NCAA Football Simulation Dynasty (Take 2)

[kblu54]

Trojans want to return to BCS title glory
Pac-10 News

The USC Trojans, coming off a 11-2 record and an impressive Rose Bowl victory, open the season at #1 in the nation and have the team to back it up. They will face some tough Pac-10 squads on the road to the BCS title game, but they should be able to stay unbeaten.

Fellow California-based programs like Cal and UCLA will challenge the Trojans, and if USC goes unbeaten, then one of them could be competing for a spot in the Rose Bowl.

Let's take a glance at the 2007-2008 Pac-10 programs, in order of predicted finish.

1) USC Trojans (#1)

Last Season Record: 11-2 (7-2 Pac-10) *Pac-10 Champions*
Postseason Result: Won 32-18 over Michigan in Rose Bowl

Top Players
MLB Keith Rivers [SR]
DT Sedrick Ellis [SR]
DE Lawrence Jackson [SR]
FS Taylor Mays [SO]
TE Fred Davis [SR]

Offense (B+)
USC's offense is very good. Preseason Heisman candidate senior QB John David Booty runs one of the most talented offenses in the nation, and will be protected by arguably the best o-line in the conference. Booty will be aided by the best tailback group in the nation, and will have a bunch of great receivers to aim for. The Trojans are also very experienced, with Booty being one of 6 offensive starters.

Defense (A)
Oh, you want defense? Don't worry, USC has got plenty of that too. USC could have one of the best defenses in the country this season. Lawrence and Ellis anchor an awesome d-line, and Rivers captains an experienced and talented linebacking corps. In the secondary, budding star Mays will be a great ball-hawking, hard-hitting safety with plenty of pass help like senior CB Terrell Thomas.

Special Teams (A+)
Junior kicker David Buehler is the perfect complement to a high-scoring offense.

Overall (A+)
Should we hand over the crystal ball now, or let the season play out? Fine, we'll play but expect USC to be in the conversation all year long.

2) California Golden Bears (#16)

Last Season Record: 10-3 (7-2 Pac-10)
Postseason Result: Won 45-10 over Texas A&M in Holiday Bowl

Top Players
WR DeSean Jackson [JR]
TE Craig Stevens [SR]
FS Thomas DeCoud [SR]
WR Lavelle Hawkins [SR]
RB Justin Forsett [SR]

Offense (A-)
Cal has a great balance on offense, with a strong passing game and a bruising run game. Forsett will be their bread-and-butter, but watch out for true freshman RB Jahvid Best to be their home run hitter. Junior QB Nate Longshore is a solid starter, but he won't need to do much with receivers like Jackson to dump off to and an excellent o-line to set up behind.

Defense (B-)
Surprisingly, Cal's defense pales in comparison to their offense. In a tough conference like the Pac-10, the Bears might find themselves struggling to stop some of their high-powered opponents. The d-line is decent, and the linebackers are pretty solid but DeCoud will need to keep his very young secondary mates focused against some of the Pac-10's pass-happy squads.

Special Teams (A-)
Senior punter Andrew Larson is a Preseason All-American.

Overall (B+)
Cal needs a lot of improvement on defense for them to seriously challenge the Trojans. If they can't do that, then improving just a little could mean a BCS bowl.

3) UCLA Bruins (#19)

Last Season Record: 7-6 (5-4 Pac-10)
Postseason Result: Lost 44-27 to Florida State in Emerald Bowl

Top Players
DE Bruce Davis [SR]
SS Chris Horton [SR]
DT Kevin Brown [SR]
CB Alterraun Verner [SO]
FS Dennis Keyes [SR]

Offense (C+)
The Bruins have a pretty mediocre offense, especially compared to the rest of the conference. They have a decent receiving group and an experienced (4 seniors) o-line, but will their backfield be good enough for them to contend? Junior QBs Pat Cowan and Ben Olson need to step up if the Bruins want to succeed in the pass game, and RBs senior Chris Markey and junior Khalil Bell need to keep defenses honest.

Defense (B-)
UCLA has a very senior-laden defense, but that doesn't mean it's even close to the best Pac-10 unit. Horton and Keyes give them some stability deep, Davis is a solid pass rusher and Verner is a young stud who is on the verge of becoming one of the conference's best. But an average linebacking corps, and very poor depth throughout the entire defense is a major cause for concern.

Special Teams (A+)
Redshirt freshman kicker Kai Forbath is already one of the nation's highest-rated kickers.

Overall (B)
UCLA may be a little overrated to start the season, but they still could churn out a decent season.

4) Oregon State Beavers (#31)

Last Season Record: 10-4 (6-3 Pac-10)
Postseason Result: Won 39-38 over Missouri in Brut Sun Bowl

Top Players
RB Yvenson Bernard [SR]
WR Sammie Stroughter [SR]
DE Dorian Smith [SR]
DE Slade Norris [JR]
WR Anthony Brown [SR]

Offense (B+)
Oregon State has a bunch of great skill players and a domianting offensive line. Bernard and Stroughter give the Beavers two serious offensive threats, which will keep Oregon State in every contest. The question mark is sophomore QB Sean Canfield, who needs to be efficient and careful with the ball to keep the Beavers competitive.

Defense (B-)
Positives: DE, OLB, CB and experience. The Beavers could be one of the best units at getting after the QB, but I do have some concerns about their pass defense. They have some decent corners and junior FS Al Afalava is pretty solid, but are they good enough to limit some decent Pac-10 pass attacks?

Special Teams (A+)
Senior kicker Alexis Serna was a Preseason all-conference pick.

Overall (B+)
Oregon State has a very talented squad and should compete well, but concerns at QB and on defense may hinder their shot at double-digit wins again.

5) Arizona State Sun Devils (#42)

Last Season Record: 7-6 (4-5 Pac-10)
Postseason Result: Lost 41-24 to Hawai'i in Hawai'i Bowl

Top Players
MLB Robert James [SR]
CB Justin Tryon [SR]
RB Ryan Torain [SR]
WR Michael Jones [JR]
FS Josh Barrett [SR]

Offense (B)
Arizona State has a very good mix on offense, with a solid tailback and some solid receivers to get the ball to. On top of all that, junior QB Rudy Carpenter is very solid and should be able to keep defenses off-balance by spreading the ball around. The exclamation point to this unit is an excellent o-line.

