College Sports Zone

Memphis and Navy

2012-02-08T17:26:00.002-05:00

Navy is going for football only. It will be a step up in competition for them. They are a very competitive team and they should be able to give other members of the Big East fits and should be able to make a respectable bowl.

Memphis
I think the basketball team will have a rough go in the Big East but they should be a good middle of the pack team in a very difficult and rugged Big East. They should be top either in the Big east and make to the big dance every few years. They should continue attracting top talent to their new conference. I think the football team could struggle in the football conference because of the step up in competition.

Pac-12/Big Ten Deal

2012-02-08T17:13:00.001-05:00

I think this is a good deal for both sides because both conferences will get exposure on the west coast and in the Midwest. Football will be later on once all the schedules are ironed out, but you will see some of the Big Ten/ Pac-12 match ups as soon as next year. i know for mens basketball it will be the Big Ten's defense against the Pac-12's up-tempo style offense. Both conferences are very good in other sports look no further then this past fall where both volleyball teams were from the Big Ten and the Pac-12. I think the Pac-12 might have the edge in cross-country over the Big Ten due too better conditions to run in.

Coaching Changes

2011-12-23T17:09:00.001-05:00

UNC
I like the Larry Fedora hire because his team as So. Miss. were tops in all the major categories in C-USA. He had a top defense that liked to get after the quarterback and create turnovers. There was a good quarterback and receiver connection on the team as well. The special teams did their jobs very well.

Hawaii
Norm Chow was an outstanding hire for the warriors because not only is he a native of the islands, but he has a very sharp offensive mind as well. I think Chow will continue the tradition of having the quarterback spread the ball around to his wide outs. He can use he's west cost ties to bring players to the islands.

Pitt
This is a very good hire for Pitt because Paul Chryst will bring the Badgers smash mouth offense to the Panthers. When I think of Pitt I think of a hard working town that enjoys a hard working lunch pal type team which is what Chryst will bring to Pitt. It will be interesting to see how he utilizes his recruiting ties because he can use the Midwest, east coast, and maybe get players out of Florida as well.

Matt Barkley

2011-12-23T16:47:00.002-05:00

I think Matt Barkley made a smart move returning to school because with the sanctions lifted this year he can compete for a national tittle or a Rose Bowl Birth. Now hopefully nothing will happen to him this year as far as injuries go or that he has a down year which could happen. I think he could be a top pick in next year in the draft if all goes well. Some people felt that if he had come out this year that he would of been a top 10 pick.

Two Former High Profile QB going to Lawerance

2011-12-23T16:31:00.001-05:00

Kansas jsut picked up BYU transfer Jake Heaps would came in with a ton of fan fare out of high school but did battle some injuries in college and lost his job down the stretch. He's got a chance to compete with Notre Dame transfer Dane Crist who was originally commited to Coach Weis out of high so he is familiar with Charlie Weis's system. I like Christ to win the job because he knows what Charlie Weis wants to run offensively and he can play right away because he is a senior with a degree from Notre Dame.

San Diego State and Navy Big East Bound?

2011-12-23T16:24:00.001-05:00

Both San Diego State and Navy have been pretty good over the past couple of years making the usual bowl appearance. I think if they both go to the Big East it may be harder for them to compete for a Championship because I don't think they could win on a consistent basis. I'm surprised that the Big East wants SDSU because that is going to be a lot of traveling for them going from the west coast to the east coast and into Texas. Navy does bring the option attack to the Big East so that is a change that the conference would have to adjust too.

Ohio State

2011-12-23T16:00:00.000-05:00

I would have to agree with what happened to Ohio State because they did break the law and try to cover it up but it was only for tattoos and not for giving money to an agent or having a vehicle paid for by some one. The 9 scholarship limit is really not that bad at all because they could still sign a very good class with the limited amount of prospects.

My 2011-12 Bowl Picks

2011-12-16T22:33:00.001-05:00

Temple over Wyoming
Ohio over Utah St.
SDSU over La-Lafayette
Florida Int. over Marshall
TCU over La Tech
Boise St. over Arizona St.
SO Miss over Nevada
Missouri over UNC
Western Michigan over Purdue
Louisville over NC State
Air Force over Toledo
Cal over Texas
Florida State over Noter Dame
Baylor over Washington
Tulsa over BYU
Rutgers over Iowa State
Miss St. over Wake Forest
Oklahoma over Iowa
Northwestern over Texas A&M
UTAH over Georgia Tech
Cincy over Vanderbilt
Illinois over UCLA
Virginia over Auburn
Houston over Penn State
Michigan State over Georgia
South Carolina over Nebraska
Ohio State over Florida
Wisconsin over Oregon
Stanford over Oklahoma State
Michigan over Virginia Tech
West Virginia over Clemson
Arkansas over Kansas State
Pitt over SMU
Northern Illinois over Arkansas State
LSU over Alabama

My Chanpionship Game Picks

2011-12-02T14:42:00.002-05:00

MAC Championship
OHIO over Northern ILLINOIS

PAC-12 Championship
Oregon over UCLA

C-USA
HOUSTON over Southern Miss.

ACC Championship
Virginia Tech over Clemson

Big Ten Championship
Wisconsin over Michigan State

SEC Championship
LSU over Georgia

Leach back Coaching

2011-12-02T14:33:00.003-05:00

Mike Leach is a good get for Washington State because he will have his teams putting up points in bunches. Leach will be able to get kids from CA and from TX to help run his spread offense. I think Washington State could make a bowl next year because they have a good group returning its just of a matter of making the adjustment to the spread offense.

Airizona New Man

2011-11-26T14:29:00.003-05:00

I think Rich Rod was an interesting hire because he didn't do to well at his last stop at Michigan and he ran into some problems with the NCAA as well with his over practicing. Rich Rod should be better at Arizona because the Pac-12 likes to throw the ball alot more and the spread offense should fit in nicely at Tuscon. I'm not sure what ties Rich Rod has to the West Coast but I'm sure he will hire people with ties to the region. If Rich Rod can return to his glory days of West Virgina then they should be competitive if not then we could be talking about a new coach in a few years.

Ohio State

2011-11-26T14:21:00.002-05:00

If the Buckeyes do hire Urban Meyer which seems likely it gives them a coach who has won national tittles and he's an Ohio kid. There might not be much change with Meyer because Ohio State already runs a version of the spread offense and a 4-3 defense. Meyer can go anywhere and sell the program to anyone so they should be in on top prospects on a consistent basis. The only question with Meyer is how long will he be at Ohio State with his health issues? If I were him I would let my coaches help him out on game day so this way its less stressful for him during the game.

Penn St.

2011-11-26T14:12:00.003-05:00

Its going to be interesting to see once all the smoke is cleared what the NCAA is going to do with Penn St. I think they might limit how much time coaches and prospects have with each other, maybe take some wins away from JoePa, and they might not be able to compete for bowl games for a couple of years. Its going to be interesting to see who they are going to hire and who applies for the position as well. I think PSU is better off looking outside its coaching tree and get a coach like Miss. State Dan Mullen or Houston's Kevin Sumlin. Maybe they would consider an up-and-coming offense or defensive coordinator.

Missouri and West Virgina on the Move?

2011-10-23T18:57:00.003-04:00

If Missouri does leave the Big 12 I think it might hurt them moving into a new conference. I know that there was talk of Missouri going to the SEC but I haven't heard anything of late about the move. If they do make the move to the SEC i think they could be an OK team that will make a few lower-tiered bowls. The basketball team might be a middle of the pack team because they will have a tough time winning an SEC championship with Kentucky, Vandy, and Florida all being at the top.

If West Virgina does make the move to the Big 12 I think it is a great fit because they can come in and be competitive right away with their high scoring offense and a blitzing defense. The basketball team will have an advantage because they have a coach in Bob Higgins who knows the landscape already haveing spent a few years at Kansas State. They should be ready to win a few Big 12 Championships right away.

SEC Basketball 2011

2011-10-16T15:55:00.002-04:00

I like the Kentucky Wildcats to win the SEC. Yes they did lose players to the NBA draft this year, but they just seem to retool their offense and defense with a mix of old and new players.

1. Kentucky
2. Vanderbilt
3. Florida
4. Mississippi State
5. Alabama
6. Ole Miss
7. Arkansas
8. Auburn
9. LSU
10. Georgia
11. South Carolina
12. Tennessee

Pac-12 Basketball 2011

2011-10-16T15:55:00.001-04:00

Jorge Gutierrez and Allen Crabbe are two of the better Pac-12 guard tandems in league this year and together they hope to lead the Cal Bears to a Pac-12 Championship. Cal will need its front court players to step up their games and help out the guards more this season. The Bears overall have to improve their defense and stop teams from scoring some many points against them.

1. Cal
2. UCLA
3. Arizona
4. Washington
5. Stanford
6. Oregon
7. Arizona State
8. Oregon State
9. USC
10. Colorado
11. Washington State
12. Utah

Big 12 Basketball 2011

2011-10-16T15:54:00.001-04:00

Perry Jones will look to lead the Baylor Bears to a Big 12 Championship. Jones has the ability to handle the ball for his team if need be and he has a pretty good jumper as well. The Bears have a lack of experience in the backcourt to overcome. Hopefully they can live up to such high expectations early on.

1. Baylor
2. Texas A&M
3. Kansas
4. Missouri
5. Oklahoma State
6. Texas
7. Iowa State
8. Kansas State
9. Oklahoma
10. Texas Tech

Big Ten Basketball 2011

2011-10-16T15:53:00.000-04:00

It looks like Jared Sullinger and the Ohio State Buckeyes are the team to beat in the Big Ten this year. Sullinger will need other players around him to step up their games this year and be able to take the load off of him.

1. Ohio State
2. Michigan
3. Wisconsin
4. Michigan State
5. Illinois
6. Northwestern
7. Purdue
8. Minnesota
9. Indiana
10. Iowa
11. Nebraska
12. Penn State

Big East Basketball 2011

2011-10-16T15:52:00.001-04:00

I like the Syracuse because they have a roster that is filled with experience and depth. The Cuse have to hope the frontcourt can step up their game this year and become more productive for the Orange to win the Big East crown.

1. Syracuse
2. Louisville
3. UCONN
4. Pitt
5. Cincinnati
6. Marquette
7. Villanova
8. Notre Dame
9. West Virginia
10. Rutgers
11. Seton Hall
12. DePaul
13. Georgetown
14. South Florida
15. Providence
16. St. John’s

ACC Basketball 2011

2011-10-16T15:51:00.001-04:00

I like North Carolina because not only do they return four of the top players in the conference but they also have some very highly touted recruits coming in as well who could see time. The only problem facing the Tar Heels is trying to figure out a starting five and who will come off the bench.

1. North Carolina
2. Duke
3. Florida State
4. Clemson
5. Virginia
6. Miami
7. Virginia Tech
8. NC State
9. Wake Forest
10. Georgia Tech
11. Maryland
12. Boston College

SMU, Houston, Boise, and Air Force Big East Bound?

2011-10-15T12:57:00.006-04:00

All of these teams were offered to join the conference, but Air Force and Boise were happy wear they where at, and I think its because they have a better shot to compete for a championship in a much smaller conference. They were only offered as football schools anyway. If Houston and SMU do go to the Big East that gives the Big East a big market to draw viewers in from. Both Houston and SMU are two respectable football conference members, but I think they would really struggle in the other sports if they were to go to the Big East.

If Boise, Air Force and Navy all go to the Big East for Football then they could be considered a potential BCS Conference. All of these teams have had success recently and they each offer something different to the conference. I think Boise can compete for a Big East tittle right away. Both Navy and Air Force will offer something that the conference hasn't seen before and that being the option attack. All of these teams should be able to make a bowl game in their new conference. i wonder if the Big East will be extending an offer to Army any time soon.

UCF Big East Bound

2011-10-15T12:52:00.005-04:00

I guess UCF is going to take the Big East offer to join the conference in every sport. I think this is a good move for the school because it gives them some national exposure TV wise and it helps the conference out in football. The football team has a chance to compete for championships in the Big East right away. The basketball team on the other hand will be competitive, but it will be hard to win on a regular basis with Pitt, Louisville, and Syracuse in the league.

Mountain West and C-USA

2011-10-15T12:39:00.003-04:00

I guess you could call the Mountain West and C-USA the first big Mega Conference. I guess there are going to be separate divisions with a total of 22 teams. I wounder what the divisions are going to be called? I think this merger is for football only but I'm not sure? I guess they divisions would go 11 and 11. I would have though the Big 12 and the Mountain West would come together and form a league but I'm only basing that off of geography purposes only. It will be interesting to see if the two conferences decide to mix the teams together in each division or keep them the same and just have two separate division names for each conference? For example the Mountain West has one division name with all its members in it while C-USA has a division name with all iits members.

Early Sighiing Period in College Football

2011-10-09T13:43:00.002-04:00

I think there should be an early singing period in College Football because it gives the coaches and the players they are looking at a sense of relief that they will be with that school for the next four years. I think the early signing period should be done around the same time the soccer and basketball make there announcements of players which is in November. That way the coaches can say OK now we have have this many committed and now we can look at what other spots we need to fill. From a prospects standpoint he can be done with the process and not have to worry about coaches calling to sway him to their school or get phone calls from coaches telling him why he shouldn't go to that school because of this reason. The official visits that prospects take will probably have to be done either in the summer or in the early part of fall.

Pre-Season College Basketball Polls

2011-10-09T13:28:00.003-04:00

I think the Pre-season polls in College Basketball are really worthless to have because they serve no purpose early on in the season. Its good for fans and the media to see who is number one early one but other then that it doesn't mean a thing. I think the first College Basketball Poll should come our either some time during conference play in January or February. That way teams have earned the right to be in the poll and not have a pre seaon label of number one put on them so early in the season. The polls can still come out every Monday after the first one is released like it always does. It will give the schools more reason to fight for a spot in the polls since they only come out for a few weeks before the filed of 68 is released.

Pre-season Polls in College Football

2011-10-09T13:23:00.002-04:00

I think pre-season polls in College football are worthless to have because they don't really effect anything early on as far as bowls go. I think they should release the polls around the same time they do the first BCS Poll that was you won't have any arguments before hand saying why is this team number one and not that one.

TCU to the BIG 12?

2011-10-09T13:14:00.002-04:00

If TCU does make the move to the Big 12 I think that is a better fit for them then the Big East. TCU doesn't have to worry about traveling to PA or FL for games now they have a much shorter distance to go between Kansas and Oklahoma. I think they could have competed for championships in the Big East right away, but in the Big 12 you have to deal with OU and Texas every year. As a conference the Big 12 will give the hornfrogs more exposure national exposure on TV in different markets.

PITT and CUSE on The Move

2011-09-24T10:38:00.002-04:00

I don't know if I like Pitt and Syracuse moving to the ACC because I think it will be difficult for both of them to compete for championships in both football and basketball like they used to do when they were in the Big East. In basketball they have to compete with both UNC and Duke for the top spot in the ACC. i do think every once and a while a Pitt or a Syracuse might win an ACC tittle. In Football you have to deal with FSU on the rise and Virgina Tech. What Pitt and the Orange do bring to the table is a bigger market and now teams from the ACC can come into New York and PA and get kids come to them. The same could be said of Pitt and the Orange because they can use Florida and the eastern seaboard to their advantage as well to get players.

Recruits and Uniforms

2011-09-11T13:47:00.002-04:00

I always find it interesting that a kid likes a school because of the uniforms the team wears. I teams new uniform does get people talking. Maryland just got new unis and right away prospects and people and the media were talking about it the next day. i think some of the uniforms are cool, but I don't understand why there has to be so many different combinations of it. i often wonder how many kids a team do to their uniforms that they wear on Saturday's? I don't think it happens that often because the kids have to take a visit to the school first and see if they like the whole environment.

Texas A&M

2011-09-11T13:40:00.002-04:00

I think Texas A&M will go to the SEC in time. I feel that it is a good fit for both parties involved because now A7M can get more national exposure in other markets besides Texas. I still believe A7M will keep getting players from their own state, but maybe now they can go outside the state of Texas and be players from others states as well. The SEC teams can also invade Texas if they so choose and use the state as another place to go and pull kids from.

LSU QB

2011-08-27T14:54:00.002-04:00

I think with Jordan Jefferson out for the first game and maybe more depending on the case it could really hurt the team because he could run and throw the ball as well. For those that don't know Jordan Jefferson both into a bar fight. the case is still going on so it will be interesting to see what happens to him if he started it or did the other person start it. If he did start it then i think his season should be over, if not then he should sit out a few games.

Miami FL

2011-08-27T14:47:00.002-04:00

It will be interesting to see what happens to them once the NCAA is done with there investigation. I think having these boosters for the universities are both good and bad becaue they do bring in money, but they could also stear a kid in the wrong direction as well. I guess if I were an athlete and was offered money I don't know if I would turn it down either. I fell bad for the players coming in to Miami this year and next as well because they don't have anything to do with this whole mess. I thnk just like USC it could take the U a while to get back to where it once was.

College Basketball

2011-08-16T20:37:00.001-04:00

A college bball preview coming soon

SEC Football

2011-06-30T14:25:00.000-04:00

In the East I like South Carolina because two very good playmakers in running back Marcus Lattimore and receiver Alshon Jeffery. South Carolina’s defense loves to attack and put pressure on the quarterback quiet often.
In the West I like Bama because they have a very good group of linebackers, cornerbacks, and safeties with experience. Trent Richardson carries the load for the Tide offense.

My Picks
SEC East
1. South Carolina
2. Georgia
3. Florida
4. Tennessee
5. Kentucky
6. Vanderbilt

Sec West
1. Alabama
2. Arkansas
3. LSU
4. Mississippi State
5. Auburn
6. Ole Miss

PAC-12 Football

2011-06-30T14:24:00.000-04:00

I like Oregon in the North because of what they have back on offense. Their offense is filled with explosive wideouts, backs, and a dangerous quarterback. The ducks do need some help long the o-ling and on defense. I think with Cliff Harris being out for at least the first game; if not more for off the field issues could be a problem for the ducks.
My pick to win the South is Arizona State because they have a good group of players with starting experience back. My concern is if something happens to Osweller at quarterback then Sun Devils are left with only freshmen at the position.

My picks
North
1. Oregon
2. Washington
3. Stanford
4. Oregon State
5. Washington State
6. California

South
1. Arizona State
2. USC
3. UTAH
4. Colorado
5. UCLA
6. Arizona

Big 12 Football

2011-06-30T14:23:00.000-04:00

I like Oklahoma because they have players back who have played in big games and they know what it takes to win. They have experience at key positions mainly receiver, quarterback, long the line, and special teams as well.

My Picks
1. Oklahoma
2. Oklahoma State
3. Missouri
4. Texas A&M
5. Baylor
6. Texas Tech
7. Texas
8. Kansas State
9. Iowa State
10. Kansas

Big East Football

2011-06-22T20:26:00.005-04:00

South Florida looks like the team to beat in my opinion because they have a good defense returning and a dangerous quarterback in B. J. Daniels.

My Picks
1. South Florida
2. West Virginia
3. UCONN
4. Syracuse
5. Pitt
6. Cincinnati
7. Rutgers
8. Louisville

Big Ten Football

2011-06-22T20:26:00.004-04:00

In the Leaders division I like Penn State because they have a talent coming back on both sides of the ball. Hopefully they can settle on a quarterback, a healthy group of defensive ends, and can the line gel together?
For the Legends division I like Nebraska because they have a good amount of starters coming back at key positions for the Huskers this season. Hopefully the offense will improve after being predictable last year.

My Picks
Leaders
1. Penn State
2. Wisconsin
3. Purdue
4. Illinois
5. Indiana

Legends
1. Nebraska
2. Michigan State
3. Northwestern
4. Iowa
5. Michigan
6. Minnesota

ACC Football

2011-06-22T20:25:00.001-04:00

I like Florida State out of the Atlantic because they have a good amount of experience back at the skill positions and on the line.
Virginia Tech looks to be the favorite in the Costal because of what they have returning on offense. If the defense and special teams improve then the Hokies should be able to make a return trip back to the ACC Championship game.

