NCAA Football Simulation Dynasty: 2007 and Beyond

[kblu54]

Michigan looking for return trip to Rose Bowl, possibly BCS title
Big Ten News

The Michigan Wolverines enter the season as one of the nation's top squads, ranked #2 in the Preseason Coaches Poll and the unanimous pick to win the Big Ten. The Wolverines have a great group of players, but they will need to hold off legit contenders like #7 Wisconsin, #17 Penn State and rival #12 Ohio State.

Let's take a look at the 2007-08 Big Ten teams, in order by predicted finish.

1) Michigan Wolverines (#2)

Last Season Record: 11-2 (7-1 Big Ten)
Postseason Result: Lost 32-18 to USC in Rose Bowl

Impact Players
RB Mike Hart [SR]
OLB Shawn Crable [SR]
WR Mario Manningham [JR]

Offense (A+)
The Michigan offense looks to be just unstoppable. They seem to have it all --- top-notch QB (senior Chad Henne), a dominant tailback (Hart), a go-to receiver (Manningham) and probably the best left tackle in the nation (senior Jake Long). And that's only 4 of 11 starters! Michigan's offense is good. Period.

Defense (A-)
The Michigan defense is also solid, with Crable, Preseason 1st Team All-American senior DE Tim Jamison and a hellacious secondary leading the way. They do have a few weak spots (MLB, freshman starter at DT) but for the most part they look pretty solid.

Special Teams (A-)
Sophomore Zoltan Mesko is one of the nation's best punters --- and he's only a sophomore.

Overall (A+)
You don't have to look far to find one of the nation's best teams --- just look for the maize and blue. This Michigan team is very good.

2) Wisconsin Badgers (#7)

Last Season Record: 12-1 (7-1)
Postseason Result: Won 17-14 over Arkansas in Capital One Bowl

Impact Players
CB Jack Ikegwuonu [JR]
RB P.J. Hill [SO]
OLB Jonathan Casillas [JR]

Offense (B+)
The Badgers have a solid offensive line and a bruising RB in Hill, but their success and shot at the Big Ten title rests on the shoulders of senior QB Tyler Donovan. Wisconsin will run the ball a ton, but it will be the results of the passing game that will determine how far they go. Donovan should have faith that he has junior TE Travis Beckum, one of the nation's best, to throw to.

Defense (B)
The Badgers defense is solid but in reality they seem really young. Second-year head coach Bret Bielema, a defensive-minded playcaller, boosted the Badgers' to their first 12-win season last year with a tenacious defensive strategy. Wisconsin will need to get their young guys (3 sophomore starters) in shape to compete. CB Ikegwuonu leads a solid secondary, while OLB Casillas and junior DE Matt Shaughnessy will keep the Badgers tough up front.

Special Teams (A+)
Seniors Taylor Mehlhaff (kicker) and Ken DeBauche (punter) form one of the best kicking units in the nation.

Overall (A-)
The Badgers will face a tough road, but if they can get good play from their youngsters and their passing game, they will be a serious threat to Michigan.

3) Ohio State Buckeyes (#12)

Last Season Record: 12-1 (8-0) *Big Ten Champions*
Postseason Result: Lost 41-14 to Florida in BCS National Championship

Impact Players
MLB James Laurinaitis [JR]
CB Malcolm Jenkins [JR]
RB Chris "Beanie" Wells [SO]

Offense (B+)
Ohio State and Heisman Trophy winner QB Troy Smith failed to bring home the BCS National Title last season, but the Buckeyes will get another shot this year with junior QB Todd Boeckman at the helm. Boeckman isn't a dual-threat guy like Smith was, but he is a solid pocket passer and will be a great complement to RB Wells, who has already established himself as one of the nation's best tailbacks. The Buckeyes also boast a tough and experienced offensive line.

Defense (A-)
The offense should have no worries when they are off the field, because Ohio State's defense is just plain awesome. Tons of excellent starters fill up the D, giving them a balanced look. And look at this intriguing fact --- the Buckeyes only have 1 senior starter! MLB Laurinaitis, the son of a former pro wrestler, and CB Jenkins are two of the best at their positions.

Special Teams (A+)
Sophomore kicker Aaron Pettrey will really be a useful tool for the Buckeye offense.

Overall (A)
Ohio State has all the tools to challenge both Wisconsin and hated rival Michigan. Whether they will or not needs to be seen.

4) Penn State Nittany Lions (#17)

Last Season Record: 9-4 (5-3)
Postseason Result: Won 20-10 over Tennessee in Outback Bowl

Impact Players
OLB Dan Connor [SR]
CB Justin King [JR]
WR Derrick Williams [JR]

Offense (B+)
Penn State seems really balanced on offense, with both a solid run game and a respectable passing attack. Their main weapons will be their great collection of WRs, led by Williams. Senior QB Anthony Morelli should have no trouble finding a playmaker when he throws it, but he needs to stay upright behind a possibly inexperienced offensive line.

Defense (B+)
Linebacker U still lives up to its reputation, as the Nittany Lions boast several top LB starters like Connor. The defensive line is talented but young, and the secondary has solid corners but some iffy safeties. As a group they will be solid but may not be able to stop the offenses of the Big Ten's top contenders.

Special Teams (A-)
Not a bad group of kickers, and WR Williams will also be an exciting return man.

Overall (B+)
Penn State should be a solid player in the Big Ten and this prediction to finish 4th seems justified. They will definately be a contender next season.

5) Iowa Hawkeyes (#41)

Last Season Record: 6-7 (2-6)
Postseason Result: Lost 26-24 to Texas in Alamo Bowl

Impact Players
DT Mitch King [JR]
MLB Mike Klinkenborg [SR]
RB Albert Young [SR]

Offense (B+)
The Hawkeyes will be an interesting team to watch this season, as their offense has a ton of talent but also a ton of inexperience. They will be paced by their 2 senior RBs in Young and Damian Sims, but the rest of the offense is young. The hard knocks they take this year will go a long way in the future.

Defense (B+)
Who better to support a young offense than a very experienced and ferocious front seven? Four out of Iowa's front 7 starters are seniors with a ton of talent. Their cornerbacks also look good, but two freshman starters at the safety spots could be a concern. Still, Klinkenborg and senior DEs Bryan Mattison and Kenny Iwebema may take the pressure off by keeping the opposing QB on his back.

Special Teams (B+)
This rating for the Iowa kickers is way too high --- it must be for their return game or kickoff coverage or something.

Overall (B)
Iowa is very similar to Penn State and Ohio State in experience and talent. They need to really step it up and pull some upsets along the way to break into the conference's top tier.

6) Purdue Boilermakers (#45)

Last Season Record: 8-6 (5-3)
Postseason Result: Lost 24-7 to Maryland in Champs Sports Bowl

Impact Players
WR Dorien Bryant [SR]
SS Torri Williams [JR]
RB Kory Sheets [JR]

Offense (A-)
Purdue is kind of a sleeper pick in the Big Ten this year mainly due to their outstanding offense. Junior QB Curtis Painter leads an explosive passing attack, in which he will hit talented receivers like WR Bryant and senior TE Dustin Keller. He should stay off his back thanks to the protection of junior OT Sean Sester and senior OG Jordan Grimes, and RB Sheets provides a much-needed running boost.

Defense (C+)
The reason why Purdue isn't a very popular pick in the Big Ten is due to their mediocre defense. SS Williams is good, but the defense in front of him looks weak.

