NCAA Football Simulation Dynasty (Take 2)

**kblu54** · 03-09-2010, 01:47 AM

2007-2008 Season Preview

USC, Michigan predicted to contend for BCS National Title in 2007-08
NCAA Football News

Despite coming off their first National Championship in nearly 10 years, the Florida Gators do not find themselves at the top of the first Coaches Poll to begin the 2007-2008 season. That honor instead goes to the USC Trojans, coming off an impressive 32-18 Rose Bowl victory over Michigan and bringing in a solid recruit class.

USC garnered 33 first-place votes to claim the top spot in the Preseason Coaches Poll, and will be paced this season by senior QB John David Booty and a ferocious defense. Michigan, despite losing the Trojans last season, begin the year at #2 with a solid squad returning. The Wolverines will be led by a slew of great seniors, including RB Mike Hart and QB Chad Henne.

Rounding out the Top 5 is LSU, Florida and Texas. LSU finished 11-2 last season and crushed Notre Dame 41-14 in the Sugar Bowl, and will be led by a tough, experienced defense. Florida is the defending champions, but lost a lot of seniors. Still, the Gators have a ton of talented youngsters, including highly-touted sophomore QB Tim Tebow, and should be in the running for the title. The Longhorns fell behind rival Oklahoma in the Big 12 standings and squeaked past Iowa 26-24 in the Alamo Bowl, but they bring back a talented squad that should be one of the best teams in the Big 12 and the nation this season.

The complete Preseason Top 25 is below.

Preseason Top 25 Coaches Poll

Rank	Team	2006-2007 Record
1	USC (40)	(11-2)
2	Michigan (21)	(11-2)
3	LSU	(11-2)
4	Florida	(13-1)
5	Texas	(10-3)
6	West Virginia	(11-2)
7	Wisconsin	(12-1)
8	Oklahoma	(11-3)
9	Virginia Tech	(10-3)
10	Arkansas	(10-4)
11	Louisville	(12-1)
12	Ohio State	(12-1)
13	Auburn	(11-2)
14	Nebraska	(9-5)
15	Tennessee	(9-4)
16	California	(10-3)
17	Penn State	(9-4)
18	Georgia	(9-4)
19	UCLA	(7-6)
20	Rutgers	(11-2)
21	Florida State	(7-6)
22	TCU	(11-2)
23	Boise State	(13-0)
24	Texas A&M	(9-4)
25	Boston College	(10-3)

**kblu54** · 03-09-2010, 10:05 AM

2007-2008 Season Preview Part 2

McFadden looks to run away with Heisman
NCAA Football News

Arkansas's junior RB Darren McFadden will open the 2007-08 season as the #1 player to watch. McFadden helped lead the Razorbacks to a 10-4 mark and the SEC West title last season, but should be one of the most dangerous players on the field this season.

Joining McFadden on the Preseason Heisman Watch is USC senior QB John David Booty, Louisville senior QB Brian Brohm, senior QB Colt Brennan of Hawaii and West Virginia junior RB Steve Slaton.

Preseason Heisman Watch

Rank	Player	2006-2007 Season Stats
1	Darren McFadden, RB - Arkansas	284 att. - 1,647 yds, 14 TDs; 11 rec. - 149 yds, 1 TD
2	John David Booty, QB - USC	269 - 436 - 3,347 yds, 29 TDs
3	Brian Brohm, QB - Louisville	199 - 313 - 3,049 yds, 16 TDs
4	Colt Brennan, QB - Hawai'i	406 - 559 - 5,549 yds, 58 TDs
5	Steve Slaton, RB - West Virginia	248 att. - 1,744 yds, 16 TDs; 27 rec. - 360 yds, 2 TDs

Surprisingly, Booty was excluded from the Preseason All-American lists. The good news for McFadden, Brohm, Brennan and Slaton is they were not. McFadden was actually a 1st Team pick as a returner, while Slaton occupies a 2nd Team slot. Brohm and Brennan grabbed the 1st and 2nd Team QB selections, respectively.

As for the rest of the nation's expected All-Americans, the list is as follows.

Preseason 1st Team All-American (Offense)

QB:	Brian Brohm, Louisville
RB:	Mike Hart, Michigan
FB:	Owen Schmitt, West Virginia
WR:	Mario Manningham, Michigan
WR:	Marcus Monk, Arkansas
WR:	Limas Sweed, Texas
TE:	Martin Rucker, Missouri
C:	Jeff Byers, USC
OG:	Hercules Satele, Hawai'i
OG:	Will Arnold, LSU
OT:	Barry Richardson, Clemson
OT:	Gosder Cherilus, Boston College

Preseason 1st Team All-American (Defense)

DE:	Derrick Harvey, Florida
DE:	Tim Jamison, Michigan
DT:	Sedrick Ellis, USC
DT:	Glenn Dorsey, LSU
MLB:	Vince Hall, Virginia Tech
MLB:	Robert James, Arizona State
OLB:	Xavier Adibi, Virginia Tech
CB:	Aqib Talib, Kansas
CB:	Antoine Cason, Arizona
FS:	Thomas DeCoud, California
SS:	Tom Zbikowski, Notre Dame

Preseason 1st Team All-American (Special Teams)

K:	Art Carmody, Louisville
P:	Andrew Larson, California
RET:	Darren McFadden, RB - Arkansas

Preseason 2nd Team All-American (Offense)

QB:	Colt Brennan, Hawai'i
RB:	Ray Rice, Rutgers
RB:	Steve Slaton, West Virginia
FB:	Mike Cox, Georgia Tech
WR:	D.J. Hall, Alabama
WR:	Lavelle Hawkins, California
TE:	Fred Davis, USC
C:	Antoine Caldwell, Alabama
OG:	Tad Miller, Boise State
OG:	Shannon Tevaga, UCLA
OT:	Sam Baker, USC
OT:	Eric Young, Tennessee

Preseason 2nd Team All-American (Defense)

DE:	Wallace Gilberry, Alabama
DE:	Quentin Groves, Auburn
DT:	Frank Okam, Texas
DT:	Andre Fluellen, Florida State
MLB:	Rey Maualuga, USC
OLB:	Dan Connor, Penn State
OLB:	Steve Octavien, Nebraska
CB:	DeJuan Tribble, Boston College
CB:	Justin King, Penn State
FS:	Roger Williams, Florida State
SS:	Kenny Phillips, Miami

Preseason 2nd Team All-American (Special Teams)

K:	Garrett Hartley, Oklahoma
P:	Michael Hughes, San Diego State
RET:	DeSean Jackson, WR - California

**cubsfan203** · 03-09-2010, 02:14 PM

Re: NCAA Football Simulation Dynasty (Take 2)

Nice! Really happy to see this back.

Just a suggestion, changing around the borders can make the tables look better. For example, setting it to 0 for the top 25 would work well, or you can make it so the border is just a line.

Using 0 as the border

K:	Garrett Hartley, Oklahoma
P:	Michael Hughes, San Diego State
RET:	DeSean Jackson, WR - California

Adding "rules=box" after the border.

K:	Garrett Hartley, Oklahoma
P:	Michael Hughes, San Diego State
RET:	DeSean Jackson, WR - California

**kblu54** · 03-11-2010, 09:37 AM

2007-2008 ACC Atlantic Division Preview

Seminoles looking to bounce back, fend off Ryan & the Eagles
ACC News

Last season, the perennial powers known as Florida State struggled to a 7-6 mark, which allowed a surprising Wake Forest team to capture the Atlantic Division crown and eventually their first ACC title. As we open the 2007-2008 season, it looks like the Seminoles are ready to avenge a "lost" season.

Unfortunately, the road back to the top will not be easy. Florida State returns a solid squad, but they must hold off fiesty competitors like Boston College and Wake Forest. The Eagles seem to be their toughest opponent, with QB Matt Ryan leading a high-flying passing attack. And who knows, the Demon Deacons could have another ACC title run in them!

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

1) Florida State Seminoles (#21)

Last Season Record: 7-6 (3-5 ACC)
Postseason Result: Won 44-27 over UCLA in Emerald Bowl

Top Players
DT Andre Fluellen [SR]
OLB Geno Hayes [JR]
WR De'Cody Fagg [SR]
DE Alex Boston [SR]
DT Letroy Guion [JR]

Offense (B-)
The Seminoles have an offense that fell way short of expectations last season, but still could have enough punch to lead a rise in the division. Junior QB Drew Weatherford will lead this group, but FSU could turn to dual-threat Xavier Lee if he struggles. RB Antone Smith, Fagg and junior WR Greg Carr are some good playmakers, but their backups are pretty young and unknown. Up front, the Seminoles will balance experience with youth (3 seniors, 2 freshmen).

Defense (B)
The Seminoles look pretty solid on defense, with a very dominating d-line and some young studs in the back 2 lines. Fluellen, a Preseason All-American, will team up with Boston and Guion to provide a great pass rush/run stopping line. Juniors Hayes and MLB Derek Nicholson will captain a talented but young linebacking corps, and senior FS Roger Williams, another Preseason All-American, will lead a solid secondary with talented youngsters like sophomores SS Myron Rolle and CB Patrick Robinson.

Special Teams (A+)
Senior kicker Gary Cismesia is one of the nation's top kickers and should give FSU an automatic 3 points whenever he's needed.

Overall (B)
The Seminoles may have to rely on their defense if they want to rise again to the top of the ACC.

2) Boston College Eagles (#25)

Last Season Record: 10-3 (5-3 ACC)
Postseason Result: Won 25-24 over Navy in Meineke Car Care Bowl

Top Players
QB Matt Ryan [SR]
CB DeJuan Tribble [SR]
SS Jamie Silva [SR]
MLB Jolonn Dunbar [SR]
DT Ron Brace [JR]

Offense (B)
The Eagles' offense and ACC title chances rest on the talented shoulders of Ryan. Arguably the best QB in the conference, Ryan will have to shred defenses left and right to boost the Eagles past their competitors. He will be aided by a run game paced by senior RBs Andre Callender and L.V. Whitworth, but it will be the play of his receivers that will guide them. OT Gosder Cherilus was a Preseason All-American and will captain a line that features 2 freshmen and a sophomore.

