This is UCFs conference now. A few formidable FBS opponents, but the Knights own the headlines when it comes to the American Athletic Conference. The AAC is yet to receive respect in the eyes of the Playoff Committee, but maybe 2019 is the year for a breakthrough. However, it’s UCF or bust.
While Central Florida is the clear favorite to win the conference for a third consecutive season, if they falter, so does the conference’s playoff hopes and dreams. If it really takes three years to receive respect, Memphis and USF won’t be able to hop right into playoff contention.
Conference Newcomer – Offense – Brandon Wimbush, QB, Central Florida
After transferring from Notre Dame, Wimbush has secured the starting spot to open the 2019 campaign. The absence of McKenzie Milton and Darriel Mack Jr. on the field for the Knights creates an interesting opportunity for the dual-threat transfer QB. While his success with the Irish was limited, a large portion of the blame falls on the gameplay orchestrator and head coach, noted not-fan of the program, Brian Kelly.
Underrated speed, a canon of an arm, but some accuracy and decision-making concerns, he’s a tremendous prospect with big game experience for Josh Heupel. There’s significant trust and belief that he’ll thrive in Heupel’s gameplan, but either way, he’s a top-tier asset and terrific locker room presence. From leading the Irish to moderate success, to a benching that was less-than-deserved, this transfer seems to have his best play ahead of him.
Conference Newcomer – Defense – McArthur Burnett, CB, South Florida
The senior transfer out of Pahokee, Florida and Coffeyville C.C in Kansas is expected to make an impact right off the bat. Listed as a three-star recruit out of his JUCO, Burnett has five-star defensive back written all over him. The nation’s 14th ranked 2019 class cornerback stands at 5’11 , 185 lbs. Disadvantaged in the recruiting polls because of his age (22), Burnett’s fighting to keep his career going after college.
It takes five minutes of watching his highlight reel to understand why he’s my pick to breakout with the Bulls in 2019. Undersized a bit, but can stay with any wide receiver in college football. He gives a new meaning to “running with the bulls.” Recruited as an all-purpose back, and after an initial trial run at Florida in 2016, circumstances have changed in a major way for the defensive back.
Conference MVP – Adrian Killins Jr, RB, Central Florida
Knights running backs have had the opportunity to work with UCF alum Latavius Murray this offseason and Killins is primed for a breakout. UCFs offense is the definition of high-powered, and with Wimbush under center, you’ve got to imagine it’ll be a big season for the running backs in Orlando.
Storylines of the Year –
McKenzie Milton’s Journey
Milton recently stated he’s in the clear from nerve damage, which is fabulous news. Milton is such a team guy, and the team rallies around him. There’s hope he can return to the game at some point, so keep an eye on his recovery process and physical therapy recovery.
How Many Schools in the AAC are Going Bowling?
We’ll likely see UCF, Cincinnati, Temple, Memphis and Houston out of the American Athletic Conference fighting for bowl eligibility. USF needs a strong conference record to get there. But it’s Tulane that catches my eye. Winnable games within the division, Thursday night home game vs. Houston, the Green Wave can create a tidal wave in the AAC.
Justin McMillan, the grad transfer from LSU can really put Tulane on the map, especially in the AAC, in 2019. Tulane is my dark horse pick to go 7-5, possibly even shock new Houston HC Dana Holgorsen and finish behind Memphis in the West.
Conference Champion – UCF Knights
Simply put, they’re just the best. They’re well-rounded in all three phases and they have a brilliant coaching staff. They’ve put themselves in a significant position to win the conference again. Maybe Memphis gives them trouble in the championship game, but UCF is, on paper and in the field, the best team in the AAC.
Full American Athletic Conference Standings
West
- Memphis
- Houston
- Tulane
- Southern Methodist
- Navy
- Tulsa
East
- Central Florida
- Cincinnati
- South Florida
- Temple
- East Carolina
- Connecticut