As a fan of history I loooovvveee the Big 10. Really, an SEC guy who likes Big 10 football. The history these programs have, the Michigan fight song and helmets, the dotting of the i at Ohio St, the trophy games, the noon kickoffs, it is great college football-but now I have to dog them. They have not won a BCS game since Ohio St bitchslapped Notre Dame and have been the whipping boys for Florida and LSU in title games and by USC in the last 2 Rose Bowls (Illinois had no business going to the Rose Bowl that year).
1. Ohio St Buckeyes-Terrelle Pryor is the lone QB this year, and should open the Buckeye offense as he is a run and pass threat at the QB position. This is a potential banner year for the Buckeyes, and a win over USC on Sept 12 in Columbus will be a prime time national game on ABC.
Player to watch: QB Terrelle Pryor
2. Penn St Nittany Lions-This was a tough choice, but I am going Penn St as a close 2nd. Why? I think they have the talent, but USC put on a show on how to dismantle this offense in the Rose Bowl, and the defense has only 4 starters back, with 5 on offense. The recruiting has helped, but they aren't in Pasadena this year.
Player to watch: LB Sean Lee
3. Iowa Hawkeyes-This is put up or shut up for Kirk Ferentz. A fluke play got them big pub in the 2005 Capital One Bowl over LSU, but a drilling of South Carolina in the Outback may put them back on the map. Iowa may have the most favorable home schedule but Ohio St and Penn St are on the road, and Penn St wants revenge for last year. I'm not ruling out a Rose Bowl as a possibility, but the road schedule worries me.
Player to watch: OT Bryan Bulaga
4. Illinois Fighting Illini-Ron Zook followed up a Rose Bowl in 2007 with a 5-7 record last year. The good news is no Penn St on the schedule, but Ohio St is and they have to go to Columbus. Juice Williams is back at QB, and next to Pryor is the best athlete at the position. Mike Shultz is the new OC, so look for a more balanced offensive attack (traditional Big 10) from the Illini, but with a touch of spread.
Player to watch: QB Juice Williams
5. Michigan St Spartans-Sparty got a little better last year, and this could be a big year in East Lansing if all falls into place. If Brian Hoyer hadn't graduated this may have been my Big 10 pick. The good news is that the Spartans return 15 starters (8 on defense) from the squad that made the Cap One Bowl last year. Even though this is a ball control offense, the QB is important, and that could hurt Sparty this year.
Player to watch: LB Greg Jones
6. Minnesota Golden Gophers-Tim Brewster has things going good here, but a tough top of the Big 10 means his best team at Minnesota is in the mid level here. I'm not ruling out a bowl bid, but they hype of a new stadium and having Penn St and Ohio St on the road in back to back weeks means that there will be no roses this year. But 17 starters return (9 on Offense) so the points will be plentiful.
Player to watch: QB Adam Weber
7. Wisconsin Badgers-Reality is setting in at Madison. Brett Bielema took over for Barry Alvarez who put this program on the map, and except for his 1st season has disappointed. The good news is that the Badgers could get off to a fast start, which if they do could carry them far into the Big 10, but the start of conference play will be brutal as they host Mich St and go on the road at Minnesota and Ohio St in their 1st 3 Conference games. On a plus side, the Badgers will be the last Big 10 team to play in the regular season as they travel to Hawaii for a Dec 5 game.
Player to watch: TE Garrett Graham
8. Northwestern Wildcats-I like Pat Fitgerald as a coach and a person, but this is another roller coaster year. 13 starters back (8 on defense) means growing pains for the Cats this year. QB Mike Kafka is back for his senior year, and his offensive line is intact. I expect a quick start but if they knock off Minnesota and Purdue and get off to a 5-0 start, this could be an interesting season as all they would need to do to be bowl eligible is beat Miami of Ohio, Mich St, Indiana, Penn St, Iowa Illinois and Wisc to be bowl eligible. 2 out of 6 aint bad.
Player to watch: DE Corey Wooton
9. Michigan Wolverines-Rich Rodriguez spent a year switching an I formation offense to his spread and he has a lot of work left to do. The recruits are coming in, and that is good for the future. But the present should be of concern. There is no official starter at QB but it looks like Tate Forcier a talented true freshman could see playing time this year. Since that is the only spot where a starter has to be replaced you see the problems. Greg Robinson takes over at DC and should turn around an awful defense.
Player to watch: RB Brandon Miner
10. Purdue Boilermakers-I love colleges named after booze. Why isn't this an SEC school (I mean besides it being in the North, wouldn't Mississippi St sound better as the Mint Juleps than the Bulldogs?)? Anyway a new HC is in town Danny Hope, who was an OL coach under Joe Tiller. 12 starters are back, (7 on D) so look for them to shoulder the load once again. Sadly though, it looks like 4-8 once again.
Player to watch: DT Mike Neal
11. Indiana Hoosiers-Funny that you get picked 11th in the Big 10. Isn't that strange? Anyway the Hoosiers were my sentimental faves after the death of Terry Hoeppner in 2007, and made it to a bowl game that year. HC Bill Lynch has a tough job ahead of him, as Ohio St and Penn St are on the schedule.
Player to watch: LB Will Patterson
Sunday, August 9, 2009
2009 Big East Preview
I have them rated as my last BCS conference this season simply because I am not seeing anything strong from this conference at all. No teams scare me, Rutgers is good, but not great. Pitt has there moments but they fall flat and hard.
