Despite all the history of Marshall football, things have not gone according to plan since joining Conference USA. The team has not even advanced to the conference championship game, let alone won a title since moving from the Mid-American Conference. If Rakeem Cato and his crazy fantasy football numbers can lead the offense, the 2013 season could be a special one for the Thundering Herd.
As just a sophomore, Cato exploded for outstanding fantasy football numbers to lead the offense. With 4201 passing yards and 37 touchdowns a season ago, he should have an even better season if he can stay healthy in 2013.
Part of the reason Cato has been able to improve so quickly at the NCAA level is that he has transformed his body to take the weekly wear and tear. The power schools overlooked the high school standout from Miami because he weighed about 150 pounds as a senior. He has bulked up and added about 40 pounds since high school. He is still as athletic as ever, but it has helped keep him durable for a club that relies on him so much.
However, if Marshall is going to compete for a conference championship, they need to give him help as well. Doc Holliday’s club has a pretty strong returning defense with seven starters back, and the schedule works out well for them as well. Tulsa on the road is their toughest test in Conference USA, but other than that they have to like the way things stack up for them.
Controlling the ball will be a big key for Marshall’s success, and if there is a knock on Cato, it comes down to turnover issues. He made three 11 picks last season, and many of them proved to be costly. If he can make slight improvements this season, he could even garner some quiet Heisman Trophy hype. At the very least, Cato should solidify his spot in the history of Marshall football by helping them contend for their first ever Conference USA crown.
