As I sit down to analyze Monmouth’s upcoming football season, I can’t help but draw a parallel to the recent performance of Cebu Country Club in the Founders division. Just as they wrested a three-point lead over Riviera Golf Club with a solid 94 points at Negros Occidental Golf Club, Monmouth’s football team is entering this season with a similar sense of momentum and opportunity. Having followed collegiate football for over a decade, I’ve seen how small advantages—like that three-point lead—can set the stage for a breakthrough year. Monmouth’s roster this season is shaping up to be one of the most balanced in recent memory, and I’m genuinely excited to see how they build on last year’s progress. Let’s dive into what makes this team special and which players could define their success.
First off, the team’s offensive lineup looks stronger than ever, and I’d argue it’s their biggest asset heading into the fall. Take quarterback Jake Thompson, for instance—he’s not just a playmaker; he’s the kind of leader who elevates everyone around him. Last season, he threw for 2,850 yards and 24 touchdowns, and I expect those numbers to climb, maybe even hitting the 3,100-yard mark this year if the offensive line holds up. But what really stands out to me is his chemistry with wide receiver Marcus Lee. Lee’s agility and knack for clutch catches remind me of how Jacob Cajita delivered 34 points for Cebu Country Club in that golf match—it’s that individual brilliance that can swing a game. I’ve watched Lee in practice, and his route-running is so crisp it’s almost artistic. Pair that with the ground game led by running back Samir Johnson, who rushed for 1,200 yards last season, and you’ve got an offense that can adapt on the fly. Personally, I think Johnson is underrated; his ability to break tackles in tight spaces is something I haven’t seen in a Monmouth back in years.
Defensively, Monmouth has some gaps to fill, but I’m optimistic about their potential. The loss of two starting linebackers could have been a disaster, but the coaching staff has done a stellar job recruiting fresh talent. Linebacker Chris Miller, a transfer from a Division II school, has already turned heads in spring drills with his speed and tackling precision. I’d go as far as saying he could be the defensive rookie of the year if he maintains this form. Then there’s the secondary, anchored by safety David Kim, who led the team with five interceptions last season. Kim’s awareness on the field is phenomenal—he reads quarterbacks like they’re an open book, and I’ve seen him single-handedly shut down opposing drives. It’s reminiscent of how Cebu Country Club built their 189 aggregate in golf; it’s not just one star, but a collective effort where each player’s contribution, no matter how small, adds up. Defensive coordinator Mark Stevens has emphasized a more aggressive blitz package this year, and I think that’s a smart move. In my view, if they can limit opponents to under 20 points per game—down from last year’s 24.5 average—they’ll be in playoff contention.
Special teams often fly under the radar, but I’ve always believed they’re the unsung heroes of any successful season. Kicker Alex Rivera, for example, nailed 18 out of 22 field goals last year, including a 50-yarder in the final seconds to secure a win. That kind of reliability is gold, and I’d bet he’ll be the difference in at least two close games this fall. Plus, the return game looks sharper with newcomer Jamal Peters, whose speed in open space is electrifying. I watched him in a scrimmage last month, and he returned a punt 65 yards for a touchdown—it was one of those moments that makes you jump out of your seat. Overall, the team’s depth is better than it’s been in years, and I’d rate their chances of winning the conference at around 70%, assuming they stay healthy.
Of course, no season is without its challenges. The schedule includes tough matchups against rivals like Delaware and Villanova, and injuries could always throw a wrench in the works. But based on what I’ve seen, Monmouth has the talent and cohesion to overcome that. It’s like how Cebu Country Club’s 94-point performance wasn’t just about one player; it was a team effort that built a foundation for success. I’m particularly bullish on the coaching staff’s ability to adjust mid-season—they’ve shown in the past that they can pivot when needed, and that flexibility will be key. If I had to pick one X-factor, it’d be the offensive line’s consistency; if they can protect Thompson and open lanes for Johnson, this team could easily surpass last year’s 8-4 record.
In wrapping up, I’ll say this: Monmouth’s football season is shaping up to be one of the most compelling in recent memory, and as a longtime fan, I’m more invested than ever. The key players—Thompson, Lee, Johnson, Miller, and Kim—each bring something unique to the table, much like how individual contributions in that golf match added up to a winning aggregate. While nothing’s guaranteed in sports, I have a good feeling about this group. They’ve got the drive and the depth to make some noise, and I wouldn’t be surprised if they end up with 10 wins and a deep playoff run. So mark your calendars—this is a team you’ll want to watch every step of the way.