1. Pitt Panthers-Dave Wannstedt has done an alright job at Pitt, and it seems that the recruits are coming in. But on to the now, Pitt has some issues-mainly the developement of QB Bill Stull. But the Panthers could take the title simply by playing well on defense.
2. Rutgers Scarlet Knights-Greg Schiano has doen a helluva coaching job here, turning down big offers from other schools. Now, he has program in contention for BCS berths year in and year out. This season the Scarlet Knights get a faovrable schedule, and could win the BE, but I like Pitt's defense to get them over the hump.
3. USF Bulls-Jim Leavett has done wonders as the only coach in the school's history. The Bulls though have a tough climb this year, taking Pitt and Rutgers on the road.
4. West Virginia Mountaineers-Bill Stewart faces life without Pat White, but he does have Noel Devine coming back to carry the rock. This team is young and deceptive-could place 4th, but could realistically win the BE. The mystery will infold soon.
5. Connecticut Huskies-Randy Edsel has made some changes-new OC to go with his new QB. The defense must carry the Huskies this season if they want to go to a bowl game once again.
6. Cincinnati Bearcats-The eyes are on them. Brian Kelly took them to their 1st BCS game a year ago, and has to struggle with Ohio St to get the top in state recruits. This year the Bearcats must replace 10 starters on defense, while 10 are back on offense. Expect shootouts weekly.
7. Louisville Cardinals-Steve Kragthorpe was once the talk of college football at Tulsa. Since taking over at Louisville, he has dragged this team to the ground, and it isn't looking good this year either. Expect a new front man in 2010.
8. Syracuse Orangemen-Former Saints OC Doug Marrone takes over as the head coach, and has as his starting QB a former Duke Point Guard. 0-12 has a nice ring to it doesn't it? A shame for a once proud program, but Marrone may be the fix the Orange need to rebuild.
I'm not saying this isn't a talented league, but this is not a good conference. They lost out to the ACC which took Va Tech, Miami and BC away from them. The replacements aren't much to look at. Again, if I had my notes, more details would be available, and I will update them in a few weeks, time permitting.
1. Pitt Panthers-Dave Wannstedt has done an alright job at Pitt, and it seems that the recruits are coming in. But on to the now, Pitt has some issues-mainly the developement of QB Bill Stull. But the Panthers could take the title simply by playing well on defense.
2. Rutgers Scarlet Knights-Greg Schiano has doen a helluva coaching job here, turning down big offers from other schools. Now, he has program in contention for BCS berths year in and year out. This season the Scarlet Knights get a faovrable schedule, and could win the BE, but I like Pitt's defense to get them over the hump.
3. USF Bulls-Jim Leavett has done wonders as the only coach in the school's history. The Bulls though have a tough climb this year, taking Pitt and Rutgers on the road.
4. West Virginia Mountaineers-Bill Stewart faces life without Pat White, but he does have Noel Devine coming back to carry the rock. This team is young and deceptive-could place 4th, but could realistically win the BE. The mystery will infold soon.
5. Connecticut Huskies-Randy Edsel has made some changes-new OC to go with his new QB. The defense must carry the Huskies this season if they want to go to a bowl game once again.
6. Cincinnati Bearcats-The eyes are on them. Brian Kelly took them to their 1st BCS game a year ago, and has to struggle with Ohio St to get the top in state recruits. This year the Bearcats must replace 10 starters on defense, while 10 are back on offense. Expect shootouts weekly.
7. Louisville Cardinals-Steve Kragthorpe was once the talk of college football at Tulsa. Since taking over at Louisville, he has dragged this team to the ground, and it isn't looking good this year either. Expect a new front man in 2010.
8. Syracuse Orangemen-Former Saints OC Doug Marrone takes over as the head coach, and has as his starting QB a former Duke Point Guard. 0-12 has a nice ring to it doesn't it? A shame for a once proud program, but Marrone may be the fix the Orange need to rebuild.
I'm not saying this isn't a talented league, but this is not a good conference. They lost out to the ACC which took Va Tech, Miami and BC away from them. The replacements aren't much to look at. Again, if I had my notes, more details would be available, and I will update them in a few weeks, time permitting.
2009 Moutnain West Preview
Since I consider this a legitimate BCS Conference, I will treat it as such. Back in the 1980's most of these schools were in the WAC and put up large numbers of points. BYU was even the 1984 national champion despite going 12-0 and not playing on New Year's Day. This is a competitive conference however, and this year is no exception. The big question will be if the conference champ goes to another BCS bowl, which I think is safe to say, yes.
1. BYU Cougars-Bronco Mendenhall has done a terrific job since taking over, but this year his defense needs to shore up the Cougars. Despite only having 4 starters back on offense I never really doubt the Cougars since they can score any time and often (Not a Mormon joke-so please do not take offense). The schedule is favorable in conference as Utah, TCU and Air Force travel to Provo. Oklahoma kicks off the season, and it could be a potential upset, and a great feather in the Bowl Selection cap should BYU win the MWC.
Player to watch: QB Max Hall
2. Air Force Falcons-I know you are doing a double take, but never rule out an option based offense backed by a stout defense. Air Force is flying under the radar (Military pun intended) and that is where you get bombed (Sorry for the bad pun). The Falcons return 6 on each side, giving them, UNLV and Wyoming as the only teams to return the same starters on each side. An easy schedule could give them a fast 4-0 start and knocking off Navy could make them 5-0 and ranked leading into hosting TCU.
