Menlo College has been out on the edge of the NAIA world since it re-affiliated in 2009.  Because of that distance, the Oaks continually have a difficult schedule to deal with.  This year is no exception for new head coach Mark Greib, who spent the better part of a decade quarterbacking in the Arena League.  But in his first outing as a collegiate head coach, he faces a rugged opener with #12 ranked Carroll.  Several NCAA D-II schools dot the slate as wells as #5 ranked Wesley of NCAA D-III. 

Offensively, look for the Oaks to search for a QB first after losing 2012 starter Matthias Pelesasa to graduation.  Whoever wins the battle to replace Pelesasa will have WR Michael Anderson back.  Anderson accounted for 10 scores last fall.  The O-line will be young, but Jackson Dallas 6-4 285 and Bryce Howard 6-5 260 should be able to produce a run game headed by Thomas Reynolds (5.6 ypc). 

Key returners on defense for the Oaks will be senior DL Angel Jimenez 6-3 200 and LB Jaden Roselli 6-2 220 who played as a freshman in 2012.  For additional help on defense, Coach Greib brought in several freshmen on the D-line: John Vis 6-2 245, Dylan Power 6-5 215 and Austin Holt 6-2 245.  The learning curve with a new coach might help the youngsters see the field earlier than normal.