SPORTS
Wildcat Football Picked to Finish 5th in Pioneer League
Coach Scott Abell surrounded by members of the Davidson Football team.
SAINT LOUIS – Football was tabbed to finish fifth in the Pioneer Football League Preseason Coaches Poll, announced by the PFL Tuesday.
Davidson earned 48 points, four behind fourth placed Marist (52) and four ahead of Stetson (44). Reigning league champion San Diego earned the top spot, landing 79 points and seven first-place votes. Dayton and Drake were separated by a single point to round out the top three places, garnering 65 and 64 points, respectively.
“I have very few thoughts on being picked fifth in the preseason poll,” said head coach Scott Abell. “Our complete focus as we begin camp will be on improving each and every day. We cannot afford to look or focus on anything other than today’s task and challenges. We are excited about the beginning of camp and look forward to day one, practice one.”
The Wildcats are fresh off their first winning season since 2007 after going 6-5 in 2018. Davidson finished sixth in the PFL with a 3-5 mark in conference clashes.
The ‘Cats return 14 starters from last season’s squad, seven on each side of the ball. Three were named to the Preseason All-PFL team – junior running back Wesley Dugger senior offensive lineman Ethan and senior defensive tackle Bryce Perry-Martin. Dugger was also selected to the HERO Sports Preseason All-America Team as one of the top returning backs in the FCS.
Davidson opens 2019 camp Saturday, Aug. 3 at 9 a.m. at Richardson Stadium. The practice is open to the public.
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2019 PFL Coaches Poll
- San Diego (79, 7 1st)
- Dayton (65, 2)
- Drake (64, 1)
- Marist (52)
- Davidson (48)
- Stetson (44)
- Butler (37)
- Jacksonville (30)
- Morehead State (15)
Valparaiso (15)