AGS 2008 Pre-Season Poll - FINAL

[slostang]

Any Given Saturday Poll Top 25

PRE-SEASON 5/26/2008
(First place votes in parenthesis)
1. Appalachian St. (76)
2. James Madison (2)
3. Richmond (1)
4. North Dakota St. (2)
5. Northern Iowa
6. Massachusetts
7. Montana
8. McNeese St.
9. Eastern Washington
10. Wofford
11. Delaware
12. Southern Illinois
13. Cal Poly (1)
14. Youngstown St.
15. Elon
16. Georgia Southern
17. Villanova
18. South Dakota St.
19. Eastern Illinois
20. New Hampshire
21. The Citadel
22. Eastern Kentucky
23. Fordham
24. Yale
25. Furman
Others receiving votes (minimum of 5 votes): Harvard (33), Sam Houston St. (31), Delaware St. (29), Northern Arizona (27), Central Arkansas (24), Montana St. (24), Jackson St. (23), South Carolina St. (22), Jacksonville St. (18), Grambling St. (16), Liberty (16), Holy Cross (14), Western Illinois (13), Albany (12), Hofstra (12), Dayton (10), Hampton (10), Nicholls St. (7), Coastal Carolina (5), Colgate (5), Norfolk St. (5)

TEAM MOST ON THE RISE: Cal Poly
TEAM FALLING THE MOST: Delaware

[Syntax Error]

no comment on the poll results from me............ yet

as my fiancee would say...... wonder

congrats to all the teams though!

[Tribe4SF]

Here's a comment. UMass, Montana and Wofford too high. Ga Southern, Villanova and SDSU too low.

[ChickenMan]

Delaware has huge questions at the QB and a couple of OL positions.. if they aren't answered positively.. UD won't be anywhere near the Top 10.

[Millwoch]

We already have a top 20 matchup for the first week, with Richmond visiting Elon. We will start to straighten this thing out very early. Should be fun to watch. I think the poll looks pretty good. Of course, some will fall and some will rise.

[Grizalltheway]

Here's a comment. UMass, Montana and Wofford too high. Ga Southern, Villanova and SDSU too low.

Where have I heard this before? xrolleyesx

[I-AA Fan]

Delaware has huge questions at the QB and a couple of OL positions.. if they aren't answered positively.. UD won't be anywhere near the Top 10.

Questions at QB? This is his best IA fallout yet. Wish I had those questions.

[smallcollegefbfan]

Like some of you have stated a few teams seem to be too high and too low but nobody really knows until they hit the field.

[blackfordpu]

I am pretty sure this is the first pre-season poll I have participated in that only had one SLC team in it. I can not believe UCA isn't in there and SHSU got more votes. xeekx

[slostang]

I think that UCA has a very good chance of being in the last 2008 AGS poll. They return 20 starters and have a great young QB.

[Seawolf97]

Good poll! As always things will shake out by week 3 or 4.

[Syntax Error]

Here's a comment. UMass, Montana and Wofford too high. Ga Southern, Villanova and SDSU too low.Interested in what you see in GSU and SDSU.

[jmu_duke07]

I think JMU should've gotten more 1st place votes, however, I'm fine where we sit xthumbsupx

[Skjellyfetti]

Any Given Saturday Poll Top 25

PRE-SEASON 5/26/2008
(First place votes in parenthesis)
1. Appalachian St. (76)
2. James Madison (2)

Is it September 20th yet? xmadx

[URMite]

Biggest drop from final 2007-
Dayton
Delaware St
UD
SIU
EKU
Biggest gain-
Cal Poly
Elon
JMU

Two biggest surprises for me -
Size of the gain for CP.
Lack of much of a drop for EIU.

Anything else?

[JmuSkinsfan]

Is it September 20th yet? xmadx

Even with potential losses to Duke (JMU) and Appy (LSU) early on...I hope these poll positions hold until Sept. 20. Potential to be the biggest FCS regular season game in a long time? I haven't followed for long (since I got to JMU) but have there been many 1/2 match-ups in FCS regular seasons?

[slostang]

Biggest drop from final 2007-
Dayton
Delaware St
UD
SIU
EKU
Biggest gain-
Cal Poly
Elon
JMU

Two biggest surprises for me -
Size of the gain for CP.
Lack of much of a drop for EIU.

Anything else?

I am surprised that Cal Poly did not make a bigger jump.

They return 10 of 11 starters off an offense that averaged 487 yds/gm and scored 39.3 pts/gm. They return the highest rated QB (Jonathan Dally at 196.7 - 2,238 yds with 29 TDs and only 5 INTs and 768 yds rushing with 12 more TDs) and one of the top WR in Ramses Barden (57 receptions for 1,458 yds and 18 TDs). They also return the number 5 rushing offense at 272.2 yds/gm and return all of their top 5 rushers.

Cal Poly is known more as a defensive team. They dropped a little on the defensive side of the ball in 2007, but returned 7 starters and should be better in 2008.

[ursus arctos horribilis]

I am surprised that Cal Poly did not make a bigger jump.

They return 10 of 11 starters off an offense that averaged 487 yds/gm and scored 39.3 pts/gm. They return the highest rated QB (Jonathan Dally at 196.7 - 2,238 yds with 29 TDs and only 5 INTs and 768 yds rushing with 12 more TDs) and one of the top WR in Ramses Barden (57 receptions for 1,458 yds and 18 TDs). They also return the number 5 rushing offense at 272.2 yds/gm and return all of their top 5 rushers.

Cal Poly is known more as a defensive team. They dropped a little on the defensive side of the ball in 2007, but returned 7 starters and should be better in 2008.

Agree with everything you say here. Cal Poly could easily switch spots with Montana and I wouldn't have a problem with it.

[URMite]

Thanks SLO,
I guess falls are easier to predict than rises and I saw the other two coming because they are on our schedule.

[Grizaholic17]

Here's a comment. UMass, Montana and Wofford too high. Ga Southern, Villanova and SDSU too low.

that's why you're not part of the voting.

[GOKATS]

I am surprised that Cal Poly did not make a bigger jump.

They return 10 of 11 starters off an offense that averaged 487 yds/gm and scored 39.3 pts/gm. They return the highest rated QB (Jonathan Dally at 196.7 - 2,238 yds with 29 TDs and only 5 INTs and 768 yds rushing with 12 more TDs) and one of the top WR in Ramses Barden (57 receptions for 1,458 yds and 18 TDs). They also return the number 5 rushing offense at 272.2 yds/gm and return all of their top 5 rushers.

Cal Poly is known more as a defensive team. They dropped a little on the defensive side of the ball in 2007, but returned 7 starters and should be better in 2008.

I guess I was suprised as well, I had Cal Poly in the top ten and ahead of EWU and the griz- I also picked Cal Poly as the team on the rise.

[FormerPokeCenter]

McNeese is too high as well....not a top ten team at this point, and definitely doesn't deserve to be ranked higher than the team that beat the snot out of us in the first round, Eastern Washington. How did that happen?

[poly51]

The first 3 weeks should sort some of this out for Cal Poly:

Aug 30 at FBS San Diego State
Sept 6 #7 Montana at SLO
Sept 13 at #8 McNeese St

[patssle]

McNeese at 8th? Are you serious?

They had a joke of a schedule vs. a 3-8 Portland, 3-9 ULL from the Sun Belch, 0-11 Southern Utah, D2 South Dakota, then the weak SLC.

Then they finally faced some REAL competition in the playoffs...and promptly get plastered.

8th means they can compete with ranked opponents. They have done NOTHING to prove they can.

Over-rated.


Disclaimer: I also argued against SHSU's pre-season ranking last year since we had not proved anything as well. So I'm consistent in calling for substantial reasoning behind a ranking and not merely attacking McNeese ;)

[blueballs]

Furman especially and Elon are both ranked too low...

... Furman will be really tough this year and will be a force in the playoffs, remember you heard it here first.

[AppStFan76]

If the App St. vs. JMU game is not televised it will be a shame. IMO that will be the best FCS game of the year.xthumbsupx

[DetroitFlyer]

Same old same old. Yale ranked, Dayton dropped something like 20 spots. The anti-PFL bias on this board is absolutely out of line. This "poll" is exactly why that stupid earned access thing is such a crock.... AGS poll = ZERO credibility IMHO...!

[smallcollegefbfan]

I think that UCA has a very good chance of being in the last 2008 AGS poll. They return 20 starters and have a great young QB.

Brown is a senior. Don't you mean great experienced QB?

[smallcollegefbfan]

I am surprised that Cal Poly did not make a bigger jump.

They return 10 of 11 starters off an offense that averaged 487 yds/gm and scored 39.3 pts/gm. They return the highest rated QB (Jonathan Dally at 196.7 - 2,238 yds with 29 TDs and only 5 INTs and 768 yds rushing with 12 more TDs) and one of the top WR in Ramses Barden (57 receptions for 1,458 yds and 18 TDs). They also return the number 5 rushing offense at 272.2 yds/gm and return all of their top 5 rushers.

