Pacific at Western Illinois

Western Illinois enjoyed two straight years in the postseason, but took graduation hits last year and finished 10-20 and at the bottom of the Summit Conference Standings. Billy Wright, a former WIU assistant, takes over as head coach this season. Wright has good insight on most of the roster, having been here two years ago, and should be a step up in that respect. This has always been a tough minded, defensive-oriented team, so look for the Leathernecks to get after it again on the defensive end. Pacific once enjoyed a succession of great teams, winning 20 games or more on a regular basis. Pacific finished just 18-16 last year, but were subpar within the conference at 6-12. They will really struggle this season as they have lost just about 80% of their scoring from a team that averaged just 73 points per game to begin with. The answers may come later in the season, but not in the opener. Play on Western Illinois.