When Conference USA came together in 1995, it did so as a hodgepodge of several teams, living up to its name. This version is more of the same, as the league got raided by the American and went into FCS, bringing in Sam Houston State and Jacksonville State, plus a pair of independents in Liberty and New Mexico State.
But the old guard looks like the stronger of the league’s members, as Western Kentucky, UTEP and Middle Tennessee are poised to step into the void that UTSA left behind. This league’s got a lot to be determined this year, and these questions are the biggest.
How Do the Newcomers Perform?
Sam Houston State and Jacksonville State don’t intend to be pushovers. They saw what James Madison did in the Sun Belt, and they believe the same can happen for them. Neither can play in a bowl until 2025, so they’ve got their sights set on upsetting the order in the league. Both K.C. Keeler and Rich Rodriguez know what they’re doing, and both return 16 starters from last season. Anyone expecting an easy time here is in for a shock.
Does Defense or Offense Win C-USA Championships?
Drive along Interstate 65, and you’ll find two radically different situations. Western Kentucky’s been all about its offense for years now, going from Bailey Zappe to Austin Reed at quarterback but not missing a beat. The Hilltoppers put up numbers like nobody’s business and have the potential to lead the conference again in offense.
Middle Tennessee’s the opposite. The Blue Raiders own the best defense in Conference USA, having experience and talent on their side, as well as the most experienced coach in the league in Rick Stockstill. They meet Sept. 28 in Bowling Green on a Thursday night, and it might decide who claims the league crown.
Can Jamey Chadwell Rebuild at Liberty?
Chadwell already built a quality program at Coastal Carolina, leaving it as one of the three best in the Sun Belt. Now he tries to keep things going at Liberty after Hugh Freeze mostly left the cupboard bare in Lynchburg. The Flames bring back just eight starters, but they’ve got a very soft schedule at their disposal this year. If the line and quarterback Kaidon Slater can provide a solid foundation, the Flames should be in a bowl.