SWAC Football: What to expect from Mississippi Valley State in 2021

Will Jalani Eason and the offense improve?

Portland State transfer quarterback Jalani Eason returns to lead the Mississippi Valley State offense. Eason gets an entire offseason with quarterbacks coach Willie Totten and offensive coordinator Jared Powers.

For an offense that averaged just 13.7 points per game, the only way for the offense to go is up. Eason is the centerpiece of the Delta Devils’ offense, leading the team in passing and rushing. This fall, the senior quarterback needs help in the backfield.

That means more production from running backs Caleb Johnson and Darius Williams. It is not going to matter much if the offensive line does not play better. The offensive staff has options to fill out their line, but they have to play better in the trenches.

The wide receivers have good size and talent. With an entire offseason to work with the offensive staff, it will be interesting to see if the receivers can get downfield this fall. The passing game averaged a meager 4.2 yards per attempt.

If the team is to take a step forward this fall, the offense needs to take a step forward. Eason needs to improve in leading the offense. The offensive line needs to improve, and that will help the offense take to improve this fall.