As JMU Football begins fall camp for the 2018 season on Friday, there are several things we know, and some we don’t as it pertains to the offense. Let’s break those things down.

Running Backs- What We Know

The Running Back stable will be deep and wide again this year. With key returners from last year in Trai Sharpe, Marcus Marshall and Cardon Jonson, we know they have experience. They are hard to tackle and bring different skill sets to table. We know that Percy Agyei Obese has tremendous potential, and that Jawon Hamilton is an FBS level player who had a good freshman year and could add a punch in the backfield.

Running Backs- What We Don’t Know

What we don’t know yet is how these backs will be used. Will one of these players move to the slot? Could we see more two back sets this year? Only time will tell.

Offensive Line- What We Know

We know there are a lot of offensive lineman, we know that they have good size, and we know that those who were here in the spring, cross-trained to learn two positions. We also know there are a few players who missed time last year that will have some catching up to do. We know the new offensive line coach Steve Shankweiler is a fundamental technician, and lastly the base for a powerful ground game is there.

Offensive Line- What We Don’t Know

What we don’t know is who will land the spots for playing time, or if can they replicate a similar physical rushing attack like JMU displayed in 2016. This year’s line will need to be a punishing front to allow the above mentioned running backs to set the tone for the offense.

Receivers- What We Know

At Wide Receiver, we know Riley Stapleton is still 6’5, so he’s a big target and was left off the preseason all-conference team despite a strong end to 2017. We know David Eldridge is due a break out season and has the extra gear to be a top-level wide out. We know Tight End Clayton Cheatham got quality experience as a true freshman last year and Nick Carlton, who was on his way to a good season before an injury put an end to it, is back ready to make an impact again.

Receivers- What We Don’t Know

What we don’t know is, will the host of young receivers be ready for more consistent action, delivering consistent play to add depth at that position? Can Mack Cullen continue the big strides he took in the spring and be another option at Tight End, or will there be another Tight End emerge to capture playing time?

Quarterback- What We Don’t Know

Finally, we don’t know at this point who the starting quarterback will be. From the indication we’ve been given from the coaches and from what I’ve seen in spring ball, Cole Johnson and Ben DiNucci should have an interesting competition with Gage Moloney nipping at their heels.

Even though we don’t know who the next quarterback will be, or answers to some of the other questions raised, it’s safe to say that the Dukes are sitting in a pretty good spot to be a tough out again this year.