As the football season approaches, excitement is building around the Northern Arizona University (NAU) Lumberjacks. Recently, the team secured the No. 19 spot in the HERO Sports FCS Preseason Top 25 Media Poll, a significant recognition as they gear up for their upcoming season. With less than 100 days until kickoff, the Lumberjacks are eager to demonstrate their potential on the field.
The Lumberjacks are part of a competitive Big Sky Conference, where they will face off against several ranked teams this season. The poll includes five other conference teams: Montana State at No. 2, Montana at No. 7, Idaho at No. 10, UC Davis at No. 11, and Sacramento State at No. 12. NAU will take on three of these rivals during the season, including crucial home games against Montana State on October 4 and Idaho on October 31, as well as a road match against UC Davis on October 11.
In addition to their favorable ranking, the Lumberjacks are also motivated by their recent performance. After a hiatus from the postseason, NAU made a strong return last year under head coach Brian Wright, who is entering his second year with the program. The team concluded the previous season with an overall record of 8-4 and a commendable 6-2 in conference play. The Lumberjacks not only clinched a spot in the FCS playoffs but also achieved an impressive five-game winning streak towards the end of the season, the longest since 2017.
The team’s home performance has been particularly notable, as they recorded an undefeated home record of 5-0, marking only the third time in its history that they accomplished this feat. The atmosphere created by fans and the home-field advantage play a crucial role in their success, and the Lumberjacks aim to capitalize on this momentum in the upcoming season.
Looking ahead, NAU will kick off its season on August 30 against Arizona State, providing a significant opportunity to set the tone for the year. As they prepare for the challenges ahead, the coaching staff and players are focused on building upon the foundation set last season and enhancing their overall performance.
In the FCS landscape, the defending national champions, North Dakota State, topped the HERO Sports rankings, receiving four first-place votes. While the Lumberjacks remain aware of the challenges that accompany competing against highly ranked teams, they are optimistic about their series of game opportunities.
The rankings in the HERO Sports FCS Top 25 are compiled using a collaborative process, incorporating insights from various analysts. This method ensures that the rankings are well-rounded and reflective of the teams’ abilities and potential. As NAU continues to strive for excellence, they will remain in focus not only on their own gameplay but also in keeping up with the evolving dynamics of the FCS.
As a community, Lumberjack supporters can take pride in their team’s resurgence and the recognition that comes with it. The upcoming season presents a chance for the Lumberjacks to solidify their position in the national conversation and potentially surpass expectations.
In summary, the Northern Arizona Lumberjacks’ ranking at No. 19 in the HERO Sports FCS Preseason Top 25 sends a clear signal of their competitiveness and readiness for the season ahead. With strategic matchups, the leadership of Coach Wright, and a roster eager to prove themselves, the Lumberjacks are ready to showcase their talent and dedication on the field. Fans are encouraged to stay tuned as anticipation builds for what promises to be an exciting season of football.
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