Michael Hickey-US PRESSWIRE
COACH: Pete Lembo — At Ball State: 6-6, 1 year
OVERALL: 85-42, 11 years
OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Rich Skrosky
DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR: Jay Bateman
LAST LEAGUE TITLE: 1996
LAST BOWL: 2008, GMAC
RETURNING STARTERS: 15; 8 offense, 5 defense, kicker, punter
PLAYERS TO WATCH: QB Keith Wenning, TB Jahwan Edwards, MLB Travis Freeman, CB Jason Pinkston, DT Nathan Ollie
PRIMARY STRENGTHS: Ball State will have to be carried by its offense. The unit made nice strides in its first season under Lembo, and more of the playbook is being installed this season. Good special teams play is always a bonus, and the Cardinals have units that should rank among the best in the MAC.
POTENTIAL PROBLEMS: Defense is a concern again this year. The Cardinals need consistent play from two new ends, and their two safeties will be first-time starters. The unit has to tackle better and limit big plays, areas that were a major issue a year ago.