Defense (B-)
Barrett and Tryon headline a decent secondary, and James will be joined by two talented sophomore OLBs (Travis Goethel and Mike Nixon). I do have some concerns about the d-line though, as opposing teams could plow through them pretty easily.

Special Teams (B)
A redshirt freshman and a senior, both at about the same talent level, will do the kicking.

Overall (B-)
Arizona State is an intriguing squad that could go 9-3 or 3-9, depending on opposing teams' gameplans and their own play.

6) Oregon Ducks (#43)

Last Season Record: 7-6 (4-5 Pac-10)
Postseason Result: Lost 38-8 to BYU in Las Vegas Bowl

Top Players
RB Jonathan Stewart [JR]
QB Dennis Dixon [SR]
SS Patrick Chung [JR]
TE Ed Dickson [SO]
CB Jarius Byrd [SO]

Offense (A)
The Ducks will have a very explosive offense behind Coach Mike Bellotti's spread option attack, with the perfect QB to run it in senior Dennis Dixon. Dixon and Stewart form one of the Pac-10's most dynamic backfield duos, which will equal a ton of rushing yards and points. The senior signal-caller also has plenty of targets like 3 senior WRs and the talented Dickson. Oregon should also feel confident in their experienced and talented o-line.

Defense (B-)
The Oregon defense looks promising but they have an odd mix of experience and talent. Players like Chung and seniors DT David Faateete and OLB A.J. Tuitele provide the leadership and playmaking, but Oregon has a big weak spot at MLB. The DEs and the secondary has talent but some starters, like sophomore CBs Byrd and Walter Thurmond, are very young. Oregon needs to gel quickly to compete.

Special Teams (B+)
A pretty mediocre unit.

Overall (B+)
Oregon has the offense to take them to the next level, but can their defense catch up in time?

7) Arizona Wildcats (#48)

Last Season Record: 6-6 (4-5 Pac-10)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Top Players
CB Antoine Cason [SR]
OLB Spencer Larsen [SR]
CB Wilrey Fontenot [SR]
DE Louis Holmes [SR]
TE Rob Gronkowski [FR]

Offense (C+)
Arizona's offense has a bunch of talent, but how good can they be. Junior QB Willie Tuitama will be the guy at the helm, and the Wildcats look like they want to pass a lot. Their receivers are solid and Gronkowski is a freshman stud. Their o-line is decent too, but here's the big question: can they run the ball effectively? Is true freshman Nicholas Grigsby really the answer out of the backfield?

Defense (B)
On the other hand, Arizona's defense is very experienced and will be ready to overcome any offensive shortcoming. Cason is a shut-down corner just waiting to eat up opposing receivers, and Holmes leads an impressive d-line that could pressure opposing QBs into crucial mistakes. Not only that, but Larsen and Fontenot are other senior leaders that can make plays.

Special Teams (B+)
Congrats --- the worst unit in the conference belongs to 'Zona.

Overall (B-)
The Wildcats will need to play out of their minds to compete with the top Pac-10 squads, which they will need to do to reach 6 wins again.

8) Washington State Cougars (#51)

Last Season Record: 6-6 (4-5 Pac-10)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Top Players
DT Ropati Pitoitua [SR]
QB Alex Brink [SR]
WR Michael Bumpus [SR]
MLB Greg Trent [JR]
DE Matt Mullennix [SR]

Offense (B-)
Senior Alex Brink is a solid signal-caller and has a few top receivers like Bumpus to aim for, but where is his running game? Sophomore RB Dwight Tardy will be the starter, but can he really do damage against these Pac-10 defenses? Without balance, the Cougars will suffer. Not helping is a subpar and inexperenced o-line.

Defense (C)
WSU has a very average defense, which will get blasted in a conference like this. Pitoitua and Mullennix anchor an experienced d-line, and Trent patrols the middle well. But the Cougars have the worst secondary in the Pac-10, so opposing rivals will shred them easily.

Special Teams (C-)
A decent group of kickers.

Overall (C-)
Washington State is headed for the Pac-10 cellar.

9) Washington Huskies (#53)

Last Season Record: 5-7 (3-6 Pac-10)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Top Players
QB Jake Locker [FR]
DE Greyson Gunheim [SR]
TE Michael Gottlieb [JR]
RB Louis Rankin [SR]
DE Daniel Te'o-Nsheim [SO]

Offense (B-)
Locker is one of the more exciting young QBs to keep an eye on this season, and he will be assisted by a bunch of senior starters. Rankin and 5 senior WRs will give Locker a few much-needed experienced playmakers at his disposal, plus the o-line isn't bad. Still, Washington could struggle with a redshirt freshman at the helm.

Defense (C+)
I'm not too confident in this defense. The d-line isn't bad, but the back levels are pretty average. The secondary is especially weak, so I'm not sure if the Huskies will have what it takes to stop opponents. Still, Gunheim and Te'o-Nshuim will form a nice pass-rushing duo.

Special Teams (A-)
Sophomore kicker Ryan Perkins could develop into a clutch guy.

Overall (B-)
Locker has all the talent in the world, but can he stay healthy and off his back enough for Washington to reach .500? All preceding signs are pointing towards no.

10) Stanford Cardinal (#77)

Last Season Record: 1-11 (1-8 Pac-10)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Top Players
RB Toby Gerhart [SO]
WR Evan Moore [SR]
WR Mark Bradford [SR]
DE Udeme Odofia [SR]
QB T.C. Ostrander [SR]

Offense (C+)
Coach Jim Harbaugh suffered a 1-11 campaign last season, but his offense has taken some strides and may surprise a few teams this year. Ostrander is a solid vet for the Stanford offense, which will need him to be very efficient for them to climb out of the cellar. Junior RB Anthony Kimble, Gerhart, Moore and Bradford will provide the ability to score.

Defense (C)
Harbaugh has done a great job recruiting since he arrived at Stanford, bringing some top-notch defensive talent. Unfortunately, a lot of his players are pretty young and most won't see much of the field this season. The Cardinal defense is basically one big glaring weak spot, so they might have some trouble this season.

Special Teams (A-)
Two seniors on tap here, with punter Jay Ottovegio the most impressive.

Overall (C+)
Stanford will be out of the cellar this season, but a bowl game will be out of the question until next year.

[kblu54]

Florida's BCS title defense begins in tough SEC East
SEC News

The Florida Gators are coming off a surprising 41-14 domination of then-#1 Ohio State in the BCS National Championship, claiming their first national title in almost a decade and their 1st under coach Urban Meyer. The Gators lost a lot of seniors from last year's champions, but they still return an impressive squad that should put up a major fight on the road back to the BCS title game.

