New Western Kentucky coach Bobbie Petrino has his work cut out for him during his first season with the Hilltoppers. The offense will get a complete makeover, switching from the West Coast, power-run system to Petrino's prostyle, multiple attack. Petrino must also find a quarterback who can run the offense effectively. Having limited options at the quarterback position is a major concern for the ex-Arkansas coach. There were three QBs in spring camp and one signed for the fall. Only one has any significant playing time, and all three struggled in spring to grasp the change in offensive styles. Petrino has 15 wide receivers on the roster, but only five caught passes in 2012. With a rookie QB and only 5 returning starters on offense..it will be a big challenge for the new coach.
The defense has an impressive back end full of playmakers, speed and hard hitters but a major concern is the defensive line where four senior starters are gone. If the defense can patch together a D-line and hold their own against the run, there is hope the defense will be able to carry them on days the offense struggles.
If Petrino succeeds right away and rehabilitates his reputation, it will be interesting to see if he hangs around long enough to move with the program to Conference USA in 2014.
The defense has an impressive back end full of playmakers, speed and hard hitters but a major concern is the defensive line where four senior starters are gone. If the defense can patch together a D-line and hold their own against the run, there is hope the defense will be able to carry them on days the offense struggles.
If Petrino succeeds right away and rehabilitates his reputation, it will be interesting to see if he hangs around long enough to move with the program to Conference USA in 2014.