With the start of the season around the corner I think it is time to start looking at UTSA's opponents for 2016. The Alabama State Hornets roll (or fly I guess) into the Alamodome to open the 2016 season.
UTSA hasn't had the pleasure of playing against an FCS opponent since 2012. Luckily for Frank Wilson there is arguably no better way for a program with a new head coach to open a season than by playing an FCS team. And although they are FCS, UTSA would be wise not overlook the Hornets. They are picked to finish second in the SWAC East behind defending champion Alcorn State after coming off a 6-5 season in 2015.
Leading the way for Alabama State is senior linebacker Kourtney Berry. The senior linebacker was racked up some preseason accolades by being named First Team All-Defense and SWAC Preseason Player of the Year. This is the second season in a row Berry has been named preseason defensive player of the year. His 130 tackle season in 2015 led to him being named SWAC Defensive Player of the Year.
Other players with preseason accolades were WR Khalid Thomas, RB Kerry Williams, and DL Robert Brown.
UTSA should win this game, but it might not be as easy as most think. Not because UTSA is not a good team, or even that Alabama State is that great. There is a new coach, a new offense, a new defense, and possibly a new quarterback. UTSA might not start out so hot, but they should win the game comfortably.
Next Week: Colorado State
UTSA hasn't had the pleasure of playing against an FCS opponent since 2012. Luckily for Frank Wilson there is arguably no better way for a program with a new head coach to open a season than by playing an FCS team. And although they are FCS, UTSA would be wise not overlook the Hornets. They are picked to finish second in the SWAC East behind defending champion Alcorn State after coming off a 6-5 season in 2015.
Leading the way for Alabama State is senior linebacker Kourtney Berry. The senior linebacker was racked up some preseason accolades by being named First Team All-Defense and SWAC Preseason Player of the Year. This is the second season in a row Berry has been named preseason defensive player of the year. His 130 tackle season in 2015 led to him being named SWAC Defensive Player of the Year.
Other players with preseason accolades were WR Khalid Thomas, RB Kerry Williams, and DL Robert Brown.
UTSA should win this game, but it might not be as easy as most think. Not because UTSA is not a good team, or even that Alabama State is that great. There is a new coach, a new offense, a new defense, and possibly a new quarterback. UTSA might not start out so hot, but they should win the game comfortably.
Next Week: Colorado State
