MAC benefiting from NBA lockout

by Dan Kadar on Nov 15, 2011 7:30 PM EST

The NBA lockout kinda sucks. Though it's not because I necessarily miss the NBA – I'm a Cavs fan, so I don't miss watching that hot garbage. But there are all those paycheck-to-paycheck people without jobs. That sucks.

But if there has been beneficiary of the NBA lockout, it is the Mid-American Conference. Instead of having their games relegated to ESPN3 or, at best, ESPNU the MAC has been given the spotlight on weeknights. Although tonight's Ball State at Northern Illinois is on ESPNU, the conference has games on ESPN and ESPN2 tomorrow. Had the NBA been in session, that would be unlikely.

As football a fan, hopefully you've been tuning in because the MAC has something for just about every football fan. There have been high scoring games, occasional strong defenses, some trickeration and enough general fun-time MACtion for the whole family.

For the purposes of this site, the conference even has some NFL Draft talent, just maybe not as much as in the past. Tonight's most noteworthy player is Northern Illinois quarterback Chandler Harnish. As mentioned earlier this week, Harnish is an athletic project quarterback operating the Huskies' spread option. Offensive tackle Seth Olson should at least get a camp invite because of his size (6-foot-6, 300 pounds). Ball State safety Sean Backer will likely get a look as well. He's the Cardinals' all-time leader in interceptions with 18.

By now you probably know the other top MAC talent, led by Temple running back Bernard Pierce and Toledo wide receiver Eric Page. But if you wish to learn more about the MAC, make sure to check out Hustle Belt. Or if you just want more MAC prospect thoughts, just say so in the comments.

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Miami University

Miami has two strong candidates. First is WR Chris Givens, who has the necessary speed and experience in a pro-style offense to be a late-round success story.

The second prospect, who may not come out until next year, is QB Zac Dysert. Dysert has shown himself capable of putting the Redhawks on his shoulders, can make all the NFL throws, and has experience in a Pro-style system. While he would be a late round pick this year, he may well play himself to a mid-round pick next year.

Is it obvious I’m an alum?

by TrueBlue87 on Nov 15, 2011 10:29 PM EST reply actions

Harnish has great speed

There was a play tonight where he handed the ball off, then chased down and passed his RB to throw a block on the safety 20 yards down the field. Also had a 50-yard TD run. I wonder if they try to move him to another position. But he could easily be drafted late as a QB.