Florida will be looking for a the first repeat national championships since USC in 2003-2004, but they first will have to win in a tough SEC East Division. The Gators, who enter the season ranked #4, will have to fend off #15 Tennessee and #18 Georgia to win the SEC East.

Let's take a look at the 2007-2008 SEC East Division squads, in order of predicted finish.

1) Florida Gators (#4)

Last Season Record: 13-1 (7-1 SEC) *SEC/National Champions*
Postseason Result: Won 41-14 over Ohio State in BCS National Championship

Top Players
DE Derrick Harvey [JR]
WR Andre Caldwell [SR]
WR Percy Harvin [SO]
QB Tim Tebow [SO]
TE Cornelius Ingram [JR]

Offense (B+)
The Gators lost a bunch of seniors from their national title team last year, but they now have a very young and talented squad that could compete for several more years. Headlining the offense is super sophomores Tebow and Harvin, who fit perfectly in Urban Meyer's unique spread attack. Tebow will benefit from his talented group of receivers and a experienced o-line in his first full year as a starter.

Defense (B)
The Gators' youth continues on defense, where they will start only 3 upperclassmen (2 seniors and 1 junior). Seniors SS Tony Joiner, DT Clint McMillan and Harvey will try to keep this inexperienced but talented group on track. Watch out for young studs like sophomore MLB Brandon Spikes and true freshmen CB Joe Haden and FS Major Wright to play a big role this season.

Special Teams (B+)
Freshman Chas Henry is pretty good.

Overall (B)
Florida has a very good squad but I'm not sure if they can reach the BCS title game again. They will have a rough road and their young stars are good, but I can see one or two slip-ups along the way. Watch out for next season though.

2) Tennessee Volunteers (#15)

Last Season Record: 9-4 (5-3 SEC)
Postseason Result: Lost 20-10 to Penn State in Outback Bowl

Top Players
MLB Jerod Mayo [SR]
TE Brad Cottam [SR]
FS Eric Berry [FR]
QB Erik Ainge [SR]
DE Robert Ayers [JR]

Offense (B-)
The Tennessee offense has a bunch of good players, but I'm not sure where their strength will be. Ainge is a solid passer but has average receivers to throw to. The Volunteers have a bunch of top tailbacks, but who will get the bulk of the carries? Maybe the glue of the team will be their lineman, which has two experienced tackles and talented sophomore interior guys.

Defense (B)
The Tennessee defense is an intruiguing mix. Their d-line is pretty solid, with pass rushers like Ayers and senior DEs Antonio Reynolds and Xavier Mitchell plus run stoppers like sophomore DT Dan Williams. Mayo leads an okay group of linebackers, and Berry may be one of the more exciting freshmen in the country. Unfortunately, I am very concerned about their corners. Can Berry or senior SS Jonathan Hefney provide them enough deep support?

Special Teams (A)
Junior Britton Colquitt is near the top of the punter ranks on Mel Kiper, Jr.'s list.

Overall (B)
Tennessee could seriously challenge the young Gators for East supremacy, but they need to find their identity on offense first.

3) Georgia Bulldogs (#18)

Last Season Record: 9-4 (4-4 SEC)
Postseason Result: Won 31-24 over Virginia Tech in Chick-fil-A Bowl

Top Players
WR Mohamed Massaquoi [JR]
QB Matthew Stafford [SO]
RB Thomas Brown [SR]
SS Kelin Johnson [SR]
DE Marcus Howard [SR]

Offense (B+)
Sophomore QB Matthew Stafford will benefit from a great group of tailbacks and a bunch of experienced receivers, but seniors C Fernando Velasco and OG Chester Adams needs to keep their freshmen teammates on the o-line focused so Stafford can stay off his back. The Bulldogs' offense should have a nice balance.

Defense (B-)
Georgia only has 3 seniors on defense and a bunch of youngsters, including 2 freshman starters. Johnson needs to keep this above average defense on their assignments, because Georgia needs a strong effort from the defense to help out the developing offense. Howard and a deep rotation of DTs could be a good run support/pass rushing unit, which should help a young group of linebackers.

Special Teams (A+)
Senior kicker Brandon Coutu is outstanding.

Overall (B+)
Georgia has a very solid team but the high amount of youth is a concern. If the senior leaders on both sides can keep everyone on task, the Bulldogs will be a serious threat.

4) South Carolina Gamecocks (#32)

Last Season Record: 8-5 (3-5 SEC)
Postseason Result: Won 44-36 over Houston in Liberty Bowl

Top Players
RB Cory Boyd [SR]
OLB Eric Norwood [SO]
WR Kenny McKinley [JR]
MLB Jasper Brinkley [JR]
TE Jared Cook [SO]

Offense (B-)
Coach Steve Spurrier has an above average offense, but is it really ready to compete in this tough division? The Gamecocks have several potential stars like senior QB Blake Mitchell, Boyd and a pretty solid o-line, but I'm not sure if they're good enough to make a serious run. They could definately return to the bowl picture with this unit though.

Defense (B-)
The Gamecocks present a solid defensive unit, but I'm not sure they have a good enough group to compete. The d-line is average for the SEC, but the secondary looks pretty deep. Brinkley and sophomore DE Eric Norwood are potential NFL stars, so they could rattle some heads.

Special Teams (A+)
Junior kicker Ryan Succop needs a real pal --- his sophomore punter is just bad.

Overall (B)
A lot of talent, but seems to be not enough in this tough division. A second-straight 8-win season seems like a major possibility though.

5) Kentucky Wildcats (#39)

Last Season Record: 8-5 (4-4 SEC)
Postseason Result: Won 28-20 over Clemson in Music City Bowl

Top Players
OLB Wesley Woodyard [SR]
QB Andre' Woodson [SR]
WR Keenan Burton [SR]
TE Jacob Tamme [SR]
WR Steve Johnson [SR]

Offense (B+)
The key to the offense is very obvious. Woodson is one of the nation's most accurate passers, and he has a bunch of targets to throw to. Burton and Tamme should get catches in bunches, while senior RB Rafael Little will keep defenses in check on the ground. The huge issue with this offense is the offensive line, which could hinder everyone's production.

Defense (B-)
The Kentucky defense has a handful of top-notch players but some glaring weak positions. Woodyard and a pretty solid linebacking corps will try to join forces with junior DT Myron Pryor and sophomore CB Trevard Lindley, but the rest of the defense looks too average to compete.

