NCAA Football

[RayAllen20]

Game: NCAA Football 11
Rosters: OS rosters from EA Locker
Sliders: Undecided

In this dynasty I will not use any specific teams. I will just go around the NCAA playing the top games, and reporting on College Football. I also hope to do an NFL Football thread, in which this thread and that on will correspond with each other.

Now for the season preview, Athlon Sports' top 25 has been released:



Star C.J. Spiller is gone, and there are question marks whether sophomore QB Kyle Parker will return or play professional baseball. Even with these question marks, Clemson can replace Spiller with two solid backs in Andre Ellington and Jamie Harper who combined, averaged 6.2 yards per carry. Red Shirt QB Tahj Boyd is inexperienced but skilled and may have to start if Parker bolts. The defense is lead by DeAndre McDaniel at safety who picked off 8 balls last year, and DT Jarvis Jenkins who is a potential 1st round draft pick in the NFL.

There are too many question marks in Clemson for them to be considered one of the favorites in the ACC, but if Parker returns and their running backs replace Spiller well, then the Tigers could be making some noise.




The defense should be fine in Baton Rouge with speedy defensive end Sam Montgomery and one of the premier line backers in the SEC in Kelvin Sheppard. But the offense is a big question mark. They ranked 112th in the nation in yards per game, and their best playmaker RB Charles Scott is gone. QB Jordan Jefferson had a bumpy road during his 2009 season, and will need to reach his potential if the Tigers hope to contend in the SEC. Him and WR Terrance Toliver will need to find each other often, as Toliver can break out as a star wide out for this squad.

The Tigers offense will need to step it up for the 2010 season, or else they will be dominated by Alabama in the SEC West.




QB Daryll Clark graduated from Penn State last year, after having the best season ever for a Penn State quarter back. Now question marks surround the QB position as either sophomore Kevin Newsome will start, or possibly some freshmen. Whoever is the QB will get help though, as Penn State has weapons on the offensive end. The Penn State offensive line is solid lead by Center Stefen Wisniweski, and WR Derek Moye is a big play wide out. If Evan Royster can rebound from a somewhat disappointing season as a tail back last year, the Penn State offense could be a tough match-up for opposing Big 10 defenses. The Penn State defense lost star DT Jared Odrick and LB Navorro Bowman to the NFL, and now their defense looks to have problems.

The defense and the QB position could be problems for Penn State, but if they are solved well, the Nittany Lions can continue to be a dominant team in the Big 10.




Auburn's spread no-huddle offense, shocked many, as it scored over 33 points per game, and the Tigers were easily bowl eligible. However, the offense may not be as good this year as QB Chris Todd has graduated. Now, Florida transfer QB Cameron Newton looks to be the starter. He is 6'6 and has a cannon for an arm. Newton will get help in the backfield with RB Mario Fannin, who was a solid back-up last year. The Tigers' defense was a big problem for them last year, but Auburn hopes it is a strength this year. Eight starters return, and there should be improvement.

The offensive system seemed to work last year at Auburn, but the defense did not. If QB Cameron Newton can run the offense well, and the defense improves, Auburn could be in the SEC title hunt.




The Mizzou offense last year was one of the best in the nation. QB Blaine Gabbert is the signal caller for the Tigers and ran their spread offense extremely well as a first time starter last year. Gabbert's top receiver WR Danario Alexander has graduated, after a fantastic senior season. He will be missed for his 14 TDs last year, but HB Derrick Washington returns after scoring 10 TDs in 2009. Gabbert and Washington will sure give the Tigers an exciting offense, but the offense hasn't been the problem lately for Missouri. The defense has continually been lousy, forcing the Tigers to get into shoot outs. Still, the defense has some hope this year, as sophomore defensive end Aldon Smith returns, after breaking the school's sack record.

The offense should be fun to watch, and if the defense comes to play, Missouri could be in the Big 12 title game.




A weak Big East, and 16 returning starters has fans in Storrs, Connecticut believing. The Huskies love to run the ball, and with HB Jordan Todman and a fantastic offensive line lead by RG Zach Hurd, they have no problem doing it. Todman had over 5 100 yard rushing performances last year, including 162 yards at Cincinatti and 130 at Notre Dame. The QB position is the biggest question mark, as Zach Frazer returns after struggling last year. If Frazer can get the Huskies throwing game going, the rest of the Big East is in trouble. The defense wasn't a unit that scared many offenses last year, but they look to be better this season as LB Lawrence Wilson returns after a solid season last year.

With a weak schedule, including the toughest game of the year against Pitt at home, the Huskies can reach a BCS bowl this year. To do so, Frazer will need to be consistent for UConn, and the defense will have to improve.




