The team went 6-7 last season, its final defeat coming to San Jose State in its first bowl game, the Cure Bowl in Orlando.

Coach Trent Miles’ squad returns nine starters on defense, six or seven on offense and has a depth that it hasn’t since he took over three seasons ago.

Continuing the position group breakdown.

Wide receivers/tight ends

Who is competing? Senior Robert Davis, sophomore Penny Hart are the notables at wide receiver after all-conference performances last season. Hart led the team in receptions (71), yards (1,099) and touchdowns (8). Davis was second in receptions (61), yards (980) and tied for second in touchdowns (6). Todd Boyd (25/296) is in the mix, as is senior Mattavius Scott, and a slew of freshmen that includes Bryson Duckworth, Eric Elder, Jonathan Ifedi and Matlin Marshall.

Keith Rucker and Ari Werts will compete at tight end. Rucker was all-conference last season after catching 39 passes for 522 yards and six touchdowns. Werts had five receptions for 84 yards.

Key stat? The Panthers had the ninth best passing attack in FBS last season, averaging 335.9 yards per game. Of course, they will be led by a new quarterback this season.

Who has the edge? This is easier than trying to predict the starters at quarterback and running back. Davis, Hart and Rucker will start. Boyd should start. Werts could start if the team elects to use either two tight ends, or to flex him out to create a matchup mismatch.

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