Missouri State Bears

First-year head coach Casey Woods takes over a Missouri State program that went to the transfer portal late to fill key spots. The quarterback battle is between Duke transfer Henry Belin IV and UTEP transfer Skyler Locklear, both of whom bring different styles but are expected to fit the new offensive scheme. The Bears also added Tulsa transfer receiver Mekhi Miller and Boise State transfer running back Jambres Dubar to complement returning playmakers. The offense will look different from last year, but the coaching staff has a track record of scheming around available talent, as one opposing CUSA assistant noted.

Jmariyae Robinson returns after leading the team with 44 receptions and seven touchdown catches in 2025, giving the new quarterback a reliable top target. James BlackStrain and Makai Cope are also back, and Mekhi Miller adds another option from the portal. At tight end, Jeron Askren, Dillon Hipp, and James Rexroat give the Bears a deep group that can help in both the passing game and run blocking. This is the most experienced and talented position group on the roster, and it should be the focal point of the offense regardless of who is under center.

The Bears lost significant experience on the offensive line and will rely on transfers Isaiah Villanueva and Sebastian Espinoza to step in alongside returnees Makhete Gueye and Logan Scrivner. Depth is a concern, and the unit's ability to protect Belin or Locklear will determine whether the playmakers can be effective. The schedule opens with road trips to Texas A&M and SMU, which will be a brutal test for a rebuilt front five. If the line holds up, the skill positions should produce; if not, it could be a long season.

Jared Lloyd returns as the centerpiece of the defense after tying for the team lead in tackles in 2025, and head coach Casey Woods has praised his offseason leadership. The edge group is deep with transfers Kellen Lindstrom, Jalile Elliott, and Josh Lukusa joining returnee Caden Wiest, who had two sacks last season. Tim Brantley Jr. anchors the defensive tackle spot, with Iowa State transfer Markell Chapman adding size. The safety duo of Dylan Dixson and Christian Ford combined for 102 tackles last year and are both back, giving the secondary a solid foundation. The cornerback position is less proven, with transfers Joel Kpassou and Joel Boamah expected to start.

Missouri State opens with road games at Texas A&M and SMU, two Power Four opponents that will be heavy favorites. Those games will serve as a measuring stick for how far the new staff and roster have come, but they also risk exposing weaknesses, especially on the offensive line and at cornerback. After that, the Bears begin Conference USA play, where they will face more evenly matched opponents. The early nonconference slate could be demoralizing if the Bears get blown out, but it also gives the coaching staff a chance to evaluate and adjust before the games that matter most for the conference standings.