You can bet opposing offensive coordinators get nervous when they see North Carolina up on their schedule. The Tar Heel defense might be the best in the nation, loaded with future first round NFL draft picks. Defensive end Robert Quinn returns after an 11 sack season, and their line backing core is dominant with Bruce Carter and Quan Sturdivant. The offense is the problem in Chapel Hill, but fifth year senior QB T.J. Yates may solve that. Yates has the talent but will need to cut down on his 15 interceptions last year. If he can do that, and HBs Ryan Houston and Shaun Draughn can keep the defense honest, the offense could surprise some folks.

The ACC is wide open this year, and UNC has by far the best defense in the conference. If the offense can stay up to par, the Tar Heels will rise up the polls.



The Pittsburgh Panthers won't make you jump out of your seat, but they are still the favorite to win the Big East title due to some weak competition in the northeast for college football. If they do capture that Big East crown, they will most likely thank Dion Lewis. Lewis was a phenom as a freshman at tailback, winning National Freshman of the Year, Big East Offensive Player of the Year, and many more honors, due to his 1,799 yards which were 3rd in the nation. Lewis may not have much help offensively though, especially with QB Bill Stull gone. Now Tino Sunseri will take over under center, and the Panther's season may be in his hands. Pitt's defense has always been one of their strengths, and they came in 23rd in the nation last year. Some players have graduated, but their defensive line is still strong, and so is their line backing core. DE Jabaal Sheard and DE Greg Romeous can pile up the sacks, and keep QBs on their toes.


If Sunseri can keep defenses honest, and allow Lewis to continue to be successful, the Panthers can far.




QB Ryan Mallet, is on everyone's watch. NFL Scouts are interested, and defensive coordinators are interested as well (too bad they're trying to stop him). Last year he broke school records, as his Razorbacks finished 9th in the nation on offense. His wideouts return and with head coach Bobby Petrino, the Hogs will be lighting up teams on the scoreboard. Problem is, other teams will be doing the same to them....on defense. The Razorbacks gave up over 400 yards per game last year, and while their linebacking core is very good, the defensive line and secondary could be eaten alive.

Mallet and the Arkansas offense will provide much excitement to fans across the country, but for Razorback fans to be happy, their defense must improve.




Big 10 offensive player of the year, John Clay returns and after shredding Big Ten opponents, him and his Badgers are hungry to take down the top dogs in their conference. Clay averaged over 100 yards per game, and he had help from the passing game as well. QB Scott Tolzien, now a Senior, was the most efficient Big 10 QB last year, although he still needs to cut down on his 16 interceptions. The offensive line is all back, and they should be giving Clay big holes to run through. But once again the defense seems to be the problem. Wisconsin's secondary gave up too many big plays, and it hurt the Badgers in Big 10 play.

If they can cut down on the TD receptions for opponents, then the Badgers will be turning heads in their conference.




A.J. Green is a superstar wideout and on NFL scouts' radars. Yet, his production may slow down this year, due to inexperience at QB. Logan Gray will be under the center for the first time as a starter, and no one is quite sure how it will work. It seems as though the Bulldogs will pound the rock. 4 offensive linemen come back, and 'backs Washaun Ealey and Caleb King were productive, even in the rough SEC. The defense for Georgia, was solid in 2010, and looks to be a tough matchup for offenses. The only big weakness in their new 3-4 defense, may be their secondary. Despite standout corner Brandon Boykin, teams should be able to air it out against Georgia.

The keys to a very talented Bulldog team are in Logan Gray's hands, and whether he can handle SEC play, will decide this team's fate. Hopefully A.J. Green will make his season go smoothly.




It may have taken them a little while, but the 'U' is back! Junior Jacory Harris returns after a solid but sometimes shaky sophomore year. While he did throw 24 TDs, he was intercepted 17 times. The backfield will be tough to handle, lead by Damien Berry making this offense scary, if Harris is playing to his potential. The defense is where the Hurricanes shine, with DE Allen Bailey returning after 7 sacks and much of the defense returning that finished the season on a high note.

After a year of experience, Harris should be ready to handle the 'Canes, and get them back to where the 'U' belongs. However, if the interceptions continue, then Miami will return back to mediocrity.




Bobby Bowden is out, Jimbo Fisher in, and the Seminoles hope to start actually reaching their expectations, rather than falling short of them as they have recently. QB Christian Ponder can get this team to the ACC championship game, after a brilliant season last year that was shadowed by injury. HB Jermaine Thomas, and a solid offensive line, will help Ponder by pounding the ball on the ground. Under Fisher, this offense could be the best in the ACC, but the defense isn't looking too good. While CB Greg Reid will be shutting down wideouts, no pressure makes it hard on him. The Seminoles were terrible at getting sacks last year, and their defense ranked last in the ACC because of it.

The Seminole offense could be almost unstoppable this season, while their defense may be unbearable. However, with CB Reid, and some improvement from their D-Line, Florida State could be making some noise.




Perfection was close for the Iowa Hawkeyes, but with an injury to Ricky Stanzi they lost to Northwestern, and then lost the Big 10 title. However, Stanzi is back and when he is under the center this team knows how to win. A trio of backs will help him out, with Adam Robinson, Brandon Wegher, and Jewel Hampton all fighting for carries, and the good news for the Hawkeyes is that they are all talented. But if the offense is good, then this defense is scary. DE Adrian Clayborn is an All-American candidate after 11.5 sacks, and SS Tyler Sash is a playmaking safety who QBs must be aware of.

