Preseason 2011

Written and Compiled by: Karl Finkbeiner

My Preseason Top 25
1. Alabama 2. Stanford 3. Oklahoma 4. Oregon 5. Boise State 6. LSU 7. Florida State 8. Texas A&M 9. South Carolina 10. Wisconsin 11. Oklahoma State 12. Arkansas 13. Michigan State 14. Nebraska 15. Virginia Tech 16. Mississippi State 17. TCU 18. Ohio State 19. West Virginia 20. Notre Dame 21. BYU 22. Florida 23. Arizona State 24. USC 25. Texas

Best of the Rest

Miami (Fl.) Penn State Clemson Georgia

Heisman Trophy Frontrunners

1. Kellen Moore- Last season, Moore finished fourth in the Heisman voting but could have finished higher if his Broncos hadn't lost to Nevada near the end of the year. Coming into 2011, he figures to put up the best stats at the quarterback position, which could be enough to give him this coveted award. 2. Lamichael James- This speedster from Oregon is flashy and shifty, the type of running back that is guaranteed to put up ridiculous stats. Regardless of whether or not the Ducks get back to the national championship game, James will be right in the mix for the Heisman Trophy once again. 3. Andrew Luck- Unlike Lamichael James, Luck doesn't need to put up crazy numbers to be considered for this award. What he means to his team speaks for itself, and Andrew Luck's football knowledge puts him one step ahead of everyone else at his position. 4. Trent Richardson- Although Trent's RB partner Mark Ingram won the 2009 Heisman Trophy, many people, including myself, believed that Richardson was the better back of the two. Now, with two years of experience, he is ready to carry the load this year for the Crimson Tide. 5. Denard Robinson- Last year, Robinson showed flashes of Pat White in Rich Rod's spread offense. With a new coach coming in, he will have to adjust his style and become a drop-back passer. No matter what offense Denard is in, he will certainly thrive and be one of college football's most feared athletes.

Heisman Trophy Dark Horses

Justin Blackmon- This wide receiver will be the top player at his position in the entire nation if he can stay healthy and stay out of trouble. Marcus Lattimore- This power back hopes to back up a great freshman campaign with another stellar season for the Gamecocks.
Landry Jones- He will break many more of Sam Bradford's school passing records in 2011.

Potential Biggest Games of 2011

1. Stanford vs. Oregon (Nov. 12)- As it did last year, this game should have national championship implications. The Cardinal will be looking to avenge last season's only loss. This time, Stanford will have home field advantage against the Ducks. 2. Oklahoma vs. Oklahoma State (Dec. 3)- In another episode of this series that has historically been dominated by the Sooners, Oklahoma State has the opportunity to pull off a monumental upset that could put them in the BCS title hunt. 3. Alabama vs. LSU (Nov. 5)- The winner of this game will likely go on to win the SEC West, win the SEC title game, and end up representing the conference in the BCS national championship game. Talk about a lot of hype for just one game. 4. Oklahoma vs. Florida State (Sept. 17)- Last year, Florida State was smashed in Norman by Oklahoma, but this year the Seminoles are the home team. This is a critical revenge match that will have major BCS implications. 5. Oregon vs. LSU (Sept. 3)- These two powerhouses meet in game one of the regular season and will try to establish themselves as legit contenders for the Coach's Trophy. If either team is not playing in midseason form by day one, they may find themselves in trouble for this showdown.

Underrated Games
Texas A&M vs. Arkansas (Oct. 1)- Both teams play this game immediately after a matchup against another top ten team from their own conference. If both win the previous game, this could be an extremely decisive game for the entire country. Boise State vs. Georgia (Sept. 3)- Boise State, for the third straight season, has challenged themselves in their first game, and they could get more national attention for a win in SEC country than they did for the last two season's early triumphs.

Bowl Projections
Bowl
New Mexico Famous Idaho Potato R+L Carriers New Orleans St. Petersburg Poinsettia Las Vegas Hawaii Independence Little Caesars Pizza Belk Military Holiday Champs Sports Alamo Armed Forces Pinstripe Music City Insight Texas Sun Kraft Fight Hunger Liberty

Winner
Colorado State Ohio Central Florida Tulsa Air Force TCU Hawai'i San Diego State Illinois North Carolina Navy Washington Clemson Arizona State Notre Dame Pittsburgh NC State Penn State Michigan Miami (Fl.) California Houston

Loser
Fresno State Louisiana Tech Troy Louisville Nevada Oregon State SMU Boston College Northern Illinois Cincinnati Maryland Texas Tech South Florida Texas BYU Kansas State Tennessee Missouri Baylor Arizona Army Connecticut

Chick-fil-A TicketCity Capital One Outback Gator Rose Bowl Game Fiesta Sugar Orange Cotton Compass GoDaddy.com BCS National Championship

Virginia Tech Southern Miss South Carolina Arkansas Ohio State Oregon Oklahoma Boise State Florida State Oklahoma State Auburn Temple Alabama

Florida Iowa Michigan State Nebraska Georgia Wisconsin LSU Texas A&M West Virginia Mississippi State Northwestern FIU Stanford

ALABAMA

CRIMSON

TIDE

SEC
The last five national champions have come from the Southeastern Conference. The SEC has been dominant for years, and it will most likely stay that way for a long time to come. Every team in this conference must play a rigorous schedule with fierce competition week in and week out. This is the reason why the SEC champion regularly gets a slot in the BCS title game. This year, the SEC West appears to be loaded, while the East has only one powerhouse team. Still, even that division is loaded by national standards. Again, an SEC team figures to be a national championship game participant. The question is who it will be. The conference is fairly wide open, and six or seven teams are ranked in the preseason Top 25. For me, the frontrunner is Alabama, but LSU, Arkansas, and South Carolina have a good chance themselves. Mississippi State is another dark horse contender from the SEC West. It will certainly take more than just one key game for each team, because there are plenty of trap games in this conference. The team with the most depth will most likely emerge as the leader of the pack, but right now it's a race that many teams feel like they have a chance to win.

Conference Champion: Alabama

SEC West Projected Standings

1. Alabama- Last season, the defense was the only reason why someone might not have ranked this team as their preseason #1. They came back stacked on offense, and the defense was talented, just inexperienced. But instead of competing for a national championship game, the Crimson Tide failed to even make a BCS bowl game. They were shipped to the Capital One Bowl, where they came out hungry against an 11-1 MSU team and won 49-7. It was clear that the team that played in the Capital One Bowl was a team on a mission. Nick Saban has this Alabama team ready for a comeback season in 2011. Add this determination to one of the nation's best returning defenses, and you get a scary team that nobody will want to face. The Tide have the nation's top secondary led by All-American safeties Mark Barron and Robert Lester as well as the top linebackers with Courney Upshaw, Nico Johnson, and Dont'a Hightower. The linemen are no slouches either, and this is NCAA's best defensive unit. The only question this year is in the passing game. Quarterback Greg McElroy departs as well as wide receiver Julio Jones, giving what appears to be a big blow to the offense. The receiving corps, however, are still deep, and Marquis Maze could emerge as a deep threat. That still leaves a big hole in replacing the efficient starting quarterback. But it's not like Saban doesn't have options. The QB battle has come down to redshirt sophomore A.J. McCarron and redshirt freshman Phillip Sims. Sims has big play capability with both his arm and legs, while McCarron is more of a pro-style quarterback like John Parker Wilson and Greg McElroy. Chances are, the more experienced A.J. McCarron will get the nod for the starting job, and he will be told that his main purpose is to protect the football and keep opposing defenses honest. The quarterback transition, assuming McCarron wins the job, should occur with few ripples. With Trent Richardson, who I thought might have been better than Ingram, running behind an experienced offensive line, the offense should be good enough to support the stellar defense. This determined group is going to be looking for revenge for last year's disappointment and could relive their 2009 glory.

Bowl Prediction: National Championship Game

Alabama's Schedule: Kent St, @Penn St, North Texas, Arkansas, @Florida, Vanderbilt, @Ole Miss, Tennessee, LSU, @Mississippi St, Georgia Southern, Auburn

This should determine the title game. By this time, both teams will have given their quarterbacks game experience as Alabama looks to avenge last year's loss.

2. LSU- There is a reason why Les Miles turned down the offer to return to his alma mater and coach the Michigan Wolverines. When he looks at his team, he sees a group that is ready to return to the national championship and give him his second title as a head coach for the Tigers. That is assuming that the LSU team we saw play in the Cotton Bowl shows up for the entire season. The main piece in that puzzle will be whether QB Jordan Jefferson is ready to step up and take leadership of the offense. His struggles were the reason why this team wasn't able to take the next step last season. When he was at his best in the bowl game, however, everyone saw how potent this offense can be. He seems to have taken control of the team this spring, sensing that he needs to perform or he'll lose the starting position to incoming JUCO transfer Zach Mettenberger. If Jefferson plays well and the offense is clicking with its nine returning starters, this team could put up some serious points this fall. Even with the loss of standout corner Patrick Peterson, this defense, especially the secondary, will be a key helper to the offense. The Tigers return seven starters on this side of the ball. Peterson's partner in crime last year, Morris Claiborne now has the opportunity to emerge as a CB that no wide receiver wants to be matched up against. This year, it shouldn't take much luck or magic for LSU to play a key role in the SEC and national championship races despite having the nation's toughest schedule. Bowl Prediction: Fiesta Bowl Schedule: Oregon, N.W. St, @Mississippi St, @West Virginia, Kentucky, Florida, @Tennessee, Auburn, @Alabama, West. Kentucky, @Ole Miss, Arkansas Winning this game is LSU's road to the BCS national championship game. The Tigers beat 'Bama at home last year, and will try to make it two in a row.

3. Arkansas- The 2010 Razorback squad possessed one of the most potent offenses in the entire country. Their ability to score points outweighed their defensive vulnerability, and the team posted a 10-2 regular season record before a Sugar Bowl loss to Ohio State. This year, the defense should be improved, and the offense returns most of its playmakers. When looking at this roster, there is only one thing missing. The missing piece is QB Ryan Mallet, who left after two years at Arkansas as the school's all time leading passer. His replacement is redshirt junior Tyler Wilson, who enters his fourth year on the team. He put up impressive numbers when replacing Mallet in a loss against Arkansas, but did struggle with late interceptions in that game. He could really come into his own as a passer this year, but needs to improve on his decision making ability. If he does, he will be able to take advantage of the nation's number one receiving corps that has four strong receivers. With the departure of AJ Green and Julio Jones, Greg Childs could become the most potent WR in the SEC and maybe even the country. The loss of tight end DJ Williams does leave a hole, but he is not irreplaceable. The one thing that sticks out about this Razorback team is balance, something they didn't have in past years. No longer will Bobby Petrino have to rely on ridiculous numbers from his quarterback to win his games. In 2011, Tyler Wilson will team up with running back Knile Davis, a speedy, tough runner who scampered for well over 1,000 yards last season. He played a key role in Arkansas' late season run, and will be a great compliment to the passing game. The defense should also be reliable. The offense will still put up big numbers, but they won't have as much pressure on them as they did in past years with a below average defense. Even with the loss of Ryan Mallet, the 2011 Arkansas Razorbacks could be better than last year's bunch. Bowl Prediction: Outback Bowl Schedule: Missouri St, New Mexico, Troy, @Alabama, Texas A&M, Auburn, @Mississippi, @Vanderbilt, South Carolina, Tennessee, Mississippi St, @LSU A win in Baton Rouge could again send Arkansas to a BCS bowl game.

