I will evaluate some of the new hires in College Football over the next few weeks, as the season progresses. Here is a list of who has me impressed:
Steve Kragthorpe-Louisville. I called him a rising star last season on LNWDW, and he is going higher now. He may be at the perfect job in Louisville, and with the chance to win a national title-something he could not do at Tulsa.
Randy Shannon-Miami (Fl). He has brought back discipline, or introduced it to them. No names on the back of the jersey's and brings a fresh approach. It seems he and his staff have recruited quite well, and should be in the ACC hunt this season. Hopefully he can bring a breath of fresh air to the program
Butch Davis-North Carolina. He rebuilt Miami, but doing it in Chapel Hill will be tough. However, he is tenacious, and should get the Heels back to where Mack Brown had them. This is going to take a few years, though so be patient.
Now onto ones I have questions about:
Nick Saban-Alabama. While successful at LSU, he struggled at Michigan St, where he had the Big 10 powers Michigan and Ohio St to recruit against. He has Auburn, in state, Georgia in close proximity (Georgia is where some great Bama players have coem from) Tennessee, as well as LSU and Florida. Also a ?-longevity. He has been at no stop longer than 5 years and his outright lie about not wanting the Bama job may hurt him in recruiting. But how an you turn down 4 mill a year? He is on a tight leash, no doubt. But he might be able to pull off what he did at LSU, just sooner.
Mike Dantonio-Michigan St. He was the DC at Ohio St, and did a mediocre job at mediocre Cincinnati. Is he the right man for East Lansing? Maybe not. No coach has done wll since George Perles, and the Spartans have seen Wisconsin and Northweastern go to the Rose Bowl while they have not. If he can bring the discipline i have read about him bringing to the team show up on the field. Maybe.
Todd Graham-Tulsa. Hired by Rice, he brought the Owls to their first Bowl game in over 40 years, then jumped back to Tulsa where he was the DC for a few years. Like Saban, he will be questioned by recruits about his length of stay at Tulsa, and rightfully so. There are about 100 players at Rice that feel the same way.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Improving the BCS Conferences
Here is my 2 cents on the BCS Conferences:
Pac 10-Great scheduling, everyone plays each other. What they need to improve on is getting their own network. Fox Sports is a mediocre cable network at best, and ABC is filled with the other conferences. If they could get the Fox Network to carry their games (They did a decent job this past Bowl season) it could lift this conference in a big way.
Big 10-SCHEDULE OPEN DATES!!!!!!!! Want to know why USC, Florida and the like have whupped you good lately? Your season ends in Mid November. The SEC, Pac 10 and Big 12 end in December. If you schedule 2 open dates, you can have Ohio St v Michigan on Dec 1, the same date as the other guys conference championship games, and the conclusion of the Pac 10 season as well. The chance of a 12th team joining is unlikely.
Big East-Add Notre Dame to football. Yes, they have their own network in NBC, and they are looking to grow. Since ND is in the other sports in the Big East, this could give them a lift. ND played West Virginia for the Title in 1989 (Fiesta Bowl on Jan of that year for the 1988 season). It would be a good rivalry. It might end the Irish playing Michigan, Mich St and maybe USC, but would make the conference interesting
Big 12-From a scheduling standpoint, perfect. Just settle on a permanent home for the Conference Championship Game and you are set.
SEC-Adopt a scheduling component like the Big 12. So what if Alabama and Tennessee are rivals? They are in seperate divisions and can play every other year. The 'permanent rivalries' are total bullshit. How fair is it for Ole Miss to get Vandy, while LSU gets Florida? Or Arkansas gets South Carolina and Auburn gets Georgia? Ditch em!
ACC-Strange to have Florida St and Miami in competing divisions, but it makes sense. Playing the championship game in J'ville is good, but this conference needs to show it can step out on its own.
Notre Dame-Join the Big East already!
Pac 10-Great scheduling, everyone plays each other. What they need to improve on is getting their own network. Fox Sports is a mediocre cable network at best, and ABC is filled with the other conferences. If they could get the Fox Network to carry their games (They did a decent job this past Bowl season) it could lift this conference in a big way.
Big 10-SCHEDULE OPEN DATES!!!!!!!! Want to know why USC, Florida and the like have whupped you good lately? Your season ends in Mid November. The SEC, Pac 10 and Big 12 end in December. If you schedule 2 open dates, you can have Ohio St v Michigan on Dec 1, the same date as the other guys conference championship games, and the conclusion of the Pac 10 season as well. The chance of a 12th team joining is unlikely.
Big East-Add Notre Dame to football. Yes, they have their own network in NBC, and they are looking to grow. Since ND is in the other sports in the Big East, this could give them a lift. ND played West Virginia for the Title in 1989 (Fiesta Bowl on Jan of that year for the 1988 season). It would be a good rivalry. It might end the Irish playing Michigan, Mich St and maybe USC, but would make the conference interesting
Big 12-From a scheduling standpoint, perfect. Just settle on a permanent home for the Conference Championship Game and you are set.
SEC-Adopt a scheduling component like the Big 12. So what if Alabama and Tennessee are rivals? They are in seperate divisions and can play every other year. The 'permanent rivalries' are total bullshit. How fair is it for Ole Miss to get Vandy, while LSU gets Florida? Or Arkansas gets South Carolina and Auburn gets Georgia? Ditch em!
ACC-Strange to have Florida St and Miami in competing divisions, but it makes sense. Playing the championship game in J'ville is good, but this conference needs to show it can step out on its own.
Notre Dame-Join the Big East already!
Football Tomorrow!
Major college football kicks off tomorrow!
LSU vs Miss St is on the tube on ESPN, along with a few others kicking off later and around the same time, but this is the first televised major conference game. (Some Division II schools kicked off last weekend).
LSU vs Miss St is on the tube on ESPN, along with a few others kicking off later and around the same time, but this is the first televised major conference game. (Some Division II schools kicked off last weekend).
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
2007 AFC South Preview
Well, what is to tell, no new coaches here, but the defending Super Bowl Champs are here. In Houston a new era dawns at QB, and in Jacksonville, they want to know if Leftwhich is the right man for the job. In Tennessee, can the Titans pull off what they did a year ago, and can anyone unseat Indy?
4. Jacksonville Jaguars. Someone has to finish last, and it looks like it is the Jags. Now do not get me wrong, they are competitive, but the offesne is the biggest question. Not just QB, but WR as well. They run the ball well, but that is it. If this were an NFC Team, you would talk about them being contenders, but they are in the AFC. BOTTOM LINE-If the offense shows up, it will be a big year for the Jags
PREDICTED FINISH: 6-10
3. Houston Texans. Matt Schaub mania has hit Houston. The QB from Atlanta now has the shot at running his own offense, and Gary Kubiak copuld not be any happier. The Texans seem to be alright on offense, but the defense still worries me. Amobi Okoye needs time to develope, and Mario Williams has a lot to live up to, but DeMeco Ryans is the man on defense, and if his cast plays better, Houston could be thinking playoffs. BOTTOM LINE-if the O-line play improves, and the defense adjusts, this team is going to the playoffs.
PREDICTED FINISH: 8-8
2. Tennessee Titans. Jeff Fischer has a talented "Young" team this season. The defense is good enough to be a major force in the NFL once again, and with Vince Young doing what he did to Colleges in the NFL, look out, here come the Titans. The Titans may not have Travis Henry but so what? They are still a damn good club, and have some playmakers on offense to get things done. It is tight, but they edge out Houston. BOTTOM LINE-if the Titans get a deep threat at WR, think Super Bowl
Predicted Finish: 9-7
1. Indianapolis Colts. Well, the Manning jinx is over, as the Colts won it all last season and might again-if they can stay healthy. But they will have to work their way up to do it. The defense is still a concern, now that Booger McFarland is out for the year, the secondary has a lot of holes to fill. The only hole on offense is RB-Joe Addai is the man now, but depth is needed for the Colts at this position. Despite some shortcomings, this team will still be the one to beat. BOTTOM LINE-if the Colts get together like last year and play as they did in post season, there is no stopping them.
PREDICTED FINISH: 11-5
4. Jacksonville Jaguars. Someone has to finish last, and it looks like it is the Jags. Now do not get me wrong, they are competitive, but the offesne is the biggest question. Not just QB, but WR as well. They run the ball well, but that is it. If this were an NFC Team, you would talk about them being contenders, but they are in the AFC. BOTTOM LINE-If the offense shows up, it will be a big year for the Jags
PREDICTED FINISH: 6-10
3. Houston Texans. Matt Schaub mania has hit Houston. The QB from Atlanta now has the shot at running his own offense, and Gary Kubiak copuld not be any happier. The Texans seem to be alright on offense, but the defense still worries me. Amobi Okoye needs time to develope, and Mario Williams has a lot to live up to, but DeMeco Ryans is the man on defense, and if his cast plays better, Houston could be thinking playoffs. BOTTOM LINE-if the O-line play improves, and the defense adjusts, this team is going to the playoffs.
PREDICTED FINISH: 8-8
2. Tennessee Titans. Jeff Fischer has a talented "Young" team this season. The defense is good enough to be a major force in the NFL once again, and with Vince Young doing what he did to Colleges in the NFL, look out, here come the Titans. The Titans may not have Travis Henry but so what? They are still a damn good club, and have some playmakers on offense to get things done. It is tight, but they edge out Houston. BOTTOM LINE-if the Titans get a deep threat at WR, think Super Bowl
Predicted Finish: 9-7
1. Indianapolis Colts. Well, the Manning jinx is over, as the Colts won it all last season and might again-if they can stay healthy. But they will have to work their way up to do it. The defense is still a concern, now that Booger McFarland is out for the year, the secondary has a lot of holes to fill. The only hole on offense is RB-Joe Addai is the man now, but depth is needed for the Colts at this position. Despite some shortcomings, this team will still be the one to beat. BOTTOM LINE-if the Colts get together like last year and play as they did in post season, there is no stopping them.
PREDICTED FINISH: 11-5
2007 AFC East Preview
Well, this division is going to be interesting. The Patriots are the top dogs, but the Jets are right behind them. The Bills are the best young team, and the Dolphins have one of the best defenses in the NFL.