My Picks
Atlantic
1. Florida State
2. Boston College
3. Clemson
4. Maryland
5. NC State
6. Wake Forest

Costal
1. Virginia Tech
2. North Carolina
3. Miami
4. Virginia
5. Georgia Tech
6. Duke

Fiesta Bowl Future in Doubt?

2011-04-07T10:51:00.004-04:00

What is going on with Fiesta Bowl are the rumors true. Since the CEO was fired for giving money to other people in Arizona, it will be interesting to see if the Fiesta Bowl will still be considered a major bowl after this turmoil. How will the bowl effect the National Championship game in the future? Will Arizona try to fight to keep it at its current location or will it have to be moved to another site? I Feel with the Fiesta Bowl's history of hosting National Championship games, it should still be considered a major bowl. With the Fiesta Bowl being a neutral site game it gives the players an opportunity to feel what it is like playing in a pro stadium. The Fiesta Bowl offers warm weather with the roof being open. There is the excitement of two teams fighting to prove they are the top team in college football.

68 Tourney

2011-03-13T19:34:00.003-04:00

What does everyone think of the field? Do you like it? I think that its a good thing to get a few more teams in, but why doesn't the NCAA just cut the NIT and have those teams in as well. There is going to be me for tV time for the tourney this year as well with coverage on TBS, TNT, and Trutv besides CBS. What does everyone think of this? It a good idea because if a game goes to over time then you can watch it w/o it cutting to another game.

Sleeper Teams

2011-03-13T19:32:00.001-04:00

Belmont
ODU
Zona
St. Johns
Oakland
Your picks?

Ohio State

2011-03-13T19:31:00.001-04:00

How can Tressel only get suspended for 2 games against tow easy MAC teams. If he new about the aligations he should be suspended for half of the season. Thoughts?

Tourney Picks

2011-03-06T13:42:00.001-05:00

Here are my picks for teams that could make some noise in the Tourney this year.
Arizona
St. Johns
Purdue
Florida
UNC

NCAA Doing Some Duck Hunting

2011-03-06T13:37:00.002-05:00

I guess Oregon is being looked into because they gave money to someone who was apart of a recruiting service in order to get a prospect for the class of 2010. I wonder if the NCAA will come down hard on them?

Trees At Auburn

2011-03-06T13:35:00.002-05:00

I guess Auburn has these trees that people look at and someone posioned them. The person that did it was a Bama fan and got caught by calling into a local radio and braging about it. What an idiot I think that's taking the rivalry too far.

New Big Ten Divisions

2010-12-13T15:16:00.003-05:00

I don't get why the BIG TEN did it this way to me it would of made more sense if the names were Midwest and Mideast or just West and East
Now I see the awards are going to be named after former players and coaches which doesn't make sense to be becuase you are called the BIG TEN and the championship is named after Paternio and the former Illinois coach to me it should just be called the Big Ten championship and be done with it.
Legends
Iowa
Michigan
Michigan State
Nebraska
Northwestern
Minnesota

Leaders
Penn State
Wisconsin
Illinois
Ohio State
Indiana
Purdue

My Bowl picks

2010-12-13T14:40:00.007-05:00

Bowl Picks

BYU over UTEP

NIU over FS

Troy over Ohio

Southern Mississippi over Louisville

Boise State over Utah

Navy over San Diego State

Hawaii over Tulsa

Toledo over Florida International

Air Force over Georgia Tech

West Virginia over NC State

Missouri over Iowa

Maryland over East Carolina

Illinois over Baylor

Oklahoma State over Arizona

SMU over Army

Kansas State over Syracuse

Tennessee over North Carolina

Nebraska over Washington

Clemson over South Florida

Notre Dame over Miami

Georgia over UCF

Florida State over South Carolina

Northwestern over Texas Tech

Florida over Penn State

Alabama over Michigan State

Michigan over Mississippi State

Wisconsin over TCU

Oklahoma over Connecticut

Stanford over Virginia Tech

Arkansas over Ohio State

Middle Tennessee over Miami Ohio

LSU over Texas A&M

Pittsburgh over Kentucky

Nevada over Boston College

Oregon over Auburn

Cam Newton

2010-12-13T14:40:00.004-05:00

Here is my take on the Cam Newton situation I think once he moves on to the NFL the NCAA might due some more investigating and may they might find something. I mean how could Can not know that his father was picking the school based on money? I think there might be more to this story then meets the eye.

Big Ten Basketball

2010-11-08T14:32:00.002-05:00

Michigan State
Could this be the year that the Spartans make it to the national title game?
Guards
Kalin Lucas is coming back from offseason surgery and hopefully he can be a consistent player for Coach Izzo because last he had a very sporadic year. Durrell Summers is good from long range and his athletic enough to go up and get a few boards. Korie luscious has a chance to really shine with Chris Allen no longer around. Another player to keep an eye on is Keith Appling who can play either the two or the one position. He’s also a very capable scorer.
Forward/Centers
I could see Draymod Green getting a few double doubles this year and he could really shine since he did lose some weight over the summer making him even more agile. Delvon Roe has been hampered by injuries the last couple of years and hopefully now he can put that to rest and show the Spartans that he is a very capable double double type of player. Derrick Nix is a very agile big man that can move down low. The one thing that he needs to work on is doing a better job at the line. Adreian Payne has a good offensive game, but I think he will need a redshirt year to build his frame up more.
Conclusion
If the Spartans can avoid the injury bug then they should be able to have success this season. If the low post guys can step up their games then this team should contend for a national title.

Ohio State
Can the Buckeyes fill the void left by Turner?
Guards
William Bueford looks to take over where Evan Turner left off and this could be his chance to shine this year. Jon Dieber could lead the Big Ten in the most 3-pointers. Both Aaron Craft and Leazelle Smith Jr. should see the court early. Smith is more of a pass first guard, provided he can get over a nagging wrist injury. Craft is more of a natural point guard, who also has a presence on the defensive end of the court. Jordan Sibert another true freshman loves to drive to the hoop.
Forwards/Centers
Dallas Lauderdale was the garbage man down low for the Buckeyes last year and he will continue that role again this season. Keep an eye on true freshman Jared Sullinger can shoot it from long range, dribble the ball, and be a force inside. I think once he learns the system the sky's the limit for him. David Lighty did get injured in the offseason so that is something to keep an eye on, but when Lighty is on the court he does whatever is asked of him by the coach. Deshaun Thomas can get his team points and also get on the glass as well.
Conclusion
I think the Buckeyes have a good chance to make it to the Eight 8 because they have some good players in Light and Bueford. If Sullinger comes in as good as advertised then this team could be a force in the Big Ten and come March as well.

Purdue
Can the Boilermakers survive the whole year now that they are without Hummel for the entire year?
Guards
E’Twaun Moore the Boilermakers leading scorer returns. Moore has a very good offensive skill set from inside the arc. Terone Johnson should see time right away because of what he is able to bring to the table which is a good build to him and the ability to do many things on the offensive end of the floor for his team. Both Lewis Jackson and Kelsey Barlow are good at driving to the hoop and attacking the rim with a reckless abundant. Jackson is also a good distributor with the ball in his hands. Anthony Johnson a true freshman could see time because he has a nice wingspan and he could be another option on the offensive end as well. Providing threats from long range will be Ryne Smith and John Hart.
Forwards/Centers
JaJuan Johnson is a force on both the offensive and defensive end of the floor for the Boilermakers. Patrick Bade is a tough rugged individual at the power forward spot and he has a nice midrange game. Both Travis Carroll and Sandi Marcus love to back their man down with their wide bodies.
Conclusion
I think with Hummel the Boilermakers had a shot to make a run at a Final Four, but now with Hummel done for the year I think this team looks like a sweet sixteen team.

Wisconsin
Can a new group of Badgers be able to make a push into March?
Guards
Jordan Taylor does a great job of not turning the ball over. And he’s like another coach on the court because he knows where to go to the basketball and pass the ball to an open teammate. Rob Wilson is a good player, but he just needs to improve on his defense and his perimeter game. Ben Burst is just a pure shooter who can hurt you deep from long range. While Josh Gasser can take his man down low and back him down. Forwards/Centers
Jon Leuer can give defenses fits because he can take his defender down low or he bring him out to the 3 point line. Keaton Nankivil is a good long range shooter from deep. The hope is that both Jared Berggran and Ryan Evans can step up their games this season for the Badgers. Berggran is able to distribute the ball and he has a good jumper to his game as well. What he needs to work on is moving better on the defensive end of the floor. Evans is a good in your face defender. Hopefully Mike Bruesewitz can give the Badgers more points and Tim Jarnusz can regain his touch from the perimeter.
Conclusion
The Badgers do have two good players in Leuer and Taylor. I think that if some of the role players can make an impact for the Badgers this season then I think that could make it into the round of sixteen.

Illinois
Can the Fighting Illini fight their way into the tournament this year?
Guards
Demetri McCarney can be a good player if he wants to be. The one thing that McCarney needs to work on is his touch from the three point line. D.J. Richardson is a good defender and he can also get his team points as well, while fellow classmate Brandon Paul shows a ton of potential and he can knock down the three. Joseph Bertrand has the versatility to play either the one, two, or the three position for the Illini. It will be interesting to see how Crandill Head does after coming back off of an injury last year. Forwards/Centers
Mike Davis has a good mid range game and he can grab a ton of rebounds for his team. Tyler Griffey is a very effective shooter who just needs to work on his defensive game a bit more. Jereme Richardson should make an immediate impact in his first in an Illini uniform. He has great court vision, and he can shoot it from beyond the arc. Mike Tisdale has a very good field goal percentage last year Meyers Leonard provides good height and he could fight for rebounds and put backs.
Conclusion
The key for Illinois this season will be a very tough schedule the beginning of the year. If they can survive it then they should be well on their way to March. This team has a shot to get into the second round of the tournament.

Minnesota
Can the Gophers make it three in a row with a return trip to the NCAA Tournament again?
Guards
Blake Hoffarber returns as one of the better three point specialists in the country and he will be helped out by Devoe Joseph who the Gophers hope can pick up where he left off during the Big Ten tournament by averaging double figures in points and starting to cut down on his turnover margin. Al Nolan looks to be the first player off the bench for Coach Smith. Nolan did a great job last year by taking the ball away from the other team, but some classroom work caught up to him and he was done for the year. Hopefully that part is behind him now and he can just focus on basketball while still keeping his academics in order. Maverick Ahanmisi could get some minutes in his first year in a Gopher uniform Austin Hollins could be a special player down the road because he gives the Gophers another three point option, and he’s smart with the basketball.
Forwards/Centers
Ralph Sampson III had a good second year with the Gophers so hopefully he can be even better in his third year in the system. Colton Iverson showed promise last season now hopefully it can start to come together for him. Rodney Williams is a presence on the offensive and defensive end of the court and he’s a very athletic forward. Two true freshmen that might get a few minutes on the court this year are Maurice Walker who needs to get into better college ready shape and Elliott Eliason who has good height and a long wingspan, but he will need to add some muscle mass to his frame so he can be ready to play in the Big Ten.
Conclusion
Minnesota has a very good frontcourt in Sampson and Colton and they should be met with double teams down low which could open up play for Blake Hoffarber from the perimeter. I think the Gophers can get into the second round with the players they have and how Coach Tubby Smith plays.

Indiana
Can the Hoosiers continue to show improvement in the Big Ten?
Guards
Maurice Creek was averaging double digits in points until his season was cut short by a knee injury. So hopefully he can show what he is capable of in the Big Ten this year now that he is back to a hundred percent. Matt Roth is a good scoring guard who needs to stay away from the injury bug if he hopes to have the type of impact that the Hoosiers think he can in his third year in the system. Verdell Jones III gives the Hoosiers another scoring punch. Jones just needs take better care of the basketball and improve his field goal percentage from long range. Will Sheeney just loves to shoot the basketball and Victor Oladipo can play either the shooting guard spot or he can slide down and play the small forward position. They will both pay defensive on the defensive end of the court as well. He will give a Hoosiers somebody who can shoot it from long range as well. When Jordan Hulls is on the floor he will take good care of the ball and find the open man. Jeremiah Rivers is a very good defensive player and he can pass the ball off as well.
Forwards/Centers
Right now Guy-Marc Michel is a presence on the defensive end because of his ability to swat the ball away, so he must work on improving his offensive game to further his deployment. If things don’t work out with Michel then look for Tom Prichard and Bobby Capobianco to get the call. Derek Elston and Christian Watford both show promise. Watford is good at getting his team points and cleaning the glass, while Elston can get a board or two and he can also hit the outside shot for his team.
Conclusion
If the Hoosiers can tighten up the defense and do a better job on the glass then the Hoosiers should see even more improvement this year. This team is digitally capable of making an NIT tournament or the CBI.

Northwestern
Does Cobles loss really impact the team that much?
Guards
Micheal Thompson seems to get unnoticed in the Big Ten, but that’s fine because he will just keep doing what he doing and let his court play do the talking for him. Thompson takes good care of the basketball, he can dish the ball off to a teammate, or he can spot up from behind the arc and let it fly. Drew Crawford has a very productive freshman campaign and hopes to improve on his first year success this season. Crawford can drive to the hoop and he has been known to get hot from long range. Alex Marcotullio could spell Thompson at the point if needed and he has a good midrange game. True freshmen Jershon Cobb should see time in the rotation this year. Cobb gives the Wildcats a player who can help out on the defensive side of the floor and he is an effective shooter.
Forwards/Centers
John Shuma really did his damage during Big Ten play especially when it came to getting points and he hopes to have the same success this season as well. Shuma can step out and hit the three and he can cut to the basket as well. Luka Mirkovic will provide his team with points and dished, but he needs to be more productive on the road when it comes to points and not just at home. Both Mike Capocci and Davide Curletti will provide help off the bench for the Wildcats. Capocci is a physical forward down low, while Curletti can hit the occasional three point shoot. Jeff Ryan was hurt all of last year so it will be interesting to see how does this season. He does give the Wildcats a player that can play the one, tow, three, or the four spot if needed.
Conclusion
I think Cobles loss might hurt them a little bit because he did give the Wildcats another double digit scorer and provided help on the glass. If the Wildcats can find a way to win a few games on the road this year and do a better job on the glass then they should be able to make a return trip to the NIT again this season.

Michigan
Who will pick up the slack in the points and rebounding department now that Manny Harris and DeShawn Sims are gone?
Guards
True freshmen Tim Hardaway Jr. is a smart ball player who can score the basketball and play some point if needed. Zack Novak will bounce between the two and three this season depending on how Coach Beilein will use him in his lineup. Novak is a decent three point shooter, but he must improve his three point field percentage and get a few more rebounds. Stu Douglass and Darius Morris bring two completely different styles to the point guard position. Douglass is more a threat from deep, while Morris loves to drive to the hoop and he’s good at moving without the basketball in his hands.
Forwards/Centers
True freshmen Evan Smotrycz can cause matchup problems with his ability to shoot it from the perimeter, but he must learn not to live out there all the time. Jordan Morgan and Blake McLians both redshirt freshmen offer good height down low, but McLians might need to add some more muscle to his slim frame and Morgan should be able to give the Wolverines a physical presence on the low blocks. Some true freshmen will have to play this season expect to see Jon Hortford who can do his damage down low and he knows what to do with the basketball in his hands. Also look out for Colton Christian who can take his man down low or bring him out to the perimeter.
Conclusion
I think it could take the better part the season just to see what lineup works well for coach Beileins club. They might win a few games this year in the Big Ten but I don’t think they have what it takes right now to be competitive.

Penn State
Battle can’t be a one man show for his team?
Guards
Talor Battle did everything he could to help his team win last year, whether it was getting a rebound for his team or needed to hit a big shot at the end of regulation. Two freshmen should see time early Taran Bule, and Tre Bowman. Both players are good scoring options to have on a team. Tim Frazier is good at getting up and down the floor, but he just needs to limit the turnovers. Jermaine Marshall is a good scoring guard who can cut to the basket as well. Cammeron Woodyard gives Penn State an option from long range.
Forwards/Centers
Hopefully Jeff Brooks can put up where he left off towards the end of last season by being a force on the offensive end of the floor for his team. Hopefully center Andrew Jones pick up more points and rebounds this season after seeing them dip a little bit last season. Maybe David Jackson can give PSU another scoring option because he has made a steady climb in the points department every year. He’s also a great blue collar type of player. Sasa Borovnjak and Billy Oliver will give PSU good depth off the bench.
Conclusion
I think Battle will need other players to step up and help him out this year because he can do it all on his own like he has done in the past for PSU. If PSU struggles again this year, then I think maybe Coach DeChellis might be looking elsewhere. Then again he might of bought himself a few years with the NIT title from 2009?

Iowa
Can Fran McCaffery turn it around in Iowa?
Guards
Cully Payne looks to be the right fit for what Coach Fran McCaffery wants to do with his offense and that’s push the ball more in the open floor. Payne should see his points, rebounds, and assists all go up this season under McCaffery. Matt Gatens a junior might have to shoulder the scoring role early on for his team since they are lacking experience right now. Eric May could be another option for Coach McCaffery's offense because of his ability to blow by defenders and get to the hoop. JUCO transfer Bryce Cartwright is a good backup point guard who can help out both offensively and defensively as well.
Forwards/Centers
Jarryd Cole should see a spike in the points this season after not getting many opportunities last year. Transfer Devon Archie and Andrew Brommer give the Hawkeyes good height down low. Expect to see a lot of Dawyne Marble and Zach McCabe due to a lack of numbers. Marble brings the ability to bounce between the three and the two positions. Both Marble and McCabe can hit the two’s and the three’s as well. I would say that Melsahn Basabe is a prime candidate for a redshirt, but since the Hawkeyes have such low numbers he will be forced to learn on the job this season.
Conclusion
It might now show in the win column for the Hawkeyes this season but they will be competitive and fight until the game is over. Once Coach McCaffery gets his players into his system it shouldn’t be long before Iowa hear its name called on selection Sunday.

Big East Basketball

2010-11-08T14:14:00.002-05:00

Pittsburgh
After being so close to the final four last year can Pitt make it this year?
Guards
Ashton Gibbs had a great year last year in the points department by reaching double digits. He should be able to either equal his point total from last season or he could even put up even bigger numbers this year. Reserve Guard Travon Woodall did well when he was on the court by distributing the ball to the right people and having over a hundred assists last year. Brad Wanamaker can do it all on the offensive end for his team he can pass, shoot, and grab a board or two which makes him dangerous. Freshman guard Isaiah Epps might see some time this year because of the type of style that he brings to the team is to get out and run in transition. Cameron Wright could also see some playing time because he can cut to the basket and he is good on the defensive end.
Forwards/Centers
I think Gilbert Brown just needs to be a bit more productive this year because he has the tools to be a good player he just needs to put them all together. Nasir Robinson is good on the defensive end and he will fight for a rebound. Gary McGhee will fight for good positioning inside and not let anyone get past him on the defensive end of the floor. Dante Taylor came in with a lot of fanfare out of high school and I’m sure the Pitt coaches are hoping that he can produce this year, which could mean big things for this team if that does happen. Redshirt Freshman Talib Zanna could be a good reserve off the bench for Jamie Dixon’s club because he can be productive on both ends of the floor. Once Freshman J.J. Moore starts hitting shots look out because he could hit quite a few in a row.
Conclusion
I think this team has a really good chance to break into the final four this year. Pitt has the ability to defend, score, and rebound with the best of them. They just have to hope that some of their players can step up their games this year in order to achieve that goal.

