Tim Tebow signed a minor league contract with the?New York Mets?on Thursday and?will begin his professional baseball career in the?fall instructional league on Sept. 19 in Port St. Lucie, Florida.Mets general manager Sandy Alderson insisted that signing Tebow, a former NFL quarterback, is not a publicity stunt.While I and the organization, I think, are mindful of the novel nature of this situation, this decision was strictly driven by baseball, Alderson said on a conference call with Tebow and agent Brodie Van Wagenen on Thursday to announce the agreement that includes a $100,000 signing bonus. This was not something that was driven by marketing considerations or anything of the sort. We are extremely intrigued with the potential that Tim has.He has demonstrated over his athletic career that he is a tremendous athlete, has got character, a competitive spirit. Aside from the age (29), this is a classic player-development opportunity for us. As an organization, were going to provide that development opportunity for Tim.The decision nonetheless was made at the highest levels of the organization -- by Alderson and chief operating officer Jeff Wilpon -- and did not intimately involve the teams baseball-operations personnel. The Mets were one of 28 teams to attend Tebows showcase last week in Los Angeles.Tebow acknowledged his upcoming baseball journey is not one that will be necessarily easy.I know this is a tough game, Tebow said. But Im looking forward to putting in the work and I felt like this was the best fit.Tebow, who hasnt played organized baseball since his junior year at Nease High School in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, in 2005, has been working out with former big league catcher Chad Moeller in Scottsdale, Arizona, since Memorial Day. Tebow spent almost two hours last week at the Southern Californias Dedeaux Field running a 60-yard dash, shagging fly balls, throwing from the outfield and taking swings against former major league pitchers David Aardsma and Chad Smith in his audition for clubs.Tebow won the Heisman Trophy for the Florida Gators in 2007 and helped the team take two national championships.?He played professionally for the Denver Broncos and New York Jets from 2010 to 2012. He spent training camps with the New England Patriots and Philadelphia Eagles in 2013 and 2015, respectively, but never played in the regular season for those teams.Since 2013, Tebow has been a college football analyst for ESPN.?Alderson said Tebow will be excused a couple of days each week from fall instructional league to fulfill that commitment.Tim is committed to his role at SEC Network and ESPN this fall, Stephanie Druley, ESPN senior vice president, event and studio production, said in a statement. We have always been supportive of Tims athletic pursuits. His new schedule will allow him to continue as a college football analyst on SEC Nation this fall.Former major league pitchers Dallas Braden, who is now an ESPN analyst, and C.J. Nitkowski questioned how serious Tebow was about playing baseball based on the arrangement to give him excused days off each week.After Tebow participates in the fall instructional league, which primarily is for teenage prospects, Alderson is not ruling out sending Tebow to the Arizona Fall League or a winter league. First, the Mets want to better gauge Tebows readiness and determine whether it would be more beneficial to receive individual instruction during the offseason.Even if Tebow never reaches the majors, Alderson insisted this is a win for the Mets because of the example Tebows work ethic and character will set for the minor leaguers.Still, Alderson insisted Tebow has on-field potential.Any player evaluation starts with tools, Alderson said. From that standpoint, without grading everything out, suffice it to say Tim has been a great athlete. He has demonstrated more than rudimentary baseball skills. We think, with his commitment to success, that this is an opportunity that is worthwhile.In terms of power, in terms of arm, in terms of foot speed, all of those things, we think he can be a baseball player. I think that is underscored by his competitiveness and his determination to succeed and to improve. From our standpoint, this is another opportunity for us to develop a player and see where it