Who's New
Cam Cameron-Miami Dolphins
4. Miami Dolphins. Cam Cameron has done a questionable job IMO since being named the head man here in Miami. Taking Ted Ginn over Brady Quinn was the first, and then not really securing a weak O-Line is another, but he did get Trent Green in at QB and they signed Joey Porter on Defense, so all is not lost. Add Ronnie Brown to the mix on offense, and a QB in the future in John Beck who was a great draft pick, the future is what the Dolphins can look forward to, but this year, it is last place. BOTTOM LINE-if the defense plays like last year and Trent Green is healthy, the Phins might be above .500, stranger things have happened.
PREDICTED FINISH: 7-9
3. Buffalo Bills. Dick Jauron has surprised me, and the Bills might say the future is now. JP Losman has developed into a decent QB, Lee Evans and Josh Reed look to improve their play at WR, and TE Robert Royal is one of the best you have not heard of, but the big lift comes in the presence of Marshawn Lynch, the new RB. The Bills will have holes to fill on Defense, but the D-Line may be the most improved in the league. BOTTOM LINE-The playoffs are not to far from being a reality.
PREDICTED FINISH: 9-7
2. NY Jets. Thomas Jones comes in off a trade with the Bears, and it is 'Green skies' ahead for the Jets. This is good news, as the Jets had trouble at times getting the ground game going last season. The Jets have a steady WR Corps, and if QB Chad Pennigton stays healthy, this could be another good year for the Jets, and if they were in any other division, they would win it. Sadly, the Patriots are in this one. BOTTOM LINE-if the injuries are kept to a minimum, the Jets just might take this thing.
PREDICTED FINISH: 11-5
1. New England Patriots. Bill Bellichek has the Pats ready to win this thing again, but the Pats did the unthinkable-paid money for big name players. Adalius Thomas, Wes Welker, Donte Stallworth and Randy Moss were signed or traded for. The Pats filled a few holes in the draft, but the only weakness is RB, now that Corey Dillon is out. BOTTOM LINE-if the Pats can find a ground game, they are back in the Super Bowl, but the Jets and the Bills are ready to close in on the Pats Supremacy.
PREDICTED FINISH: 12-4
Who's New
Cam Cameron-Miami Dolphins
4. Miami Dolphins. Cam Cameron has done a questionable job IMO since being named the head man here in Miami. Taking Ted Ginn over Brady Quinn was the first, and then not really securing a weak O-Line is another, but he did get Trent Green in at QB and they signed Joey Porter on Defense, so all is not lost. Add Ronnie Brown to the mix on offense, and a QB in the future in John Beck who was a great draft pick, the future is what the Dolphins can look forward to, but this year, it is last place. BOTTOM LINE-if the defense plays like last year and Trent Green is healthy, the Phins might be above .500, stranger things have happened.
PREDICTED FINISH: 7-9
3. Buffalo Bills. Dick Jauron has surprised me, and the Bills might say the future is now. JP Losman has developed into a decent QB, Lee Evans and Josh Reed look to improve their play at WR, and TE Robert Royal is one of the best you have not heard of, but the big lift comes in the presence of Marshawn Lynch, the new RB. The Bills will have holes to fill on Defense, but the D-Line may be the most improved in the league. BOTTOM LINE-The playoffs are not to far from being a reality.
PREDICTED FINISH: 9-7
2. NY Jets. Thomas Jones comes in off a trade with the Bears, and it is 'Green skies' ahead for the Jets. This is good news, as the Jets had trouble at times getting the ground game going last season. The Jets have a steady WR Corps, and if QB Chad Pennigton stays healthy, this could be another good year for the Jets, and if they were in any other division, they would win it. Sadly, the Patriots are in this one. BOTTOM LINE-if the injuries are kept to a minimum, the Jets just might take this thing.
PREDICTED FINISH: 11-5
1. New England Patriots. Bill Bellichek has the Pats ready to win this thing again, but the Pats did the unthinkable-paid money for big name players. Adalius Thomas, Wes Welker, Donte Stallworth and Randy Moss were signed or traded for. The Pats filled a few holes in the draft, but the only weakness is RB, now that Corey Dillon is out. BOTTOM LINE-if the Pats can find a ground game, they are back in the Super Bowl, but the Jets and the Bills are ready to close in on the Pats Supremacy.
PREDICTED FINISH: 12-4
2007 SEC Preview
Well here we are, the cream of the college football crop. Florida pulled the double dip, winning not only the SEC but National Title as well. In the BCS era, Tennessee, LSU and now Florida have won a national title. Auburn should have in 2004 going unbeaten that year. The West is clear, but it is the East that is not. Anyone can pull it off there, except Vanderbilt (Poor Vandy!). So how will it turn out this year?
Who’s New:
Nick Saban-Alabama
Who’s on the Hot Seat:
Nick Saban-Alabama
Sylvester Croom-Mississippi St
Houston Nutt-Arkansas
Phil Fulmer-Tennessee
East
6. Vanderbilt Commodores. Bobby Johnson has done a yeoman’s job at Vandy. This team has been competitive for the last few seasons, making some fans optimistic-and wanting more. On offense, WR Earl Bennet is the big play man, and QB Chris Nickson should get him the ball. The running game must improve, and having an experienced O-lin should help. The defense has always been good, and a place for NFL talent to develop. Don’t expect a coaching change, Vandy could do well enough to go 6-6, but if they only win a couple of games could Johnson be shown the door.
