5 reasons: Why this team is different

1

An invigorated Bill Doba. The fifth-year head coach has returned to his roots, taking on the roles of defensive coordinator and linebackers coach.

2

New blood on the coaching staff. Three assistants left and three new ones came on board: running backs coach Steve Broussard, defensive line coach Marty Long and cornerbacks coach Dave Walkosky.

3

Improved special teams play. With Walkosky as the spearhead, the Cougars’ special teams are undergoing a makeover.

4

An influx of new players. Doba calls this his best recruiting class with as many as seven incoming players having a big impact.

5

A chance for long-distance field goals. Kicker Romeen Abdollmohammadi returned with a stronger leg, as evidenced by his making of a 52-yarder in a recent scrimmage.