goes. We understand most players dont make it to the major leagues.Alderson said theres no guarantee Tebow will be invited to major league camp during spring training. He also added Tebows signing is a standalone proposition and unrelated to Van Wagenen representing other Mets clients, including Yoenis Cespedes -- who has an opt-out this winter -- as well as Noah Syndergaard and Jacob deGrom.Brodie represents a number of players on our team, Alderson said. But in the course of our conversations regarding Tim, none of those players were mentioned, none were in mind. I think Brodie is professional enough to keep all of those things separate.The Mets will not be able to capitalize on Tebows fame from a marketing standpoint, either. For that to happen, Tebow must be added to the teams 40-man roster and sign the group licensing agreement. MLB.com and Mets.com, in fact, are rejecting any fan who tries to make a custom Tebow jersey through the website.Tebow said he came close to pursuing baseball a year ago, but the Eagles?interest tabled it.Its been something that Ive been thinking about for a little while and came close to pulling the trigger on last year, Tebow said. Then, actually, when I was in the middle of going through a day of training for baseball, [then-Eagles coach] Chip Kelly called and then I had to figure that out. ... We all know how that turned out.Former Broncos teammate Eric Decker, now with the New York Jets, said he expected Tebow to be signed.When you have 30 scouts coming to your workout, someone is going to sign you, Decker said. Well see how he does next spring in whatever camp it is. Best of luck to him.I believe Tim has a big heart and hes a good person. Hes such a competitor that this is an outlet for him. But from the outside, I can see how it looks as a publicity stunt. I mean, hes got a good gig right now with the SEC Network. Im sure he could do a daily talk show if he wanted. Hes well-liked. I think this is him being competitive, wanting to get that fire again.Asked about his preferred position, Tebow said hell take his cue from the organization. But he noted hes a lefty thrower, so theres a limit.My best position is whatever they feel like it is, he said. I feel comfortable in the outfield. I feel comfortable at first base.What would Tebow deem success during his baseball pursuit? Is it major leagues or bust?I would consider success giving everything I have, he said.Decker said thats the kind of teammate that Tebow has been in the past and what he expects him to be in the future.Guys will have to respect what hes done during his tenure in the NFL and who he is and the college football player he was. Theres going to be mixed emotions (among his new teammates), Im sure, Decker said. Hes going to be a good teammate. I think hes going to be very respectful.Hes not going to come in with a chip on his shoulder or (say), Im Tim Tebow, heres the red carpet. Hes not that type of guy in my experience. Guys will respect his work ethic and the person.ESPNs Darren Rovell and Rich Cimini contributed to this report. Nike Zoom Generation Pas Cher . After Martin Skrtel put the Reds in front from close range at Stamford Bridge after only four minutes, Hazard hit back in the 17th with a superb strike. Etoo gave Jose Mourinhos team a decisive lead from Oscars back pass in the 34th. Nike Zoom Pegasus 32 Noir . -- Mike Smith never saw his first NHL goal go in. http://www.airzoompascher.com/nike-zoom-pegasus-35.html . Los Angeles star goalie survived those perilous gymnastics with no problem, and he eventually backstopped the Kings to a skid-snapping win. Quick stopped 27 shots in his return from a 24-game injury absence, Jeff Carter scored the tiebreaking goal with 7:55 to play, and the Kings snapped their five-game losing streak with a 3-1 victory over the Vancouver Canucks on Saturday night. Nike Zoom Winflo 2 Femme . But Bourque, who has missed three games with a lower-body injury, wont be in the lineup when the Habs travel to Buffalo to take on the Sabres on Wednesday. Nike Zoom Vapor 9.5 Pas Cher . - Chris Tierney snapped a tie with a power-play goal late in the third period as the London Knights rallied from a 3-0 deficit to beat the Erie Otters 5-3 in Ontario Hockey League action on Wednesday. (STATS) -- Rebuilding is never easy on a football program, especially one which has a proud history of success.Its a humbling experience, requires patience and tests the resolve of every coach and player dreaming of better days.Florida A&M finds itself among the struggling programs in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference, and its not what the Rattlers are used to.Four straight losing seasons are almost unfathomable. But a 10-loss season -- they went 1-10 last year -- well, that had never happened to a FAMU program which has captured 12 black college national titles, won the first FCS (then Division I-AA) national championship game in 1978 and earned a share of the MEAC title as recently as 2010.So the Rattlers are working to get their program in order again.Every position is open to whoever wants to step in as a starter, is how second-year coach Alex Wood opened preseason camp. The Rattlers returned 13 starters, but only four on defense.I am pleased with the improvement Ive seen, Wood said, but we still have a long way to go until opening day.Wood believes there could be a quick fix. He said he wants the Rattlers to send the senior class out with a winning season.That may be asking a lot considering FAMU hasnt beaten a team with a winning record since its last winning season in 2011.Complicating matters is that FAMU is trying to come out of NCAA-imposed academic sanctions. Howard, Savannah State and Morgan State also are under the APR penalties, and all four programs are ineligible for the MEAC title and banned from postseason play.The 11-team MEAC is led by the three 2015 champions -- North Carolina A&T, North Carolina Central and Bethune-Cookman -- and perennial power South Carolina State.Florida A&M used to be one of the MEACs elite programs. The Rattlers are anxious to get back there, but its a step-by-step process.Following is a team-by-team breakdown of the 2016 MEAC race and STATS predicted order of finish:1. North Carolina A&T2. Bethune-Cookman3. North Carolina Central4. South Carolina State5. Morgan State6. Hampton7. Norfolk State8. Florida A&M9. Howard10. Delaware State11. Savannah State---=TEAM CAPSULES=1. NORTH CAROLINA A&T AGGIES=LOCATION: Greensboro, North CarolinaSTADIUM: Aggie StadiumCOACH: Rod Broadway (38-19 in five seasons at North Carolina A&T; 106-42 overall)LAST SEASON: 10-2 overall, 7-1 MEAC (Tie/1st)STARTERS RETURNING: 15 (8 offense/7 defense)THREE KEY LOSSES: Kwashawn Quick, QB; Denzel Jones, LB; Tony McRae, CBONE TO WATCH ON OFFENSE: Tarik Cohen, RB, Sr. (264 carries, 1,543 yards, 15 TDs; 25 receptions, 217 yards)ONE TO WATCH ON DEFENSE: Marquis Ragland, DE, R-Sr. (48 TT, 11.5 TFL, 2.5 sacks, 1 INT, 2 PBU, 5 QBH, 1 FF, 1 BK)OTHER KEY PLAYERS: Lamar Raynard, QB, R-So.; Kylil Carter, QB, So.; Denzel Keyes, WR, Sr.; Khris Gardin, WR/RS, Jr.; Caleb Gabriel, WR/KR, Jr.; Brandon Parker, OL, R-Jr.; Darriel Mack, C, R-Jr.; Marcus Pettiford, OL, So.; Angelo Keyes, DE, R-Sr.; Malik Hampton-Prioleau, DE, Sr.; Marcus Albert, LB, R-Jr.; Deion Jones, LB, R-So.; Lorenz Suttles, Rover, Sr.; Zerius Lockhart, FS, Jr.; Tard McCoy, CB, Jr.; Cody Jones, P, Sr.OUTLOOK: The Aggies were considered the 2015 black college national champions after they beat SWAC champ Alcorn State in the inaugural Celebration Bowl. With Cohen returning for his senior season, the Aggies are favored to get back to Atlanta, although their schedule includes road matchups against the teams picked second (Bethune-Cookman) and third (North Carolina Central) in the MEACs preseason poll. Cohen, who has won two MEAC offensive player of the year awards, has surpassed 1,000 rushing yards in each of his first three seasons, totaling 4,031 yards and 38 touchdowns on the ground (40 TDs overall). His entire starting offensive line returns as well. At quarterback, Raynard (55-for-122, 632 yards, 7 TDs, 1 INT) played a lot and Carter (22-for-46, 244, 4 TDs, 1 INT), the better runner, came on strong late last season. The defense suffered bigger losses than the offense, but the Aggies led the conference in total defense (267.3 ypg). Keyes (54 TT, 15.5 TFL) and Ragland will be disruptive in opposing backfields. It also helps to have the All-America punt returner in Gardin.SCHEDULE:Sept. 3, St. AugustinesSept. 10, at Kent StateSept. 17, at TulsaOct. 1, Hampton*Oct. 8, Norfolk State*Oct. 15, at Bethune-Cookman*Oct. 22, at Howard*Oct. 29, Florida A&M*Nov. 5, South Carolina State*Nov. 12, at Delaware State*Nov. 19, at North Carolina Central** -- MEAC game---=2. BETHUNE-COOKMAN WILDCATS=LOCATION: Daytona Beach, FloridaSTADIUM: Memorial StadiumCOACH: Terry Sims (9-2 in one season at Bethune-Cookman)LAST SEASON: 9-2 overall, 7-1 MEAC (Tie/1st)STARTERS RETURNING: 12 (7 offense/5 defense)THREE KEY LOSSES: Quentin Williams, QB; Anthony Jordan, RB; Robert Way, LBONE TO WATCH ON OFFENSE: Michael Jones, RB, Sr. (96 carries, 562 yards, 7 TDs; 18 receptions, 318 yards, 1 TD)ONE TO WATCH ON DEFENSE: Diquan Richardson, S, Jr. (58 TT, 2 TFL, 1 sack, 3 PBU, 1 FR, 2 FF, 1 BK)OTHER KEY PLAYERS: Larry Brihm, QB, R-Jr.; Akevious Williams, QB, R-Fr.; Frank Brown, WR/PR, R-Jr.; Jawill Davis, WR, R-Jr.; Keavon Mitchell, WR, So.; Jaime Wilson, WR, R-Sr.; Ja-Quan Lumas, TE, R-Sr.; Trevin Huff, OL, R-Sr.; Phillip Norman, C, R-Jr.; Todney Evans, DL, R-So.; Jamal Thomas, DL, So.; Todney Evans, DL, R-So.; DeMarcus Womack, DL, Sr.; Kevin Thompson, DL, Jr.; Trenton Bridges, LB, R-So.; Elliott Miller, DB, So.; Arthur Williams, DB, Jr.; Jonathan Cagle, P, Sr.OUTLOOK: The Wildcats have earned at least a share of five MEAC titles in the last six seasons, including Sims first campaign a year ago when he was named the conference coach of the year. They have a spotlight to open the season, facing Alcorn State in the MEAC-SWAC Challenge, but their season hinges on the October run of games against North Carolina Central, South Carolina State and North Carolina A&T. Their 15 selections on the MEAC preseason team were the conference high. To get to the coveted Celebration Bowl, the Wildcats must replace longtime QB Williams, but Brihn (52-for-94, 614 yards, 4 TDs, 3 INTs) has seen significant action in both of his first two seasons, so the change can be handled well. Plus, RB Jones will keep the offense potent. The veteran secondary, led by Richardson, should be the strength of the defense, while LB Bridges is ready for a bigger role after a strong freshman campaign. The Wildcats are reworking their defensive line after it lost several key players.SCHEDULE:Sept. 4, Alcorn StateSept. 10, at North TexasSept. 17, Tennessee StateSept. 24, at Savannah State*Oct. 1, North Carolina Central*Oct. 8, at South Carolina State*Oct. 15, North Carolina A&T*Oct. 22, at Norfolk State*Oct. 29, Delaware State*Nov. 5, at Morgan State*Nov. 19, Florida A&M** -- MEAC game---=3. NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL EAGLES=LOCATION: Durham, North CarolinaSTADIUM: OKelly-Riddick StadiumCOACH: Jerry Mack (15-8 in two seasons at North Carolina Central)LAST SEASON: 8-3 overall, 7-1 MEAC (Tie/1st)STARTERS RETURNING: 13 (7 offense/6 defense)THREE KEY LOSSES: Clevonne Davis, RT; C.J. Moore, S; Ryan Smith, CBONE TO WATCH ON OFFENSE: Malcolm Bell, QB, R-Sr. (126-for-243, 1,581 yards, 8 TDs, 9 INTs; 138 carries, 509 yards, 5 TDs)ONE TO WATCH ON DEFENSE: Jeremy Miles, LB, R-Sr. (80 TT, 5 TFL, 1 sack, 4 PBU, 1 FF)OTHER KEY PLAYERS: Dorrel McClain, RB, R-So.; Quentin Atkinson, WR, R-Sr.; LaVontis Smith, WR/RS, Sr.; Khalil Stinson, WR, R-Jr.; Carl Jones, C, R-Sr.; Desmond Cooper, LT, R-Sr.; Tarrance Wells, LG, Sr.; Antonio Brown, DE, R-Jr.; JaQuan Smith, DT, R-Jr.; Darius Spruill, DT, R-Sr.; LeGrande Harley, LB, R-Sr. (South Florida transfer); Reggie Hunter, LB, R-Jr.; Mike Jones, CB, R-Jr.; Davanta Reynolds, FS, R-So.; Nathaniel Tilque, P, Jr.OUTLOOK: Coming off their second consecutive share of the MEAC title and the programs Division I high for wins, the Eagles feel they can capture their first outright championship. Theyre led by the MEACs top-returning quarterback in fifth-year senior Bell, a dual-threat. They also return the MEACs offensive rookie of the year in RB McClain (958 yards, 8 TDs), top WRs Atkinson (who was injured last season) and Smith, and a stout offensive line. However, the Eagles have to do a better job on third downs after converting only 28 percent last season. If they dont, it will put added pressure on the defense, which lost three of its four leading tacklers, including CB Smith, their first-ever NFL draft choice (Tampa Bay Buccaneers). Harley, a transfer from South Florida, is a big addition to the linebacker corps, which features Miles. The Eagles, who closed last season on a seven-game winning streak, play four of their first five games on the road.SCHEDULE:Sept. 3, at DukeSept. 10, at Western MichiganSept. 17, St. AugustinesSept. 24, at Norfolk State*Oct. 1, at Bethune-Cookman*Oct. 8, Florida A&M*Oct. 15, Savannah State*Oct. 22, at Morgan State*Nov. 5, at Delaware State*Nov. 12, Howard*Nov. 19, North Carolina A&T** -- MEAC game---=4. SOUTH CAROLINA STATE BULLDOGS=LOCATION: Orangeburg, South CarolinaSTADIUM: Oliver C. Dawson StadiumCOACH: Buddy Pough (112-51 in 14 seasons at South Carolina State)LAST SEASON: 7-4 overall, 6-2 MEAC (4th)STARTERS RETURNING: 14 (8 offense/6 defense)ONE TO WATCH ON OFFENSE: Javarius Leamon, LT, R-Sr. (STATS FCS Preseason All-America second team)ONE TO WATCH ON DEFENSE: Darius Leonard, LB, R-Jr. (70 TT, 13.5 TFL, 5 sacks, 2 INTs, 2 PBU, 2 QBH, 1 FR, 1 FF)THREE KEY LOSSES: Jalen Simmons, RB; Javon Hargrave, DT; Antonio Hamilton, S/RSOTHER KEY PLAYERS: Caleb York, QB, So.; Adrian Kollock Jr., QB, R-Sr.; Justin Taylor, RB, R-Jr.; Dondre Brown, FB/TE, Sr.; Mykal Moody, WR, R-Jr.; Trey Sammuel, WR, So.; Lynard Jamison, WR, R-So.; Justin Evans, OL, R-Jr.; Greg Newell, DE, R-Jr.; Ty Cravens, DE, R-Jr.; Dayshawn Taylor, LB, R-Jr.; Tyler Smith, LB, Grad; Phillip Henry, S, R-Sr.; Shaquan Brock, DB, Grad; Marquise Jones, DB, Sr.; Tyler Scandrett, PK, So.OUTLOOK: Will playing three straight FBS opponents to open the season -- UCF, Louisiana Tech and Clemson -- catch up to the Bulldogs when they move into MEAC play? Its a rugged challenge, but the Bulldogs hope its a springboard to a banner season. Pough is a dynamite coach, so he probably has it figured out. The teams focus has been on replenishing the offensive and defensive lines, which were hit hard by graduation. Regardless, theres no replacing All-America DT Hargrave (22 TFL, 13.5 sacks), now with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Speaking of big men, LT Leamon (6-foot-7, 310 pounds) is the next Bulldog headed to the NFL. He will help protect QB York (142-for-254, 1,723 yards, 11 TDs, 6 INTs), who replaced Kollock during last season and was solid as a freshman. The offense, which also lost TE Temarrick Hemingway to the NFL, needs to find some new playmakers. The defense features the MEACs preseason defensive player of the year in LB Leonard. With their early schedule, the Bulldogs wont play in Orangeburg until Oct. 8.SCHEDULE:Sept. 3, at UCFSept. 10, at Louisiana TechSept. 17, at ClemsonSept. 24, at Florida A&M*Oct. 8, Bethune-Cookman*Oct. 15, at Howard*Oct. 22, Delaware State*Oct. 29, at Hampton*Nov. 5, at North Carolina A&T*Nov. 12, Norfolk State*Nov. 19, Savannah State** -- MEAC game---=5. MORGAN STATE BEARS=LOCATION: BaltimoreSTADIUM: Hughes StadiumCOACH: Fred Farrier, interim (first season at Morgan State)LAST SEASON: 4-6 overall, 4-4 MEAC (Tie/6th)STARTERS RETURNING: 17 (9 offense/8 defense)THREE KEY LOSSES: Moses Skillon, QB; Andrew King, WR; Peterson Javier, SONE TO WATCH ON OFFENSE: Herb Walker Jr., RB, Jr. (ineligible last season)ONE TO WATCH ON DEFENSE: Jai Franklin, NT, Jr. (38 TT, 8.5 TFL, 3 sacks, 1 PBU, 5 QHs)OTHER KEY PLAYERS: Chris Andrews, QB, Grad (Wagner transfer); Khalil Trotman, QB, So.; Orlando Johnson, RB, Sr.; Lamont Brown III, RB, R-Sr.; Ricky Fisk, WR/KR, Sr.; Thomas Martin, WR, Sr.; Amonta Poteat, WR, Sr.; Willie Gillus, TE, Sr.; Matthew Thompson, OL, Jr.; Dominique Woods, OL, Sr.; Joshua Miles, OL, So.; Cooper Clarkin, OL, So.; Damare Whitaker, LB, Jr.; Greg Gibson, LB, Sr.; Delonte Hall, CB, Sr.; Cravon Rogers Jr., S, R-Jr.; Carl Garnes, S, So.; Deadrick Jones, CB, Sr.OUTLOOK: Farrier, the offensive coordinator the last two seasons, is serving as the interim coach after Lee Hull left in the offseason for a position with the Indianapolis Colts. With a veteran team, Farrier should find success. The Bears have a particularly deep running back stable with the return of Walker, who was ineligible last season after setting school records for rushing yards in a game (271) and a season (1,408 yards) and scoring 15 touchdowns in 2014. Johnson, last years starter, and Brown, who had been ahead of Walker to start the 2014 season, also return to the backfield. But the Bears have to replace QB Skillon, seemingly with Wagner graduate transfer Andrews because of his experience. Sophomore LB Gibson hopes to emerge for a deffense that features NT Franklin.dddddddddddd The schedule is interesting in that the Bears play two FBS opponents, yet miss North Carolina A&T and South Carolina State in MEAC action.SCHEDULE:Sept. 3, Holy CrossSept. 