For the past month, we previewed all 12 MAC teams, breaking down position group by position group. We evaluated players by the sample data points we already had from previous seasons, but every year, a new crop of players breaks out to take over the conference. For instance, Kent State wide receiver Dante Cephas logged 82 receptions and 1,240 yards in 2021 after entering last season with career totals of 15 and 155 across two seasons. So who is primed to become this year’s Cephas?
Now that we have a sample data point on 12 teams, here are five budding MAC stars who impressed Week 1 and could generate momentum for all-conference honors later down the line: