The Chippewas enter the spring looking to three-peat as champions of the Mid-American Conference, something that hasn't been done in the MAC since Marshall claimed four straight league titles from 1997-2000.

This spring, there is stability in the coaching ranks, which should make for a smooth transition in the new season.

Before last season's spring session, the Chippewas had gone through three head coaches between their appearance in the MAC championship game, the 2006 Motor City Bowl, and the spring.

Coach Brian Kelly bolted for greener pastures at Cincinnati, followed by interim head coach Jeff Quinn after the Chips' Motor City Bowl victory. By the time Butch Jones came on board from West Virginia, he had a lot of ground to make up.

Now, with the Chippewas' coaching staff returning intact, there is consistency at the top of the football program and expectations are clear for the Chips entering 2008.

Central Michigan possessed one of the most explosive offenses in the MAC in 2007, and with most of the top weapons returning, should be well positioned to light up the scoreboard again.

Quarterback Dan LeFevour, the MAC offensive player of the year, and a high-flying group of wide receivers figure to lead one of the most potent offenses in the conference.

Defensively, the Chips will need to show some serious improvement and several players will get a chance to make an impact.

The Chippewas ranked at or near the bottom of the nation in most meaningful defensive statistical categories in 2007 and had to rely on their offense to bail them out in several games.

With two of their three starting linebackers gone from last year (Red Keith and Ike Brown), sophomore Nick Bellore will be looked to for leadership among the new crew, which will include Calvin Hissong potentially moving over from defensive back.

The secondary will get a new look, with junior Josh Gordy the top returning player from 2007. There is plenty of firepower for the Chips to make another championship run in 2008 and if Central Michigan can develop consistency on defense the Chippewas will again be among the favorites in the MAC.

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