Cal Poly is known more as a defensive team. They dropped a little on the defensive side of the ball in 2007, but returned 7 starters and should be better in 2008.

I would say Barden is the best WR in the FCS by far. He is the best NFL prospect as well.

I agree on the offense being very good and that the defense should be improved. I think Cal Poly is a top 10 team for sure.

[smallcollegefbfan]

that's why you're not part of the voting.

If he posted more he would be... xthumbsupx

[smallcollegefbfan]

McNeese is too high as well....not a top ten team at this point, and definitely doesn't deserve to be ranked higher than the team that beat the snot out of us in the first round, Eastern Washington. How did that happen?

Agreed. EWU should be a top 5-7 team if the offensive line can replace Matt Alfred and Rocky Hanni.

[smallcollegefbfan]

McNeese at 8th? Are you serious?

They had a joke of a schedule vs. a 3-8 Portland, 3-9 ULL from the Sun Belch, 0-11 Southern Utah, D2 South Dakota, then the weak SLC.

Then they finally faced some REAL competition in the playoffs...and promptly get plastered.

8th means they can compete with ranked opponents. They have done NOTHING to prove they can.

Over-rated.


Disclaimer: I also argued against SHSU's pre-season ranking last year since we had not proved anything as well. So I'm consistent in calling for substantial reasoning behind a ranking and not merely attacking McNeese ;)

Good points. Their scheduled will be tougher this year so we will find out how good they are!

[smallcollegefbfan]

Same old same old. Yale ranked, Dayton dropped something like 20 spots. The anti-PFL bias on this board is absolutely out of line. This "poll" is exactly why that stupid earned access thing is such a crock.... AGS poll = ZERO credibility IMHO...!

I think poll voters are waiting to vote PFL teams once they beat ranked teams. I did not vote any PFL teams in the preseason but did vote San Diego most of the year last season.

If Dayton wins that September 19th showdown they will be ranked for sure.

08/31/08 at Central State (Ohio) Welcome Stadium 5:00 PM ET
09/13/08 vs. Fordham Welcome Stadium 1:00 PM ET
09/20/08 vs. Robert Morris Welcome Stadium 1:00 PM ET
09/27/08 at Duquesne Pittsburgh, PA 1:00 PM ET
10/04/08 vs. Campbell * Welcome Stadium 1:00 PM ET
10/11/08 vs. Drake * Welcome Stadium 1:00 PM ET
10/18/08 at Davidson * Davidson, NC 1:00 PM ET
10/25/08 vs. Valparaiso * Welcome Stadium 1:00 PM ET
11/01/08 at San Diego * San Diego, CA 9:00 PM ET
11/08/08 at Butler * Indianapolis, IN 1:00 PM ET
11/15/08 vs. Morehead State * Welcome Stadium 1:00 PM ET
11/22/08 at Jacksonville * Jacksonville, FL 12:00 PM ET

[Saint3333]

Same old same old. Yale ranked, Dayton dropped something like 20 spots. The anti-PFL bias on this board is absolutely out of line. This "poll" is exactly why that stupid earned access thing is such a crock.... AGS poll = ZERO credibility IMHO...!

Play a solid OOC schedule and then complainxrolleyesx.

[onbison09]

Should be a really fun season in the Gateway. Can't wait for the season to start.

[smallcollegefbfan]

Play a solid OOC schedule and then complainxrolleyesx.

I posted their schedule above and I must agree on your point. Fordham is the only good team and while they are good they are not an expected top 10 team. It is not like they have 2-3 AGS Preseason top 10 teams on their schedule.

[Eaglesrus]

Here's a comment. UMass, Montana and Wofford too high. Ga Southern, Villanova and SDSU too low.

Thanks for the vote of confidence; in fact, I wish I was that confident! I do have a lot of hope, but we have many questions to be answered.

[Syntax Error]

McNeese at 8th? Are you serious?More Men in Orange. xcoffeex
Same old same old. Yale ranked, Dayton dropped something like 20 spots. The anti-PFL bias on this board is absolutely out of line. This "poll" is exactly why that stupid earned access thing is such a crock.... AGS poll = ZERO credibility IMHO...!DetroitFlyer = ZERO credibility IMHO because you post with zero reasons why Dayton should be top 25. Oh yeah, they are eligible so I guess they should be top 25...... ask the NEC. xrolleyesx

[Mountain Panther]

I am VERY happy with #5. xthumbsupx

[GOKATS]

Agreed. EWU should be a top 5-7 team if the offensive line can replace Matt Alfred and Rocky Hanni.

And they have a new HC, but he's familiar with the school having been an assistant before. If Paul Wulff hadn't stepped up I'd definitely have EWU in that range.

[McNeese75]

I am surprised that Cal Poly did not make a bigger jump.

They return 10 of 11 starters off an offense that averaged 487 yds/gm and scored 39.3 pts/gm. They return the highest rated QB (Jonathan Dally at 196.7 - 2,238 yds with 29 TDs and only 5 INTs and 768 yds rushing with 12 more TDs) and one of the top WR in Ramses Barden (57 receptions for 1,458 yds and 18 TDs). They also return the number 5 rushing offense at 272.2 yds/gm and return all of their top 5 rushers.

Cal Poly is known more as a defensive team. They dropped a little on the defensive side of the ball in 2007, but returned 7 starters and should be better in 2008.

They certainly did in my poll xnodx

[McNeese75]

McNeese at 8th? Are you serious?

They had a joke of a schedule vs. a 3-8 Portland, 3-9 ULL from the Sun Belch, 0-11 Southern Utah, D2 South Dakota, then the weak SLC.

Then they finally faced some REAL competition in the playoffs...and promptly get plastered.

8th means they can compete with ranked opponents. They have done NOTHING to prove they can.

Over-rated.


Disclaimer: I also argued against SHSU's pre-season ranking last year since we had not proved anything as well. So I'm consistent in calling for substantial reasoning behind a ranking and not merely attacking McNeese ;)

Must be that time of the month P xlolx

[CopperCat]

Very interesting poll. I agree with some of ya'll on here that Cal Poly is a team on the rise, but I think Georgia Southern could show some marked improvement as well (which is why I voted for them). Wouldn't put too much stake in this as we'll will most likely see who is a contender/pretender the first couple weeks of the season. (but UM is still too high:D )

Until then, its all just for fun.xthumbsupx xnodx

[T-Dog]

Any Given Saturday Poll Top 25

PRE-SEASON 5/26/2008
(First place votes in parenthesis)
1. Appalachian St. (76)
2. James Madison (2)
3. Richmond (1)
4. North Dakota St. (2)
5. Northern Iowa
6. Massachusetts
7. Montana
8. McNeese St.
9. Eastern Washington
10. Wofford
11. Delaware
12. Southern Illinois
13. Cal Poly (1)
14. Youngstown St.
15. Elon
16. Georgia Southern
17. Villanova
18. South Dakota St.
19. Eastern Illinois
20. New Hampshire
21. The Citadel
22. Eastern Kentucky
23. Fordham
24. Yale
25. Furman


6 out of the 9 SoCon teams in the Top 25 (technically until July 1st it's 6 out of 8). And with some people saying Furman and Elon are too low. Nice xthumbsupx

I know some people think Delaware are high still, but they finished 2nd in the Nation last year. Until you get knocked off your still number two IMO.

And for the record, I didn't vote. I could have as I got the info to, but chose not to.

[Cocky]

Call me around the first of October and I will care about rankings.

[Rob Iola]

82 voters and no silly #1 picks for the preseason poll - not a bad sampling; probably translates into a reasonably intelligent prediction for the season...

[Rob Iola]

Same old same old. Yale ranked, Dayton dropped something like 20 spots. The anti-PFL bias on this board is absolutely out of line. This "poll" is exactly why that stupid earned access thing is such a crock.... AGS poll = ZERO credibility IMHO...!
None of the ranked teams last year would lose to Morehead State (except you guys). Run the table this year and I promise you I'll give them my #15 vote (no higher based on strength of schedule). And yes, I'm paying attention...

[Jerbearasu]

6 out of the 9 SoCon teams in the Top 25 (technically until July 1st it's 6 out of 8). And with some people saying Furman and Elon are too low. Nice xthumbsupx

I know some people think Delaware are high still, but they finished 2nd in the Nation last year. Until you get knocked off your still number two IMO.

And for the record, I didn't vote. I could have as I got the info to, but chose not to.

So App will have to play 6 teams in the Top 25 plus a top FBS program. This schedule includes a possible #1 vs #2 matchup against JMU... Talk about strength of schedule!

[CID1990]

I cannot understand why The Citadel is ranked so high. We will be lucky to win 4.

[smallcollegefbfan]

I cannot understand why The Citadel is ranked so high. We will be lucky to win 4.

I know you are joking but if you look at The Citadel's schedule they only have 2 games that are guaranteed losses and one against the #1 team.

Webber International, Princeton, Western carolina, Chatty, and Samford should be wins and Wofford is losing a lot of talent on defense. I think they were overrated a little bit in the poll.

Furman, GSU, Wofford, and Elon are all toss ups. App State will be very tough.