5. Florida Gators*. Yes, the mighty have fallen. This will be a rebuilding year for the Gators, but that is not a bad thing, really. Tim Tebow gets the nod at QB, along with 4 other starters on offense, highlighted by WR Andre Caldwell, and dual threat Percy Harvin (Triple threat if he lines up at QB). The defense-well you have 1 (not a typo) returning starter. You have players with game experience, but Safety Tony Joiner is the only one with starting experience. The Gators will get everyone’s best this year, but if this team manages more than 7 wins, it will be a miracle.
4. Tennessee Volunteers*. The Vols had chances last year, against Florida and LSU, and came up short. That cost them the East, but the problem this year is the talent that helped them so much a year ago is gone. Only 11 starters are back, so the Vols are young in a few key areas-WR, RB, DT, and Db’s. You need to have some veterans there to be of any use, and expect to win the East. The road schedule-Florida, and Kentucky will be a test of toughness. The Vols might win the East still, but to me, they have too many holes to fill to do that.
3. Kentucky Wildcats*. This was the surprise of the SEC a year ago, and the good news for the Cats are the following: 15 returning starters (the most of any East team), QB Andre Woodson is back, and the schedule is favorable (LSU, Florida and Tennessee are home games). The Cats big road tests are Georgia, Arkansas and S. Carolina, and that is tough to win the East, but the Cats have the best shot they ever have to get it done this year.
2. South Carolina Gamecocks*. Steve Spurrier is in his 3rd year with the Gamecocks, and there should be noticeable improvement. QB Blake Mitchell seems to have matured since last year, but gone is Sydney Rice, the best WR threat the Gamecocks had. The O-line is a question mark, and that could be a problem. On defense, the Gamecocks have 7 starters back, but younger players are pushing for playing time. I would not be surprised if they win the East-but road trips to Arkansas, LSU, Georgia, and Tennessee will be hard for them to get it done this year.
1. Georgia Bulldogs*. QB Matthew Stafford could write the novel ‘A tale of 2 seasons’. His first half was horrible, then he became the QB for the rest of the year, he was nothing short of spectacular. He is clearly the top guy for the Dawgs this year. The Georgia D is a HUGE concern, but should have enough gas in the tank to do well this year. Alabama and Tennessee are the only road games to worry about, and the big games are art home, so much like Florida last season, the Georgia Bulldogs have the schedule favorable to win the East.
West
6. Mississippi St Bulldogs. Sylvester Croom’s job is in jeopardy, but this is his best team, by far. The scheduling folks at ESPN are making them the first game of the year once again-Aug 30 vs LSU. The Bulldogs offense has only 1 question: Who will be the starting RB? But the defense, well, that is another story entirely. The Bulldogs have moved some players aroud, and to me the staff is not convinced they will be effective this year. But if State can hang with LSU in the opener, this team may have something in them to have a good year.
5. Ole Miss Rebels. Ed Orgeron has really recruited well at Ole Miss. But for the Rebels to end a 44 year drought since their last SEC title, they need to have a ton of things happen, blowing a 2 touchdown lead against LSU was a sore blow last year, but it showed how well this team can be. The Rebels defense has a HUGE question mark-only 4 players arte back. But the Rebels offense should be good, RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis is back to shoulder the load, but the QB race is wide open b/t Brent Schaefer and Seth Adams, with Adams coming out on top after Spring ball. If Ole Miss can surprise some teams, which is likely, then they can move up, but the reality is last year’s team was much better, and this is another wash year.
4. Arkansas Razorbacks. Houston Nutt had a soap opera drama last year. Long and short of it-during the LSU game and the Capital One Bowl, he was texting a local reporter with whom he allegedly had an affair with. Then, his OC Gus Malzahn left for Tulsa, and super freshman Mitch Mustain, and some of his high school teammates transferred (Mustain is the heir to John David Booty at USC). This sounds like an episode of the Young and the Restless, but this is a major college football program. The good news is the offense still has RB’s Felix Jones and Derren McFadden, but the QB is still Casey Dick. New offensive coordinator David Lee must find a way to get the passing game going. On defense, the Hogs have too many ?’s, but should be competitive, despite the departures of the top players to the NFL. A bowl game is possible, though not very likely.
3. Alabama Crimson Tide*. Nick Saban returns to the SEC, where he made a big mark at LSU, and hopes to bring to Bama. The problem is, the expectations may be too much for him to overcome. First, he is getting paid $4 million a year to coach, next, over 92,000 people attended the Spring Game and third, the only success Bama has had since Bear left could not get the Bama faithful to lay off. Business wise-Nick Saban fits the SEC better than Rich Rodriguez would have. Major Applewhite is the new OC, Kevin Steele the new DC. On offense, John Parker Wilson is back at QB, and should benefit from the new offense, DJ Hall was the big play man for the Tide at WR. Replacing RB Kenneth Darby will be a huge problem, but one to overcome. On defense, the Tide will not be playing the 4-3 Saban used at Michigan St and LSU, but the 3-4 (the same scheme he used with the Dolphins). Alabama should win games they shouldn’t and lose games they should. But unlike his arrival at LSU, Saban is handicapped already. He has another powerhouse school in state in Auburn, as well as having to compete locally with Georgia and Tennessee to boot. He has already recruited against these schools, but he had the state of Louisiana to back him up-something he does not have at Alabama.