Defense (B-)
The Eagles have some question marks on defense, and it has nothing to do with the players that are active. Senior OLB Brian Toal will miss the entire season after suffering an injury in training camp, and junior DT B.J. Raji will sit out the season due to academic reasons. With both players out, how will the Eagles fare? Dunbar, Tribble and Brace are three dominant forces, and help from Silva and sophomore OLB Mark Herzlich could be enough to give them a solid defensive unit.

Special Teams (B)
Kicker Steve Aponavicius and punter Johnny Ayers will man the kicking duties.

Overall (B)
Ryan will be one of the nation's top QBs, but the Eagle defense needs to step up and support him in order for them to contend.

3) Wake Forest Demon Deacons (#33)

Last Season Record: 11-3 (6-2 ACC) *ACC Champions*
Postseason Result: Lost 24-13 to Louisville in Orange Bowl

Top Players
OLB Aaron Curry [JR]
DE Jeremy Thompson [SR]
CB Alphonso Smith [JR]
WR Kenneth Moore [SR]
OLB Stanley Arnoux [JR]

Offense (C+)
The Demon Deacons surprised everybody in winning their 1st ACC title last season, and it was the play of their offense that helped them contend. Sophomore QB Riley Skinner is back after an awesome freshman year, and he will be joined in the backfield by senior Micah Andrews and freshman Josh Adams. Skinner has a lot of experience to work with too, with 3 senior receivers and an o-line featuring 4 senior starters.

Defense (B)
The Wake Forest defense actually looks pretty solid, with a lot of talent all over the place. Curry and Arnoux form one of the best linebacking duos in the ACC, and Thompson should be a good pass rusher. In the secondary, Smith is joined by sophomore CB Brandon Ghee and junior Chip Vaughn, both of which share his NFL dreams.

Special Teams (A+)
Junior Sam Swank is arguably the nation's top specialist and will handle both the kicking and punting duties this fall.

Overall (B)
It will be another interesting ride for Wake Forest, but they could have enough to repeat.

4) Clemson Tigers (#38)

Last Season Record: 8-5 (5-3 ACC)
Postseason Result: Lost 28-20 to Kentucky in Music City Bowl

Top Players
RB James Davis [JR]
DE Phillip Merling [JR]
RB C.J. Spiller [SO]
SS Michael Hamlin [JR]
DE Ricky Sapp [SO]

Offense (B-)
Junior QB Cullen Harper shouldn't have to do much to make the Tigers successful, considering all the playmaking talent around him. Davis and Spiller form the best 1-2 punch in the ACC, and Spiller and sophomore WR Jacoby Ford make the Tigers dangerous in the return game. Junior WRs Aaron Kelly and Tyler Grisham give Harper two reliable targets, and the o-line looks pretty solid and has a Preseason All-American (senior OT Barry Richardson) on its lineup.

Defense (B)
Senior OLBs Tramaine Billie and Nick Watkins are surrounded by some defensive teammates destined for the NFL. It starts up front, with talented pass rushers Merling and Sapp, and continues to the secondary with junior safeties Hamlin and FS Chris Clemons. The corners are a little young, but sophomores Crezdon Butler and Chris Chancellor are still good.

Special Teams (A-)
Junior kicker Mark Buchholz, a former soccer player, and junior punter Jimmy Maners produce a respectable special teams unit.

Overall (B)
The Tigers seem to have a solid foundation for an ACC title run, but can they overcome their knack for falling short?

5) Maryland Terrapins (#40)

Last Season Record: 9-4 (5-3 ACC)
Postseason Result: Won 24-7 over Purdue in Champs Sports Bowl

Top Players
MLB Erin Henderson [JR]
CB Isaiah Gardner [SR]
TE Joey Haynos [SR]
SS Christian Varner [SR]
DT Dre Moore [SR]

Offense (B-)
The Terrapins will have to lean on their run game a lot if they want to push past their competitors. Senior RBs Keon Lattimore and Lance Ball form a solid tandem, but they will have to run well to keep the pressure off sophomore QB Chris Turner. Turner will have plenty of receiver help though, with Haynos and sophomore WR Darrius Heyward-Bey available. The Maryland o-line will have to overcome the year-long suspension of junior OT Jared Gaither, but they still form a pretty solid unit.

Defense (B+)
There is plenty to like about the Terrapin defense, and it first starts with experience. There is no starter younger than a junior, and they have a balanced group overall. Their junior trio of linebackers - Henderson, OLBs Dave Philistin and Moise Fokou - and junior DEs Trey Covington and Jeremy Navarre give Maryland a foundation for next year as well. Varner, Gardner and Moore give them the senior leadership they need to compete.

Special Teams (B+)
Nothing special here, but junior kicker Obi Egekeze is solid.

Overall (B)
Maryland will need to go old school, running the ball and playing defense, to contend this season.

6) N.C. State Wolfpack (#55)

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

Top Players
DT DeMario Pressley [SR]
SS DaJuan Morgan [JR]
DE Willie Young [SO]
RB Andre Brown [JR]
FS Miguel Scott [SR]

Offense (C)
It will be an uphill battle for the N.C. State offense this season as they attempt to return to a bowl game after going 3-9 last season. Brown paces the run game, and senior WRs Darrell Blackman and John Dunlap give them nice weapons to utilize. But who will be the starting QB: junior Daniel Evans or sophomore Harrison Beck? The Wolfpack will miss senior TE Anthony Hill, who is out for the year due to injury and will redshirt. Up front, seniors OG Kalani Heppe and C Luke Lathan will try to lead a group with two average OTs.

Defense (B-)
Pressley and Young give N.C. State a solid base up front, but the back 2 lines of defense aren't the best. There is a lot of experience (3 seniors at LB, and 2 seniors/2 juniors starting in the secondary) but the talent seems to be lacking a bit.

Special Teams (A+)
Senior kicker Steven Hauschka, a transfer using his final year of eligibility, gives the Wolfpack something to lean on.

Overall (B-)
The Wolfpack need to get back above .500 in order to make a bowl game, but it will be hard to do with this squad in a very tough division.

**kblu54** · 03-11-2010, 10:30 AM

2007-2008 ACC Coastal Division Preview

Virginia Tech looking to capture ACC title, possibly more
ACC News

Last season, Georgia Tech rose up and beat out Virginia Tech for the Coastal Division crown but fell short of their 1st ACC title in nearly 2 decades. The Yellow Jackets do return a good squad, but the Hokies open the season ranked in the Top 10 and hungry to show last season was a fluke.

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

1) Virginia Tech Hokies (#9)

Last Season Record: 10-3 (6-2 ACC)
Postseason Result: Lost 31-24 to Georgia in Chick-fil-A Bowl

Top Players
MLB Vince Hall [SR]
CB Brandon Flowers [JR]
DE Chris Ellis [SR]
OLB Xavier Abidi [SR]
FS D.J. Parker [SR]

Offense (B-)
Virginia Tech loves to run the ball, and they are hoping junior RB Branden Ore gives them a boost. If they throw the ball, they have 4 senior WRs (Eddie Royal, Josh Morgan, Justin Harper, Josh Hyman) to use. At QB, they do have an option with junior Sean Glennon or dual-threat freshman Tyrod Taylor, so they could be dangerous in their playcalling. Up front, senior OT Duane Brown will lead a decent o-line.

Defense (B+)
The Hokies will pride themselves on their talented defense, which could be the catalyst to a title run. It all starts with their Preseason All-American linebackers in Hall and Adibi. If those two can lead a ferocious defensive attack, then watch out! Flowers, Parker and Ellis are three experienced starters giving the Hokies a good balance.

Special Teams (A)
Senior kicker Jud Dunlevy and talented sophomore punter Brent Bowden are the Hokies' specialists.

Overall (B+)
Virginia Tech is a very talented squad coming into the season, but they need to show it.

2) Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (#27)

Last Season Record: 9-5 (7-1 ACC)
Postseason Result: Lost 38-35 to West Virginia in Gator Bowl

Top Players
OLB Philip Wheeler [SR]
DE Darrell Robertson [SR]
DE Adamm Oliver [SR]
RB Tashard Choice [SR]
FB Mike Cox [SR]

Offense (B-)
The success of Georgia Tech's offense depends on the arm of junior QB Taylor Bennett and the legs of RB Choice. Cox was a Preseason All-American, and will combine with Tech's very solid o-line to open plenty of holes for Choice. Bennett isn't an outstanding QB, but he is solid enough to hit targets like sophomore TE Colin Peek. If the Yellow Jackets can be balanced and productive, they will contend for the division crown again.

Defense (B+)
The Yellow Jacket defense is just plain good, with just enough experience and young talent to allow them to dominate this year and beyond. OLBs Wheeler and Gary Guyton, DEs Robertson and Oliver, safeties Djay Jones and Jamal Lewis and CB Avery Roberson are all senior starters that will provide leadership to a talented group.

Special Teams (A+)
Senior punter Durant Brooks is probably the nation's top punter and will be an invaluable asset to the defense.

Overall (B+)
Only the Hokies truly stand in the way of Georgia Tech's quest for a 2nd-straight Coastal Division crown.

3) Miami Hurricanes (#30)

Last Season Record: 7-6 (3-5 ACC)
Postseason Result: Won 21-20 over Nevada in MPC Computers Bowl

Top Players
SS Kenny Phillips [JR]
DE Calais Campbell [JR]
OLB Tavares Gooden [SR]
SS Willie Cooper [SR]
DT Teraz McCray [SR]

Offense (C+)
Miami is still in the rebuilding stage after struggling to a 7-6 mark last season, and new head coach Randy Shannon will have to figure out how to get the most out of this offense. Senior QB Kyle Wright is decent and has a few solid targets to hit, but their run game will have to be paced by sophomore Javarris James and true freshman Graig Cooper. Helping matters will be 3 senior starts on the interior o-line.

Defense (B+)
Miami's defense is not bad by any means, but they are far removed from the dominating presence they once had. Still, Phillips and Campbell lead a very experienced group with only sophomore MLB Darryl Sharpton the only starter younger than a junior.