I bolded games that I feel you guys will win. I have you 9-3 and 7-5 worst case. If you guys are 9-3 and 2 losses to FBS programs you are looking at a top 10 ranking.

Sat, Aug 30 Webber International Johnson Hagood Stadium 7:00 p.m.
Sat, Sep 06 Clemson at Clemson, S.C. TBA
Sat, Sep 20 Princeton Johnson Hagood Stadium 1:00 p.m.
Sat, Sep 27 Western Carolina * Johnson Hagood Stadium 1:00 p.m.
Sat, Oct 04 Appalachian State * at Boone, N.C. 2:30 p.m.
Sat, Oct 11 Elon * Johnson Hagood Stadium 2:00 p.m.
Sat, Oct 18 Furman * at Greenville, S.C. TBA
Sat, Oct 25 Samford * at Birmingham, Ala. TBA
Sat, Nov 01 Georgia Southern * Johnson Hagood Stadium 1:00 p.m
Sat, Nov 08 Wofford * at Spartanburg, S.C. 1:30 p.m.
Sat, Nov 15 Chattanooga (Homecoming) *Johnson Hagood Stadium 2:00 p.m.
Sat, Nov 22 Florida at Gainesville, Fla. TBA

[Cap'n Cat]

Call me around the first of October and I will care about rankings.



Exactly.


Rep points.

[Appguy]

I also chose not to vote, I don't like the idea of preseason polls.

I really do find it hilarious though that I had the same 6 Socon teams in my poll at some point last season and my vote got rejected with a message from agspoll saying i forgot Western and chattanooga.
now whos laughing?xthumbsupx xrulesx

[Syntax Error]

I also chose not to vote, I don't like the idea of preseason polls.
I really do find it hilarious though that I had the same 6 Socon teams in my poll at some point last season and my vote got rejected with a message from agspoll saying i forgot Western and chattanooga.
now whos laughing?http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1076/1418214718_eca5dd18cf.jpg

I'm laughing. You forgot Western and Chattanooga! xrolleyesx

[McTailGator]

I am pretty sure this is the first pre-season poll I have participated in that only had one SLC team in it. I can not believe UCA isn't in there and SHSU got more votes. xeekx


I also believe UCA should be a top 10 team.

Well coached and they return a LOT of talented players with pride and heart.

They will win a lot of games this year, and I think the conference title will be determined in Conway, Ak in the last game of the season.

[The Gadfly]

Coastal's ranked too high

[Millwoch]

None of the ranked teams last year would lose to Morehead State (except you guys). Run the table this year and I promise you I'll give them my #15 vote (no higher based on strength of schedule). And yes, I'm paying attention...

The rules of the poll are set up to throw out the homer #1 picks.

[AppAlum2003]

Same old same old. Yale ranked, Dayton dropped something like 20 spots. The anti-PFL bias on this board is absolutely out of line. This "poll" is exactly why that stupid earned access thing is such a crock.... AGS poll = ZERO credibility IMHO...!

Can we see your rankings, oh wise one?

[Millwoch]

I know you are joking but if you look at The Citadel's schedule they only have 2 games that are guaranteed losses and one against the #1 team.

Webber International, Princeton, Western carolina, Chatty, and Samford should be wins and Wofford is losing a lot of talent on defense. I think they were overrated a little bit in the poll.

Furman, GSU, Wofford, and Elon are all toss ups. App State will be very tough.

I bolded games that I feel you guys will win. I have you 9-3 and 7-5 worst case. If you guys are 9-3 and 2 losses to FBS programs you are looking at a top 10 ranking.

Sat, Aug 30 Webber International Johnson Hagood Stadium 7:00 p.m.
Sat, Sep 06 Clemson at Clemson, S.C. TBA
Sat, Sep 20 Princeton Johnson Hagood Stadium 1:00 p.m.
Sat, Sep 27 Western Carolina * Johnson Hagood Stadium 1:00 p.m.
Sat, Oct 04 Appalachian State * at Boone, N.C. 2:30 p.m.
Sat, Oct 11 Elon * Johnson Hagood Stadium 2:00 p.m.
Sat, Oct 18 Furman * at Greenville, S.C. TBA
Sat, Oct 25 Samford * at Birmingham, Ala. TBA
Sat, Nov 01 Georgia Southern * Johnson Hagood Stadium 1:00 p.m
Sat, Nov 08 Wofford * at Spartanburg, S.C. 1:30 p.m.
Sat, Nov 15 Chattanooga (Homecoming) *Johnson Hagood Stadium 2:00 p.m.
Sat, Nov 22 Florida at Gainesville, Fla. TBA

Problem is we play all those tough games on the road except GSU and Elon. We play at Clemson, Florida, Appy, FU, and Woffy. Very tall task to win even 2 of those. That means we must be perfect at home. Elon and GSU will make that very hard to do. It will be a fun year.

[McTailGator]

McNeese at 8th? Are you serious?

They had a joke of a schedule vs. a 3-8 Portland, 3-9 ULL from the Sun Belch, 0-11 Southern Utah, D2 South Dakota, then the weak SLC.

Then they finally faced some REAL competition in the playoffs...and promptly get plastered.

8th means they can compete with ranked opponents. They have done NOTHING to prove they can.

Over-rated.


Disclaimer: I also argued against SHSU's pre-season ranking last year since we had not proved anything as well. So I'm consistent in calling for substantial reasoning behind a ranking and not merely attacking McNeese ;)



Don't forget that REALLY $_i_ty SHSU team with the car dealing OVER RATED limp QB, and D-II coaching staff.

Boy they really hurt McNeese strength of schedule a lot did they not?

And FOR the record. McNeese beat every opponet but NSU by a minimum of 3 Touchdowns, including the FBS team we played. That had to account for something.

This will be the 3rd year of my; Three year in a row McNeese Championship run prediction. Prior to the 2006 season, I stated publicly that McNeese would win the SLC in 06, 07, and 08.

Once I can judge how much UCA has progressed, and how well our new defensive coaches have done this year, as well as how good our running backs look this year and in the spring , I may want to expand my 3 year in a row championship run to a record FOUR year run.

Remember the names, Whitehead, Taylor, and Landry... YOU WILL HEAR THEM A LOT AND OFTEN...

[Millwoch]

I know you are joking but if you look at The Citadel's schedule they only have 2 games that are guaranteed losses and one against the #1 team.

Webber International, Princeton, Western carolina, Chatty, and Samford should be wins and Wofford is losing a lot of talent on defense. I think they were overrated a little bit in the poll.

Furman, GSU, Wofford, and Elon are all toss ups. App State will be very tough.

I bolded games that I feel you guys will win. I have you 9-3 and 7-5 worst case. If you guys are 9-3 and 2 losses to FBS programs you are looking at a top 10 ranking.

Sat, Aug 30 Webber International Johnson Hagood Stadium 7:00 p.m.
Sat, Sep 06 Clemson at Clemson, S.C. TBA
Sat, Sep 20 Princeton Johnson Hagood Stadium 1:00 p.m.
Sat, Sep 27 Western Carolina * Johnson Hagood Stadium 1:00 p.m.
Sat, Oct 04 Appalachian State * at Boone, N.C. 2:30 p.m.
Sat, Oct 11 Elon * Johnson Hagood Stadium 2:00 p.m.
Sat, Oct 18 Furman * at Greenville, S.C. TBA
Sat, Oct 25 Samford * at Birmingham, Ala. TBA
Sat, Nov 01 Georgia Southern * Johnson Hagood Stadium 1:00 p.m
Sat, Nov 08 Wofford * at Spartanburg, S.C. 1:30 p.m.
Sat, Nov 15 Chattanooga (Homecoming) *Johnson Hagood Stadium 2:00 p.m.
Sat, Nov 22 Florida at Gainesville, Fla. TBA

Problem is we play all those tough games on the road except GSU and Elon. We play at Clemson, Florida, Appy, FU, and Woffy. Very tall task to win even 2 of those. That means we must be perfect at home. Elon and GSU will make that very hard to do. It will be a fun year.

[Eyes of Old Main]

I appreciate that the voters think so much of Wofford's chances, but there's no way the Terriers will be a Top 10 team this year. Maybe in 2009 and 2010, but this is will be a year where lots of young talent gets plenty of opportunity to play. Wofford will probably end up somewhere between 6-5 and 8-3 the way I see it; and more likely towards the lower end of that range.

[Syntax Error]

Until you get knocked off your still number two IMO.Ah, wistful thinking.

