AAC Spring Practice: Biggest Questions for Each Team

Nov 13, 2014; Cincinnati, OH, USA; East Carolina Pirates quarterback Shane Carden (5) looks to pass during the first half against Cincinnati Bearcats at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

East Carolina Pirates

Biggest Question: Who can step up to replace Shane Carden, Justin Hardy, Cam Worthy, and Breon Allen?

It can’t get much more difficult for the East Carolina Pirates. They entered the AAC at the perfect time with a superstar mid-major quarterback and a superstar mid-major receiver, both of whom are gone. Shane Carden threw for 4,736 yards and 30 touchdowns with only 10 interceptions, while Justin Hardy had 121 receptions for 1,494 yards and 10 touchdowns.

The production from both players has to be replaced, and that makes spring practice incredibly crucial for the Pirates. If things could get worse, it’s also worth noting that Cam Worthy, the No. 2 receiver who had 1,494 yards and 10 touchdowns also has to be replaced, and Breon Allen, the school’s leading rusher, is gone as well.

Wide receiver Isaiah Johnson appears poised to take over as the top skill player this year, but he needs to prove it with a good spring. Trevon Brown, Davon Grayson, and Jimmy Williams all also will be in a fight to show what they can do this spring, as there are other receiver spots open also.

At quarterback, Kurt Benkert is the leader of the group, but there are other guys on the roster to replace Carden, and the competition is open. That makes this spring huge as the Pirates find a new starter to lead the offense. Finding one before the Fall would be a huge deal.

Next: Houston Cougars Spring Practice