Special Teams (A-)
Senior punter Jared Armstrong is solid, but sophomore kicker Chris Summers needs a lot of work.

Overall (B)
Unless Purdue can consistently win 60-50 shootouts, they won't break into the top half of the conference.

7) Minnesota Gophers (#50)

Last Season Record: 6-7 (3-5)
Postseason Result: Lost 44-41 to Texas Tech in Insight Bowl

Impact Players
RB Amir Pinnix [SR]
FS Dominique Barber [SR]
WR Ernie Wheelwright [SR]

Offense (B)
The mixture of good and mediocre talent does not spell success for the Gophers. RB Pinnix and WR Wheelwright are good playmakers, but the others around them are shaky at best. Minnesota will also turn to redshirt freshman Adam Weber at QB, which may or may not be a good choice. Senior center Tony Brinkhaus is the lone bright spot on a shaky o-line.

Defense (B-)
The Minnesota defense doesn't look that bad but it pales in comparison to the Big Ten's heavyweights. FS Barber will do his best in centerfield to prevent the deep ball, but in a conference that focuses on the run game, his efforts might be in vain.

Special Teams (B+)
Nothing too special to write home about here.

Overall (B)
Another bowl game is a definite possibility for the Gophers. A Big Ten championship? No freaking way.

8) Illinois Fighting Illini (#54)

Last Season Record: 2-10 (1-7)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Impact Players
OLB J Leman [SR]
RB Rashard Mendenhall [JR]
QB Isaiah "Juice" Williams [SO]

Offense (B)
The Illinois backfield looks to be exciting, as dual-threat QB Williams and speedy RB Mendenhall give them two home run hitters. The offensive line doesn't look bad and the receivers are pretty solid, so they may produce a ton of points.

Defense (B-)
The defense seems okay, but really they probably won't get enough stops to put them into the top half of the conference. OLB Leman is a beast and they seem to have a ton of experience, but how far will it take them? The corners seem young, but sophomore Vontae Davis is an NFL prospect already.

Special Teams (B+)
Kickers kick, punters punt. What more do you want?

Overall (B)
Illinois should do much better than last year's poor 2-10 finish. But then again, 5 wins is much better than 2, but it still doesn't send you to a bowl.

9) Michigan State Spartans (#59)

Last Season Record: 4-8 (1-7)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Impact Players
SS Nehemiah Warrick [SR]
OLB SirDarean Adams [SR]
RB Javon Ringer [JR]

Offense (B)
Just run the ball! Michigan State boasts 3 solid tailbacks, with Ringer clearly being the best. But still, the Spartans will need to throw the ball and junior QB Brian Hoyers needs to find a beast WR in junior Devin Thomas or solid senior TE Kellen Davis for Michigan State to compete with the big boys.

Defense (B-)
The Michigan State defense will shut down crappy non-conference teams. They will not do anything like that to their conference rivals though. Warrick and Adams are good but there are too many question marks to handle.

Special Teams (A)
Sophomore Brett Swenson is one of the nation's best and he's still got 2 years left.

Overall (B)
A shaky defense means trouble and a possible one-dimensional offense means no bowl game. But still, they have enough talent to make it happen.

10) Indiana Hooisers (#65)

Last Season Record: 5-7 (3-5)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Impact Players
WR James Hardy [JR]
OLB Geno Johnson [JR]
RB Marcus Thigpen [JR]

Offense (B-)
Thigpen and Hardy are exciting talents that could combine for 30 TDs this season --- if they had a good o-line and QB. Unfortunately, they have about half of that. Senior QB Blake Powers could lose his job to upstart dual-threat sophomore Kellen Lewis if he doesn't perform.

Defense (C+)
Some decent experience and some good building blocks for the future, but not nearly enough to make any noise in this conference. OLB Johnson will need a lot of help if Indiana wants to get back to 5 wins.

Special Teams (B)
Thigpen is a return game monster. He might get more return TDs than rushing TDs.

Overall (B-)
A team can only go as far as their weakest player. According to Indiana's squad, they won't be going very far.

11) Northwestern Wildcats (#66)

Last Season Record: 4-8 (2-6)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Impact Players
RB Tyrell Sutton [JR]
MLB Adam Kadela [SR]
SS Brendan Smith [JR]

Offense (B)
Northwestern seems to have a good balance but there are some question marks on the o-line, except at center where senior Trevor Rees rules. RBs Sutton and senior Brandon Roberson will keep defenses honest, while junior QB C.J. Bacher will try to capitalize off the run game with some deep throws.

Defense (B)
In all honesty, this Northwestern defense looks better than most. They aren't the most spectacular or flashy group, but as a whole they look pretty good. Kadela may be their top playmaker and leader, but several other stars like seniors FS Reggie McPherson and DE David Ngene has NFL scouts licking their chops.

Special Teams (B)
If I could pronounce their kickers' names I would write them here. Unfortunately, that is not the case.

Overall (B)
This is one of the few predictions that might not come true. The Wildcats have a pretty solid squad but will have to play well against the lower-tier conference rivals in order to break past the .500 mark.

[kblu54]

Nebraska looking to return to Big 12 glory
Big 12 News

Entering this season, Nebraska had not won a Big 12 title in years. Last season, they won the North Division but fell 21-7 to Oklahoma in the conference championship game. This year, the Huskers bring a talented squad that may challenge either Texas or Oklahoma in the Big 12's final contest.

Beyond Nebraska, the Big 12 North looks interesting. Several teams have promising players but most of them are built to win next season. If any of them can step up and knock off the Huskers, it will be a sight to see.

Let's review the Big 12 North squads, in order of predicted finish.

1) Nebraska Cornhuskers (#14)

Last Season Record: 9-5 (6-2 Big 12)
Postseason Result: Lost 17-14 to Auburn in AT&T Cotton Bowl

Impact Players
OLB Steve Octavien [SR]
CB Zack Bowman [SR]
QB Sam Keller [SR]

Offense (B+)
Coach Bill Callahan has built up a pretty solid West Coast-style offense at Nebraska, which should be very balanced. QB Keller is a great signal-caller, and he has plenty of targets to throw to and two good tailbacks in senior Kenny Wilson and junior Marlon Lucky. Not only that, Nebraska has a pretty good o-line too.

Defense (A-)
The Nebraska defense is very tough and very experienced, with senior starters at 7 out of the 11 spots. OLB Octavien, CB Bowman and other seniors like OLB Bo Ruud and SS Tierre Green give Nebraska an intimidating look. A young player to watch is sophomore DT Ndamukong Suh.

Special Teams (A-)
Juniors occupy the kicking spots this season.

Overall (A-)
Nebraska is the clear favorite in the North and has plenty of talent to back it up. Can they challenge the South winner?

2) Missouri Tigers (#37)

Last Season Record: 8-5 (4-4)
Postseason Result: Lost 39-38 to Oregon State in Brut Sun Bowl

Impact Players
QB Chase Daniel [JR]
DT Lorenzo Williams [SR]
RB Marcus Woods [SR]

Offense (A-)
Missouri's offense could challenge anyone in the conference. QB Daniel is a top-notch leader and has plenty of playmakers to connect with. Senior tailbacks Woods and Tony Temple will give Missouri a balanced attack, while redshirt freshman WR Jeremy Maclin will be exciting as both a receiver and a returner. The Tigers have an excellent offensive line, and two of the nation's top TEs in senior Martin Rucker and junior Chase Coffman.