Georgetown
Who will be the force inside for the Hoyas this year?
Guards
The Hoyas have three guards that can do damage on the offensive end for them this year. Jason Clark is the Hoyas outside shooter from deep, while Austin Freeman and Chris Wright can score the ball in bunches. Freeman can also dial it up from long distance as well. True Freshman Markel Starks is a smart guard with some quickness to him as well. Starks can also put the ball in the hoop in need be. Vee Sanford should see his role expand with the Hoyas this year.
Forwards/Centers
Julian Vaughan is a good role player for the Hoyas who will get you the occasional point every now and then, but the question is how will he do as a starter this year? Henry Sims might have to produce this year with the loss of Monroe, but he will need to put on some muscle to his small 6-10 frame. Nate Lubick is a very smart basketball player who isn’t afraid of contact down low. Hollis Thompson could have a big year this year in his second year in the system.
Conclusion
The Hoyas could have a good year provided they could find some help down low. The three guards will get theirs, but some else has to step up and contribute on the blocks whether it’s a group of people or a freshman. If they can find answers in their low post game then I could see this team going to the sweet 16.

Syracuse
Who will emerge out of a group of role players freshman to start this season for the Cuse?
Guards
Mookie Jones can really shoot the ball from anywhere on the court, but he needs to work on his dribbling and becoming a better defensive player. Dion Waiters is a well built off guard who could hand the ball if need be and he isn’t’ afraid to drive the lane and get hit. Scoop Jardine is a pass first point guard, but hopefully he can increase his point total this year. While Scoops teammate Brandon Triche is more of a scoring guard and a floor leader.
Forwards/Centers
Kris Joseph needs to be a bit more consistent with his shot. Rick Jackson did well last year but hopefully he can play even better this year. True freshman big man Fabricio Melo could give the Orange a threat on the offensive and defensive side of the ball. Baye Mussa Keith is a very tall prospect but he will need to put some muscle mass on his frame so it looks to be a redshirt year for him this year. Another incoming recruit that could see some playing time this year is C.J. Fair who can be a very active defender in Syracuse’s zone defense. DaShonte Riley is a good player on the offensive end but can he last an entire game?
Conclusion
The Cuse do have a good group of guards that can score the basketball and play good defense, but how will the interior of the line play this year will be the question then needs to be answered? The Cuse do need to watch the turnovers this year. I think Syracuse can get into the sweet 16.

Villanova
Who picks up the slack for the Wildcats this season in the points department?
Guards
The Wildcats could have their two starting guards with the name Corey. Corey Fisher does a good job moving without the basketball and he can also hit the three from deep. Corey Stokes is a good complementary guard to Fisher because he can do a little bit of everything for his team. Maalik Wayns didn’t get many minutes last year because it was his first year on campus, but this year he has a chance to make his mark on the team he is very good scoring guard. Dominic Check should see his roles expand this season for the Wildcats this year so it will be interesting to see how he develops this year since this is his second year in the system. True Freshmen James Bell has a shot at seeing some playing time because of his ability to run the floor well.
Forwards/Centers
Antonio Pena put up some solid numbers last year but he should be able to put up even bigger numbers this season because he will be moving to the power forward which is a position where he can show his skills better this year instead of the center spot which is where he had to play last season out of necessity. It should be interesting to see the development of Mouphtau Yarou this year since he was out half the year last year due to medical reasons. Both Isaiah Armwood and Maurice Sutton give Jay Wright two good players who can give good minutes off the bench for the wildcats this year. True freshmen JayVaughn Pinkston has a good mid range game and he is very physical as well.
Conclusion
The Wildcats have good mix of youth and experience on the roster this year. My concern is depth because Jay Wright only plays 10 players so that could be a problem late into the season with injuries. I think this team could make it to the second round this year.

Marquette
After the Golden Eagles have made into the big dance the past few years can they finally get over the hump and get into the next round of the tournament?
Guards
Darius Johnson-Odom is a real threat on the offensive end where he can shoot from three point land and he can really drive to the basket. He did score in double digits last year for the Golden Eagles, but he does need to be a better job at the line and try not to turn the ball over so much. True Freshmen Vander Blue could really make his mark his first year on campus for the Golden Eagles this season. He is an outstanding defender and he can play the one, two, or three spot for this team. Junior Cadougan is now healthy after being hit with the injury bug last year. Cadougan is a well put together guard who has the ability to anticipate what the defense is doing and react to it accordingly. Reggie Smith could get some minutes as a backup point guard this year as a true freshman. Dwight Buycks could see his point total and rebounding increase with more playing time this season and knowing the system after coming over from the junior college ranks last year.
Forwards/Centers
Jimmy Butler hopes to have just as good a year as he did last year for the Golden Eagles. Hopefully Chris Otule can finally stay healthy after being hit with the injury bug for two straight years and true freshman DaVante Gardner needs to keep his weight in check in order for him to have an impact this year for Coach Buzz Williams. Jamall Jones can play either the small forward or guard and he can help at the defensive and offensive ends of the court. Joseph Fuice and Erik Williams are both good role players that can provide minutes off the bench for Marquette. Joe Crowder was one of the better junior college players last year and he can crash the boards and spot up for three as well.
Conclusion
I think if the new players can come together by the time Big East play hits this team should continue its trend of getting into the big dance. I think it might be another one and done for the Golden Eagles due to some guys coming back from injuries and how they are able to progress through the season.
West Virginia
Can the guards carry the Mountaineers this year?
Guards
Both Dolton Peeper and Casey Mitchell can play either the 2 or the 3 position for the Mountaineers. Pepper is a good shooter, while Mitchell can stroke the long ball. The point guard spot will be an interesting position this year because both Darryl Bryant and Joe Mazzuulla got hit by the injury bug last year so it will be interesting to see how they do this year. Mazzulla needs to step up his game in the points department and Bryant needs to let the game come to him and not be so quick to want to push the ball all the time in the open floor. Bryant is also a very good defensive player. Depending on both Mazzulla’s and Bryant’s progress West Virginia might look to true freshman Noah Cottrill who can distribute the basketball and be a threat to score it too.
Forwards/Centers
Kevin Jones did a good job on the boards and in the stat column last year, but this year he could be asked to do even more this year since Butler and Ebanks gone. Jones can be a threat from the outside or he can take the ball down low and bang inside to get his points that way as well. John Flowers is good at running in the open court, while Deniz Kilich can be a good low post presence scoring the ball for his team, and Dan Jennings can get on the boards. Two true freshmen that might see some time this season are Kevin Noreen has good face up game for a power forward, while David Nyarsuk needs to put on some more muscle so he might get a redshirt this year.
Conclusion
I think West Virginia can be good this year provided Mauzzulla and Bryant are able to stay healthy and some of the younger players can step up this year. They do have some good pieces coming back this year but I think they will only get into the first round and that’s it.

St. Johns
With one of the most experienced rosters in the Big East can this team finally get into the tournament with a new coach at the helm?
Guards
D. J. Kennedy is a jack of all trades type of player for his team. If you want points he can get you points, you want him to distribute he will do, crash the boards he can do that too. Dwight Hardy was able to get in double figures last year for the Johnnies, but his knees did give him some problems last year so hopefully that is all behind him now. I think Malik Boothe and Paul Horne should be in double figures this year because of how much they are on the floor together.
Forwards/Centers
Look for Sean Evans to have a real breakout year this year because he was the teams best rebounded last year. Both Justin Burrell and Justin Brownlee can get you points and boards when called upon. Dwayne Polee Jr. will see the court this year because of his athletic ability alone. Dele Coker is a presence down low with the ability to use his wide body to box out defenders.
Conclusion
St. John’s has all of the pieces in place now it’s just a matter of figuring out how to make them all work together. They did need some more production down low and the guards need to step up in the points department for this team to make it into March Madness. If everything breaks right for the Johnnies then they should be able to get into the big dance. If not then they will be in the NIT.

UCONN
Can the Huskies return to March Madness again?
Guards
Kemba Walker can jump in front of the passing lanes and get a steal on defense, while on the offensive end he can drive to the hoop or pass the ball out to an open man. True Freshman Shabazz Napier can hit the three and he has a quick first step to the hoop. Napier has the ability to hand the rock as well. Donnell Beverly is looked at as the elder statesman of the team this year with knowledge of the offense and defense to help guide the team this year. Jeremy Lamb is a scoring guard
Forwards/Centers
Alex Oriakhi needs to show that he has what it takes to be a starter again for his team this year after being pushed out in February. Hopefully Alex Majok can finally live up to all of the hype that came with him out of high school. Entering his second year in the system Jamal Coobs-McDaniel needs to work on shooting the ball better from the field. Charles Okwandu is a good player, but he still needs some more polish to his game. Roscoe Smith is a true freshman out of Maryland could make a major impact for the Huskies this year. He’s the type of player that coaches love to coach because he can do a little bit of everything. Niles Giffey can provide another deep threat from beyond the arc for UCONN.
Conclusion
I think with so many young players coming in and the questions that need to be answered first. I think the Huskies are an NIT team right now due to what I have said above.

Louisville
Where will the points come from this year and who will be crashing the boards for the Cardinals?
Guards
Preston Knowles is a three point marksman, but he did have a nagging wrist injury last year so hopefully that won’t affect his shooting this time around. Peyton Silvia this could be his break out year this year since he will be a starter this year. Silvia is a pass first type of guard, but the one thing that he needs to work on is preventing the other team from stealing the ball away from him. Roburt Sallie formally of Memphis can shoot the ball, plus he is a pretty good defensive player as well. The backup point guard spot could go to either Russ Smith who has more of a scoring mentality than a distributor at this stage in his early career. While Elisha Justice enjoys setting his teammates up with a perfect pass. Chris Smith formally of Manhattan is very capable of putting the ball in the basket from inside the three point line. Don’t leave Kyle Kuric open from beyond the arc because he can make a defense pay and he can just hit a ton of threes.
Forwards/Centers
Justin Coleman is a well built small forward that can play shooting guards as well. Coleman is a catch and shoot type of player who can really shoot it from the outside as well. Terrence Jennings has NBA potential, but right now he just needs to put it all together. Jared Swopshire can get the Cardinals rebounds, but the one area that he needs to work on is his field goal percentage to really make his mark this season. Can Rakeem Buckles be a night in and night out scorer and rebounder for his team? First year player Gorgui Dieng’s defense is way ahead of his offense at this stage of his career.
Conclusion
I think the scoring output might have to come from allot of different players this year not just one guy. Right now with the players that Cardinal have to replace and try8ing to find the right lineup this team looks to be NIT bound this year.

Notre Dame
Who will pick up the production now that both Troy Jackson and Luke Harangody have moved on?
Guards
This looks to be Ben Hansbrough team right now. Ben was in double figures last year in points and was pretty decent from behind the arc last year as well. He kept a good handle on the ball and very rarely did he have the ball taken away from him. Eric Atkins looks to be the backup point guard for now, but he can be trusted with the ball in his hands. If Atkins does start he and Hansbrough could play together on the court with Hansbrough playing the shooting guard spot. True freshmen Alex Dragicevich can lay the point in a pinch, drive to the basket and hit from the perimeter. While Jerian Grant will give the team an athletic two guard who has a good wing span. Joey Brooks is a very good defensive minded player off the bench for the Irish.
Forwards/Centers
Tim Abromaitis is a marksman from long range. Hopefully he can capitalize on his double figure point total from last season. Scott Martin formally of Purdue is coming back after a year away with an injury but he can really light it up from long range. Tyrone Nash is a good player on the low blocks and he is a pretty good defender as well. Like Nash Carleton Scott is another good post player down low and hopefully he can produce like he did down the stretch last season for the Irish by getting close to having double double.
Conclusion
I think this team has a shot at getting 20 wins but it depends on who steps up in the front court and at the ping guard spot? I think right now this team is NIT bound.

Seton Hall
Can Herb Pope be able to bounce back after having a health scare in the offseason?
Guards
Jeremy Hazell can really shoot the ball and did so by hitting the 20 point mark for the season. Keon Lawrence is a quick point guard, while Jordan Theodore has a chance to run the team this year. Eniel Polynice is an athletic shooting guard who can pass and shoot the basketball. Jamel Jackson gives the Pirates an option from deep.
Forwards/Centers
If Pope can play this season then he is a double double player for the Pirates this year. Jeff Robinson started to play pretty well down the stretch last season and hopefully he can capitalize on his performance last year. Ferrakohn Hall should see his role expand this season after playing very little last year. Two first year players Patrik Auda and Anali Okoloji could see the court this season. Auda can hit the 3 and Okoloji can help out down low. Fuquan Edwin is a good small forward prospect who has the ability to get his team points. I think Aaron Geramipoor is headed for a redshirt because he does have height, but he needs to add more muscle to his frame.
Conclusion
Harzell will get his, but he does need a presence down low to help him out. Polynice might be able to help Harzell out provide the NCAA can clear him to play this year. If Pope can play this year then he will definitely give this team a lift down low with his ability to score and crash the boards. I predict the Pirates will go to the NIT this year. Maybe the CBI if Pope doesn’t play this year.

Cincinnati
The Bearcats defense is in good shape, but can the offense improve this year?
Guards
Hopefully Cashmere Wright can have a better sophomore year than he did his redshirt freshman season. Another sophomore guard Jaquon Parker showed flashes of his potential last year, but now he needs to show that he can be a full time starter for the Bearcats this season. Redshirt freshmen Sean Kilpatrick can put the ball in the basket and he can cut to the hoop as well. The one thing that he needs to continue to work on is getting better from beyond the arc. Hopefully Larry Davis can show that he can be a consistent scorer from long range for the Bearcats this year. Dion Dixon is a good role player and he is very good at the foul line for the team.
Forwards/Centers
Both Yancy Gates and Ibrahima Thomas could be a very formidable one-two punch down low for the Bearcats this season. They will get Cincy points and boards this year. Darnell Wilks provides a spark when he is in the game because of what he can do on the offensive and defensive end of the floor. If Rashad Bishop can take care of some business off the court then he should be able to help the team out. Kelvin Gaines looks like a redshirt candidate right now, but down the road he should prove his worth. Justin Jackson could be a real terror on the boards the Bearcats.
Conclusion
If the Bearcats can get a scoring punch from their offense then they have a shot at winning more games this season. Can the guards step up and produce this year? Right now looking at this team they look like a CBI invite.

South Florida
Where will the points come from now that Dominic Jones has moved on?
Guards
Shedrick Haynes and Hugh Robertson have a real chance to shine early and often after coming from the JUCO ranks. Haynes can light is up from long range and he has a good vertical jump as well for only being six foot. Robertson can play either the shooting guard or the small forward role if he has too and he is another one who can score in bunches. LaVonte Dority looks to be the point guard of the future for the Bulls, so he will be a redshirt candidate this year. What he will give the Bulls is a player that can handle the ball, he can cause contact, and he knows when to take a shot and when not too. Another JC player Jawanza Poland can really shoot it from long range. Anthony is the only experienced guard on the roster. Both MIke Burwell and Shaun Noriega are two good defensive players who can also shoot the three.
Forwards/Centers
The Bulls have two very good low post players in Augustus Gilchrist who had gotten hurt late in the season last year, but is now ready to go and can be a threat again. He will be complimented by Jarrid Famous who I think has the potential to be a double double type player for the bulls this year. Both Ron Anderson Jr. and Tearlyn Fitzpatrick will provide good depth at the four and five spot for the bulls this year. They are both put together and are willing to crash the boards for Stan Health’s squad.
Conclusion
It’s going to be interesting to see how the guard play shakes out for the bulls this year because put front the bulls have a very good group of players. I think with Jones gone, the bulls won’t have to rely on just one guy to do everything for them this year. They can find points down low or from the outside. I think this team could be headed for the CBI because of the question marks at the guard spots right now.

Depaul
Can Oliver Purnell find success in Chicago?
Guards
Mike Stovall will be looked at as the Blue Demons primary scoring option this year, he also lead the team in steals this past year as well. Jeremiah Kelly dished out the most assists for the team last year. Both Brandon Young and Moses Morgan give the Blue Demons good height at the two guard position. Young also offers a long wingspan, while Mosses give Depaul a player that can shoot it from behind the arc. Michael Bizuukas is a good defensive player to have on the team.
Forwards/Centers
Krys Faber is a big presence down low and right now his defensive game is a head of his offensive game right now. Devin Hill is a power forward who has the ability to play inside or outside. He also blocked the most shots on the team last year as well but he must work on his free throws. Tony Freeland needs to play under control on the offensive end of the floor, while Eric Wallace gives you everything that he has while he is on the court. Mario Stula is a southpaw who can let it fly, while Cleveland Melvin can play the four or the three and he is an athlete that loves to get above the rim.
Conclusion
I think Purnell can turn this program around because he has done it before, but it will take some time to get it done. Chicago does have a good basketball area that Purnell can pick from so I may only be a few years before the Blue Demons are back in the thick of things once again.

Rutgers
Can Mike Rice be the coach to right the ship at Rutgers?
Guards
James Beatty and Mike Coburn are back for the Scarlet Knights at the point guard spot. If either Beatty or Coburn don’t work out then Rutgers can turn to Tyree Graham who has played division-1 ball before after coming in from the JUCO ranks. When Graham is on the floor he will get you points. Beatty can pass the ball and he can shoot it from deep. Another player who could bomb away from long range is Austin Carroll. I think Mike Poole can be used at either the two or the three spot depending on what lineup Coach Mike Rice chooses to use. Poole is good on the defensive side of the ball and he isn’t afraid to crash the boards to help out his team.
Forwards/Centers
Dante Miller had a pretty good freshman campaign but some of the things that I think he needs to work on are dishing out a few more assists and preventing the other team from taking the ball away from him. Jonathan Mitchell who once played for Florida will need to work on improving his production in the points and boards department this season. Austin Johnson should see his minute’s increase this year after playing sparingly last year. Gilvydas Biruta could see the floor early given his abilities.
Conclusion
Rutgers is thin and an injury could hurt them. Some players do need to step up and if they do then Rutgers might be a competitive team. If Rutgers can start to show improvement on the court then I think they could take advantage of a fertile recruiting area in NJ and they could also reach out into the NY area as well as Philly.

Providence
Can the Friars do a better job containing teams on the defensive end of the floor?
Guards
Gerald Coleman heralded recruit is good in transition and is a scoring guard. Vincent Council is now the starting point guard for the Friars and he was able to get double figures in points for the season, plus he got a few assists and steals along the way. He just needs to improve his defensive skills. True freshman Dre Evans will look to give Council a blow in relief and he can also be a threat from the perimeter for the Friars. Marshon Brooks needs to show that he can do other things besides getting points for his team. Duke Moody loves to shoot the ball, but he must show that he has an all around game to him.
Forwards/Centers
Bilal Dixon led the team in rebounding last year hopefully he can do the same thing again for the Friars this season. He just needs to work on improving his shot. Hopefully Ray Hall can finally contribute after having been hampered by injuries for the past three years? Both Kedeem Batts and Ron Giplaye are big beefy forwards that might be able to help out down low by using their wide bodies to box people out. Brice Kofane can block shots, but he must work on his offensive game more. Alex Gavrilovic is a skilled power forward.
Conclusion
It could be a long year for the Friars this year with so many new faces and players coming back from injury. The Friars might have to go through some lineup changes to find the right mix of players that will work for them this season. So if could be a long year for the Friars this season.

ACC Basketball

2010-11-08T14:09:00.001-05:00

Duke
Can Duke reload and get back to the national title again?
Guards
The Blue devils backcourt is loaded with players who can score the basketball. Nolan Smith will look to improve on his point total from last season when he averaged double figures. Kyrie Irving could be a good compliment to Smith and at times you could see the two of them together on the court at the same time. Irving who will be a freshman this year was the top point guard coming out of high school. Seth Curry can score in bunches and he can also light it up from beyond the arc. Andre Dawkins will look to improve on his three point percentage from last season.
Frontcourt
Kyle Singler is the leader of the team this year and he is a very good scorer as well. Ryan Kelly is a big who can take the ball inside and bang, but he can also shoot it from deep as well. Brothers Miles and Mason Plumlee will look to play more minutes this season and help out in the low blocks by getting the tough inside rebounds for their team.
Conclusion
I think Coach K can do a lot of different things with his lineups he could play with four guards and a forward, he could go with one guard and the rest forwards, or he can have two point guards on the floor at one time as well. I think with the talent Duke has coming back and what they have brought in, the Blue Devils have a real good shot to return to the title game again this year.

