The Buffalo Bulls showed a lot of positives in 2017 that they hope to carry in 2018. Wins against FAU and Ohio showed that they contend with good teams when they are healthy. They have some stars to lead both sides of the ball. Let’s take a peek at what the Bulls have to look forward to in 2018.

Buffalo Bulls

Head Coach: Lance Leipold (fourth season, 13-23 (8-16) at Buffalo; 109-6 at DIII Wisconsin-Whitewater in eight seasons prior to hiring)

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Offensive Coordinator: Andy Kotelnicki

Defensive Coordinator: Brian Borland

2018 Schedule

• Sept 1^st Delaware State
• Sept 8^th @ Temple
• Sept 15^th Eastern Michigan
• Sept 22^nd @ Rutgers
• Sept 29^th Army
• Oct 6^th @ Central Michigan
• Oct 13^th Akron
• Oct 20^th @ Toledo
• Oct 30^th Miami Ohio
• Nov 6^th Kent State
• Nov 14^th @ Ohio
• Nov 23^rd @ Bowling Green

2017 Record and Team Stats

The Bulls finished with a 6-6 record and a 4-4 record in the MAC East. The Bulls did achieve bowl eligibility but did not get invited to a bowl game. This was only the third time in program history that the Bulls received bowl eligibility.

Offense

Scoring: 28.5 points per game, Total Yards: 431.9, Rushing Yards: 141.1, Passing Yards: 290.8

Defense

Scoring: 24.8 points per game, Total Yards: 399.8, Rushing Yards: 194.8, Passing Yards: 205.0

Notable Players

Tyree Jackson, Jr. Quarterback: This big 6’7” gunslinger played great in the eight games he started in 2017. An injury kept him sidelined for four games, where the Bulls went 1-3. When Jackson returned from injury, his last four games he threw for 1,363 yards, 9 touchdowns, and only two interceptions. Jackson is still young, but expect a solid year from the junior.

Anthony Johnson, Sr. Wide Receiver: Returning for his senior year is Jackson’s favorite target, Anthony Johnson. The South Carolina native finished sixth in receiving in the NCAA with 1356 yards. Johnson also pulled in 14 touchdowns and 78 catches. He is arguably the best offensive player in the MAC and could make a lot of noise around the nation as well.

Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images

Khalil Hodge, Sr. Linebacker: Hodge was named to All-MAC First Team and finished second in the country in tackles with 154. He has already been named to the preseason watch list for the Chuck Bednarik Award for 2018. The Stockton, California born linebacker has quick speed off the snap, can cover and pass rush well and has outstanding football IQ. Hodge has the ability to be the best linebacker in the country.

Tatum Slack, Sr. Cornerback: The defensive leader of the Bulls, Khalil Hodge, believes Tatum Slack is the most underrated player on his team. Slack had 29 tackles, 9 pass defends, and one forced fumble in 2017. Slack is a great cover corner and should have a great year.

Overview

The Bulls exceeded expectations in 2017. With their schedule, they have the ability to do even better this season. With one of the most exciting offensive players in the MAC and probably the best defensive in the MAC, they have the ability to contend with great teams. They had one of the best offenses in the MAC last season and with a healthy Tyree Jackson all year, it could be even better. Consistency on defense will have to be where the Bulls improve from last season. Expect big things from Buffalo in 2018.