Player to watch: LB Ken Lamendola
3. TCU Horned Frogs-I like the job Gary Patterson has done at TCU. But it seems that they come so close, yet so far away from being in a major Bowl game. The talent is on par, and he has had some big wins (ask Bob Stoops), but they just can't seem to put it together. I think this is the most talented team top to bottom-but show me. The schedule has Virginia and Clemson as NC games, but the tough games are on the road in conference-Air Force and BYU.
Player to watch: QB Andy Dalton
4. Utah Utes-The darlings of last year the Utes should have gotten love from the AP as they were the only unbeaten team last year. This year they may be reloading, I would pick them higher but you lose Andre Johnson at QB, you lose your best offensive edge. The Utes defense is strong, so is the running game. Another title run isn't out of the question-but a BCS berth is ubnlikely. Louisville and Oregon are the main NC games, but I don't see them beating Oregon and if they do, they might get recognition. The problem is they are getting everyone's best shot this year.
Player to watch: RB Matt Asiata, Jr
5. UNLV Running Rebels-This could be a breakout year for UNLV and head coach Mike Sanford. Urban Meyer's OC at Utah, the Rebs went 5-7 last year and return 7 on each side of the ball. This is by far his most experienced team, and there is optimism that really hasn't been there in a while. The recruiting is strong, and if the players can avoid off field temptations (that's hard to do in Vegas), then a bowl game is not out of the equation.
Player to watch: QB Omar Connor
6. Colorado State Rams-The moment that CSU hired Steve Fairchild, I had doubts. Sonny Lubick came in with a lot of credentials, and recruiting savvy that helped him turn around a losing program. But Fairchild did impress his 1st year on the job going 7-6 and picking up a Bowl win. This team resembles the old school CSU-plenty back on offense, not much back on defense. The road schedule in conference (BYU, TCU, UNLV) will be tough to overcome, and then there is the showdown with instate rival Colorado to kick things off.
Player to watch: LB Mychal Sisson
7. Wyoming Cowboys-Potential is here to have a great season. 8 starters on back on both sides of the ball, the conference heavies are coming to Laramie. But a new head coach in Dave Christensen comes in who was the OC in Missouri, so I don't doubt the offense production. Marty English was the LB coach last year and is now the DC. Texas is the big NC game this year, and the tough confernce road test is Utah. Ouch.
Player to watch: DE Mitch Unrein
8. San Diego State Aztecs-Brady Hoke left Ball St for this job on the other side of the country. This shocked me since it was so severe a move. The good news is that there is a lot of experienced players (8 on O; 7 on D) that will help out this year. But learning new systems might be the key-the Aztecs play UCLA, Southern Utah and Idaho before rolling into conference play on the road at Air Force. BYU and Utah come ot San Diego, so that is good news there. If this team gets off to a 2-2 start, consider it a success, but 1-3 looks more likely.
Player to watch: WR Vincent Brown
9. New Mexico Lobos-Rocky Hall is out, Mike Locksley the OC at Illinois is in. Experience is key on his staff, as former LSU assistant and North Texas HC Darrell Dickey runs the high powered no huddle spread offense, and to round out the LSU conncection Doug Mallory is not a co DC like he was at LSU last year. The defense should carry the Lobo's this year, but the transition from a simple pro style attack to the spread will take time. But strong recruiting helps as this is the foundation year and 2010 is the breakout year.
Player to watch: S Ian Clark
1. BYU Cougars-Bronco Mendenhall has done a terrific job since taking over, but this year his defense needs to shore up the Cougars. Despite only having 4 starters back on offense I never really doubt the Cougars since they can score any time and often (Not a Mormon joke-so please do not take offense). The schedule is favorable in conference as Utah, TCU and Air Force travel to Provo. Oklahoma kicks off the season, and it could be a potential upset, and a great feather in the Bowl Selection cap should BYU win the MWC.
Player to watch: QB Max Hall
2. Air Force Falcons-I know you are doing a double take, but never rule out an option based offense backed by a stout defense. Air Force is flying under the radar (Military pun intended) and that is where you get bombed (Sorry for the bad pun). The Falcons return 6 on each side, giving them, UNLV and Wyoming as the only teams to return the same starters on each side. An easy schedule could give them a fast 4-0 start and knocking off Navy could make them 5-0 and ranked leading into hosting TCU.
Player to watch: LB Ken Lamendola
3. TCU Horned Frogs-I like the job Gary Patterson has done at TCU. But it seems that they come so close, yet so far away from being in a major Bowl game. The talent is on par, and he has had some big wins (ask Bob Stoops), but they just can't seem to put it together. I think this is the most talented team top to bottom-but show me. The schedule has Virginia and Clemson as NC games, but the tough games are on the road in conference-Air Force and BYU.
Player to watch: QB Andy Dalton
4. Utah Utes-The darlings of last year the Utes should have gotten love from the AP as they were the only unbeaten team last year. This year they may be reloading, I would pick them higher but you lose Andre Johnson at QB, you lose your best offensive edge. The Utes defense is strong, so is the running game. Another title run isn't out of the question-but a BCS berth is ubnlikely. Louisville and Oregon are the main NC games, but I don't see them beating Oregon and if they do, they might get recognition. The problem is they are getting everyone's best shot this year.
