TROY, Ala. (AP) -- The Troy Trojans are hoping for better defense and a rebound season.

The Trojans had their string of five straight Sun Belt Conference titles snapped with a 3-9 season in 2011. They return 16 starters and imported a number of transfers to help the nation's 113th-rated defense.

Quarterback Corey Robinson is the only junior among the NCAA's top 10 active passers, ranking seventh. He's closing in on several Sun Belt career marks and has standout receivers in Eric Thomas and Chip Reeves.

The biggest offseason emphasis was on defense. The Trojans have a number of transfers in the secondary and on the defensive front. The league's top tackler, safety Brynden Trawick, returns.

The Trojans also host their first Southeastern Conference team when Mississippi State visits on Sept. 15.