Reports: ETSU Faces Challenging Non-Conference Slate, Transfers From Power 5 programs

GREENVILLE, S.C. — Tre Lamb, the new head coach of East Tennessee State football, aims to surpass expectations after the Bucs were ranked sixth in the Southern Conference preseason coaches poll.

Lamb, in his debut year as ETSU coach, acknowledges the reason behind the ranking, citing back-to-back 3-8 seasons as a significant factor. He sees a lot of potential for growth.

“I think people recognize our talent,” Lamb remarked during the league’s media day at Hotel Hartness. “With transfers from Power 5 programs, 20 coming with me from Gardner-Webb, and a solid group already here, it’s a promising mix. I hope we gel and exceed that sixth-place finish.”

Chattanooga, featuring Preseason Defensive Player of the Year Marlon Taylor, is the favorite with five first-place votes and 61 points. Defending champion Furman received three first-place votes and 56 points, while Western Carolina, led by Preseason Offensive Player of the Year Cole Gonzales, earned the remaining first-place vote and 49 points.

Mercer and Samford were ranked fourth and fifth, respectively, ahead of the Bucs, who had offensive lineman Luke Smith and defensive back Chris Hope as all-conference selections.

“Chris is a leader, a key defensive player,” Lamb said. “He’s vocal and strategic on the field, orchestrating our defense. He had other opportunities but chose to stay, and we’re thrilled to have him.”

ETSU faces a tough non-conference schedule, opening at Appalachian State and hosting nine-time FCS national champion North Dakota State in the third game. Lamb has yet to name a starting quarterback, although Gardner-Webb transfer Jaylen King is a strong contender.

“Jaylen has a great shot at starting, though I don’t want to give App State an edge,” Lamb said. “He’s the frontrunner and has made significant progress. He’s developed as a quarterback and leader.”

Lamb noted that King, despite not being ready to start as a freshman, led Gardner-Webb to five wins by the season’s end, emphasizing that quarterback success is measured by wins.

“In the NFL, it’s about the Super Bowl,” Lamb said. “For us, it’s about winning the conference championship. That’s Jaylen’s goal.”

With most players on campus for summer school, the team has focused on learning new offensive and defensive schemes through extensive video sessions. Lamb expects a much-improved defense with new talent on the line and a faster, more agile secondary. Offensively, quarterbacks and receivers have been working on their timing.

Lamb, 34, brings youthful energy to the program, joking about being one of the youngest coaches in the league.

“I think only Coach Maurice Drayton (The Citadel) and I didn’t need reading glasses in the head coaches’ meeting,” Lamb quipped. “This is a competitive conference, and any team can win on any given Saturday.”

MOCS FAVORED

Chattanooga is slightly favored over Furman, with both teams having won playoff games in 2023. Coming off an 8-5 season, Chattanooga returns key players, including senior quarterback Chase Artopoeus, a UCLA transfer.

The Mocs also feature standout defensive player Marlon Taylor and impact transfers B.J. Ragland and Isaiah Harvey.

“We’re lucky with the talent we have, both new and returning,” Chattanooga coach Rusty Wright said. “Maintaining talent is as crucial as acquiring it, especially with players like Marlon Taylor who could play for any G5 team.”

Wright emphasized the importance of strong offensive and defensive lines and embraced the role of league favorite.

“We have the potential for a strong season,” Wright said. “Beating Furman is the first step. I’m confident in our team. With our returning quarterback and hardworking players, we have a real shot at winning the conference.”