According to information from MeKendree, the team has 14 starters and 36 lettermen returning from a team that reeled off seven straight wins and was ranked as high as third in the nation last year in the NAIA.The Bearcats' rushing game finished second in the NAIA ins rushing offense. However, MeKendree needs to replace its all-time leading rusher, Brandon Murphy, and all-purpose back Kyle Roach. They will rely on several season veterans to carry the load, including seniors Allen Walter and Scott Compton, junior Mark Albertini and sophomore Anthony Roland. Walter had 696 yards and six touchdowns last year while Roland averaged 8.4 yards per carry.