Special Teams (B+)
Freshman punter Matt Bosher is pretty solid, but the Hurricanes will have to decide between senior Francesco Zampogna or sophomore Daren Daly as placekicker.

Overall (B)
The Hurricanes have a solid group but may not compete until next season. If their offense can shape up quickly, they could surprise a few.

4) Virginia Cavaliers (#57)

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

Top Players
DE Chris Long [SR]
OLB Jermaine Dias [SR]
TE Tom Santi [SR]
OLB Clint Sintim [JR]
TE Jonathan Stupar [SR]

Offense (C+)
The Virginia offensive line is arguably the best squad in the ACC, but unfortunately there is very few athletes to utilize it. Junior RB Cedric Peerman is decent, but sophomore QB Jameel Sewell has few receivers and only good TEs to throw to.

Defense (B)
Long is one of the better defensive players in the country, but their isn't much support around him. Granted, OLBs Dias and Sintim and true freshman CB Ras-I Dowling are good, but overall this unit seems a tad weak compared to their competitors.

Special Teams (D-)
Senior kicker Chris Gould was voted to the Preseason All-ACC squad.

Overall (C-)
When it comes down to it, Virginia just doesn't have enough to contend. They may, depending on the play of their stars, qualify for a bowl.

5) North Carolina Tar Heels (#70)

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

Top Players
DT Kentwan Balmer [SR]
DE Hilee Taylor [SR]
WR Brandon Tate [JR]
WR Hakeem Nicks [SO]
TE Richard Quinn [SO]

Offense (C)
The Tar Heels have a solid receiving corps, a good offensive line and a potential star QB in redshirt freshman T.J. Yates. But the trouble is: who will run the ball? North Carolina should probably focus on the passing game early and often if they want to sneak above .500.

Defense (B-)
Come back in 2 years, and this Tar Heel defense will be awesome. Five, yes five, starters on the defense will be freshmen, including 3 in the secondary. Balmer, Taylor and OLB Durrell Mapp provide the senior leadership for these youngsters, but it could be a bumpy learning curve this season.

Special Teams (A+)
Senior kicker Connor Barth is the top-rated placekicker on Mel Kiper Jr.'s draft board.

Overall (B-)
Head coach Butch Davis has done a great job pulling in talented recruits for the Tar Heels, but it may take a year or two before they can compete in a tough ACC.

6) Duke Blue Devils (#109)

Last Season Record: 0-12 (0-8 ACC)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Impact Players
FB Tielor Robinson [SR]
FS Chris Davis [SR]
WR Eron Riley [JR]
DT Vince Oghobaase [SO]
WR Jomar Wright [SR]

Offense (C+)
The Blue Devils went winless last season, but their offense this season could be improved enough to warrant at least one victory. Sophomore QB Thaddeus Lewis is solid, but he is lacking in playmakers around him. Lewis will have a nice experienced o-line in front of him, so maybe that will help.

Defense (C)
This Duke defense pales in comparison to the rest of the ACC. Oghobaase, Davis and senior DE Patrick Bailey are the only solid players on a subpar unit.

Special Teams (B)
A decent group of specialists will give Duke a boost.

Overall (C+)
Duke can't go winless again... can they? They could probably squeeze out a few non-conference wins, but that's it.

**kblu54** · 03-11-2010, 12:09 PM

2007-2008 Big 10 Preview

Michigan opens the year with high expectations, aspirations
Big Ten News

Ohio State ran the table last season, including a thrilling 42-39 victory over rival Michigan to clinch a spot in the BCS title game, but did not represent the Big Ten well in a 41-14 embarrassment at the hands of Florida.

To open the 2007 season, it is Michigan that finds themselves ranked as one of the top teams in the nation. The Wolverines return nearly everyone from last season's squad, and feature one of the better offenses in the country. Still, Michigan will have to hold off Ohio State and upstarts like Wisconsin and Penn State if they want a return trip to the Rose Bowl or better.

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

1) Michigan Wolverines (#2)

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

Top Players
OLB Shawn Crable [SR]
QB Chad Henne [SR]
WR Mario Manningham [JR]
RB Mike Hart [SR]
DE Brandon Graham [SO]

Offense (A-)
The Wolverines pack a potent punch on offense, with 4 of the better players in the Big Ten. Henne, Hart and Manningham give them 3 main parts of an explosive offense, and their success will be boosted by the play of senior OT Jake Long and a solid o-line.

Defense (B)
Michigan will have an interesting defense this season, with a mix of youth and experience. Senior leaders like OLBs Crable and Chris Graham and safeties Brandent Englemon and Jamar Adams will have to keep freshmen starters CB Donovan Warren and MLB Obi Ezeh in check. Graham is an exciting pass rusher that should help the unit gel.

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

Overall (A-)
Michigan will need their offense to play well each week if they want to stay ranked high. It will be a tough task in a tough conference like this.

2) Wisconsin Badgers (#7)

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

Top Players
TE Travis Beckum [JR]
RB P.J. Hill [SO]
DT Nick Hayden [SR]
WR Paul Hubbard [SR]
DE Matt Shaughnessy [JR]

Offense (B)
The Badgers base their success off of a bruising run game, which should flourish with a solid o-line and the return of Hill, who was one of the nation's freshman surprises last season. But for the Badgers to defend this high preseason ranking and their 12-1 record last season, they must have a solid passing attack led by senior QB Tyler Donovan. Donovan should have faith that he has receivers like Hubbard and Beckum to throw to.

Defense (B-)
The Badgers defense isn't anything to write home about, but they have a bunch of solid players at every level. Hayden and Shaughnessy anchor a tough d-line, and junior OLBs DeAndre Levy and Jonathan Casillas provide plenty of playmaking. In the secondary, junior CB Jack Ikegwuonu emerged as a shutdown corner last season and returns to an intruiging unit. Overall, Wisconsin really needs to play well every game if they want to compete.

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

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

3) Ohio State Buckeyes (#12)

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

Top Players
MLB James Laurinaitis [JR]
CB Malcolm Jenkins [JR]
DE Vernon Gholston [JR]
WR Brian Robiskie [JR]
OLB Larry Grant [SR]

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

Defense (B+)
Ohio State's defense will be the key to their success, as this unit is clearly the best one in the Big Ten. Laurinaitis, the son of former pro wrestler, and Jenkins are two of the best players at their respective positions. Gholston should be a pass-rushing maniac, and 3 talented sophomores in the secondary give Ohio State a base for the future.

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

Overall (A-)
Ohio State has all the tools to challenge both Wisconsin and hated rival Michigan. If the offense can put up points consistently, they should be able to lean on their strong defense for victories.

4) Penn State Nittany Lions (#17)

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

Top Players
OLB Dan Connor [SR]
CB Justin King [JR]
WR Derrick Williams [JR]
WR Deon Butler [JR]
OLB Sean Lee [SO]

Offense (B+)
Penn State seems really balanced on offense, with both a solid run game and a respectable passing attack. Senior QB Anthony Morelli leads this unit, but he has plenty of weapons and a very solid o-line. Senior RBs Rodney Kinlaw and Austin Scott will pace the run game, while Williams and Butler give Morelli two of many talented receivers to aim for.

Defense (B)
Linebacker U still lives up to its reputation, as the Nittany Lions boast several top LB starters like Connor, Lee and junior Tyrell Sales. The d-line is talented but a little young, and their cornerbacks are awesome. The safety spots seem like a weak spot, but overall this seems like a pretty solid group.

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

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

5) Iowa Hawkeyes (#41)

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

Top Players
DE Kenny Iwebema [SR]
CB Charles Godfrey [SR]
MLB Mike Klinkenborg [SR]
OLB Mike Humpal [SR]
RB Albert Young [SR]

Offense (B-)
Iowa's offense seems to have a nice mix of talent, but there is inexperience across the board. No seniors on the o-line, and 2 freshman starters. Sophomore QB Jake Christensen runs the show, but he will be assisted by senior RBs Young and Damian Sims. Juniors WR Andy Brodell and TE Tony Moeaki head up a talented but young receiving group.

Defense (B)
There's only one way to counteract an inexperienced offense - a very experienced defense. Seven out of 11 starters are seniors, and only one player (sophomore OLB A.J. Edds) is younger than a junior. Not only that, but the Hawkeyes are loaded with young depth that could mean a bright future defensively.

Special Teams (B+)
Two redshirt freshmen will man the specialists duties for Iowa.

Overall (B)
Iowa is an intruiging team and could be anywhere from the top 3 to the bottom 5 in this conference. I think their defense will be top notch, but their offense does have a lot of question marks.

6) Purdue Boilermakers (#45)

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

Top Players
TE Dustin Keller [SR]
DE Cliff Avril [SR]
OLB Stanford Keglar [SR]
WR Dorien Bryant [SR]
QB Curtis Painter [JR]

Offense (B+)
Purdue is kind of a sleeper pick in the Big Ten this year mainly due to their outstanding offense. Junior QB Curtis Painter leads an explosive passing attack, in which he will hit talented receivers like Bryant and Keller. The o-line isn't bad either, led by junior OT Sean Sester and senior OG Jordan Grimes, and junior RB Kory Sheets gives them a much-needed running boost.

Defense (C+)
The reason why Purdue isn't a very popular sleeper pick in the Big Ten is due to their mediocre defense. Avril, Keglar and junior DT Alex Magee are solid, but the rest of the defense looks weak. The secondary could get picked apart.

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

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

7) Minnesota Gophers (#50)

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

Top Players
FS Dominique Barber [SR]
WR Ernie Wheelwright [SR]
WR Eric Decker [SO]
TE Jack Simmons [JR]
SS Duran Cooley [SR]

Offense (B-)
Minnesota has an interesting group offensively, but I'm not sure it will be enough to hang with the Big Ten's big boys. Redshirt freshman QB Adam Weber will run the show, but he has playmakers like Wheelwright, Decker and senior RB Amir Pinnix to utilize. The o-line beyond senior C Tony Brinkhaus looks a little shaky though.