If Stanzi can stay healthy, and the offense can produce enough for the defense to get the job done, then the Hawkeyes may just get their revenge on the rest of the Big 10.




TCU just missed perfection is their lost to Boise State, but this season they have the greatest chance at making history. They are ranked high enough to possibly make a run at the championship. QB Andy Dalton has shattered records at TCU, and returns to do more. He threw for 23 TDs, and dominated Mountain West defenses. The run game shouldn't struggle at all with Matheww Tucker and other backs returning, plus WR Jeremy Kerley gives TCU the playmaker they need. The defense lost Jerry Hughes, their sack machine, but the Horned Frogs always seems to have a solid defense.

The Mountain West is always competitive but the Frogs think it is theirs. If they can replace Hughes on defense, and Dalton continues his success, it very well should be.




Dual threat QB Tyrod Taylor and HB Ryan Williams will be a duo to watch come football season. Taylor continues to improve, and threw for 13 TDs last year. Add in his running abilities, and he keeps defenses on their toes. He can't run quite like Ryan Williams though, who ran for 1,655 yards and recorded 21 TDs. The defense lost a lot, but they always play 'Beamer Ball'. CB Rashard Carmichael is a stand out with 6 picks last year, and LB Barquell Rivers racks up tackles.

Taylor needs to be more of a throwing QB, and the defense needs to withstand their losses. If that happens, the Hokies will be tearing the ACC up.




The Ducks were the Pac-10 favorite, and national contenders. That was until Jeremiah Masoli and LaMichael James got into a little off-season trouble, and Masoli got kicked of the team. Standout HB James will return though after piling up 14 TDs last season. WR Jeff Maehl joins James as playmakers on this offense, as the go-to threat. The problem is, that Nate Costa will have to replace Heisman candidate Masoli, after only throwing 1 TD in his Oregon career. Still, Costa has plenty of talent, and will be protected by 5 returning line-men. The Ducks do have weaknesses on defense up front and in the secondary, although DE Kenny Rowe returns after 11.5 sacks.

Thanks to suspensions, Oregon isn't the favorite of anything anymore. But if Costa can replace Masoli well, and the defense can be reliable, then the Ducks could still be contenders.





The duo of Colt McCoy and Jordan Shipley will be missed. But usher in the Garret Gilbert era, the sophomore QB who was last seen battling Alabama in the championship game. The 5-star recruit Gilbert won't be the main attraction on offense though, as the Longhorns look to run the ball more. Tre' Newton and Cody Johnson, look to take care of that, after struggling a little bit in the pass heavy offense. The Longhorn defense lost a decent amount of players, but this side of the ball is still feared. DE Sam Acho returns after a 10 sack season, Safety Blake Gideo has 6 interceptions, and LB Keenan Robinson is a stud.

Gilbert will need to live up to his predecessor in Colt McCoy, and the running game needs to get going, if the Longhorns want to be back in the championship game.




After some average offense last year, QB Zac Lee needs to improve for this Cornhusker team to return to greatness, and HB Roy Helu Jr. must carry the load and once again get into the double digits in the Touchdown category. Nebaraska's offense isn't loaded, but hopefully they will get the job done. The defense though, is what scares teams. The Blackshirts have lost DT Suh, who opened eyes last year dominating offensive lines. Luckily, DT Jared Crick can possibly replace him. The 6'6 monster was almost as effective as Suh last year, and now returns to ruin offensive gameplans. Also, CB Prince Amukamara may be the best in the Big 12 this year. And Kicker Alex Henery may be the best in the nation.

Zac Lee and the Cornhusker offense will need to do better than 99th in the nation, and pick it up for their stingy defense which was 1st in points allowed.




Congratulations, John Brantley! You get the impossible challenge of replacing gridiron legend Tim Tebow. The junior QB, may not be Tebow, but he is still talented with a rocket arm. And on offense, he has some playmakers. Jeff Demps can create a touchdown out of nothing, with his blazing speed, and Chris Rainey will turn into WR this year, and play as Percy Harvin did when he was a Gator. The offensive line also will be tough to match-up against in Gainesville, but the defense could be the problem. Joe Haden, Brandon Spikes, and Carlos Dunlap are gone. Still, SS Ahmad Black and LB A.J. Jones are good enough to keep this defense among the best in the SEC.

Brantley will need to provide his big-play threats with the ball, and the defense will have to fill their holes, or the Gators will get lost in a stacked SEC.