Virginia Tech
Will the Hokies be dancing come March?
Guards
Malcolm Delaney was the teams leading scorer last season, but he needs to improve his outside shot. Dorenzo Hudson did a good job on improving his point total from last season he just needs to work on moving without the ball better, become a better ball handler, and try to become a lockdown defender. Hopefully Erick Green can make a contribution off the bench for the Hokies
Forward/Center
Terrell Bell gets after it on the boards, plus he can be a good on the ball defender. I think this year Jeff Allen needs to show that he can be a double double machine for the Hokies this year. Hopefully Davia can give Virginia Tech another option offensively. The Hokies do get a transfer Allen Chaney but who knows when he will suit up for the Hokies this year due to so health problems that he encountered last year. If he’s good to go that could give the Hokies another body to use and someone who could produce for them as well.
Conclusion
Allen is the key for the Hokies this year if he can keep the foul total to a minimum each game and they can get help from other player’s besides Delany then this team has what it takes to get to the big dance this year. I think the Hokies have a shot to make it into the round of 16 this year.

North Carolina
After an uncharacteristic season can the Tar Heels recover and make a run to the tournament?
Guards
Larry Drew II is a good manager of the offense. Kendall Marshall is a good second option at the point because of his ability to pass the ball to the open man. Reggie Bullock can shoot the 3 ball but he can also cause matchup problems for the other team due to his height at the shooting guard position.
Forward/Center
Look for John Henson to have a big year this year for the Tar Heels on the glass and by swatting balls away. Hopefully the injury bug is gone for Tyler Zeller and he can now show what he is capable of for a full year. Harrison Barnes has a chance to do some real damage at his small forward spot for the Tar Heels this year due to his offensive and defensive capabilities. Transfer Justin Knox looks to be the muscle inside for UNC this year.
Conclusion
I think the Tar Heels should be back into the dance this year. They will be young and they have to keep the turnovers to a minimum this year but with the talent that they have coming in and welcome back they should be there come March. I think they can get into the second round this year.

NC State
Can Coach Sidney Lowe get his team back into the NCAA tournament and save his job?
Guards
Javior Gonzalez needs to be more productive for his team this year and continue to improve on the points, assists, and steals. Ryan Harrlow is a good scoring guard who could possibly start for the Wolfpack or he could provide good serviceable minutes off the bench for them as well. Scoot Woods can light it up from long range and so can Lorenzo Brown plus brown has a good knowledge of the game as well.
Forwards/Centers
Tracy Smith loves to bang inside and initiate contact so he can get to the line. CJ Leslie has the height, he can play anywhere from the shoot guard down to the power forward spot and he can get out and fill the lanes. Richard Howell can use his big frame to move people out of the way. Three other players can come off the bench if need be and help out as well.
Conclusion
I think this team has good depth, a good presence inside in Smith and a possible difference maker in Freshman Leslie. I feel that this team can get to the torment provided they can get consistent play from either Gonzalez or their freshman point man Harrow.

Florida State
Can FSU improve its offense to get past the first day in the NCAA tournament?
Guards
I think Michael Snaer could have a good year this year if he can improve from the 3-point line and cut down on the turnovers. Delvidas Dulkys is a threat from the perimeter and he could let it fly at will. Kitchen is a jack of all trades type of player he can shoot the ball when need be, pass it to an open teammate, or go for a loose ball. Ian Miller can play either the point guard if need be or he can go on the wing and play a little shooting guard if he has too.
Forwards/Centers
Singleton is a very good defender hopefully he can improve on the offensive end. Gibson is another force in the middle that takes up space and can swat the ball away. The Seminoles are hoping that Bernard James can come in and score points and get rebounds. Jon Kreft could play this season for FSU and he is only a freshman.
Conclusion
If the Noles can do a better job from the foul line and the three point line then they should get back into the dance.
Miami
Can the Hurricanes make a case for the dance this year being a year wiser and almost everyone back?
Guards
Durant Scott is a strong, quick guard that can take the ball to the hoop, plus he has the ability to drive and kick the ball out. Freshman Rion Brown could give the Canes a spark by either cutting to the basket or hitting the open jumper when called upon. Malcolm Grant has a sweet stroke and he isn’t afraid to let the ball fly from deep. Both Scott and Grant do a good job of taking care of the ball. Garrius Adams gives the Canes another 3-point bomber and someone who could cause matchup problems for the defense due to his height at 6-6.
Forwards/Centers
Hopefully the Canes can continue to get some quality minutes out of Julian Gamble this year and Reggie Johnson can show the progress that he has made toward the end of the season last year. Adrian Thomas is a good marksman from the outside hopefully he can take the ball inside more this year. DeQuan Jones is a good defensive player for the Canes. It will be interesting to see how Erik Swoope does because he has the build of a college player but I think he could be better used as a two guard because of his 6-4 frame.
Conclusion
I think with the experience that the Canes have coming back and a very good freshmen class coming in they could reach the first round of the tournament. Provided someone can step up besides Scott and Grant this year. They should have no problem getting into the NIT this year.
Clemson
Can Brad Brownell continue his winning ways at Clemson?
Guards
Demontez Stitt is a good three point shooter for a point guard hopefully he can avoid the injury bug this year. Noel Johnson does alright for himself from deep. Tanner Smith is a good serviceable guard who does his job when he is on the court. Andre Young is a feisty defender who will try to steal the ball if he can. Corey Stanton is a good scoring guard who will most likely get the call off the bench. Hopefully as a group they can hit the open three with more consistency this season.
Forwards/Centers
Devin Booker has some potential down low for the Tigers and he is only entering his second year in a CU uniform. Jerai Grant is good on the defensive end by swatting the ball away, but he just needs to keep on showing improvement on the offensive side of the ball. Hopefully Milton Jennings can start to live up to all of the hype that came with him out of high school in his second year with the team.
Conclusion
I think what the Tigers need to do in order to have a good year this year is shoot the ball better from long range, be better at the foul line, and get on the glass more. I think the team should be good, but I think they are a year away from the big dance. The Tigers should be able to make the NIT this year with all of the talent that they have coming back.

Maryland
Where will the points come from this season since the Terps lost most of their scoring from last season?
Guards
Sean Mosley might have to pick up the scoring slack for the Terps this season after Vasquez left. He is good at disrupting the passing lanes and he can be a defensive nightmare for his opponents. Bowie is a very good defensive player he just needs to work on when taking a good shot and when not to take a shot. Cliff Tucker is a good player, but he could go hot or cold during a game. Freshman Pe’shon Howard has a quick first step and he has good instincts with the ball in his hands. Another freshman that could see the court early is Terrell Stoglin who can help out in the scoring department this year and he could be a good backup guard for now.
Forward/Centers
Forward Jordan Williams could have a real breakout year in his second year in the system. He could average a few double doubles this year at least that is what the Terps are hoping for from him this year. Dino Gergory is very good on the defensive end of the floor and he is good at crashing the boards.
Conclusion
This team is young and it needs to find scorers, who can put the ball in the hoop that is why I think the Terps look to be an NIT bound club.
Georgia Tech
After losing so much talent can the Jackets recover and make it back into the NCAA’s again?
Guards
I think what the Yellow Jackets are hoping for is to see Mfon Udofla be in double figures the whole year like he was for the first part of last year before conference play started. Hopefully Iman Shumperts knees are good and ready to go for the season because he was a productive scoring option for the Jackets before his knees became an issue. He just needs to work on taking care of the ball better. Both Brian Oliver and Glen Rice Jr. can go off from behind the arc which means the defense shouldn’t let these two men get open because they could pay if they are left alone. Maurice Miller can hit the open shot when called upon for Coach Paul Hewitt.
Forwards/Centers
The question for Tech becomes who will be the force inside, bang on the boards, and get the points in the paint this year? Two redshirt freshmen could be starters this year Kammeon Holsey who was hurt all of last year so hopefully he is fully healed. Holsey can get out and run and he can hit the set shot. Daniel Miller can back his way into the lane and take his man out and hit a short jumper. He is also an asset on the defensive end as will with his ability to disrupt shots. Hopefully Brad Sheehan can give the Jackets another big body out there that can get some points and boards?
Conclusion
I think the Jackets need players to really step up their game this year if they hope to make it to the big dance. I think this year’s team might have to settle for either the CBI or NIT this year because there are just too many questions on this team right now especially up front where your hope rests on a group of very players. I don’t know if an NIT or a CBI run would save Paul Hewitt Job or not?

Wake Forest
Can Coach Bzdelik turn the naysayers into believers?
Guards
Freshman J.T. Terrell is a very good scoring guard, Chennault is a very good on the defensive side of the ball and he loves to penetrate the line. C.J. Harris can knock down the open look; even with a man in his face he has the potential to still bury it. Harris also needs to cut down on the turnovers. Gary Clark makes a living at the 3 point line.
Forwards/Centers
Toney Woods had high field goal percentage last year and he will look to do the same this season, while Ty Walker is a shot blocking machine and he lead the team in blocked shots last year. Carson Desrosiers is a good pure shooter and he can get on the boards. Ari Stewart needs to play under control and take better shots; he did hoist a lot of 3’s. Melvin Tabb can hit an open jumper, but he needs to work on his post moves down low. Travis McKie is a good shooter, but he needs to work on the rest of his game a little bit more. I would think he might get a redshirt this year so he can develop. Georgetown transfer Nikita Meshcharakou can play the two, three, or possibly the four spot and could get some more minutes in Coach Bzdelik’s system.
Conclusion
Coach Bzdelik wants to prove the doubters wrong by getting his team into the tournament. I think this team has some good players on it, but will they rely on a true freshman to run the team at the point or slide a two guard over to run it? Depth could also be an issue for Wake this season at the guard spot due to their lack of depth there. I think for now a CBI invite might be their best shot a tournament.

Virginia
A young team could mean future success down the road for the Cavilers?
Guards
Sammy Zeglinski did ok from long range, but you can always improve. He could be primed for a big year this year. Jontel Evans is a smart basketball player with the ball in his hands. Two freshmen should see time Billy baron who has a high basketball IQ. K.T. Harrell has the potential to have a triple double in a game. Mustapha Farrakhan is a reliable guard and the coaches know that the offense is in good hands with him.
Forwards/Centers
Mike Scott is now ready to be the man down low for the Cavs this season. Scott is very good at getting on the glass hopefully he can be better in his shot selection this year to go along with those boards? If all goes well for Mike this year he should be able to get quite a few double doubles. Last year Will Sherell was a walk on that was able to get playing time because he was able to grasp Coach Bennett’s system quickly so it will be interesting to see if he can get even more minutes this season with some new faces coming in? When Assane Sene enters the game his main job is to protect his area and reject any balls that come his way. True freshman James Johnson is a hard worker that will fight for every loose ball and board. The same could be said of another true freshman in Will Regan who is another tough as nail competitor who will give you all he has.
Conclusion
I think the Cavs might have a tough go of it this year, but Coach Bennett did bring in a good group of players who will be counted on this year. The Cavs might now win a lot of games this year, but they will be competitive and give the other teams in the ACC a battle every night on the court. This team looks to be a couple years away from contending.

Boston College
Can an Ivy League system work in the ACC?
Guard
Reggie Jackson can really thrive in the Princeton offense because he doesn’t turn the ball over. Dallas Elmore can hit the consistent jumper and he is good with the ball in his hands as well. Both of BC’s two true freshmen Danny Rubin who can hit it from deep and Gabriel Morton will see time early due to a lack to depth at the guard spot. Biko Paris is a good point guard for his team, but his offense could use a jump start.
Forward/Centers
Joe Trapani can do it all he is a good inside out player he hit the two or the three at any time. Corey Raji can do the dirty work down low for the Eagles. Josh Southern is a cog in the middle that can get you the occasional point or put back if need be.
Conclusion
This year’s team is just a few players away from being in trouble depth wise. It may take a year or two for Coach Steve Donahue to get the players that he needs to fit his system but the Eagles will be a team that is not that easy to put away once that happens.

College Basketball

2010-09-28T15:43:00.001-04:00

Look for my thoughts on the up coming basketball season in the coming month

Other NCAA News

2010-09-28T15:42:00.001-04:00

BYU
It’s interesting to me that they decided to go independent in football because I don’t know who would want to play them besides the PAC-10 soon to be the Pac-12, or maybe the WAC, MWC or Houston? BYU’s move to the WCC seems odd to me because now they have gone to a smaller conference for their other sports and they might do good there they might not who knows.

Fresno State and Nevada
I think these two teams kind of jumped the gun to move up to another conference because if they stayed where they were they could have been on top of the league for years to come. Fresno does bring some credibility to the MWC beating some good teams in the past but they have struggled recently though. Nevada now gets its rival UNLV in conference and they bring a new element to the MWC that being the famed Pistol offense which should be fun to watch in that league.

Boise State
At the time this looked like a very good move for Boise because not only was is a step up in conference but would of given them a good group of teams to match up against with TCU and BYU, but now Boise is left without a shot at BCS league and it looks to be them and TCU could be the main contenders for the Mountain West crown.

WAC
I’m not sure what’s going to happen to this conference because as it stands right now they only have 6 teams left so do they try and go after a Montana who has won a championship at the D-1AA member or do they stand as they are? Could they merge with a C-USA and make a super-conference the only problem with that is going to be travel costs. If I was the WAC I would see if the MWC would want to make a super-conference with them that might cut down on expenses?

USC
I think what the NCAA did was right in putting them on suspension for 4 years but what I don’t get is why are they only banned from bowls games for two years I think it should be the same as the suspension. USC also has to be picky on who they recruit now that they only have a limited number of scholarships to give out with the max being 25 and they can only sign 15 for the next 4 years.

PAC-10

2010-09-28T15:27:00.000-04:00

Oregon State
Offense
Can the Beavers win the P-10 this year? QB Ryan Katz seems poised to take over the position and he did get some time in the offense last season. Running back Jaquizz Rodgers will get the bulk of the carries this season and he has a shot at the Heisman depending on how he does this season. He’s also a good option out of the backfield as well. James Rodgers is a very good first option at wide out and he could get help this season from Markus Wheaton and Jordan Bishop. The line has a good nucleus made up of sophomores, juniors, and seniors.
Defense
The line is anchored by Stephen Paea who is a load at d-tackle and he could find himself playing on Sundays as well. It will be interesting to see how linebacker Keith Pankey will do this season after coming off an injury in the spring. So a new group of linebackers might have to found this year. Both safeties and a corner return and they would like to get more picks this season instead of giving up the points.
Special Teams
James Rodgers is electrifying with the ball in his hands and he will be doing both punt and kicker returns this season. Kicker Justin Kahut has a strong leg he just needs to make more of his extra points. Punter Jason Hekker will look to make an even bigger improvement this season on his net punting.
Conclusion
If Kartz can be a good manager of the offense then the Beavers should have a very good cast to help him out and they could be a top offense in the Pac-10 this season. The defense will need to get more heat on the quarterback and hope that linebackers can produce this season. I predict a 9 wins season for Oregon State and a Rose Bowl berth.

Oregon
Offense
Can the Ducks bounce back after a rough offseason? The quarterback battle between Nate Costa who has a very good arm but is injury prone and Darron Thomas who can run but he just needs to throw the ball better. The line has everyone back and the wide outs are led by Jeff Maehl. Running back LaMichael James who had a very good first season running the ball and hopefully Kenjon Barner will be a good complimentary back to James.
Defense
There are plenty of options at linebacker keep an eye on Josh Kaddu and Bo Lokombo could have a big year this year. Kenny Rowe who was the Ducks sack artist last season is not very tall, but what he lacks in height he makes up for in quickness and that is what the line will rely on this season it’s how fast can they get to the ball carrier. Talmadge Jackson is a reliable corner and Cliff Harris should come into his own this season at the other corner spot. John Boyett the Ducks leading tackler is back and Eddie Pleasant will bring his big hit mentality to the other safety spot.
Special Teams
By the time Jason Rice’s career is over he could be one of the top punter’s in the Pac-10 and the same could be said for Rob Beard has a huge leg, but he is not very consistent on his kicks and could end up losing his job to true freshman Alejandro Maldonado.
Conclusion
It could be a two QB system with Thomas and Costa this season. The Ducks have the line, running backs and wide outs to have a successful season on offense this year. The defense should be one of the top defenses in the Pac-10 this season with all of the experience that they have coming back a key positions. I predict an 8 win season is very likely.

USC
Offense
Can the Trojans bounce back after a disappointing season last year? QB Matt Barkley is hoping to improve on his freshman stats from last season and do an even better job this year. Ronald Johnson will lead the receiving crop provided he is able to stay health this year. Keep an eye on two true freshmen who could get some time at wide out this year Kyle Prater and Robert Woods. The line does have three key players back at center, right tackle, and left guard, but they are very line along the line as well. There are a good group of backs ready to carry the load for the Trojans this season and they are Allen Bradford, C.J. Gable, and true freshmen Dillon Baxter.
Defense
Tackle Jurrell Casey will lead the line, but one starter who would have played this season tackle Christian Tupou is out due to a knee injury that he suffered during the spring. Either Nick Perry or Malik Jackson will both see time at the right defensive end spot. The linebackers return with Malcolm Smith and Michael Morgan on the outside with possibly Devon Kenord and Chris Galippo both seeing time in the middle. The corners and safeties will have a whole new group this year with Shareece Wright locking down one corner spot while there appear’s to be a battle for the two safety spot’s between T.J. McDonald, Drew McAllister, and Jawanza Starling. Also in a battle at the other corner spot are Torin Harris, T.J. Bryant, and Brian Baucham.
Special Teams
John Hartman will probably be doing both punting an kicking for the Trojans this season. A new punt returner must be found and it’s not like they are hurting for players with Baxter, Johnson, Travon Patterson all getting looks. Johnson is one of the more electrifying men in the country at kick returns.
Conclusion
The offense should be ok with the stable of backs that the Trojans have and a now experienced QB in Barkley. The line will have to hope that no one gets hurt and that the wide out’s can produce more this season. The defense will have to hope the new players in the secondary can improve as the season goes on since they will all be new this year. The linebackers and line should be good this year with provided they can find a replacement at tackle and who will start at middle linebacker and at right defensive end. I think the Trojans will win 8 games this year. Even though the Trojans would make a bowl with an 8 win season, they are ineligible for two years due to NCAA violations.

Washington
Offense
Can the Huskies return to a bowl game again? The Huskies have a very good QB in Jack Locker. Both the Huskies leading rusher Chris Polk and its top receiver Jermaine Kearse are back. Devin Aguilar and James Johnson and Kearse could form a good trio this year in the Pac-10. Hopefully tight end Kevario Middleton will be evne more productive for the Huskies this season like he was down the stretch last season. The O-line has a good group of players that have played before and they range from seniors through sophomores.
Defense
Both starting tackles are back, but new d-ends must be found and they are also very thin at this spot as well. Mason Foster the Huskies leading tackler from last season is back at linebacker. Both Desmond Trufant and Adam Long are two very reliable corners.
Special Teams
Kicker Eric Folk and Punter Will Mahan are two very reliable weapons to have at your disposal. Polk could do the kick returns but there are others who might challenge him for the kick return spot.
Conclusion
The offense should be able to put up points in bunches this season; it’s the defense that will need to step up this season. The defense will have to see if they can find some defense ends that could start for them and be productive as well. I predict a 7 win season for Washington this year.