Defense (C+)
The Minnesota defense isn't bad, but they definately don't have an outstanding unit. Barber and 3 other senior starters in the secondary will be a nice asset, but the front seven seems pretty weak.

Special Teams (B+)
Nothing too special to write home about here, with 2 solid juniors on tap.

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

8) Illinois Fighting Illini (#54)

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

Top Players
OLB J Leman [SR]
RB Rashard Mendenhall [JR]
CB Vontae Davis [SO]
FS Justin Sanders [SR]
FS Justin Harrison [SR]

Offense (B-)
Illinois could have an exciting offense to watch this season, with Mendenhall and sophomore dual-threat QB Isaiah "Juice" Williams running the spread. The o-line looks very solid, so they could have the protection needed to make some noise. Watch out for true freshman WR Arrelious Benn, who will be their #1 receiver and kick returner.

Defense (B-)
The defense could be a strongpoint for the Illini. Leman, Sanders, Harrison and OLB Antonio Steele give them plenty of senior leadership, while youngsters like Davis give them plenty of playmaking. If they can play well consistently, Illinois could be a surprise in the conference.

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

Overall (B)
Illinois should do much better than last year's poor 2-10 finish. They have a very balanced team that could dominate on both sides of the ball... maybe.

9) Michigan State Spartans (#59)

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

Top Players
WR Devin Thomas [JR]
TE Kellen Davis [SR]
DE Ervin Baldwin [SR]
RB Javon Ringer [JR]
QB Brian Hoyer [JR]

Offense (B)
Lots to like about this Spartan offense. A great balance of run and pass, and talented players at the controls. Ringer could be a bruising back, and Thomas could be a surprising deep threat. The o-line looks great and has the most experience in the conference (3 seniors, 2 juniors).

Defense (B-)
A wide mix of experience and youth on this defense. Six seniors will start, but so will 3 freshmen. Two of the freshmen to watch are OLBs Greg Jones and Eric Gordon, but it will be senior MLB Kaleb Thornhill's job to keep them on track. Baldwin may be a solid pass rusher.

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

Overall (B)
Michigan State has plenty of tools to help improve on a measly 4 wins last season. They will have a tough road ahead, but they aren't bad by any means.

10) Indiana Hooisers (#65)

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

Top Players
CB Tracy Porter [SR]
WR James Hardy [JR]
OLB Geno Johnson [JR]
RB Marcus Thigpen [JR]
DE Jammie Kirlew [SO]

Offense (C)
Thigpen and Hardy are two solid playmakers, but they play within a mediocre offense. Dual-threat sophomore QB Kellen Lewis is an enigma, so we'll have to see how he performs. Not helping matters is a porous o-line, with their best player (OT Rodger Saffold) checking in as only a sophomore.

Defense (C+)
The good parts: Johnson, Porter and a slew of talented sophomores (Kirlew, DE Greg Middleton, safeties Nick Polk and Austin Thomas). The bad parts: Weak spots everywhere, and starting sophomores is always a risk.

Special Teams (B)
Not a very good unit, but there is some experience.

Overall (C+)
The story is out on both sides of the ball, so it will be interesting to see if one, both or neither side will step up.

11) Northwestern Wildcats (#66)

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

Top Players
DE Corey Wootton [SO]
RB Tyrell Sutton [JR]
MLB Adam Kadela [SR]
FS Reggie McPherson [SR]
WR Kim Thompson [SR]

Offense (B-)
Northwestern seems to have a good balance and the o-line looks pretty solid, led by seniors C Trevor Rees and OT Dylan Thiry. As for the playmakers, the Wildcats will have junior QB C.J. Bacher at the helm with plenty of help around him. Sutton is a solid tailback, and Thompson is one of many good receivers.

Defense (B-)
Note sure what to make of this unit yet. Wootton is a future NFL star, but is the rest of his teammates good enough to support him. Kadela and McPherson will provide senior leadership, but weak spots at DT and OLB may be hard to overcome.

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

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

**kblu54** · 03-11-2010, 01:02 PM

2007-2008 Big 12 North Preview

Huskers face tough road in quest for 2nd straight North title
Big 12 News

Nebraska, who had been a perennial power in the Big 12 for years, captured the North Division title last season but fell to Oklahoma in the Big 12 title game. The Huskers enter this season as the early favorites to repeat in the North, but they will face a much tougher road this time around.

Teams like Missouri and Kansas State looked poised to knock off the Big Red powerhouse and claim the North for themselves. It might be a tight battle for the North crown this season.

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

1) Nebraska Cornhuskers (#14)

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

Top Players
OLB Steve Octavien [SR]
CB Zack Bowman [SR]
DT Ndamukong Suh [SO]
OLB Bo Ruud [SR]
WR Maurice Purify [SR]

Offense (B-)
Coach Bill Callahan has built up a pretty solid West Coast-style offense at Nebraska, which should be very balanced. Senior QB Sam Keller has a nice group of receivers and an experienced o-line to stand behind. If Nebraska can get a solid run game out of junior Marlon Lucky and others, they could be a force.

Defense (B)
Nebraska's defense has a ton of experience, and two exciting sophomores to fill in the gaps. Three seniors each start in both the linebacking group and in the secondary, and 3 juniors have spots on the d-line. Keep an eye on sophomores Suh and SS Larry Asante, who may push this unit to a new level.

Special Teams (B+)
A solid group of kickers, with a redshirt freshman at placekicker and a junior punting.

Overall (B)
The Huskers are the defending division champs and the favorites until someone proves otherwise. When or if that happens is a mystery.

2) Missouri Tigers (#37)

Last Season Record: 8-5 (4-4 Big 12)
Postseason Result: Lost 39-38 to Oregon State in Brut Sun Bowl

Top Players
DT Evander "Ziggy" Hood [JR]
TE Martin Rucker [SR]
WR William Franklin [SR]
TE Chase Coffman [JR]
QB Chase Daniel [JR]

Offense (B+)
Missouri's offense could challenge anyone in the conference. Daniel is a top-notch leader and has plenty of playmakers to connect with. Rucker, a Preseason All-American, and Coffman form the nation's best TE tandem and the receiving group is outstanding. Senior RB Tony Temple will provide them the run game and balance they need, and the o-line looks very stout. Watch out for freshman WR/KR Jeremy Maclin, who could be a game changer.

Defense (B-)
Missouri's offense may look great, but their defense raises a few concerns. The Tigers have a bunch of great players, like Hood, junior FS William Moore and sophomore OLB Sean Weatherspoon, but is this unit good enough to challenge for the North title?

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

Overall (B+)
Missouri has a ton of talent on both sides of the ball, and could be a legit threat to knock off the Huskers. Can they really do it though?

3) Kansas State Wildcats (#46)

Last Season Record: 7-6 (4-4 Big 12)
Postseason Result: Lost 37-10 to Rutgers in Texas Bowl

Top Players
WR Jordy Nelson [SR]
DE Rob Jackson [SR]
QB Josh Freeman [SO]
SS Marcus Watts [JR]
DE Ian Campbell [JR]

Offense (B)
Kansas State has a pretty good offense. Freeman is a very solid signal-caller, and Nelson will be a player opponents gameplan for. The o-line isn't bad and has some good experience (4 juniors, 1 senior), but I'm a little concerned with the run game. Is senior RB James Johnson good enough to give them balance?

Defense (C+)
The Wildcats' DE tandem, group of corners and Watts at safety give them items to be thankful for. The rest of the defense? Awful. The linebackers are particularly bad and the DT group isn't very good.

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

Overall (B-)
Kansas State has a lot of talent, but it seems top-heavy. Big 12 opponents could exploit their weak spots and ruin their shot quickly.

4) Colorado Buffaloes (#58)

Last Season Record: 2-10 (2-6 Big 12)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Top Players
OLB Jordan Dizon [SR]
CB Terrence Wheatley [SR]
OLB Brad Jones [JR]
RB Hugh Charles [SR]
WR Dusty Sprague [SR]

Offense (C+)
Things that are decent: The o-line and receivers. Things that are good: Charles anchoring a potentially strong run game. Things that aren't good: Sophomore QB Cody Hawkins, son of head coach Dan Hawkins, and depth beyond the starters.

Defense (B-)
Dizon, Jones and Wheatley are solid talents but the rest of the defense looks pretty weak. The d-line isn't bad but it isn't good either.

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

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

5) Kansas Jayhawks (#60)

Last Season Record: 6-6 (3-5 Big 12)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Top Players
CB Aqib Talib [JR]
TE Derek Fine [SR]
WR Marcus Henry [SR]
SS Darrell Stuckey [SO]
DT James McClinton [SR]

Offense (B-)
Kansas has a decent offense ready to roll this season. Sophomore QB Todd Reesing will step into the starting role this year, and has a few solid weapons to use. Henry and Fine captain a nice receiving corps, and watch for true freshman WR Dezmon Briscoe and QB-turned-WR Kerry Meier to play a role. The o-line looks very good, and should help the RB tandem of senior Brandon McAnderson and sophomore Jake Sharp rack up tons of yards.

Defense (B-)
CB Talib is one of the nation's top corners and was voted a Preseason 1st Team All-American. The rest of the defense looks a little shaky, so it will be interesting to see how they perform. Stuckey is an exciting player that does well in coverage and against the run, so the Jayhawks could have something cookin'.

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

Overall (B-)
I like what Coach Mark Mangino is building out of a perennially lousy program. The Jayhawks have a lot of pieces in place to make some noise, but my guess is it won't happen until next season.

6) Iowa State Cyclones (#83)

Last Season Record: 4-8 (1-7 Big 12)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Top Players
OLB Alvin Bowen [SR]
DT Ahtyba Rubin [SR]
OLB Jon Banks [SR]
WR Todd Blythe [SR]
TE Ben Barkema [SR]

Offense (C)
The Cyclones have a few good players on offense, like Blythe, Barkema and senior QB Bret Meyer, but overall the package isn't very promising. The run game looks especially weak, and the o-line will have lots of trouble against some of these dominating Big 12 d-lines.