When Sam Bradford was injured last year, it was Landry Jones who replaced him as a freshman throwing 26 TDs to 14 INTs. That's pretty good for a freshman but not what the Sooners are looking for, as they failed to reach a BCS Bowl. However, Jones has high expecatations this year to develop and lead the Sooners to a Big 12 title. HB/WR DeMarco Murray is a home run threat, who will help Jones out by making big plays. Also, Jones will have WR Ryan Broyles to throw to, after his 15 TD performance last year. The defense lost a lot to the NFL last year. Gerald McCoy, Dominique Franks, and Ryan Reynolds all left. But DE Jeremy Beal, who had 11 sacks left year, and FS Quinton Carter return to possibly make the Sooners a feared defense.

If Landry Jones can be consistent, and the defense can make fans forget about last year's defense, then the Sooners will be a key player in the national title hunt.




18 starters return from a team that went undefeated last year, and what do you get? A national championship contender in Boise State. Junior QB Kellen Moore returns after throwing over 3,500 yards and 39 TDs and only 3 INTs. Needless to say, he is a Heisman candidate. The backfield has Jeremy Avery who had over 1,000 yards rushing and Doug Martin who lead the team with 15 rushing TDs. And Moore's targets at the wide receiver position are talented. Titus Young had over 1,000 yards receiving and Austin Pettis caught 14 TDs from Moore. On defense, one of the best CBs in the nation last year has departed in Kyle Wilson and their defensive coordinator has left. But the defense will still be one of the best in the business with Brandyn Thompson becoming the number 1 corner after a fantastic game in the Fiesta Bowl last year, and DE Ryan Winterswyk returns from his junior year in which he had 9 sacks.

Some say Boise State doesn't belong with the top dogs in the BCS. But this Bronco team is as talented as ever, and they could be shocking the nation.




Don't worry USC, you have been pardoned of all your wrongdoings, and still have a chance to compete for the national championship. And they have a very good shot at that. QB Matt Barkley had an up and down freshman year, but he is looking to break out this year, and potentially be the next great USC quarterback. The back stable is solid, with Allen Bradford, who had 8 TDs last year, and C.J. Gable. But the wideouts aren't looking too good after losing Damian Williams and their returning leader Ronal Johnson only caught 3 TDs last year. After a terrible defensive performance for USC's standards, they look to regroup and start to dominate once again. With players like Nick Perry, who had 8 sacks last year, and MLB Devin Kennard who is a major run stopper, they could possibly do that. But the secondary is weak, after all 4 starters left, and the Trojans will have to replace Taylor Mays.

Barkley will need to find his consistency, and so will the defense and the USC playmakers if the Trojans want to get back to where they belong.





All eyes are on Terrelle Pryor for his junior year this season. After 18 TDs to 11 Interceptions, expectations are high as he is a pre-season Heisman candidate and has to lead Ohio State to the title game. Pryor and HB Brandon Saine, who had 7 TDs last year, will pile it up on the ground against defenses this year. Also, DeVier Posey is a threat to every secondary, and Pryor found him for 8 TDs last year. The defense is loaded, even after losing some key starters. OLB Ross Homan lead the Buckeyes in tackles and interceptions, plus DE Cameron Heyward returns after 6.5 sacks last season.

The Buckeyes are possibly the most talented team in the nation, but it all rests on Pryor's hands. If his accuracy, and decision making has improved, then Big 10 defenses will be in trouble.




Alabama returns after their national title last year, and returns a lot of talent from that team. QB Greg McElroy hasn't lost a football game since Eighth Grade and threw for 17 TDs last year to only 4 interceptions. The main show however will be the group of tailbacks. Mike Ingram returns after winning the Heisman trophy with almost 1,700 yards and 17 TDs. He teams up with Trent Richardson, who shockingly, may even be better than the Heisman trophy winner next to him. Together, they will tear defenses apart. Also, add in athletic freak WR Julio Jones. Jones struggled to reach his potential, and only caught 4 TDs last season. But he returns, and always remains a threat to go all the way. The main concern however, is not the stacked offense, it's the depleted defense. Leaders NT Terrence Cody, MLB Rolando McClain, and CB Javier Arenas have left from the 2nd best defense in the nation. MLB Dont'a Hightower return, and SS Mark Barron who has 7 interceptions, but these two are not enough to replace such defensive stars.

The offense is absolutely nasty, but the defense is the biggest question mark. Can they possibly replace the players that have left, and recapture a national title?




These are not the official rankings the game will use.

[arton86]

This is a cool idea; keep posting the Top 25!

[RayAllen20]

ACC Season Preview
Rankings do not consist, of Athlon Sports' preseason rankings as shown above, and instead uses the games.


Atlantic Divison


1. #21 Florida State [7-6, (4-4)]

Bobby Bowden is gone, and Jimbo Fisher is the new Head Coach. Fisher and QB Christian Ponder lead the most talented Seminole team in years.


2. Clemson [9-5, (6-2)]

C.J. Spiller is gone, but the Tigers can replace him, especially with QB Kyle Parker.

3. Boston College [8-5, (5-3)]

15 starters return, and HB Montel Harris will look to beat up on ACC defenses like last year when he had 1,457 yards.

