Sooner Athletic Conference Newcomer of the Year Bryce Perkins and Athlete of the Year Datlan Cunningham return for a star-studded offensive unit as we are 86 days away from Game 1.
Red Shirt Freshman QB Bryce Perkins matured through the season and began to show flashes of another LCU QB from Arkansas. Perkins toughness was on display in Game 1 a year ago against McNeese when he scored his first TD on a keeper. You could see all throughout as the year progressed the toughness that began to match the on-field athleticism.
The skill players that helped this offense were also led by Redshirt Sophomore Datlan Cunningham. Cunningham is a great combination of power, strength and finesse. But the Running Back room is not an lonely one. RB “Joe” Johnson combined with Cunningham to carry the ball 315 times for over 1500 yards and 18 Touchdowns. In fact, 9 different Cats scored rushing Touchdowns.
So, what do you do? Pack the Box and stop the run? Well, then you face the WR room that was led by EJ Scott and Omar Davis combining for 88 Receptions and 12 TDs.
And guess what, yep, they are back as well as Darius Washington, Xavion Butler, and look for Brennan Hawkins to have a great year that was derailed by a late season injury.
The one question left unanswered is the Tight End spot. But, that will work itself out this summer as the Cats have some great promise there.
You’ve read about the Offensive Line and how they return everyone. Couple that with the Backfield that was the only SAC team to eclipse the 400 point mark and you can see why the optimism is high on the Hill in Pineville.
Stay tuned as we dive deeper into each of the key returners, new additions those expected to shine in their time and the upcoming schedule as we make the march to that Thursday night in August.
Doug Gann covers LCU year-round and can be reached at doug@446sports.com