Defense (B-)
The issue with Missouri is of course their defense. Their offense can score 40+ per game, but can their defense stop opposing teams from doing the same? DT Williams bolsters a young but talented defensive line, while sophomore OLB Sean Weatherspoon is a talented guy to watch. The secondary is very young and might be exploited by the conference's high-passing attacks.

Special Teams (A+)
Junior kicker Jeff Wolfert and senior punter Adam Crossett give Missouri one less thing to worry about.

Overall (B+)
Missouri has a ton of talent but not much experience. They could challenge Nebraska and some of the South squads, except it probably won't be this year.

3) Kansas State Wildcats (#46)

Last Season Record: 7-6 (4-4)
Postseason Result: Lost 37-10 to Rutgers in Texas Bowl

Impact Players
SS Marcus Watts [JR]
OLB Ian Campbell [JR]
RB James Johnson [SR]

Offense (B-)
Kansas State has a solid offense that could compete... in the WAC. Sophomore QB Josh Freeman and RB Johnson are two good players, but the receivers and o-line seem to fall short. Senior WR Jordy Nelson seems to be helpful though.

Defense (B-)
If you came here looking for a tough defensive squad, then you must have taken a wrong turn. Kansas State has a few solid guys like OLB Campbell and SS Watts, but the rest of the defense has a ton of weak spots. They have a bunch of senior starters, but they aren't even close to the level of their opponents.

Special Teams (A-)
Senior punter Tim Reyer seems competent.

Overall (B)
This might be Kansas State's only year to really have good success. They don't have much for youngsters save for sophomore QB Freeman, but he can't do it all himself.

4) Colorado Buffaloes (#58)

Last Season Record: 2-10 (2-6)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Impact Players
CB Terrence Wheatley [SR]
OLB Brad Jones [JR]
RB Hugh Charles [SR]

Offense (B-)
I don't know what to say about the Colorado offense except that it's not that good. They may be able to rack up the points against lesser non-conference opponents, but their Big 12 rivals won't allow that. RB Charles and the great tailbacks behind him give Colorado a boost, but the passing game and offensive line don't look exciting.

Defense (B)
Colorado's starting cornerbacks and OLBs look great, but the rest of the defense doesn't match. The defensive line looks average, the safeties aren't that good and they have a shaky sophomore starting at MLB. Overall, too many weak spots to overcome.

Special Teams (A)
Sophomore punter Matthew DiLallo is very solid.

Overall (B)
Colorado just looks too average to compete with the big boys. A bowl game is not out of the question though.

5) Kansas Jayhawks (#60)

Last Season Record: 6-6 (3-5)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Impact Players
CB Aqib Talib [JR]
TE Derek Fine [SR]
DT James McClinton [SR]

Offense (B-)
The Kansas offense has a ton of young talent but not enough to make them a contender this season. Sophomore QB Todd Reesing snuck up and won the job this season, but he will need help from his receivers to keep the Jayhawks competitive. The running game might be a weak spot.

Defense (B-)
CB Talib is one of the nation's top corners and was voted a Preseason 1st Team All-American. Why can't the rest of the defense be as good as him? Kansas looks average for the rest of the defense but does have some exciting youngsters like sophomore SS Darrell Stuckey.

Special Teams (B+)
A pair of seniors will handle the kicking duties.

Overall (B)
I like what Coach Mark Mangino is building out of a perennially lousy program. A bowl game seems to be in the cards, but anything more seems unlikely.

6) Iowa State Cyclones (#83)

Last Season Record: 4-8 (1-7)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Impact Players
WR Todd Blythe [SR]
OLB Alvin Bowen [SR]
QB Bret Meyer [SR]

Offense (B-)
Seniors must lead the way for Iowa State this year, and they have two solid ones in QB Meyer and WR Blythe. Unfortunately, it appears that they are all that the Cyclones have. The running game looks weak, and the o-line is terrible.

Defense (B-)
The front seven? Not bad. The secondary? Very bad. Iowa State should be able to stay tough against the run but will probably get carved up by the Big 12's awesome collection of QBs. OLB Bowen is a very good senior leader.

Special Teams (B+)
Sophomore punter Mike Brandtner is not bad at all. In fact, he's pretty good.

Overall (B-)
Except the cellar-dweller Cyclones to get buried below their Big 12 rivals again.

[kblu54]

Red River Rivalry winner will determine South, Big 12 Champion
Big 12 News

The annual Red River Rivalry game between Texas and Oklahoma is normally played midway through the college football season and has big implications. This season, the winner will have the inside track to the Big 12 title.

Texas and Oklahoma open the season ranked #5 and #8, respectively, and their highly-anticipated matchup will probably determine the South Division champion and possibly the Big 12 Champion as well. Last season, Texas beat the Sooners 28-10 but it was Oklahoma who had the last laugh, winning the South Division title and eventually the Big 12 title. This year, we will see if the tables are turned or if Oklahoma can repeat.

Let's take a look at the 2007-08 Big 12 South squads.

1) Texas Longhorns (#5)

Last Season Record: 10-3 (6-2 Big 12)
Postseason Result: Won 26-24 over Iowa in Alamo Bowl

Impact Players
DT Frank Okam [SR]
WR Limas Sweed [SR]
RB Jamaal Charles [JR]

Offense (A)
Whoa! Look out for the Texas offense! The Longhorns boast an extremely talented group that only has a few seniors. Sophomore QB Colt McCoy has plenty of targets to throw to like WR Sweed, and plenty of guys to run the ball like RB Charles, giving him some dangerous options. Not only that, but McCoy should feel protected behind a very talented (and not that old!) offensive line. This offense is built to dominate this year and beyond.

Defense (B+)
The Texas defense looks very good and has a ton of potential stars, but they don't seem to be as dominant as some of the other national powers. Regardless they will be good, but I can see one slip-up along the way, maybe against the Sooners. Still, DT Okam and junior DE Brian Orakpo lead an awesome defensive line. The linebackers are also good and the secondary has a great mixture of talented youngsters and experienced seniors.

Special Teams (A+)
Texas has two sophomore specialists that form arguably the top unit in the Big 12. I repeat: sophomores form the top unit.

Overall (A)
After falling short last season, Texas seems to have the tools available for a legit Big 12 title run. They need to beat Oklahoma again to do it, but they seem poised and ready.

2) Oklahoma Sooners (#8)

Last Season Record: 11-3 (7-1) *Big 12 Champions*
Postseason Result: Lost 43-42 (OT) to Boise State in Fiesta Bowl

Impact Players
SS Reggie Smith [JR]
FS Darien Williams [SR]
RB Allen Patrick [SR]

Offense (A-)
If you were looking for the Big 12's top offense, you came to the right spot. The Sooners have the best collection of playmakers and offensive lineman in the conference, hands down. Redshirt freshman Sam Bradford won the QB job, and he should feel confident standing behind an awesome set of blockers. RB Patrick is a great weapon out of the backfield and Oklahoma's receivers are unrivaled.

Defense (A-)
If you were looking for the Big 12's top defense, you found it correctly too. Oklahoma's safety tandem in FS Williams and SS Smith is probably the best duo in the nation. Not only that, but the d-line is talented and experienced, the linebackers are great and the cornerbacks seem solid. Overall, just an outstanding group.

