Rush

Central Michigan (6-5, 5-3)

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Posted: Wednesday August 11, 1999 05:57 PM

The Plot

Central Michigan is one of three legitimate division contenders, alongside Western and Toledo. But those hopes come with an asterisk, as graduation put several holes in the team's depth that need to be filled. The Chippewas likely will run the ball down most conference opponents' throats, but a hard wake-up call will come during road trips to Syracuse and Purdue.

The Director

Dick Flynn -- sixth season, 26-30.

Starring

RB Eric Flowers -- Everything in Mount Pleasant revolves around its star rusher, who looks to top 1,400 yards.

Co-starring

FB Jason Meyer -- The 205-pounder creates the room for Flowers' runs to grow.
FS Brian Leigeb -- Team's leading tackler two years running.
CB Tedaro France -- All-MAC candidate after solid freshman year.

And introducing

LB Abdullah Muhammad -- Sophomore outside backer proved worth as backup.

Why it will work:

Rushing game will be hard to stop.

Why it won't

Last year's progress will be slowed by massive personnel losses.

Our critics' review

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