4. Mississippi State- These Bulldogs far exceeded expectations that I had for them in 2010. Their 8-4 season was capped off by a blow out of Michigan in the Gator Bowl for their ninth win. They return 16 starters from last year's team, and this experience as well as a great head coach and good talent usually leads to success. Whether they can top last year's record is yet to be seen. They do get their three toughest games at home, and an upset in one of those games is not out of the picture. But they could easily slip up during a tricky SEC road schedule, hurting their win-loss differential. One thing this team does have is confidence. Dan Mullen has instilled a toughness in this Bulldog squad that is hard to erase. The players have bought into his plan, and they have the talent to compete as well. Their offense has size up front and runs a physical spread system led by 6'4" 245lbs quarterback Chris Relf. He has the ability to make plays with both his arms and his legs, and his teammates trust him. The defense is also big and physical with just the right touch of athleticism to make plays in space. With experience, talent, and mental toughness, Mississippi State is not a team anyone in the SEC will look at as a walk in the park. If they are overlooked, the Bulldogs could make some noise and shake up the SEC West standings. Bowl Prediction: Cotton Bowl Schedule: @Memphis, @Auburn, LSU, Louisiana Tech, @Georgia, @UAB, South Carolina, @Kentucky, UT Martin, Alabama, @Arkansas, Mississippi An upset in this home game would help the Bulldogs improve their SEC status and the quality of their bowl game.

5. Auburn- Last year, the Tigers shocked the nation by winning the national title behind surprise star Cameron Newton. This year, Newton leaves as well as DT Nick Fairley and others, leaving just three returning starters on each side of the ball. Michael Dyer, and explosive young running back, is one of those three returning offensive players. He has the potential to emerge as one of the SEC's top RBs and will carry this offense in 2011. The defense is also depleted, and doesn't return any of its key members from last season. Despite the inexperience

on both sides of the ball, there is still hope for the Auburn faithful. This hope lies in good recruiting classes in the past and this year as well as a great coaching staff. This year's recruiting class was one of the best in the country, and this team will be young and hungry. Head coach Gene Chizik won a national title in his second year at Auburn, and offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn has a good name in college football after last year's offensive success. This team should still be good based on talent, but the Tigers won't have the experience or offensive firepower to come close to the 2010 squad's achievements. Bowl Prediction: Compass Bowl Schedule: Utah St, Mississippi St, @Clemson, Florida Atlantic, @South Carolina, @Arkansas, Florida, @LSU, Mississippi, @Georgia, Samford, Alabama This early season matchup could be crucial to Auburn's success and might determine whether or not the Tigers will go back to the postseason.

6. Mississippi- Two years ago the expectations were very high for this team coming off a Cotton Bowl double digit victory over 11-1 Texas Tech. Jevan Snead returned to a seemingly loaded roster, but they fell to a mediocre 9-4 record due to inconsistence quarterback play. Last year was a rebuilding year for the rebels and they failed to reach the 6-6 mark, leaving them out of the postseason. They do, however, bring back nine offensive starters from last year, including a dangerous RB tandem led by Brandon Bolden. The only piece missing from last season on that side of the ball is playmaking quarterback Jeremiah Masoli, who departs after only one season with the team. The offense will rely heavily on the running game, and this could be a very unbalanced attack. The defense will be vulnerable once again as they only bring back four of last season's starters. Bowl Prediction: NONE Schedule: BYU, Southern Illinois, @Vanderbilt, Georgia, @Fresno State, Alabama, Arkansas, @Auburn, @Kentucky, Louisiana Tech, LSU, @Mississippi St Both teams will be fighting for a bowl game in this November matchup.

SEC East Projected Standings

1. South Carolina- The Gamecocks overachieved according to my standards for them last season. They finished the regular season with an impressive 9-3 record, but then were demolished by Auburn in the SEC title game and lost to Florida State in the Chick-fil-A bowl. Despite the late season collapse, the 2010 South Carolina was an overall success. Freshman running back Marcus Lattimore proved why he was a top high school prospect with an excellent year, and Alshon Jeffery came into his own at the wide receiver position. This year, Steve Spurrier gets most of his offense back and returns 13 total starters. An important addition to the defense will be Jadeveon Clowney, an agile defense end who was considered by many to be the number one overall high school prospect. The one question mark is at the quarterback position, where Stephen Garcia will try to return to the starting lineup after yet another suspension. If he doesn't perform in summer practice, he could easily lose his job to sophomore quarterback Connor Shaw. Either way, SC shouldn't be too concerned about the quarterback position. When looking at the schedule facing this team in 2011, there is no reason to pick against the Gamecocks in the regular season. In fact, they could very well be favored in every game they play, as they managed to avoid both Alabama and LSU out of the SEC West. The nonconference slate in also rather easy, and they play what might be the easiest conference schedule in the whole SEC. That is not to say that there won't be any trap games, however. Three of their four toughest conference games are on the road, and if this team takes the schedule too lightly than they could be upset. Both sides of the ball seem secure, though, and this team could run the table if everything aligns in the right way. Bowl Prediction: Capital One Bowl Schedule: East Carolina, @Georgia, Navy, Vanderbilt, Auburn, Kentucky, @Mississippi St, @Tennessee, @Arkansas, Florida, The Citadel, Clemson This SEC crossover game in Fayetteville will be the biggest obstacle standing in the way of a perfect regular season record for South Carolina.

2. Florida- There is one thing that once again sticks out about the Gators and that is team speed. The ability to outrun opponents was established under the Urban Meyer era, and the recruiting is still pouring in. Despite the coaching transition, the talent that was brought to this program a few years ago is developing to keep Florida in contention. The loss of Tim Tebow, however, may have proved too much for the Gators to handle, as a three headed quarterback system sputtered last year. John Brantley will have to step up this season, and I do think he will improve under new offensive coordinator Charlie Weis in his pro style attack. Jeff Driskel, considered by many to be the top high school QB prospect, could also contribute to the passing game. Chris Rainey, Jeff Demps, and Trey Burton are all quick runners who have shown flashes of talent but have never reached expectations. They will need to step up in order for the Gators to rise back up to national contention. On the defensive side of the ball, Janoris Jenkins was expected to anchor the team from the cornerback position. Now, he is not on the team after being dismissed due to an arrest. The defense will certainly feel his loss, but they have enough talent to be able to step up and still be a successful group under new defensive minded head coach Will Muschamp. Although unproven talent continues to pour into Gainesville, the Gators lost too much over the last few years to be considered a true conference contender this season. Bowl Prediction: Chick-fil-A Bowl Schedule: Florida Atlantic, UAB, Tennessee, @Kentucky, Alabama, @LSU, @Auburn, Georgia, Vanderbilt, @South Carolina, Furman, Florida St This huge rivalry should be the difference between second and third in the SEC East and bragging rights are always on the line when these two teams clash.

3. Georgia- Coming off of an 11-2 season in 2007, Matthew Stafford led a team that was preseason #1 to start 2008. They underachieved, only reaching a 10-3 mark after a Capital One Bowl victory over Michigan State. Ever since then, the Bulldogs have failed to top eight wins, and it has been suspected that Mark Richt's job might be in limbo. He managed to pull off an impressive recruiting class,

however, and Georgia looks to be headed in the right direction. Aaron Murray now has one year of experience under his belt, and he may be the best quarterback in the SEC this season. His development allows for a secure passing game, which is something this team hasn't had since Stafford departed following the 2008 season. AJ Green did leave for the NFL, but the receiving position is still talented and led by junior Javarres King. This strong passing attack will be coupled by a talented two headed running attack. Incoming freshman Isaiah Crowell was one of the top high school running back prospects this winter, and he figures to be named the starter. Right behind him, though, is Caleb King, a strong, talented back who never emerged as a lethal threat despite high expectations. Those two will most likely split carries, and this deep roster will allow both players to get adequate rest. As for the defense, seven starters return to a group that was porous last season, giving up lots of points to big time offenses. They will be tested early in the first two games, as Boise State and South Carolina come calling in back to back weeks. The offense is ready to fire, and if the defense cements, this team could get to a high quality bowl game. Bowl Prediction: Gator Bowl Schedule: Boise St, South Carolina, Coastal Carolina, @Mississippi, Mississippi St, @Tennessee, @Vanderbilt, Florida, N.M. St, Auburn, Kentucky, @Georgia Tech If Georgia doesn't show up to play, they will fall to an 0-2 record. Two early losses would crush this team's confidence and could ruin their whole season.

4. Tennessee- Throughout the Philip Fulmer coaching era, the Volunteers were a football powerhouse. He was fired after the 2008 season, and Tennessee hasn't reached double digit win totals since 2007. In fact, the most they've won in that span was seven games under Lane Kiffin, who left for USC after only one year with the program. Last season was Derek Dooley's first season with the team, and he enters his second this year. Although the talent from years past is no longer in Knoxville, this team still is rich with football players. Tyler Bray emerged as a good quarterback late last season to engineer a four game winning streak that got

Tennessee into a bowl game. He is teamed up with running back Tauren Poole, who also proved to be an effective offensive threat. The defense is led by DT Malik Jackson, a USC transfer, who should become a major disruption factor in opposing backfields. Tennessee will again need a late season rally to make a bowl game, but they do get Vanderbilt and Kentucky in the last two games. Bowl Prediction: Music City Bowl Schedule: Montana, Cincinnati, @Florida, Buffalo, Georgia, LSU, @Alabama, South Carolina, Middle Tennessee, @Arkansas, Vanderbilt, @Kentucky The result of this matchup against the equally matched Bearcats in Week 2 could determine whether or not the Volunteers make a bowl game this season.

5. Kentucky- The Wildcats have been among the SEC's worst football schools fora while, even though the team has made a bowl game in each of the past five seasons. They were ranked as high as #7 in 2007, but soon fell out of the polls and haven't been ranked since. After the 2009 season, head coach Rich Brooks passed the program down to his handpicked coach-in-waiting Joker Phillips. This spring, the Wildcat nation watched as all purpose wide receiver Randall Cobb was picked in the NFL draft. Running back Derrick Locke also left the school, and only six offensive starters return. Two of the noticeable returnees are QB Morgan Newton and OG Larry Warford. The defense does return ten starters, but linebacker Danny Trevathan was the only all conference selection last season. They will need to beat some evenly matched teams and maybe pull an upset, but it is possible that Kentucky can use its sixteen returning starters to return to a bowl game for the sixth straight year. Bowl Prediction: NONE Schedule: WKU, Central Michigan, Louisville, Florida, @LSU, @South Carolina, Jacksonville St, Mississippi St, Mississippi, @Vanderbilt, @Georgia, Tennessee The Wildcats will probably have to beat their arch rivals to make a bowl game.

6. Vanderbilt- For years, when analysts are guessing the records of SEC teams, they look at Vanderbilt as an automatic win. In the past twenty five years, the Commodores have made only one bowl game, and did so with a 6-6 record. Not much figures to change this season, as Vanderbilt will continue to get beaten around week in and week out in the brutal SEC. They will try out their third head coach in the past three seasons. James Franklin, the new head coach, spent the past three seasons as Maryland's offensive coordinator. He inherits a group that returns a total of 19 starters, including all 11 on offense. Those starters are the same ones that posted a 2-10 record last season, though, so there shouldn't be much reason for excitement for Vanderbilt fans in Franklin's first year as head coach. Bowl Prediction: NONE Schedule: Elon, Connecticut, Mississippi, @South Carolina, @Alabama, Georgia, Army, Arkansas, @Florida, Kentucky, @Tennessee, @Wake Forest This is one of a few games in which Vanderbilt has the chance to pull out a win.

SEC Teams
Alabama Crimson Tide LSU Tigers South Carolina Gamecocks Arkansas Razorbacks Mississippi State Bulldogs Florida Gators Georgia Bulldogs Auburn Tigers Tennessee Volunteers Kentucky Wildcats Mississippi Rebels Vanderbilt Commodores Up Up Up Same Same Same Up Down Same Same Same Same

Big 12
Last summer, it appeared as if the Big 12 conference was going to be wiped out of existence by Big 10 and Pac 10 expansion. The conference stayed together, but now must go forward with only ten teams. Many seemed to think that the new format wouldn't last very long. Now, in their first season without Nebraska and Colorado, the Big 12 is a strong as ever. They provide three teams in my preseason top ten, and there are at least four other solid teams, and should send eight teams to a bowl game. The competition will be fierce, and because there is no conference championship game, each team will play every other team in the conference. This way, no team will have an easier slate than another, and there can be a fair champion. Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, and Texas A&M have become serious national contenders, and Texas is looking to rebound from their worst season under Mack Brown. If they can get back into contention, then the Big 12 will have four legitimate teams that will be feared across the country.