[JmuSkinsfan]

Any Given Saturday Poll Top 25

PRE-SEASON 5/26/2008
(First place votes in parenthesis)
1. Appalachian St. (76)
2. James Madison (2)
3. Richmond (1)
4. North Dakota St. (2)
5. Northern Iowa
6. Massachusetts
7. Montana
8. McNeese St.
9. Eastern Washington
10. Wofford
11. Delaware
12. Southern Illinois
13. Cal Poly (1)
14. Youngstown St.
15. Elon
16. Georgia Southern
17. Villanova
18. South Dakota St.
19. Eastern Illinois
20. New Hampshire
21. The Citadel
22. Eastern Kentucky
23. Fordham
24. Yale
25. Furman
Others receiving votes (minimum of 5 votes): Harvard (33), Sam Houston St. (31), Delaware St. (29), Northern Arizona (27), Central Arkansas (24), Montana St. (24), Jackson St. (23), South Carolina St. (22), Jacksonville St. (18), Grambling St. (16), Liberty (16), Holy Cross (14), Western Illinois (13), Albany (12), Hofstra (12), Dayton (10), Hampton (10), Nicholls St. (7), Coastal Carolina (5), Colgate (5), Norfolk St. (5)

TEAM MOST ON THE RISE: Cal Poly
TEAM FALLING THE MOST: Delaware

JMU opens with Duke as well. Luckily, JMU will play #1 ASU, #6 UMass and #11 Delaware at home with #3 U of R and #17 Villanova on the road. I'll take that, but it's still tough. Should make for a great season.

[Syntax Error]

I appreciate that the voters think so much of Wofford's chances, but there's no way the Terriers will be a Top 10 team this year.Sandbagger extraordinaire. New posters take note. xcoffeex

[WrenFGun]

Northern Iowa, Massachusetts, Montana and Delaware are all far too high, IMO. Georgia Southern, too, IMO.

Cal Poly and Villanova are criminally underrated.

UNH is right where they should be, IMO. I don't think they're any doubt about the top 3 teams.

[Saluki09]

Just wondering why SIU was so low... I'm guessing it's because Nick Hill graduated, otherwise they should be higher. Still odd as to how UMass is higher than SIU...

[Syntax Error]

Northern Iowa, Massachusetts, Montana and Delaware are all far too high, IMO. Georgia Southern, too, IMO.
Cal Poly and Villanova are criminally underrated.nooooooooooooooo comment ............ yet

[PantherRob82]

Northern Iowa, Massachusetts, Montana and Delaware are all far too high, IMO. Georgia Southern, too, IMO.



We'll see. I'm not sure how many people do their research, but UNI is a Top 5 team on paper heading in.

[PantherRob82]

Just wondering why SIU was so low... I'm guessing it's because Nick Hill graduated, otherwise they should be higher. Still odd as to how UMass is higher than SIU...

I voted them higher. They are still SIU and have a great new coach.

[Syntax Error]

Just wondering why SIU was so low... I'm guessing it's because Nick Hill graduated...You forgot the other 'ill that is no lomger there. St'ill, SIU has reloaded and as John "Lennon" said............. "I want to hold your hand."

[WCU LawCat]

My opinion on the Socon schools.

-App is correct
-Elon too low
-Wofford little too high
-Georgia Southern is way too high (yeah I said it) i would not rank them top 25
-Citadel about right
-I think Furman might be a 25th type team but I feel like they should play there way in this year.
*GSU got its ranking this year on traditional rank. They lost a lot. A WHOLE lot.

[crunifan]

Just wondering why SIU was so low... I'm guessing it's because Nick Hill graduated, otherwise they should be higher. Still odd as to how UMass is higher than SIU...

I wouldn't worry about it. It seems almost an annual tradition now. People underestimate SIU at the beginning of the season and act shocked when they turn out yet another successful team!

[uofmman1122]

Overall pretty solid poll, IMO.

I echo a lot of the sentiment that Cal Poly should be higher; at least top 10, and I even had them in my top 5. I also don't think Montana is way too high, but I guess we'll find out in the first game of the year against Cal Poly how we really stack up. Hard to say at this point.

[CopperCat]

Overall pretty solid poll, IMO.

I echo a lot of the sentiment that Cal Poly should be higher; at least top 10, and I even had them in my top 5. I also don't think Montana is way too high, but I guess we'll find out in the first game of the year against Cal Poly how we really stack up. Hard to say at this point.

How ironic.xrolleyesx xwhistlex

[uofmman1122]

How ironic.xrolleyesx xwhistlexI hope you know I voted MSU into my top 25. xlolx:p

[Retro]

It's way to early for any pre-season poll. I don't care what the so-called other big pre-season magazines are doing and how early they put out their mags.. Early August is good.. If we needed to get this poll into a FCS preview mag, then late july is ok, but frankly this time of year there are too many issues that could affect a lot of teams before august camp arrives with summer school, transfers, academics, etc... Plus you want as much participation as possible with giving people time over the summer to study the teams..

I didn't vote mainly because i forgot, but this poll would get more press if it came out in late july at the earliest... Releasing it on this memorial day weekend only makes it lost on a message board where half the usual readers are gone during the off season... This could be done a lot better if we really want to promote the FCS and get a little more reputable poll instead of want that tends to lean more on what teams did the year before.

[putter]

I did not have Montana in my top 10 and they were below Cal Poly. The Griz lose their biggest weapons from last year, Lex Hilliard and Dan Carpenter. Lost their biggest possession receiver in Bagley and graduated a lot of starters on a defense that kept them in games for the last two years.

Questions will be answered against Poly but there are a lot of big shoes to fill this year.

P.S. --> I also agree that May is a little early for a pre-season poll.

[Tribe4SF]

that's why you're not part of the voting.

Haven't missed a poll vote in three years.xthumbsupx Don't feel special. I see a CAA and a SoCon too high, as well.

[Syntax Error]

It's way to early for any pre-season poll.Uh this is the fifth year for this poll. And every year it is the best. Is it way too early? Sorry it is better than the ones you prefer. They always can copy from this poll............. they always do.
I didn't vote mainly because i forgotNoted.
This could be done a lot better if we really want to promote the FCS and get a little more reputable poll instead of want that tends to lean more on what teams did the year before.Huh? The AGS Poll is the biggest poll done and always the best. Maybe you can explain how it can be "done a lot better" and "a little more reputable" so the ACTUAL VOTERS IN THE POLL can understand. xcoffeex

[Retro]

Uh this is the fifth year for this poll. And every year it is the best. Is it way too early? Sorry it is better than the ones you prefer. They always can copy from this poll............. they always do.Noted.Huh? The AGS Poll is the biggest poll done and always the best. Maybe you can explain how it can be "done a lot better" and "a little more reputable" so the ACTUAL VOTERS IN THE POLL can understand. xcoffeex

Ralph, No matter what i suggest, your going to knock it because you can't admit when your wrong about anything on this board or your system can be improved.. There are no other ones i prefer, so i don't know what the hell you mean there.

There are several things i would suggest to make it better.. xrulesx

1. Have people register for it at least 2-3 months prior to the first actual poll voting and not some hurry up and register so you particpate in the first way to early poll system..

2. Have a new conference review thread each week starting in may that goes over each team in the conference with their schedule, returning starters, lost players, significant newcomers, etc.. This is a good way to at least attempt for more people to become educated about teams outside their own conference because most people here mainly know their own conference and a few of the traditional powers..

3. Have reminder thread posted at least 2 weeks before actual voting and then refresh that every couple of days, so people who check into the board see it and it's easy reminder.

4.. Post a final reminder a few days before voting is closed again to get the maximum amount of eligible voters into the process...

These are all ways to get the word out more agressively and not be in such a rush to get that first poll out so soon after people initially register and avoid missing more knowledgable, but less frequent off season voters..

Again this is mainly for the pre-season polls as of course during the season, voting has to be done within a couple of days max.

[GOKATS]

Ralph, No matter what i suggest, your going to knock it because you can't admit when your wrong about anything on this board or your system can be improved.. There are no other ones i prefer, so i don't know what the hell you mean there.

There are several things i would suggest to make it better.. xrulesx

1. Have people register for it at least 2-3 months prior to the first actual poll voting and not some hurry up and register so you particpate in the first way to early poll system..

2. Have a new conference review thread each week starting in may that goes over each team in the conference with their schedule, returning starters, lost players, significant newcomers, etc.. This is a good way to at least attempt for more people to become educated about teams outside their own conference because most people here mainly know their own conference and a few of the traditional powers..

3. Have reminder thread posted at least 2 weeks before actual voting and then refresh that every couple of days, so people who check into the board see it and it's easy reminder.

4.. Post a final reminder a few days before voting is closed again to get the maximum amount of eligible voters into the process...

These are all ways to get the word out more agressively and not be in such a rush to get that first poll out so soon after people initially register and avoid missing more knowledgable, but less frequent off season voters..

Again this is mainly for the pre-season polls as of course during the season, voting has to be done within a couple of days max.

Ummmmmmmmmm, he's not Ralph, I said that once a ong time ago and got reprimanded.xnodx

[AZGrizFan]

How many #1 votes does ASU lose when it loses to LSU? xlolx xlolx xlolx

[Syntax Error]

your going to knock it because you can't admit when your wrong about anything on this board or your system can be improved.This is the fifth year of the AGS Poll, not me, nothing personal to admit being wrong
There are several things i would suggest to make it better.. xrulesx
1. Have people register for it at least 2-3 months prior to the first actual poll voting and not some hurry up and register so you particpate in the first way to early poll system.. Whatever that means. This should be PMed to AGSadmin or AGSpoll.
2. Have a new conference review thread each week starting in may that goes over each team in the conference with their schedule, returning starters, lost players, significant newcomers, etc.. This is a good way to at least attempt for more people to become educated about teams outside their own conference because most people here mainly know their own conference and a few of the traditional powers.GREAT IDEA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! i have tried to get people to talk about football, you included, we need more general football talk.... not just the HOMER-JOE stuff.