4. NC State [5-7, (2-6)]

The duo of QB Russell Wilson and HB James Washington can light up teams, but the Wolfpack defense is suspect.

5. Wake Forest [5-7, (3-5)]

Marshall Williams and Devon Brown are talented wideouts, but with a concern on who will start at QB, the Deamon Deacons look like they could be in for a long season.

6. Maryland [2-10, (1-7)]

The Terrapins defense will be picked on all year, and the Terrapins still aren't sure about their QB situation. The lone bright spot might be WR Torrey Smith.

Coastal Divison


1. #7 Virginia Tech [10-3, (6-2)]

QB Tyrod Taylor looks to improve, and HB Ryan Williams returns after a stellar 1,600 rushing yard season. The offense is dynamite, but the big question in Hokie land, is the defense.

2. #12 Georgia Tech [11-3, (7-3) ACC Champions]

The triple option attack will be lead by returning starters QB Josh Nesbitt, HB Anthony Allen, and HB Roddy Jones. If the defense can learn the new 3-4 scheme fast, then the Yellow Jackets may defend their title.

3. #14 Miami [9-4, (5-3)]

The defense is scary with 8 returning starters, and if Jacory Harris can be consistent then the Hurricanes may as well take the ACC.

4. #22 North Carolina [8-5, (4-4)]

The Tar heel defense is stacked with NFL prospects, and the offensive line looks strong. The offensive duo of QB T.J. Yates and WR Greg Little will need to be a dangerous threat though.

5. Virginia [3-9, (2-6)]

The Cavaliers are rebuilding with new head coach Mike London, but with 12 starters returning including QB Mark Verika, Virginia could surprise some.

6. Duke [5-7, (3-5)]

WR Donovan Varner returns after over 1,000 yards receiving, and if QB Sean Renfree can recover from his torn ACL, then the Blue Devils could be a tough beat.


Games to Watch

5. Georgia Tech at North Carolina, September 18th

The dangerous triple option attack heads to Chapel Hill, to face the vaunted defense of the Tar Heels. Will be an early test for the defending champs to see if they are the team to beat in the Coastal Division.


4. Georgia Tech at Clemson, October 23rd

A rematch of the conference championship, in which the Jackets barely squeaked by the Tigers. Now, QB Kyle Parker will try and get his revenge.


3. Florida State at Miami, October 9th

QB Christian Ponder and QB Jacory Harris will duel it out at the Sun Life Stadium in Miami, in what could be a possible ACC Championship preview.


2. Virginia Tech at North Carolina, November 13th

Deep into the ACC schedule, the Hokies and Tar Heels meet in what could decide a trip to the ACC Championship game. We'll see if the Tar Heel defense can shut down Tyrod Taylor and Ryan Williams.


1. Georgia Tech at Virginia Tech, November 4th

Last year, the Yellow Jackets knocked off the Hokies on their way to an ACC championship, a game that shocked many. Now they return to Lane Stadium in Blacksburg to once again pull of a win against the wild crowd. Once again, the winner could be punching their ticket to the ACC championship game.


ACC Championship Prediction: Virginia Tech 21, Florida State 17

[RayAllen20]

Big East Season Preview


1. #16 Pittsburgh [10-3, (5-2)]

With Freshman of the Year HB Dion Lewis returning, and one of the conference's best defenses the Panthers are the favorite. Yet it may all come down to new QB Tino Sunseri's play.

2. #24 Cincinatti [12-1, (7-0) Big East Champions]

New QB Zach Collaros looks to back up all the hype around him this spring, and HB Isaiah Pead is back after leading the team in rushing. Still, just like last year the defense holds this team back.

3. West Virginia [9-4, (5-2)]

Playmakers HB Noel Devine, and WR Jock Sanders return to make some big plays for the Mountaineers. Add in a solid defense, the season may ride on new QB Geno Smith.

4. Rutgers [9-4, (3-4)]

Tom Savage was fantastic as a freshman QB, and him and WR Mohamed Sanu will be connecting often. With these two, and the strength of their defense, the Scarlet Knights could be competing for the Big East title.

5. Connecticut [8-5, (3-4)]

HB Jordan Todman returns after rushing for over 1,000 yards last year and will now take almost all the carries behind a solid offensive line. QB Zach Frazer will need to cut down on the mistakes, and the Huskies will have to solve their weaknesses in the secondary.

6. South Florida [8-5, (3-4)]

Dual threat QB B.J. Daniels should be a tough match-up for defenses, and has a good amount of weapons on offense. However, with DE Jason Pierre-Paul gone, and their leading tackler, the defense has a lot of holes to fill.

7. Louisville [4-8, (1-6)]

Louisville clearly lacks the talent of the rest of the league, and is going through a coaching change under Charlie Strong. Strong will need to ride on QB Adam Froman's success for most of the season.

8. Syracuse [4-8, (1-6)]

The Orange have been the laughing stock of the Big East for a while and nothing should change this year. Still, HB Delonte Carter returns after rushing for over 1,000 yards.