Player to watch: RB Matt Asiata, Jr
5. UNLV Running Rebels-This could be a breakout year for UNLV and head coach Mike Sanford. Urban Meyer's OC at Utah, the Rebs went 5-7 last year and return 7 on each side of the ball. This is by far his most experienced team, and there is optimism that really hasn't been there in a while. The recruiting is strong, and if the players can avoid off field temptations (that's hard to do in Vegas), then a bowl game is not out of the equation.
Player to watch: QB Omar Connor
6. Colorado State Rams-The moment that CSU hired Steve Fairchild, I had doubts. Sonny Lubick came in with a lot of credentials, and recruiting savvy that helped him turn around a losing program. But Fairchild did impress his 1st year on the job going 7-6 and picking up a Bowl win. This team resembles the old school CSU-plenty back on offense, not much back on defense. The road schedule in conference (BYU, TCU, UNLV) will be tough to overcome, and then there is the showdown with instate rival Colorado to kick things off.
Player to watch: LB Mychal Sisson
7. Wyoming Cowboys-Potential is here to have a great season. 8 starters on back on both sides of the ball, the conference heavies are coming to Laramie. But a new head coach in Dave Christensen comes in who was the OC in Missouri, so I don't doubt the offense production. Marty English was the LB coach last year and is now the DC. Texas is the big NC game this year, and the tough confernce road test is Utah. Ouch.
Player to watch: DE Mitch Unrein
8. San Diego State Aztecs-Brady Hoke left Ball St for this job on the other side of the country. This shocked me since it was so severe a move. The good news is that there is a lot of experienced players (8 on O; 7 on D) that will help out this year. But learning new systems might be the key-the Aztecs play UCLA, Southern Utah and Idaho before rolling into conference play on the road at Air Force. BYU and Utah come ot San Diego, so that is good news there. If this team gets off to a 2-2 start, consider it a success, but 1-3 looks more likely.
Player to watch: WR Vincent Brown
9. New Mexico Lobos-Rocky Hall is out, Mike Locksley the OC at Illinois is in. Experience is key on his staff, as former LSU assistant and North Texas HC Darrell Dickey runs the high powered no huddle spread offense, and to round out the LSU conncection Doug Mallory is not a co DC like he was at LSU last year. The defense should carry the Lobo's this year, but the transition from a simple pro style attack to the spread will take time. But strong recruiting helps as this is the foundation year and 2010 is the breakout year.
Player to watch: S Ian Clark
Sunday, July 19, 2009
2009 WAC Preview
I consider this a BCS Conference, so I will treat it as such. I will profile the player to watch this year, as well as my commentary on each team. The WAC used to be called the WACky conference in the 80's when most of the current Mountain West was in it, and the scores were usually 41-38. That is no longer the case, as this conference can hold up to the other BCS schools. While 8th out of my BCS Conferences, this is not a pushover by any stretch.
1. Boise St.-The Broncos under Chris Petersen have won more games in the last 3 years than USC, LSU, and Florida. Despite returning 11 starters (6 on Offense), this team has the best upside with a lot of name recognition across the country. Going 12-0 last year got them the Poinsettia Bowl and a 17-16 loss to TCU last year, but if they can pull it off this year, Tempe is calling once again.
Player to watch: QB Kellen Moore
2. Louisiana Tech-The Bulldogs under Derek Dooley improved by leaps and bounds to tie for 2nd last year. The good news is that the bulk of starters are back (16-9 on Offense) but the bad news is road games at Nevada. But with Boise coming to Ruston, an upset is not unlikely, and neither is one at Auburn to start the season.
Player to watch: WR Phillip Livas
3. Nevada-Don't turn your back on the Wolfpack. They lead the conference in rushing, and balance out with 7 starters back ono each side. This teams strenghts are in the trenches, and if games come to that, Nevada will win this conference outright. But wrapping it up on Smurf turf later in the year isn't the best way to close things out.
Player to watch: RB Vai Taua
4. Fresno St-Pat Hill wishes it were 2001 again. He had the Bulldogs on cloud 9, a good College QB and upsets galore. Now, things are tough at Fresno, but he has a safe cushion in the Valley. The good news is that 15 starers are back (8 on Defense), but with a new QB to break in, there are a lot of questions as Fresno looks to get back in the WAC hunt.
Player to watch: G Andrew Jackson
5. San Jose St-The Spartans have had a lot of success under Dick Tomey, who made Arizona a PAC 10 power with their Desert Swarm Defense. Now with his "Dine in Hell" defense (I made up the name) he has them on the right track. The numbers are fovorable (15 starters, 8 on Offense) but the road games hurt-Boise St, Fresno St and La. Tech are conference roadies. The big one is the killer-USC is not very forgiving espiecially if it's your opener. Ouch.
Player to watch: QB Kyle Reed
6. Utah St-The Aggies welcome a rival coach as their new head man as Gary Andersen left the Utes of Utah to try and revive a program that hasn't had success in 12 years. There is a lot of experienced starters returning but for a 1st year coach that is meaningless as he implements his system. The good news is that he inherits a better program than his predecessor inherited, so there could be an upswing. Armed with an experienced college staff, the future is bright-in 2010.