Big 12 Projected Standings

1. Oklahoma- The Sooners come into 2011 stacked on both sides of the ball, with a total of fifteen returning starters. They are the favorites of many experts across the country to win this year's national championship. For me, however, there are questions. Demarco Murray, the school's all time touchdown leader, leaves after his senior season and is replaced by a true freshman in high rated Brandon Williams. The defense was shaky at times last year, and must cement if the Sooners want to get back to the title game. Other than that, however, I have no reason to doubt Oklahoma. There is no question that they have the talent to go the distance. The question will be the schedule, as they must endure a road test against Florida State and also must play every team in their strong conference. Add that up, and they are pitted against three top ten teams throughout the course of the season. The talent, however, is not short in Norman. Landry Jones returns for what is essentially his third year as a starter, and is less than five hundred yards away from becoming the school's all time leading passer. He figures to be a Heisman contender throughout the entire season. Ryan Broyles, one of the best receivers in the country last year, declined the opportunity to enter the NFL early. He will be the main target for Jones in his senior season. The offensive line returns all but one of its starters for 2010. The defense is led by Travis Lewis, who is the top linebacker on this team. The linebacker position came into the spring loaded, but was depleted after the tragic death of senior Austin Box. The two cornerbacks are talented and experienced, but the safety position has two new faces. The defensive line will be disruptive, and the defensive as a whole should surrender less points this season than they did in 2010. The Sooners are loaded, and they're a legitimate national title contender. Bowl Prediction: Fiesta Bowl Schedule: Tulsa, @Florida State, Missouri, Ball St, Texas, @Kansas, Texas Tech, @Kansas St, Texas A&M, @Baylor, Iowa St, @Oklahoma St Last year was Oklahoma's first lost to the Aggies in a while, and another loss could cost them the Big 12 conference title.

2. Texas A&M- Last season, the Aggies had high expectations coming off a 6-7 record. They started out 3-0 after beating some weak teams, but then Jerrod Johnson collapsed and interceptions were the cause for the team losing their next three games. Ryan Tannehill then took over at QB and led A&M to a 9-3 record and a Cotton Bowl berth. Despite a 17 point loss to LSU in the bowl game, the team was very promising with Tannehill at the helm, and the bar has been raised very high in College Station. Eighteen starters return from last year's team, and the only significant loss is linebacker Von Miller. Still, the defense should be strong under second year defensive coordinator Tim DeRuyter. Tony Jerod-Eddie and Garrick Williams lead the charge on that side of the ball, while Sean Porter must fill big shoes in the place of Miller and the secondary returns all four starters from 2010. The offense, however, figures to be the real strength of this team. All but one starter returns from a group that hit their stride midseason and took off under the leadership of a new quarterback. Tannehill will be throwing to one of the most experienced and talented receiving groups in the nation. Jeff Fuller, who is on his way to becoming the school's all time leading receiver, figures to be one of the best pass catchers in the country. This lethal passing attack is complimented by a dangerous running back tandem of Cyrus Gray and Christine Michael. These two speedy rushers combined for nearly 2,000 yards last season, and they should continue to tear up defenses in 2011. The only thing the Aggies have going against them is their schedule. They face four preseason Top 25 teams including three teams that could be ranked in the Top 10 during some point in the season. Although A&M plays an SEC caliber schedule, they should be fine because they have SEC type talent that will be able to compete with the big boys throughout the course of the season. All the pieces are in place for this to be a special season, and if the starters can stay healthy and the offense clicks like it did in the second half of last season, Texas A&M could get to a BCS bowl game in Mike Sherman's fourth year as head coach.

Bowl Prediction: Sugar Bowl Schedule: SMU, Idaho, Oklahoma St, Arkansas, @Texas Tech, Baylor, @Iowa St, Missouri, @Oklahoma, @Kansas St, Kansas, Texas The Aggies took one from the Sooners last year, and they will need to do it again to get to the top of the newly formatted Big 12 conference.

3. Oklahoma State- Last year, many magazines, including my own, pegged the Cowboys last among the members of the Big 12 South coming off back to back nine win seasons. The major reason for this was the departure of all time leading passer Zac Robinson and first round draft choice wide receiver Dez Bryant as well as an injury to running back Kendall Hunter. Instead of a drop in production, however, the offense set various records in many offensive categories en route to an 11-2 season. Brandon Weeden, a 27 year old quarterback who had spent a few years playing professional baseball, joined the team and set a school record for single season passing yards. His main target was Justin Blackmon, who did more than fill the large shoes left behind by Bryant. Both Weeden and Blackmon return in 2011, and a few more talented receivers compliment Blackmon in what could be the nation's most feared passing attack. Kendall Hunter is now gone, however, so a new face will have to step up at the running back position. Sophomore Joseph Randle is the favorite to seize the starting spot, and he has the potential to be a very good back. The offensive line returns all five starters and should again do a good job protecting the quarterback and opening up running lanes. In total, nine offensive starters return. One offensive person who will be missing is former offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen, who jumped ship to become West Virginia's head coach. Todd Monken replaces Holgorsen in that role, but with all the talent OSU brings back, the loss of the offensive wizard shouldn't have too big of an effect on this team's ability to put up points. You may have noticed that I have been talking about the offense the whole time without a single mention of the defense. This is because, last year, the defense was among the worst in the Big 12. With only five returning defensive starters, they won't be much better this season. The truth is, the Cowboys don't need a good defense to win games. The offense is explosive, and OSU will put up enough points to win a majority of their games in 2011.

Bowl Prediction: Cotton Bowl Schedule: Louisiana, Arizona, @Tulsa, @Texas A&M, Kansas, @Texas, @Missouri, Baylor, Kansas St, @Texas Tech, @Iowa St, Oklahoma The Sooners kept OSU out of a BCS bowl last season, and the Cowboys host their rivals for a second straight season in an effort to get revenge.

4. Texas- There is no reason for me to believe that last year was anything but a fluke. The Longhorns were coming off of back to back one-loss seasons, including a National Championship Game appearance in 2009. They brought back one of the nation's top defenses, but the offense lost seven starters including NCAA wins leader Colt McCoy. Garrett Gilbert, a highly touted sophomore, stepped into the quarterback position with less than a game of experience under his belt. He and the offense were a mess, as he tossed 17 picks and the running game was a disaster. The offensive line didn't help, either, and the defense wasn't all it was hyped up to be. The Longhorns fell to a 5-7 record, their first losing record in the Mack Brown era. But the talent is there, and now Gilbert has a full year of experience to build around. He should be able to learn from his mistakes and fix them, much like McCoy did after throwing 18 interceptions in his sophomore season. The receiving corps is talented but unproven, though, and Gilbert doesn't have the type of receivers that McCoy had to throw to. The top two receivers this year will be Malcolm Williams and Mike Davis, neither of which are stellar. Finally, after all these years, Texas has their first feature back since Jamaal Charles in Malcolm Brown. Brown was the top running back in the 2011 class, and he should make an immediate impact on the field in his freshman season. Although the offense has talent in the skill positions, this group won't click unless the offensive line comes together. They only return two starters on the line, and they need to improve for the offense to show signs of life. The defense, on the other hand, brings back six starters, but losses some of its top playmakers. There is no doubt that the Longhorns will be much better than they were last season, but they probably won't get back to a double digit win total for another year. Bowl Prediction: Alamo Bowl Schedule: Rice, BYU, @UCLA, @Iowa St, Oklahoma, Oklahoma St, Kansas, Texas Tech, @Missouri, Kansas St, @Texas A&M, @Baylor Both teams are coming off of disappointing seasons and will need a win here to build confidence and prove themselves once again.

5. Missouri- If it hadn't been for a heartbreaking loss in the Big 12 title game, the Tigers would have played for the national championship in 2007. They underachieved in '08, and then had to replace much of their star-studded lineup including quarterback Chase Daniel. Last year, in Blaine Gabbert's second season as a starter, he led Mizzou to a ten win season. Now, for just the fourth time in a decade, there will be a turnover at the quarterback position. The new QB figures to be sophomore James Franklin, who saw some action in the Wildcat formation last season. He will be throwing to an experienced receiving corps that includes one of the nation's best tight ends in Michael Egnew. If Franklin can get the ball into the hands of these playmakers, this offense will click like it has for the past several years. The running back position has never been sturdy in Columbia, and that trend will continue as De'Vion Moore figures to be this team's leading rusher this fall. The offensive line returns pretty much intact, and if Gary Pinkel can pull off yet another seamless quarterback transition, Mizzou's offense won't suffer any setbacks from last year. The defense, on the other hand, returns six starters and should be improved from last season. Sheldon Richardson comes in as a junior college transfer and should help out the D-line, while developed players like Brad Madison and Zaviar Gooden look to establish themselves. This defense should come together well as a unit, and they should be one of the top defensive groups in the Big 12. Combine the two sides of the ball and you get fifteen quality returning starters. If the quarterback situation gets straightened out quickly, the Tigers shouldn't experience much of a setback from last year's successful season. Bowl Prediction: Insight Bowl Schedule: Miami (Oh.), @Arizona St, Western Illinois, @Oklahoma, @Kansas St, Iowa St, Oklahoma St, @Texas A&M, @Baylor, Texas, Texas Tech, Kansas Missouri draws Texas toward the end of a tough schedule, and a win here could give them new life as well as improve the quality of their bowl game.

6. Texas Tech- The Red Raiders have backed up their 11 win season in 2008 with two more successful seasons under the leadership of QB Taylor Potts. Now, he is gone, leaving 2nd year head coach Tommy Tuberville with an inexperienced quarterback to work with. Seth Doege, a junior, is the frontrunner to take over offensive coordinator Neal Brown's new zone read option attack. Traditionally, Texas Tech has been known for their ability to throw the football with great success. This might be one of the first seasons in a while in which TT will not be among the Big 12's leaders in most passing categories. Eric Stephens, who takes over the starting running back position with the departure of Baron Batch. The two split carries in 2010, but Batch was the main back. This season, Stephens should carry much of the load, and should put up good numbers as the running game becomes more important with a new quarterback at the helm. He also gets the benefit of running behind an experienced offensive line. Meanwhile, the defense, which has never been great, will once again be the weak link of this team. The do return seven starters on that side of the ball, but the offense will ultimately still have to put up points for this team to win games. With an offense that is still good, the Red Raiders will make a bowl game in Tuberville's 2nd year. Bowl Prediction: Holiday Bowl Schedule: Texas St, @New Mexico, Nevada, @Kansas, Texas A&M, Kansas St, @Oklahoma, Iowa St, @Texas, Oklahoma St, @Missouri, Baylor This home matchup is wedged between TT's two toughest games, and it is a must win if the Red Raiders want to establish midseason confidence.

7. Baylor- The Bears were the bottom feeders of the Big 12 South for years. Until last year, they hadn't made a bowl game since 1994. That streak was broken last season with sophomore QB Robert Griffin III at the helm. He enters his junior year in the same category as Denard Robinson. His dual threat capabilities are amazing, and he has the ability to carry his team. The receiving corps come back intact, and the passing game should be good. Jarred Salubi replaces Jay Finley at running back, so the running game could take a slight step back. The offensive

line is good, though, and Griffin will also carry some of the rushing load. Salubi will soon adapt to the system and learn to be an efficient runner, and their offense should be clicking by midseason. The defense only returns five starters, and they won't be that great of a group. They'll fit in with the rest of the mediocre defenses in the conference. The Bears should be able to put up enough points to win six games, though. Under the lead of Griffin, Baylor should make it back to a bowl game despite a very tough schedule. Bowl Prediction: The Meineke Car Care Bowl of Texas Schedule: TCU, Stephen F Austin, Rice, @Kansas St, Iowa St, @Texas A&M, @Oklahoma St, Missouri, @Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas Tech, Texas This game, which will be played at a neutral site in Arlington, is a must win for Baylor, as a lost in this winnable game could cost them a trip to a bowl game.