The rest of your stuff I have forwarded to AGSadmin and AGSpoll. Good suggestions as always.

PEOPLE, IF YOU DO NOT KNOW.

RETRO IS A GREAT ADVOCATE FOR FCS!

THIS PERSON BLEEDS FCS AND LOVES THE GAME.

I saw a RETRO shirt in China this month...

Darrell, best to you and FCS is great because it has friends like you. xpeacex

[LarryBoy]

-App, JMU, NDSU are easy top 4 contenders. Richmond...maybe.
-Elon is properly placed and will continue to surprise. Foster-less GSU is way too high until they prove it on the field (which, of course, everyone has to do).
-McNeese way too high. New Hampshire probably shouldn't be in there with their losses.
-Cal Poly too low.
-Furman was a #25 caliber team over the course of last season, so I suppose that's where they deserve to start. But to see Yale immediately in front of them...now that's a slap in the face. No offense.
-I'm feeling a JMU/NDSU National Championship...I'm thinking Armanti Edwards will finally experience some growing pains with some of the supporting cast gone (or is App in a "reload instead of rebuild" gear now? time will tell...).

[WrenFGun]

I'm confused as to why New Hampshire shouldn't be in but teams like Northern Iowa, Southern Illinois and the like, who also lost star QB's, should be? UNH is more than Santos.

As for UMass being so high, they lost a TON, and return little offensively, beyond Coen. I had them at 12th, but sixth seems astronomically high. UD loses their starting QB and starting RB, and lost to UNH's backup last season, and is that high? Yeesh.

[danefan]

Same old same old. Yale ranked, Dayton dropped something like 20 spots. The anti-PFL bias on this board is absolutely out of line. This "poll" is exactly why that stupid earned access thing is such a crock.... AGS poll = ZERO credibility IMHO...!


OK, there is a valid new versus old argument to be had, but I don't think that's the reason you guys dropped so far.

You dropped so far because Hyong (spelling?) graduated. I think you guys won 6 games last year because of him alone. he was far and away the best athlete on your team and the best football player in EVERY GAME you played. At this point, without Hyong you are just another PFL team with a weak OOC and Conference schedule and that shouldn't get you ranked.

Unfortunately, even if you guys play well this year you are still not likely to ever get above #20 because of the weak schedule. There's nothing to compare you to. And one game against Fordham will not carry you beat Fordham and Fordham skates through their other OOC and PL schedule.

[danefan]

I think the poll looks pretty good. I, like an idiot, forgot to vote. I had my poll done and just flat our forgot. Dumbass.

Anyway, I think its as good as it is going to get without seeing any teams play and knowing anything beyond spring practice and returning players.

[danefan]

I think the poll looks pretty good. I, like an idiot, forgot to vote. I had my poll done and just flat our forgot. Dumbass.

Anyway, I think its as good as it is going to get without seeing any teams play and knowing anything beyond spring practice and returning players.xthumbsupx

[GaSouthern]

.

[GaSouthern]

16th for GSU is just right, with a new QB, RB and O-Line we should be lower but with Chris Hatcher as our head coach we should be higher... Result: just right :)

[SideLine Shooter]

How many #1 votes does ASU lose when it loses to LSU? xlolx xlolx xlolx

The one bad thing about being #1 in a Pre-Season Poll is that there is only one way you can move!!

[JoltinJoe]

Great looking poll. Fordham appears to be rated just about right, although I hope that its actual performance will move it up somewhat. Still a very young team looking to build on its surprising performance from the second half of last season.

Hats off to the 82 members who voted. I tried to get it done, but there was just too much going down this weekend. Those of you who got your ballots in deserve to be commended.

[mountaineertider]

I think some people would B&M even if their team made the top twenty-five. Talk about the middle child complex "LOOK AT ME! I'M HERE! I WIN GAMES EVEN THOUGH THEY ARE AGAINST ORANGE COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE AND (INSERT CITY MAYOR) COLLEGE!!"

It's really, really old.

[smallcollegefbfan]

I think some people would B&M even if their team made the top twenty-five. Talk about the middle child complex "LOOK AT ME! I'M HERE! I WIN GAMES EVEN THOUGH THEY ARE AGAINST ORANGE COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE AND (INSERT CITY MAYOR) COLLEGE!!"

It's really, really old.

Add in the Saint Mary's School of the Blind. They are probably even better than Orange County CC... xthumbsupx

[Col Hogan]

I'm confused as to why New Hampshire shouldn't be in but teams like Northern Iowa, Southern Illinois and the like, who also lost star QB's, should be? UNH is more than Santos.

As for UMass being so high, they lost a TON, and return little offensively, beyond Coen. I had them at 12th, but sixth seems astronomically high. UD loses their starting QB and starting RB, and lost to UNH's backup last season, and is that high? Yeesh.

UMass may be too high....but if you really think we return little offensively other than Coen, you haven't looked at the red-shirts from last year...

[Syntax Error]

UMass may be too high....but if you really think we return little offensively other than Coen, you haven't looked at the red-shirts from last year...Have you looked? Tell us about them!

[Col Hogan]

Have you looked? Tell us about them!
xlolx xlolx xlolx No, I haven't looked...I post uninformed jibberish...xrolleyesx

In time...I'm at an airport right now catching up on AGS and CS since I've been on vacation since Friday...I'll have more soon...

[Retro]

This is the fifth year of the AGS Poll, not me, nothing personal to admit being wrongWhatever that means. This should be PMed to AGSadmin or AGSpoll.GREAT IDEA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! i have tried to get people to talk about football, you included, we need more general football talk.... not just the HOMER-JOE stuff.

The rest of your stuff I have forwarded to AGSadmin and AGSpoll. Good suggestions as always.

PEOPLE, IF YOU DO NOT KNOW.

RETRO IS A GREAT ADVOCATE FOR FCS!

THIS PERSON BLEEDS FCS AND LOVES THE GAME.

I saw a RETRO shirt in China this month...

Darrell, best to you and FCS is great because it has friends like you. xpeacex


Thank you, but was that China, Texas or the one out East?xconfusedx

[JmuSkinsfan]

I'm actually surprised someone other than ASU got #1 votes. I can definitely see the argument for the teams that did receive them other than ASU, but still...3 time champs? Even if they lost their entire team they still have Armanti and that's enough for me.

I do think the September 20th game between #2 JMU and #1 ASU in Harrisonburg will be a damned good game. And rest assured that it will be in front of the most raucus and biggest crowd in JMU history.

[GtFllsGriz]

I received an email that I was eligible to vote but I could not find the place that I needed to be to vote...........please......I know.....I'm an idiot. I will get this all learned by the time the next vote is do. I actually consider it an honor to vote in this process.

It would all have been a very uneducated guess on my part since I only know what I have read from AGS as to where everyone else stands this year regarding their returning teams.

I can only speak about the Griz and Cal Poly and in my opinion they should be about reversed. Hope I am wrong!

[AppStFan76]

I'm actually surprised someone other than ASU got #1 votes. I can definitely see the argument for the teams that did receive them other than ASU, but still...3 time champs? Even if they lost their entire team they still have Armanti and that's enough for me.

I do think the September 20th game between #2 JMU and #1 ASU in Harrisonburg will be a damned good game. And rest assured that it will be in front of the most raucus and biggest crowd in JMU history.

I hope that it still is #1 vs. #2 cme Sept 20th, with App being in the #1 spotxsmiley_wix .

Anything can happen, as far as the polls go in 3 weeks.

IMO it will still be the best FCS game of the year, reguardless of what the polls say.

Good luck to JMU, but not too muchxthumbsupx

[Black Saturday]

Haven't missed a poll vote in three years.xthumbsupx Don't feel special. I see a CAA and a SoCon too high, as well.

The only one I am for certain in preseason that is too low in the poll is ELON. They will be the second in the SoCon in '08. Glad they play in Boone this year.

[89Hen]

The only one I am for certain in preseason that is too low in the poll is ELON. They will be the second in the SoCon in '08. Glad they play in Boone this year.
I do one bet each year and I'd be willing to bet that Elon in not in the top 2 in the SoCon this year. Winner gets a cap from the loser. You in?

[Black Saturday]

The only one I am for certain in preseason that is too low in the poll is ELON. They will be the second in the SoCon in '08. Glad they play in Boone this year.

At least APP has the stones to schedule games like this.

[Black Saturday]

I do one bet each year and I'd be willing to bet that Elon in not in the top 2 in the SoCon this year. Winner gets a cap from the loser. You in?

Who's your pick?

[FCS Go!]

Nevermind...

[89Hen]

Who's your pick?
Not Elon. Seems like they will be good on offense again, but will not have the D to make it over the hump. I think they go 2-3 against ASU, GSU, FU, WC and El Cid... just not sure which ones.

