N.C. Central returns 15 starters from last year’s 7-5 squad as it joins Duke in aiming to become a consistent program in the Bull City.
The Eagles’ strength lies up front in a massive offensive line, which returns four starters. First team All-MEAC guard Clevonne Davis will lead his team in the trenches at 305 pounds, and redshirt senior Zachary Giles and sophomore Sterlin Houston will be tough to move for opposing defensive lines as well, with each listed at 320 pounds. The combination of size and experience on the should help maintain last year’s 4.0 yards per rush on the ground despite the loss of running back Andre Clark.
Defensively, N.C. Central will rely on the experience of four returning defensive backs, a big reason why the Eagles ranked third in the FCS with a turnover margin of plus-12. FCS All-America selection Mike Jones recorded a team-high five interceptions and 13 pass break-ups in 2014.
With games at Duke and Florida International within the first month of the season, N.C. Central’s ability to build on last year’s success will be tested early.
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