Defense (C+)
Bowen, Banks and Rubin anchor an average front seven, but they won't be able to overcome a brutal secondary. The Cyclones may be able to limit rushing attacks, but should get shredded through the air.

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

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

**kblu54** · 03-11-2010, 01:56 PM

2007-2008 Big 12 South Preview

Red River Rivalry game should decide South, Big 12 champion
Big 12 News

Texas and Oklahoma, two hated rivals and perennial powerhouses, square off every season in the Red River rivalry game. And every season, the winner seems to have the inside track to the Big 12 title. This year is no different.

The 5th-ranked Longhorns and the 8th-ranked Sooners will meet again midway through the college football season, and the winner of that contest could probably be the South Division champion and eventually the Big 12 champ. Last season was a different story, considering Texas captured a 28-10 victory over the Sooners, but it was Oklahoma that won the South and eventually the Big 12 title. This season, it should revert back to the Red River winner.

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

1) Texas Longhorns (#5)

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

Top Players
DE Brian Orakpo [JR]
DT Frank Okam [SR]
WR Limas Sweed [SR]
FS Marcus Griffin [SR]
TE Jermichael Finley [SO]

Offense (A-)
The Longhorn offense seems pretty potent, led by sophomore QB Colt McCoy. McCoy gives Texas a multiple threat at signal-caller, but he also has a bunch of weapons to aim for. Sweed, Finley and junior RB Jamaal Charles are just a few of the many solid players lining up for Texas. McCoy should also feel safe behind a solid o-line.

Defense (B)
Texas has a pretty solid defense, and its a very senior-laden defense. Three seniors in the secondary, 2 at linebacker and 2 senior DTs give the Longhorns plenty of composure. The thing I'm most excited about is their depth, as they feature a large number of outstanding young studs at every level.

Special Teams (A-)
A decent unit of sophomores.

Overall (B+)
Texas has a good squad, but how good is the question. Can they knock off Oklahoma again, and if they do, win the South this time?

2) Oklahoma Sooners (#8)

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

Top Players
WR Malcolm Kelly [JR]
TE Jermaine Gresham [SO]
OLB Lewis Baker [SR]
MLB Curtis Lofton [JR]
SS Reggie Smith [JR]

Offense (A)
If you were looking for the Big 12's top offense, you came to the right spot. Everything in this unit is awesome, from an outstanding o-line to playmakers galore. Even redshirt freshman QB Sam Bradford looks good, but you could put any player in at QB and do well with these weapons. Kelly, Gresham and junior WR Juaquin Iglesias are only a few of many top-notch targets, and senior RB Allen Patrick anchors a tough run game.

Defense (B)
Every level of this Oklahoma defense has the same theme: plenty of talent, nice mix of youth and experience. The d-line looks great and its built for the future, with freshmen like DT Gerald McCoy in the lineup. The linebackers have a ton of experience, and Baker and Lofton form one of the conference's best tandems. The secondary might be the best part, with safeties Smith and Darien Williams roaming the deep halves and an awesome set of corners ready to roll.

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

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

3) Texas A&M Aggies (#24)

Last Season Record: 9-4 (5-3 Big 12)
Postseason Result: Lost 45-10 to California in Holiday Bowl

Top Players
TE Martellus Bennett [JR]
DT Red Bryant [SR]
QB Stephen McGee [JR]
OLB Misi Tupe [SR]
DE Chris Harrington [SR]

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

Defense (B-)
Great defensive line and two solid senior OLBs give them a strong front seven. Unfortunately, a weak spot at MLB and an average secondary raise a few red flags. Many teams in the South Division throw the ball a lot, so the Aggies could be in for a tough season if they can't defend the pass.

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

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

4) Texas Tech Red Raiders (#35)

Last Season Record: 8-5 (4-4 Big 12)
Postseason Result: Won 44-41 over Minnesota in Insight Bowl

Top Players
WR Michael Crabtree [FR]
WR Danny Amendola [SR]
QB Graham Harrell [JR]
FS Darcel McBath [JR]
SS Joe Garcia [SR]

Offense (B+)
Coach Mike Leach and his vaunted passing attack will be very exciting to watch this season. Harrell was Texas Tech's first 5-star QB recruit, and he will continue to show off his skills this season. With receivers like the exciting Crabtree and the experienced Amendola to connect with, it should be a high-powered year for the Raider offense. Not only that, but junior RB Shannon Woods gives them some balance and the o-line has an added perk, beside being talented: no seniors!

Defense (B-)
Defense will be the issue for Texas Tech, as they might give up just as many points as they will score. The experience is there, with 6 seniors starting at linebacker and in the secondary, but the d-line looks a little young. Do they have enough talent to hang with the big boys of the South?

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

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

5) Oklahoma State Cowboys (#36)

Last Season Record: 7-6 (3-5 Big 12)
Postseason Result: Won 34-31 over Alabama in Independence Bowl

Top Players
TE Brandon Pettigrew [JR]
WR Adarius Bowman [SR]
WR Dez Bryant [FR]
RB Dantrell Savage [SR]
DE Nathan Peterson [SR]

Offense (B+)
Lots of talent here, so it will be interesting to see how they fare. Sophomore QB Zac Robinson is at the helm, with plenty of targets at his disposal. Bowman, Pettigrew and the exciting Bryant are all solid, and Savage gives them a balanced attack. The o-line looks very good too, so the Cowboys may have a title run in their backpocket.

Defense (C+)
Wait... scratch that title run idea. The Cowboys seem to have a defensive problem that might hinder their chances. They have experience (5 starting seniors) and young talent (sophomore starters FS Andre Sexton, OLB Chris Collins, nickel CB/PR Perrish Cox) but overall this unit seems a little weak.

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

Overall (B+)
Oklahoma State could easily vault Texas A&M and Texas Tech in the standings. They need to figure out how to overcome their defensive shortcomings, but their offense could put up a ton of points.

6) Baylor Bears (#86)

Last Season Record: 4-8 (3-5 Big 12)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Top Players
MLB Joe Pawelek [SO]
CB Dwain Crawford [JR]
WR David Gettis [SO]
WR Ernest Smith [SO]
RB Brandon Whitaker [SR]

Offense (C)
This Baylor offense... is not good. Weak talent pool at every playmaker spot, and senior QB Michael Machen isn't good enough to overcome that. The lone bright spots are on the o-line, with junior OT Jason Smith and sophomore C J.D. Walton.

Defense (C)
I honestly cannot decide which unit is worse. Baylor's defense is just as bad as their offense, and in an offensive conference like the Big 12, you will need SOME defense to counteract that. Pawelek is a good sophomore, but he will be running around nonstop to try to keep opponents under 50 points.

Special Teams (A-)
True freshman punter Derek Epperson is pretty good.

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

**kblu54** · 03-11-2010, 03:21 PM

2007-2008 Big East Preview

West Virginia, Louisville, Rutgers ready for fierce battle
Big East News

The Big East may be a small 8-team conference, but they still bring out the toughest of battles.

One of the more heated title races this season might be in the Big East where three legit contenders - West Virginia, Louisville and Rutgers - are set to battle down to the final week for the conference crown. The Cardinals captured the title last season and won the Orange Bowl, but the Mountaineers have one of the nation's best offenses and Rutgers is no slouch either.

There are plenty of big names in this conference, including 2 players on the Preseason Heisman Watch, so there is star power galore here. Depending on the play of their stars, the Big East could be a wild ride.

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

1) West Virginia Mountaineers (#6)

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

Top Players
RB Steve Slaton [JR]
FB Owen Schmitt [SR]
QB Patrick White [JR]
DT Keilen Dy'kes [SR]
FS Ryan Mundy [SR]

Offense (A)
Coach Rich Rodriguez's spread option attack will be in full force this season behind two of the Big East's most explosive players. Slaton and White will be the catalysts for the Mountaineers' option-based attack, and should light up the scoreboard. Helping the run game will be a nice set of receivers and a bruising offensive line.

Defense (B)
The Mountaineers need to play well on defense if they want to boost their offense. They have a lot of experience in their 3-3-5 lineup, including Michigan transfer Mundy and senior SS Eric Wicks. If West Virginia can slow down opposing offenses, it will only help their explosive offense.

Special Teams (A+)
Junior specialist Pat McAfee is an underrated asset for the offense, and will perform both kicking duties.

Overall (A-)
This Mountaineer squad is very good and has enough tools to make a serious run for the Big East title, but they will need their defense to step up every week.

2) Louisville Cardinals (#11)

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

Top Players
WR Harry Douglas [SR]
QB Brian Brohm [SR]
TE Gary Barnidge [SR]
WR Mario Urrutia [JR]
DT Earl Heyman [JR]

Offense (B+)
Brohm, a Preseason 1st Team All-American, leads a solid offense. This offense is built for the passing game, with its obvious number for receiving targets, but the Cardinals hope they can get a boost from sophomore RB Anthony Allen. The o-line is pretty good as well.

Defense (C)
This unit could be the Cardinals' downfall. The defense is very average at every level, and might struggle despite a ton of experience. In a conference with some high-scoring offenses, they might run into a little trouble.

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

Overall (B)
The Cardinals can put up a ton of points, but can their weak defense prevent teams from doing the same?

3) Rutgers Scarlet Knights (#20)

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

Top Players
RB Ray Rice [JR]
FS Courtney Greene [JR]
WR Kenny Britt [SO]
SS Ron Girault [SR]
QB Mike Teel [JR]

Offense (B+)
Give the ball to Ray Rice! The bruising junior tailback is due for another great season behind a solid offensive line. Keeping defenses honest will be a job for Teel, but with Britt and junior WR Tiquan Underwood to throw to, it might be easier than expected.

Defense (C+)
Ugh. If only there defense was better, Rutgers might be a serious contender. The defensive line looks okay, and the secondary is pretty solid. Unfortunately, there are a lot of question marks within the linebacking corps, which might be trouble.

Special Teams (A+)
Senior kicker Jeremy Ito was voted to the Preseason All-Big East team.