8. Kansas State- Bill Snyder resurrected this team from shambles and had a great run of seventeen years at KSU before stepping down after the 2005 season. The Wildcats then fell back to the bottom of the Big 12 North before Snyder returned in 2009. He has led this team to back to back non-losing seasons, and they should make it a third this year. Over the past two years, running back Daniel Thomas has carried this team. He is now gone, but the running game shouldn't take too much of a hit. Bryce Brown, a transfer from Tennessee who was the top RB prospect last year, will be the starting tailback in this system after sitting out one season. The passing game should be improved. Justin Tuggle replaces Carson Coffman, but he should be better than Coffman. The junior college transfer is big and mobile and comes from the same junior college as Cam Newton. With a more experienced receiving corps, the offense should improve. The defense, with the addition of middle linebacker Arthur Brown, a Miami (Fl.) transfer, shouldn't give up as many points in single games as they did last year against several teams including Nebraska. Cornerback David Garrett will lead an experienced secondary. Overall, this team is improved, and the Wildcats should get back to the postseason if they win the close games.

Bowl Prediction: Pinstripe Bowl KSU's Schedule: Eastern Kentucky, Kent St, @Miami (Fl.), Baylor, Missouri, @Texas Tech, @Kansas, Oklahoma, @Oklahoma St, Texas A&M, @Texas, Iowa St The Wildcats will need a win here against an evenly matched team to avoid a losing skid and the ensure a shot at another bowl appearance.

9. Kansas- Just two years removed from an Orange Bowl victory, head coach Mark Mangino was fired following abusive charges and a five win season. Last season, Turner Gill stepped into a program in shambles. A new quarterback replaced Todd Reesing, and they stumbled to a 3-9 record. Now, Gill, who has previously turned around Buffalo's football program, is faced with the tall task of reviving the Jayhawks. The offense should be better this year, with a decent freshman quarterback in Brock Berglund and an slightly experienced RB in sophomore James Sims. The receivers are depleted, and the O-line losses two starters, though, and this will once again be one of the Big 12's worst offenses. The defense returns eight starters, none of which were mentioned for all conference honors. The experience always helps, though, and Kansas should show improvement on that side of the ball. Things won't be easy in Gill's second year as head coach, though, as the schedule won't allow for much success for the Jayhawks in 2011. Bowl Prediction: NONE
Schedule: McNeese St, Northern Illinois, @Georgia Tech, Texas Tech, @Oklahoma St, Oklahoma, Kansas St, @Texas, @Iowa St, Baylor, @Texas A&M, Missouri

A couple early wins would help Kansas improve, and this is a winnable game early that the Jayhawks will have to take advantage of.

10. Iowa State- In Paul Rhodes' first two seasons, the Cyclones have a combined record of 12-13, only one game below .500. That total is much better than the 519 two year record under previous coach Gene Chizik, so Iowa State is showing positive signs. They returns a decent amount of starters, with 12 total coming back from last season. The defense returns seven and should show sights of life, but the offense only brings back five starters. The QB and running back positions break in new faces, and the offense could see a dip in performance from the past couple years. The schedule doesn't help the Cyclones in their quest to dig out wins, either. They face both Iowa and Connecticut early in non conference, and the Big 12 slate could drain their confidence as the year progresses. They offense will struggle with the loss of 2010 quarterback Austin Arnaud, and Iowa State won't match last year's 5 win total. Bowl Prediction: NONE Schedule: Northern Iowa, Iowa, @Connecticut, Texas, @Baylor, @Missouri, Texas A&M, @Texas Tech, Kansas, Oklahoma St, @Oklahoma, @Kansas St Unfortunately, by this time in the year when they play this winnable game, ISU may have no confidence left to fight for a win against the Jayhawks.

Big 12 Teams
Oklahoma Sooners Texas A&M Aggies Oklahoma State Cowboys Texas Longhorns Missouri Tigers Texas Tech Red Raiders Baylor Bears Kansas State Wildcats Kansas Jayhawks Iowa State Cyclones Up Up Same Up Down Same Same Same Same Down

Big Ten
After a winning bowl record in the 2009 postseason, the Big Ten was projected as one of the top conferences last season. Ohio State, Wisconsin, and Michigan State tied for the conference title at 11-1, but the conference as a whole underachieved, as Iowa and Penn State fell short of expectations and the conference finished with a 3-5 bowl record. That included a combined 0-5 record on New Year's Day. This year, Nebraska will compete in the Big 10 for the first time, and their addition allows for twelve teams and a conference title game. They will be a member of the Legends Division, while the other division will be called the Leaders Division. As of this point, the conference is wide open. There are a few ranked teams in each division, and then a couple of other decent teams that could make noise. The off-field issues at Ohio State continue to get worse, and the rest of the conference is finally catching up to the Buckeyes. Coming into 2011, I will peg Wisconsin as the favorite to win the Big Ten. Conference Champion: Wisconsin

Big Ten Leaders Projected Standings

1. Wisconsin- The Badgers are coming off of their first BCS bowl under Brett Bielema, and now they are looking to make it two straight. That seemed like a tall task earlier this offseason before Ohio State fell apart off the field. At that point, Wisconsin also had no established quarterback to replace Big Ten pass efficiency leader Scott Tolzien. They also had questions on the offensive line, as two starters must be replaced. This team always reloads well up front, though, and so that shouldn't be an issue. The defense losses five starters from last year's physical group, including first round draft pick JJ Watt. The physical mentality is still in place, however, and free safety Aaron Henry will lead a stingy group. Another small question was the receiving corps, which lost Isaac Anderson as well as tight end Lance Kendricks. Nick Toon does return, though, and Jake Byrne should come into his own and carry on the tradition of great tight ends in Madison. The running game was never a question, as Zach Brown teams up with possible All-Americans Montee Ball and James White to form a three headed attack that could be the best in the country. Ball has a unique combination of power and speed and reminds me of Trent Richardson of Alabama. James White is an explosive tailback who is most dangerous outside the tackles in open space. But until late May, a big question mark loomed over the QB position, for which a few inexperienced players were battling. That question was erased when NC State transfer Russell Wilson decided to join this team. A versatile threat with both his arms and legs, Wilson doesn't have to sit out a year after being asked to leave the Wolfpack due to a lack of commitment. He was also involved in baseball, but now he joins the Badgers with a greater focus on football. His powerful arm will take some pressure off of the running game, and now Wisconsin has a lethal offense with the ability to both run and pass for big gains. The defense should also be good, and the Badgers are now an important player in the national race as well as the Big Ten competition. Bowl Prediction: Rose Bowl Game

Wisconsin's Schedule: UNLV, Oregon St, N Illinois, South Dakota, Nebraska, Indiana, @Michigan St, @Ohio St, Purdue, @Minnesota, @Illinois, Penn St The Badgers knocked off Ohio State in Camp Randall last year, and they may need a win in the Horseshoe this year to get themselves into the Big Ten title game.

2. Ohio State- It's only been a year since USC got hammered with NCAA sanctions, and now another big program may be following in their path. When five Ohio State players got suspended for the first five games of 2011, I scratched them from my list of National Title contenders. But as the spring has unfolded and the Buckeye organization has lost both Jim Tressel and Terrell Pryor, I no longer consider them the frontrunner to win the Leaders Division of the Big Ten. As more information continues to pour in, OSU is losing more and more ground in this conference. They will meet with the NCAA in August, and a bowl ban as well as scholarship loss could follow. On the field, the remaining four suspended players will be missed, as the first five games include a trip to Miami to take on the 'Canes as well as a home matchup against Michigan State. Experienced quarterback Joe Bauserman will battle incoming freshman Braxton Miller for the starting spot, and redshirt freshman Rod Smith will handle the running back duties while Dan Herron is serving his suspension. DeVier Posey is also one of the punished players, and the wide receiving corps will be depleted without him. Meanwhile, the defense only returns four starters from last season's solid group. They should take a dip in performance with the losses of Cameron Heyward, Brian Rolle, Ross Homan, Chimdi Chekwa, and Jermale Hines. The talent is still there for the Buckeyes to have a good season, but interim head coach Luke Fickell will have his hands full handling the issues and OSU won't win their 7th straight Big Ten title. Bowl Prediction: Gator Bowl Schedule: Akron, Toledo, @Miami (Fl.), Colorado, Michigan St, @Nebraska, @Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, @Purdue, Penn St, @Michigan Last year OSU handled the 'Canes easily, but this year the Buckeyes must travel to Miami with an inexperienced squad and this will be Fickell's first big test.

3. Penn State- After a stretch of five straight seasons with at least nine wins, the Nittany Lions struggled with inexperienced quarterbacks and fell to a 7-6 record. Now, as Joe Pa enters his 46th season at Penn State, 14 starters return to a team that was up and down in 2010. Before this team can think about a Big Ten title, though, they will have to sort out the QB position. Rob Bolden looked impressive early but then struggled down the stretch, and walk on Matt McGloin was the better passer late in the season. There is no doubt that Bolden has shown more potential, but he will have to prove it in the games if he wants to earn and keep the starting spot. I think he will do better in his second season, and the passing game should show signs of improvement. Meanwhile, Evan Royster departs after his senior season as the leading rushing in school history. His replacement will most likely be Silas Reed, who penciled in as the number two back in 2010. He will slide right into the starting role, and the running game shouldn't take a drop in production. Stephfon Green, who never emerged into the successful RB many expected, is now in his senior season and should be ready if Reed is to get injured. Graham Zug, the top receiver last year, is now gone, but Derek Moye will be able to handle the role as the top target in an offense that hasn't had a top notch wide out since 2008. The O-line returns three starters and PSU should be solid up front. The defense, which was pretty good last season, returns seven starters including an intact secondary. The front seven losses four starters but the toughness will still be there on the defensive side of the ball. I don't expect the Nittany Lions to reach a double digit win total this season due to a challenging schedule, but they should definitely improve from last year's seven wins. Bowl Prediction: Insight Bowl Schedule: Indiana St, Alabama, @Temple, Eastern Michigan, @Indiana, Iowa, Purdue, @Northwestern, Illinois, Nebraska, @Ohio St, @Wisconsin
If Penn State wants to prove they are back in Big Ten contention, they will need to win at least one of their last three games. PSU has won two straight vs. the Badgers.

4. Illinois- After a five year bowl drought in Champaign, the Fighting Illini reached the Rose Bowl in 2007 with a 9-3 record. Juice Williams, who was a star during that season, was inconsistent in his final two seasons and Ron Zook fell short of six wins in each of the next two years. Last season, Nathan Scheelhaase showed more consistency as a run-pass threat, and led this team to a 7-6 record. He was assisted in the offensive scheme by second round draft pick Mikel Leshoure, who carried the team with close to 1,000 yards. His presence will be missed, and he is replaced by senior carrier Jason Ford. He will be decent in replacing Leshoure, but he won't match Mikel's stats or Big Ten all conference honors. The offense returns seven starters and should be good but won't match last year's numbers. The defense, though, was the strength of this team in 2010. Six starters return from that group, but those returning do not include Clay Nurse, Corey Liuget, Martez Wilson, and Nate Bussey. The front seven will be depleted, but the secondary comes back strong. Terry Hawthorne, Tavon Wilson, and Trulon Henry star in a group that will be stingy against the pass. Ian Thomas also comes back as the lone returnee at the linebacker position. If the defense comes together, Illinois could find themselves in their second straight bowl game. Bowl Prediction: Little Caesars Bowl Schedule: Arkansas St, South Dakota St, Arizona St, W. Michigan, Northwestern, @Indiana, Ohio St, @Purdue, @Penn St, Michigan, Wisconsin, @Minnesota A win in this conference opener would almost guarantee the Illini a bowl game and give them good ground in the Big Ten early.