[JmuSkinsfan]

If ASU loses to LSU and JMU loses to Duke, I don't think much will change...

I don't know the rest of ASU's early schedule but I can only guess you'll be favorites in every game you play this year. I think the only challenge for JMU before Sept. 20 is #6 Umass at home..

[Syntax Error]

Thank you, but was that China, Texas or the one out East?xconfusedxThe one with the most people, oldest culture, biggest economy....... so, not Texas!

http://www.retro-sports.com/images/logo.gif (http://www.retro-sports.com/contact/index.cfm)

[ElonPride]

Not Elon. Seems like they will be good on offense again, but will not have the D to make it over the hump. I think they go 2-3 against ASU, GSU, FU, WC and El Cid... just not sure which ones.

The D will be MUCH improved. I think we return 9 starters on defense and FINALLY the depth chart will be there!

[Umass74]

UMass plays seven teams mentioned in the poll.

#2 JMU
#3 Richmond
#11 Delaware
#20 New Hampshire


In the "other receiving votes"

Holy Cross
Albany
Hofstra


Plus Texas Tech in Lubbock!xrotatehx

[ericsaid]

I think ASU, JMU, NDSU, and possibly EWU will be the seeded teams in this years play offs.

Elon will finish number 2 in the SoCon

[SideLine Shooter]

If ASU loses to LSU and JMU loses to Duke, I don't think much will change...

I don't know the rest of ASU's early schedule but I can only guess you'll be favorites in every game you play this year. I think the only challenge for JMU before Sept. 20 is #6 Umass at home..

Unless JMU lost there whole team from a year ago, JMU should beat Duke IF they can limit their mental errors.xthumbsupx xthumbsupx

[OL FU]

I do one bet each year and I'd be willing to bet that Elon in not in the top 2 in the SoCon this year. Winner gets a cap from the loser. You in?

Where's my cap from the Gohens pick 'em contestxlolx

[Fordham]

Great looking poll. Fordham appears to be rated just about right, although I hope that its actual performance will move it up somewhat. Still a very young team looking to build on its surprising performance from the second half of last season.

Hats off to the 82 members who voted. I tried to get it done, but there was just too much going down this weekend. Those of you who got your ballots in deserve to be commended.

I agree that Fordham is placed pretty well. A good argument could be made based upon what's returning (most everyone) and how many of our starters were frosh & soph's last year that we could have been higher but who really cares at this point? If it could/should be higher it wouldn't be by THAT much. Some recognition like this is nice and the rest of it just gets to be earned either way on the field in a few months.

My only issue is that I'm still having a glitch that I've been going back and forth with admin about and trying to get resolved, that kept me from voting this weekend. Can anyone clarify if I'm now out for the season even once the glitch is corrected or if I can start in week 1 as a contributor?

[JmuSkinsfan]

Unless JMU lost there whole team from a year ago, JMU should beat Duke IF they can limit their mental errors.xthumbsupx xthumbsupx

Yeah. We SHOULD. But Mickey also doesn't like to try too hard against FBS opponents. Maybe the two early turnovers and the quick scores by UNC last year made him throw in the towel sooner than he planned...so if we do eliminate any early turnovers and mistakes...we should pull out a win. After all...it IS Duke

[89Hen]

Where's my cap from the Gohens pick 'em contestxlolx
That was my second wager of the year. :p PM me.

[GrizzlyEdd]

I did not have Montana in my top 10 and they were below Cal Poly. The Griz lose their biggest weapons from last year, Lex Hilliard and Dan Carpenter. Lost their biggest possession receiver in Bagley and graduated a lot of starters on a defense that kept them in games for the last two years.

Questions will be answered against Poly but there are a lot of big shoes to fill this year.

P.S. --> I also agree that May is a little early for a pre-season poll.

Pretty much says it for me also. I voted the Griz at #15 with CalPoly and Eastern Washington ahead of the Griz. This year is a wait and see for the Griz in my mind. A lot will be said on 9/6 in CA against the "Stangs."xpeacex

[Syntax Error]

My only issue is that I'm still having a glitch that I've been going back and forth with admin about and trying to get resolved, that kept me from voting this weekend. Can anyone clarify if I'm now out for the season even once the glitch is corrected or if I can start in week 1 as a contributor?You have to register by August 15 to vote in the season polls.

[Fordham]

You have to register by August 15 to vote in the season polls. gracias

[drpnut]

I believe Woffy, Elon and Ga South are ranked a little high.

I believe Woffy will give South Carolina all they can handle and possibly pull the upset, and by doing so might leave a lot on the field and suck in Conference. I see us being 7-4 or 8-3. If the SoCon beats up on itself and the CAA does the same I see us slipping in the playoffs at 7-4 with a 5-3 conference record. Of course this could also be just a lot of "wishing."

I'm looking forward to the season and think it will be great! Can't wait. What do we have about 90 days? FCS world is the best!

Best wishes to a fun year for all of my fellow AGS posters!

Peace out

[terrierbob]

I believe Woffy, Elon and Ga South are ranked a little high.

I believe Woffy will give South Carolina all they can handle and possibly pull the upset, and by doing so might leave a lot on the field and suck in Conference. I see us being 7-4 or 8-3. If the SoCon beats up on itself and the CAA does the same I see us slipping in the playoffs at 7-4 with a 5-3 conference record. Of course this could also be just a lot of "wishing."

I'm looking forward to the season and think it will be great! Can't wait. What do we have about 90 days? FCS world is the best!

Best wishes to a fun year for all of my fellow AGS posters!

Peace out

Unfortunately, I agree Wofford will be 7-4/8-3 * (with luck). Halloween should be fun; hope it's not too scary for the doglets. Our offense should be solid behind 3 300lb. plows, but, as usual, our D worries me.

*I'm sure we'll hear the "best 7-4 team in the country" crap from our purple brethren :)

[leatherneck177]

Western?

[PantherRob82]

Western?

Do you guys have a QB yet?;)

[MaxASU'81]

Retro love the ideas about featuring a conference weekly, "Have a new conference review thread each week"... but frankly since ASU has owned the CAA they should be folded into the SoCon so they could really belong to a super conference!

[MaxASU'81]

Yourz! only!

[GannonFan]

Retro love the ideas about featuring a conference weekly, "Have a new conference review thread each week"... but frankly since ASU has owned the CAA they should be folded into the SoCon so they could really belong to a super conference!

You sure you want the CAA in your conference? I mean, that means that Appy St might actually have to play a road game against a CAA team every now and then. :p :p :p :p

[AppAlum2003]

You sure you want the CAA in your conference? I mean, that means that Appy St might actually have to play a road game against a CAA team every now and then. :p :p :p :p

You mean like the one they're playing in Harrisonburg this season? Or were you referring to another CAA?

[UDBlueLotFan]

Retro love the ideas about featuring a conference weekly, "Have a new conference review thread each week"... but frankly since ASU has owned the CAA they should be folded into the SoCon so they could really belong to a super conference!

That must be good white lightening xrolleyesx ...either that or crack has finally reached the mean streets of Greater-Boonexnodx

[Mountaineer]

You sure you want the CAA in your conference? I mean, that means that Appy St might actually have to play a road game against a CAA team every now and then. :p :p :p :p

That's not really a problem. ASU is 20-8 against the CAA. :p 2-0 at neutral sites and 7-3 on the road. xthumbsupx

Maine
Away 0-0 Home 0-1

New Hampshire
Away 1-0 Home 0-0

Massachusetts
Neutral 1-0

Delaware
Neutral 1-0

James Madison
Away 5-1 Home 7-2

Richmond
Away 1-1 Home 3-1

William & Mary
Away 0-1 Home 1-1

----------

Neutral 2-0
Home 11-5
Away 7-3

I do think we'll fall to 7-4 though at JMU. xpeacex

[URMite]

That's not really a problem. ASU is 20-8 against the CAA. :p 2-0 at neutral sites and 7-3 on the road. xthumbsupx

Maine
Away 0-0 Home 0-1

New Hampshire
Away 1-0 Home 0-0

Massachusetts
Neutral 1-0

Delaware
Neutral 1-0

James Madison
Away 5-1 Home 7-2

Richmond
Away 1-1 Home 3-1

William & Mary
Away 0-1 Home 1-1

----------

Neutral 2-0
Home 11-5
Away 7-3

I do think we'll fall to 7-4 though at JMU. xpeacex

Wait, how far back do some of those games go? I only remember 2 games against Richmond, both at ASU, both in the playoffs, 20 years apart.

Maybe you should only count your FCS/I-AA record?xsmiley_wix

[URMite]

The only one I am for certain in preseason that is too low in the poll is ELON. They will be the second in the SoCon in '08. Glad they play in Boone this year.

I just hope they drop in the polls (8/30) before they rise again (phoenix).

I would not look forward to an 0-2 start, an unfortunate possibility.

[URMite]

I believe Woffy, Elon and Ga South are ranked a little high.

