Grand Valley State has built a dynasty of success in many sports, most especially football.  The Lakers have won four national titles in the past decade and made it deep into the playoffs five other times during that time period.  That said, GVSU hasn’t won the national title in the past three seasons and that trend will more than likely continue this season with a new quarterback and head coach.  Coach Chuck Martin left to join former Coach Brian Kelly’s staff at DI Notre Dame.  He is replaced by his veteran defensive coach Matt Mitchell.

Last season the Lakers rode a veteran quarterback into the title game for the first time in a few years and came up short.  The season started with a win over West Texas A&M before the Lakers showed vulnerability with a 7-point victory vs. Ferris State.  Then, the rare slip up against Hillsdale.  It was the first regular season loss for GVSU since 2004.  They went on to finish strong including avenging the loss to Hillsdale and to Minnesota-Duluth for the previous season’s playoff defeat.

This year the Lakers reload and will be led on offense by first-team All-GLIAC lineman Cameron Bradfield and All-GLIAC honorable mention receivers Ryan Bass and Andrew Lorman.  Bass had 36 catches for 605 yards and 8 touchdowns in 2009.  The defense will be anchored by GLIAC Defensive Lineman of the Year Danny Richard and first-team All-GLIAC linebacker Justin Victor.

They will face two of their tougher opponents at home to begin the season as West Texas A&M from the LSC visits before the GLIAC schedule starts with Hillsdale.  The Lakers should cruise through the next eight GLIAC contests before a regular season finale with arch-rival Saginaw Valley State.

D2 Sports Network predicts the GVSU Lakers to finish 11-3 as GLIAC champions in the quarterfinals of the NCAA playoffs.