10, at MarshallSept. 24, Howard*Oct. 1, Delaware State*Oct. 8, Savannah State*Oct. 15, at Hampton*Oct. 22, North Carolina Central*Oct. 29, at Norfolk State*Nov. 5, Bethune-Cookman*Nov. 12, at Florida A&M*Nov. 19, at Army West Point* -- MEAC game---=6. HAMPTON PIRATES=LOCATION: Hampton, VirginiaSTADIUM: Armstrong StadiumCOACH: Connell Maynor (9-14 in two seasons at Hampton; 54-20 overall)LAST SEASON: 6-5 overall, 5-3 MEAC (5th)STARTERS RETURNING: 10 (5 offense/5 defense)THREE KEY LOSSES: David Watford, QB; Torian White, RT; Miles Grooms, DEONE TO WATCH ON OFFENSE: Twarn Mixson, WR, Grad (59 receptions, 1,027 yards, 9 TDs)ONE TO WATCH ON DEFENSE: Chaka Diarrassouba, DB, Jr. (42 TT, 3 TFL, 1 INT, 2 PBU, 2 BK)OTHER KEY PLAYERS: J.J. Williamson, QB, R-Sr.; Eric Carter, Jr., RB, R-So.; Dwayne Garrett, RB, R-Sr.; Shakim Alonzo, WR, Sr.; Rashawn Proctor, WR, Sr.; Donovan Johnson, OL, Sr.; Alex Hayes, OL, Jr. (Syracuse transfer); Michael Young, OL, Sr.; Jay Willingbroke, TE, Grad (Virginia Tech transfer); Owen Obasuyi, DL, Jr.; Darien Williams, DE, So.; Devan Johnson, LB, So.; Devin Vandyke, LB, Grad (Virginia Tech transfer); Justin Williams, DB, Jr.; Myles Morris, DB, R-Sr.; Darius Banks, DB/KR, Jr.; Christian Faber-Kinney, P, Sr.OUTLOOK: There are a lot of ifs surrounding the Pirates after they lost significant talent from their first winning team since 2011. To combat the losses, Maynor has brought in some transfers who will take on starting roles. Hampton is replacing Watson, the MEAC leader in touchdown passes and passing yards per game, and the answer at quarterback would appear to be Williamson, the Pirates leading passer in 2014. The Pirates boast the MEACs top wide receiver in Mixson, and running back will be a combination of Carter, who was injured last season, and Garrett (457 yards, 1 TD). The defense lost many of its playmakers. The secondary, with Diarrassouba and Morris returning, is the strength on that side of the ball. Maynor is seeking improvement at both lines of scrimmage.SCHEDULE:Sept. 3, at Old DominionSept. 10, William & MarySept. 17, at Howard* (RFK Stadium, Washington, D.C.)Oct. 1, at North Carolina A&T*Oct. 8, at Delaware State*Oct. 15, Morgan State*Oct. 22, at Florida A&M*Oct. 29, South Carolina State*Nov. 12, Savannah State*Nov. 19, Norfolk State*Nov. 26, at Coastal Carolina* -- MEAC game---=7. NORFOLK STATE SPARTANS=LOCATION: Norfolk, VirginiaSTADIUM: William Price StadiumCOACH: Latrell Scott (4-7 in one season at Norfolk State; 29-16 overall)LAST SEASON: 4-7 overall, 4-4 MEAC (Tie/6th)STARTERS RETURNING: 14 (5 offense/9 defense)THREE KEY LOSSES: Isaac White, WR; Deon King, LB; DMetrius Williams, DB;ONE TO WATCH ON OFFENSE: Greg Hankerson, QB, Sr. (177-for-347, 2,052 yards, 13 TDs, 5 INTs; 125 carries, 423 yards, 3 TDs)ONE TO WATCH ON DEFENSE: Sandy Chapman, CB, Sr. (57 TT, 4 TFL, 2 INT, 2 PBU, 1 FR)OTHER KEY PLAYERS: Gerard Johnson, RB, Sr.; Quintreil Chung, RB, So.; Marcus Taylor, WR/KR, So.; James Church Jr., Sr., WR; Louis Humphrey, C, R-Sr.; Daniel Oladimeji, OL, R-Sr.; Chris Lee, DT, Jr.; Walter Brantley, DT, So.; Jay Anderson, DE, Sr.; Kevin Williams, DT, R-Sr.; Kyle Archie, LB, Jr.; Raynard Revels, LB, Sr.; Brandon Walker, S, Sr.; Leroy Parker, S, Sr.; Cameron Marouf, PK, Sr.OUTLOOK: Scott is settled in at Norfolk State and figures to get the Spartans to a higher level in the MEAC. They usually have a strong defense, but while they return nine starters, the two losses were big: LB King, who led the FCS in tackles, and DB Williams. The returnees include Chapman, who will be strong on the back end, and Lee, who will pass rush up front. Unlike a number of MEAC teams, the Spartans are settled at quarterback with the dual-threat Hankerson, although he will want to improve on his 53 percent accuracy last season. The offense returns only one starting offensive lineman, so it needs RB Johnson (418 yards, 1 TD) to come back strong from a knee injury. The same goes for Oladimeji because the Spartans used a number of different offensive line combinations last season. The Spartans struggled on special teams, and Scott has made them a point of emphasis.SCHEDULE:Sept. 3, Elizabeth City StateSept. 