Official 2012 SoCon Predictions

By Russell V.
SouthernPigskin.com

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A collection of perennial powers will battle it out for SoCon supremacy.

Now that we are around a week away from kickoff, let’s take a look at how each team will finish in the SoCon and the key player for success for each squad.

9. Western Carolina

Last year: 1-10 (0-8 SoCon)

Key Player: RB Michael Johnson, Sr.

This year: 1-10 (0-8)

Nothing will be easy for Mark Spier in his first year as head coach of the Catamounts. Establishing a solid running game couldn’t hurt turn things around for Western, which is where former SoCon Freshman of the Year Michael Johnson comes into play.

t-7. Elon

Last year: 5-6 (3-5)

Key Player: QB Thomas Wilson, Sr.

This year: 4-7 (2-6)

The Phoenix will score plenty of points as long as receiver Aaron Mellette is out on the field. The key for Elon is to limit turnovers, something they struggled mightily with last season. If Wilson in particular can cut back on the turnovers, the Phoenix could surprise some people this year.

t-7. The Citadel

Last year: 4-7 (2-6)

Key Player: RB Darien Robinson, Jr.

This year: 4-7 (2-6)

The Bulldogs have been taking baby steps as they have become a triple option offense. Now, they need to focus on taking bigger steps. After rushing for 862 yards and nine touchdowns a year ago, Robinson will be the key to the Citadel offense. An improvement on those numbers will surely mean a successful season in Charleston.

t-7. Furman

Last year: 6-5 (5-3)

Key Player: QB Dakota Derrick, Sr.

This year: 4-7 (2-6)

Furman’s player losses have been well documented by this point, and there is plenty of talent which must be replaced. But there is also plenty of talent returning in RB Jerodis Williams, TE Colin Anderson and DB Mitch McGrath. The biggest question mark is how well Dakota Derrick can replace Chris Forcier at the quarterback position.

5. Samford

Last year: 6-5 (4-4)

Key Player: LB Keith Shoulders, Sr.

This year: 6-5 (4-4)

Samford has always been known for their solid defense and strong running game. RB Fabian Truss and WR Kelsey Pope lead the offensive attack, but Shoulders will need to take his play to the next level to keep the Bulldogs’ defense at their traditional form.

4. Chattanooga

Last year: 5-6 (3-5)

Key Player:  QBTerrell Robinson, So.

This year: 7-4 (5-3)

Since Russ Huesman took over at Chattanooga, the Mocs have continuously been knocking at the door, trying to get over the hump but ultimately falling short. Robinson sparkled and shined brightly when he played last year, earning co-Freshman of the Year honors. What can he do when he alone has the keys to the offense?

3. Wofford

Last year: 8-4 (6-2)

Key Player: QB Brian Kass, Jr.

This year: 8-3 (6-2)

Now that Mitch Allen is gone, a lot of pressure will be on Kass’ shoulders. The Terriers return almost all of their key players from last season’s playoff squad, but they do have to deal with road trips to Boone and Statesboro this year. Hope you can learn quickly, Kass.

2. Appalachian State

Last year: 8-4 (6-2)

Key Player: RB Steven Miller, Sr.

This year: 9-2 (7-1)

In the Mountaineers’ heyday, their offense was highlighted by their impact rushing offense. App has gone away from their roots recently, finishing 6th in the SoCon in rushing offense last season. A big season from Miller to compliment the play of QB Jamal Jackson and LB Jeremy Kimbrough could very well see the Mountaineers back on top.

1. Georgia Southern

Last year: 11-3 (8-1)

Key Player: QB Jerick McKinnon, Jr./QB Ezayi Youyoute, So.

This year: 10-1 (8-0)

QB Jaybo Shaw was one of the biggest reasons for the Eagles’ quick turnaround following their return to the triple option. Now that he is gone, extra pressure will be on his replacement – whether it is McKinnon or Youyoute. The Eagles return most of their other stars (including star DT Brent Russell) and host Wofford and Appalachian State at home. It should be another big year for the Eagles.