2. Auburn Tigers*. Look out, QB Brandon Cox has a chip on his shoulder, and that is bad news for teams who play Auburn this year. Feeling overlooked by the SEC, Cox was named the 3rd team QB in the SEC. The problem is-only 4 starters are back on offense, but Auburn has another weapon-Offensive coordinator Al Borges, who may be, sorry, IS the best OC in the land. The Auburn defense is talented, but has the stigma of breaking apart after the LSU game last year-but look, that was by far the most physically powerful game of last season. Auburn’s problem is the road-Arkansas, LSU, Florida and Georgia are on the road, and that could hurt them in 2007.
1. LSU Tigers*. Finally, LSU has things going for them. Last season, LSU was the only team to have all 4 of their road games against teams ranked in the top 10. If JaMarcus Russell was back, LSU would be everyone’s choice to win the whole thing-but they will not. Here is what the Tigers have-a reliable QB in Matt Flynn who has become the leader on this team. WR Early Doucet will grab the double team, but WR Brandon LaFell returns as does dual threat Trindon Holliday, who may be the fastest player in all off College Football. True Freshman WR Terrance Tolliver has wowed the LSU coaches so far in practice, and do not count out WR Jared Mitchell as well. The RB’s re led by FB/TB Jacob Hester, and RB Keiland Williams who ran wild in the Sugar Bowl, RS Freshman Richard Murphy and Sophomore RB Charles Scott are back, so the loss of RB Alley Broussard should not hurt too much, so new offensive coordinator Gary Crowton should be very happy. On defense, this is the true strength of the team-8 starters are back on a defense that led the country in a few categories last season. Bo Pelini, LSU’s defensive coordinator has done a terrific job, and the only concerns are safety, but the players-Craig Steltz and Curtis Taylor have a lot of playing time-since LSU blew out most of the competition last year. LSU head coach Les Miles has had to earn the trust and support of the LSU faithful-and solidified that on January 3rd this year when Nick Saban took the Bama job, and LSU blasted Notre Dame in the Sugar Bowl. The Tigers only question is the kicking game, and road traps at Kentucky and Alabama; and home traps against Virginia Tech, Auburn and South Carolina, as well as Florida.
2007 SEC Champs-LSU Tigers
Who’s New:
Nick Saban-Alabama
Who’s on the Hot Seat:
Nick Saban-Alabama
Sylvester Croom-Mississippi St
Houston Nutt-Arkansas
Phil Fulmer-Tennessee
East
6. Vanderbilt Commodores. Bobby Johnson has done a yeoman’s job at Vandy. This team has been competitive for the last few seasons, making some fans optimistic-and wanting more. On offense, WR Earl Bennet is the big play man, and QB Chris Nickson should get him the ball. The running game must improve, and having an experienced O-lin should help. The defense has always been good, and a place for NFL talent to develop. Don’t expect a coaching change, Vandy could do well enough to go 6-6, but if they only win a couple of games could Johnson be shown the door.
5. Florida Gators*. Yes, the mighty have fallen. This will be a rebuilding year for the Gators, but that is not a bad thing, really. Tim Tebow gets the nod at QB, along with 4 other starters on offense, highlighted by WR Andre Caldwell, and dual threat Percy Harvin (Triple threat if he lines up at QB). The defense-well you have 1 (not a typo) returning starter. You have players with game experience, but Safety Tony Joiner is the only one with starting experience. The Gators will get everyone’s best this year, but if this team manages more than 7 wins, it will be a miracle.
4. Tennessee Volunteers*. The Vols had chances last year, against Florida and LSU, and came up short. That cost them the East, but the problem this year is the talent that helped them so much a year ago is gone. Only 11 starters are back, so the Vols are young in a few key areas-WR, RB, DT, and Db’s. You need to have some veterans there to be of any use, and expect to win the East. The road schedule-Florida, and Kentucky will be a test of toughness. The Vols might win the East still, but to me, they have too many holes to fill to do that.
3. Kentucky Wildcats*. This was the surprise of the SEC a year ago, and the good news for the Cats are the following: 15 returning starters (the most of any East team), QB Andre Woodson is back, and the schedule is favorable (LSU, Florida and Tennessee are home games). The Cats big road tests are Georgia, Arkansas and S. Carolina, and that is tough to win the East, but the Cats have the best shot they ever have to get it done this year.
2. South Carolina Gamecocks*. Steve Spurrier is in his 3rd year with the Gamecocks, and there should be noticeable improvement. QB Blake Mitchell seems to have matured since last year, but gone is Sydney Rice, the best WR threat the Gamecocks had. The O-line is a question mark, and that could be a problem. On defense, the Gamecocks have 7 starters back, but younger players are pushing for playing time. I would not be surprised if they win the East-but road trips to Arkansas, LSU, Georgia, and Tennessee will be hard for them to get it done this year.
1. Georgia Bulldogs*. QB Matthew Stafford could write the novel ‘A tale of 2 seasons’. His first half was horrible, then he became the QB for the rest of the year, he was nothing short of spectacular. He is clearly the top guy for the Dawgs this year. The Georgia D is a HUGE concern, but should have enough gas in the tank to do well this year. Alabama and Tennessee are the only road games to worry about, and the big games are art home, so much like Florida last season, the Georgia Bulldogs have the schedule favorable to win the East.
West
6. Mississippi St Bulldogs. Sylvester Croom’s job is in jeopardy, but this is his best team, by far. The scheduling folks at ESPN are making them the first game of the year once again-Aug 30 vs LSU. The Bulldogs offense has only 1 question: Who will be the starting RB? But the defense, well, that is another story entirely. The Bulldogs have moved some players aroud, and to me the staff is not convinced they will be effective this year. But if State can hang with LSU in the opener, this team may have something in them to have a good year.
5. Ole Miss Rebels. Ed Orgeron has really recruited well at Ole Miss. But for the Rebels to end a 44 year drought since their last SEC title, they need to have a ton of things happen, blowing a 2 touchdown lead against LSU was a sore blow last year, but it showed how well this team can be. The Rebels defense has a HUGE question mark-only 4 players arte back. But the Rebels offense should be good, RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis is back to shoulder the load, but the QB race is wide open b/t Brent Schaefer and Seth Adams, with Adams coming out on top after Spring ball. If Ole Miss can surprise some teams, which is likely, then they can move up, but the reality is last year’s team was much better, and this is another wash year.
4. Arkansas Razorbacks. Houston Nutt had a soap opera drama last year. Long and short of it-during the LSU game and the Capital One Bowl, he was texting a local reporter with whom he allegedly had an affair with. Then, his OC Gus Malzahn left for Tulsa, and super freshman Mitch Mustain, and some of his high school teammates transferred (Mustain is the heir to John David Booty at USC). This sounds like an episode of the Young and the Restless, but this is a major college football program. The good news is the offense still has RB’s Felix Jones and Derren McFadden, but the QB is still Casey Dick. New offensive coordinator David Lee must find a way to get the passing game going. On defense, the Hogs have too many ?’s, but should be competitive, despite the departures of the top players to the NFL. A bowl game is possible, though not very likely.
3. Alabama Crimson Tide*. Nick Saban returns to the SEC, where he made a big mark at LSU, and hopes to bring to Bama. The problem is, the expectations may be too much for him to overcome. First, he is getting paid $4 million a year to coach, next, over 92,000 people attended the Spring Game and third, the only success Bama has had since Bear left could not get the Bama faithful to lay off. Business wise-Nick Saban fits the SEC better than Rich Rodriguez would have. Major Applewhite is the new OC, Kevin Steele the new DC. On offense, John Parker Wilson is back at QB, and should benefit from the new offense, DJ Hall was the big play man for the Tide at WR. Replacing RB Kenneth Darby will be a huge problem, but one to overcome. On defense, the Tide will not be playing the 4-3 Saban used at Michigan St and LSU, but the 3-4 (the same scheme he used with the Dolphins). Alabama should win games they shouldn’t and lose games they should. But unlike his arrival at LSU, Saban is handicapped already. He has another powerhouse school in state in Auburn, as well as having to compete locally with Georgia and Tennessee to boot. He has already recruited against these schools, but he had the state of Louisiana to back him up-something he does not have at Alabama.
2. Auburn Tigers*. Look out, QB Brandon Cox has a chip on his shoulder, and that is bad news for teams who play Auburn this year. Feeling overlooked by the SEC, Cox was named the 3rd team QB in the SEC. The problem is-only 4 starters are back on offense, but Auburn has another weapon-Offensive coordinator Al Borges, who may be, sorry, IS the best OC in the land. The Auburn defense is talented, but has the stigma of breaking apart after the LSU game last year-but look, that was by far the most physically powerful game of last season. Auburn’s problem is the road-Arkansas, LSU, Florida and Georgia are on the road, and that could hurt them in 2007.
1. LSU Tigers*. Finally, LSU has things going for them. Last season, LSU was the only team to have all 4 of their road games against teams ranked in the top 10. If JaMarcus Russell was back, LSU would be everyone’s choice to win the whole thing-but they will not. Here is what the Tigers have-a reliable QB in Matt Flynn who has become the leader on this team. WR Early Doucet will grab the double team, but WR Brandon LaFell returns as does dual threat Trindon Holliday, who may be the fastest player in all off College Football. True Freshman WR Terrance Tolliver has wowed the LSU coaches so far in practice, and do not count out WR Jared Mitchell as well. The RB’s re led by FB/TB Jacob Hester, and RB Keiland Williams who ran wild in the Sugar Bowl, RS Freshman Richard Murphy and Sophomore RB Charles Scott are back, so the loss of RB Alley Broussard should not hurt too much, so new offensive coordinator Gary Crowton should be very happy. On defense, this is the true strength of the team-8 starters are back on a defense that led the country in a few categories last season. Bo Pelini, LSU’s defensive coordinator has done a terrific job, and the only concerns are safety, but the players-Craig Steltz and Curtis Taylor have a lot of playing time-since LSU blew out most of the competition last year. LSU head coach Les Miles has had to earn the trust and support of the LSU faithful-and solidified that on January 3rd this year when Nick Saban took the Bama job, and LSU blasted Notre Dame in the Sugar Bowl. The Tigers only question is the kicking game, and road traps at Kentucky and Alabama; and home traps against Virginia Tech, Auburn and South Carolina, as well as Florida.
2007 SEC Champs-LSU Tigers
2007 Big 10 Preview
To me, the Big 10 was on the same par with the SEC. It still is, the Conferences split 1-1 in big bowl games last year. Ohio State was the wire to wire winner here last year before being thumped by Florida in the Title game. The question this year is who will win it this year? Michigan, Wisconsin, Penn St or Ohio St all have chances.