Games to Watch

5. Connecticut at Rutgers, October 8th

The first Big East regular season game for both squads, will be a big test for each. The Huskies and Scarlet Knights are both in the middle of the pack, and the winner should take an early start on to becoming a contender for the Big East crown.

4. Pittsburgh at Connecticut, November 11th

Two stellar rushing teams face off with HB Dion Lewis for Pitt, and HB Jordan Todman for UConn. If you like ol' solid football with each team pounding the rock, then you'll love this game.


3. Cincinatti at West Virginia, November 13th

The Bearcats and Mountaineers come into the season unsure of how they'll do. Cincy is barely ranked, and the Mountaineers are barely not. This test will most likely tell us which team is for real.


2. West Virginia at Pittsbugh, November 26th

The Backyard Brawl has been entertaining to say the least over the last few years, and this game should be no different. Deep into the Big East schedule, these two contenders could knock each other off. The Brawl may a as well be the conference championship game, while showcasing HB Dion Lewis and HB Noel Devine.


1. Pittsburgh at Cincinatti

Last year's top two teams had a fantastic battle, in which the Bearcats barely slipped by, on their way to a Big East championship. Now, these two teams are last on each other's schedule, and the winner may surely get a BCS bid, as long as West Virginia hasn't stole the crown before.


Big East Champion Prediction: Pittsburgh Panthers

[RayAllen20]

Big 10 Season Preview


1. #2 Ohio State [11-2, (7-1) Big Ten Champions]

QB Terrelle Pryor, HB Brandon Saine, WR DeVier Posey, and a talented yet inexperienced defense, lead the Big 10 favorite Buckeyes.

2. #10 Iowa [11-2, (6-2)]

QB Ricky Stanzi returns to lead the Hawkeyes on offense, andget revenge on the Buckeyes and take the conference.

3. #11 Wisconsin [10-3, (5-3)]

Big East offensive player of the year John Clay hopes to dominate opposing defenses, and the Badgers offense is loaded.

4. #18 Penn State [11-2, (6-2)]

HB Evan Royster should get a bigger role in the Nittany Lions offense as they look to pound the ball with possibly a true freshman at QB, while the defense is still the team's strength.

5. Michigan State [6-7, (4-4)]

QB Kirk Cousins may have to do it all on offense, while the defense is mediocre.

6. Michigan [5-7, (1-7)]

QBs Tate Forcier and Denard Robinson are in a position battle, while Michigan is still rebuilding this season.

7. Minnesota [6-7, (3-5)]

QB Adam Weber will have to carry the offensive load, and the Gophers may struggle this year in the Big 10.

8. Purdue [5-7, (4-4)]

WR Keith Smith had over 1,000 yards receiving last year, and the defense is filled with experience. The Boilermakers could surprise some.

9. Illinois [3-9, (2-5)]

The offense is left with almost nothing, except HB Mikel LeShoure who only rushed for 734 yards last season. Could be a long season in Illinois.

10. Northwestern [8-5, (5-3)]

The Wildcats defense may be one of the best in the conference with LB's Quentin Davie and Nate Williams. However, the offense is inexperienced and will need QB Dan Persa to step up.

11. Indiana [4-8, (1-7)]

QB Ben Chappell will need to repeat last year's performance in which he threw for almost 3,000 yards for the Hoosiers to have a chance this season.


Games to Watch

5. Michigan State at Michigan, October 9th

These two squads are picked to finish in the middle of the pack, but both have the potential to surprise many and jump to the top of the Big 10, and the loser could finish in the cellar.

4. Penn State at Iowa, October 2nd

For two straight years the Hawkeyes have shocked the Nittany Lions, and now in Iowa, they have a chance to do it a 3rd time and come closer to their dreams of winning a Big 10 title. However, Penn State itself thinks its a contender this year in the conference, and a win here would prove it.

3. Ohio State at Wisconsin, October 16th

The Buckeyes have dominated the Badgers since 2003, and are looking to do it again, this time in Madison. Both teams have a great shot at being undefeated here, and the Big 10 title could be on the line, even in October.


2. Wisconsin at Iowa, October 23rd

If you want to know which team has the best chance at shocking the Buckeyes and winning the conference, watch this game. Both these teams love to pound the ball, and they do it well, making this game a must-watch.


1. Ohio State at Iowa, November 20th

A trip to the Rose Bowl could very well be decided this night. Last year, the Buckeyes won and went to Pasadena, now the Hawkeyes hope to get back at them. They'll try and contain Pryor, while State will try and do the same to Iowa's ground game.

Big Ten Champion Prediction: Ohio State Buckeyes

[RayAllen20]

Big 12 Season Preview


North Division


1. #9 Nebraska [8-5, (4-4) North Division Champions]

Nebraska's defense may be one of the best in the nation, as well with an improving offense lead by QB Zac Lee. Nebraska looks to easily take the North Division.

