Akron

What You Need To Know

The Zips passing game should be intriguing in 2009.  A core group of seniors returns, including veteran QB Chris Jacquemain and leading receivers Deryn Bowser and Andre Jones.  New offensive coordinator Shane Montgomery and quarterbacks coach Walt Harris bring a wealth of experience that should help improve this already solid group.

The offense does lose fantasy stud RB Dennis Kennedy to graduation.  His replacement, Alex Allen, continues to recover from hip surgery and his return to the lineup is still up in the air.

Best Fantasy Prospect(s)

QB Chris Jacquemain passed for 2,748 yards and 20 TDs in 2008.  With his top two targets returning, along with four starting offensive lineman, he should improve those numbers in 2009.

Sleeper Prospect

Wide receivers Deryn Bowser and Andre Jones could be the biggest benefactors of the new offensive coaching regime.  They accounted for over 1,400 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns between them.  Look for those numbers to jump up.

Biggest Question Heading into August

What is the status of RB Alex Allen?  Allen was slated to be the heir apparent to the departing Dennis Kennedy, but he’s been slow to recover from hip surgery.  Allen’s return is unknown at this time.  Kennedy accounted for over 1,600 total yards and 18 touchdowns last year.  Those are some big shoes to fill.

Spring Game Hero

Freshman WR Nadir Brown caught five balls for 98 yards and a score.

Injury Report

The list is long as twenty-two players missed the spring game.  RB Alex Allen (hip), WR Deryn Bowser and WR Andre Jones were among the walking wounded.  Other than Allen who just can’t seem to get healthy, everyone else should be ready to roll this August.  RB Dale Martin injured his Achilles tendon.  His road to recovery is a bit undetermined at this point.

Spring Recaps - Team Index