I believe Woffy will give South Carolina all they can handle and possibly pull the upset, and by doing so might leave a lot on the field and suck in Conference. I see us being 7-4 or 8-3. If the SoCon beats up on itself and the CAA does the same I see us slipping in the playoffs at 7-4 with a 5-3 conference record. Of course this could also be just a lot of "wishing."

I'm looking forward to the season and think it will be great! Can't wait. What do we have about 90 days? FCS world is the best!

Best wishes to a fun year for all of my fellow AGS posters!

Peace out

I think you need to be 8-3. It will be hard to get in the playoffs at 7-4 with all the 12 game schedules. That's why we added Georgetown to our schedule. After their 1-10 season last year, playing them increases our chance of going 8-4. I'm thinking a 12 game schedule will look better than an 11 game one with the same number of losses.

[Syntax Error]

I'm thinking a 12 game schedule will look better than an 11 game one with the same number of losses.I'm thinking you are right.

[already123]

good poll...I would think EWU would be a bit higher...

[FUPaladin63]

Wofford is ranked too high and Furman is ranked too low. We will find out how good Furman and Delaware are this season after they play each other in Paladin Stadium.

[AZGrizFan]

good poll...I would think EWU would be a bit higher...

Apparently taking an overrated Montana team to the wire last year and bashing in the skull of an overrated #2 seed in McNeese State doesn't hold much water with the voters. xeyebrowx ;)

[Gil Dobie]

Apparently taking an overrated Montana team to the wire last year and bashing in the skull of an overrated #2 seed in McNeese State doesn't hold much water with the voters. xeyebrowx ;)

Coaching change was my issue with Eastern Washington. They could be a player this year, just depends on the transition.

[Black and Gold Express]

That's not really a problem. ASU is 20-8 against the CAA. :p 2-0 at neutral sites and 7-3 on the road. xthumbsupx

Maine
Away 0-0 Home 0-1

New Hampshire
Away 1-0 Home 0-0

Massachusetts
Neutral 1-0

Delaware
Neutral 1-0

James Madison
Away 5-1 Home 7-2

Richmond
Away 1-1 Home 3-1

William & Mary
Away 0-1 Home 1-1

----------

Neutral 2-0
Home 11-5
Away 7-3

I do think we'll fall to 7-4 though at JMU. xpeacex

I know they are technically neutral site games, but you can't seriously call teh UMass and Delaware games that. They were, for all intents, home games for ASU.

And I don't see ASU losing at JMU this year. In fact I'll go ahead and say that I think ASU could win that one comfortably. ASU's run defense should be markedly better than last year, and it was that group alone that kept JMU in the game. JMU never stopped our offense when it was on the field, they just took advantage of our young front line and ate the clock. It's almost a flip flop from last year, where the strength then was the secondary (followed by the LB) and the D-line was the weak spot. This year it's reversed. The D-line showed against UD that they grew up, and the LB corps will be filthy. JMU is going to have to pass more to move the ball against ASU as the weak spots (at least early on) will be the back four while they get experience.

On offense though, there is little reason to think the points won't be put on the board at a similar pace to last year. Edwards returns, and Moore showed in the playoffs that he will be a fine spread-option running back. I actually think the wideouts can be better than last year with Hillary, Courman, Johnson, and Cline already known quantites, Blake Elder looks like a solid possession guy. The x-factor is Brian Quick. If he can take all he learned in his redshirt year (they redshirted him after the UM game) and turn that raw talent into a refined player, he might be one of the best receivers in the SoCon. He's tall and fast. He can jump (he blocked the first kick at UM from the back line). The question is his inexperience, which showed in his drop of a wide open TD at UM. He's the player I am most excited to see blossom. If so, ASU has possibly the best receiving corps in the nation.

On the line, Irvin proved at Michigan he is a quality starter at center, and Acitelli is a stud tackle. The only real question mark at the moment is replacing Brown at OG, but this coaching staff churns out top-notch O-linemen yearly so I have faith that waiting in the wings are some options there.

If ASU can be at 2-1 after the start, I think (hope) that will be a good sign that they'll be a force all season long and have another December game in Chattanooga.

[Black Saturday]

I know they are technically neutral site games, but you can't seriously call teh UMass and Delaware games that. They were, for all intents, home games for ASU.

And I don't see ASU losing at JMU this year. In fact I'll go ahead and say that I think ASU could win that one comfortably. ASU's run defense should be markedly better than last year, and it was that group alone that kept JMU in the game. JMU never stopped our offense when it was on the field, they just took advantage of our young front line and ate the clock. It's almost a flip flop from last year, where the strength then was the secondary (followed by the LB) and the D-line was the weak spot. This year it's reversed. The D-line showed against UD that they grew up, and the LB corps will be filthy. JMU is going to have to pass more to move the ball against ASU as the weak spots (at least early on) will be the back four while they get experience.

On offense though, there is little reason to think the points won't be put on the board at a similar pace to last year. Edwards returns, and Moore showed in the playoffs that he will be a fine spread-option running back. I actually think the wideouts can be better than last year with Hillary, Courman, Johnson, and Cline already known quantites, Blake Elder looks like a solid possession guy. The x-factor is Brian Quick. If he can take all he learned in his redshirt year (they redshirted him after the UM game) and turn that raw talent into a refined player, he might be one of the best receivers in the SoCon. He's tall and fast. He can jump (he blocked the first kick at UM from the back line). The question is his inexperience, which showed in his drop of a wide open TD at UM. He's the player I am most excited to see blossom. If so, ASU has possibly the best receiving corps in the nation.

On the line, Irvin proved at Michigan he is a quality starter at center, and Acitelli is a stud tackle. The only real question mark at the moment is replacing Brown at OG, but this coaching staff churns out top-notch O-linemen yearly so I have faith that waiting in the wings are some options there.

If ASU can be at 2-1 after the start, I think (hope) that will be a good sign that they'll be a force all season long and have another December game in Chattanooga.


With addition of Bennett and Lewis to the mix, APP will have the deepest and one of the best DLs in I-AA, which could help make '08 the better than '06, in my opinion, when opponents only could manage a couple of scores when the game was in question.

[turbodean]

Football Championship Subdivision Week at In the Bleachers starts with a review of the AGS Pre-Season Poll.

http://inthebleachers.net/college-football-news/fcs-week-an-early-look-at-the-top-25/

This is a nice article about the pre-season poll, with upcoming features this week including the author's top 10 probable FCS over FBS upsets.

[dlive54]

I know they are technically neutral site games, but you can't seriously call teh UMass and Delaware games that. They were, for all intents, home games for ASU.

And I don't see ASU losing at JMU this year. In fact I'll go ahead and say that I think ASU could win that one comfortably. ASU's run defense should be markedly better than last year, and it was that group alone that kept JMU in the game. JMU never stopped our offense when it was on the field, they just took advantage of our young front line and ate the clock. It's almost a flip flop from last year, where the strength then was the secondary (followed by the LB) and the D-line was the weak spot. This year it's reversed. The D-line showed against UD that they grew up, and the LB corps will be filthy. JMU is going to have to pass more to move the ball against ASU as the weak spots (at least early on) will be the back four while they get experience.

On offense though, there is little reason to think the points won't be put on the board at a similar pace to last year. Edwards returns, and Moore showed in the playoffs that he will be a fine spread-option running back. I actually think the wideouts can be better than last year with Hillary, Courman, Johnson, and Cline already known quantites, Blake Elder looks like a solid possession guy. The x-factor is Brian Quick. If he can take all he learned in his redshirt year (they redshirted him after the UM game) and turn that raw talent into a refined player, he might be one of the best receivers in the SoCon. He's tall and fast. He can jump (he blocked the first kick at UM from the back line). The question is his inexperience, which showed in his drop of a wide open TD at UM. He's the player I am most excited to see blossom. If so, ASU has possibly the best receiving corps in the nation.

On the line, Irvin proved at Michigan he is a quality starter at center, and Acitelli is a stud tackle. The only real question mark at the moment is replacing Brown at OG, but this coaching staff churns out top-notch O-linemen yearly so I have faith that waiting in the wings are some options there.

If ASU can be at 2-1 after the start, I think (hope) that will be a good sign that they'll be a force all season long and have another December game in Chattanooga.

Very excited that JMU is ranked number two in preseason polls but as we all know we must prove that ranking is for real on the field.

I think I am looking forward to our game with ASU more than any game that we have ever had and I think it could be the greatest game ever played in Bridgeforth stadium even surpassing the Delaware game in 2004 and the William and Mary game later that season even though we lost.

As for your comment on ASU's DL no doubt you all will be much improved but I respectfully disagree and will at the same time be very surprised if you all can hold our running game down like you think you can. We were going to return all five OL this year until one of them had family issues and had to leave the team but with like you all having to replace Brown we can replace him as well with someone adequate. With that said you all never faced Eugene Holloman either, he is that change of pace back that is our home run hitter that is definitely a game changer. Put that together with all our skill position players being one year older and the fact that we have at least six capable guys to carry the ball who can serve different purposes. Again I am not saying you are wrong but I will be very surprised if anyone including Duke holds us under 300 yards on the ground this year. you have to remember what our philosophy is run, run, run, and run some more and if that does not work we run again. Oh yeah did I mention Rodney Landers too, he runs pretty well also. Besides if you all do hold us down on the ground, I agree you win comfortably.

