Ball State University Athletics
MAC Announces Preseason Media Football Poll
July 28, 2016 | Football
DETROIT, Mich. – The Mid-American Conference announced its 2016 preseason media poll at the league's annual football media day event Thursday morning at Ford Field. Ball State was picked to finish fifth in the West Division.
Ball State is under the direction of former Cardinal and first year head coach, Mike Neu. This year's football team features six returning starters on offense highlighted by sophomore quarterback Riley Neal, senior wide receiver KeVonn Mabon and junior running back Darian Green. Nine returning starters are on the defensive side of the ball led by first team All-MAC performers Joshua Posley (defensive lineman) and Sean Wiggins (linebacker).
Western Michigan was the overwhelming favorite to win the MAC championship. The Cardinals are scheduled to host Western Michigan on Tuesday, Nov. 1 in a nationally televised game on ESPN2 or ESPNU. Ball State begins league action against Northern Illinois, which has won six straight MAC West crowns, on Saturday, Oct. 1. Northern Illinois was picked third in the West this year behind Western Michigan and Toledo.
Ball State begins its preseason practice schedule on Thursday, Aug. 4. The regular season opener is slated for Friday, Sept. 2 at Georgia State.
For the most up-to-date news on the Ball State football team, please follow @BallStateSports, @BallStateFB and @BSUCoachNeu.
For ticket information, call 888-BSU-TICKET, click here, or visit the Worthen Arena Ticket Office weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.
The complete poll follows:
Team (First Place Votes) PointsMAC East Division
1. Bowling Green (12) 136
2. Ohio (10) 134
3. Akron (4) 107
4. Buffalo 75
5. Miami 52
6. Kent State 42
MAC West Division
1. Western Michigan (19) 144
2. Toledo (2) 113
3. Northern Illinois (3) 112
4. Central Michigan (2) 98
5. Ball State 44
6. Eastern Michigan 35
2016 MAC Championship Game Winner: Western Michigan (19); Toledo (2); Northern Illinois (2); Central Michigan (1); Bowling Green (1); Akron (1).
