As I sit down to analyze what we can expect from Austin Peay State University football in the coming season and beyond, I can’t help but reflect on how much this program has meant to me over the years. I’ve followed APSU football closely, from the lean years to the recent resurgence under Coach Scotty Walden, and I genuinely believe we’re on the cusp of something special. But let’s be real—speculation and rumors can sometimes overshadow actual progress. I’m reminded of a quote I came across recently, though from an entirely different context: “Hindi naman siya totoo. Tsismis lang ‘yun.” In English, that’s, “It’s not true. That’s just gossip.” It’s a sentiment that resonates deeply when you look at how fans and analysts sometimes jump to conclusions based on hearsay rather than hard evidence. That’s why I want to cut through the noise and give you my take, grounded in what I’ve observed and the data we have at hand.

First off, let’s talk about the immediate season ahead. The Governors are coming off a 2022 campaign where they finished 7-4 overall and 3-2 in the ASUN Conference, which, in my opinion, was a solid step forward. I’ve crunched the numbers, and while they might not be eye-popping, they tell a story of growth. For instance, the offense averaged around 28 points per game last year, and with key players like quarterback Mike DiLiello returning, I’d bet we see that climb to the low 30s this season. DiLiello, in particular, has shown flashes of brilliance—he threw for over 2,500 yards and 20 touchdowns last year, and if he cuts down on interceptions, which I think he will, this offense could be explosive. But it’s not just about the stats; it’s about the culture. Under Coach Walden, I’ve noticed a shift in mentality. The team plays with a grit and resilience that wasn’t always there a few years ago. I remember watching them pull off a close win against Eastern Kentucky last season, and it felt like a turning point—they didn’t just rely on talent; they outworked their opponents. That kind of intangible factor is huge, and it’s why I’m optimistic about their chances to contend for the ASUN title this year. Sure, there are skeptics who say the schedule is tougher, with games like the opener against a Power Five opponent, but I see that as an opportunity. If they can keep it competitive, it’ll build momentum for the conference slate.

Looking beyond this season, the long-term outlook for APSU football is where things get really exciting, in my view. Recruiting has been on an upward trajectory, and I’ve heard from insiders that the 2024 class could be one of the best in recent memory. We’re talking about potential impact players, like a 3-star linebacker from Tennessee who’s reportedly leaning toward committing to the Govs. Now, I know recruiting rankings aren’t everything—sometimes those “can’t-miss” prospects fizzle out, and that’s where the “tsismis” or gossip comes into play. People love to speculate about who’s signing or transferring, but as that quote suggests, not all of it holds water. From what I’ve seen, the coaching staff is focusing on building depth, especially in the trenches. They’ve added size to the offensive line, with an average weight increase of about 15 pounds across the board, which should pay dividends in controlling the clock and protecting the quarterback. Off the field, the university’s investment in facilities is another reason for optimism. The new weight room upgrades, completed just last year, are already attracting attention, and I wouldn’t be surprised if we see a bump in player development over the next couple of seasons. Personally, I think APSU is positioning itself to make a run at the FCS playoffs consistently by 2025. It might sound ambitious, but if they can avoid the injury bug and continue to develop talent, I see them winning 8-9 games a year in the near future.

Of course, no analysis is complete without addressing the challenges. The ASUN is becoming more competitive, with teams like Kennesaw State and Jacksonville State (before their move to FBS) setting high bars. Defensively, the Govs gave up an average of 24 points per game last season, and while that’s respectable, it needs to improve if they want to win championships. I’ve watched film from spring practices, and the secondary looks faster, but they’ll need to generate more turnovers—maybe 15-20 interceptions this season compared to last year’s 12. Another area I’m keeping an eye on is special teams; they had a few costly misses in field goals, and shoring that up could be the difference in close games. From a broader perspective, the transfer portal is a double-edged sword. It’s great for adding experienced players, but it also means you might lose key contributors. I’ve heard rumors—again, that “tsismis”—about potential departures, but based on my conversations, the core group seems committed. Still, it’s something to monitor, as roster stability will be crucial for long-term success.

Wrapping this up, I’m genuinely excited about the direction of APSU football. This isn’t just blind fandom; it’s based on trends I’ve tracked and the palpable energy around the program. In the short term, I predict a 8-3 record this season, with a strong shot at the ASUN championship game. Long term, by 2026, I wouldn’t be shocked if they’re regularly in the FCS playoff conversation, maybe even making a deep run. But as we navigate all the hype, let’s remember to separate fact from fiction. Just like that quote reminds us, not every rumor is worth buying into. Instead, focus on the tangible progress—the player development, the coaching strategies, and the institutional support. I’ll be in the stands this fall, cheering them on, and I invite you to join me in watching this journey unfold. It’s going to be a fun ride.