I will be previewing all of the NE-10 football teams over the next 10 days. I will roll out each team in my preseason poll from # 10 to # 1. The NE-10 will release the coaches preseason poll towards the end of August.

The season starts on September 5th when American International travels to face PSAC opponent East Stroudsburg.

Here is the my pick for # 4 in the league in 2013:

Bentley University Falcons (8-2, 6-2 NE-10)

Coach: Thom Boerman, 5th season (27-12)

Opening Game: September 7th vs. Mercyhurst

2013 Schedule

2012 Stats

2013 Roster

The Bentley Falcons were this close to playing for the NE-10 title last year. But two losses by a total of eight points to the top two teams did them in. Bentley has a lot of talent returning on both sides of the ball and will be in the mix for the league crown.

Senior quarterback Danny Guadagnoli returns to the lead the offense. He was very efficient last year by throwing for 2,300 yards and 16 touchdowns. His top target might be the top receiver in the league, Jeff Hill. The junior caught 51 passes last year for nearly 1,000 yards. He will be the focal point of opposing defensive coordinators. Senior Lorenzo Warren should see the majority of carries out of the backfield. Senior Chris Cadigan will be the leader of an always-talented offensive line.

The Falcon defense allowed just 15.7 points per game last year and will look to continue their stingy ways. Senior linebacker Blaine Hopwood is the heart and soul of the defense after leading the team in tackles last year. Senior AC Carter will be called upon to sure up the middle of the field. The defensive line was hit hard by graduation but hope that senior Mike DiLegge will anchor the Falcons in the trenches. Junior Brad Keirstead will see a lot of action in the secondary.

Head coach Thom Boerman is willing to play any team in the region and the opening weekend with Mercyhurst will be a great barometer for his team. A game against a solid PSAC team will see if his team is ready for the NE-10 schedule. If they are able to play physical and mistake free, they will have a good shot at playing for a NE-10 title in November.