Conference USA … It’s a league that’s constantly seeing movement from teams coming in and teams moving out.
Now, it’ll be victim to even more change with player movement courtesy of the almighty transfer portal. Lucky for CUSA, it’s familiar with that type of inconsistency.
This fall will definitely look a little different for the league, and the addition of new, difference-making guys is a big reason why.
Here’s a look at some of them in 10 of the top portal additions in CUSA.
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QB Hank Bachmeier, Boise State to LA Tech
Bachmeier immediately becomes one of the top QBs in the league and should be a QB to watch in the Group of Five this season. After starting 29 games for Boise, he takes over a pass-heavy offense with many weapons. Through four seasons with the Broncos, the senior passed for 6,605 yards and 41 TDs.
DB Keonte Glinton, Wyoming to New Mexico State
A staple in Wyoming’s secondary when healthy, the nickleback only appeared in six games last season. He totaled 26 tackles, four pass breakups, and one fumble recovery during that short stint. He started all 11 games for the Cowboys in 2021 and brings excellent ball skills to the Aggie’s secondary.
CB AJ Odums, New Mexico to UTEP
As a sophomore last season, Odums started in 11 games and finished the season with 48 total tackles, one interception, and four pass breakups for a decent defensive unit. Odums should step into a starting spot right away for the Miners, whose five interceptions ranked last in the league. Hopefully, he can add to that:
RB Malik Jackson, LA-Monroe to Jacksonville State
Jackson’s move to Jax State meant a reunion with head coach Rich Rodriguez, who coached at LA-Monroe in 2021. In that season, the redshirt senior rushed for 451 yards and three scores and started three games. He followed it with a bigger role in 2022, compiling 507 rushing yards and six TDs. He’ll likely split duties with Anwar Lewis but should still be productive.
LB Avery Huff, Miami to FIU
There wasn’t much opportunity provided for Huff during his time in Coral Gables, but there should be chances for him to be a difference-maker for the Panthers. Matched with his size, Huff is a versatile defender that can fly around the field and make plays.
S Myles Heard, Stephen F. Austin to LA Tech
Heard paced the Lumberjacks in tackles the past two seasons with 83 in 2022 and 69 in 2021, and should fill in nicely with the Bulldogs’ defense. His athleticism and experience will allow him to make an easy transition from the FCS.
S Myles Rowser, Campbell to NMSU
There were a handful of Power 5 programs that were reportedly interested in Rowser, but he ultimately chose to play for Jerry Kill. Rowser earned FCS Freshman All-American honors following a season where he logged 44 tackles, one pick, and three PBUs. He should provide a boost to a defense that was solid in 2022.
RB Craig Wiliams, Baylor to LA Tech
The Big 12 product dealt with injuries through much of his early career before rushing for 557 yards and four scores last season. Now in his sixth year, Williams may have to battle with the young LA Tech RBs who showed promise in 2022, but should still carve out a role:
QB Eli Stowers, Texas A&M to NMSU
From the Aggies to the Aggies, Stower is another great get in the portal by Jerry Kill. Stowers will need to compete for the starting spot with Diego Pavia, but his presence should upgrade the play of all QBs. The former tight end didn’t compile any stats in his two seasons with Texas A&M.
WR Dre Spriggs, UTSA to UTEP
There’s a lot of production to be filled in the Miners receiving core, and Spriggs could be one of the guys to fill it. The redshirt sophomore was stuck behind some veterans at UTSA and will have more opportunities to showcase his talent in El Paso.
