Here are our preseason Big South Football Power Rankings which we will update each week during the season.

1. Liberty

Under 2nd year head coach Turner Gill, Liberty looks to make the playoffs for the first time in school history.

2. Coastal Carolina

The Chanticleers have to replace Aramis Hillary, and must travel to Lynchburg to take on the Flames where they have not won since 2005. Matt Hazel and Quinn Backus lead a talented roster.

3. Charleston Southern

The Buccaneers return plenty of playmakers in 2013 including quarterback Malcolm Dixon, running back Teddy Allen, and receiver Larry Jones, III. Look for CSU to make a push at Liberty and Coastal.

4. VMI

The Keydets will look to improve off a 2-9 season in 2012, and return most of their playmakers on offense including quarterback Eric Kordenbrock. Safety Adam Morgan looks to lead an improved defense.

5. Gardner Webb

The Runnin’ Bulldogs will be guided under first year head coach Carroll McCray after 2012 ended in a disappointing 3-8 finish.

6. Presbyterian

Has Presbyterian finally decided on a quarterback? Kaleb Griffin and Tamyn Garrick split time in 2012. Linebackers Donelle Williams and L.J. Perry look to repeat as all-conference performers.

The conference is clearly a 2 horse race between Coastal and Liberty. We give the Flames the edge due to not having to break in a new quarterback, and given that they get Coastal inside Williams Stadium in what will likely be the de facto Big South Championship Game on October 19th.