Stanford
Offense
Can the Cardinal prove that they are not a one trick pony and get back to another bowl game this year? QB Andrew Luck had a very productive first season as the signal caller for the Cardinal and he will look to capitalize on his success this year. Both Ryan Whalen and Chris Owusu are now upperclassmen but they are thin at the position at well. Stanford is hoping that either Jamal-Rashad Patterson or Drew Terrell can be that guy who puts the fear into defenses this season. Levine Tiololo could be a weapon at tight end for Luck to throw too. Along the line only the right tackle spot will have someone new in it. The Cardinal could use a committee approach at tailback this year with Jeremy Stewart, Stephan Taylor, and Tyler Gaffney.
Defense
The line will be headlined by Sione Fua and Matt Masifilo who are two big cogs in the middle. Both Chase Thomas and Thomas Keiser are making the switch to the outside line backing spots after playing d-end last year. Owen Marecic will be doing double duty this year not only will he continue his role at fullback, but now he will be playing the middle line backing spot as well. Shayne Skov should flourish as a start and possibly make the case for all-conference honors this year. Delano Howell seems to be reliable, but corner Richard Sherman is hoping to be more dependable this year. The other corner spot and free safety spot are up for grabs this year.
Special Teams
Owusu and Sherman are two of the better return men in the Pac-10 this season because they give the Cardinal good field position. Kicker Nate Whitaker only missed six field goal attempts last year and there is a battle between David Green and Daniel Zychlinski for the punting job.
Conclusion
Stanford has a good quarterback and a good line blocking for him. The question is can the backs be productive for the Cardinal’s this year, and will one of the receiver’s be able to be that one guy that can be consistent for them this year. How long will it take the players to get used to their new positions at linebacker? Also how will the corners and the free safety due this year? If the Cardinal can answer these questions then I predict a 7 win season for them.
UCLA
Offense
Can the Bruins improve their win total from last season? UCLA is running a new offense called the Revolver it’s basically their version of Nevada’s Pistol offense. In the new offense running back James Franklin and James Coleman should be able to rack up the yards and QB Kevin Prince should be able to throw ball quicker. True Freshmen Jordan James and Malcolm Jones could also see time in the backfield this season. The line only has to fill the left tackle spot. The Bruins have a good trio of wideouts in Taylor Embree, Nelson Rosario and Josh Smith and let’s not foreget about the tight end either in Cory Harkey.
Defense
End Delone Jones and d-tackle David Carter drew praises from the coach’s, but the other two spots are wide open. The leading tackler from last season is back that being Akeem Ayers. UCLA thinks that Sean Westgate will be the start next to Ayers. A battle that could go on into the fall is at the middle linebacker spot between Steve Sloan and Patrick Larimore. Both starting safeties are back along with Sheldon price at one corner spot and Aaron Prince at the other one.
Special Teams
Josh Smith should help the Bruins out on returns and both Jeff Locke and Kai Forbath are two of the best at what they do that being punting and kicking respectively.
Conclusion
The offense has the pieces in place to really do some damage this season as long as the running game can have a good year this year. Hopefully the defense can fill the holes in that they need to and be stout on this side of the ball this upcoming year. I think the Bruins will win 7 games this year.

Arizona
Offense
The defense doesn’t return a lot so how good will they be, is the question that must be answered. QB Nick Foles racked up a lot of yards last year and hopefully he can make improvements on his touchdown to int ratio because he only had ten more tds to ints last year. Matt Scott could also see time at the QB spot since he is the better runner of the two. There are lots of options to choose from at running back Nic Grigsby who is more of a shifty back, Keola Antolin is more of between the tackles type of back, Greg Nwoko, Taimi Tuiogi are two power backs, and last is Daniel Jackson. Justin Criner is the headliner at the receiver position and adding to mix are David Roberts, Delashaun Dean, and David Douglas all have been in the system and know what to do and where to go. The line is anchored by Colin Baxter at center and Adam Grant at left tackle.
Defense
Ricky Elmore and Brooks Reed are back at their d-end spots after leading the team in sacks last season. D’Aundre Reed and Apaiata Tuihalamaka will also see time on field this year because of how quick they are off the ball. Both Jonathan Hollins and Dominique Austin could make some noise this season at tackle for the Wildcats. All three linebacker spots are wide opened. Some candidates to fill those spots are Derek Earls, Paul Vassallo, and Jake Fischer who is small in size but he makes up for it with his inelegancies on the field. Trevin Wade and Robert Golden are two very good players, but the question is do they both start at corner, safety, or one at corner and one at safety? Some other players that could see time are Adam Hall, Joe Perkins, and Marquis Flowers.
Special Teams
Both Bug Wright and Travis Cobb are returners that kickers want to kick away from because of what they can do with the ball in their hands. Hopefully punter Keenyn Crier can improve on his consistency this year and kicker Alex Zendejas can kick from a longer distance this year.
Conclusion
The offense should be fine this year, but can the defense improve? If the defense can find answers at the linebacker spots and figure out where to put Golden and Wade on the field then I predict a 7 win season for the Wildcats this year.

California
Offense
With Cal being under the radar could that mean more wins for them this year? The running game shouldn’t miss a beat with Shane Vereen carrying the load for them this season. The Bears are hoping that quarterback Kevin Riley can improve on his completion percentage from last season. The Bears leading receiver Marvin Jones is back and so is Jeremy Ross, but the rest of the unit looks to very young. The line is lead by center Chris Guarnerno and Matt-Summers Gavin at guard and they must be more consistent along the line of scrimmage this year.
Defense
End Cameron Jordan is back at end and he hopes to get after the quarterback more and tackle Derrick Hill could get a challenge from Kendrick Payne this year. Mike Mohamed is one of the better linebackers in the Pac-10 this year, but he needs some help from other players around him and someone who could help out is Chris Martin. D.J. Holt could also step in and help after playing sparingly last season. Sean Cattouse is a good one at free safety and it could be a battle between Darian Hagan and Josh Hill. Both Bryant Nnabuife and Sean Conte should both start this year.
Special Teams
Cal has one of the better punter’s in the Pac-10 in Bryan Anger. Georgio Tavechio has a slight edge on Vince D’Amato for the starting kicking job, but they both need to more consistent with their kicks. Jeremy Ross is a reliable punt returner and Isi Sofele is a very quick return man on kickoffs.
Conclusion
The line should do well this season and so should the running game, but can the QB improve upon his completion percentage from last season and how will the young receivers do this year? How will the linebackers and secondary shack out? I predict a 7 win season for the Bears this year.

Arizona State
Offense
The defense should be in good should be this year, but the question is how good can the offense be? The quarterback position is up for grabs between Steven Threet, Brock Osweiler or Samson Szakacsy. Cameron Marshall is back at running back, but he will need to gain more this year than he did last year. The receiver’s need to produce more this year and hoping to increase the productive is Kenny Taylor, Greg Robinson, and Aaron Pflugard who was a Oregon last year. The line has good depth and it is headlined by Garth Gerhart.
Defense
Lawrence Guy who could make a case for All-American honors this year and Safa Falahola are two big cogs up front that will anchor the line of scrimmage. Middle linebacker Vontaze Burfict was a terror last year for the Sun Devils and for the rest of the Pac-10 as well. Burfict, Shelly Lyons, and Brandon Magee should form a good linbacking duo in the league this year. Omar Bolden is back a cornerback and he will lead the charge in the secondary this year for ASU.
Special Teams
Returner Jamal Miles is dangerous with the ball in his hands. Bolden will also be back on return team as well. Hopefully Thomas Weber can regain his form again after being injured last year. Trevor Hankins did a very good job punting last and hopes to do an even better job this season.
Conclusion
Who will win the QB battle is the main question right now for ASU to answer on offense. The defense should be tops again in the league, but how long can it carry the team for. I predict a 3 win season for the Sun Devils this year.

Washington State
Offense
Can the Cougars show improvement this year? If James Montgomery can carry the load for the team this season after coming off an injury that could be good news for Cougar fans if not then you might see a rotation of Marcus Richardson, Carl Winston, Logwone Mitz, and Charles Staden. There is a good QB race going on between Jeff Tuel who can either throw it deep or he can tuck it and run. The other option is Marshall Lobbestael who is coming back from an injury that occurred last year. Washington State does have a good group of wide outs to throw to lead by Jared Karstetter, Daniel Blackledge, and Gino Simone. Look for Isiah Barton to also be in the mix at receiver as well after making the move from junior college. Hopefully the line can allow the quarterback to make more plays this year. Andrew Roxas is trying to be the new center this year for the team and also hoping to see some action along the line are Wade Jacobson and David Gonzales.
Defense
Both Travis Long and Kevin Kooyman should form a very good defensive end duo. Also don’t forget about Casey Hamlett who started the year before Both Brandon Rankin and Bernard Wolfgramm looked good in the spring, but Wolfgramm does need to take care of some work in the class room this year. Dan Spitz has the ability to play either tackle or end. Alex Hoffman-Ellis is back after leading the team in tackles last year and joining him will be Myron Beck who was at safety last year. They will both be playing at outside linebacker, while Mike Ledgerwood looks to be the starter for now that could change once Louis Bland comes back from injury. LeAndre Daniels returns from injury at strong safety and so does Daniel Simmons at cornerback.
Special Teams
Nico Grasu needs to be more consistent on his kicks and the Cougs do have a very good weapon in Reid Forrest. Chantz Staden is back for return duty after being out with an injury last year.
Conclusion
How will the line do this year, can Montgomery carry the load after being injured last year, can the defense stop any one this year? If the injury bug hits then the team could be in some trouble. I predict a 1to 2 win season for the Cougars this year.

SEC West

2010-09-28T15:22:00.001-04:00

Alabama
Offense
Can the Tide repeat as national champs again? Greg McElory is a good manager of the offense. Mark Ingram and Trent Richardson could form one of the top running back duos in the SEC this season. Julio Jones leads a very experienced group of wide outs. The line does have three players returning with the left guard spot being opened and the right tackle which could be filled by D.J.Fluker who was a very coveted tackle prospect coming out of high school.
Defense
Some of the role players from last season will now be starters and two players that could have a big season this year are d-end Marcell Dareus and Kerry Murphy at tackle. Dont’a Hightower will be leading the line backers this season after being out last year with an injury. Safety Mark Barron is the only player back with experience at that spot. The other safety spot and both corners are new as well and all could be filled in with younger players.
Special Teams
New players must emerge at kicker, punter, and on returns as well.
Conclusion
I think the Tide will be able to plug in the holes that they need to on offense and they could be even better this season. The defense will need new players to emerge at linebacker and at the corner spots. I predict the Tide will win 14 games this season and be crowned the champs again.

Auburn
Offense
Can the Tigers capitalized on their success last season? Cameron Newton seems to be the starter for the Tigers this season and he is a very mobile QB. Mario Fannin will be stepping in at running back and if he doesn’t do well then true freshman Michael Dyer will be looking to take his place. Darvin Adams and Terrell Zachery are two very good options at wide out, but the Tigers are looking for more catches from other players as well. The o-line has good group of upperclassmen on its roster and they should be ready for the rigors of the SEC.
Defense
The d-line has some experience behind it and other players are hoping to be rotated in. All three starters are back at linebacker. Josh Bynes is very good against the run and Craig Stevens could be an All-SEC selection this year. Three potential starters at corner and safety Aairon Savage, Mike McNeil, and Zac Etheridge are all coming off injuries from last year.
Special Teams
Kicker Wes Byrum will look to continue his success this season just like he did last year. Ryan Shoemaker could win back his punting job, that’s if he could beat out true freshmen Steven Clark for it.
Conclusion
Can Newton be the man at QB, will Fanin finally live to the hype, and will someone be the number three receiver for the Tigers on offense this season? The defense is very deep along the line and at linebacker. The unknowns are in the secondary due to injuries. I predict a 9 win season for the Tigers.

Arkansas
Offense
The offense should be good this season but it remains to be seen if the defense can make improvements this season? QB Ryan Mallett put up some pretty impressive numbers last season and he looks to improve on those stats this season. Mallett has plenty of weapons to throw to including Greg Childes, Joe Adams, Jarius Wright, and Cobi Hamilton. Tight End D.J. Williams is another option for Mallett to throw too. There are four backs that could carry the load at running back this season and they are Broderick Green, Ronnie Wingo Jr., Dennis Johnson, and Knile Davis. Four experienced line man are back and they are all upperclassmen.
Defense
The Hogs were great at getting the turnover last year they just need to work on preventing the other teams offense from putting up some many points and giving up so much yardage. The line has a lot of different players that it can work with and they have all played before. D.D. Jones and Byran Jones could both make a big impact this season for the Hog’s at the tackle spots. Jerry Franklin, Freddy Burton, and Jerico Nelson all need to tackle better this year. The corner and safety spots have lots of different people that can start and they have good depth behind it.
Special Teams
Every aspect of special teams needs to be better this season.
Conclusion
The offense shouldn’t be a problem for the Hogs this season. As long as the defense and special teams can make strides this season I predict an 8 wins season for the Hogs.

LSU
Offense
Can the Tigers generate a spark on offense this season? Quarterback Jordan Jefferson needs to be more consistent with the offense and avoid being sacked. The backfield has a good mix of experience and youth. Steven Ridley is the straight ahead pound the ball in their type of runner, while Richard Murphy has the best hand out of the group and Michael Ford can do a little bit of everything. The line only has two starters coming back and it’s on the left side of the line. The Tigers have a trio of wide outs that they could use lead by Terrance Tolliver, Rueben Randle, and Russell Shepard who made the switch to receiver after being the backup at quarterback last year.
Defense
On this side of the ball there will be lots of inexperience. The line does have some speed on it and Lazarius Levingston has the most experience of group. End Sam Montgomery could have a big year this year. Kelvin Sheppard is back at linebacker after leading the team in tackles last season and there will be some new outside linebackers besides him. Both safeties are back and have a wealth of experience between them. Patrick Peterson is a very good lock down corner so teams will not be throwing in his direction that often which means Morris Claiborne must be ready for more balls to be thrown in his direction.
Special Teams
Kicker Josh Jasper and punter Derek Helton are two very dependable special team players. Shepard and Peterson have the ability to take kickoffs to the house.
Conclusion
If the line can make strides during the season, then the offense should be able to move the football. The line does have speed, but it will need some new players to emerge this year. The same goes for the linebacker’s as well. The secondary does have the most experience and it should be a very good unit in the SEC this year. I predict a 7 wins season for the Tigers.

Mississippi State
Offense
Can the Bulldogs continue to make improvements in the win column this year? There could be a two quart back system in place for the Bulldogs with Tyler Russell who is more of a drop back passer and Chris Relf who is a capable runner as well as passer. The Bulldogs could hand the ball off to four different backs this year including Robert Elliot, Vick Ballard, Montrell Conner and LaDarius Perkins. Derek Sherrod will lead a group of lineman that has all played in the system for a year now. Chad Bumphis will lead the WR’s group this year which is very thin at the position which could mean more balls being thrown in the direction of the tight end this year.
Defense
The line is lead by Pernell McPhee who led the team in sacks last season. Fletcher Cox and Josh Boyd are two very young up and coming tackles and could make some noise this year. Chris White and KJ Wright could form a very good line backing duo. Corey Broomfield and Jonathan Banks had a combined ten picks between them last year and they are looking to improve on that mark this season.
Special Teams
Everyone returns from the kicker/punter to the return men as well.
Conclusion
If the Bulldogs use a two QB system then I think it could be a good thing because the offenses won’t be able to prepare for just one QB. The line should be good and the receivers are ok as long as no one gets injured then there could be cause for concern. The defense is young and talented hopefully it can mature this year for the Bulldogs to make a bowl game. I predict a 6 win season for Mississippi State.

Ole Miss
Offense
The defense should be fine but there is a bit of uncertainty about the offense? It’s Nathan Stanley’s job to lose and he did see time last year in mop up duty. There is going to be a trio of tailbacks looking to carry the load this season for the Rebels and they are Enrique Davis, Rodney Scott and Brandon Bolden. The line has a good mix of juniors and sophomores along it but some of the possible starters haven’t played that much. The wide out’s are ok hopefully Marrakesh Summers and Jesse Grandy can produce for the Rebels this year.
Defense
Kentrell Lockett and Wayne Dorsey are two very fast d-ends and in the middle is Jared Powe. They are deep along the line as well. Jonathan Cornell and Allen Walker will lead a very capable group of linebacker’s but they are young. In the secondary you have corners that are new, but they have enough experience in the system to know what to do on defense. The safeties are occupied by Johnny Brown at one spot and either Fon Ingram or Damien Jackson at the other.
Special Teams
Returner Jesse Grandy is back and so is punter Tyler Campbell who had a very good punt yard average last year. Bryson Rose was very accurate during the spring it’s unknown how he will do during a game situation.
Conclusion
The defense should be one of the better defenses in the league this year. I think with the offense missing so much and not knowing who the QB is going to be or how the wide out’s will do this year I predict a 4 win season for Ole Miss.

SEC East

2010-09-28T15:19:00.001-04:00

South Carolina
Offense
Can this be the year that South Carolina gets to the SEC Championship game? Stephen Garcia needs to have a quicker release with the ball and to improve upon his completion percentage. He will also need to stay on his feet and avoid being sacked. If Garcia does struggle does Spurrier go with Conner Shaw at QB? The line will have to protect the quarterback better and avoid giving up so many sacks. Hoping to give a jolt to the running game is true freshman Marcus Lattimore who was a highly decorated prospect coming out of high school. Kenny Miles will look to improve on his rushing numbers from last season. The gamecocks have weapons at receiver in Tori Gurley and Alshon Jeffery and not to mention a big tight end in Weslye Sanders.
Defense
The defense hopes to find someone who can get after the quarterback? End Cliff Matthews and tackle Ladi Ajiboye could very easily find themselves on an all SEC team. Linebacker Shaq Wilson hopes to be the answer to getting after the QB more this season. Corner Stephon Gilmore has the potential to be one of the best corners in the SEC this season. Chris Culliver is coming off an injury and he is learning the corner spot after playing safety last year. Keep an on Devonte Holloman he could have a breakout season this year at safety.
Special Teams
Spencer Lanning is a very reliable kicker/punter. Stephon Gilmore is a real weapon on punt return. Marty Markett could see some looks at both return spots a well he is a walk-on that can really fly.
Conclusion
I think that if the line can protect Garcia and he can do a better job with his completion percentage then the Gamecock offense should be one of the top offenses in the SEC this season. Hopefully the defense can find someone to get after the QB more and if that question is answered then the defense should be just as good as last seasons. I predict the Gamecocks will win 9 games this season.

Florida
Offense
With so much gone from last season the question becomes who will emerge this season for the Gators? John Brantley takes his turn at QB after Tim Tebow moved on to the NFL. Brantley has a good arm but its unknown how he will due being the main man. The line has experience and is lead by center Mike Pouncey. Running back Jeff Demps can take the ball the distance and Moody is a very hard noised runner who needs to stay healthy this season. A number one receiver still needs to emerge for the Gators this season. Deonte Thompson could be that number one target this season he is the most reliable out of the group. Carl Moore and Andre Debose are both coming off injuries and it will be interesting to see how they do this season.
Defense
The linebackers are not the biggest in the world but they are quick to the ball lead by Jelani Jenkins in the middle. There are a host of players that could fill the outside spots. The line has experience but some true freshmen could see some time along line as well. Janoris Jenkins is a very good corner and the other spot is up for grabs this season.
Special Teams
Chas Henry gets very good hang time on his punts, and Caleb Sturgis has a huge leg he just needs to be more accurate with is kicks. Rainey has a shot at both punt and kick returner this season.
Conclusion
How Brantley will due this year is still unknown at this time and who will emerge as a primary target for the Gators this season. The defense will need some players to step up at linebacker and find another corner opposite Jenkins. I predict the Gators will win 8 games this season.