Who’s New
Mark Dantonio-Michigan St
Tim Brewster-Minnesota
Bill Lynch-Indiana
Who’s on the Hot Seat
Bill Lynch-Indiana
Ron Zook-Illinois
Kirk Ferentz-Iowa
11. Minnesota Golden Gophers. New coach Tim Brewster hopes to bring something that Glen Mason failed to do-consistency. To do that, he must find a way to recruit, which is a strong point for him, and not have to play Ohio St or Michigan every year. Well, he should do well landing recruits. The defense will be the strength of this team, while the offense needs some time to develop, but the Cal version of the Spread offense should fill the seats. Expect this team to be big-in 2008.
10. Northwestern Wildcats. Pat Fitzgerald did an admirable job in a difficult circumstance in 2006, even if the record did not show it. Despite going 4-8, this team has some promise, and may finish better than next to last in the conference in 2007, but there are some concerns. Michigan and Ohio St are in consecutive weeks, and the lack of defensive identity-they must use either the 4-3 or 3-4 scheme, not both. If they solve that problem, this could be a special year, since the offense is pretty much set.
9. Michigan St Spartans. This team has still not overcome the collapse against Notre Dame last season, and it cost them the former coaching staff. Mark Dantonio comes in from Cincinnati where he was mediocre at best there. The good news for the Spartans may be the defense-particularly the secondary (surprisingly since the ND meltdown last year). But the Spartans have to replace too many players on offense, particularly the backfield and the O-line to be of any consequence to the Big 10 this year.
8. Illinois Fighting Illini. Ron Zook enters year 3 with optimisim, as well he should. This team really was bad a year ago, but had some close games that saw defeat snatched from the jaws of victory. Juice Williams returns as QB, and despite a low completion percentage gave the Illini the best chance to win. But it is the defense that will make a big difference in 2007. There is depth, and speed to cover the good offenses. If the Illini improve on offense, a bowl game could happen, but 6-6 is good for this team.
7. Indiana Hoosiers*. The death of Terry Hoeppner was sad and tragic. The program was on the way up, and fans were looking forward to football season for a change. Bill Lynch heads the Hoosiers on an interim basis, so the future is murky but the present is clear. QB Kellen Lewis was a surprise, and the WR’s are led by 6’7 (Not a typo) James Hardy. The defense has 8 returning starters, and that too is good. This team is ready to go to a bowl, but if injuries happen at key positions, expect tough times, but that is not likely. The schedule has no Michigan or Ohio St, so a bowl is likely.
6. Purdue Boilermakers*. Joe Tiller saved his job last year by getting Purdue bowl eligible. This team should improve this year as well. The offense needs only to find a RB, and they are set. The defense was pathetic, and now Michigan and Ohio St are on the schedule, so that is a concern. If the Boilermakers improve on D, this is going to be a big year.
5. Iowa Hawkeyes*. Kirk Ferentz has done a lot of good at Iowa (winning the conference in 2002, last second win vs LSU in Cap One Bowl) and some bad (0-11 his first season). But Iowa has been well, mediocre. For some reason, Kirk Ferentz gets NFL offers, and some college offers, but stays (good for him), but lately you have to wonder if the time is right for him to leave. Iowa has underachieved, and if they do this year, the boo-birds will be out. On offense, Jake Christenson replaces Drew Tate at QB, and that is the only offensive concern. The defense is solid, but the play has been a problem. If Iowa wants back in on top, they have to improve here.
4. Ohio State Buckeyes*. Last season, the Buckeyes had the world in their hands-until Florida blasted them in the National Championship Game. Now, head coach Jim Tressel must start from scratch, so to speak. On offense, the leading passer, receiver and rusher are gone. On defense, the D-line and secondary are unclear. This would be difficult for some teams, but not the Buckeyes. Smash mouth football will return this year, but who to play at RB? The D-line and secondary are new, but the Sweater Vest is at his prime here. Expect the Buckeyes to field a good team, and be the top team in 2008, this year is just a hiccup.
3. Penn State Nittany Lions*. If Penn State is to win the Big 10, QB Anthony Morelli must have a huge senior season. If he does, the Lions should be in the BCS hunt. Armed with 8 returning starters for Penn St, the only question is RB. The defense is another question, but for all the years Joe Paterno has been there, he is in a familiar situation, and always seems to exceed expectations, so if they are in a BCS Bowl, don’t be surprised.
2. Wisconsin Badgers*. Normally, if you go 11-1, you go to a BCS Bowl. But since Michigan went 11-1, and Ohio St 12-0 last year, the Badgers had to settle for the Capital One Bowl, where they beat Arkansas. But the Badgers must find a new QB, and have to plug a few holes on defense, but the big game is Nov 10 when Michigan comes to town. This is a team that should have gone to a BCS Bowl, and that is a mighty big chip to carry on their shoulders. This team is hungry, but hungry enough to win the Big 10?
1. Michigan Wolverines*. If a team returns 10 starters, you assume they are rebuilding. Well at Michigan, you just reload. The big 3 on offense are back (QB Chad Henne, RB Mike Hart, and WR Mario Manningham). The Defense is a question mark; but picking the talent to replace lost players is there. This could be a big year for the Wolverines. The only worries are the final 2 games-at Wisconsin and hosting Ohio State.
