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| Tuskegee was predicted to repeat as SIAC Champions at the conference’s media day on Tuesday. (Core 360 photo) |
It’s good to be king in HBCU football conferences in 2013. Tuskegee was predicted to win the SIAC West Division and the SIAC championship at the conference’s annual media day on Tuesday morning. Tuskegee was the fourth reigning HBCU conference champion predicted to win its division and/or conference.
The Golden Tigers were 10-2 last season en-route to a SIAC Championship.
In the SIAC East Albany State narrowly edged out Fort Valley State, last season’s runner up, as favorites for the division crown.
EAST DIVISION
1. Albany State University (3 first place votes)-If Albany State can keep its defense off the field a more in 2012, they justify this pick.
2. Fort Valley State University (2 first place votes) -The Wildcats have a ferocious defense, led by the Furr Brothers (LeRon and DeRon) but the offense might hold them back.
3. Morehouse College-The Marooon Tigers will try to improve on last season’s 3-7 finish, but will have to do so without RB David Carter.
4. Benedict College-This position would likely be an improvement over last year’s 1-9 finish.
5. Clark Atlanta University-New head coach Kevin Weston is hoping the Wing T will bring some life to a team that scored just 98 points in 10 games last season.
WEST DIVISION
1. Tuskegee University (4 first place votes)-The Golden Tigers will miss running back Derrick Washington, but with key playmakers including QB Justin Nared, WR Marquel Gardner and several key defenders.
2. Miles College (2 first place votes) A strong running game and solid defense will keep Miles in contention in 2013.
3. Stillman College-There’s a lot of upside on the offensive side of the ball with sophomore QB Josh Straughn and veteran experience on the defensive side of the ball. Don’t be surprised if they step up as Tuskegee’s key competitor in 2013.
4. Kentucky State University-Seeking offensive playmakers in 2013.
5. Lane College-The Dragons have two talented quarterbacks, Chris Rini and McKinsley Marbury, and not much else.
6. Central State University-No love for the new kids on the block as former NAIA power Central State is picked last in the SIAC West.