Special Teams (A+)
Senior kicker Garrett Hartley? Oh yeah, he's good.

Overall (A+)
It's kind of a surprise that the defending Big 12 champs weren't picked to finish 1st. Because according to this team, that's where they will end up.

3) Texas A&M Aggies (#24)

Last Season Record: 9-4 (5-3)
Postseason Result: Lost 45-10 to California in Holiday Bowl

Impact Players
QB Stephen McGee [JR]
RB Jorvorskie Lane [JR]
DT Red Bryant [SR]

Offense (B+)
QB McGee leads a pretty solid offense, bolstered by a bruising rushing attack and a tough offensive line. His receivers seem a little weak, save for junior TE Martellus Bennett, but Texas A&M should focus on running the ball with their delicious tandem of Lane and sophomore Mike Goodson.

Defense (B-)
The Aggie defense isn't bad but they have some glaring weak spots (MLB, for example) and their youngsters seem low on talent. This will be the year for the Texas A&M defenders, with a bunch of senior starters leading the way.

Special Teams (A+)
Sophomore kicker Matt Szymanski and junior punter Justin Brantly are very good.

Overall (B+)
Texas A&M will be a good team but I'm not sure they have what it takes to upset Texas or Oklahoma.

4) Texas Tech Red Raiders (#35)

Last Season Record: 8-5 (4-4)
Postseason Result: Won 44-41 over Minnesota in Insight Bowl

Impact Players
QB Graham Harrell [JR]
RB Shannon Woods [JR]
FS Darcel McBath [JR]

Offense (B+)
Coach Mike Leach and his vaunted passing attack will be very exciting to watch this season. QB Harrell is a top-notch QB and has a ton of guys to connect with, like senior WR Danny Amendola and a very talented redshirt freshman in WR Michael Crabtree. RB Woods probably won't run the ball much but he is an important asset catching passes out of the backfield. The Texas Tech o-line isn't bad either.

Defense (B-)
Defense will be the issue for Texas Tech, as they might give up just as many points as they will score. They have 3 seniors starting at linebacker, but their d-line is pretty young. The secondary doesn't look bad and has 3 starting seniors, but we will see how they fare against top dogs Texas and Oklahoma. FS McBath will do his best to prevent the big pass play.

Special Teams (A)
It's opposite ends of the age spectrum here, with a senior and a true freshman handling the kicking duties.

Overall (B+)
Texas Tech will probably reach 8-9 wins but they won't compete for the Big 12 title. Next year might be a different story.

5) Oklahoma State Cowboys (#36)

Last Season Record: 7-6 (3-5)
Postseason Result: Won 34-31 over Alabama in Independence Bowl

Impact Players
WR Adarius Bowman [SR]
QB Bobby Reid [JR]
OLB Chris Collins [SO]

Offense (A-)
The Cowboys' offense looks very good and will be competitive against any team in the Big 12. QB Reid is a speedy dual-threat leader, and has a bunch of targets to hit like WR Bowman and junior TE Brandon Pettigrew. The offensive line looks pretty solid too, so Oklahoma State will probably roll up points in bunches.

Defense (B)
There seems to be a common theme in the Big 12 South --- plenty of offense, no defense. Oklahoma State stays consistent with the theme. Overall, the defense has a few playmakers but not enough across the board to really make a difference. OLB Collins is a talented sophomore and has other same-age teammates (CB Perrish Cox, FS Andre Sexton) that are good, but the Cowboys' seniors seem to be behind.

Special Teams (A+)
Juniors Jason Ricks (kicker) and Matt Fodge (punter) are hands down the best specialists in the conference.

Overall (A)
Oklahoma State could easily vault Texas A&M and Texas Tech in the standings. They might challenge Texas and Oklahoma, but their weak spots on defense could be exploited.

6) Baylor Bears (#86)

Last Season Record: 4-8 (3-5)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Impact Players
QB Michael Machen [SR]
MLB Joe Pawelek [SO]
RB Brandon Whitaker [SR]

Offense (C)
Wait, let me re-phrase the Big 12 South theme. Plenty of offense, no defense... and Baylor still sucks. If they average 14+ points per game against their Big 12 rivals, it will truly be a shock. QB Machen is tall (6'6) but doesn't have much for weapons. One bright spot is OT Jason Smith, who does a great job protecting.

Defense (C-)
When Oklahoma has freshman redshirting that are more talented than your starting senior, you know you have a problem. Baylor's defense is terrible, but the good news is that they seem to be pretty young and MLB Pawelek is pretty good. Still, expect their conference opponents to carve them up for plenty of points.

Special Teams (B)
Ehh... not bad. Not good either.

Overall (C)
Hahahaha... Big 12 title for Baylor? No way. Bowl game? No way either. Winless season? Now that is a definite possibility.

[kblu54]

West Virginia, Louisville to battle for Big East crown
Big East News

It seems to be a two-team race for the Big East title as the season looms near. Louisville, the defending conference champ, and a very talented West Virginia squad will duke it out for Big East supremacy this season.

The Big East seems to have a bunch of solid squads though, including #20 Rutgers and a possibly-underrated South Florida team.

Let's take a look at the 2007-08 Big East teams, in order of predicted finish.

1) West Virginia Mountaineers (#6)

Last Season Record: 11-2 (5-2 Big East)
Postseason Result: Won 38-35 over Georgia Tech in Gator Bowl

Impact Players
RB Steve Slaton [JR]
QB Patrick White [JR]
SS Eric Wicks [SR]

Offense (A+)
Coach Rich Rodriguez's spread option attack will be in full force this season behind two of the Big East's most explosive players. RB Slaton and QB White will be the catalysts for the Mountaineers' option-based attack, and should light up the scoreboard.

Defense (B)
The West Virginia defense needs to play tough to help out the offense. The Mountaineers will probably average over 40+ points per game, but the defense needs to hold teams way under that. If they can play sound, West Virginia will be a BCS title contender. SS Wicks leads a very experienced group, but a few talented redshirt freshman (DE Scooter Berry, OLB Anthony Leonard) will start.

Special Teams (A)
Junior kicker Pat McAfee is an underrated asset for the offense.

Overall (A)
This Mountaineer squad is very good and has enough tools to make a serious run for the Big East title.

2) Louisville Cardinals (#11)

Last Season Record: 12-1 (6-1) *Big East Champions*
Postseason Result: Won 24-13 over Wake Forest in Orange Bowl

Impact Players
QB Brian Brohm [SR]
WR Harry Douglas [SR]
DE Brandon Cox [SR]

Offense (A)
QB Brohm, a Preseason 1st Team All-American, leads a dominant offense and has plenty of targets to throw to and a solid offensive line to set up behind. Besides WR Douglas, junior WR Mario Urrutia and senior TE Gary Barnidge are two great receivers. The Louisville/West Virginia matchup should be an exciting shootout.

Defense (B)
The Louisville defense is decent but will not be a dominating squad. DEs Cox and talented sophomore Peanut Whitehead headline a good defensive line, and the back 2 lines are solid enough to push Louisville to at least 10 wins.

Special Teams (A+)
Senior kicker Art Carmody was named a Preseason 1st Team All-American.

Overall (A)
The winner of the Louisville/West Virginia shootout will probably win the Big East. Brohm & company will be an unstoppable force, but can the defense show up enough to win their 2nd-straight conference title?