Player to watch: QB Diondre Borel
7. Hawaii-June Jones and Jerry Glanville left here, and the Warriors struggled. Guess what looks the same this year? Hawaii fans will miss the days of Chang and Brennan, but for a defensive coach like HC Greg McMackin to have only 2 starters back on defense he must be losing sleep. At least they play in the most beautiful place in the US, even if they are a few hours back of the Pacific Time Zone. Trust me, I am being generous with this pick.
Player to watch: QB Greg Alexander
8. Idaho-Not the potatoes, but the Vandals. Yet potatoes may have been better to put in at times. The Vandals coach Rob Akey replaced Dennis Ericson, and has 3 wins in 2 years. I don't think he will finish the season but the schedule is a help-La Tech, Hawaii and Fresno come to Moscow this year.
Player to watch: DE Aaron Lavalais
9. New Mexico St-Is being an Aggie a prerequisite to being in this conference? Do you have to take Mascot 102 to get a better name? DeWayne Walker replaces Hal Mumme and is installing a new spread offense different from the Air Raid that Mumme ran. Walker will call the defense and that is good for the worst unit in America. I think Walker will be competitive, but nobody has won here in almost 50 years. Remember that.
Player to watch: WR Marcus Anderson
1. Boise St.-The Broncos under Chris Petersen have won more games in the last 3 years than USC, LSU, and Florida. Despite returning 11 starters (6 on Offense), this team has the best upside with a lot of name recognition across the country. Going 12-0 last year got them the Poinsettia Bowl and a 17-16 loss to TCU last year, but if they can pull it off this year, Tempe is calling once again.
Player to watch: QB Kellen Moore
2. Louisiana Tech-The Bulldogs under Derek Dooley improved by leaps and bounds to tie for 2nd last year. The good news is that the bulk of starters are back (16-9 on Offense) but the bad news is road games at Nevada. But with Boise coming to Ruston, an upset is not unlikely, and neither is one at Auburn to start the season.
Player to watch: WR Phillip Livas
3. Nevada-Don't turn your back on the Wolfpack. They lead the conference in rushing, and balance out with 7 starters back ono each side. This teams strenghts are in the trenches, and if games come to that, Nevada will win this conference outright. But wrapping it up on Smurf turf later in the year isn't the best way to close things out.
Player to watch: RB Vai Taua
4. Fresno St-Pat Hill wishes it were 2001 again. He had the Bulldogs on cloud 9, a good College QB and upsets galore. Now, things are tough at Fresno, but he has a safe cushion in the Valley. The good news is that 15 starers are back (8 on Defense), but with a new QB to break in, there are a lot of questions as Fresno looks to get back in the WAC hunt.
Player to watch: G Andrew Jackson
5. San Jose St-The Spartans have had a lot of success under Dick Tomey, who made Arizona a PAC 10 power with their Desert Swarm Defense. Now with his "Dine in Hell" defense (I made up the name) he has them on the right track. The numbers are fovorable (15 starters, 8 on Offense) but the road games hurt-Boise St, Fresno St and La. Tech are conference roadies. The big one is the killer-USC is not very forgiving espiecially if it's your opener. Ouch.
Player to watch: QB Kyle Reed
6. Utah St-The Aggies welcome a rival coach as their new head man as Gary Andersen left the Utes of Utah to try and revive a program that hasn't had success in 12 years. There is a lot of experienced starters returning but for a 1st year coach that is meaningless as he implements his system. The good news is that he inherits a better program than his predecessor inherited, so there could be an upswing. Armed with an experienced college staff, the future is bright-in 2010.
Player to watch: QB Diondre Borel
7. Hawaii-June Jones and Jerry Glanville left here, and the Warriors struggled. Guess what looks the same this year? Hawaii fans will miss the days of Chang and Brennan, but for a defensive coach like HC Greg McMackin to have only 2 starters back on defense he must be losing sleep. At least they play in the most beautiful place in the US, even if they are a few hours back of the Pacific Time Zone. Trust me, I am being generous with this pick.
Player to watch: QB Greg Alexander
8. Idaho-Not the potatoes, but the Vandals. Yet potatoes may have been better to put in at times. The Vandals coach Rob Akey replaced Dennis Ericson, and has 3 wins in 2 years. I don't think he will finish the season but the schedule is a help-La Tech, Hawaii and Fresno come to Moscow this year.
Player to watch: DE Aaron Lavalais
9. New Mexico St-Is being an Aggie a prerequisite to being in this conference? Do you have to take Mascot 102 to get a better name? DeWayne Walker replaces Hal Mumme and is installing a new spread offense different from the Air Raid that Mumme ran. Walker will call the defense and that is good for the worst unit in America. I think Walker will be competitive, but nobody has won here in almost 50 years. Remember that.
Player to watch: WR Marcus Anderson
2009 MAC Preview
This is the most odd of the Super Conferences. While most have 12, the MAC has 13. That makes for interesting scheduling, and gives one weight over the other. Is it fair? No, but it shouldn't matter. The MAC is getting better as a conference, and could have had a big star last year in Ball State had they beaten Buffalo in the title game last year.
MAC East
1. Ohio-Frank Solich has transformed Bobcat football for the better since arriving in 2005. With 14 starters back (7 on each side) and playing in tight games last year, the Bobcats are a team with a lot of upside in them. This is despite going 4-8 last year, but they could easily have been 9-3.