Georgia
Offense
How will the new QB due this season and how much will the defense improve this season? Aaron Murray is very green as a QB having not taken a snap in the college game yet and its unknown how he will do under the lights. Caleb King and Washaun Ealey from a very good one-two punch at running back. The Bulldogs will need someone else to emerge as another reliable receiver besides A.J, Green. Tavarres King, Rantavios Wooten, and Orson Charles all could have a big year this year. The line is back and they have all started at some point last season.
Defense
The Bulldogs will be switching to a 3-4 and they want to put more heat on the QB this season. Abry Jones and Demarcus Dobbs are two very good ends. Washington and Houston will give the Dawgs good speed off the edge at the outside linebacker. Brandon Boykin is the only player who has started in the secondary for the Bulldogs last season.
Special Teams
Brain Blair and Drew Butler are two very dangerous kicker/punters in the SEC this season.
Conclusion
If Murray can be a manager of the offense then Bulldogs could be a very productive group this year. If the defense could adjust to the new scheme and players can step up then they could improve on this side of the ball. I predict an 8 win season.

Kentucky
Offense
Can the Wildcats continue their run to another bowl under a new coaching staff? QB Mark Hartline has the most experience out of the three quarterbacks, Morgan Newton gives the Wildcats a good mobile QB, and Ryan Mossakowski has a live arm. Randall Cobb is a very good first option to throw too and he can also line up and provide a threat from the wildcat formation. Derrick Locke can get the tough yards or he could use his quick feet to get by a defender as well. Behind Locke is a group of running backs ready to step up. The line only has one player back along the line, but the other players around him have played at some point during the season last year.
Defense
End DeQuin Evans and Ricky Lumpkin have the experience and hope to make the line become more productive this year. Both the middle and outside line backer spots are up for brags this fall. Linebacker Danny Trevathan who led the team in tackles last season and he might need to blitz more this season. Qua Huzzie could get the starting spot at the middle linebacker even though he is undersized. The corners have experience and one corner that could have a big year this year is Randall Burton. Hopefully safety Winston Guy can live up to his potential this season.
Special Teams
Cobb and Locke are two return men that a punter wants to kick away from because they can make things happen with the ball in their hands. Ryan Tydlacka is very reliable punter and true freshmen Joe Mansour was one of the better kickers coming out of high school last year.
Conclusion
If Kentucky can find a QB then the offense should be fine provided the line is able to come together for them. The defense will need players to step up along and the line and hope to find answers in the line backing unit. I predict a 6 win season for the Wildcats this year.

Tennessee
Offense
How long before the Vols can return to top of the SEC? The line will be totally new with all five positions up for grabs. Quarterback’s Matt Simms and Tyler Bray will continue their QB battle into the fall. Running backs Tauren Poole and David Oku are two very reliable backs to have. The wide outs Gerald Jones and Denarius Moore are two very sure handed, reliable, and they both have big play capabilities. Tight end Luke Stocker is a weapon and one of the better tight ends in the SEC.
Defense
Tackle Montori Hughes is a big cog in the middle but the tackle spot isn’t very deep. End Chris Walker who could make the case for All SEC, Gerald Williams, and Ben Martin could all be rotated in at d-end. Linebackers Nick Reveiz and Savion Frazier hope to have bounce back years after both were out with injuries last year. LeMarcus Thompson and Herman Lathers are also two very reliable linebackers. Safetyies Janzen Jackson and Darren Myles Jr. are looking to make some big plays for the defense this season. Art Evans who was out last year due to an injury is very good cover man.
Special Teams
Chad Cunningham is a very dependable punter and Daniel Lincoln hopes to regain his All-American form again. Michael Palardy could put some pressure on both of them during fall camp.
Conclusion
The Vols need to find a QB and hope that they can find the right mix along the line since everyone will be new this year. Whoever the QB is he will have some weapons to throw too. The defense will need players to step up at tackle and linebacker spots this season. I predict a 4 win season for the Vols. It may take them some time to get back to being tops in the SEC again.

Vanderbilt
Offense
Can Vandy rebound from last season’s disappointing season? The commodores have two very good young and productive backs in Zac Stacy and Warren Norman. The line will have a group filled with inexperience and they will have to protect Larry Smith who needs to increase his completion percentage or someone else could be the starting QB. John Cole and Udom Umoh both return but they need to find holes in the defense so the QB can throw the ball to them. This is a spot where some true freshmen may see some time.
Defense
The line looks to be very deep but some of the people that will be starting along the line will be their first time in a starting role. Chris Marve will lead the charge at linebacker, while Casey Hayward and Jamie Graham will look to make a case for All SEC honors this year. Safety Sean Richardson will look to capitalize on his starting performance last season and do a better job in his second year in the system.
Special Teams
Warren Norman has big play ability on kick return’s and kicker Ryan Fowler will look to keep on improving this season after kicking well down the stretch last year.
Conclusion
A lot of things have to go right for the Commodores to have a successful season this year. Can Smith be more accurate with the ball, how will a rebuilt line due this year, and can the wide outs find space for the QB to throw too. The defense looks to be experienced and has players that have been in the system before and know what to do. I predict a 4 wins season for Vanderbilt.

Big East

2010-09-28T15:15:00.002-04:00

Pittsburgh
Offense
Could this be the year the Pitt finally wins its first Big East title in four years? The Pitt offense is lead by running back Dion Lewis who came out of nowhere last year to lead the team in rushing. Receiver Jonathan Baldwin is very tall and because of his height being a factor he could be faced with lots of double teams? Another very tall wide out is Mike Shanahan he is another very good target for the QB to throw to. Quarterback Tino Sunseri will take over the reins this year and he is unproven at the position even though he is a just a sophomore. The line will need to fill the holes left at both guard spots and at center as well.
Defense
Ends Greg Romeus and Jabaal Sheard love to put pressure on the quarterback. The line backing unit is lead by a thumper in Dan Mason at the middle line backing spot. The corners are upperclassmen, but this will be there first year as starters though. Both starting safeties are back and keep an eye on Jarred Holley who can make plays for the defense.
Special Teams
Dan Hutchins is a very reliable kicker/punter and so is Cameron Saddler.
Conclusion
I think the PITT offense should be one of the top offenses in the Big East provided they can find replacements along the line and hope the Sunseri can have a good year at quarterback. The defense should also be tops in the Big East as long as the corners can step up and get used to being the starters on d. I predict that PITT will win 10 games this year.

Connecticut
Offense
Can UCONN take the next step and finally win the Big East? Zach Frazer and Cody Endres are two very capable quarterbacks and they both know the offense. Jordan Todman will be getting the bulk of the carries this season. The o-line looks to be the strength of the team this season with four upperclassmen back and experienced. UCONN has a very good group of receivers lead by Kashif Moore. Dwayne Difton could really turn some heads this season and be another option at receiver for the Huskies. Defense
The line backers and line look to lead the defense. One corner spot and a safety spot are both up for grabs this season. Some players might have to get used to playing different positions this season?
Special Teams
Dave Teggart needs to be more reliable kicker and UCONN is breaking in a punter this season. The punt return team will have a new returner. The kick return team has three different people that it can plug in and either one of them can take a kickoff the distance.
Conclusion
The offense is loaded with experience across the board. The Huskies will run the ball early and often this season. The defense has to hope a corner and safety can be found and the rest of the defense should be fine. I predict that the Huskies will win 8 games this season.

Rutgers
Offense
Can the Scarlet Knights continue their bowl steak this season? Quarterback Tom Savage hopes to improve on his numbers from last season and he now has a year of experience under his belt so his stats should increase. Mohamed Sanu seems to be the number one target of Savage and he will look to play better this season. Rutgers will need another receiver to step up to help out Sanu and that job could fall to Mark Harrison. The line will need to fill the holes left at both tackle spots and at the right guard position. The running game will also need a boost this season after struggling a little bit the past few years so don’t be surprised if you see Casey Turner and Jawan Jamison get some reps at tailback this season as true freshmen.
Defense
The d-line has some stars on it with Scott Vallone, Alex Silvestro, and Jonathan Freeny as the starters and there’s good depth behind them as well. The line backing unit is lead by Steve Beauharnais who made a ton of plays for the Scarlet Knights last season at outside linebacker. Now he is now making the switch to the inside line backing position. Antonio Lowery who played as a role player last season is now making the move to starter. The corners and safety spots are very deep. Brandon Bing and David Rowe should be the starters but a host of redshirt freshmen could see some time as well.
Special Teams
San San Te will look to have a bounce back year after having an ok year the past two seasons. Teddy Dellaganna should be one of the top punters in the Big East this season.
Conclusion
If the o-line can come together and if the running game can make improvements this season then the offense should do very well this year. The defense has a good mix of youth and experience and hopefully they can come together as the season goes on. I predict that Knights should win 8 games this season.

West Virginia
Offense
Can the Mountaineers content for a Big East crown? Geno Smith looks to be the man for the Mountaineers at QB, it will be interesting to see how he does as the starter this season after being the back up last season. There is a trio of receivers that Smith can throw to Jock Sanders in the slot, Bradley Starks as the speedster, and the electrifying Tavon Austin. There is a concern that after this group they are not very deep. Noel Devine will look to shoulder the load for team again this season. They also have a big bruising back in Ryan Clarke. The line has four starters back with experience.
Defense
The safeties are two of the better ones in the Big East in Robert Sands and Sidney Glover, but behind it seem to be a group of unknowns as this point. The corners are solid with Keith Tandy and Brandon Hogan. The d-line which consists of Scooter Berry and Chris Neild at tackle, end Julian Miller off the edge can be one of the best d-line unit’s in the Big East. J.T. Thomas and Pat Lazear look to lead the line backing crew this season.
Special Teams
West Virginia is looking for a new punter, but they do have a very strong legged kicker in Tyler Bitancurt. Pick your poison when it comes to the return game because the Mountaineers have a very dangerous group in Hogan and Sanders on punts, and Sanders, Devine, and Austin on kickoffs.
Conclusion
I think West Virginia has too many questions on offense and defense concerning a lack of depth at key positions. There is an unknown at QB, a thin receiving core, and safety. I predict that West Virginia will win 7 games this season.

Cincinnati
Offense
Can this team continue its success that it has had the previous two seasons under a new coach and scheme? Zach Collaros does have game experience after having playing in four games last year. Running back Isaiah Pead will look to improve on his rushing numbers from last season. The Bearcats are stacked at the wide out position with D.J. Woods and Armon Binns. Hopefully Vidal Hazelton can be a number one receiving target for the Bearcats this season. Ben Guidugh is a very good pass catching tight end for the Bearcats. The line has three starters returning.
Defense
The Bearcats need to get after the quarterback more this season and Walter Stewart could be the solution to the problem at end/linebacker. D-linemen Derek Wofle, linebacker JK Schaffer and strong safety Drew Frey all could make the case for all conference honors this season. Keep an eye on Dan Giordano who could have a breakout season at defensive end for the Bearcats.
Special Teams
The Bearcats must find a new kick returner and that job could go to Darrin Williams and Hazelton. Kicker Jack Rodgers is a very serviceable placekicker.
Conclusion
The offense shouldn’t miss a beat this season even with a new coach at the helm. The quarterback has experience, the leading rusher is back, and they have a good group of weapons to throw too. The defense might be the one question mark because of the switch to a 4-3 defense instead of the 3-4 that was used last year. Players will have to step up at every position for Cinny to make a case for a bowl game this season. I predict he team should win 7 games this season.

South Florida
Offense
Can Holtz reach a bowl in his first season as Bulls head man? B.J. Daniels played pretty well last year, now he just needs to work on his accuracy more. Moise Plancher is back and ready to lead the rushing attack for the Bulls this season. The line returns with experience on its side and it’s filled with upperclassmen as well. The wide outs are lead by Dontavia Bogan. It’s unknown at this time when A.J. Love who was one of the Bulls better receivers last year, will be back with the team after getting injured during the spring. Lindsey Lamar could be a deep threat for the Bulls this season after making the switch from running back.
Defense
Tackle Terrell McClain and end Craig Marshall should have two very good senior seasons this year. The linebackers have experience and they are very fast as well. Corners Quenton Washington and Kayvon Webster could be a very formidable cornerback tandem to throw against in the Big East.
Special Teams
Eric Schwartz is a very reliable kicker for the Bulls, but he could get some competition from former Bulls kicker Maikon Bonani who was out last year due to an injury. They do need to find a punter this season.
Conclusion
If Daniels can improve upon last year’s performance the offense should be in good shape with the o-line returning everyone and a ton of targets to throw too. The defense has a very good secondary and linebackers, the question mark will be if they can find some players to step up along the line and produce for them this season. I predict the Bulls will win 6 games this year.

Syracuse
Offense
Can Syracuse continue to make improvements this season? The Orange is looking to pass more this season and it remains to be seen who will be throwing those passes? Ryan Nassib might have the job for now due to his arm, but the coach could go with a number of different options like Johnny Miller, Charley Loeb, or John Kinder. Delone Carter gets the bulk of the carries again this season, and the line will continue to make strides as well. The wide outs need more depth and more players as well this season they do have a good receiver in Alec Lemon to throw to, but other WR’s must step up and help out. The Orange will look to incorporate the fullback more into the offense this year.
Defense
The Orange are led by two linebacker’s Darrell Smith and Doug Hogue who have a noise for the football and they could make the case for all Big East honor’s this season. The d-line is ok but it’s lacking in numbers and they hope that Chandler Jones can make in impact for them this season since he is now a junior. The corners and safety positions are occupied by upperclassmen, but the concern is trying to find two very good shutdown corners?
Special Teams
Syracuse could have one of the better kicker/punter combinations this year. Kicker Ryan Lichtenstein is a very reliable kicker and Rob Long has a very powerful leg. The Orange will continue to show improvement in the return game and on the coverage units as well.
Conclusion
I think the offense still has to figure out who the QB is going to be for this team and hope that the receivers can make contributions to the team this season. The defense should be fine against the run; the problem is going to be if they can stop giving up the long pass for the touchdown. I predict the Orange will win 4 games this season.

Louisville
Offense
How long will it take for the Cardinals to return to the top of the Big East? Louisville must first find a QB to run the spread, either Adam Forman, Will Stein, or Dominique Brown. Both Doug Beaumont and Josh Chester need to be more consistent at receivers and this may also be a spot where some true freshmen maybe able to step in and help out right away. The tailback spot could be done by committee with Victor Anderson, Darius Ashley, and Bilal Powell all looking to carry the load this season for the Cardinal. Even though the line returns four starters everyone’s job could be up for grabs due to a low number of points being scored and an increased number of sacks pilling up.
Defense
There is work to be done on this side of the ball. The linebackers are experienced and have played before. Gregg Scruggs is a very good d-lineman and while ends William Savoy and Malcolm Tatum are quick they will need to put on some more weight. The corners and safety spots might need some freshmen to come in and play right away.
Special Teams
Chris Philpott will look to make the kicking game better after the team seemed to struggle in that department the last couple of years. New return men must be found and the punting unit will also look to improve this year.
Conclusion
I think it will take time for strong to get his players in place and run his system, but for now they will need a QB to emerge, receivers to show progress, and a defense that will take time to gel. I think the Cardinals will win 3 games this season.

Big 12 South

2010-09-28T15:02:00.001-04:00

Oklahoma
Offense
Can OU get back to the Big 12 championship game? Quarterback Landry Jones did pretty good last year considering he was thrown into the fire earlier then expected. He will have to show even more improvement this upcoming season. The line will also need to show marked improvement this season as well. Running Back DeMarco Murray when healthy can do it all he can run the ball, return kicks, and be a receiver out of the backfield. Ryan Broyles is a very good first option receiver to have, but the problem is who else can the quarterback rely on outside of Broyles?
Defense
There is a still lot of top end talent on this side of the ball, but there is an unknown factor with the talent as well? End Jeremy Beal and linebacker Travis Lewis could both make a case for Big 12 player of the year honors. Tackle Adrian Taylor, end Frank Alexander and free safety Quinton Carter could be all-conference performer’s this season?
Special Teams
OU has one of the better punters in the country in Tress Way and a very dangerous returner in Broyles. Who will be doing the kicking duties for OU remains to be seen since they struggled in this department last year?
Conclusion
The offense has to hope the line can come together and Murray can stay healthy for an entire season. The receiving core must be more productive this season; players must step up in order for the quarterback to show improvement. The defense will need some of its less experienced players to step up and contribute for them this season so that they could have continued success this year. I predict OU will have a 9 to 10 win season this year.

Texas
Offense
The defense should be just as good as last season, but what about the offense? From everything that I have read it seems that Texas is making the transition back to a power running game with some play action thrown in for good measure. Garrett Gilbert should improve after being thrown into the fire during the National Championship game. There is experience back along the line, receiver which is headlined by Malcolm Williams, and a very good group of running backs headlined by Tre’ Newton
Defense
The Longhorn’s defense should be fine because they just keep on reloading with players who have been in the system already. They get back Sam Acho who led the team in sacks last year and also returning is Blake Gideon who led the team in picks last year. Linebacker Dravannti Johnson could have a real breakout year this year after looking really good in the spring. The secondary looks to be the strength of the d this year led by two very good corner’s Curtis Brown and Aaron Williams.
Special Teams
Marquise Goodwin and D.J. Monroe are two very explosive kick return men they each took a kickoff for a touchdown last year. The new kicker Justin Tucker will be kicking for the first time this season and he is a junior.
Conclusion
The defense should be just as good as it was last year, but the offense might need some time to get used to the new scheme this season and it shouldn’t have any problem adjusting to the new offense as the season goes along. Texas does have a rigorous non-conference schedule to navigate through with Texas Tech. UCLA, Oklahoma, and Nebraska all within a four week span. I predict that Texas will win 8 games this season.

Texas A&M
Offense
Can A&M be a serious contender in the South? Quarterback Jerrod Johnson has the potential to be an all-conference player this season he certainly has the help around him to make that happen. Christine Michael A&M’s leading rusher and back up Cyrus Gray both return to carry the load for A&M again this season. A&M’s trio of receiver’s are led by Jeff Fuller who could make a case for All-American honors this season and he will get help from Brandal Jackson, Uzoma Nwachukwu and Hutson Prioleau who will look to provide a target at tight end. The line will be relying on youth and inexperience this season.
Defense
The leader of the defense is Von Miller who was the top sack artist last year. The line doesn’t have that imposing force on it but all A&M needs is for the defense to be reliable. Michael Hodge and Garrick Williams will look to improve on a very productive spring. The secondary will look to play even better this season and keep on showing improvement in this area.
Special Teams
Randy Bullock is very reliable kicker. Gray and Swope are men that you want to kick away from if you can because they can hurt you in the kick return game. The punting, punt return, and kickoff teams need to improve this season.
Conclusion
The Aggies offense can be awfully good this season provided a very young line can mature. The defense will need improvement from every part from the d-line, linebackers, and in the secondary as well. I predict that A&M will win 7 games this season.

Texas Tech
Offense
With a new coach can the spread still be successful? Both Steven Sheffield and Tyler Potts are coming back from injury, but Sheffield seems to be the starter for now. Tech could have a nice one-two punch in Baron Batch and Eric Stephens. Tech always has a loaded group of receivers and this season is no different they will be guided by Alexis Torres and Detron Lewis. Replacements will need to found along the right side of the line and also get used to a whole new blocking scheme.
Defense
A new 3-4 defense will look to assert itself even more this upcoming year. Lots of guys are moving around in the defense and Tech is looking to put more pressure on the QB. The corners and safeties look to be the most reliable unit on team this season.
Special Teams
Both the kicker and punter will look to continue where they left off last year. Eric Stephens is a reliable return man.
Conclusion
Whoever wins the quarterback battle this season has to hope that the line can adjust to the new scheme quickly? The defense will also have to adjust and hopefully they can find some answers for a pass rush. I predict that Tech will win 5 games this year.

