Looking ahead to the AAC football season, there have been some significant changes in the conference. With Houston, UCF, and Cincinnati moving to the Big 12 in realignment, the AAC responded by adding six new teams, including Charlotte, North Texas, Rice, UTSA, UAB, and FAU. With 14 teams now in the league, there are plenty of storylines to watch. In this article, we will break down the conference and provide some predictions for the upcoming season.
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The Favorite: Tulane (+210)
Tulane had a remarkable 2022 season, winning 12 games and finishing No. 9 in the Associated Press poll. They have the advantage of quarterback Michael Pratt returning, who accounted for 3,488 yards and 37 total touchdowns. With one of the strongest offensive line units in the AAC, Tulane will face early tests against South Alabama and Ole Miss. Expect them to be at the top of the standings.
The Challenger: SMU (+300)
SMU has a favorable schedule in 2023, with no matchups against Tulane and UTSA. Led by rising star quarterback Preston Stone and reinforced with talent from the transfer portal, the Mustangs have the pieces to make it to the AAC title game. However, their defense must improve after allowing 33.8 points per game last season.
The Dark Horse: UTSA (+400)
UTSA is making their AAC debut and has the potential to compete for the league title. With quarterback Frank Harris returning after averaging 333.2 total yards per game in 2022, the Roadrunners have a strong foundation. They are also bringing back 16 starters, including a loaded defense that held teams to 5.5 yards per snap last season.
The X-Factor: Memphis (+600)
Despite a mediocre AAC record in recent years, Memphis has made it to three consecutive bowl games under head coach Ryan Silverfield. With one of the conference’s top quarterbacks in Seth Henigan and the help of the transfer portal, the Tigers are motivated to take the program to new heights. The changes in the AAC teams should work in their favor for the upcoming season.
The Disappointment: Temple (+3500)
Coach Stan Drayton’s debut season with Temple was underwhelming, with only three victories. The defense was a major letdown, allowing an average of 36.4 points per game in the AAC. Unless there is significant improvement, Temple is likely to have another disappointing season in 2023.
The Rest:
FAU (+600)
New coach Tom Herman has transformed FAU into a contender. With the addition of quarterback Casey Thompson from the transfer portal and a talented backfield, FAU’s offense has the potential to make an impact. The offensive line’s performance and the emergence of playmakers at the wide receiver position will be key factors for their success.
East Carolina (+3000)
Although East Carolina had a solid 8-5 season last year, contending for the AAC title in 2023 will be challenging. The team lost their starting quarterback, running back, and two receivers, and they have minimal offensive line experience. With a transitioning offense, East Carolina will need to rely on their defense for success.
North Texas (+3000)
New head coach Eric Morris brings an offensive-minded approach to North Texas. With a strong offense that averaged 33.8 points per game last season, the Mean Green should maintain their scoring prowess. However, improvement in their defense, which allowed 197.8 rushing yards per game in 2022, will be crucial for their contention.
Navy (+3000)
Under new head coach Brian Newberry, Navy’s defensive strength is expected to shine in 2023, with nine starters returning. However, the offense needs improvement after finishing last in the conference in yards per play and scoring last season. The absence of matchups against Tulane and UTSA provides some relief in their schedule.
UAB (+4500)
UAB faces uncertainty with many unproven transfers and significant departures. With a brand-new coach and the need to fill key positions like quarterback and running back, UAB is expected to face struggles in the upcoming season.
South Florida (+5000)
New coach Alex Golesh has the challenge of revamping South Florida’s program after a 1-11 season. The defensive unit needs significant improvement after surrendering an average of 41.2 points per game in 2022.
Tulsa (+5500)
Tulsa has potential in 2023 with promising quarterback Braylon Braxton and the return of running back Anthony Watkins. However, the offensive line must demonstrate improvement after allowing 45 sacks last season.
Rice (+7000)
Rice made a bowl game appearance last year for the first time since 2014. With the addition of former Georgia quarterback JT Daniels and the return of receiver Luke McCaffrey, Rice has a chance to improve. Defensive improvement will also be important after allowing 197.8 rushing yards per game in 2022.
Charlotte (+20000)
Charlotte is unlikely to surpass last year’s three-win total. With key losses in the receiving corps and uncertainty at quarterback, the team’s outlook is challenging. However, the addition of over 30 transfers, thanks to new coach Biff Poggi’s efforts in the transfer portal, brings some potential.
Projected AAC Standings
- Tulane
- UTSA
- SMU
- Memphis
- Florida Atlantic
- East Carolina
- North Texas
- UAB
- Navy
- Temple
- Tulsa
- Rice
- South Florida
- Charlotte
Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
