UConn Football: Season preview, prediction for 2019

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SYRACUSE, NY – SEPTEMBER 22: Kevin Mensah #34 of the Connecticut Huskies runs with the ball as Antwan Cordy #8 of the Syracuse Orange makes a diving tackle attempt during the second quarter at the Carrier Dome on September 22, 2018 in Syracuse, New York. (Photo by Rich Barnes/Getty Images) /

Offense

There were some positives on the offensive side of the ball for UConn in 2018. Kevin Mensah rushed for 1,045 yards and the Huskies ranked 37th nationally in rushing offense. Now with Toldeo transfer Art Thompkins serving as a change-of-pace back, the running game has a 1-2 punch that could be effective this season.

Those backs will be running behind an experienced offensive line. Four starters return from a year ago, including senior Matt Peart at right tackle. Junior Nino Leone will anchor the line at center. Christian Haynes, a freshman, is the new face at left guard.

Marvin Washington is the favorite to win the starting job at quarterback. He saw limited action in 2018, and took first team snaps in the spring. Redshirt Steven Krajewski and transfer Mike Beaudry are in the mix as well.

For a team that ranked 108th in passing offense last season, change at the quarterback position is welcome.

If the Husky defense is anywhere near as poor as it was in 2018, it will once again be the offense, now headed by coordinator Frank Giufre, that must shoulder the load in Storrs.

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