5. Purdue- The Boilermakers have failed to reach a bowl game in each of the past three seasons after making it to the postseason in seven of the previous eight years. Injuries have plagued this team throughout that stretch, though, especially last year. Rob Henry steps into the quarterback position and he should lead a much improved passing game that includes a lot of experienced players. He should give this team the most production at this position since Curtis Painter. The running back position has also been shaky thanks to injuries. Ralph Bolden

returns after spending a year recovering from an ACL injury following his 2009 Big Ten all conference honors. The receiving corps comes back mostly intact, as does the offensive line. Meanwhile, the defense returns nine starters and should be improved as a group. Ryan Kerrigan, the first team All-American and first round draft choice at defensive end, is one of the two departing defenders and he will be missed. The other player that is gone is linebacker Jason Werner, but his replacement, Will Lucas, may be better that he was. This team is much improved from last year, but they will probably need a Big Ten upset to reach a bowl game. Bowl Prediction: NONE Schedule: Middle Tennessee, @Rice, SE Missouri St, Notre Dame, Minnesota, @Penn St, Illinois, @Michigan, @Wisconsin, Ohio St, Iowa, @Indiana Purdue will need a win in a game like this to get themselves into a bowl game for the first time since 2007 and the first time under head coach Danny Hope.

6. Indiana- The Hoosiers have spent a long time near the bottom of the Big Ten, and things won't change this year. Quarterback Ben Chapell leaves as the school's second all time career passer behind only Antwaan Randle El. Tanden Doss, a reliable big play threat throughout his three year stint with Indiana, is also gone after declaring for the draft one year early. Damarlo Belcher figures to be the top receiver for new QB Dusty Kiel. Darius Willis should be a decent running back, so at least the weak passing game will be aided with a good running game. On defense, six starters return but most of them are up front, and the secondary will take a step back. This special teams group was brutal in 2010, and they will need to show improvement in order for Indiana to gain any ground in the field position battle. The Hoosiers lose much of their offense, and they won't reach the five wins they amassed last season. Schedule: Ball St, Virginia, South Carolina St, @North Texas, Penn St, Illinois, @Wisconsin, @Iowa, Northwestern, @Ohio St, @Michigan St, Purdue A win here would give this team early confidence.

Big Ten Legends Projected Standings

1. Michigan State- Last year, Michigan State surprised the country by putting together an eleven win season and earning themselves a share of the Big Ten title. They did get hammered by Alabama in the Capital One Bowl, but they finished with an impressive 11-2 record. Twelve starters are back from that team, six on each side of the ball. Kirk Cousins returns as one of the most underrated quarterbacks in the nation, and he could receive first team all conference honors in his senior season. Edwin Baker, the first team Big Ten selection in 2010, also comes back and he could be one of the top RB's in college football this year. The receiving corps comes back pretty much intact, as Mark Dell will be replaced by Keith Nichol, the former quarterback. Tight end Charlie Gantt is gone, and Brian Linthicum will fill in for him. The offensive line, however, which was one of the top O-lines in the Big Ten, only brings back two starters from last season. If the line doesn't come together well, Baker might not be able to have the special season that he has the potential to put together. Meanwhile, the defensive line is probably the best in the conference. Jerel Worthy is the key piece in this physical group. The linebackers have only one starter back from last year, and AllAmerican Greg Jones is one of those departed tacklers. The secondary, led by Johnny Adams and Trenton Robinson, will be good. All around, this is a very solid and complete team. Just because this team is as good or maybe even better than last year's team doesn't mean that they will have the same results. Dantonio's squad won a lot of close games, and they may not be able to pull out all the close ones again in 2011. In the end, their season will depend on how they do during a midseason stretch against four ranked teams. It won't be easy, but I will predict MSU to get to the Big Ten title game. Bowl Prediction: Capital One Bowl Schedule: Youngstown St, Fl. Atlantic, @Notre Dame, Central Michigan, @Ohio St, Michigan, Wisconsin, @Nebraska, Minnesota, @Iowa, Indiana, @Northwestern The Spartans will need to win in Lincoln to stay alive in this division. It comes at the end of a tough stretch, but MSU matches up well against the Huskers.

2. Nebraska- After back to back Big Twelve championship game appearance, the Cornhuskers will make their much anticipated move to the newly shaped Big Ten conference. They will be the preseason favorite of many to win the Legends Division, and they have talent to do so. Taylor Martinez will be the starting quarterback right out of the gate after starting out blazing hot in 2010. He did cool off at the end of the season, and the main reason for that was injuries. Even during his successful, games, however, he struggled throwing the football. Martinez, much like Denard Robinson in his freshman year, excelled running the football. Now that he has experience and the opportunity to improve using his arm, Martinez could become a dangerous threat in this offense throughout the entire season. Rex Burkhead, the top running back in this system, will share the load with Taylor, and he will take some of the pressure off of his quarterback. The wide receivers aren't experienced as a group, as Niles Paul departs after his senior season. The offensive line, which only returns two starters, must come together to make this offense click. The defense was the strength of this team in 2010, and it will probably be the same way this year. The defensive line, which is led by strong defensive tackle Jared Crick, must step up for Nebraska to be successful in the Big Ten. Teams in this conference are physical up front and like to run the football, so the solid secondary won't be relied on as often. Alfonzo Dennard leads the back four, and this group will be good once again. In the middle, the linebackers star Will Compton and Lavonte David, and they will be stingy. If Nebraska's defense can adjust to new offensive schemes and Taylor Martinez runs and throws well down the stretch, the Cornhuskers have a great chance to win the Legends Division in their first year in the Big Ten despite a tough schedule. Bowl Prediction: Outback Bowl Schedule: Chattanooga, Fresno State, Washington, @Wyoming, @Wisconsin, Ohio St, @Minnesota, Michigan St, Northwestern, @Penn St, @Michigan, Iowa This game comes at a perfect time, and Nebraska will probably be favored at home. The Spartans will test this defense, which should be prepared by October.

3. Michigan- The most consecutive winning seasons and bowl appearances, perennial Big Ten contender, cleanest program in America, traditional offense, stingy defense year in and year out. Those were all things that could be said about the University of Michigan's football program up until Rich Rodriguez took over as head coach in 2008. During his three years, he implemented the spread offense, had a combined record of 15-22, and committed a major NCAA violation that put the Wolverines on probation. Now, "Michigan Man" Brady Hoke takes the reigns as the new head coach, and he will try to resurrect this proud program that took a nose dive during Rodriguez's tenure. He plans to reinstall a tradition offense with a drop back passer and a physical running game. The problem with this is that he must do so with the small, fast recruits that came to play in the spread offense. Dennard Robinson, who ran the spread and used his legs to lead this team in 2010, must now convert to a pro style scheme and his numbers will plummet. He will still be a threat, but his arm will have to make more of the plays this season. The running backs will have to step up because of this, and Michael Shaw figures to carry most of the load. The offensive line is among the best in the conference, so they will be able to pave the way for the RB's. The real thorn in Michigan's side during the past few years has been their inability to play defense. They have been among the bottom of the Big Ten in most defensive categories in that span, and defensive specialist Hoke has hired Greg Mattison as the team's defensive coordinator. The defensive line, led by Mike Martin, will be much improved. Craig Roh and Ryan Van Bergen also return to this group which will be more tough in 2011. The linebackers are decent, but they are still inexperienced and small at this position. In the secondary, Troy Woolfolk figures to lead a pass defense that should be much better than they were in 2010. The kicking game also was a problem in Ann Arbor last year, but true freshman Matt Wile looks to secure the job, and the field goals should no longer be a problem. It will take a few years for the project to be complete, but I think this team will be improved thanks to a better defense and good coaching staff. Bowl Prediction: The Meineke Car Care Bowl of Texas

Schedule: W. Michigan, Notre Dame, E. Michigan, San Diego St, Minnesota, @Northwestern, @Michigan St, Purdue, @Iowa, @Illinois, Nebraska, Ohio St This will be the first ever night game at the Big House, and Michigan will need to prove their defense is improved early in order to win this rivalry game.

4. Iowa- The Hawkeyes blew a great opportunity to win the Big Ten title last year, as they went a mere 7-5 in the regular season despite 14 returning starters and loads of defensive talent and offensive experience. This year, Iowa only brings back nine starters, and the losses are huge. Adrian Clayborn, Karl Klug, and Christian Ballard all depart from the defensive line, while Brett Greenwood and Tyler Sash are lost in the secondary. The only dominant playmakers that return of defense are cornerback Shaun Prater and defensive end Broderick Binns. DT Mike Daniels, MLB James Morris, and FS Micah Hyde could emerge as solid defenders, but the inexperience on this side of the ball will definitely affect this group. Talent is also lost on offense, though, too. Experienced, smart quarterback Ricky Stanzi is gone after his senior season with the team. Stanzi, a great decision maker who could make good use of his receivers, will be replaced by talented junior James Vandenberg who learned well during his two years of backup duties. Speaking of the wide receivers, Derrell Johnson-Koulianos leaves as the top pass catcher in Iowa school history, and that will be a hit to the receiving corps. Marvin McNutt does return, however, and he is an explosive threat with the ball in his hands. The running game may take a hit with the loss of Adam Robinson and fullback Brett Morse. The new back, Marcus Coker, does get the advantage of running behind a talented and experienced offensive line led by offensive tackle Riley Reiff. Coker's numbers will be good because of the O-line and the physical scheme which includes a lot of RB carries. The talent is present, but the experience is not there to make Iowa a Big Ten contender this season. Bowl Prediction: TicketCity Bowl Schedule: Tennessee Tech, @Iowa St, Pittsburgh, ULM, @Penn St, Northwestern, Indiana, @Minnesota, Michigan, Michigan St, @Purdue, @Nebraska The Hawkeyes destroyed Michigan State at home last year and ruined the Spartans hopes of a BCS bowl. They will be playing underdog in 2011.

5. Northwestern- Pat Fitzgerald has gotten this team to respectability and has kept them there, leading the Wildcats to three straight bowl appearances. They should have another solid season this year, and will make their fourth consecutive bowl game. Northwestern returns 16 starters from last years team, with nine on offense and seven on defense. Among the offensive starters coming back is quarterback Dan Persa. Persa, who was awarded to the Big Ten first team in his junior season in 2010, has done a great job in replacing Mike Kafka, and could surpass Kafkas numbers this season. Mike Trumpy returns as the starting running back after a solid freshman season, but he will need to improve to take some of the pressure off of Persa and the passing game. Jeremy Ebert and Demetrius Fields will be the go-to receivers in this experienced and dangerous passing attack. Drake Dunsmore could also have an impact from the slot back position. The offensive line returns four starters, so the backfield should get good protection. On defense, three starters return to a D-line that is led by Vince Browne. The linebackers are inexperienced, but should still be a decent support crew to back up the defensive line. Only one starter is lost from a solid secondary that will be led by safety Brian Peters. This team is solid all around, and they could rise higher in the Legends Division standings if they win a few close games. Bowl Prediction: Compass Bowl Schedule: @Boston College, Eastern Illinois, @Army, @Illinois, Michigan, @Iowa, Penn St, @Indiana, @Nebraska, Rice, Minnesota, Michigan St This home game sits in the middle of a four game stretch of equally matched conference games that the Cats must win to improve their bowl status.

6. Minnesota- The Golden Gophers have been less than golden throughout the past several seasons, as they have been among the worst in the Big Ten since 2007. This year, despite 14 returning starters, Minnesota will probably disappoint fans in Minneapolis once again. The main reason for this is the loss of all time career passing leader Adam Weber, who departs after his senior season. He will be replaced by junior QB MarQueis Gray, who played mostly as a wide receiver

last season. Redshirt freshman Lamonte Edwards takes over the reins at the running back position. He hopes to be the best RB at Minnesota since Laurence Maroney departed in 2005. The wide receivers are talented, and they should help the passing numbers. The defense will be a reason for hope, however. Eight starters return including cornerback Troy Stoudermire, and this group will be much improved. After all, there is only one way to go for the Gophers after having one of the conferences worst defenses in 2010. If the offense comes together and the defense improves as expected, Minnesota could pull off an upset or two in conference play behind first year head coach Jerry Kill. Bowl Prediction: NONE Schedule: @USC, New Mexico St, Miami (Oh.), North Dakota St, @Michigan, @Purdue, Nebraska, Iowa, @Michigan St, Wisconsin, @Northwestern, Illinois This is a game in which Minnesota has the potential to pull off an upset, and it comes midseason by which time the Gophers will have an identity.

