Coach: Marcos Hinojos Sr. (2nd season). Starters returning O/D: 8/7. 2023: 2-8, 1-7 SAC

There’s no substitute for age in college football. A player’s body at age 18 is much different at age 22. Marcos Hinojos Sr. believes his program is one year from turning the corner and being led by upperclassmen. He also thinks the best addition for the Pioneers heading into the 2024 campaign is the new offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Bryan Wood.

“In the short time he’s been here, he’s instilled more confidence in our guys than I’ve ever seen here,” Hinojos said. “His energy level is off the charts. We’re close to the same age, and sometimes I need an energy drink before I practice, but he doesn’t. His energy level is high, and the kids absorb it.”

Hinojos believes WBU is two quality offensive tackles and one defensive tackle away from producing the program’s first winning season since 2016.