MAC East Champion: Temple (3-1, 1-0 MAC)

Sophomore running back Bernard Pierce certainly looked Heisman worthy against Connecticut with 169 yards on 26 carries, two rushing touchdowns and a 27-yard touchdown reception. However, Temple’s lack of passing game showed in a 22-13 loss to Penn State.

MAC East dark horse: Miami (2-2, 1-0)

Sophomore Zac Dysert can make opponents pay if they disrespect Miami’s pass game. But opponents can make Dysert pay by picking off his errant passes.

Where Kent State will end up: Third

Home schedule is favorable with Ohio and Temple coming to Dix Stadium. And the defense has been stellar. But then there’s that incredibly inconsistent offense. So here’s hoping that Jarvis can stay healthy for more than two games in a row.

MAC West Champion: Central Michigan (2-2, 1-1)

Butch Jones took flight for Cincinnati, but new head coach Dan Enos has the Chippewas playing well with close losses against Temple and Northwestern.

Sophomore quarterback Ryan Radcliff might be Dan LeFevour’s younger brother with 1142 yards and five touchdowns so far this year.

MAC West dark horse: Toledo (3-1, 2-0)

A 3-1 start bodes well for the Rockets, especially when those wins are on the road against Ohio, Western Michigan and Purdue.

MAC Championship game winner: Temple over Central Michigan, 23-13.

Contact John Johnston at [email protected].