10, at RichmondSept. 17, at William & MarySept. 24, North Carolina Central*Oct. 1, Howard*Oct. 8, at North Carolina A&T*Oct. 22, Bethune-Cookman*Oct. 29, Morgan State*Nov. 5, at Savannah State*Nov. 12, at South Carolina State*Nov. 19, at Hampton** -- MEAC game---=8. FLORIDA A&M RATTLERS=LOCATION: Tallahassee, FloridaSTADIUM: Bragg Memorial StadiumCOACH: Alex Wood (1-10 in one season at Florida A&M; 26-34 overall)LAST SEASON: 1-10 overall, 1-7 MEAC (Tie/8th)STARTERS RETURNING: 13 (9 offense/4 defense)KEY LOSSES: Akil Blount, LB; Kashawn Butler, LB; John Boston, DBONE TO WATCH ON OFFENSE: Montavious Williams, WR, R-Sr. (46 receptions, 637 yards, 1 TD)ONE TO WATCH ON DEFENSE: Jacques Bryant, DB, Sr. (75 TT, 1 INT, 5 PBI, 1 FF)OTHER KEY PLAYERS: Vincent Jeffries, QB, Jr. (Santa Rosa Junior College transfer); Ryan Stanley, QB, R-Jr.; Devin Bowers, RB, So.; Brandon Norwood, WR, Jr.; Desmond Noird, TE, Jr.; Carson Royal, TE, R-Sr.; Keonte Cash, C, Sr.; Timothy Jones, LT, R-Sr.; Elijah Price, DL, Jr.; Curtis Alexander, LB, Sr.; Luke Helms, LB, Sr.; Neal Cunningham, SS, R-Sr.; Braxton Brown, CB, R-Sr.; Jules Dornevil, DB, Sr.; Rashad Guyton, DB, R-Jr.; Colby Blanton, P, R-Sr.OUTLOOK: Wood opened preseason camp by stating all positions are open. And why not after the Rattlers slumped to their first-ever 10-loss season and into last place in the MEAC. They have gone four straight seasons without a winning record. Their fifth-year seniors will lead the way this season, although Wood went heavy on junior-college transfers in February. Last years most-regular quarterback, Royal, has moved to tight end. The new signal caller will be Stanley or Jeffries, and both will like that Norward and Williams combined on 95 receptions last season. The offensive line figures to be healthier than a year ago, and standout Cash has moved to center. The defense wore down as well and is looking to build better depth. There are a lot of candidates in the secondary, led by Bryant. The September schedule is quite difficult, so the Rattlers might be slow to show early progress.SCHEDULE:Sept. 3, at Miami (Fla.)Sept. 10, at Coastal CarolinaSept. 17, TuskegeeSept. 24, South Carolina State*Oct. 1, Savannah State*Oct. 8, at North Carolina Central*Oct. 15, at Delaware State*Oct. 22, Hampton*Oct. 29, at North Carolina A&T*Nov. 12, Morgan State*Nov. 19, Bethune-Cookman** -- MEAC game---=9. HOWARD BISON=LOCATION: Washington, D.C.STADIUM: William H. Greene StadiumCOACH: Gary Harrell (18-27 in four seasons at Howard)LAST SEASON: 1-10 overall, 1-7 MEAC (Tie/8th)STARTERS RETURNING: 18 (10 offense/8 defense)THREE KEY LOSSES: Myles Williams, WR; Jacob Bennett, DB; John Fleck, PK/PONE TO WATCH ON OFFENSE: Toree Boyd, OT, Sr. (All-MEAC preseason second team)ONE TO WATCH ON DEFENSE: Craig Johnson, S, Sr. (59 TT, 12.5 TFL, 3 sacks, 3 PBU, 1 QBH, 1 FR, 3 FF)OTHER KEY PLAYERS: Kalen Johnson, QB, R-So.; Ricquaz Brannon, RB, So.; William Parker, RB, R-Sr.; Carlton Rainey, RB, Fr.; Robert Mercer, WR, Sr.; Guy Lemonier, WR, Sr.; Jalen Avery, WR/PR, So.; Justin Chaney, TE, Jr.; Nate Lewis, C, Sr.; Gerald Wright, OL, Jr.; Marquese Blanchard, DT, Sr.; Ghafona Iduewe, DE, R-Jr.; Richard Johnson, DE, R-Jr.; Devin Rollins, LB, R-Sr.; Jalen Day, LB, R-Sr.; Kenneth Russ, CB, Sr.; David Lee, LB, Jr.OUTLOOK: The Bison injected youth into some key positions last season, including in the offensive backfield with QB Johnson (111-for-198, 1,174 yards, 8 TDs, 9 INTs) and leading rusher Brannon. Still, theyre in a rebuilding process, having been outscored 408-169 last season (numbers that were helped by a 55-9 win over Savannah State). The offensive line, anchored by Boyd, has to do a better job after allowing 44 sacks. On defense, Johnson and Hunt are key defensive backs, and LB Day led the team in tackles (85). The Bisons four-game winning streak against Hampton in the Battle of the Real HU ended last season, so they will want to start a new run this year.SCHEDULE:Sept. 3, at MarylandSept. 10, at RutgersSept. 17, Hampton* (RFK Stadium, Washington, D.C.)Sept. 24, at Morgan State*Oct. 1, at Norfolk State*Oct. 8, MonmouthOct. 