2. Akron-The Zips used to be a joke, but now they are a force to be reckoned with in the MAC, and should have a break out 2009. Penn St and Indiana are the 2 big NC games, and only Buffalo is the major road test in the conference. Look for a surprising 2009 here, especially if they knock off Indiana on Sept 19.
3. Buffalo-Many didn't think Turner Gill would return the last 2 years after not getting jobs at Nebraska and Auburn, but he is back and Bulls fans couldn't be any happier. He has lead them to their first winning seasons in years, and has done an excellent job in recruiting. Now Buffalo is no longer a pushover, but this is a rebuilding year, and the defense with 8 starters back has to carry this team.
4. Temple-My joke of the NCAA, Temple is best known as Bill Cosby's alma mater. They were kicked out of the Big East b/c they were horrible and used to bring in homeless people to fill the stands while they recruited football players. The Fighting Bill Cosby's under head coach Al Golden have a conference, and an impressive return with 15 starters back, 9 on defense. Temple would be higher if they had a proven track record of winning, but I think they are on the verge of being good.
5. Bowling Green-The Falcons haven't flown so high lately, but 1st year HC Dave Clawson hopes to bring back the intensity they had when Urban Meyer was there. The good news is that the future is bright. But they will take some lumps this year breaking in a new coach.
6. Kent St-The alma mater of Lou Holtz and Nick Saban has a lot of work to do. Doug Martin may be out this year, unless the Golden Flashes can pull it together. If the Flashes Special Teams can improve, it may be another long year, but the positives outweigh the negatives this year-15 starters return (8 on offense).
7. Miami, OH-Mike Haywood steps in after being at the 3 biggest programs in college football the last 15 years (LSU, Texas, and Notre Dame). He has a big task ahead of him as the Redhawks are in a rebuilding phase. Former Texas and LSU DC Carl Reese should get the defense up to speed, as this is a team to watch out for in the future.
MAC West
1. Central Michigan-WHat do you call a team that returns all of its weapons on offense, 10 defensive starters and losing only 10 lettermen from last years team? No it isn't Florida (the numbers are close) but the Chippewas have had that type of success and could replicate it like thye did in 2006. All the big playmakers on both sides are back, and this could be a special year. The 1st 2 games though-Arizona and Michigan St are tough tests.
2. Toledo-Holy Toledo! Okay, bad joke aside (sorry :( ) the Rockets break in Tim Beckman who replaces Tom Amstutz who is moving up to the AD job. Despite going 3-9 last year, the system isn't changing and that is good news for the 16 returning starters (9 on offense).
3. Northern Illinois-Jerry Kill has the coolest name of any coach in College Football, and when he played the game in his younger days. The Huskies can be a breakout team, but only 4 starters are back on Defense, and 7 on offense. It may be another year for the Huskies to break out of the fold, but they should be better in year 2 of the Kill era.
4. Western Michigan-Bill Cubit has had his teams come close to big things here, abut this is a tough task this year. The Broncos have 10 starters back, with 7 on offense but only 3 back on defense. This is a tough team to call, but I am going a bit pessimist here, only because the numbers don't favor the Broncos.
5. Eastern Michigan-Ron English has the task of getting things looking up for the Eagles. The good news is he is a good defensive coach and recruits in state fairly well (Former Michigan DC). He has brought an NFL type defense and offense to the Eagles, and has 17 returning starters, which may not mean much, but if they grasp the new systems thay should be decent and make a jump to 6-6.
6. Ball State-The best college name now that Beaver College changed its name, the Fighting David Letterman's gave him something to be proud of a year ago, but now have a new HC in Stan Parrish, who 6 years as a HC in other schools has a total to 2 wins. He follows a pattern of being an assistant to a successful coach who takes over when that coach leaves for what that coach thinks is a better job. Looks like Ball State won't be on Letterman's top 10 list this year.
MAC Championship Game
Ohio vs Central Michigan
MAC Champ
Central Michigan
MAC East
1. Ohio-Frank Solich has transformed Bobcat football for the better since arriving in 2005. With 14 starters back (7 on each side) and playing in tight games last year, the Bobcats are a team with a lot of upside in them. This is despite going 4-8 last year, but they could easily have been 9-3.
2. Akron-The Zips used to be a joke, but now they are a force to be reckoned with in the MAC, and should have a break out 2009. Penn St and Indiana are the 2 big NC games, and only Buffalo is the major road test in the conference. Look for a surprising 2009 here, especially if they knock off Indiana on Sept 19.
3. Buffalo-Many didn't think Turner Gill would return the last 2 years after not getting jobs at Nebraska and Auburn, but he is back and Bulls fans couldn't be any happier. He has lead them to their first winning seasons in years, and has done an excellent job in recruiting. Now Buffalo is no longer a pushover, but this is a rebuilding year, and the defense with 8 starters back has to carry this team.
4. Temple-My joke of the NCAA, Temple is best known as Bill Cosby's alma mater. They were kicked out of the Big East b/c they were horrible and used to bring in homeless people to fill the stands while they recruited football players. The Fighting Bill Cosby's under head coach Al Golden have a conference, and an impressive return with 15 starters back, 9 on defense. Temple would be higher if they had a proven track record of winning, but I think they are on the verge of being good.
