Fall From Glory

Ball State ('98: 1-10, 1-7 MAC)

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Posted: Wednesday August 11, 1999 05:03 PM

The Plot

Ball State's horrid 1998 campaign was hardly noticeable in the bigger picture of college football. But in Muncie, Ind., such misery is not commonplace. The 10 losses set a school record, and consecutive losing seasons hadn't previously been done since 1985. The defense should indeed get better fast, with 10 starters returning, but finding a starting quarterback remains the biggest challenge.

The Director

Bill Lynch -- fifth season, 21-24; 57-36-3 overall.

Ensemble cast

WR Adrian Reese -- Capable playmaker who's skills get underused when offense is never on field.
LB Marlon Llewellyn -- Defensive anchor notched 11 tackles-for-loss in '98.
DT Mark Zackery -- Started every game as a sophomore.

Why it will work

At least the conference schedule is easy.

Why it won't

Young, porous unit starts at Indiana and at Wisconsin.

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