Who’s New
Mark Dantonio-Michigan St
Tim Brewster-Minnesota
Bill Lynch-Indiana
Who’s on the Hot Seat
Bill Lynch-Indiana
Ron Zook-Illinois
Kirk Ferentz-Iowa
11. Minnesota Golden Gophers. New coach Tim Brewster hopes to bring something that Glen Mason failed to do-consistency. To do that, he must find a way to recruit, which is a strong point for him, and not have to play Ohio St or Michigan every year. Well, he should do well landing recruits. The defense will be the strength of this team, while the offense needs some time to develop, but the Cal version of the Spread offense should fill the seats. Expect this team to be big-in 2008.
10. Northwestern Wildcats. Pat Fitzgerald did an admirable job in a difficult circumstance in 2006, even if the record did not show it. Despite going 4-8, this team has some promise, and may finish better than next to last in the conference in 2007, but there are some concerns. Michigan and Ohio St are in consecutive weeks, and the lack of defensive identity-they must use either the 4-3 or 3-4 scheme, not both. If they solve that problem, this could be a special year, since the offense is pretty much set.
9. Michigan St Spartans. This team has still not overcome the collapse against Notre Dame last season, and it cost them the former coaching staff. Mark Dantonio comes in from Cincinnati where he was mediocre at best there. The good news for the Spartans may be the defense-particularly the secondary (surprisingly since the ND meltdown last year). But the Spartans have to replace too many players on offense, particularly the backfield and the O-line to be of any consequence to the Big 10 this year.
8. Illinois Fighting Illini. Ron Zook enters year 3 with optimisim, as well he should. This team really was bad a year ago, but had some close games that saw defeat snatched from the jaws of victory. Juice Williams returns as QB, and despite a low completion percentage gave the Illini the best chance to win. But it is the defense that will make a big difference in 2007. There is depth, and speed to cover the good offenses. If the Illini improve on offense, a bowl game could happen, but 6-6 is good for this team.
7. Indiana Hoosiers*. The death of Terry Hoeppner was sad and tragic. The program was on the way up, and fans were looking forward to football season for a change. Bill Lynch heads the Hoosiers on an interim basis, so the future is murky but the present is clear. QB Kellen Lewis was a surprise, and the WR’s are led by 6’7 (Not a typo) James Hardy. The defense has 8 returning starters, and that too is good. This team is ready to go to a bowl, but if injuries happen at key positions, expect tough times, but that is not likely. The schedule has no Michigan or Ohio St, so a bowl is likely.
6. Purdue Boilermakers*. Joe Tiller saved his job last year by getting Purdue bowl eligible. This team should improve this year as well. The offense needs only to find a RB, and they are set. The defense was pathetic, and now Michigan and Ohio St are on the schedule, so that is a concern. If the Boilermakers improve on D, this is going to be a big year.
5. Iowa Hawkeyes*. Kirk Ferentz has done a lot of good at Iowa (winning the conference in 2002, last second win vs LSU in Cap One Bowl) and some bad (0-11 his first season). But Iowa has been well, mediocre. For some reason, Kirk Ferentz gets NFL offers, and some college offers, but stays (good for him), but lately you have to wonder if the time is right for him to leave. Iowa has underachieved, and if they do this year, the boo-birds will be out. On offense, Jake Christenson replaces Drew Tate at QB, and that is the only offensive concern. The defense is solid, but the play has been a problem. If Iowa wants back in on top, they have to improve here.
4. Ohio State Buckeyes*. Last season, the Buckeyes had the world in their hands-until Florida blasted them in the National Championship Game. Now, head coach Jim Tressel must start from scratch, so to speak. On offense, the leading passer, receiver and rusher are gone. On defense, the D-line and secondary are unclear. This would be difficult for some teams, but not the Buckeyes. Smash mouth football will return this year, but who to play at RB? The D-line and secondary are new, but the Sweater Vest is at his prime here. Expect the Buckeyes to field a good team, and be the top team in 2008, this year is just a hiccup.
3. Penn State Nittany Lions*. If Penn State is to win the Big 10, QB Anthony Morelli must have a huge senior season. If he does, the Lions should be in the BCS hunt. Armed with 8 returning starters for Penn St, the only question is RB. The defense is another question, but for all the years Joe Paterno has been there, he is in a familiar situation, and always seems to exceed expectations, so if they are in a BCS Bowl, don’t be surprised.
2. Wisconsin Badgers*. Normally, if you go 11-1, you go to a BCS Bowl. But since Michigan went 11-1, and Ohio St 12-0 last year, the Badgers had to settle for the Capital One Bowl, where they beat Arkansas. But the Badgers must find a new QB, and have to plug a few holes on defense, but the big game is Nov 10 when Michigan comes to town. This is a team that should have gone to a BCS Bowl, and that is a mighty big chip to carry on their shoulders. This team is hungry, but hungry enough to win the Big 10?
1. Michigan Wolverines*. If a team returns 10 starters, you assume they are rebuilding. Well at Michigan, you just reload. The big 3 on offense are back (QB Chad Henne, RB Mike Hart, and WR Mario Manningham). The Defense is a question mark; but picking the talent to replace lost players is there. This could be a big year for the Wolverines. The only worries are the final 2 games-at Wisconsin and hosting Ohio State.
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