 807 yards on the ground as a sophomore in 2013. However, he faded down the stretch and lost an opportunity to produce what could have truly been a special season. A pinball runner with incredible balance, he is set to join the league’s upper tier of backs.

Tajae Sharp, WR UMass Minutemen

A rangy athlete with natural plucking ability, Tajae Sharp has become a juggernaut in the intermediate passing game. He’s got more downfield ability than he has shown thus far; as his game evolves, so will his stock.

Most Overrated

The out of nowhere breakout of Travis Greene was truly remarkable. When you’re buried on the receiver depth chart, few expect you to lead the team in rushing at some point in your career. Despite a monster season, I’m leery of his translatable skills. Bowling Green has a run-friendly system that plays perfectly to Greene’s strengths. There’s just not enough to invest a devy pick here, despite the impressions his numbers leave.

Most Underrated

Kareem Hunt is quietly building stock in the devy community, and 2014 is going to be his breakout party. Despite residing in the MAC – generally not known for its dominant talents – Hunt has a top level skill-set. He’ll litter the latter rounds of devy drafts in 2015.

MAC Top Ten