MAC East Champions: Temple

It’s hard to not go with the team that makes other MAC schools like Akron and Bowling Green look like a Division III Baldwin-Wallace. Running back Bernard Pierce will get the call to the NFL shortly after he delivers another winning season to the Owls.

MAC East Dark Horse: Kent State

It’s really a flip of the coin between Kent State and Miami, but you really need to look at the fine points here. Kent State’s defense ranks 22nd in the nation in total yards allowed. The RedHawks are talented, but the Flashes are more physical by nature.

Where Kent State will end up: Second

The only issue to really identify is the running attack of the Flashes. Doug Martin’s job depends on how he restarts the once famed ground game Eugene Jarvis led three seasons ago. Whether it’s Jacquise Terry, Jarvis, Dri Archer or freshman Rob Holloman, the backfield needs to get focused and help out quarterback Spencer Keith, or else you’ll see another missed bowl game opportunity for the home team.

MAC West Division Champions: Toledo

This is probably the hardest pick regarding MAC predictions all year. They aren’t the prettiest pick, but a big win over Purdue and a 2-0 MAC record to start now puts them where Kent State wants and needs to be — in discussions of bowl game possibilities.

MAC West Division Dark Horse: Northern Illinois (2-2, 0-0)

I think a lot of people forgot that Northern Illinois was in the MAC. The Huskies have done a lot of good things quietly, such as beat a Big-Ten opponent (Minnesota) and maintain the 12th best rushing attack in the nation. I warn you, scratch that, beg you: Do not overlook this team.

MAC championship game winner: Temple over Northern Illinois, 30-28

Contact Eddie Kilroy at [email protected].