Previewing Cajuns Opponents – Game 5 – at Texas State

Historically, when we talk about four and twenty, we are talking about the number of blackbirds baked in a pie.

But that's also the record of the Texas State Bobcats the last two seasons.

Third year coach Everett Withers inherited a mess in San Marcos, and, to make matters worse, there was plenty of attrition before the first campaign.  But Withers has been steadfast in the way he is trying to rebuild the program.  He hasn't gone for the quick fix and brings back a veteran, yet still relatively young squad with only six seniors among the projected starters.

Willie Lee Jones seems poised to take over the quarterback duties.  He saw limited action in ten games a year ago throwing for 289 yards and rushing for another 168.  The Bobcats should be improved offensively, as they return four of their offensive lineman, their starting running back and two of their starters at wide receiver.  Defensively, the Bobcats showed some flashes, allowing just 18 points in their two wins, but also allowed thirty points or more on eight occasions, including their last four games.

In conference play, the schedule does them no favors, as they miss the team picked last in the East Division (Coastal Carolina.)  They play three of their first four games on the road before a bye week prior to hosting Louisiana.  They also close the season with the three best teams in the league, although they get Appalachian State and Arkansas State at home.

OUTLOOK:  Whether Withers is on the hot seat depends on who you talk to.  While the record hasn't been good, it should be noted Withers has been meticulous in how this program is being built.  But the reality is, Texas State will probably be an underdog in eleven games this season.  It's time for the Bobcats to show some improvement both on the field and in the won/loss column.  If that happens, a fourth year could be in the offing.  If not, the 'Cats could be looking to finish the rebuilding with a new staff.