Special Teams (B)
One of the lower-tier units in the conference.

Overall (B)
The Kentucky offense should be solid, if their o-line can block someone. The defense has a lot of holes, so they will probably not contend for the title. A bowl game is definately in the works.

6) Vanderbilt Commodores (#62)

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

Top Players
WR Earl Bennett [JR]
MLB Jonathan Goff [SR]
CB D.J. Moore [SO]
SS Reshard Langford [JR]
RB Cassen Jackson-Garrison [SR]

Offense (C+)
Someone get Earl Bennett the ball! The junior WR needs to make a ton of plays and score in bunches for this offense to matter, but smart defenses in this conference will probably limit that. Senior OT Chris Williams headlines a pretty solid and all-senior offensive line.

Defense (C+)
Can Goff get some help? The senior MLB will be trying to do everything himself, since Vandy's front seven looks shoddy. The Commodores have some talented sophomores at the corners and Langford deep, but it won't be enough to stop these SEC offenses.

Special Teams (D-)
An underrated group.

Overall (D+)
A C+ team couldn't compete in the SEC, let alone this below average squad. Getting to 4 wins again might be a stretch.

[kblu54]

LSU looking to upend SEC West foes, win SEC title and possibly more
SEC News

The LSU Tigers compiled an impressive 11-2 mark, but missed out on the SEC title game. Despite that, LSU still managed to sneak into a BCS bowl game, where they crushed Notre Dame 41-14 in the Sugar Bowl. This year, the Tigers bring back a talented and experienced squad looking for more than a shot at the SEC title.

LSU opens the year ranked #3 and wants the SEC title and possibly a shot at the national title, but first they must hold off defending SEC West champ Arkansas and a tough Auburn squad.

Let's take a look at the 2007-2008 SEC West Division teams, in order of predicted finish.

1) LSU Tigers (#3)

Last Season Record: 11-2 (6-2 SEC)
Postseason Result: Won 41-14 over Notre Dame in Sugar Bowl

Top Players
FB Jacob Hester [SR]
DT Glenn Dorsey [SR]
DE Tyson Jackson [JR]
CB Chevis Jackson [SR]
SS Craig Steltz [SR]

Offense (B+)
LSU has a very experienced and talented offense, and their balanced attack should keep defenses scrambling. Senior QB Matt Flynn will direct this group, aiming for top receivers like Doucet and handing off to Hester and two great sophomore backs (Keiland Williams and Charles Scott). The best asset to Flynn will be his protection, which is an outstanding group.

Defense (A-)
You want to see true SEC defense? Then LSU is the team for you. The Tigers have so many stars it's hard to keep track of them all. Dorsey and junior DE Tyson Jackson anchor a ferocious d-line, senior OLB Ali Highsmith represents some sick linebackers and 3 seniors lead arguably the best secondary in the nation. Anybody who plays LSU this year will have a tough time finding points.

Special Teams (A)
Junior kicker Colt David will be a very valuable asset in a tough conference like this.

Overall (A)
That overall rating says it all. LSU is the team to beat in the SEC this year. Period.

2) Arkansas Razorbacks (#10)

Last Season Record: 10-4 (7-1 SEC)
Postseason Result: Lost 17-14 to Wisconsin in Capital One Bowl

Top Players
RB Darren McFadden [JR]
DT Marcus Harrison [SR]
RB Felix Jones [JR]
WR Marcus Monk [JR]
MLB Weston Dacus [SR]

Offense (B)
You want to see a dominating backfield? Then watch as Heisman Trophy candidate McFadden and junior RB Felix Jones scamper all over defenses behind the blocking of senior FB Petyon Hillis. Arkansas should pound the ball in every game until someone stops them... but then they might be in trouble. Junior QB Casey Dick is very average and only has one good receiver (Monk) to aim for. Plus, the offensive line has a few weak spots slongside junior C Johathan Luigs and senior OT Nate Garner.

Defense (C+)
Arkansas' defense just seems to be missing something. They have some solid defenders like Harrison and three seniors in the secondary, but they have minimal depth. I'm afraid they won't be good enough as a full unit to capture the West again.

Special Teams (B+)
Junior Jeremy Davis will punt, and true freshman Alex Tejada will kick.

Overall (B)
The defending West champs seem to be missing too much to knock off the juggernaut Tigers. McFadden, of course, could change everything.

3) Auburn Tigers (#13)

Last Season Record: 11-2 (6-2 SEC)
Postseason Result: Won 17-14 over Nebraska in AT&T Cotton Bowl

Top Players
DE Quentin Groves [SR]
DT Josh Thompson [SR]
CB Patrick Lee [SR]
DT Pat Sims [JR]
CB Jonathan Wilhite [SR]

Offense (B-)
Does Auburn's offense have enough to make some noise in the SEC? I'm leaning slightly towards no. Senior QB Brandon Cox is solid, but how solid? Can their RB tandem of sophomore Ben Tate and junior Brad Lester be potent enough on the ground? Are their receivers good enough to make plays? Can their o-line play strong against some of the best d-lines in the country? There is a lot of questions the Tigers have to answer on offense.

Defense (B+)
Groves is a sackmaster. Three seniors captain a great secondary. Thompson and Sims anchor the interior. Sounds like there should be no issues right? That is until you notice I only mentioned 6 out of 11 starters... for a reason. Their linebackers are pretty average, and they will start 2 freshmen. Good, but not good enough.

Special Teams (B+)
The Tigers have two freshmen on tap for kicking duties.

Overall (B)
Auburn has a solid team, but they could get anywhere from 10 wins to 4.

4) Alabama Crimson Tide (#34)

Last Season Record: 6-7 (2-6 SEC)
Postseason Result: Lost 34-31 to Oklahoma State in Independence Bowl

Top Players
DE Wallace Gilberry [SR]
CB Simeon Castille [SR]
WR D.J. Hall [SR]
MLB Rolando McClain [FR]
CB/KR Javier Arenas [SO]

Offense (B-)
Alabama should have a pretty solid offense. Junior QB John Parker Wilson has a bunch of top receivers to throw to besides Hall, and he will be protected by an outstanding o-line. He will need some relief from the ground game, but the Tide will probably focus on the pass game.