Baylor
Offense
Can this be the year that Baylor finally ends its bowl drought? Quarterback Robert Griffin is coming off an injury and he hopes to regain his freshman form again. The line welcomes back Danny Watkins and Philip Blake, who is now at center after playing right tackle last season. Jay Finley is back at running back after being injured last season. The Bear’s have a bevy of receiver’s to throw to; Kendall Wright in the slot, Lanear Sampson, Josh Gordon, Terrance Williams and at tight end is Brad Taylor.
Defense
The line will need some work and hopefully Phil Taylor can finally live up to all of the hype that came with him from Penn State? The linebackers will be a solid unit and leading the group is Antonio Johnson. The corners will be rotated in on defense. The safety spots should go to Tim Atchison who played corner last season and either Byron Landor a senior or true freshman Prince Kent.
Special Teams
Derek Epperson could make the case for the Ray Guy Award this season and Aaron Jones will be in charge of the kicking duties.
Conclusion
If Griffin can stay healthy he should be able to make an All-Big 12 team. Jay Finley will need to stay healthy as well so the Bear’s can have a ground game this season. The line will need to step up and play better and the secondary will need to find answers as well. I predict a 4 win season for the Bears.

Oklahoma State
Offense
How good will the Cowboys be with so much talent lost on offense? Brandon Weeden will be in a new offensive system this season, but he does have a good arm for the new spread offense. Kendall Hunter will look to have the type of year like the one he had as a sophomore. The line looks to be unproven and untested, while the wide outs look to gain even more experience this season. The concern is that the receiver’s are lacking depth.
Defense
One of OSU”s upperclassmen Orie Lemon is coming off of an injury last year and he is only one of three players back on d. Big things are expected out of Markelle Martin at safety this season. A weakness is at tackle where more help will be needed. Other question marks that appear in defense are at the corner and outside linebacker spots.
Special Teams
Dan Bailey and Quinn Sharp are two very good kicker and punter combinations in the Big 12. Both the return jobs are open and Justin Gilbert could win them both.
Conclusion
I think OSU has too many questions on offense and the defense is still a work in progress. That is why I predict a 3 win season for OSU.

Big 12 North

2010-06-05T17:04:00.018-04:00

Nebraska
Offense
Can the Huskers get back to the Big 12 championship game again this season? Even though Zack Lee was good last year he is coming back from an injury and will have to hold off Cody Green who is a sophomore and a redshirt freshmen Taylor Martinez for his starting quarterback job. Both Roy Helu Jr. and Rex Burkhead will look to have a bounce back year after being injured last year and they will try to improve the run game. Niles Paul and Mike McNeil will look to lead the receiving group this year. The line will need the right mix of players for it to do well this season.
Defense
Almost everyone returns on this side of the ball for the Huskers. The defensive line is lead by Pierre Allen at defensive end and Jarrod Crick at defensive tackle. The linebackers are deep and talented, along with the corners. The safety spots will have some new faces there but they have been in the system already and should be ready to play this season. Eric Nagg is versatile enough to play either the run or the pass from his nickel spot.
Special Teams
Alex Henery is a very good punter and a very reliable kicker as well.
Conclusion
The Huskers should be able to get back to the Big 12 championship game as long as they can find a quarterback and hope that the running backs can stay healthy the entire season. I don't know if the D can be as good as it was last season, but it won't be bad either. I predict that the Huskers will win 10 games this season

Missouri
Offense
Can the Tigers be just as good this season as they were last season? QB Blaine Gabbert will look to improve on a very successful first year at the helm. If something were to happen to Gabbert then you are looking at a group of quarterbacks who are unproven. The backfield will consist of Derrick Washington who will start, but he will have to split carries with De'Vion Moore and Kendial Lawrence. A new group of receiver's must emerge and the Tigers could rely on the tight end more this season. An experienced line returns to protect the quarterback.
Defense
Aldon Smith is back after leading the team in sacks last year and he leads an experienced line, but depth could be a problem along the line. There is an abundance of talent coming back at the linebacker spot with three upperclassmen returning. The corner backs and safeties will look to have a better season this year then last year and they hope to have more picks this year.
Special Teams
Kicker Grant Ressel hopes to continue his consistent kicking this year just like he did the year before. A new punter must be found though. Both of the returners are back, but they hope to do a better job this season as apposed to last season.
Conclusion
If Gabbert can stay healthy for the entire season I think the Missouri offense should doe well this year as long as they can find some receivers to throw to. The linebacker's look to be the teams strength this season as long as the secondary can make an improvement this year and they can find some depth long the d-line then I predict that the Tigers should win 9 games this year.

Colorado
Offense
Can CU return to a bowl this season? The play of the QB will be key for CU this year. If Hanson is the starter then he will give CU a QB who can scramble and make plays if he has too. In Hawkins you have a very good manager of the offense. At the running back position you have two experienced backs in Rodney Stewart and Brian Lockridge who are both very quick backs, but they will need help from some true freshmen this season as well. Look for Tony Jones who is a running back out of New Jersey who was the NJ Gatorade Player of the year and he could be a good change of pace back this year for CU. If CU needs to gain the short yardage they could look to another true freshmen in Cordary Clark who is a big bruising back. The line does have every one back, but it will need to show improve this season. The receivers are deep and are lead by Scotty McKnight who is a very sure handed wideout and Tony Clemons who from all accounts seems like a very big physical receiver. The question for CU who will be the third option for them this year now that Simas future is possibly in doubt? I would say for the third option to look for either Kyle Cefalo who had very good spring, Will Jefferson, Kendrick Celistine who could give the Buffs a deep threat down field, or the Buffs can look to their tight ends and throw to Ryan Deehan who I think and have a really big year this year or another weapon to go to is redshirt freshmen Devaughn Thorton who also looked good in the spring as well.
Defense
CU has possibly one of the better cornerback duos in the Big 12 in Jimmy Smith and Jalil Brown. Hopefully some of the younger guys can step up at the corner spots for depth purposes. The safeties aren't bad either Ray Polk gained a year of experience after making the switch from running back last season and Anthony Perkins is back after leading the team in tackles last year. Keep an eye on Parker Orms who should step in at the Nickleback stop this year. He had a very good spring and it will be interesting to see how he does during the season since he is only a redshirt freshmen. The line will look to improve this season as it welcomes everyone back. The linebackers will need players to step up and produce for them this season. Some of the players that were role players last season are now starters and they should do well this year in that role.
Special Teams
Both Aric Goodmen and new punter Zack Grossnickle need to be more reliable in the kicking game. They could get some competition come August camp in the form of Justin Castor who can punt and kick as well. Another important position is the long snapper and that job could go to Joe Silipo.
Conclusion
I think CU has a shot at a bowl game this year as long as they can find a third option at wideout, decide on who the QB will be, and hope that the line can really be a force for them this up coming season. Hopefully the special teams can make some strides this season as well. The defense should be good considering that almost all of it returns this year and they all gained experience last year. I predict that CU will have 7 to 8 wins this season and make it to a bowl game.

Kansas
Offense
Can KU return to a bowl under new coach Turner Gill? Sophmore Kale Pick and redshirt freshman Jordan Webb will battle it out to see who will become the new QB for the team this year now that Todd Reesing has moved on. The entire line returns in tact, but they will need to improve on the running game and to cut down on the sack total from last season. The wideout's are experience and are lead by the trio of Bradley McDougald, Johnathan Wilson and the amazing athleticism of Daymond Patterson. Angus Quigley and Toben Opurum are two bulls who will be splitting the carries at running back this season.
Defense
The corner and safety spots are loaded with talent and one person who could lock up one of those spots is Chris Harris. Everyone else will be fighting for the other corner spot as well as the open safety slots as well. The d-end's are experienced and should be a very capable group lead by Jake Laptad, Quintin Woods, and Kevin Young. The tackle spots could be the one kink in the defensive lines armor this year. Linebacker's Justin Springer and Steven Johson will look to lead by example this season as they will have a very young and untested group of linebackers behind them.
Special Teams
Kicker Jacob Branstetter will look to be more consistent this season and punter Alonso Rojas has a very strong leg and he can punt the ball for more than 50 yards.
Conclusion
I think whoever comes out of the quarterback battle can only improve as the season goes on. The running backs are tough and the receivers are experienced. The defense will be young in certain spots this year, but it should be OK to get the team to a bowl game. I think that KU will get 6 wins this year.

Kansas State
Offense
Will K-State get enough wins to make it to a bowl game this year? The position's of strength for this team are along the offensive line and at the running back spot. The offensive line is loaded with upperclassmen and the Wildcats have a very good hard noise runner in Daniel Thomas. A quarterback battle will continue into August camp and fighting to be the starting QB are Carson Coffman, Collin Klein, and Sammuel Lamur. The wideouts are filled with upside and potential as well. Aubrey Quarles is a senior, Brodrick Smith and Chris Harper who both played last year at Minnesota and Oregon respectively could both fit a need at receiver position this year.
Defense
Tysyn Hartman and Emmanuel Lamur could be two of the better Big 12 safety tandem's in the league this year. One of the corner spots looks to be open, while the other one could be locked down by Stephen Harrison. The line looks to be anchored by end Brandon Harold who will try to come back from an injury and Adam Davis could fill a need at the other d-end spot. The linebacker's are an untested unit.
Special Teams
The return teams will need to find some new people for the job this year now that Brandon Banks has moved on. A new punter must be broken in and Josh Cherry will look to be Mr. Consistent this year at kicker.
Conclusion
I think that there might be too many questions to be answered on both sides of the ball, so I think K-State will get 5 wins this year.

Iowa State
Offense
Can the offense carry the team for the entire season? QB Austin Arnaud and running back Alexander Robinson will look to play even better this season. The line will look to continue where it left off last season. Behind Robinson looks to be a group of untested backs. Shontrelle Johnson could make a case to be Robinson's backup this season and he is only a true freshmen. The Cyclones are stacked at the receiver position but it will need to play better this season and try to stay injury free.
Defense
The line will have to find some sort of chemistry this year. The line has one player Rashawn Parker who is coming off an injury and Jake McDonough who will need to gain some experience this season. The linebackers look to be very young this year and they are lead by two sophomores in Jake Knott and A.J. Klein and a junior in Matt Tau'fo'ou who is a transfer this year. The safety spots look to be the strength of the defense this season as they are lead by David Sims and Michael O' Connell. Lenoard Johnson also returns at his corner spot.
Special Teams
Everything will need to be improved from the kicking to the return game, and it doesn't help that they are relying on a true freshmen for punts this year as well.
Conclusion
I think the offense will need another back to help out Robinson and hopefully they can stay injury free and keep on showing improvement this year. The defense looks good in the secondary, its the other parts that look to be in question and it could be a long year if they can't find the necessary people to step up at the d-line and at linebacker. I predict that due to the unknowns at key positions they will win 3 games this season.

Expansion

2010-06-05T13:49:00.008-04:00

So here is my take on a very hot topic right now. Apparently location doesn't matter to the big six conferences right now. I think Texas holds all the cards right now and they could do what ever they want because of how much money that they make. I find it interesting that Texas Tech gets a possible invite to the Pac 10 because I'm not really sure what they see in them? I really like the move to the Pac 10 for Colorado due to its fan base being mostly from CA and most people consider CU more of a western school anyways.

Do any of the Oklahoma schools decide to the join the SEC along with A&M? That to me would be a very interesting thought because you would have some very interesting games with OU and Florida, Oke state and LSU and an old SWC rivalry renewed in A&M and Arkansas on a possible yearly basis?

If Boisie makes the jump to the Mountain West then I think that will only help the conference even more because now you have a very interesting race for first with TCU, BYU and UTAH all battling it out for the top spot.

It's still unknown what the Big 10 is going to do. I do think that the Missouri Tigers would go if offered and they would be a good fit for the Big 10 given their location in the St. Louis area. Another possible team on the move to the Big 10 is Rutgers who have had its troubles in years past but have looked good the past few year and would bring in a key market for the Big 10 in NY/NJ area. I like either one or both of these moves because more people can have an opportunity to see the big ten in their respective area.

The conferences that could be in trouble are the WAC and the Big 12. If Boise leaves the WAC then who could they possibly bring in? Would they just stay where its at or do they join up with another conference? What becomes of the rest of the schools in the big 12 the Kansas, Baylor's, Iowa States, and Nebraska if they don't go to the Big Ten as well I think that the rest of the Big 12 should form a super conference with the Mountain West schools and the rest of the WAC schools as well.

If Rutgers does leave the Big East they should look at Temple due to the location of the school, or they could go after a C-USA school and take a look at Marshall, or the school that I find to be interesting is UCF I the Big East likes them due to it being one of the largest colleges in Florida.
If a C-USA school does leave then they should make a run at LA Tech because they could play teams that are closer to their region like a Rice, SMU, Tulane, etc... They could cut down on travel costs and wouldn't have to worry about flying to CA or Hawaii for a game year in and year out.

This should be an exciting summer so lets see what happens with all this conference talk.

Big Ten

2010-06-03T11:32:00.041-04:00

Ohio State
Offense
Can the Buckeyes take the next step to the National Championship game? Ohio State does have a very dangerous weapon in QB Terrel Pryor who can beat teams with his arm and legs as well. The receiver's are experienced with DeVier Posey, and Dane Sanzbacher, plus they have another receiver in tight end Jake Stoneburner. Brandon Saine and Daniel Herron look to continue to eat up even more yardage this season. The line will look to continue its dominance up front, but it does need to get better against pass-rushers coming off the edge.
Defense
OSU has players ready to step up and play this season. The front line will need it's role players from last year to step up and contribute more on this side of the ball in order to take some pressure off of the veterans on the line. The linebackers return two key pieces in Ross Horman and Brian Rolle and at the corners are two very capable players in Chimdi Chekwa and Devon Torrence. Jermale Hines is a very good safety.
Special Teams
OSU will look to find a new kicker, return men and to improve on its punting as well.
Conclusion
The Buckeyes have the pieces in place to make a real run at the national title,as long as Pryor can try not to run so much and improve on his passing from last season. The defense will need the d-line to come together because the rest of the d looks to be in good shape. Hopefully OSU can find its answers on special teams. If every thing can come together for them I predict an 11 to 12 win season.

Wisconsin
Offense
Can the Badgers challenge for the Big Ten Crown? Scott Tolzien is a very good manager of the Badgers offense. He will be able to spread the ball around this year with Nick Toon, Issac Anderson, Kyle Jefferson, and David Gilreath, all back at wide out this year. Also not to mention Lance Kendricks is back at tight end as well. If that wasn't enough, also back is the running back trio of John Clay, Montee Ball, and Zach Brown. The line has a good mix of players who saw time last year and will look to be a force again this year as well.
Defense
The d-line will need some of its younger players to step up and make an impact this year. Keep an eye on DE J.J. Watt, he could have a real breakout year this year. The Badgers hope that LB's Mike Taylor and Chris Broland can return to form after having surgery. The corners must improve and a free safety must be found.
Special Teams
The return teams must do a better job this year then is years past. Wisconsin should have one of the better kicker and punter tandems in the league.
Conclusion
I think Wisconsin should have one of the better offenses in the Big Ten this season. If they can fix the secondary and get some help along the d-line then the defense should be set. I predict that Wisconsin should get 10 wins this year.

Iowa
Offense
Can Iowa make its case for a Big Ten crown? Quarterback Ricky Stanzi has the experience of being in the offense and knowing the system well enough, but he just needs to cut down on his picks. The Hawkeyes have three very capable backs (Adam Robinson, Brandon Wegher, and Jewl Hampton) who have all had playing time at some point in their careers. The receiving core is back and it's headlined by Derrell Johson-Koulianos. The line will need some work along the whole right side, including the center position.
Defense
The d-line is back and loaded with upperclassmen. Keep an eye on Adrian Clayborn the man was all over the field last year causing opposing teams headaches. The line backing unit only has one player back from last years squad so the other positions are up for grabs this year. The corner backs and safeties will be good this year due to having everyone back.
Special Teams
Johson-Koulianos is very dangerous with the ball in his hands on special teams. The kicking and punting aspect of Iowa's game is in good hands with Ryan Donahue (punts) and Daniel Murray (kicks).
Conclusion
Iowa's special teams should be very good this year. As long as the offense can find capable replacements along the line and Stanzi can increase his touchdown to interception ratio then I predict that Iowa should get 9 to 10 wins this year.

Penn State
Offense
There looks to be more questions on offense then on defense for Penn State this year. The two main questions being who is going to play QB for them this year will it be Kevin Newsome, Matt McGloin, or one of the two true freshman that Penn State has coming in? The line does have a good mix of experience and youth on its side. Now the question becomes who will the five guys be that will fill the starting lineup for them come Saturday. PSU does have a good back in Evan Royster and a solid group of receivers headlined by Derek Moye.
Defense
The veteran of the line is Ollie Ogbu and he has some pretty good talent around him in Jack Crawford and Eric Latimore. Some of the reserves last year that saw time on d will now become fixtures at linebacker this time around. Like Nate Stupar, Bani Gbadyu and coming back from injury last year is Michael Mauti. The corners and safeties should be in good hands with D'Anton Lynn (CB) and Drew Astorino (SS) who is coming back from an injury. The player to keep an eye on is Derrick Thomas, he could get some time this fall at corner
Special Teams
The kicking game needs to be better this year along with improvement from the return and coverage teams as well.
Conclusion
The defense should be OK this year and may have to carry PSU a little until they can find the right offensive line and find an answer at quarterback as well. I predict that Penn State will have a 8 to 9 wins season this year.

Michigan State
Offense
Can the Spartans continue their bowl streak? Kirk Cousins is back to command the Spartan offense and he will look to capitalize on his TD to int ratio from last season. The running game will have Larry Caper and Edwin Baker back to form a very good duo. MSU possesses a very good tight end duo in Charlie Gantt and Brian Linthicum. The WRs will be lead by the very fast Keshawn Martin, equally as fast is Mark Dell and the always hard to bring down B.J. Cunningham.There are holes that need to be filled along the right side of the line for Michigan State.
Defense MSU needs to do a better job rushing the passer this year then in years past. The d-line is good on the inside, but the questions marks are at d-end where players need to be found. The Spartan backers are lead by Greg Jones who was all over the field last year. Corner spots are solid with Chris L. Rucker and Johnny Adams being the headlines of the group. The safeties will need to show improvment.
Special Teams
A new kicker must be found and Aron Bates is a serviceable punter to have. Keshawn Martin is a very shifty return man.
Conclusion
If both Cousins and the line can improve then the offense is in good shape. If they can get a pass rush and find some d-ends then this team should continue their bowl steak. I predict that the Spartans should get 7 wins this year.

Northwestern
Offense
Can the Wildcats keep the momentum going with another bowl run? Dan Persa is now the man at the QB and hopes to have just as much success as has predecessor Mike Kafka did. Northwestern has a bevy of backs that they can pick from including Stephen Simmons, Jacob Schmidt, Scott Concannon, and Arby Fields who could see the bulk of the carries this season. The line has depth across the board and it will need to due a better job this season run blocking. Justin Ebert a receiver and Drake Dunsmore a tight end will be the favorite targets of Persa this upcoming season.
Defense
The linebackers will be the key to Northwestern's success this season. They are lead by Quentin Davie and Nate Williams and their is depth behind these two players as well. The line is good at the defensive tackle spots, but they will need some more help from players at the end positions. Depth could be a problem at the corner and safety spots this year.
Special Teams
Kicker Stefan Demos hopes to redeem himself this season after now kicking so well in the bowl game. The punting duties could be handled by either Brandon Willliams or Jeff Budzien. Simmons is a good bet for returns as long as he can stay injury free. Keep an eye on true freshman Venric Mark from Texas, he could be the solution at returner if something should happen to Simmons this season.
Conclusion
If Northwestern can find some more receiving help and hope that Persa can have a good year this year behind center then the offense will be just fine. The linebackers will lead the charge for the defense, but it might be a rough year due to a lack of depth in the secondary, I feel that Northwestern can make a bowl with a 6 win season.