5. Bowling Green-The Falcons haven't flown so high lately, but 1st year HC Dave Clawson hopes to bring back the intensity they had when Urban Meyer was there. The good news is that the future is bright. But they will take some lumps this year breaking in a new coach.
6. Kent St-The alma mater of Lou Holtz and Nick Saban has a lot of work to do. Doug Martin may be out this year, unless the Golden Flashes can pull it together. If the Flashes Special Teams can improve, it may be another long year, but the positives outweigh the negatives this year-15 starters return (8 on offense).
7. Miami, OH-Mike Haywood steps in after being at the 3 biggest programs in college football the last 15 years (LSU, Texas, and Notre Dame). He has a big task ahead of him as the Redhawks are in a rebuilding phase. Former Texas and LSU DC Carl Reese should get the defense up to speed, as this is a team to watch out for in the future.
MAC West
1. Central Michigan-WHat do you call a team that returns all of its weapons on offense, 10 defensive starters and losing only 10 lettermen from last years team? No it isn't Florida (the numbers are close) but the Chippewas have had that type of success and could replicate it like thye did in 2006. All the big playmakers on both sides are back, and this could be a special year. The 1st 2 games though-Arizona and Michigan St are tough tests.
2. Toledo-Holy Toledo! Okay, bad joke aside (sorry :( ) the Rockets break in Tim Beckman who replaces Tom Amstutz who is moving up to the AD job. Despite going 3-9 last year, the system isn't changing and that is good news for the 16 returning starters (9 on offense).
3. Northern Illinois-Jerry Kill has the coolest name of any coach in College Football, and when he played the game in his younger days. The Huskies can be a breakout team, but only 4 starters are back on Defense, and 7 on offense. It may be another year for the Huskies to break out of the fold, but they should be better in year 2 of the Kill era.
4. Western Michigan-Bill Cubit has had his teams come close to big things here, abut this is a tough task this year. The Broncos have 10 starters back, with 7 on offense but only 3 back on defense. This is a tough team to call, but I am going a bit pessimist here, only because the numbers don't favor the Broncos.
5. Eastern Michigan-Ron English has the task of getting things looking up for the Eagles. The good news is he is a good defensive coach and recruits in state fairly well (Former Michigan DC). He has brought an NFL type defense and offense to the Eagles, and has 17 returning starters, which may not mean much, but if they grasp the new systems thay should be decent and make a jump to 6-6.
6. Ball State-The best college name now that Beaver College changed its name, the Fighting David Letterman's gave him something to be proud of a year ago, but now have a new HC in Stan Parrish, who 6 years as a HC in other schools has a total to 2 wins. He follows a pattern of being an assistant to a successful coach who takes over when that coach leaves for what that coach thinks is a better job. Looks like Ball State won't be on Letterman's top 10 list this year.
MAC Championship Game
Ohio vs Central Michigan
MAC Champ
Central Michigan
2009 Conference USA Preview
C-USA is not exactly a BCS conference, but it does have a couple of Giant Killers in Southern Miss, Tulsa and last years one hit wonder East Carolina who knocked off Virginia Tech and West Virginia. Yet this could still field a team in a BCS Bowl game, provided that one can go unbeaten, or a damn good one loss team. Having a conference championship game helps, but to be a contender, they may need to drop the Liberty Bowl or move it until on or after January 1 to help give them more of a high profile.
C-USA East
1. Southern Miss-Not only known for being a giant killer and Brett Favre's alma mater, the Golden Eagles enter Larry Fedora's 2nd season as HC, and have a lot of weapons returning-19, the most in the conference. The schedule also favors the Eagles with a late season showdown at East Carolina that could decide the East. The schedule only features 1 potential NC big timer in Kansas, so this could be the year the Golden Eagles make it to the big show-if they stay healthy.
2. East Carolina-Skip Holtz and his Pirates pulled a couple of big upsets, yet faltered down the stretch and found a way to win C-USA. The problems for the Pirates this season may be the defense-they are near last in yards allowed. The offense is in great shape however and it looks like shootouts are going to be plentiful this year.
3. UCF-George O'Leary's team flip flops more than a politician. One year they have a winning season, the next the basement. I'll take the winning season this year, they have a tough Defense and a young offense last year is more veteran this year. Odd numbered years favor the Knights, but with Southern and East Carolina in strong shape, the Knights don't go the Championship game this year.
4. Marhsall-Gone are the days that Chad Pennington hooked up with Randy Moss for big TD passes, and the Thundering Herd being one of the most impressive teams in Div I-A. But those days could soon come back. Mark Snyder is on a warm, if not hot seat this year, but with 16 startes back, the Thundering Herd could break out this season.
5. UAB-Neil Callaway enters year 3 with one of the most starter heavy teams in C-USA, returning all 11 on Offense and 7 on defense. The bad news, well they went 4-8 with this bunch a year ago. The good news is for Callaway year 3 in his offenses have put up big numbers (Georgia and Alabama are proof). This scrappy team could be at .500 or better this year.
6. Memphis-Tommy West may be out if things don't change quickly. While his offenses are exciting, the wins don't show up. The Tigers return 12 starters this year (7 on defense) and the limited offense experience is going to show. Don't be surprised if West is out before the end of the season.
C-USA West
1. Houston-This is year 2 of the Kevin Sumlin era, and the Cougars may just be hte best team you haven't heard of. Even though the defense returns a paltry 4 starters, but have 5 senior starters on that unit, and they are hungry. I am giving the Cougars the edge, despite road trips at UTEP and Tulsa, because this is a very talented team.