Defense (B)
Alabama's defense looks pretty solid, and a bunch of senior leaders will help. Two talented youngsters will start (true freshman MLB Rolando McClain, sophomore CB Javier Arenas), which should be exciting. They have plenty of depth, so even after the seniors leave they should be okay.

Special Teams (A+)
Sophomore Leigh Tiffin, a son of a former Tide kicker, is very talented.

Overall (B)
Alabama is due for a good season and they should improve greatly from that brutal 6-7 campaign last year. They have enough tools to sneak up in the standings.

5) Mississippi State Bulldogs (#61)

Last Season Record: 3-9 (1-7 SEC)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Top Players
CB Derek Pegues [JR]
RB Anthony Dixon [SO]
WR Tony Burks [SR]
SS Keith Fitzhugh [JR]
OLB Gabe O'Neal [SR]

Offense (C+)
A true freshman QB and a sophomore RB behind an average offensive line? Uh-oh. QB Wesley Carroll will take his lumps, but Dixon has a ton of potential. Carroll does have a bunch of senior WRs and TEs to connect with, so his development could be smoother than expected. Still, I'm not expecting much from this average lineup.

Defense (C+)
Pegues is a top-notch corner and is only a junior. Can you get this guy some help? The Bulldogs have so many weaknesses that opposing offenses should have a field day picking them apart. Pegues will do his best to help, but QBs will probably avoid throwing to his side. Their front seven is especially bad, so good running teams could make noise as well against them.

Special Teams (B+)
Junior punter Blake McAdams can help out their subpar defense.

Overall (C+)
The offense is average and starting youngsters at QB and RB, while Pegues is the only defender worth mentioning. The Bulldogs might struggle to reach 3 wins again.

6) Ole Miss Rebels (#64)

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

Top Players
DT Peria Jerry [JR]
RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis [SR]
DE Greg Hardy [SO]
WR Mike Wallace [JR]
TE Robert Lane [SR]

Offense (B)
Ole Miss has a bunch of young playmakers and a solid offensive line, but senior QB Seth Adams looks iffy. Adams will start, but he will make Rebel fans wish highly-touted Jevan Snead didn't have to sit out his transfer year. Still, the Rebels could pull some upsets along the way, which will set the tone for next season. They have a bunch of young playmakers and a developing o-line.

Defense (B-)
This Ole Miss defense is pretty young and just beginning to discover their potential. Hardy and Jerry anchor a ferocious d-line, and Sanford patrols a pretty solid secondary. The linebackers are pretty young, but should improve during the season. Next season is looking promising.

Special Teams (A)
The Rebels have a nice group of specialists.

Overall (B)
Ole Miss should not be in the cellar long. This year they may take some hard shots, but next year they should have a year of experience in and be ready to challenge.

[kblu54]

Troy voted as favorite to win weak Sun Belt
Sun Belt News

The good news for Troy is that they are picked to win the Sun Belt title in 2007-2008. The bad news is that they are a triple-digit-ranked team and play in the worst conference in the FBS.

I guess Troy lucked out by being the highest ranked Sun Belt squad, checking in at #101. The Trojans are decent but they definately won't dominate this mediocre group. In reality, any of the 8 conference members could win the title this season.

Let's take a look at the 2007-2008 Sun Belt programs, in order of predicted finish.

1) Troy Trojans (#101)

Last Season Record: 8-5 (6-1 Sun Belt) *Co-Sun Belt Champions*
Postseason Result: Won 41-17 over Rice in New Orleans Bowl

Top Players
CB Leodis McKelvin [SR]
CB Sherrod Martin [JR]
DE Brandon Lang [SO]
WR Gary Banks [SR]
RB Kenny Cattouse [JR]

Offense (C+)
Troy's solid backfield tandem of senior QB Omar Haugabook and Cattouse could lift Troy to a 2nd-straight conference title. They run a spread attack that fits nicely with their personnel, but they need their o-line to be strong. In a conference like this, that probably won't be hard.

Defense (B-)
Troy's defense is pretty solid too, highlighted by junior FS Tavares Williams, McKelvin and a deep secondary. The defensive ends and linebackers aren't bad either. The Trojans have enough playmakers to wreck havoc in this conference.

Special Teams (B+)
Two 5th-year seniors are the specialists.

Overall (B-)
Troy is one of the defending co-champs and have a good enough squad to back up this prediction.

2) Arkansas State Indians (#105)

Last Season Record: 6-6 (4-3 Sun Belt)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Top Players
SS Tyrell Johnson [SR]
FS Khayyam Burns [SR]
TE David Johnson [JR]
CB Montis Harrison [SR]
DE Alex Carrington [SO]

Offense (C)
The Indians have a few solid starters on offense, which may be good enough for them to have success. Sophomore RB Reggie Arnold is a beast and should be one of the conference's top rushers, especially in their run-based attack. Johnson and senior WR Levi DeJohnette will hopefully make life easier for dual-threat sophomore QB Corey Leonard. Up front, junior OTs Kyle Koets and Matt Mandrich swept the Preseason All-Sun Belt 1st Team picks.

Defense (C+)
You won't be able to throw deep against them. You won't be able to run on their d-line. But a subpar linebacking corps may be their downfall. Johnson and Burns are the Sun Belt's best safety duo, and teaming with senior CB Montis Harrison makes them tough. Carrington and senior DT Curtis Bonds anchor a great d-line, but they will need their linebackers to improve.

Special Teams (B+)
A pretty solid unit of kickers here.

Overall (C+)
A solid team with a bunch of stars, making them a legit threat to Troy.

3) Florida Atlantic Owls (#107)

Last Season Record: 5-7 (4-3 Sun Belt)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Top Players
FS Taheem Acevedo [SR]
QB Rusty Smith [SO]
TE Jason Harmon [JR]
SS Kris Bartels [SR]
OLB Cergile Sincere [SR]

Offense (C)
Sophomore QB Rusty Smith is a good QB on an average team, so his production might be a little low. He has a young group of WRs, an average group of tailbacks and a very shaky o-line. Still, Harmon could be one of the best playmakers in the conference.

Defense (C)
Acevedo, Bartels and Sincere will have a tough time covering up the weak spots on this defense --- they're everywhere. The d-line looks average, the backers are worse and their corners don't look very helpful.

Special Teams (B+)
The Owls have one of the better units in the Sun Belt.

Overall (C)
The offense has some hope for the future but the defense looks awful. Still, nothing is out of the question in the Sun Belt.

4) Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders (#108)

Last Season Record: 7-6 (6-1 Sun Belt) *Co-Sun Belt Champions*
Postseason Result: Lost 31-14 to Central Michigan in Motor City Bowl

Top Players
DE Erik Walden [SR]
FS Damon Nickson [SR]
CB Bradley Robinson [SR]
TE Stephen Chicola [SR]
QB Joe Craddock [JR]

Offense (C)
The Blue Raiders actually have a pretty solid offense, with a respectable pass game and a potentially dangerous run attack. Craddock should connect with two senior TEs and senior WR Taron Henry early and often, while senior RB DeMarco McNair will keep defenses guessing.

Defense (C)
The d-line and secondary is very experienced and very good, but their linebackers are just brutal. Walden and Nickson need their respective units to dominate for the Raiders to contend.

Special Teams (C+)
One of the worst units in the nation.

Overall (C-)
The offense should be good this year and next, but the defense needs all their seniors to step up if they want a serious title run.

5) Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin' Cajuns (#110)

Last Season Record: 6-6 (3-4 Sun Belt)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Top Players
SS Lamar Morgan [SR]
RB Tyrell Fenroy [JR]
WR Derrick Smith [JR]
OLB Brenton Burkhalter [JR]
DE Rodney Hardeway [SR]

Offense (C)
UL-Lafayette has an interesting offensive group. Fenroy and Smith are their best playmakers, but junior QB Michael Desormeaux is a concern. Their offensive line is pretty young, so I'm not sure if they have a good enough unit. Hard to predict, but possible poor QB play could doom them.

Defense (C-)
Morgan will need a lot of help. The front seven and other secondary members are just plain bad. Do not expect much of anything from this unit.

Special Teams (B)
Not a very impressive unit, unless you're impressed at how bad they are.

Overall (C-)
Too few stars, too many issues. They will be middle of the pack if anything.

6) Louisiana-Monroe Warhawks (#111)

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

Top Players
RB Calvin Dawson [SR]
TE Zeek Zacharie [JR]
DE Aaron Morgan [SO]
WR LaGregory Sapp [JR]
QB Kinsmon Lancaster [JR]

Offense (C)
Dawson is arguably the most complete back in the conference. It's a shame he has to waste all that talent playing with this unit. The Warhawks have a subpar QB, average receivers and a below average line. It will be a rough year for scoring.

Defense (D+)
Not a good unit by any means. Morgan is a young star, but he is clearly the best player on this defense. Get this crazy piece of info: they will start 4 seniors and 7 sophomores!

Special Teams (B+)
Senior kicker Cole Wilson was voted the best returning kicker in the Sun Belt.

Overall (C-)
The funny thing is, despite how bad this Warhawks team is, they will probably not be the worst team in the conference. Hilarious, right?

7) North Texas Mean Green (#113)

Last Season Record: 3-9 (2-5 Sun Belt)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Top Players
RB Jamario Thomas [SR]
SS Aaron Weathers [SR]
WR Brandon Jackson [SR]
FS Roderick Cotton [SR]
OLB Maurice Holman [SR]

Offense (C-)
Thomas will keep North Texas competitive on the ground, but the passing game will go through some growing pains. True freshman Giovanni Vizza will start, but doesn't seem to have much to throw to and the o-line will probably give up a bunch of sacks.

Defense (C)
The Mean Green defense is actually pretty experienced, so they could be a sound group. The talent is a little low, but there's something about that senior year that makes everyone step their game up a little.

Special Teams (C+)
Another brutal unit, which may turn out to be a common Sun Belt theme.

Overall (C-)
Strong defense and the development of Vizza will bring North Texas out of the cellar. A bowl game seems unlikely though.

8) Florida International Golden Panthers (#117)

Last Season Record: 0-12 (0-7 Sun Belt)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Top Players
CB Lionell Singleton [SR]
RB Julian Reams [JR]
TE Eric Kirchenberg [JR]
OLB Scott Bryant [SO]
RB A'mod Ned [JR]

Offense (D)
New head coach Mario Cristobal is inheriting a developing program in only their 5th year as a FBS team, coming off an winless season. Not helping will be their shoddy offense. Reams and Ned form a solid RB tandem, but the Panthers will start a redshirt freshman at QB and will provide him with no weapons. It might be a tough year for the FIU offense.

Defense (D+)
If it wasn't for FIU's solid corners, they could be a serious contender for the Sun Belt's worst D. The front seven is awful and the safeties deep could use a lot of work. Points galore for opposing offenses!

Special Teams (B)
Two sophomores on board here, and they aren't that bad.

Overall (D+)
FIU is ready to take on all challengers. Who dares steal our spot at the bottom of the standings?

[kblu54]

Boise, Hawai'i to duke it out for WAC supremacy
WAC News

It literally will be a two-horse race in the WAC this season, as Boise State and Hawai'i will battle each other all the way to the finish. It will definately be an exciting finish, as both programs will close out their conference schedules against each other, which will determine the conference champion.

The Broncos are the favorites, coming in as the defending champs and off a perfect 13-0 season, including one of the greatest bowl game upsets ever. Boise State used several trick plays down the stretch to upset Oklahoma 43-42 in overtime of the Fiesta Bowl.

Hawai'i will put up a major fight though, hoping to knock Boise State off and win the WAC title. The Warriors are paced by their all-out pass attack, which will have a bunch of weapons.

Let's take a look at the 2007-2008 WAC teams, in order of predicted finish.

1) Boise StateBroncos (#23)

Last Season Record: 13-0 (8-0 WAC) *WAC Champions*
Postseason Result: Won 43-42 (OT) over Oklahoma in Fiesta Bowl

Top Players
FS Marty Tadman [SR]
CB Orlando Scandrick [JR]
RB Ian Johnson [JR]
CB Austin Smith [SR]
WR Jeremy Childs [SO]

Offense (B-)
Boise State has an offense built to run the ball, which is odd for a WAC member. Johnson is a bruising tailback and will have plenty of holes made from a dominating and experienced (3 seniors, 2 juniors) offensive line. The Broncos may be pretty balanced too, with senior QB Taylor Tharp connecting with a nice group of receivers.

Defense (C+)
The secondary looks great. The front seven? Not so much. The Broncos will need to get a serious pass rush in this pass-happy conference, but I'm not sure if they can do it with this group. The secondary seems ready to take on all challengers, which provides hope.

Special Teams (B-)
Two average freshman are slotted for the kicking duties.

