UB Bulls 2009 football preview: Offense

by Steve

The University @ Buffalo football team opens up the season Saturday Sept 5th 8pm (UB +8) @ UTEP. James Starks' injury no doubt has taken the wind out of many fans sails, my self included, but the team is more than just one player. They're also a coach, Turner Gill, and thankfully he returns. And with Gill still at the helm the idea of a bowl birth and even a MAC Championship has to be on the table.

Taking over for the best quarterback (statistically) in UB history, Drew Willy, is lefty Zach Maynard. The 6'3 sophomore is a near 180 from the pocket passer his predecessor was. Maynard, a double threat, isn't afraid to roll out and take off for a big run or stick around in the pocket and sling it around. His only major contribution last year was burning his red shirt freshman season a few games into the 08 campaign. Gill decided to send him in for a play last year when Willy went down in what appeared to be a major injury which turned out to be nothing. Since then Maynard has solidified himself as the guy in '09.

Since Starks is out for the year Naaman Roosevelt needs to some how get better. Walterfootball.com ranked Roosevelt the 13th best WR in the country over the spring and even Mel Kiper jr has mentioned him in the recent past. Losing Willy certainly has the possibility of hurting his chances on building on an incredible 2008(104 catches 13 tds). But with dreams of being drafted in the top three rounds in next April's draft, this team may quickly become NR's team.

Another potential bright spot that could emerge in the absence of Starks is Brandon Thermilus. Last year as the change of pace back and goal line bruiser, Thermilus has the track record and pedigree to excel as the full time star. Seven touchdowns and a stout 4.5 yards a carry allows for hope this season despite what's his name's absence. Alonzo Highsmith's kid needless to say has big shoes to fill.

Other than that, the offensive line is replacing LT, C and RG. Major contributing seniors Jesse Rack and Brett Hamlin return. Behind them, who is going to step up is anyone's guess. Sophomore wide receivers Terrell Jackson and Marcus Rivers are a mix of height and speed while back up running backs senior Mario Henry and junior Ike Nduka have been thrust into more prominent roles.

The holes left behind by Willy and Starks are massive. Despite that I have an eerie confidence in this Bulls squad. This is in major contrast to the Bills and the obvious difference is a steady confident hand at the helm. Gill's presence will be even more evident this season as Gill will be calling the offensive plays.

Here's hoping for 6 wins and another bowl birth.

defensive preview later this week.