3) Rutgers Scarlet Knights (#20)

Last Season Record: 11-2 (5-2)
Postseason Result: Won 37-10 over Kansas State in Texas Bowl

Impact Players
RB Ray Rice [JR]
K Jeremy Ito [SR]
FS Courtney Greene [JR]

Offense (B+)
Give the ball to Ray Rice! The bruising junior tailback is due for another great season behind a solid offensive line. Junior QB Mike Teel needs to be efficient to keep defenses honest, but he was some great receivers (WRs Kenny Britt, Tiquan Underwood) to throw to.

Defense (C+)
Ugh. If only there defense was better, Rutgers might be a serious contender. The defensive line looks okay and the secondary looks good, but the linebackers are very young and not good. They will probably struggle against the high-powered offenses of Louisville and West Virginia, but they will be good enough to stay high in the standings.

Special Teams (A+)
Senior kicker Jeremy Ito is the only specialist in the nation to be considered an "impact" player.

Overall (B)
Rice is outstanding, but he can't do it all himself. Rutgers needs a solid passing game and some good defense to have a shot.

4) South Florida Bulls (#29)

Last Season Record: 9-4 (4-3)
Postseason Result: Won 24-7 over ECU in Papajohns.com Bowl

Impact Players
DE Julian Riley [SR]
OLB Chris Robinson [SO]
QB Matt Grothe [SO]

Offense (C+)
QB Grothe is good, but he needs a lot of help. His offensive line looks subpar, he doesn't have a clear RB and his only has one good WR to throw to. He will probably make a lot of plays with his feet, but he needs one or two skill players to step up.

Defense (B)
When it's all said and done, USF might produce the Big East's best defense. The defensive line looks good, the linebackers are pretty solid and their cornerbacks are outstanding. The key to their success this year will be the play of their defenders. If they can step up in big games, USF might be a serious sleeper pick. Watch out for talented sophomores in OLB Robinson, DE George Selvie and CB Jerome Murphy. Senior CB Mike Jenkins is one of the best corners in the nation.

Special Teams (B)
An average group of specialists will do the job.

Overall (B-)
If the defense can be consistenly good and Grothe can find a go-to sidekick, then the Bulls will be a surprise.

5) Cincinnati Bearcats (#49)

Last Season Record: 8-5 (4-3)
Postseason Result: Won 27-24 over Western Michigan in International Bowl

Impact Players
CB Mike Mickens [JR]
FS Haruki Nakamura [SR]
RB Greg Moore [SR]

Offense (B-)
It will be an interesting year for the Bearcat offense, which looks young. Sophomores QB Tony Pike and WR Mardy Gilyard could blossom into one of the best connections in the nation, but with Pike playing behind an iffy offensive line we might not see good results until next season. Senior tailbacks Moore and Butler Benton need to provide Pike with some relief with the run game.

Defense (B-)
Defensive line? Good. Secondary? Good. Linebackers? Ehh... The Bearcats need to gel as a unit to give their offense a boost. CB Mickens and FS Nakamura will help prevent a large passing outburst, but the defensive line needs to play sound to assist the young linebackers.

Special Teams (B+)
Junior punter Kevin Huber ranks high among the nation's specialists.

Overall (B-)
Cincinnati could easily surprise everyone and go 9-3 or better. They also could surprise everyone and go 3-9 or worse. A 7-5 campaign is more likely.

6) Pittsburgh Panthers (#56)

Last Season Record: 6-6 (2-5)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Impact Players
RB LaRod Stephens-Howling [JR]
WR Derek Kinder [SR]
DE Joe Clermond [SR]

Offense (B-)
Pittsburgh has a great backfield, some solid receivers and a pretty tough offensive line. Now, if only they could get a QB... Tailbacks Stephens-Howling and true freshman LeSean McCoy will turn the Panthers into a rushing machine behind the blocking of junior FB Conredge Collins, while WR Kinder and sophomores TE Nate Byham and WR Oderick Turner will make plays in the open field. If junior QB Bill Stull can play well and hold off true freshman Pat Bostick, then Pittsburgh will be better than expected.

Defense (C+)
This Pittsburgh defense needs a lot of work. They have one legit good player, and it's not even their "impact" guy. Junior MLB Scott McKillop will be wondering "where's the help?" way too often with these teammates.

Special Teams (B)
The specialists will suffice.

Overall (B-)
Pittsburgh has a few potential stars but have way too many glaring weak spots to contend. They could definately sneak into a bowl game they missed out on last year.

7) Connecticut Huskies (#68)

Last Season Record: 4-8 (1-6)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Impact Players
RB Donald Brown [SO]
CB Darius Butler [JR]
WR Larry Taylor [SR]

Offense (C+)
RB Brown will probably develop into one of the nation's best backs and will have NFL scouts drooling over him. Unfortunately, his days at UConn do not look as promising. The Huskies will need to give Brown the ball early and often to even have a shot at a bowl. Junior QB Tyler Lorenzen isn't bad, but he only has one decent target to hit. The Huskies also have two solid lineman, but 2 out of 5 isn't very good.

Defense (C)
Good corners and good defensive ends, but bad everything else. The interior of the defense and the deep safeties are huge weak spots that could be exploited easily. Still, the Huskies have a few good defenders --- CBs Butler and senior Tyvon Branch are pretty good, and so is junior DE Cody Brown.

Special Teams (B-)
UConn's junior kicker is awful. Honestly.

Overall (C)
Brown needs to really shatter some rushing records for UConn to sneak into a bowl game. Anything less and they will be back in class sooner than later.

8) Syracuse Orangemen (#76)

Last Season Record: 4-8 (1-6)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Impact Players
DE Jameel McClain [SR]
WR Rice Moss [SR]
RB Curtis Brinkley [JR]

Offense (B-)
Syracuse's offense in reality isn't that bad, and they have enough talented youngsters to provide some hope for the future. Sophomores QB Andrew Robinson, RB Delone Carter and WRs Lavar Lobdell and Mike Williams are very talented and should play major roles in the offensive development. Still, this year will be a big learning year for them, which usually indicates minimal success.

Defense (C+)
The defense is in a very similar situation as the offense, with a bunch of talented sophomore starters. DE Brandon Gilbreaux and DT Arthur Jones headline the defensive line, while several juniors start at LB and in the secondary. DE McClain and 3 senior corners will provide the leadership for this young unit.

Special Teams (B)
Not a bad unit at all, with a true freshman doing the punting.

Overall (B-)
Syracuse has a lot of hope for the future, but a bowl game this year seems unlikely. Still, the learning experience may pay off next season.

[kblu54]

Southern Miss looking to hold off all contenders, re-claim conference crown
Conference USA News

Last season, Southern Miss dominated the East Division but suffered a 34-20 letdown to Houston in the title game. This year, the Eagles are the highest-ranked Conference USA squad and want to prove it.

Southern Miss has a pretty explosive offense and a solid defense, but they will need to hold off contenders like Marshall, ECU and UCF to earn another East Division title.

Let's take a look at the 2007-08 Conference USA East Division teams, in order of predicted finish.

1) Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles (#52)

Last Season Record: 9-5 (6-2 C-USA)
Postseason Result: Won 28-7 over Ohio in GMAC Bowl

Impact Players
SS Brandon Sumrall [SR]
RB Damion Fletcher [SO]
DT Martavius Prince [SR]

Offense (B-)
The Eagles have a speedy QB in senior Jeremy Young, a ankle-breaking tailback in Fletcher and a very athletic TE in junior Shawn Nelson. Can the Eagles win the conference with just these three stars? Because looking at the rest of the offense, they might have to. The offensive line looks average, and there isn't many top receivers for Young to hit. Still, in a mid-major conference the Eagles should be flying high.

Defense (C)
Can Sumrall and Prince duplicate themselves? Because the Eagles need a lot more players like them on this so-so defense. The linebackers aren't bad, but the DEs and the cornerbacks look ready to be cooked. It's a good thing that most of the offenses in the conference are rated lower than a C+.

Special Teams (B)
The Eagles have a junior punter named Barefoot. Does he kick that way too?

Overall (C+)
Southern Miss has probably more "stars" than any other team in the C-USA. And it might be enough to bring home the gold.

2) Marshall Thundering Herd (#69)

Last Season Record: 5-7 (4-4)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Impact Players
DE Albert McClellan [JR]
WR Marcus Fitzgerald [SR]
RB Chubb Small [JR]

Offense (B-)
Marshall's offense looks pretty good compared to the rest of the conference. They should be balanced and has plenty of players, besides Fitzgerald and Small, to watch --- senior QB Bernard Morris, junior WR Emmanuel Spann, sophomore TE Cody Slate and senior center Doug Legursky.

Defense (C-)
Yikes. Is Marshall planning on winning shootouts this season? Because their defense looks poised to give up a ton of points. DE McClellan is really the lone bright spot, but a ton of sacks from him will assist a subpar secondary.

Special Teams (B)
Both specialists' last names start with B.

Overall (C)
Marshall needs either their defense to step up or their offense to drop 40+ each week to contend. I can't see either happening.

3) East Carolina Pirates (#85)

Last Season Record: 7-6 (5-3)
Postseason Result: Lost 24-7 to USF in Papajohns.com Bowl

Impact Players
DT Linval Joseph [FR]
WR Juwon Crowell [SR]
WR Steven Rogers [SR]

Offense (C+)
The offense looks above average, and has some key players than can run the spread well. Junior QB Patrick Pinkney is pretty solid and has a bunch of decent receivers. An underrated player to watch is senior RB Chris Johnson, who is just a burner and will be exciting in the return game as well.

Defense (C)
Yes, you read that right. A true freshman is the "impact" player on defense. Joseph is solid but the d-line has some better players too, like fellow DT senior Mark Robinson and sophomore DE C.J. Wilson. The rest of the defense looks average at best.

Special Teams (B)
Sophomore kicker Ben Hartman is pretty good.

Overall (C)
ECU could pull a few upsets along the way and a return trip to a bowl game is very likely. Anything more seems unlikely.

4) Central Florida Knights (#87)

Last Season Record: 4-8 (3-5)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Impact Players
RB Kevin Smith [JR]
CB Joe Burnett [JR]
DT Keith Shologan [SR]

Offense (C+)
Smith is a very good tailback and the offensive line isn't bad. If the Knights can pound the rock with their star back, they could be a sleeper. But of course, they need to complement Smith with a solid passing attack, which senior QB Kyle Israel needs to provide.

Defense (C+)
UCF's secondary is very good, headlined by Burnett and fellow juniors CB Johnell Neal and FS Jason Vernon. Shologan leads an average d-line, but they need to play well to help out their subpar linebackers. Still, there is a lot of potential in this group.

Special Teams (B+)
A 5th-year senior will kick, while a redshirt freshman will punt.

Overall (C+)
This UCF team could be very underrated. They could reach 6-7 wins and sneak into a bowl, which will be a great jump start for next season.

5) Memphis Tigers (#92)

Last Season Record: 2-10 (1-7)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Impact Players
WR Duke Calhoun [SO]
QB Martin Hankins [SR]
DE Greg Terrell [SO]

Offense (B-)
The Memphis offense looks very good and will be their strongpoint this season. QB Hankins will command a good group, with a bunch of playmakers and a solid offensive line. WR Calhoun is great, but the real player to watch is senior RB Joseph Doss.

Defense (C)
Memphis' front seven looks good. The secondary could use a lot of work though. DE Terrell is a young talent, but he's definately not even the best defender. That honor goes to senior OLB Quinton McCrary, who should make up for any mistakes.

Special Teams (B+)
Sophomore Matt Reagan will kick, and junior Brent Sutherland will punt.

Overall (C+)
Memphis is another team that will need to win shootouts to compete. I can see a 4 or 5 win season.

6) UAB Blazers (#97)

Last Season Record: 3-9 (2-6)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Impact Players
FS Will Dunbar [SR]
OLB Joe Henderson [JR]
WR Sylvester Mencer [JR]

Offense (D+)
Oh boy. This offense is not very good. Except the good news is, this will probably be the only year that they won't be good. Sophomore QB Joseph Webb is waiting in the wings to replace senior Sam Hunt, while sophomore center Jake Seitz is potentially a perennial all-conference lineman.

Defense (C)
There's a little bit of talent in the secondary and some at OLB, but not much elsewhere. Henderson, Dunbar and junior CB Kevin Sanders need to play out of their minds to overcome all of UAB's glaring needs.

Special Teams (C+)
An opposing C-USA coach called the Blazers' true freshman kicker "sporadic". And that was being nice.

Overall (C-)
This year, they will struggle. Next year, they won't. If only they could fast forward...

[kblu54]

Houston looking for another C-USA title
Conference USA News

The Houston Cougars won the Conference USA title last season and was the only team in the conference to reach double-digit wins. They suffered a setback in their bowl game, but they still seem to have enough pieces to repeat.

Houston will get strong efforts from Tulsa, SMU and UTEP but they should still claim the West Division title.

Let's look at the 2007-08 Conference USA West Division programs, in order of predicted finish.

1) Houston Cougars (#67)

Last Season Record: 10-4 (7-1 C-USA) *C-USA Champions*
Postseason Result: Lost 44-36 to South Carolina in Liberty Bowl

Impact Players
DE Phillip Hunt [JR]
SS Rocky Schwartz [SR]
RB Anthony Alridge [SR]

Offense (B)
Houston's strength this season will definately be their offense. They have the best offense in the conference, and it isn't even an argument. Playmakers like Alridge and senior WR Donnie Avery make Houston a dangerous team. The offensive line looks great too, which will help redshirt freshman QB Case Keenum develop faster.

Defense (B-)
Not only does Houston have the conference's best offense, but their defense is probably tops as well. With key players like Hunt and Schwartz, the Cougars should dominate opposing offenses. Their linebackers are really experienced and junior CB Kenneth Fontenette is one of the C-USA's best at his position.

Special Teams (B)
Not the best unit. But with an offense like that, they won't need to punt or kick field goals.

Overall (B-)
Anything less than the Conference USA title will be a disappointment.

2) Tulsa Golden Hurricane (#71)

Last Season Record: 8-5 (5-3)
Postseason Result: Lost 25-13 to Utah in Armed Forces Bowl

Impact Players
MLB Nelson Coleman [SR]
FB Courtney Tennial [SR]
OLB Chris Chamberlain [SR]

Offense (C)
Senior QB Paul Smith is a very good signal-caller, but he doesn't seem to have enough weapons to display his potential. Tennial is really a tailback in disguise and should keep the offense balanced, but Smith needs his receivers to step up for Tulsa to really compete.

