Central Michigan

Central Michigan's offseason revolves around replacing significant offensive production while navigating structural uncertainty across multiple position groups. The Chippewas posted a respectable 7-5 record in 2025, but their JP+ rating projects regression with concerning marks on offense (-5.0, 118th nationally) dragging down an improved defense (-2.3, 94th). Key departures include receivers Tyson Davis (24.4 PPA) to Virginia and Langston Lewis (21.6 PPA), creating a massive target-share vacuum that quarterback Joey Labas must navigate with largely new weapons. The addition of running back Vaughn Blue (5.9 PPA) from Liberty helps offset the loss of Trey Cornist to UConn, but the offensive line reset compounds the continuity challenges.

JP+ projects 6.4 wins for Central Michigan, suggesting the market may overvalue last season's success given the underlying structural fragility. The defense showed improvement and should keep the Chippewas competitive in most MAC contests, but the offensive uncertainty — from pass-catching options to trench protection — creates a lower floor than the record indicates. If Labas can develop chemistry with new receivers quickly and the offensive line gels early, Central Michigan could surprise and push for eight wins in a winnable conference. If the offensive reset lingers into conference play, a step back toward five or six wins becomes the more likely outcome.