2. Missouri [8-5, (4-4)]

QB Blaine Gabbert runs the Tiger's up-tempo offense well and threw for 24 TDs last year. Mizzou is the biggest threat to Nebraska.

3. Kansas [5-7, (1-7)]

The Jayhawks have problems at the QB position and on offense, but the defense should be able to hold it's own.

4. Iowa State [7-6, (3-5)]

HB Alexander Robinson returns after an 1,000 yard rushing season, and will hope to lead the Cyclones into a top finish in the division.

5. Kansas State [6-6, (4-4)]

The Wildcats offense has a lot of question marks, especially at QB, but the defense returns 7 starters and should be tough to score on.

6. Colorado [3-9, (2-6)]

Playmaker WR Scotty McKnight is the lone bright spot on the Buffaloes. The defense was shredded all last year.


South Division


1. #3 Texas [13-1, (8-0) Big 12 Champions]

Garret Gilbert will replace Colt McCoy at QB, but don't worry, his job won't be too hard as the Longhorns will look to run a lot more. Also, the defense will once again be one of the Big 12's best.

2. #15 Oklahoma [8-5, (5-3)]

The offense looks stacked with QB Landry Jones, WR Ryan Broyles, and HB DeMarco Murray. If the defense can do well in replacing those who have left, then the Sooners will give Texas a run for it's money.

3. Oklahoma State [10-3, (6-2)]

The defense lost 9 starters, and the offense lost it's best playmakers. Atleast HB Kendall Hunter is back, but expect a dropoff, from their solid record last year.

4. Texas Tech [9-4, (5-3)]

Tommy Tuberville is in charge, but the Air Raid is still intact. The offense should do what it does, in score points, and the secondary should shine. The Red Raiders will be a tough beat.

5. Baylor [4-8, (1-7)]

Dual threat QB Robert Griffin III returns which makes the Baylor offense exciting to watch. But the defense can't stop anything, and expect it show in Big 12 play.

6. Texas A&M [6-7, (3-5)]

QB Jerrod Johnson was fantastic last season passing for over 3,500 yards and running for over 500. The offense looks explosive, but the Aggies got torched when it came to stopping the run. Looks like it will be the same story again this year.



Games to Watch

5. Texas at Texas Tech, September 18th

The first game of Big 12 play for both teams, and the new Tuberville-era Red Raiders will try in pull of the upset in Lubbock. Tech is never an easy beat, so Texas better be ready.

4.Oklahoma at Oklahoma State, November 27th

Another powerhouse in Oklahoma visits their rival, the Cowboys in Stillwater. Oklahoma State could still possibly be a player in the Big 12 South, and they could prove it with an upset over the Sooners here.

3. Missouri at Nebraska, October 30th

The Big 12 South gets more attention that the North, but the North winner still gets a shot in the Big 12 championship game for a BCS bid. The winner of this game will most likely represent the North in that championship game.

2. Texas vs. Oklahoma, October 2nd

The Red River Rivalry. Texas, Oklahoma. Two teams that don't like each other. The Big 12 South most likely on the line. A new era of QBs. What more could you ask for?

1. Texas at Nebraska, October 16th

Last year, on their way to the National Championship game, Nebraska almost shocked Texas in the Big 12 championship game. Now both teams are ranked in the top 10, and will most likely meet here and in the Big 12 championship once again.


Big 12 Championship Prediction: Nebraska 14, Texas 10

[RayAllen20]

Pac 10 Season Preview


1. #4 Oregon [10-3, (8-1) Pac 10 Champions]

With Masoli gone, the Ducks will rely on Nate Costa. With LaMichael James and a talented defense (minus the secondary), and this team team is the Pac 10 favorite. But it all comes down to how Costa plays.

2. #13 USC [9-4, (5-4)]

USC escaped too much penalty, and still has a chance for the national championship. QB Matt Barkley will have to be consistent though, as the Trojans have all the talent, to win the Pac 10.

3. #19 Oregon State [8-5, (6-3)]

James and Jacquizz Rodgers will be headaches to contain for opposing teams in the Pac 10.

4. California [8-5, (5-4)]

The Golden Bear offense will be tough to handle with Senior QB Kevin Riley at the helm.

5. Stanford [8-5, (6-3)]

With QB Andrew Luck and a proficient passing game, and 9 returning starters on defense, the Cardinal are a sleeper team in the Pac 10.

6. Arizona [8-5, (6-3)]

10 starters return on an offense that averaged 30 ppg, but the Wildcat defense could be problematic.

7. Washington [5-7, (4-5)]

Future top ten draft pick QB Jake Locker and the Huskies are tough to stop on offense, but Washington's defense will struggle.

8. UCLA [7-6, (3-6)]

The UCLA offense has some playmakers on offense, and the defense will be a tough match-up for opposing QBs, especially Rahim Moore who picked off 10 passes last year, leading the country.

9. Arizona State [4-8, (2-7)]

The Sun Devil offense could be rough this year, with a QB by committee approach. Luckily, the defense can compete with the rest of the Pac 10.