15, South Carolina State*Oct. 22, North Carolina A&T*Oct. 29, at Savannah State*Nov. 12, at North Carolina Central*Nov. 19, Delaware State** -- MEAC game---=10. DELAWARE STATE HORNETS=LOCATION: Dover, DelawareSTADIUM: Alumni StadiumCOACH: Kenny Carter (1-10 in one season at Delaware State)LAST SEASON: 1-10 overall, 1-7 MEAC (Tie/8th)STARTERS RETURNING: 10 (4 offense/6 defense)THREE KEY LOSSES: Gabe Sherrod, DE; Terrick Colston, DB; J.R. Robinson, DBONE TO WATCH ON OFFENSE: Aris Scott, WR/KR, Sr. (46 receptions, 683 yards, 1 TD)ONE TO WATCH ON DEFENSE: Malik Harris, LB, Jr. (104 TT, 14.5 TFL, 1.5 sacks, 1 INT, 2 PBU, 1 QBH, 1 FR)OTHER KEY PLAYERS: Kobe Lain, QB, So.; Daniel Epperson, QB, Jr. (San Bernadino JC transfer); Gil Rivera, QB, Sr.; Brycen Alleyne, RB/KR, So.; Ernest Mengoni, OL, Sr.; Chuka Ezeuzoh, OL, Sr.; Dominic Floyd, TE, So.; Charles Wallace, DL, So. (Stetson transfer); Javon Barnes, DL, So.; Rashawn Barrett, LB, Sr.; Kameron Rogers, LB, Jr.; Logan Wescott, DB, So.; William Burton, DB, Sr.; Gary Melton, DB, Sr.OUTLOOK: Carter has learned under a number of top college coaches and will need to draw upon his experience to lift the Hornets. They return only 10 starters from a season that was the programs worst since 2003. Foremost in their recovery is finding an answer at quarterback, which has been unsettled the last two seasons. Lain started the final two games of his true freshman season and will try to keep the lead over Epperson, a junior college transfer. The Hornets averaged only 2.3 yards per carry and 79.2 rushing yards per game. On defense, LB Harris is coming off a huge season, but that level of the defense is the only constant as the Hornets are replacing three starters on the defensive line and their top two defensive backs. A non-stop run of South Carolina State, Bethune-Cookman, North Carolina Central and North Carolina A&T appears impossible.SCHEDULE:Sept. 1, at DelawareSept. 10, MonmouthSept. 24, at MissouriOct. 1, at Morgan State*Oct. 8, Hampton*Oct. 15, Florida A&M*Oct. 22, at South Carolina State*Oct. 29, at Bethune-Cookman*Nov. 5, North Carolina Central*Nov. 12, North Carolina A&T*Nov. 19, at Howard** -- MEAC game---=11. SAVANNAH STATE TIGERS=LOCATION: Savannah, GeorgiaSTADIUM: Ted Wright StadiumCOACH: Erik Raeburn (first season at Savannah State; 135-39 overall)LAST SEASON: 1-9 overall, 1-7 MEAC (Tie/8th)STARTERS RETURNING: 15 (8 offense/7 defense)THREE KEY LOSSES: Richard Williams, RB; Sean Fogarty, OL; Connor Christian, DEONE TO WATCH ON OFFENSE: Arshon Spaulding, QB, Sr. (62-for-132, 526 yards, 1 TD, 6 INTs; 97 carries, 555 yards, 4 TDs)ONE TO WATCH ON DEFENSE: Marquis Smith, OLB, Sr. (57 TT, 7 TFL, 1 sack, 1 INT, 2 PBU, 3 QBH, 1 FR, 1 FF)OTHER KEY PLAYERS: Nicholas Bentley, RB, Jr.; Jeremiah Harris, WR, Sr.; Anthony Raymond, WR/RS, So.; Cantrell Frazier, WR, Sr.; Nicholas Carrera, TE, So.; Afolabi Ayangbayi, OL, Sr.; James Livingston, OL, So.; Marcus Lee, LB, Sr.; Stefen Banks, DL, So.; Isaiah Bennett, DB, So.; John Wilson, DB, So.; Gerald Robinson, DB, So.; Juwuan Tolbert, DB, Jr.; John Barron, PK/P, Sr.OUTLOOK: The 45-year-old Raeburn, who has enjoyed great success on the Division III level at Coe and Wabash, is yet another coach who has taken on the task of turning around Savannah State. The Tigers have had only one season with more than two wins since moving to the FCS level in 2000. Raeburn replaces Earnest Wilson III, who departed after going 2-32 in three seasons. And believe it or not, Wilsons three seasons marked the Tigers longest head coaching tenure since Bill Davis from 1986-92. One of the keys for Raeburn is to keep younger players in the program and build around them. But this years leaders are seniors, such as QB Spaulding, their leading rusher but not a strong passer, and OLB Smith, a fourth-year starter and one of Savannah States better players in recent memory. The Tigers need better play from the wide receivers in the passing game and from the defensive backs in stopping the pass.SCHEDULE:Sept. 3, at Georgia SouthernSept. 10, at Southern MissSept. 24, Bethune-Cookman*Oct. 1, at Florida A&M*Oct. 8, Morgan State*Oct. 15, at North Carolina Central*Oct. 29, Howard*Nov. 5, Norfolk State*Nov. 12, at Hampton*Nov. 19, at South Carolina State** -- MEAC game Wholesale NFL Camo Jerseys Wholesale NFL Camo Jerseys Cheap NFL Autographed Jerseys Jerseys NFL Cheap Wholesale Jerseys From China Jerseys From China Cheap Jerseys Online ' ' '