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

4) South Florida Bulls (#29)

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

Top Players
CB Mike Jenkins [SR]
CB Trae Williams [SR]
DE George Selvie [SO]
OLB Tyrone McKenzie [JR]
WR Amarri Jackson [SR]

Offense (C)
Dual-threat sophomore QB Matt Grothe will lead the offensive attack, but he seems to be lacking in playmaker support. Big question marks at RB, WR and the o-line. I'm not sure if he can do it all by himself.

Defense (B)
When it's all said and done, USF might produce the Big East's best defense. Selvie anchors a solid d-line. McKenzie and senior MLB Ben Moffitt quarterback the linebackers and are pretty good themselves. Jenkins, Williams, and sensational sophomores CB Jerome Murphy and FS Nate Allen give USF arguably the best secondary in the conference. If the Bulls can play sound defensively, it could help the offense develop faster.

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

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

5) Cincinnati Bearcats (#49)

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

Top Players
FS Haruki Nakamura [SR]
CB Mike Mickens [JR]
WR Mardy Gilyard [SO]
TE/DE Connor Barwin [JR]
DE Angelo Craig [SR]

Offense (C+)
Cincinnati has an interesting offense. Interesting in the fact that they'll be much better next season. As for this year, senior QB Ben Mauk will try to make coach Brian Kelly's spread attack work wonders. Two senior RBs will help, plus an awesome group of young receivers. The o-line looks okay, but it should look better next year.

Defense (B)
Cincinnati employs a 3-4 scheme on defense, and it will be interesting to see how well they can defend. Their d-line looks very good, especially at a deep DE spot, and their linebackers are decent and experienced. The best part about this defense has to be the secondary, where the Bearcats boast a group rivaled only by South Florida. Mickens and Nakamura give them a nice safety cushion deep.

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

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

6) Pittsburgh Panthers (#56)

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

Top Players
CB Kennard Cox [SR]
MLB Scott McKillop [JR]
RB LeSean McCoy [FR]
RB LaRod Stephens-Howling [JR]
OLB Adam Gunn [JR]

Offense (C+)
Pittsburgh suffered a tough knock during training camp, as senior WR Derek Kinder suffered a major injury and will redshirt this season. Two freshmen will man the backfield, with QB Pat Bostick joining McCoy as a starter. The Panthers might struggle to make plays, but Bostick should feel safe behind solid senior OTs Jeff Otah and Mike McGlynn.

Defense (C)
This defensive unit is pretty average, and combined with an average offense it might be a rough year for Pitt. McKillop, Cox and Gunn are solid, plus two senior DEs will keep the d-line competitive. Unfortunately, I don't think they have nearly enough to compete this season.

Special Teams (B+)
Two junior specialists will kick for the Panthers.

Overall (C)
Pittsburgh has a few potential stars but have way too many glaring weak spots to contend.

7) Connecticut Huskies (#68)

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

Top Players
RB Donald Brown [SO]
CB Tyvon Branch [SR]
DE Cody Brown [JR]
CB Darius Butler [JR]
DE Lindsey Witten [SO]

Offense (C+)
UConn should have a nice balanced attack offensively, with Brown anchoring a bruising run game. Junior QB Tyler Lorenzen is decent, but he needs to find some solid receivers to throw to. On the o-line, junior OT William Beatty and senior OG Donald Thomas are the lone bright spots on an otherwise poor line.

Defense (B-)
An above average unit. Brown anchors a solid d-line, while Branch and Butler give the Huskies a nice secondary look. The best part about this defense might be the linebackers, which has talent both young and experienced.

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

Overall (B-)
This UConn squad isn't that bad, and they could sneak into the top half of the conference if they play their cards right.

8) Syracuse Orangemen (#76)

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

Top Players
DE Jameel McClain [SR]
CB Dowayne Davis [SR]
FB Tony Fiammetta [JR]
DT Arthur Jones [SO]
WR Mike Williams [SO]

Offense (C)
Syracuse has a few playmakers (Williams, Fiammetta, junior RB Curtis Brinkley) and an experienced o-line (3 juniors, 2 seniors), but sophomore QB Andrew Robinson could be trouble. The Orange will stay in the Big East cellar if he doesn't improve... fast.

Defense (C+)
McClain, Davis and Jones are the only bright spots on an average defense. The linebackers aren't very good, and despite a lot of experience in the secondary, there isn't much talent. Syracuse might struggle against some of the conference's better offenses.

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

Overall (C)
Syracuse has big issues on offense, and big issues on defense. That means a big return trip to last place.

**kblu54** · 03-12-2010, 10:00 AM

2007-2008 Conference USA East Division Preview

Southern Miss enters new season hungry to avenge title game loss
Conference USA News

Last season, Southern Mississippi easily ran through the Conference USA's East Division, but suffered a 34-20 letdown to Houston in the conference title game. This year, the Eagles enter the year as the highest-ranked team in the whole conference and seem hungry to earn another shot at the crown.

The road back won't be easy though, as they will have to overcome legit contenders like ECU and UCF.

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

1) Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles (#52)

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

Top Players
SS Brandon Sumrall [SR]
TE Shawn Nelson [JR]
DE Robert Henderson [SR]
RB Damion Fletcher [SO]
QB Jeremy Young [SR]

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

Defense (C+)
The Eagles seem pretty good on defense, save for a ton of inexperience at CB. Sumrall, Prince and Henderson give them some star power, but the one player to keep an eye on has to be sophomore MLB Gerald McRath. With the Eagles offense looking impressive, their defense could be a nice sidekick.

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

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

2) Marshall Thundering Herd (#69)

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

Top Players
TE Cody Slate [SO]
QB Bernard Morris [SR]
WR Darius Passmore [JR]
WR Emmanuel Spann [JR]
TE Brian Shope [SR]

Offense (C+)
Marshall's offense will be intruiging to watch, as they might have a nice balance. Morris is one of the better QBs in the conference, and has plenty of targets like the young Slate to any of a nice group of receivers. The question is, can true freshman RB Darius Marshall provide them enough support in the run game? Also, can senior C Doug Legursky keep a subpar offensive line in check?

Defense (D+)
Marshall could be in for some trouble, due mostly to their weak defensive unit. Sophomore DE Albert McClellan is already out for the year with an injury, so the d-line will be weak. Their best linebacker is a true freshman (MLB Mario Harvey), and their secondary might be the most porous unit.

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

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

3) East Carolina Pirates (#85)

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

Top Players
RB Chris Johnson [SR]
TE Davon Drew [JR]
DE C.J. Wilson [SO]
TE Jay Sonnhalter [SR]
RB Dominique Lindsay [JR]

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

Defense (C)
ECU's defense looks a little weak on the surface, but coach Holtz has done a good job building for the future. There is a lot of youngsters on defense, like Wilson and true freshman DT Linval Joseph, but there is also enough upperclassmen to provide them leadership. If the Pirates can play well this season, then next year will be incredible.

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

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

4) Central Florida Knights (#87)

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

Top Players
RB Kevin Smith [JR]
TE Mike Merritt [SR]
CB Joe Burnett [JR]
FS Jason Vernon [JR]
DT Keith Shologan [SR]

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

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

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

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

5) Memphis Tigers (#92)

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

Top Players
DE Clinton McDonald [JR]
WR Duke Calhoun [SO]
WR Carlos Singleton [SO]
QB Martin Hankins [SR]
RB Joseph Doss [SR]

Offense (C+)
The Memphis offense looks pretty good and will be their strongpoint this season. Hankins is an experienced signal-caller leading this group, and should have fun finding young talents like Calhoun and Singleton through the air. Doss will keep teams honest on the ground, and should have plenty of holes opened by two Preseason all-conference OTs - senior Abraham Holloway and junior Brandon Pearce.

Defense (C)
McDonald is the lone bright spot on a below average defense. The linebackers are very mediocre and the secondary is worse. If McDonald can consistently put pressure on opposing QBs (unless he's double-teamed all the time), then it will help out his teammates.

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

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

6) UAB Blazers (#97)

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

Top Players
FS Will Dunbar [SR]
CB Kevin Sanders [JR]
QB/WR Joe Webb [SO]
OLB Joe Henderson [JR]
CB Zach Britten [SR]

Offense (D+)
This offense does not look very good. Webb is a dynamic playmaker and QB-in-waiting with senior Sam Hunt calling the shots, but Webb will still make his presence felt as a WR this year. The Blazers appear to have a weak run game, but the o-line is decent. Watch for sophomore C Jake Seitz to dominate opposing nose tackles.

Defense (C)
The defensive players listed as top players - Dunbar, Henderson, Sanders and Britten - are literally the only good players on a bad defense. The defensive line looks awful, and glaring weak spots at MLB and SS are going to be salivating for opposing offenses.

Special Teams (B)
Junior specialist Swayze Waters will handle both jobs.

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

**kblu54** · 03-12-2010, 10:33 AM

2007-2008 Conference USA West Division Preview

Houston looking for another C-USA title
Conference USA News

The Houston Cougars open the season as the West Division favorites but not the conference favorites, despite winning in the title game last season. They return by far the most talented squad in the conference and should have an easy road back to the Conference USA title game.

The key for Houston will be their offense, which looks like it can score at will. Tulsa, and possibly UTEP, will put up a fight to knock them off, but the Cougars look too good.

Let's look at the 2007-2008 Conference USA West Division programs, in order of predicted finish.

1) Houston Cougars (#67)

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

Top Players
WR Donnie Avery [SR]
OLB Rocky Schwartz [SR]
OLB Brendan Pahulu [SR]
MLB Trent Allen [SR]
RB Anthony Alridge [SR]

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

Defense (B-)
Not only does Houston have the conference's best offense, but their defense is tops as well. The eye-opening thing is Houston only has 3 seniors starting! Four talented juniors, including pass rushing DE Phillip Hunt, start on the d-line. Three out of 4 starters at LB are seniors, and the fourth is talented junior MLB Cody Lubojasky. They seem to be a little down at CB, but junior safeties Ernest Miller and Kenneth Fontenette should overcome those shortcomings.