Big Ten Teams

Wisconsin Badgers Michigan State Spartans Nebraska Cornhuskers Ohio State Buckeyes Michigan Wolverines Penn State Nittany Lions Iowa Hawkeyes Northwestern Wildcats Illinois Fighting Illini Purdue Boilermakers Minnesota Golden Gophers Indiana Hoosiers Same Same Same Down Same Up Same Same Same Up Same Down

Pac 12
After expanding to twelve teams, this newly shaped conference now will have a conference championship game for the first time in its history. The conference will be split into North and South divisions, and for the first few years the divisions appear as if they will be very lopsided. Stanford and Oregon are both in the North Division, and both should finish in the Top 5 at the end of the season. Those two teams have become the faces of this conference with USC in a bit of a down period. This year, some new teams should emerge as threats in the South Division. Arizona State, who finished with a losing record in 2010, returns an experienced squad to a team that came close in nearly every game and failed only to close out games. UCLA has the opportunity to improve and get back to the postseason. Utah joins the Pac 12 as well as Colorado, and the Utes may compete to some degree. Arizona is led by Nick Foles and should improve on last years seven wins. It will be interesting to see how the conference standings shake out, but it appears that Oregon and Stanford are a few steps ahead of the pack and they will fight it out for the South Division crown and then the Pac 12 title. Conference Champion: Stanford

Pac 12 North Projected Standings

1. Stanford- Coming off of their best season in school history, the Cardinal lost their head coach Jim Harbaugh to the San Francisco 49ers of the NFL. It also appeared as if Andrew Luck would leave to the NFL early, and Stanfords chance of two straight double digit win seasons seemed far out of reach. Then, Luck made the stunning decision to come back for his junior season (redshirt) and the hope was regained. The projected top overall draft pick will enter the season as the Heisman frontrunner as the leader of a team that is now a Pac 12 powerhouse as well as national title contender once again. Although Luck returns, this team still enters the season with questions surrounding them. The major question is how this team will respond to the loss of their head coach, who was the motivational force behind last year's success. His replacement, David Shaw, was the offensive coordinator in 2010 and knows this team like the back of his hand. It will be necessary for Shaw to preach toughness like Harbaugh did, because that is was drove Stanford last season. Luck will not only be a great leader, but also the best quarterback in the NCAA. Stepfan Taylor, who did well replacing Toby Gerhart, looks to back up his impressive 2010 numbers. He will be running behind an offensive line that only returns two starters from last season's physical group, but both the returnees are defending all conference selections. It will be critical for the incoming starters to step up for this offense to click. The two tight ends will also create a lot of running lanes, and they as well as the receivers will put up good receiving numbers thanks to their quarterback. The defense, which was good enough in most of the games, returns six starters. The secondary, which returns three starters, will be among the best in the conference. Two linebackers returns, but those returnees were the team's top two tacklers from a year ago. They do lose Owen Marecic, who was a living example of toughness at both the linebacker and fullback positions. Matthew Masifilo is the only defensive lineman coming back in this 3-4 system. The D-line will need to solidify in big games and stop the run against teams like Oregon, because big running plays is what cost Stanford in their only loss last season. Stanford gets two of their three toughest games at home, and the Cardinal will need a win on November 12 in order to achieve perfection and reach the BCS Title Game.

Bowl Prediction: National Championship Game

Stanford's Schedule: San Jose St, @Duke, @Arizona, UCLA, Colorado, @Wash. St, Washington, @USC, @Oregon St, Oregon, California, Notre Dame The Cardinal won the first three quarters against the Ducks last season, but they will need to stay fresh all game to ensure revenge and a National Title berth.

2. Oregon- Last season, the Ducks finished the regular season unbeaten with the most explosive offense in the country and got a berth in the National Championship Game, where they were slowed to a minimal 19 points in a loss to Auburn. This season, they only return eleven starters but most of the big playmakers are back. The defense will take the major hit with only five starters coming back, as they rotated about twenty players into each game to stay fresh on that side of the ball. With less experience, they won't be able to do that this year and they won't benefit from as many turnovers because of this. The defense also losses first team all conference middle linebacker Casey Matthews, and the front seven returns a slim total of two starters. The secondary, on the other hand, brings back three of its four starters, and will be a strong group. Although the defense will take a step back, the offense is what gives Oregon its identity anyway. The Ducks are led by first team All-American running back LaMichael James, whose speed and agility are unmatched by any RB in the country. James will be partnered with Kenjon Barner as well as loads of incoming, young, talented ball carriers. The receivers are less experienced due to the loss of DJ Davis and Jeff Maehl, but Jeff Huff will lead a solid, speedy group. David Paulson was also the top tight end in the conference last year, and he returns. All conference selection Carson York is one of only two returning offensive linemen, but the running game will not suffer. It will be tough to match last year's incredible offensive numbers, but Chip Kelly's up-tempo option attack might even get better thanks to improved quarterback play from a more experienced Darron Thomas. He will be able to read defenses better and make wiser decisions at the quarterback position, and this offense will be lethal. Oregon does face a tougher

schedule than they did last season, as they draw both Stanford and LSU away from home, but the Ducks have what it takes to make another title run. Bowl Prediction: Rose Bowl Game LSU (in Arlington), Nevada, Missouri St, @Arizona, California, Arizona St, @Colorado, Washington St, @Washington, @Stanford, USC, Oregon St Oregon will have to go into Stanford ready to play, because the Cardinal will be looking for revenge with the Pac-12 North title on the line late in the season.

3. Washington- Prior to the 2010 NFL Draft, Jake Locker shocked the football world with his decision to return to college for his senior season at Washington. He backed up his choice by leading his team to a bowl game and achieving a winning record for the first time since 2002. He is now gone, and he will be replaced by sophomore Keith Price. This could be a sign that Washington is pointed downward, but Price's numbers may not take much of a step back from last season's passing stats by the inconsistent, injury plagued Locker. Price will have a good receiving corps to throw to led by Jermaine Kearse, and he will be protected by an experienced offensive line. Also running behind that O-line is RB Chris Polk, who emerged in his sophomore season and is now one of the top backs in all of college football. With a solid passing game and a stellar running game, the Huskies could have a better offense than they did last season. The defense, which was at times spotty in 2010, should be improved, with a real playmaker at each level of defense. The defensive line returns all four starters and is led by DT Alameda Ta'ama. The linebackers are less experienced but do return senior tackler Cort Dennison. The secondary, which returns three starters, has experience and talent. Desmond Trufant leads this group, while Quinton Richardson is a skilled pass-defender as well. With a strong offense and an improved defense, the Huskies should have an easier time making their second straight bowl under head coach Steve Sarkisian. Bowl Prediction: Holiday Bowl Schedule: Eastern Washington, Hawai'i, @Nebraska, California, @Utah, Colorado, @Stanford, Arizona, Oregon, @USC, @Oregon St, Washington St

This game will be played following four straight tough games, and Washington will need a win in Corvallis to regain confidence and ensure a bowl berth.

4. Oregon State- Last season, the Beavers faced what was probably the toughest schedule in the NCAA, facing both TCU and Boise State in the non conference slate. They underachieved their high expectations, and finished with a disappointing record of 5-7, falling short of the postseason. Heading into 2011, Oregon State does have many factors pointing them down. To start off with, the Beavers lose their top rusher, Jacquizz Rodgers, who finished his collegiate career with the second most rushing yards in school history. They also lose second round draft pick Stephen Paea at the defensive tackle position. They face a tough schedule once again, and so it may look like the Beavers could fail to make the postseason for a second straight year. There are definitely signs of improvement, though. Ryan Katz returns for his second season as a starter, and his numbers should be much more consistent compared to last year's. Wide receiver James Rodgers is back for his senior season after missing most of 2010 with an injury. Katz will be throwing to an improved receiving corps, and he will also be protected by an offensive line that returns four starters. Jovan Stevenson will replace 'Quizz at running back, and the rushing numbers should be down at least a little bit. The defense brings back only four starters, but they should be about even with last year's group. The secondary, led by Lance Mitchell, should be the strength of the D. If the Beavers can avoid the upsets they fell victim to last season, they should get back to the bowls after a disappointing five win finish. Bowl Prediction: Las Vegas Bowl Schedule: Sacramento St, @Wisconsin, UCLA, @Arizona St, Arizona, BYU, @Washington St, @Utah, Stanford, @California, Washington, @Oregon This midseason home matchup will be a test to OSU's improvement and a testament to where they stand in the Pac Twelve's overall standings.

5. California- The Golden Bears have underachieved in recent years, finishing lower than their preseason ranking in each of the last five seasons. Jahvid Best departed

prior to last season, and Cal finished with a disappointing 5-7 record when everything was all said and done. This year, they lose Shane Vereen, who also was a high draft choice, and his replacement at running back will be Isi Sofele. The wide receiving corps is loaded with experienced playmakers, and it will be one of the most talented groups in the conference. Kevin Riley is gone at quarterback, so it will be junior Zach Maynard's job to get these speedsters the ball in space. He should put up good numbers thanks to being protected by an experienced offensive line led by Mitchell Schwartz. The weak, inexperienced D-line only brings back one starter, and first year starter Trevor Guyton will have to perform well in his senior season to become a leader of this young group. The linebackers, however, are rich with talent in this 3-4 system, and Mychal Kendricks and DJ Holt will anchor the defense from the middle level. The secondary has more experience, but the talent isn't there as much as it has been in previous years. Sean Cattouse will be the leader of pass-defense, and this secondary has the potential to be good. California underachieved last season, and if they play to their potential they will be back in the postseason. Bowl Prediction: Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl Schedule: Fresno St, @Colorado, Presbyterian, @Washington, @Oregon, USC, Utah, @UCLA, Washington St, Oregon St, @Stanford, @Arizona St This will be a critical game for Cal to establish early confidence against a WAC power. If the Bears win, they should be on their way to a bowl game.

6. Washington State- After several strong years near the top of the Pac 10 conference, the Cougars have plummeted to the basement of this conference, where they have struggled through seven straight non winning seasons. Paul Wulff enters his fourth year as this team's head coach, and he comes into 2011 with an ugly record of 5-32 in Pullman. WSU did play opponents tough last season, though, which points to improvement. Jeff Tuel quarterbacks an offense that should be on the rise, and breakout wide receiver Marquess Wilson will be his main target. LE Travis Long, WLB Alex Hoffman-Ellis, and SS Deone Bucannon lead a defense that returns eight starters. The Cougars are definitely improving, but they are at least another year away from the postseason.

Schedule: Idaho St, UNLV, @San Diego St, @Colorado, @UCLA, Stanford, Oregon St, @Oregon, @California, Arizona St, Utah, Washington

Pac 12 South Projected Standings

1. Arizona State- Last season, with a mere two seniors on a starting roster that returned only nine starters from 2009, the Sun Devils fought to a 6-6 record but they did not get the call to a bowl game. Five of their six losses were by a combined total of 20 points, and so expectations are high in Tempe with fifteen starters coming back. Quarterback Brock Osweiler, who emerge last season to beat out Michigan transfer Steven Threet, will be the face of this offense. His massive 6' 8" 235 lb frame allows him to run over tacklers and buy extra time to throw the football. Osweiler has a strong arm and makes good decisions, and his health will be critical to this football team's success. Meanwhile, Cameron Marshall will be the ball carrier running behind an offensive line that returns all five starters. Marshall is a strong, physical back that will run with power, but he does have the ability to turn on the jets if need be. The wide receivers are probably the weakest part of this team, but they do have some experience and they should be good. On defense, eight starters return to a group that did a good job holding down most of the conference's electric offenses last season. Junior Onyeali anchors a solid defensive line that returns two starters, and this team will once again be strong in defending against the run. All three linebackers return, including all conference MLB Vontaze Burfict. He will once again be a legitimate all-around defender teamed up with Brandon Magee in what might be the Pac 12's best linebacking group. As for the secondary, ASU looked like they would have one of the top pass defenses in the Pac 12 until first team all conference strong safety Omar Bolden went down with a torn ACL in the spring and news came out that he might miss the entire season. This group does still return two starters led by Eddie Elder, and the Sun Devils will still be tough to pass against. With fifteen starters returning, Arizona State is the overwhelming favorite to represent their division in the Pac 12 championship game. This is Dennis Erickson's best team since 2007, and they are an upset away from a BCS bowl appearance.

