3. Ben Cunningham worth more than ever.

Cunningham, a rising junior, will be MTSU's No. 1 running back and an offensive leader this year, but will that take away from his other duties? Cunningham led the team in both special teams tackles and coaches' winning grades last season while ranking third in all-purpose yards as a runner, receiver and kick returner.

Already the best blocker among the running backs and expected to be a vocal leader, Cunningham may be asked to do it all next season. His leadership is apparent in spring practice. If coaches could clone Cunningham, they would do it.