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

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

2) Tulsa Golden Hurricane (#71)

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

Top Players
OLB Chris Chamberlain [SR]
QB Paul Smith [SR]
MLB Nelson Coleman [SR]
SS Anthony Germany [SR]
DE Moton Hopkins [JR]

Offense (C-)
Senior QB Paul Smith is a very good signal-caller, but he doesn't seem to have enough weapons to use. Junior RB Tarrion Adams should give them a nice balance on the ground, but Smith needs to connect with some receivers and do it quickly, because the o-line won't be much of a help.

Defense (C+)
Tulsa's defense isn't that bad. Chamberlain and Coleman form one of the best LB tandems in the conference, and Hopkins gives them a pass-rushing playmaker. The secondary, led by Germany, should provide enough support to create a solid unit overall.

Special Teams (B)
Junior kicker Jarod Tracy was voted to the Preseason all-conference squad, while true freshman Michael Such will punt.

Overall (C)
Tulsa has a solid defense, but Smith really needs some playmakers to give Houston a run for the money.

3) Southern Methodist Mustangs (#79)

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

Top Players
WR Emmanuel Sanders [SO]
FS Brandon Jones [SR]
MLB Tony Hawkins [SR]
TE Vincent Chase [JR]
DE Cory Muse [SR]

Offense (D+)
SMU might struggle a bit offensively. Dual-threat sophomore QB Justin Willis is decent, but who is going to run the ball? Regardless, they won't be very good. The o-line is experienced (3 seniors) so that will give Willis at least a little protection. The main player to watch is Sanders, a dynamic receiver who could change a few outcomes for the Mustangs.

Defense (C-)
Muse captains a poor d-line, Hawkins leads a mediocre linebacking group and Jones will try to keep a subpar secondary focused. The Mustangs already have junior SS Rock Dennis lost due to injury, so they need to stay injury-free the rest of the way if they want to compete at all.

Special Teams (A)
Junior punter Thomas Morstead is the best punter in the conference.

Overall (C-)
The Mustangs seem too average on both sides of the ball to seriously contend. It could be a struggle to return to 6 wins again.

4) UTEP Miners (#82)

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

Top Players
FS Quintin Demps [SR]
RB Marcus Thomas [SR]
WR Lorne Sam [SR]
WR Joe West [SR]
TE Jake Sears [SR]

Offense (C+)
Do not be surprised if UTEP makes a serious run for the West Division crown. They have all the pieces in place - a top RB (Thomas), a great set of receivers and arguably the best offensive line in the conference, captained by senior OT Oniel Cousins. The big question mark for them is redshirt freshman QB Trevor Vittatoe. Can the youngster lead this talented group to the top of the West?

Defense (C)
The only thing, besides the play of Vittatoe, that could hinder their title chances is their shortcomings on defense. Their d-line is brutally bad, and senior OLB Jeremy Jones is the only good LB on the roster. The cornerbacks aren't good either, but at least the Miners have arguably the best safety duo in the conference. Demps and sophomore SS Braxton Amy could be the best ball hawks around, so that might make the difference for this otherwise average unit.

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

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

5) Rice Owls (#91)

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

Top Players
WR Jarett Dillard [JR]
TE James Casey [FR]
OLB Brian Raines [JR]
QB Chase Clement [JR]
OLB Terrance Garmon [SO]

Offense (C+)
Rice, which used to be a triple-option team, continues their development as a pass-oriented program. Clement will lead this unit, and has two nice targets in Dillard and Casey to connect with. The o-line isn't bad either, but who is going to run the ball? It's a good thing Rice focuses on throwing the ball.

Defense (C)
Raines, Garmon and senior DE Jonathan Cary are the only bright spots on a bad defense. The secondary is atrocious, and in a division that loves to pass a lot, that might spell trouble for the Owls.

Special Teams (C+)
The specialists Rice has are not very good.

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

6) Tulane Green Wave (#103)

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

Top Players
RB Matt Forte [SR]
SS Joe Goosby [SR]
WR Jeremy Williams [SO]
DE Antonio Harris [SR]
RB Andre Anderson [SO]

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

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

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

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

**kblu54** · 03-12-2010, 10:50 AM

2007-2008 Independents Preview

Notre Dame looking to re-join nation's elite
Independents News

Notre Dame head coach and former New England Patriot offensive coordinator Charlie Weis led the Fighting Irish to a 10-3 mark and a BCS bowl, but Notre Dame suffered yet another postseason loss. Weis has a talented squad returning, and hopes the Irish can jump back into the conversation of the nation's elite teams.

As for the two military squads, Navy put together a nice 9-4 campaign last season and is hoping to continue their development as a strong program. Army, which has traditionally run a triple-option offense, will try to finish above .500 with a brand-new West Coast-style offense.

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

1) Notre Dame Fighting Irish (#28)

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

Top Players
SS Tom Zbikowski [SR]
TE John Carlson [SR]
DT Trevor Laws [SR]
QB Jimmy Clausen [FR]
FS David Bruton [JR]

Offense (C+)
Leading the Notre Dame offense will be true freshman Jimmy Clausen, the #1-overall rated prospect in the nation. Clausen will take his lumps right away under Coach Weis' pro-style offense, behind a young offensive line captained by senior C John Sullivan. Clausen will also have to develop some connections with a very young group of playmakers.

Defense (B)
The Notre Dame defense looks pretty solid and has a ton of experienced guys, like the exciting and tough Zbikowski. Seniors like Laws, OLB Joe Brockington and CB Ambrose Wooden should give the Irish enough leadership to put together a decent unit.

Special Teams (A-)
The specialists are pretty solid, with true freshman Brandon Walker kicking and 5th-year senior Geoffrey Price punting.

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

2) Navy Midshipmen (#63)

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

Top Players
FB Adam Ballard [SR]
RB Reggie Campbell [SR]
WR O.J. Washington [SR]
MLB Irv Spencer [SR]
RB Shun White [JR]

Offense (C-)
The Navy triple-option attack has two outstanding ballcarriers in Ballard and Campbell, but they also have guys like White and FB Eric Kettani ready to run. Junior QB Kaipo-Noa Kaheaku-Enhada will run the hard-to-defend offense and has a ton of speed, making Navy a real force. Unfortunately, they might have some trouble behind a weak offensive line.

Defense (D+)
Navy's offense better plan on holding the ball for 90% of their games, because their defense is just begging to be scored upon. The d-line is brutal, but a decent linebacking group might help overcome that problem. Unfortunately, there's nothing they can do about a bad secondary.

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

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

3) Army Black Knights (#106)

Last Season Record: 3-9
Postseason Result: DNQ

Top Players
SS Caleb Campbell [SR]
FB Mike Viti [SR]
WR Jeremy Trimble [SR]
DE Brandon Thompson [SR]
OLB Frank Scappaticci [JR]

Offense (D+)
Army is changing it up on offense, bringing in a new West Coast-style offense and ousting the old triple-option attack. Trimble and Viti give them some playmakers, but who's going to run the show? Two seniors and a sophomore will battle for the starting job. Not helping matters will be a poor offensive line.

Defense (C)
Campbell needs to be all over the field to have Army produce a successful defense, but he can't do it all. Thompson might help with the pass rush, but Army has an awful group of linebackers and corners.

Special Teams (A-)
Junior kicker Adam DeMarco is awful, but senior punter Owen Tolson will perform both kicking duties this year.

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

**kblu54** · 03-12-2010, 11:25 AM

2007-2008 MAC East Division Preview

MAC's East Division up for grabs
MAC News

It could be a wild battle in the East this year.

Ohio won the division last season and open the year as the favorites, but any number of teams could knock them off. Kent State or Bowling Green are two legit contenders ready to challenge the Bobcats. Not only that, but this division gained a new member in Temple, making it a 7-team fight.

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

1) Ohio Bobcats (#89)

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

Top Players
DT Landon Cohen [SR]
RB Kalvin McRae [SR]
SS Todd Koenig [SR]
WR Taylor Price [SO]
WR Chido Nwokocha [SR]

Offense (B-)
Ohio has a pretty solid offense, paced of course by McRae. McRae was one of the MAC's leading rushers last season and will be the player opposing defenses need to stop. Senior QB Brad Bower will have to give the Bobcats some balance, but shouldn't have much trouble with two top-notch WRs and two good junior TEs to throw to. The only issue is a below average o-line.

Defense (C)
Ohio's defense actually has very few weak spots. The defensive line is incredible, so that should help out their weak linebacking group. Koenig paces a decent secondary, so the Bobcats might be able to keep opposing offenses off the field.

Special Teams (A-)
Senior kicker Michael Braunstein and redshirt freshman punter Matt Schulte are penciled in.

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

2) Miami (Ohio) Redhawks (#94)

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

Top Players
TE Jake 'Connell [JR]
TE Tom Crabtree [JR]
RB Brandon Murphy [SR]
MLB Joey Hudson [JR]
DE Joe Coniglio [JR]

Offense (C)
How does a team that went 2-10 last season earn a 2nd-place prediction the following year? By bringing back a ton of seniors and a dominating offensive line. Murphy could run wild behind the hog mollies up front, and sophomore QB Daniel Raudabaugh could develop a connection faster with a very young group of WRs. O'Connell and Crabtree will also help the passing game flourish.

Defense (C-)
There is really nothing special about this defense. Coniglio and Hudson are the only solid players, but the good news is that there is few seniors. This unit could only get better, which could push the Redhawks into title contention.

Special Teams (B+)
Two juniors will kick for the Redhawks.

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

3) Kent State Golden Flashes (#96)

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

Top Players
CB Jack Williams [SR]
DT Colin Ferrell [SR]
TE Tom Sitko [SR]
SS Fritz Jacques [SR]
RB Eugene Jarvis [SO]

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

Defense (C+)
The unit isn't bad at all, with Williams giving them a much-needed shutdown corner in the secondary. Jacques and Ferrell also give them some playmakers, so the Golden Flashes could lean on their defense.

Special Teams (B-)
Some pretty below average sophomores form the kicking group.

Overall (C)
Their defense will be their strongpoint, but they will need Edelman and Jarvis to run wild if they want a title shot.