Long time reader of this board and I will be cheering for ASU against LSU when you all head to Baton Rouge. Also hope all ASU fans have a safe trip up to Harrisonburg for those who are coming up. Trust me we are a lot easier to find than you all were the last two times we came down to visit you all.

Dlive

[APPALACHIANstate]

ROCK ON APPALACHIAN!

[SBUFAN33]

congrats to all the teams that made the pre-season poll, but i think after week 3 everything below 5 will look different.

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c286/doubleR33/areuready.jpg

[McNeese75]

congrats to all the teams that made the pre-season poll, but i think after week 3 everything below 5 will look different.

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c286/doubleR33/areuready.jpg

xconfusedx I was at a loss trying to guess what your school is but thanks to google, I got it xthumbsupx

[R.A.]

Any Given Saturday Poll Top 25

PRE-SEASON 5/26/2008
(First place votes in parenthesis)
1. Appalachian St. (76)
2. James Madison (2)
3. Richmond (1)
4. North Dakota St. (2)
5. Northern Iowa
6. Massachusetts
7. Montana
8. McNeese St.
9. Eastern Washington
10. Wofford
11. Delaware
12. Southern Illinois
13. Cal Poly (1)
14. Youngstown St.
15. Elon
16. Georgia Southern
17. Villanova
18. South Dakota St.
19. Eastern Illinois
20. New Hampshire
21. The Citadel
22. Eastern Kentucky
23. Fordham
24. Yale
25. Furman
Others receiving votes (minimum of 5 votes): Harvard (33), Sam Houston St. (31), Delaware St. (29), Northern Arizona (27), Central Arkansas (24), Montana St. (24), Jackson St. (23), South Carolina St. (22), Jacksonville St. (18), Grambling St. (16), Liberty (16), Holy Cross (14), Western Illinois (13), Albany (12), Hofstra (12), Dayton (10), Hampton (10), Nicholls St. (7), Coastal Carolina (5), Colgate (5), Norfolk St. (5)

TEAM MOST ON THE RISE: Cal Poly
TEAM FALLING THE MOST: Delaware

Well, that's what I get for not participating, but this wasn't a good year for me to finally join in. However, if asked again next summer, I will be very willing to vote.

As for the poll, I honestly don't have a problem with it. I'm not advocating any MEAC team be in the pre-season poll, after Hampton 41-38 loss to New Hampshire in 2006, many were expecting the MEAC Champion to have a similarily competitive showing in 2007, but Delaware State wasn't up for the task with their 47-7 loss to the Blue Hens.

However, I will say that I expected for the SWAC's Grambling to be ranked. Isn't QB Brandon Landers returning? And weren't the Tigers in the SWAC Championship game under 1st year Head Coach Rod Broadway? Grambling also played FBS Pittsburgh and UL- Monroe very competitively last season.

Also note that a few MEAC schedules are indeed set up for early season ascension in the AGS poll, if wins are acheived. I'll take Hampton's 2008 schedule.
8/31/2008 Jackson State (MEAC-SWAC Challenge)
9/6/2008 Southern Illinois Carbondale, Ill.
9/13/2008 * Howard Hampton, Va.
9/20/2008 * North Carolina A&T Hampton, Va.
10/4/2008 * Delaware State Dover, Del.

In the first five weeks they play three 2007 conference champions... Jackson State (SWAC Champion), Southern Illinois (Gateway Co-Champion), and Delaware State (MEAC Champion). On top of that, they play their top rival Howard in "The Battle of the Real HU." Hampton startin gthe season 2-0 or 4-1 should have them ranked.

[813Jag]

Well, that's what I get for not participating, but this wasn't a good year for me to finally join in. However, if asked again next summer, I will be very willing to vote.

As for the poll, I honestly don't have a problem with it. I'm not advocating any MEAC team be in the pre-season poll, after Hampton 41-38 loss to New Hampshire in 2006, many were expecting the MEAC Champion to have a similarily competitive showing in 2007, but Delaware State wasn't up for the task with their 47-7 loss to the Blue Hens.

However, I will say that I expected for the SWAC's Grambling to be ranked. Isn't QB Brandon Landers returning? And weren't the Tigers in the SWAC Championship game under 1st year Head Coach Rod Broadway? Grambling also played FBS Pittsburgh and UL- Monroe very competitively last season.

Also note that a few MEAC schedules are indeed set up for early season ascension in the AGS poll, if wins are acheived. I'll take Hampton's 2008 schedule.
8/31/2008 Jackson State (MEAC-SWAC Challenge)
9/6/2008 Southern Illinois Carbondale, Ill.
9/13/2008 * Howard Hampton, Va.
9/20/2008 * North Carolina A&T Hampton, Va.
10/4/2008 * Delaware State Dover, Del.

In the first five weeks they play three 2007 conference champions... Jackson State (SWAC Champion), Southern Illinois (Gateway Co-Champion), and Delaware State (MEAC Champion). On top of that, they play their top rival Howard in "The Battle of the Real HU." Hampton startin gthe season 2-0 or 4-1 should have them ranked.
Grambling closed their season with three consecutive losses. So I'm sure that played a part in some thought processes. Landers is returning but Grambling's success will hinge on the running game and game management by the QB.

[Gil Dobie]

Here is how we voted in 2008


Any Given Saturday Poll Top 25

PRE-SEASON 5/26/2008
(First place votes in parenthesis)
1. Appalachian St. (76)
2. James Madison (2)
3. Richmond (1)
4. North Dakota St. (2)
5. Northern Iowa
6. Massachusetts
7. Montana
8. McNeese St.
9. Eastern Washington
10. Wofford
11. Delaware
12. Southern Illinois
13. Cal Poly (1)
14. Youngstown St.
15. Elon
16. Georgia Southern
17. Villanova
18. South Dakota St.
19. Eastern Illinois
20. New Hampshire
21. The Citadel
22. Eastern Kentucky
23. Fordham
24. Yale
25. Furman
Others receiving votes (minimum of 5 votes): Harvard (33), Sam Houston St. (31), Delaware St. (29), Northern Arizona (27), Central Arkansas (24), Montana St. (24), Jackson St. (23), South Carolina St. (22), Jacksonville St. (18), Grambling St. (16), Liberty (16), Holy Cross (14), Western Illinois (13), Albany (12), Hofstra (12), Dayton (10), Hampton (10), Nicholls St. (7), Coastal Carolina (5), Colgate (5), Norfolk St. (5)

TEAM MOST ON THE RISE: Cal Poly
TEAM FALLING THE MOST: Delaware

[slycat]

and heres how the final poll looked


Any Given Saturday Poll Top 25

(First place votes in parenthesis), Points
1. Richmond (56) 1400
2. Montana 1328
3. Northern Iowa 1266
4. James Madison 1255
5. Appalachian St. 1155
6. Villanova 1115
7. Weber St. 1036
8. New Hampshire 1023
9. Cal Poly 915 (tie)
9. Wofford 915 (tie)
11. Southern Illinois 818
12. South Carolina St. 692
13. Central Arkansas 691
14. Maine 514
15. Harvard 479
16. William & Mary 468
17. Eastern Kentucky 441
18. Colgate 402
19. Liberty 399
20. Elon 375
21. Texas St. 319
22. McNeese St. 226
23. Jacksonville St. 192
24. South Dakota St. 183
25. Furman 89
Others receiving votes (minimum of 5 votes): Tennessee-Martin (28), Grambling St. (22), Massachusetts (21), Albany (17), Prairie View A&M (11), Western Illinois (9), Holy Cross (7), Brown (5), Florida A&M (5)

[slycat]

got six in the top 10, but the other 4 EWU, UMass, NDSU, and McNeese were all big busts.

[Syntax Error]

and heres how the final poll lookedDang, we're good! xthumbsupx

[Gil Dobie]

Weber St made a big jump.

[89Hen]

got six in the top 10, but the other 4 EWU, UMass, NDSU, and McNeese were all big busts.
More impressive to me is...

PRE-SEASON 5/26/2008
1. Appalachian St. (76)
2. James Madison (2)
3. Richmond (1)
5. Northern Iowa
7. Montana

All five of the final 5 were pre-season top 7. We are good, especially given the fact that we were the FIRST poll of the season out so nobody can say we just went with the popular vote. xbowx to us. :p

[terrierbob]

So when's the next AGS pre-season poll?

[mcveyrl]

So when's the next AGS pre-season poll?

2009. :D

[terrierbob]

Narrows it down. Thanks :)

[Lehigh Football Nation]

Fordham. That's all I have to say.

Their inclusion in the Top 25 puts the whole thing into question, IMO.

[mcveyrl]

Narrows it down. Thanks :)

But correct.

I think it happens sometime this month.

[Syntax Error]

It's May Day so eligibility is closed. Last year we voted in the third week of May.