Defense (C)
All of Tulsa's top defenders are seniors. Note that Tulsa only has 5 seniors starting. They seem to have one good player at each position, but they have no depth. The youngsters really need to improve to give Tulsa a viable defense.

Special Teams (B)
Two average juniors form the unit.

Overall (C)
The old mantra is that "C's get degrees". Unfortunately, they don't win championships.

3) Southern Methodist Mustangs (#79)

Last Season Record: 6-6 (4-4)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Impact Players
MLB Tony Hawkins [SR]
QB Justin Willis [SO]
DE Cory Muse [SR]

Offense (C)
An average offense gets an average rating. QB Willis looks pretty solid despite being only a sophomore. He will line up behind a decent but experienced o-line, and has an underrated tailback in junior DeMyron Martin to use.

Defense (C)
Muse and Hawkins are good but they need a lot of help. Too bad there's no such thing as free agency in college. The Mustangs' D will need to really step up to give SMU a shot at 6 wins again.

Special Teams (A-)
Junior kicker Thomas Morstead is good and will be very highly-rated next season.

Overall (C)
The Mustangs seem too average on both sides of the ball to seriously contend. They are probably headed for another 6-6 year, which could sneak them into a bowl.

4) UTEP Miners (#82)

Last Season Record: 5-7 (3-5)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Impact Players
FS Quintin Demps [SR]
WR Lorne Sam [SR]
RB Marcus Thomas [SR]

Offense (B-)
Do not be surprised if UTEP makes a serious run for the West Division crown. This preseason ranking seems really low for them, especially considering how good this offense is. They do have a redshirt freshman (Trevor Vittatoe) starting at QB, but he shouldn't have to do much with all the playmakers around him. Thomas, Sam, senior WR Joe West and senior TE Jake Sears will all make life much easier for Vittatoe. Plus, the protection is talented and experienced --- what more could you ask for?

Defense (C)
Oh yeah, that's why they're ranked so low --- the defense is terrible. Wait, let me rephrase that --- the front seven and the cornerbacks are terrible. The good part is that safeties Demps and sophomore Braxton Amy are future NFL stars. Teams won't be able to throw deep on the Miners, so they'll probably just carve them up on the ground.

Special Teams (B)
UTEP's redshirt freshman punter is way better than their junior kicker.

Overall (C+)
UTEP is probably Houston's only legit threat for the West Division crown. The offense is good and their safety duo is remarkable, but their defensive front seven is a huge issue.

5) Rice Owls (#91)

Last Season Record: 7-6 (6-2)
Postseason Result: Lost 41-17 to Troy in New Orleans Bowl

Impact Players
WR Jarett Dillard [JR]
OLB Brian Raines [JR]
DE Jonathan Cary [SR]

Offense (C+)
Rice, which used to be a triple-option team, continues their development as a pass-oriented program. Helping them further that will be Dillard, a very talented receiver. Dillard will get plenty of passes from junior QB Chase Clement, but Rice needs to find another weapon to keep defenses honest.

Defense (C)
This defense seems pretty average, but they do have some talented youngsters and enough experience to make them somewhat competitive. Don't expect any shutouts though.

Special Teams (B-)
The specialists Rice have are not very good.

Overall (C)
Rice seems to be a few stars short of a contender. They could earn another trip to a bowl game, but that means Dillard must find creative ways to get open.

6) Tulane Green Wave (#103)

Last Season Record: 4-8 (2-6)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Impact Players
RB Matt Forte [SR]
SS Joe Goosby [SR]
WR Jeremy Williams [SO]

Offense (C+)
Tulane has a great senior tailback and a playmaking sophomore WR... and that's about it. The Green Wave need to give Forte at least 25 carries a game and get Williams the ball in open space for them to succeed.

Defense (C-)
Goosby and senior DE Antonio Harris are great defenders... but that's also about it for the defense. Way too many weak spots for Tulane to seriously consider a winning campaign. Their linebackers and corners are just downright awful.

Special Teams (C+)
I thought I'd seen it all... and then I saw Tulane's sophomore kicker. I was not impressed.

Overall (C-)
I feel a little bad for Tulane's top players. Their potentially productive seasons will probably be all in vain, as Tulane is not going to a bowl game this season.

[kblu54]

Notre Dame looking to jump back into nation's elite
Independents News

Notre Dame head coach Charlie Weis led the Fighting Irish to a 10-3 mark and a trip to a BCS bowl, but Notre Dame suffered yet another postseason loss. This season, Notre Dame is looking to re-join the conversation involving the nation's elite programs.

Navy had a very good year last year (9-4 record) but may not achieve that success this year. Army is looking to get back to .500 or better.

Let's take a look at the 2007-08 Independents, in order of predicted finish.

1) Notre Dame Fighting Irish (#28)

Last Season Record: 10-3
Postseason Result: Lost 41-14 to LSU in Sugar Bowl

Impact Players
SS Tom Zbikowski [SR]
TE John Carlson [SR]
MLB Maurice Crum [JR]

Offense (B+)
Leading the Notre Dame offense will be true freshman Jimmy Clausen, the #1-overall rated prospect in the nation. Clausen will take his lumps right away under Coach Weis' pro-style offense, but he has a very talented group around him. Clausen is not the only youngster on offense either, as Notre Dame will start only 2 seniors. One of those seniors is Carlson, who should be Clausen's main passing target. The other is center John Sullivan, who anchors a young but talented offensive line. The Irish backfield and receivers are also very young but extremely talented.

Defense (B+)
The Notre Dame defense looks pretty solid and has a ton of experienced guys, like the exciting Zbikowski. Seniors DT Trevor Laws, OLB Joe Brockington and CB Ambrose Wooden will provide the leadership for a young, talented defense.

Special Teams (A-)
The specialists are pretty solid.

Overall (B+)
Notre Dame is so young on both sides of the ball and can only get better. They have just enough senior leadership to show them the way, so Notre Dame could get another shot at a BCS bowl.

2) Navy Midshipmen (#63)

Last Season Record: 9-4
Postseason Result: Lost 25-24 to Boston College in Meineke Car Care Bowl

Impact Players
FB Adam Ballard [SR]
RB Reggie Campbell [SR]
FS Jeff Deliz [SR]

Offense (C)
The Navy triple-option attack has two outstanding ballcarriers in Ballard and Campbell, making them even more dangerous. Junior QB Kaipo-Noa Kaheaku-Enhada will run the hard-to-defend offense and has a ton of speed, making Navy a real force. Unfortunately, they might have some trouble behind a weak offensive line.

Defense (D+)
Navy's offense better plan on holding the ball for 90% of their games, because their defense is just begging to be scored upon. The front seven is just brutal. The secondary isn't bad, led by Deliz, but they will probably get caught trying to help on run support all the time.

Special Teams (A-)
Two seniors will perform the kicking duties.

Overall (C)
Ball control will be the key to Navy's success. Their offense needs to work the clock, take care of the ball and score touchdowns. That is the only way they can win, because their defense will be a joke.

3) Army Black Knights (#106)

Last Season Record: 3-9
Postseason Result: DNQ

Impact Players
WR Jeremy Trimble [SR]
SS Caleb Campbell [SR]
QB David Pevoto [SR]

Offense (C)
Army is returning to their old triple-option offense, which will need efficient play from QB Pevoto, tough running by senior FB Mike Viti and slick ability from WR Trimble to equal success. They may struggle behind a terrible offensive line.