Bowl Prediction: Alamo Bowl ASU's Schedule: UC Davis, Missouri, @Illinois, USC, Oregon St, @Utah, @Oregon, Colorado, @UCLA, @Washington St, Arizona, California Although the Trojans can't play for the Pac 12 title (postseason ban), this game will decide the best team in the Pac 12 South and a win could put ASU in the BCS.

2. USC- Despite scholarship losses and a postseason ban, the Trojans are still stockpiled with talent from all across the country. Lane Kiffin has somehow managed to lure recruits to LA, promising them an opportunity to win a national championship a few years down the road. The problem is that, even with all the talent on hand, USC hasn't managed double digit wins since 2008, underachieving in each of the past two seasons. Quarterback Matt Barkley is already in his junior season, and it is time for him to emerge into the five star playmaker he was hyped up to be. Marc Tyler, who was the top running back prospect a few years ago, is now a senior, and he must break through as a top notch tailback for this offense to click. The receiving corps are young and explosive, led by sophomore Robert Woods, who was one of the conference's top wide outs in his freshman season. Redshirt freshman Kyle Prater and true freshman George Farmer also arrive on campus, and they were the top WR prospects in the past two classes. Rhett Ellison was effective last season, and he will again be one of the Pac 12's best tight ends. The offensive line only returns two starters, but talent is also abundant up front. It was the defense, however, that has prevented the Trojans from competing as a national powerhouse in recent years. Seven starters return to run Monte Kiffin's 4-3 system, and talent is also present on this side of the ball. Three starters return along the defensive line, dominated by junior defensive end Nick Perry. After leaky rush defense in Kiffin's first season, expect better numbers out of this group in 2011. The other strength of this defense is the secondary. TJ McDonald returns as one of the top safeties in the country, and Nickell Robey should do a good job locking down receivers at the cornerback position. Only one linebacker returns from the 2010 campaign, but incoming starter Chris Galippo looks to make some noise as the weak side linebacker in his senior season. If the defense steps up and Barkley can engineer the offense to their full potential, USC will be a scary team to face for any Pac 12 contender.

*Note: USC is in their second season of a two year postseason ban. Therefore they aren't allowed to play in a bowl game or in the Pac 12 championship game. Schedule: Minnesota, Utah, Syracuse, @Arizona St, Arizona, @California, @Notre Dame, Stanford, @Colorado, Washington, Oregon, UCLA Although the Trojans can't play in the conference title game, a win in Tempe would give this team confidence and probably earn them the Pac 12 South crown.

3. Arizona- After head coach Mike Stoops led an impressive campaign in 2009 that saw the Wildcats contend for a Pac 10 title, expectations were high in Tuscan heading into last season. Instead of improving and building on that success, however, Arizona stumbled to a 7-6 record and a seventh place Pac 10 finish. This season, with only ten total returning starters, it would appear that the Wildcats are headed back to the bottom of the conference. That may not be the case, however. Nick Foles returns for his senior season after slightly underachieving in 2010, and he will be the key part for this team. If he plays to his potential, he could put up similar stats to those he amassed two years ago and carry the team on his shoulders. He will be throwing to a talent wide receiver group that is led by the big, explosive tandem of Juron Criner and Texas transfer Dan Buckner. Keola Antolin, who was this team's leading rusher last season, will get a much bigger load this year with the departure of Nic Grigsby. While most of the playmakers are back, the offensive line is a major concern. Arizona returns zero starters up front, and they could have a problem protecting Foles and Antolin. The incoming linemen will need to step up in a big way, because the season could fall apart if this group doesn't perform. The defense returns only five starters as well, but, like the offense, most of the big time playmakers return on this side of the ball. Paul Vassallo returns to a strong linebacker unit along with fellow senior Derek Earls. Defensive tackle Justin Washington returns up front for his sophomore, but he is the only lineman returning on D. Led by cornerback Trevin Wade and free safety Robert Golden, the secondary will also be good. If the offensive line comes together and the new defenders step up, Arizona could improve on last year's disappointing 7-6 record despite a tough schedule.

Bowl Prediction: Sun Bowl Schedule: North. Arizona, @Oklahoma St, Stanford, Oregon, @USC, @Oregon St, UCLA, @Washington, Utah, @Colorado, @Arizona St, Louisiana The Wildcats could enter this game on a four game losing skid, and it would be tough to rebound from five losses in the first six games of the season.

4. UCLA- Around the same time cross-town rival USC rose up to dominance, the Bruins fell into a period in which they only reached a double digit win total once. They have struggled through inconsistency and have stumbled to losing seasons in three of the past four years. Now, Rick Neuheisel is in his fourth season here. He has had great recruiting success in his stint here, and that talent is finally coming together. Seventeen starters return to a squad that went 4-8 last year, but most of the key playmakers to return. On offense, Kevin Prince figures to emerge in his junior season to have a big year throwing behind a veteran offensive line. That big O-line has four starters coming back, and they will be improved. Running back Johnathan Franklin also gets the benefit of the solid front, and he will try to back up the strong numbers that he posted in 2010. All three starting wide receivers return from last year's team as well. On defense, eight starters return from a group that was shaky at times. Sean Westgate will lead the defense from the weak side linebacker position. Akeem Ayers is missing, but this bunch will still be solid. Up front, three starters return from 2010, and the defensive line will definitely be vastly improved. Datone Jones and Cassius Marsh will be the clear leaders of the line. In the secondary, Tony Dye will not only be an expert pass defender but also a dangerous open field tackler from the strong safety position. Cornerbacks Sheldon Price and Aaron Hester also have starting experience, and UCLA should be strong pass defense. With the Bruins showing improvement at nearly every position, this team could reach a bowl if they can pull off a win in one of two tough nonconference tests. Bowl Prediction: NONE

Schedule: @Houston, San Jose St, Texas, @Oregon St, @Stanford, Washington St, @Arizona, California, Arizona St, @Utah, Colorado, @USC This trip to Texas to face an improved Cougar team will test how much better the Bruins are, and it is a must win if UCLA wants to make the postseason.

5. Utah- Last year it took quite a bit of luck for the Utes to amass their impressive looking 10-3 record. Whenever they faced a legitimate opponent such as TCU and Boise State, they were destroyed and put back in their place. Now, they finally move into the Pac 12, and they won't be a dominant force in this conference. Only twelve starters return to a team that must face better opponents and probably won't win all the close games like they did last season. Quarterback Jordan Wynn is one of the seven starters coming back on offense. He is in his second season as a starter, and his numbers should improve. Harvey Langi has to replace all conference ball carrier Eddie Wide, and Utah should not have as much success running the football in 2011. De'Vonte Christopher returns to an experienced and talented receiving corps that will be able to get open and make plays when Wynn gives them the ball. Three offensive linemen return, but Tony Bergstrom is the only real force up front. On defense, only five starters come back from a group that was pretty good last year, but they did struggle against the good offenses of the Mountain West. Three of the four leading tacklers are coming back, but they are all linebackers. In effect, the Utes may have one of the best linebacker corps in the Pac 12 featuring Chaz Walker, Matt Martinez, and Brian Blechen. The two other returning starters are on the defensive line, where Derrick Shelby leads a group that won't be as good as they were in 2010. That leaves the secondary with all new starters, and the experience is lacking. The defense might not match last year's decent statistics. If you factor a team that is slightly less talented than last year's squad, a tougher schedule, and a little less luck, Utah won't match last season's ten win total and may not even reach a bowl game for the first time since 2002. Bowl Prediction: NONE

Schedule: Montana St, @USC, @BYU, Washington, Arizona St, @Pittsburgh, @California, Oregon St, @Arizona, UCLA, @Washington St, Colorado Both teams are adjusting after leaving the Mountain West, and this is a crucial game for the Utes to win if they want to make it to the postseason.

6. Colorado- Dan Hawkins took over in 2006 following a stretch of mediocrity and drove this program into the ground with five straight losing seasons. Somehow, this was appealing to the Pac 10, who brought the Buffaloes in as their 12th member. Now, led by new head coach Jon Embree, Colorado looks to be the bottom feeder of this new conference just as they were in the Big 12. All time career passing leader Cody Hawkins departs after his senior season, meaning that Tyler Hansen will finally get the position all to himself. He could thrive in this offense and improve on last year's numbers as he and Hawkins split time. Rodney Stewart is also back on offense after being one of the top running backs in the conference last season. Four offensive linemen return, and the offense could actually improve. Paul Richardson leads a strong wide receiving corps alongside two transfers. On defense, seven starters return to a group that was very shaky last season. The D-line brings back three starters including defensive end Josh Hartigan. Two linebackers return as well, but this group may see a slight fall. In the secondary, two starters return, led by Ray Polk, and this unit could improve. Despite the fact that Colorado brings back sixteen starters, a tough schedule will make it tough for the Buffs to win three games. Bowl Prediction: NONE Schedule: @Hawai'i, California, Colorado St, @Ohio St, Washington St, @Stanford, @Washington, Oregon, @Arizona St, USC, Arizona, @UCLA, @Utah This series has actually been pretty even in recent years, and the Rams will be better this year. Colorado needs a win here to get some early confidence.

ACC
Every year it appears that the ACC is ready to make the jump and prove itself as one of the premier conferences in college football, and every year the top

teams disappoint everyone once again. This was the case once again last season, and you end up with a bunch of close, exciting games that don't really mean anything in the national scheme of things. This season, there is again preseason promise that a team could emerge as a national title contender. Florida State, Virginia Tech, Miami, and even Clemson possess the potential to make a run at the top. Unfortunately, other ACC contenders and non conference opponents could very well dash their hopes. There are several other teams that could surprisingly rise up and win the conference as well, and it's always exciting in this conference as the race for the title game always comes down to the end of the season. Will these trends continue, or will an ACC team finally shine on the national stage? Right now, it's really hard to tell. Conference Champion: Florida State

ACC Atlantic Division Projected Standings

1. Florida State- The Seminoles are in their second year under head coach Jimbo Fisher, and they appear ready to rise back to national prominence. Getting Bobby Bowden off their back was a key step that they needed to take in order to look ahead into the future. Now, with a total of sixteen starters returning (eight on each side of the ball), this appears to be the year in which FSU cracks the Top 10. I will, however, start my position breakdown with a hole that must be filled. That hole is at the quarterback position, where Christian Ponder left and became a first round draft pick. Fortunately, he will be replaced by junior EJ Manuel. Manuel spent the first two years of his career sitting behind Ponder and learning the offense, as well as filling in when there was an injury. He is a more versatile quarterback than Ponder, and Fisher has been waiting a few years to implement him into the offense as the quarterback of the future. He will start his first full season throwing to a very talented group of wide receivers. Bert Reed is the main playmaker in a very deep receiving corps. The running game will also have depth, as Chris Thompson looks to overtake two year starter Jermaine Thomas. They will split carries, and both should be successful running behind a good offensive line. Three starters return on the line, and the other two slots will be filled by freshman All American Bryan Stork and top junior college transfer Jacob Fahrenkrug. On the defensive line, three starters return but the lone fill in is also a top junior college transfer. Brandon Jenkins will be the leader up front. The three linebackers will be the only "weakness" on this football team, as only one of them was a starter last season. The talent is abundant, though, and the incomers should step up and make an positive impact. As far as the secondary goes, Florida State could have one of the top pass defenses in the country. All four starters return, led by Greg Reid, who also is a threat as a kick returner. Xavier Rhodes, Terrance Parks, and Nick Moody are the other three starters, and other highly touted recruits add depth. This team is a real national contender and an overwhelming ACC favorite, and a nonconference revenge game against Oklahoma will be the key to their season. Bowl Prediction: Orange Bowl Schedule: ULM, Charleston Southern, Oklahoma, @Clemson, @Wake Forest, @Duke, Maryland, NC State, @Boston College, Miami (Fl.), Virginia, @Florida

Last season the Sooners smashed FSU's dream's in Week 2 by crushing them in Norman. This year, the Seminoles get the revenge match at home in Tallahassee.