Purdue
Offense
Can Purdue improve on its win total from last year? There is a new sheriff in town and his name if Robert Marve who brings a new dimension to the offense this season, that being his legs. If healthy, Ralph Bolden can be one of the better backs in the Big Ten this year, if not then either Al-Terek McBurse a sophomore or Keith Carlos a senor neither of whom have experience being the starting tailback. Keith Smith was a good option last year at receiver, but they will need someone else step up this season and that job could fall to a couple of people either Gary Bush or Cortez Smith. The line will need to find replacements at center, left guard, and right tackle this year.
Defense
The d-line and linebackers must make plays in order to protect a very young secondary. Ryan Kerrington is quick off the ball and can muscle his way past defenders from his end position. Kawann Short is just as good as Kerrington but he also has a good amount of weight to carry with him too. The linebacker's will get after people and are lead by Jason Werner, Dwayne Beckford, and Joe Holland. The secondary is young and unproven and it only has one person back from last years team, that being Safety Albert Evans.
Special Teams
Carson Wiggs has a monster leg and he can hit from beyond 40 yards and out. Everything else is unknown as this point.
Conclusion
The line and secondary must come together and another running back must be found if Bolden can't stay healthy the entire year. I think they will get 5 wins this year.

Michigan
Offense
Can Michigan make its first bowl under Rich Rodriguez? The QB spot looks to be a wide open with Tate Forcier, Denard Robinson and Devin Gardner who is a true freshman this year. Michigan will need more production out of its running game this year. Roy Roundtree was a good target last year, but he can't do it alone. Look for Martavious Odoms to take some pressure off of Roundtreee and give the QB another target to throw too. The line should be able to help ease whoever the QB is behind center due to it experience that they have coming back.
Defense
The Wolverine's will be using a 3-3-5 defense this year and it might have to rely on true freshmen this season at corner due to a lack of depth. The line is talented and it has very good depth as well lead by d-tackle Mike Martin who could be force for the Wolverines this year. Also boasting lots of talent is at the linebacker position lead by Obi Ezeh and Joans Mouton. Special Teams
A new kicker and punter will need to be found and both jobs could fall to freshmen and one of those being a true freshmen.
Conclusion
I think Michigan can struggle this year because of the unknown at QB, running back and hoping that another receiver can be forund form them this season. With a new defense it make take them a while to adjust to it and the special teams are relying on freshmen to produce for them as well. I predict that Michigan will get 5-6 wins this year.

Indiana
Offense
With the offense scoring points can the defense catch up to the offense? Ben Chappell can throw the ball around and rack up the yardage, but he must do a better job of throwing more TD passes then picks this year. The Hoosiers have two very good and experienced receiver's in Damarlo Belcher and Tandon Doss who were top targets of Chappell this past year. The running game will need to show progress this season in order to keep defenses honest and that job could fall to Darius Willis. The line has experience back and it will look for improvement this season lead by Justin Pagan and Will Matte.
Defense
The line has a mix of juniors and sophomores this season and it hopes to get after the quarterback this year. Two sophomore's Larry Black Jr. and Adam Repogie will need to stuff the run, while Kevin Bush could be the answer at pass rusher. The linebacker's are deep and talented and should only improve on last years stats. The possible problem for the Hoosiers is going to be at the corner and safety spots. They may need to rely on JC transfers his year and some possible true freshmen as well.
Special Teams
Kicker Nick Freeland will look to be a bit more consistent in the kicking game this year. Doss will be doing double duty as a kick and punt returner.
Conclusion
If the running game can improve then I think Hoosiers could have a successful offense this year. The defense will need to answer some questions in the secondary but up front they should be OK. I think that the Hoosiers could have a 5 win season this year.

Illinois
Offense
Can the Fighting Illini improve its record from last year of 3 wins? From what I have read it looks like Nathan Scheelhaase a red shirt freshman will be the starting QB for them this year. Mikel LeShoure will continue be the work horse back for the team this year. Hopefully A.J. Jenkins and Jarrad Fayson can both improve on last years performance at receiver. The o-line will look to fill the holes at center and at the left tackle spot as well. They do have talent back at both guard spots and at right tackle.
Defense
The linebacker's are all back and have experience, headlined by Martez Wilson, Ian Thomas, and Michael Buchanan. The corners have a year of experience under their belts and look to have a better season this time around, but the safety spot could be problem if Walter Aikens doesn't return to the team. Clay Nurse is back for his final go around at d-end and he will look to improve on his sack total from last season. Corey Liuget has a chance to make the All- Big Ten Team this year from his tackle spot.
Special Teams
Kicker Matt Eller will look to be the starting kicker again this season as he hopes to regain his form from 2008 and possibly unseat Derek Dimke.
Conclusion
Hopefully LeShoure can take some of the pressure off of the new QB while he learns the new offensive system and the wide outs are able to show improvement. The line and linebackers should be solid this year provided they can find some help in the secondary. I predict that Illionis will get 4 wins this year.

Minnesota
Offense
Can the Gophers move up in the Big Ten standings this year? QB Adam Weber hopes to have a better year in the TD to int ratio department then he did last season. MarQueis Gray could get some snaps in a specialty role this year as well. The line will look to be better this year, since it didn't play all that great last season. The wide outs are unproven and will look to gain experience this season. Eskridge and Bennett will also look for a bounce back year as well after struggling running the ball last year.
Defense
Jewhan Edwards and Brandon Kirksey have all the talent in the world now they just have to put it together at the tackle positions. Ra'Shede Hageman could make the All Big Ten team this year. The linebackers are green and will need time to develop. The secondary seems to have a lack of depth and a lot of young unproven talent.
Special Teams
Troy Stoudermire and Bryant Allen are two dependable return men. Kicker Eric Ellestad is reliable and punter Dan Orseske is back after battling health problems last year and he has a cannon for a leg.
Conclusion
I think the line could have their troubles this season and it may be a long year for them. The defense has talent but it is still young and it must grow up a little bit. I predict that they will have 3 wins this season due to a very difficult schedule.

ACC Coastal

2010-06-02T14:30:00.030-04:00

North Carolina
Offense
Will this be the year that UNC goes to the ACC Championship game? QB T.J Yates has an opportunity to have a very good year because of the talent that is around him. That's as long as he can hold off Bryn Renner. The Tar Heels have lots of talent coming back at the running back and the receiver positions. The tandem of Ryan Houston and Shaun Draughn need to gain more yardage this year then in years past. Whoever the QB is this year they will have a very good tight end to throw to in Zach Pianoalto, a number one receiving target in Greg Little, and a down field target in Jheranie Boyd. The o-line should be improved this year as well.
Defense
UNC was one of the better defensive teams statistically last season and they look to improve on that this upcoming season. They have a ton of potential NFL draft picks on this side of the ball. Robert Quinn will try to improve on his sack total from last season, while Marvin Austin and Tyreke Powell are the big cogs in middle of the defense. The linebacker's are cat quick lead by Bruce Carter and Quan Sturdivant. The corners and safety spots are headed by seniors (Kendric Burney and Deunta Williams).
Special Teams
The Tar Heels must find someone to step in and be an adequate kick returner for them. Casey Barth is a very reliable kicker, but Grant Schallock's punting needs to be better. Da'Norris Scott is a very reliable punt returner.
Conclusion
UNC is my pick to go to the ACC tittle game this year. If the QB situation is settled then that person will have a ton of weapons at his disposal to throw to, but the running game has to play better then last year.The defense will keep UNC in games this year and can be nationally rank in every defensive statistical category again provided they can find depth in certain areas that they need. I think UNC will get 9 wins this year.

Virginia Tech
Offense
Can the Hokies get back to the national tittle game? Tyrod Taylor is going to lead the offense this year and he is a very good mobile QB. The Hokies have two of the better backs in the country this year in Ryan Williams and Darren Evans who was the starter the year before he had gotten injured last year. The receivers are now upperclassmen with Taylor's favorite targets being Jarrett Boykin, Dyrell Roberts, and Danny Coale. Virgina Tech's line is good on the right side, but it needs some people to fill in on the left side of it.
Defense
The Tech defense has a lot of unproven players along the d-line, linebackers and in the secondary as well. They will need some of there younger players to step up and make an impact for the team this year. A lot of the battles for starting positions will still be decided in fall camp.
Special Teams
Virgina Tech will have to break in a new kicker and punter this year. Hopefully they can do the job once the season rolls around.
Conclusion
VT's offense should be in good shape with two very good running backs and receivers to throw to. If the line can find replacements along the left side they should be good to go and will be ready to put some points on the board. The two main areas of concern are the defense which will need help from some of their more unproven players, and there is an unknown in the kicking game as well. I predict that Tech will have 8 to 9 wins this year.

Miami
Offense
Lots of talent is back on both sides of the ball for the Hurricane's, but will that equal even more wins this year? QB Jacory Harris did make some improvements last year, he just needs to limit his turnovers. The receiver's are talented led by Lenoard Hankerson, LaRon Byrd and Travis Benjamin who is a real weapon on offense for Miami. The tight end spot is going to be the real question mark on for this team due to lack of playing experience? Miami has a good combination of both speed backs and power backs to use at their disposal. The offensive line only has two players back who have started for them, but they need the other 3 spots filled.
Defense
The d-line has tons of talent and most of them were in a game situation at one point in time. Allen Bailey had the most sacks out of anyone on the team last year and the year before that as well. The linebacking core is good at the outside position, but the middle is where the questions start to arise and do have some of their back ups coming off of injuries as well. The corners and safety spots are filled with experience and upperclassmen. Keep an eye on Vaughn Telemaque. If he lives up to his potential, he could be an NFL prospect one day.
Special Teams
Miami has some very fast return men that they could use on both kickoffs and punt returns. Kicking and punting will be done by Matt Bosher.
Conclusion
If Harris can cut down on his int's and the o-line can fill the holes that they need to, then the Miami offense will be in good shape. If the linebackers can stay healthy and someone is found for the middle then they should have no problem getting back to a bowl game again this year. I predict that they will have 7 to 8 wins this year.

Georgia Tech
Offense
Can Georgia Tech be just as productive as it was last year? QB Josh Nesbitt can beat teams either running or throwing the ball. The line and the receivers are young with a combination of Juniors, sophomores and freshmen making up the 1st and 2nd string units. The backs have experience and look to carry the load this time around are Rodney Jones, Embry Peoples, and Anthony Allen who should get the bulk of the carries this year.
Defense
Tech will be going to a 3-4 defense this year because they want to get after the quarterback more. Tech didn't do to bad last year on this side of the ball, but improvement is always something to shoot for. The linebackers look to be the most experienced group and could be relied upon early on since the d-line and secondary will look to rotate players in.
Special Teams
Chandler Anderson was a good punter last year despite only being used sparingly at times due to how much Tech was scoring the ball at will. Scott Blair is hoping to have a bounce back year after not doing so well last year. The coverage teams and the return teams are looking for better play this season than last season.
Conclusion
The run game should be good this year, I don't think they can replicate last years stats but they will try too. The defense will need some time to get used to the new defensive scheme and hopefully they can get more turnovers on defense. I predict that Tech will have 6 to 7 wins this year.

Duke
Offense
Can Duke go to a bowl this year? Renfree will try to come back healthy in August from a knee injury that he got during the Spring. If he does come back healthy, he is a very accurate passer. Surprisingly Duke was one of the better passing teams last year in the country. That same group is back again this time around lead by a trio of receivers; Donovan Varner, Connor Vernon, and Austin Kelly. The line does have four experienced players coming back this year as well. The running game will look for improvement this time around because it was ranked dead last in the run game last year. Desmond Scott who is from North Carolina and was a highly decorated player coming out of high school, will be in his second year in the system so hopefully Duke can improve in this department.
Defense
The front four are very limited up front with a lack of players, but they do have some experience coming back upfront though. Duke has a very senior laden line backing group headlined by Damian Thorton. The secondary is led by Matt Daniels, who had the most takeaways on the team last year.
Special Teams
What was once a negative is now a positive for Duke. They have a punter in Kevin Jones, a return man in Johnny Williams, and a kicker Will Snydenderwine.
Conclusion
If Duke can improve on its ground game and Renfree can stay healthy the offense should be able to move the ball and score more points this year. The defense is what could hurt them this year with so many people to replace long the line and in the secondary I think that may cost them a bowl birth. I think they will finish with 4 wins this year.

Virginia
Offense
A new energy and excitement in Virginia this year with new coach Mike London. Their are lots of question marks on this side of the ball starting with a new blocking scheme that the o-line has to get used too. Will Marc Verica be the starting QB or will someone else step up and take the job from him? The receiving spots need to be filled, with the one constant being Tim Smith. Virginia does have a good mix of running backs to choose from in size and speed.
Defense
Gone are the days of the 3-4 look and now Virginia is switching to the 4-3 defense. The front line will want to be turned loose in the new 4-3 with speed being the key here. The linebackers are lead by Steve Greer in the middle, while the outside linebacking spots are still wide open. One corner spot is patrolled by Ras-I Dowling while one safety spot is occupied by Rodney McLeod.
Special Teams
This is an area that will need to be improved in every phase of the game from kicking, to returns, and on coverage as well.
Conclusion
The Cavs are OK on backs and receivers but the question is who will the QB be and how long will it take for the o-line to get used to the new blocking scheme? The defense has a couple of good pieces, but I don't think its enough to be good right now especially with a different scheme this year that is going in. I think the Cavs will get 2 wins this year.

ACC (Atlantic)

2010-06-01T12:20:00.027-04:00

Florida State
Offense
While they do have alot coming back this year the question becomes can the defense be better then last years? If so then they are my pick to win the Atlantic. The offense brings back almost everyone at the major skill positions and the o-line is filled with upperclassmen so that is a help as well.
Defense
The question becomes can the defense be able to stop anyone. Teams were able to score alot of points on them last year. Their defense is young across the board with sophomore's and freshmen, so it may take some time for this unit to gel and play together.
Special Teams
FSU should have one of the better special teams unit's in the country this year. They have a very dangerous return man in Greg Ried and a very good kicker in Hopkins who can kick beyond 50 yards. Powell can get some good distance on his punts having a 41.6yrd average, according to Athlon.
Conclusion
If this team can survive a difficult non-conference slate early on then they should be able to get 8-9 wins with the key being the defense coming together.

Boston College
Offense
Can BC capitalize on an 8 win season? With the QB now in place that being Dave Shinskie who was playing baseball last year. Shinskie does need to cut down on his int's though because he threw more int's then td's last year. BC does have 4 o-line back and they have a new center who played guard last year, so that position could be an interesting one to watch. Montel Harris is a good running back, but he can't do it all himself and he will need a very thin receiving group to step up and help him out this year.
Defense
The d-line could be used on a rotation basis due to the lack of experience up front. The linebackers should be stingy with their leading tackler being only a sophomore in Kuechly and also hopefully to have the services of Mark Herzlich who is coming back after his bout with cancer last year. The corner and safty groups are talented and experienced.
Special Teams
BC will need to find a new kicker and returners as well. Ryah Quigley was one of the better punters in the ACC last year and hopefully he can duplicate that effort again this year for BC as well.
Conclusion
If BC can find answers at kicker, d-line, wr, and cut down on turnovers by Shinkie then they should have a good year this year, possibly 7-8 wins

Clemson
Offense
Can defense the hold, while the offense tries to find itself? The question for Clemson becomes who will be the QB for this year with Kyle Parker future in doubt due to baseball and having an unproven QB in Tajh Boyd who becomes the leader of the team? The Tigers are razor thin along the o-line, and the wr's need that go to guy. The RB's will be a one two punch of Andre Ellington and Jamie Harper who hasn't lived up to expectations just yet so this is a big year for him to have a breakout season.
Defense
Clemson's defense is deep and talented at the d-line and in the secondary,but the linebackers are an area of concern. Keep an eye on Da'Quan Bowers and Andre Branch they could really make some noise this year. CU also has one of the better safety duo's in the ACC this year in DeAndre McDaniel who had 8 picks last year and Rashard Hall The LB's are OK but they need to do better and hopefully they can have some of the younger players on their two deep step up and help them out.
Special Teams
They need work on kicking because they weren't consistent enough on field goals and extra points last year.
Conclusion
If Parker does come back then they should be OK, but if Boyd is the starter then it may take him some time to get used to being the starter. CU needs to have it's WRs step up and help out the run game if they are to be successful this year. Clemson is hoping the o-line can stay injury free this season. The defense should be fine as long as they could solve the LB problems. Hopefully they can find a consistent kicker this year as well to keep them in games, I figure 6-7 wins this year

Maryland
Offense
Can the offense and defense be able to improve this year for Maryland to have success? The Terps are lead by Jamarr Robinson who got some game experience last year and hopefully he can capitalize on the playing times that he recived last year. The wr's are very deep and they are led by Torrey Smith who lead the team in yards, receptions, and touchdowns as well. Terps have a very good stable of running backs led by Da'rel Scott. The o-line is going to be the key for the Terps this season because last year 3 of the 5 lineman last year were freshman and now they have a year of experience and are hoping to play better as a group this season.

Defense
The LB'ers have lots of depth coming back this year led by Alex Wujciak and according to Athlon he was ranked eighth nationally with 10.9 tackles per game and he has 130 or more tackles each of the past two seasons. Along the d-line they have a good mix of youth and experience coming back this year. The corner backs will need both spots filled, but the safety spots are in good hands with Kenny Tate and Antwine Perez bringing the wood.
Special Teams
The Terps should have one a very good kicker in Nick Ferrara who has had success form beyond 40 yards and a punter in Travis Baltz who according to Athlon is rank fifth in school history with an average of (40.9) yards. Maryland will have to show improvment in the return game this year in order to succuessful.
Conclusion
As long the o-line can improve from last season the Terp offense has the weapons to be a very successfully unit. The defense should be OK as long as they could find capable corners. The K/P will could be one of the better K/P in the ACC this year. If everything can come together for Maryland I think they could have a 6 win season this year.

Wake Forest
Offense
Can Wake's defense get back to what it was a couple a years ago causing turnovers and attacking the ball and will a QB be found for the offense to go? A QB needs to be found and its still unknown at this time who wil be leading the offense? The running back duo of Josh Adams and Brandon Pendregrass have experience and are both battle tested. Wake's wr's are talented and are led by Devon Brown, Marshall Willams, and Chris Givens. With only two o-linemen coming back this year and every other position up for grabs their will be competition come August camp for starting spots along the line.
Defense
Wake wants to get back to the attacking defense that they once had a couple of years ago causing a bunch of turnovers. The d-line will be young at the tackle position, but Wake wants to get after the QB from the defensive end positions and from the corners and safety's as well. The linebackers have a good combination of experience back, as well as some inexperience as well.
Special Teams
This is an area that needs to improve this year. They have a kicker in Jimmy Newman who can add punter to his list of duties this year as well. The return teams were OK in the past, but they need to be a little bit better this year.
Conclusion
If Wake can find a QB to manage the offense then they should be OK there as long as they could get the o-line to protect their new QB. The defense should be OK, but there is some concern with the lack of experience at the tackle and linbacker spot? Also the special teams really need to improve this year as well. I predict that Wake will win 4 games this year.

NC State
Offense
Can a good offense be good enough to save a struggling defense? The Wolfpack have a very good QB in Russell Wilson who thought about entering the MLB draft. He will have a good group of receiver's to throw to as well as a good pass catching tight end. Question marks are found along the o-line and at the running back position?. They have one running back who is coming off a redshirt year in Curtis Underwood and another back who is coming off of an injury in James Washingtion. The o-line is very young with the tackles being the only ones with game experience.
Defense
The front line lacks depth, but it does have some upperclassmen at the defensive end position. The secondary was young last year and it must improve by not giving up so many points.
Special Teams
The Wolfpack have a very reliable kicker in Josh Czajkowski and a very dangrous kick and punt returner T.J. Graham who has speed to burn. The punting situation will probably be decided during August camp.
Conclusion
NC State has a good QB in place as long as the o-line can gain some experience and the running back situation can be figured out. The defense will need help and it needs to stop giving up the big plays. I predict that they will have 4 wins.

Up next the ACC (Coastal Dvision)

Disclaimer

2010-05-31T19:45:00.000-04:00

These are the opinions of Eric Arcurie.