10. Washington State [1-11, (0-9)]

The Cougars return 17 starters which is great! Unfortunately those starters helped the Cougars to go winless in conference play, and only win one game all year.


Games to Watch

5. Washington at Oregon, November 6th

After the big USC-Oregon game, the Ducks face the Huskies. Washington has lost 6 straight to Oregon, and you can bet QB Jake Locker and his team will be pumped to pull of the upset. This is definitely a trap game.

4. Stanford at California, December 4th

It's the Big Game, and you get bet this game means a lot for both teams. Both these teams have an outside shot at winning the Pac 10, but who knows, one of them could be in it at this point. QBs Andrew Luck and Kevin Riley will be dueling it out in Berkeley for important Pac 10 positioning.

3. Oregon at Oregon State, December 4th

Just like last year, the Civil War game could decide the Pac 10. These two heated rivals, are both contenders for the conference crown, and we could be in for another meaninful, exciting rivalry game.


2. USC at Oregon State, November 20th

The last time USC went to Corvallis, they were absolutely shocked, and the Beavers ended USC's title hopes. These teams are a little more even now, but Pac 10 positioning is vital in this game.


1. Oregon at USC, October 30th

The Ducks and the Trojans seem to be the class of the Pac 10. And even though this game is in October, it could surely decide the Pac 10 champion later on. Both these teams have been hit by controversy, and it will be interesting to see which teams could rise above it, and win this big conference match-up.


Pac 10 Champion Prediction: Oregon State Beavers

[RayAllen20]

2010 SEC Preview


East Division


1. #6 Florida [13-1, (8-0) SEC East Champions]

QB John Brantley takes over for the beloved Tim Tebow, but no mistake, this Gator team is still a national championship contender.

2. Georgia [8-5, (4-4)]

With QB concerns, WR A.J. Green may not be as much as a factor, which SEC teams love to hear. Still, this Bulldog team has the best shot at knocking off the Gators in the East.

3. South Carolina [7-6, (3-5)]

QB Stephen Garcia and a solid defense, hope to surprise some in the SEC.

4. Tennessee [7-6, (4-4)]

The Volunteer offense doesn't look ready for SEC play, but the defense could be tough to play against.

5. Kentucky [7-6, (3-5)]

HB/WR Randell Cobb will be a big playmaker for the Wildcats, as the rest of the offense and defense will be picked on in conference play.

6. Vanderbilt [2-10, (0-8)]

The running game for the Commodores is the only bright spot on a team that went winless in SEC play.


West Division


1. #1 Alabama [14-0, (8-0) SEC Champions, National Champions]

The offense is stacked as QB Greg McElroy, HBs Mark Ingram and Trent Richardson, and WR Julio Jones return. But the defense lost a lot, and with that Alabama's task of repeating will be difficult.

2. #17 LSU [9-4, (5-3)]

QB Jordan Jefferson leads a talented Tiger passing game, and the defense is one of the best in the conference.

3. #20 Arkansas [8-5, (3-5)]

QB Ryan Mallett is one of the best QBs in the nation, and him grouped up with a decent defense, makes the Razorbacks an SEC West contender.

4. Auburn [8-5,(3-5)]

The Tiger's new offense last year was impressive, as they lit up teams on the scoreboard. Unfortunately, their defense may be the worst in the conference.

5. Ole Miss [9-4, (4-4)]

Only 8 starters return, and it looks to be a rough year for the Rebels. But if QB Jeremiah Masoli transfers here, then expect Ole Miss to be competitive.

6. Mississippi State [5-7, (3-5)]

The Bulldogs seem to be the weak team in a dangerous SEC West.


Games to Watch


5. LSU at Florida, October 9th

These two powerhouses have combined to win 3 of the last 4 national championships, and they meet in Gainesville this year. While this teams aren't in the same division, they are two top 20 teams, that could both win the SEC.

4. Auburn at Alabama, November 26th

The Iron Bowl was a tough win for the Crimson Tide last year, and it will be again this year. Alabama could be vying for a SEC championship here, and the Tigers could pull of the upset to crown a new SEC West champion.

3. Florida vs. Georgia, October 30th

In Jacksonville, Florida, the Gators and the Bulldogs will play to possibly decide the SEC East title. They seem to be the two contenders for the title, and the winner will most likely get a spot in the SEC Championship game.

2. Alabama at LSU, November 6th

At Death Valley, the Crimson Tide will most likely have to come out alive if they want to win the SEC West. The Tigers have their shot at pulling of the upset, and getting a shot to win the SEC.

1. Florida at Alabama, October 2nd

A rematch of last year's 1 vs. 2 SEC Championship game. Florida lost Tim Tebow, and Alabama lost it's defensive stars. This could be the 2010 SEC Championship preview, and it will be nice to see who the team to beat in the SEC really is, early in the conference schedule.


SEC Championship Prediction: Alabama 34, Florida 17