Overall (B-)
Boise State has a good squad, but can they really hold off the upstart Warriors? It will be an interesting road to a repeat.

2) Hawai'iWarriors (#26)

Last Season Record: 11-3 (7-1 WAC)
Postseason Result: Won 41-24 over Arizona State in Hawai'i Bowl

Top Players
QB Colt Brennan [SR]
WR Davone Bess [JR]
WR Jason Rivers [SR]
DE David Veikune [JR]
WR Ryan Grice-Mullen [JR]

Offense (B+)
Look out folks. Record-setting TD-machine Brennan is looking to light up opposing defenses for tons of passing TDs this season, after tossing an NCAA-record 58 last season. Brennan has plenty of weapons to utilize like WRs Bess, Rivers and Grice-Mullen, plus an excellent o-line to set up behind. Hawai'i should rack up points in bunches with their pass-heavy attack.

Defense (C+)
The Warriors are very balanced and experienced on defense, with only no starters younger than a junior. The front seven looks solid and the secondary has the right stuff. This unit could be an underrated asset to their success.

Special Teams (B)
Two juniors will kick... but will they even need them? Hawai'i will rack up TDs by the truckloads.

Overall (B-)
If Boise State wasn't the defending champs, Hawai'i would be the clear favorites. They open the season just outside the Top 25, but they will change that quickly.

3) NevadaWolfpack (#74)

Last Season Record: 8-5 (5-3 WAC)
Postseason Result: Lost 21-20 to Miami in MPC Computers Bowl

Top Players
OLB Ezra Butler [SR]
WR Marko Mitchell [JR]
WR Mike McCoy [JR]
WR Kyle Sammons [SR]
SS Justin Jackson [SR]

Offense (C+)
A changing of the guard is happening at Nevada, where they will probably look to run more often with redshirt freshman dual-threat QB Colin Kaepernick running the show. Kaepernick gives Nevada a much-needed offensive threat, and he will be joined by a bunch of solid playmakers. Mitchell, McCoy and Sammons look good, as does sophomore RB Luke Lippincott and redshirt freshman FB Vai Taua. Unfortunately, the o-line is a bit of a concern.

Defense (C+)
Nevada seems to have one decent starter at each position, which creates a good balance. The worrisome part is that they don't have any stars and seem to be very average as a group. They might struggle in this high-flying conference... but just a little.

Special Teams (B)
Junior kicker Brett Jaekle was voted to the Preseason All-WAC team.

Overall (C+)
Nevada has a very solid squad, especially on offense, but I don't think they have enough to challenge... yet. Next year could be a completely different story.

4) San Jose StateSpartans (#80)

Last Season Record: 9-4 (5-3 WAC)
Postseason Result: Won 20-12 over New Mexico in New Mexico Bowl

Top Players
CB Dwight Lowery [SR]
DT Jarron Gilbert [JR]
OLB Matt Castelo [SR]
CB Christopher Owens [JR]
DE Justin Cole [SO]

Offense (D+)
Senior QB Adam Tafralis is a very experienced signal-caller, but he is not surrounded by very good talent. The o-line is brutal, and none of the skill guys seem like they can make a play consistently. Could be an up-and-down year for them.

Defense (C+)
You can usually cover up a poor offense with a solid defense, and San Jose State makes a respectable effort at that. Most of the front seven looks solid (minus MLB) and their cornerbacks are good. Senior CB Dwight Lowery is arguably the best defensive player in the conference, but he will need this deep safeties to really improve.

Special Teams (B)
Senior punter Waylon Prather (6'3, 220 lbs.) is built like a linebacker.

Overall (C)
Their offense will keep them down too much to overcome. Their defense might push them to at least 6 wins though.

5) Fresno StateBulldogs (#84)

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

Top Players
DT Jason Shirley [SR]
TE Bear Pascoe [JR]
QB Tom Brandstater [JR]
CB Damon Jenkins [SR]
OLB Marcus Riley [SR]

Offense (B-)
Fresno State has a solid QB (Brandstater), some young playmakers (4 tough tailbacks and Pascoe at TE) and a decent o-line. Where they go this season will really depend on their offensive production. They should be able to beat a bunch of conference squads and could easily finish 3rd.

Defense (C+)
Solid and experienced front seven. A semi-young secondary. The key for them is the leadership of senior CB Damon Jenkins, who must keep his sophomore defensive back teammates focused against their pass-happy rivals. Shirley and a tough d-line should help out Riley and a mediocre linebacking unit.

Special Teams (A)
The best unit in the conference, featuring Preseason all-conference seniors kicker Clint Stitser and punter Kyle Zimmerman.

Overall (B-)
Possibly the only other serious challenger for the WAC crown. They won't win it, but they'll surprise a few.

6) New Mexico State Aggies (#100)

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

Top Players
QB Chase Holbrook [JR]
WR Chris Williams [JR]
FS Cole Marton [SR]
RB Justin Buries [SR]
WR Derek Dubois [SR]

Offense (B-)
One of the top units in the conferences, thanks to their all-out passing attack. Holbrook is 2nd only to Hawai'i's Brennan in the WAC, and he also has receiver weapons like Williams and Dubois to deploy. Buries is a solid runner but will be more important catching passes out of the backfield. One slight issue may be a subpar o-line.

Defense (C-)
Their offense will score a ton but the defense will allow opponents to do the same. Marton really is the only bright spot on this subpar unit.

Special Teams (B-)
A senior and a freshman on the roster, but neither of them are any good.

Overall (C)
The Aggies are destined for shootouts --- most of them they won't win.

7) Louisiana TechBulldogs (#112)

Last Season Record: 3-10 (1-7 WAC)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Top Players
SS Deon Young [SO]
DT D'Anthony Smith [SO]
DT Joshua Muse [SR]
QB Zac Champion [SR]
DE Chris Pugh [SR]

Offense (D+)
Champion will try to have the Bulldogs live up to his name, but he won't be able to do well behind a concerning o-line. He doesn't have many playmakers to utilize either, but junior WR Philip Beck could be his go-to guy.

Defense (C)
Smith and Muse form a solid interior tandem, plus Pugh gives them a nice edge rusher. Young anchors a decent secondary, but their mediocre linebacking group took a huge hit during training camp. Senior MLB Brannon Jackson suffered a major injury and will redshirt this season, so the Bulldogs will have to make due without him.

Special Teams (B-)
Really? Your senior kicker is that bad?

