The Eastern Kentucky football team has high expectations heading in to the 2019 season.
The Colonels have 16 total starters returning from a season ago, where the team went 7-4 and fell a game short of making the post season.
Head Coach Mark Elder is entering his fourth season with the team, saying this is easily the most talented team he's head since taking over back in 2016.
"There's just a great sense of belief amongst each other and with this team," said Elder at EKU's annual media day on Wednesday. "There's just a different feel than what we've had. Obviously, we've accomplished absolutely nothing. We're 0-0."
His players feel the same way.
On numerous occasions Wednesday, the team emphasized the word 'Family', while also showing enthusiasm for a possibly special season.
"I think it's going to be a really special year," said EKU senior running back Daryl McCleskey Jr. "It's one of those things where a program builds up to this moment where it could be a make or break. I feel like we're on a good track for this to be a very special year for all of us to remember."
Eastern Kentucky hasn't made the post season since 2015, and hasn't won the OVC since 2011.
They are picked to finish 3rd in the OVC this season, behind Jacksonville State and Southeast Missouri.
The Colonels kickoff their 2019 season Thursday, August 29th at 7pm against Valparaiso at Roy Kidd Stadium.