Defense (C-)
Campbell needs to be all over the field to have Army produce a successful defense, but he can't do it all. He won't have much help, so expect Army to give up a ton of points.

Special Teams (B-)
Fact --- Junior kicker Adam DeMarco is the worst kicker in the nation.

Overall (C-)
It will be a rough year for Army, but they can always look forward to the annual Army vs. Navy game.

[kblu54]

MAC's East Division will be a real toss-up
MAC News

The MAC will have one wild battle in the East.

The Ohio Bobcats won the division last season and open the year as the favorites, but they could definately fall prey to any of their East rivals. Some solid squads like Miami (Ohio) or Kent State could easily steal the East crown right out of Ohio's hands. And not only that, the East gained another member this year in the Temple Owls, making it now a 7-team battle royal.

Let's take a look at the 2007-08 MAC East Division teams, in order of predicted finish.

1) Ohio Bobcats (#89)

Last Season Record: 9-5 (7-1 MAC)
Postseason Result: Lost 28-7 to Southern Miss in GMAC Bowl

Impact Players
SS Todd Koenig [SR]
RB Kalvin McRae [SR]
DE Jameson Hartke [JR]

Offense (B-)
Ohio has a pretty solid offense, paced of course by McRae. McRae was one of the MAC's leading rushers last season and will be the player opposing defenses need to stop. Senior QB Brad Bower will have to give the Bobcats some balance but has two senior WRs to aim for. The offensive line is decent but has a lot of experience.

Defense (C+)
Ohio's defense actually has very few weak spots. The defensive line is awesome, and the secondary actually looks pretty solid except for their cornerback depth. The linebackers appear to be their only subpar part, but will solid teammates around them it shouldn't be too big of a problem.

Special Teams (B)
Two freshman are on tap to kick.

Overall (C+)
Ohio is coming in as the defending division champs and as the favorites to repeat. They need to bring it every game, especially against their hungry division rivals, to sew it up.

2) Miami (Ohio) Redhawks (#94)

Last Season Record: 2-10 (2-6)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Impact Players
RB Brandon Murphy [SR]
QB Mike Kokal [SR]
MLB Joey Hudson [JR]

Offense (B-)
How does a team that went 2-10 last season earn a 2nd-place prediction the following year? By bringing back a ton of seniors and a dominating offensive line. The Redhawks' backfield tandem of Kokal and Murphy will provide opposing defenses with a dangerous balance, and playing behind an experienced o-line should keep them healthy. The receivers are a little young but they have a bunch of talent.

Defense (C-)
The Redhawks' defense looks like a major weak spot. Hudson and senior DE Craig Mester are pretty good, but they seem to have a subpar support group. The secondary looks bad, the interior d-line is awful and the rest of the linebackers aren't helpful.

Special Teams (B+)
Sophomore kicker Trevor Cook earned a Preseason all-conference nod.

Overall (C)
Miami (Ohio) needs to have a great year offensively to defend this rank.

3) Kent State Golden Flashes (#96)

Last Season Record: 6-6 (5-3)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Impact Players
DT Colin Ferrell [SR]
TE Tom Sitko [SR]
SS Fritz Jacques [SR]

Offense (C+)
The Kent State offense is underrated. Junior QB Julian Edelman is a dual-threat playmaker, while sophomore RB Eugene Jarvis is a potential star. Sitko gives Edelman a main target, and the offensive line is just a tad past average.

Defense (C)
The good? Jacques, Ferrell and senior CB Jack Williams. The bad? The linebackers. The ugly? Every other corner besides Williams.

Special Teams (C+)
Some pretty below average sophomores form the kicking group.

Overall (C)
The offense should be okay, but the defense needs a lot of work past their top players. They could reach 6 wins though.

4) Akron Zips (#99)

Last Season Record: 5-7 (3-5)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Impact Players
WR Jabari Arthur [SR]
OLB Brion Stokes [SR]
CB Reggie Corner [SR]

Offense (C)
Akron has a bunch of decent skill guys and enough youth to provide a future foundation, but the offensive line is just terrible. Sophomore QB Carlton Jackson needs to find Arthur and senior TE Kris Kasparek quickly to avoid sacks, and junior RB Dennis Kennedy needs to provide relief in the run game.

Defense (C+)
Akron's defense might surprise a few teams in the MAC this year. The secondary is good (and deep!) and there is enough playmakers at the other levels to have confidence in. Stokes should cover any linebacker mistakes and could be a defensive player of the year candidate.

Special Teams (B)
The good news for next season is Akron has two kickers, a senior and a freshman. The bad news for this season is that the senior is barely better.

Overall (C)
Defense and health is the keys to Akron's success. Their offensive playmakers need to stay on the field to build off of the defense's stops.

5) Bowling Green Falcons (#102)

Last Season Record: 4-8 (3-5)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Impact Players
QB Anthony Turner [JR]
DE Diyral Briggs [JR]
RB Chris Bullock [SO]

Offense (C+)
Turner will lineup behind a very experienced offensive line, which will start 4 seniors and an NFL prospect in center Kory Lichtensteiger. He also has a bunch of targets to hit, like junior WR Corey Partridge and senior TE Sean O'Drobinak, but should get some relief in the rushing attack from Bullock.

Defense (C)
The defense has a balanced mixture of young and experienced starters, which may or may not be a good thing. Players like Briggs and junior CBs Antonio Smith and Kenny Lewis make them competitive, but weak spots at linebacker may be detrimental.

Special Teams (B+)
Two juniors with crazy last names will kick.

Overall (C+)
Offense will be the name of the game for Bowling Green. If they outscore their opponents, they will win... obviously. But seriously, they need their offense to dominate for them to have a shot.

6) Buffalo Bulls (#115)

Last Season Record: 2-10 (1-7)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Impact Players
SS Kareem Byrom [SR]
RB James Starks [SO]
FS Jesse Imes [SR]

Offense (D+)
Good players like Starks, sophomore WR Naaman Roosevelt and senior center Jamey Richard makes Buffalo fans smile. Players like junior QB Drew Willy and the rest of the o-line make Buffalo fans cringe.

Defense (C)
The secondary doesn't look bad, with two solid safeties and a talented and young group of corners. Unfortunately, senior DE Trevor Scott and junior MLB Ollice Ervin are the only good players in the front seven. If Buffalo can improve their run defense without sacrificing their solid pass defense, they can be competitive.

Special Teams (A-)
Buffalo has the best specialists unit in the East Division... and that's not saying much.

Overall (C)
Buffalo has a bunch of young studs but too many duds to contend.

7) Temple Owls (#118)

Last Season Record: 1-11 (independent)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Impact Players
DT Terrance Knighton [JR]
WR Bruce Francis [JR]
FS Georg Coleman [JR]

Offense (C)
Temple has a very average offense and has no real playmakers besides Francis. Junior center Alex Derenthal is great but anchors a poor line. Junior QB Adam DiMichele needs to step up for the Owls in their 1st year as a MAC squad.

Defense (C-)
Knighton and Coleman are the two lonely bright spots on a subpar defense.

Special Teams (B-)
A below average unit resides here.

Overall (C-)
Temple will probably have a very rough first season in the MAC. The one interesting thing about this program is the shockingly-low number of seniors --- 2. This team could be a serious force next season if everyone comes back.