After going 11-2 and making it the NAIA Quarterfinals for the second consecutive season, the Wildcats were a disappointing 4-6 last year. The defense should be the strength of the team this year as the offense has had a makeover.

The Cougars also had an off year by their standards last season with a 7-4 record. Saint Xavier qualified for the NAIA playoffs in 2002, 2005, 2006, & 2007. In 2006, they reached the Semi-Finalists by knocking off perennial power Carroll College (Mont.). They reached the Quarter-Finals in 2007. Last season the Cougars were stingy against the run, allowing only 75.8/yards per game, fifth in the NAIA. They are a pass first team ranking 10^th in the NAIA in offense (438.9/ypg) and 11^th in passing (281.5/ypg). Because of their propensity to pass, they do post a high point total, 20^th in the NAIA at 32.2/ppg.

The Cougars have an outstanding linebacker, senior Mike Lally (Oak Lawn, Ill./St. Rita). He was one of just six NAIA football players nationwide named to the College Fanz Sports Network 2009 NAIA Football Super Six. The list highlights the top six players in the country looking to lead their respective teams in the upcoming 2009 campaign. During the 11 games of the 2008 season, Lally led the Cougar defense with 104 total tackles, including 67 solo stops. He also finished with team-bests of 24 tackles for losses, eight sacks and seven quarterback hurries. Lally's 24 tackles for losses in 2008 set a new single season mark at Saint Xavier.