4) Akron Zips (#99)

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

Top Players
CB Reggie Corner [SR]
WR Jabari Arthur [SR]
OLB Brion Stokes [SR]
SS Chevin Pace [SR]
CB Davanzo Tate [SR]

Offense (D+)
Arthur and senior TE Kris Kasparek give the Zips two solid playmakers to build off of. Unfortunately, they have several question marks: How will sophomore QB Chris Jacquemain fare? Is their o-line too bad to compete? And who will run the ball - junior Bryan Williams, junior Dennis Kennedy or sophomore Alex Allen? If Akron can find positive answers to these concerns, they could be okay.

Defense (C)
Akron's defense is decent, but I was surprised at how deep they are at several positions. Their secondary is pretty solid, and Stokes is one of the best linebackers in the MAC. If their d-line can play well, then the Zips will have a solid unit.

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

Overall (C-)
Defense, developing an offensive identity and health is the keys to Akron's success.

5) Bowling Green Falcons (#102)

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

Top Players
DE Diyral Briggs [JR]
WR Freddie Barnes [SO]
WR Corey Partridge [JR]
CB Antonio Smith [JR]
SS Loren Hargrove [SR]

Offense (C+)
Sophomore QB Tyler Sheehan will lineup behind a very experienced offensive line, which will start 4 seniors and an NFL prospect in center Kory Lichtensteiger. He also will have one of the better WR tandems in the MAC to throw to, plus a talented group of tailbacks to work with.

Defense (C)
Strengths: Briggs and experience up front, Smith and a talented secondary covering deep. Weaknesses: The entire linebacking corps.

Special Teams (B)
A junior kicker and a sophomore punter with crazy last names will kick.

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

6) Buffalo Bulls (#115)

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

Top Players
DE Trevor Scott [SR]
WR Naaman Roosevelt [SO]
OLB Kareem Byrom [SR]
RB James Starks [SO]
OLB Larry Hutchinson [SR]

Offense (C)
Starks and Roosevelt give junior QB Drew Willy two good playmakers to get the ball to. Senior C Jamey Richard will captain the line and is one of the more respected players in the conference. Unfortunately, this offense has a lot of issues. The rest of the o-line is pretty bad, and their receivers past Roosevely are bleak.

Defense (C)
Scott could be one of the better pass rushers in the conference, and Byrom gives the Bulls some much-needed senior leadership. Still, this group could struggle this season but they definately won't next year. Youngsters like true freshman FS Davonte Shannon give them hope for the future.

Special Teams (A-)
A true freshman will kick and a senior will punt.

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

7) Temple Owls (#118)

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

Top Players
DT Terrance Knighton [JR]
DE Leyon Azubuike [JR]
WR Bruce Francis [JR]
FS Dominique Harris [SO]
WR Travis Shelton [JR]

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

Defense (C)
Knighton, Azubuike and the young Harris are the only good players on a subpar defense. Their linebackers and corners are very bad.

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

Overall (D+)
Temple will probably have a very rough first season in the MAC. The one interesting thing about this program is the shockingly-low number of seniors --- 1. This team could be a serious force next season if everyone comes back.

**kblu54** · 03-12-2010, 12:04 PM

2007-2008 MAC West Division Preview

Central, Western to settle state of Michigan, MAC's West champ
MAC News

You will only need to keep an eye on one state this season to indentify the MAC's West Division champion.

Central Michigan and Western Michigan should not only settle their in-state rivalry, but the results of that contest could also determine the winner of the West this year. Last season, the Chippewas edged the Broncos and the rest of the West by 1 game and then took home the MAC crown with a 31-10 victory over Ohio. Central Michigan will be the favorites to repeat, but I'm sure Western Michigan or possibly Ball State will have something to say about that.

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

1) Central Michigan Chippewas (#75)

Last Season Record: 10-4 (7-1 MAC) *MAC Champions*
Postseason Result: Won 31-14 over Middle Tennessee State in Motor City Bowl

Top Players
OLB Red Keith [SR]
QB Dan LeFevour [SO]
WR Bryan Anderson [SO]
OLB Isaac Brown [SR]
WR Justin Gardner [SR]

Offense (C+)
Central Michigan is paced on offense by LeFevour, who even as a sophomore ranks as one of the best QBs in the nation. The dual-threat QB will have plenty of targets to connect with, like Anderson, Gardner and two junior RBs. The o-line isn't the best, but I'm sure senior C Mike Decker will keep everyone in line.

Defense (C)
The Chippewas have just as many stars as issues on defense. Senior OLBs Keith and Isaac Brown provide two tackling machines, but the Chippewas have a brutal secondary. Hopefully senior DT Steve Friend and the d-line can generate a pass rush to help them out, but some of the better QBs in this division could carve them up.

Special Teams (A-)
Sophomore kicker Andrew Aguila is pretty solid, and senior punter Tony Mikulec was voted to the Preseason All-MAC team.

Overall (C+)
Central Michigan has 3 goals this year --- score a bunch of points, try to play defense and win the MAC title. I think only 2 of the 3 will happen.

2) Western Michigan Broncos (#81)

Last Season Record: 8-5 (6-2 MAC)
Postseason Result: Lost 27-24 to Cincinnati in International Bowl

Top Players
FS Louis Delmas [JR]
CB E.J. Biggers [JR]
RB Mark Bonds [SR]
FS C.J. Wilson [JR]
QB Tim Hiller [SO]

Offense (C)
Sophomore QB Tim Hiller is a star in a making, and the eventual Hiller/LeFevour annual shootout could be a storyline to watch for years to come. Bonds and sophomore RB Brandon West give him a talented backfield, and targets like juniors WR Jamarko Simmons and TE Branden Ledbetter give him options. Also, senior C Robbie Krutilla anchors a strong o-line.

Defense (C)
The Broncos have a strong secondary, evidenced by Biggers and Delmas. The front seven isn't as promising though, but junior DT Nick Varcadipane might give them a run-stuffing force.

Special Teams (B+)
Two seniors form a solid group.

Overall (C+)
Western Michigan could be the favorite if Central Michigan wasn't the defending champs. The Broncos have a great offense and a strong secondary, so they could snatch the crown.

3) Northern Illinois Huskies (#90)

Last Season Record: 7-6 (5-3 MAC)
Postseason Result: Lost 37-7 to TCU in Poinsettia Bowl

Top Players
DE Larry English [JR]
MLB Tim McCarthy [JR]
WR Marcus Perez [JR]
TE Brandon Davis [SR]
FS Mark Reiter [SR]

Offense (C-)
The Huskies have a decent amount of playmakers in the passing game - Perez, Davis, sophomore TE Reed Cunningham - and arguably the best offensive line in the MAC. But the trouble is, who will run the ball and is junior QB Dan Nicholson good enough?

Defense (C)
English is one of the best DEs in the country and is only a junior. The Huskies' linebackers are solid, have plenty of depth and have no seniors. The secondary, though, looks a little shaky.

Special Teams (A)
Senior kicker Chris Nendick was voted as the best returning specialist in the conference.

Overall (C)
The Huskies have a tough squad but they have a lot of question marks on both sides of the ball. If English and their star players can really make some noise, they could overcome their issues and contend.

4) Toledo Rockets (#95)

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

Top Players
RB Jalen Parmele [SR]
FS Tyrrell Herbert [SR]
SS Barry Church [SO]
OLB Greg Hay [SR]
CB Nigel Morris [SR]

Offense (C+)
The Toledo offense is another great squad, making the West Division a scoring delight. Parmele is arguably the MAC's best tailback, and sophomore QB Aaron Opelt has plenty of receivers to aim for. His o-line is pretty solid with horses like seniors OT John Greco and OG David Perkins doing the work.

Defense (C)
Toledo is very balanced on defense, with very few weak spots. The linebackers are a little iffy, but Church and Herbert could easily step up into run support. The d-line isn't bad, so the Rockets could have a nice foundation on defense.

Special Teams (B+)
Sophomore kicker Alex Steigerwald easily won the job over a senior.

Overall (C+)
Toledo's presence makes Central Michigan's road to a repeat very rough. The Rockets are just as competitive as any team in the MAC and could easily hurdle everybody in the West.

5) Ball State Cardinals (#104)

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

Top Players
QB Nate Davis [SO]
WR Dante Love [JR]
DE Cortlan Booker [SR]
WR Louis Johnson [JR]
FS Eddie Burk [SR]

Offense (B-)
Ball State has a solid offense as well, but their offense will probably be the best in the MAC in a year or two. Players like Davis and sophomore RB MiQuale Lewis give Cardinal fans huge hope for the future. Ball State also has some great receivers and a very dependable offensive line, led by junior OT Robert Brewster. Any major success this season will only add the hype.

Defense (C)
The reason why Ball State is predicted to finish lower is because of their mediocre defense. Booker and Burk are the only good players, but there is some balance amongst the levels.

Special Teams (A)
Junior punter Chris Miller is already one of the best players at his position in the nation. It's too bad the young kickers joining him are brutal.

Overall (B-)
Ball State has a bunch of great tools that will allow them to compete... next year. This year might be a major learning experience for everyone.

6) Eastern Michigan Eagles (#119)

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

Top Players
DT Jason Jones [SR]
TE Ken Bohnet [SR]
DE Eric Young [SR]
WR Travis Lewis [SR]
SS Jacob Wyatt [JR]

Offense (D+)
Eastern Michigan has a few good players with a ton of experience on offense. Bohnet, Lewis and RB Pierre Walker are all seniors that can make plays. Even up front, junior OT T.J. Lang and senior OG Khalid Walton give the Eagles a solid base. The big question mark for them is at QB, where sophomore Andy Schmitt needs to develop fast.

Defense (C)
Jones might be one of the best defensive players in the conference, but he is surrounded by an awful unit. The secondary is especially brutal, and the linebackers aren't very helpful. Could be a rough year ahead for them.

Special Teams (B-)
A decent group of specialists, but not the best.

Overall (C-)
The nation's lowest-ranked team looks like it has a few tools to avoid that honor during the season. Unfortunately, avoiding the lowest rank is probably the best thing they will achieve.

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