Overall (C-)
The Bulldogs have a lot of weak spots. How many wins did they get last year, 3? Yeah that seems about right.

8) Utah State Aggies (#114)

Last Season Record: 1-11 (1-7 WAC)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Top Players
WR Kevin Robinson [SR]
QB Leon Jackson III [SR]
MLB Jake Hutton [JR]
CB Joshua Taylor [JR]
OLB De'Von Hall [JR]

Offense (C)
Jackson is a fast dual-threat QB and Robinson has a lot of talent. Unfortunately, this Aggie offense doesn't have anything else. Although, senior OG Shawn Murphy is a nice asset up front.

Defense (C-)
The front seven is bad, and the secondary is worse. The good news is they only have 3 senior starters, so next year could be better.

Special Teams (B-)
A below average sophomore will kick, but true freshman punter Peter Caldwell has some skills.

Overall (C-)
Utah State is definately better than 1 win. They are good enough for 2.

9) IdahoVandals (#116)

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

Top Players
OLB David Vobora [SR]
TE Eddie Williams [JR]
DE Ben Alexander [SR]
DT Siua Musika [SR]
CB Stanley Franks [SR]

Offense (C-)
Williams better have one heck of a season, because this Vandal offense looks pretty bad otherwise. The backfield is pretty young, with sophomore QB Nathan Enderle running the show and freshman RB Deonte Jackson running the ball. One young player to watch is OG Mike Iupati.

Defense (C)
A pretty senior-laden defense, but beyond that is rough. Vobora and Franks are pretty good though.

Special Teams (C)
Probably the worst combined unit in the conference.

Overall (D+)
Most teams just have that championship "look". Idaho's look doesn't look anything like that.

[kblu54]

1) Tennessee, Cal to open season with highly-anticipated, ranked battle

What's a better way to open a new college football season than pitting two Top 25-ranked opponents against each other on national TV? That's exactly what #15 Tennessee and #16 California will do to open the 2007-2008 season. The Volunteers will travel across the country to take on the Golden Bears in Berkeley, live on ABC.

2) Big paycheck, big blowout

One of the new developments in early-season scheduling has been the battles between powerhouse FBS programs and lower-division FCS teams. Teams will shell out a boatload of money to FCS squads just to come and get destroyed in a lopsided blowout. Many of the Top 25 teams, and even a few unranked squads, will play non-conference games against FCS opponents. Teams like #2 Michigan, #12 Ohio State, #4 Florida and #23 Boise State will open their campaigns like this.

3) Heisman Trophy race starts

The race for the coveted Heisman Trophy begins this week, and some of the preseason candidates have chances to make some solid early statements. Top candidate Arkansas RB Darren McFadden should run wild against Troy. USC QB John David Booty should be able to shred a subpar Idaho defense. West Virginia RB Steve Slaton could have a big game against Western Michigan. These three and many more players hoping to have great seasons need to get off to a good start.

4) Conference battles starting early

Several conferences will have some tough battles already to start the season, specifically the ACC and the SEC. #21 Florida State travels to face Clemson, #25 Boston College hosts Wake Forest and #3 LSU opens the year at Mississippi State. These early-season conference matchups are pretty important.

5) Unranked but heated battles

Some games not on the docket or Top 25 list are still pretty important matchups. One in particular is Illinois @ Missouri, two upstart teams with good offenses looking to make an early-season statement. Winning these key battles for some teams could mean the difference between a bowl game or not.

[kblu54]

Week 1 Top 25 Schedule
(Note: Gold = Game of the Week, Bold = National broadcast)

Weber State @ #23 Boise State	Thurs. 6:30 pm
#3 LSU @ Mississippi State	Thurs. 7:30 pm
Buffalo @ #20 Rutgers	Thurs. 7:30 pm
Murray State @ #11 Louisville	Thurs. 7:30 pm
ECU @ #9 Virginia Tech	Sat. 12:30 pm
Western Michigan @ #6 West Virginia	Sat. 12:30 pm
North Texas @ #8 Oklahoma	Sat. 12:30 pm
Appalachian State @ #2 Michigan	Sat. 12:30 pm
Oklahoma State @ #18 Georgia	Sat. 12:30 pm
Nevada @ #14 Nebraska	Sat. 12:30 pm
Wake Forest @ #25 Boston College	Sat. 12:30 pm
Kansas State @ #13 Auburn	Sat. 12:30 pm
Troy @ #10 Arkansas	Sat. 12:30 pm
FIU @ #17 Penn State	Sat. 3:00 pm
Youngstown State @ #12 Ohio State	Sat. 3:30 pm
Arkansas State @ #5 Texas	Sat. 3:30 pm
#19 UCLA @ Stanford	Sat. 3:30 pm
Washington State @ #7 Wisconsin	Sat. 3:30 pm
Western Kentucky @ #4 Florida	Sat. 6:00 pm
Baylor @ #22 TCU	Sat. 6:00 pm
#15 Tennessee @ #16 California	Sat. 6:00 pm
Idaho @ #1 USC	Sat. 6:30 pm
Montana State @ #24 Texas A&M	Sat. 7:00 pm
#21 Florida State @ Clemson	Sun. 8:00 pm

[kblu54]

Tennessee, Cal to open year with big SEC/Pac-10 showdown
NCAA Football News

Let the fireworks fly.

The 15th-ranked Tennessee Volunteers travel west this weekend to take on the 16th-ranked Golden Bears of California in a highly-anticipated matchup between teams predicted to finish high in their respective BCS conferences.

Tennessee was picked to finish 2nd in the SEC East this year behind defending national champion Florida, but the Volunteers are out to prove they are better than that. With Florida rebuilding with several young starters, this could be a good opportunity for Tennessee to grab a share of momentum in the early-going. Knocking off Cal on the road will be a big step for them. Tennessee has a solid defense, but it will be the play of senior QB Erik Ainge and the offense that will determine their chances in this game.

Cal has one of the better offenses in the country, bringing back speedsters like junior WR DeSean Jackson and a bruising RB in senior Justin Forsett. If junior QB Nate Longshore can play well against a good Tennessee defense, then the Bears should be able to ride to a home victory.

This should be a good game, and I'm liking the chances for a high-scoring battle. With Cal at home and boasting a good offense, I'm picking them to take this one.

Tennessee	Team Ratings	California
B	Overall	B+
B-	Offense	A-
B	Defense	B-

Prediction: #16 California 35, #15 Tennessee 28