2. Tulsa-The Golden Hurricanes can trip up bigger powers than they are in any sport. This year Todd Graham has his hands full, as only 5 starters return on offense, while his defense should carry them this year with 8 back on that side. Big game is Sept 19 when they travel to Norman to face off against Oklahoma.
3. UTEP=Mike Price has done a great job transforming a losing program into a respectable one here in El Paso. 15 starters (8 on offense) coming back is good news for the Miners, but WR ?'s linger on the offense, while the defense has a couple of DB's converted to LB. I think they have the talent to win the division, but that's why they play the games.
4. Tulane-My first shock pick here, as universally Tulane is last. I have a bit more optimisim about the Green Wave because of HC Bob Toledo. He has done a great job recruiting, and has 13 starters, with 7 on offense that includes the QB and RB. The athletes are there for the Greenies, but they still have a way to go.
5. Rice-Often the but of jokes, this has had recent success. The Defense has to carry the Owls this season (9 back) while the offense has only 4 back on a team that went 10-3 last year. The Owls have a lot of growing up to do, but expect a contender in 2010.
6. SMU-June Jones is trying to get the program to the success of the 1980's without the NCAA probations that killed the program later in that decade. The problem last year is that SMU switched from an option oriented attack to the Run and Shoot, and that hurt this team. The defense was average, but being put in bad situations meant short field situations a plenty. While they will be more competitive, don't expect a miracle turnaround in 2009.
C-USA Championship Game
Southern Miss vs Houston
Southern Miss overall champion
C-USA East
1. Southern Miss-Not only known for being a giant killer and Brett Favre's alma mater, the Golden Eagles enter Larry Fedora's 2nd season as HC, and have a lot of weapons returning-19, the most in the conference. The schedule also favors the Eagles with a late season showdown at East Carolina that could decide the East. The schedule only features 1 potential NC big timer in Kansas, so this could be the year the Golden Eagles make it to the big show-if they stay healthy.
2. East Carolina-Skip Holtz and his Pirates pulled a couple of big upsets, yet faltered down the stretch and found a way to win C-USA. The problems for the Pirates this season may be the defense-they are near last in yards allowed. The offense is in great shape however and it looks like shootouts are going to be plentiful this year.
3. UCF-George O'Leary's team flip flops more than a politician. One year they have a winning season, the next the basement. I'll take the winning season this year, they have a tough Defense and a young offense last year is more veteran this year. Odd numbered years favor the Knights, but with Southern and East Carolina in strong shape, the Knights don't go the Championship game this year.
4. Marhsall-Gone are the days that Chad Pennington hooked up with Randy Moss for big TD passes, and the Thundering Herd being one of the most impressive teams in Div I-A. But those days could soon come back. Mark Snyder is on a warm, if not hot seat this year, but with 16 startes back, the Thundering Herd could break out this season.
5. UAB-Neil Callaway enters year 3 with one of the most starter heavy teams in C-USA, returning all 11 on Offense and 7 on defense. The bad news, well they went 4-8 with this bunch a year ago. The good news is for Callaway year 3 in his offenses have put up big numbers (Georgia and Alabama are proof). This scrappy team could be at .500 or better this year.
6. Memphis-Tommy West may be out if things don't change quickly. While his offenses are exciting, the wins don't show up. The Tigers return 12 starters this year (7 on defense) and the limited offense experience is going to show. Don't be surprised if West is out before the end of the season.
C-USA West
1. Houston-This is year 2 of the Kevin Sumlin era, and the Cougars may just be hte best team you haven't heard of. Even though the defense returns a paltry 4 starters, but have 5 senior starters on that unit, and they are hungry. I am giving the Cougars the edge, despite road trips at UTEP and Tulsa, because this is a very talented team.
2. Tulsa-The Golden Hurricanes can trip up bigger powers than they are in any sport. This year Todd Graham has his hands full, as only 5 starters return on offense, while his defense should carry them this year with 8 back on that side. Big game is Sept 19 when they travel to Norman to face off against Oklahoma.
3. UTEP=Mike Price has done a great job transforming a losing program into a respectable one here in El Paso. 15 starters (8 on offense) coming back is good news for the Miners, but WR ?'s linger on the offense, while the defense has a couple of DB's converted to LB. I think they have the talent to win the division, but that's why they play the games.
4. Tulane-My first shock pick here, as universally Tulane is last. I have a bit more optimisim about the Green Wave because of HC Bob Toledo. He has done a great job recruiting, and has 13 starters, with 7 on offense that includes the QB and RB. The athletes are there for the Greenies, but they still have a way to go.
5. Rice-Often the but of jokes, this has had recent success. The Defense has to carry the Owls this season (9 back) while the offense has only 4 back on a team that went 10-3 last year. The Owls have a lot of growing up to do, but expect a contender in 2010.
6. SMU-June Jones is trying to get the program to the success of the 1980's without the NCAA probations that killed the program later in that decade. The problem last year is that SMU switched from an option oriented attack to the Run and Shoot, and that hurt this team. The defense was average, but being put in bad situations meant short field situations a plenty. While they will be more competitive, don't expect a miracle turnaround in 2009.
C-USA Championship Game
Southern Miss vs Houston
Southern Miss overall champion
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