2. Clemson- Coming off an ACC title game appearance, the Tigers fell to a disappointing 6-7 record last season. Two defensive linemen in Da'Quan Bowers and Jarvis Jenkins were destined for the NFL draft, and things appeared dim in Clemson following the bowl game. Hope was quickly regained, however, when fourth year head coach Dabo Swinney pulled together one of the nation's top recruiting classes in the offseason. Now, things are looking pretty good heading into the season. Despite some key losses, fourteen starters return and the incoming players have what it takes to replace those who departed. Nine of the returning starters are found on the offensive side of the ball, where Clemson is stockpiled with firepower. One of the players not coming back, however, is quarterback Kyle Parker, who left to play professional baseball. Filling in for him will be sophomore Tajh Boyd, who was one of the top QB recruits in 2010. He should do a good job engineering the offense in his first season as a starter. Andre Ellington, who did a good job replacing CJ Spiller last year. Mike Bellamy will also see some action in his freshman season. Youth and speed characterize the wide receivers, who are led by DeAndre Hopkins. Dwayne Allen is a reliable and useful tight end, and the offensive line brings back four starters. The only loss is a big one, though, as Chris Hairston was their top big man last year. The overall experience will prevail, however, and this O-line should be even better than the 2010 edition. On defense, the line returns two starters but also losses two second round draft picks. They won't be one of the nation's top units for a second straight year, but this group will still be decent. At linebacker, don't be fooled by the number of returning starters. Corico Hawkins may be the only returnee, but he was also the best LB on this team last year. Clemson also recruited the best linebackers in the country this offseason, landing two of the top three prospects. Meanwhile, two defensive backs return (not including top defender DeAndre McDaniel) but the secondary will still be good. The Tigers underachieved last season, and they will be much better in 2011.

Bowl Prediction: Champs Sports Bowl

Schedule: Troy, Wofford, Auburn, Florida St, @Virginia Tech, Boston College, @Maryland, North Carolina, @Georgia Tech, Wake Forest, @NC State, @South Carolina This game comes right after Florida State's matchup against Oklahoma. The Seminoles might overlook Clemson, and an upset here could put the Tigers in the ACC title game.

3. NC State- Last season, expectations were pretty low for the Wolfpack coming off a disappointing 5-7 season, but Tom O'Brien led this team to an impressive 9-4 record including a bowl win over West Virginia. This success came with third year starter Russell Wilson under center. He transferred to Wisconsin in the spring, and that leaves Mike Glennon with the job all to himself. For most schools, the loss of a quarterback like Wilson would be devastating, but Glennon is a highly touted passer who has been waiting his turn for a few years. He has the potential to match Wilson's numbers, and the passing game shouldn't take a step back. The running back position, however, is one place NC State hasn't had success in recent years. Mustafa Greene figures to be the starter once again after a solid freshman campaign, and he could break that trend. Unfortunately for Glennon, he will be throwing to a fresh set of receivers after the loss of notable names such as Owen Spencer and Jarvis Williams. George Bryan is back at tight end, however, and the new receiver will step up. Protecting the offensive backfield will be a good group of lineman, three of them having starting experience. On the defensive line, senior JR Sweezy leads a group that brings back two starters. Although linebacker Nate Irving departs, he is the only one gone in a unit led by Audie Cole. In the secondary, all four starters return and this group will be vastly improved. Even with the loss of Wilson and a few key receivers, this team shouldn't take much of a step back from last year's nine win total.

Bowl Prediction: Music City Bowl

Schedule: Liberty, @Wake Forest, South Alabama, @Cincinnati, Georgia Tech, Central Michigan, @Virginia, @Florida St, North Carolina, @Boston College, Clemson, Maryland

The instate rivals are pretty much equally matched, and this game will not only be for bragging rights, but also for good position in the ACC standings. 4. Boston College- Under quarterback Matt Ryan, BC was a dominant force among the ACC, reaching at least nine wins in every season as the quarterback.

He even led them to a top ten finish in his final season as a starter in 2007. For the next two seasons, the Eagles were still good, amassing solid totals of 9 and 8 wins in '08 and '09. Then, last year, they dropped to 7-6 thanks to inconsistent QB play from sophomore slinger Dave Shinskie. Third year head coach Frank Spaziani figures to name Chase Rettig the starter this season, and he must improve his play in order for Boston College to have success. Montel Harris will be running the football often and probably with success. He has emerged as one of the top rushers in the ACC and possibly even in the entire country. Eight of the top nine receivers are coming back, led by Bobby Swigert and tight end Chris Pantale. Up front, three starters return to a solid offensive line that will pave the way for Harris and hopefully provide better protection for Rettig. The defense, however, is what will carry this team in 2011. Two strong linebackers will anchor the defense from the middle level. Luke Kuechly returns after being named a first team All-American last season. He is coupled with Kevin Pierre-Louis, who put up outstanding numbers in his freshman season. Even with the loss of Herzlich, this linebacker unit will be a dominant force and could be among the best in the nation. On the line, only one starter returns but this group will still be good at applying pressure. In the secondary, two starters return led by cornerback Donnie Fletcher, and this is a good group of defensive backs with the addition of freshman Al Louis-Jean. Even though the offense returns more starters, the defense will be the reason why Boston College should make yet another bowl despite a brutal slate to close out the season. Bowl Prediction: Independence Bowl Schedule: Northwestern, @UCF, Duke, Massachusetts, Wake Forest, @Clemson, @Virginia Tech, @Maryland, Florida State, NC State, @Notre Dame, @Miami (Fl.) This game will not only impact the ACC standings, but the winner will probably snag the final bowl slot given out to an ACC team.

5. Maryland- Last year was Ralph Friedgen's final season as head coach, and the Terrapins sent him out on a good note. Freshman quarterback Danny O'Brien led

Maryland to an eight win season but they were sent to the Military Bowl. Upset about playing in a lower class bowl game, Friedgen's crew took out their anger on the field by walloping East Carolina 51-20. Now, Randy Edsall takes over as head coach after leading UConn to a BCS appearance in 2010. He inherits a respectable total of fourteen returning starters, and most of the top talent is back. Of the seven starters coming back on offense, O'Brien is the most significant returnee. If he can back up his stellar freshman campaign with a second impressive year, this team should be in good shape. Unfortunately, his main target last season was Torrey Smith, who is gone. Smith was fast with the ball, and he had big play potential every time he caught a pass. His departure will have an effect on the passing game, but O'Brien will still be able to put up very solid numbers. Davin Meggett and Da'Rel Scott split carries last season at running back, but it is all Meggett's job now due to the graduation of Scott. He should continue to improve, and Maryland will be able to run with more success if he stays healthy. The four returning offensive linemen will also contribute to better rushing stats, and the backfield should be well protected. As for the defense, most of the playmakers are at the linebacker position, where three out of four starters return including dangerous tacklers Demetrius Hartsfield and Kenny Tate. Up front, Joe Vellano and AJ Francis appear ready to step up and make a significant impact for the defense. In the secondary, two starters return, but Kenny Tate moved from defensive back to linebacker and so this unit will be down a little bit with no stars returning. Overall, this team isn't quite as good as last year's addition, and the 2010 team did overachieve to some degree. Therefore, the record will be down a few games but the Terrapins should reach a bowl game despite their historical struggles on odd years. Bowl Prediction: Military Bowl Schedule: Miami (Fl.), West Virginia, Temple, Towson, @Georgia Tech, Clemson, @Florida St, Boston College, Virginia, Notre Dame, @Wake Forest, @NC State This game as well as the contest against Boston College are crucial because those three teams will be fighting for the final two bowl slots for the ACC.

6. Wake Forest- In Riley Skinner's four seasons at Wake Forest, the Demon Deacons made a bowl game in three of those seasons. Last year, in the first year after his departure, this team fell to 3-9 and their second straight losing season. They once again appear to be at the bottom of the ACC, and crafty head coach Jim Grobe will to all he can to dig out a couple of wins. Tanner Price figures to be the starting quarterback and the passing numbers should improve despite a few open receiver slots. Josh Harris will be the leading rusher once again, and he is set to put up some good numbers running behind an experienced offensive line. On defense, the front seven returns all but two starters, and the rush defense should be better. All four starting defensive backs are returning as well, and Kenny Okoro looks to lead a revived pass defense. Wake Forest brings back a total of seventeen starters, and this team will definitely be improved. The schedule isn't easy, but the slate provides for the possibility to surpass last year's disappointing three win season. Bowl Prediction: NONE
Schedule: @Syracuse, NC State, Gardner-Webb, @Boston College, Florida St, Virginia Tech, @Duke, @North Carolina, Notre Dame, @Clemson, Maryland, Vanderbilt

The Deacons start and finish the season with potentially winnable games, and a win in both (as well as vs. Duke) could help them improve their record from 2010.

ACC Coastal Division Projected Standings

1. Virginia Tech- The Hokies own an NCAA record with seven straight double digit win seasons. In many of those years, they have been considered preseason national title contenders before an early loss ruins their chances. This year, without a premier nonconference matchup, they appear primed for success. Despite the easy schedule, Frank Beamer enters the slate with an inexperienced team. Tyrod Taylor departs after being named the ACC Player of the Year last season as a senior, and the dangerous RB tandem of Ryan Williams and Darren Evans is also gone. The defense also returns a slim total of five starters, and the talent level on this team is definitely down. That doesn't mean that Va. Tech won't be one of the ACC's best teams again, however. Logan Thomas replaces Taylor at quarterback, and he shows promise. The converted tight end is big and mobile, and he has drawn some comparisons to Cam Newton. David Wilson will be running the football this year, and he will share a small portion of the carries with Josh Oglesby. This rushing attack is still very talented, but it pales in comparison to what they would have had if Williams and/or Evans had returned. Fortunately for Thomas, he will be throwing to a very experienced and talented group of receivers. Jarrett Boykin is the main man in the passing game, while Marcus Davis and Danny Coale are also reliable targets. Up front, four starters return and the offensive line will be among the conference's best. On defense, the secondary is the strongest piece in the puzzle. Jayron Hosley could be the best cornerback in the entire nation, and he will continue to be a lockdown force. Meanwhile, Eddie Whitley will once again be an impactful open field tackler from the free safety position, and Antone Exum will also make a lot of plays. Two linebackers return as well, highlighted by leading tackler Bruce Taylor. The defensive line is without a doubt the weak line of the defense. Only one starter returns, and they will once again be porous in rush defense. Frank Beamer always puts together one of the best special teams units in the country, and that won't change this year. This team is clearly less experienced and less talented than last year's addition, but an easy schedule will allow the Hokies to match or maybe even surpass last season's eleven win total.

Bowl Prediction: Chick-fil-A Bowl

Schedule: Appalachian St, @East Carolina, Arkansas St, @Marshall, Clemson, Miami (Fl.), @Wake Forest, Boston College, @Duke, @Georgia Tech, N. Carolina, @Virginia

This midseason matchup in Va. Tech's toughest game of the year, and it comes after a game vs. Clemson. This game could determine the ACC Coastal Division.

2. Miami (Fl.)- There is no team in the nation that has underachieved as mightily as the 'Canes have in the past several years. Last season, I was not alone in picking the "U" to win the ACC and reach a BCS bowl game. Once again, they failed to even come close to expectation. Jacory Harris was brutal when it came to protecting the football, and Miami was among the nation's worst in turnover margin and penalties. Due to these factors, they stumbled to a 7-6 record and head coach Randy Shannon was fired. He will be replaced by former Temple HC Al Golden. This team will try to start over, and a rise back to prominence would start with a turnaround at the quarterback position. Harris is locked in a tight battle with Stephen Morris, who did a decent job filling in when Jacory was injured. Whoever wins the job will need to protect the football if Miami wants to win games. Lamar Miller, who showed flashes of greatness as a freshman a year ago, will be the full time starter running the football in 2011. His speed will make him one of the best running backs in the ACC. In the receiving game, Travis Benjamin and LaRon Byrd will be joined by Aldarius Johnson to form a very talented group of wide outs. The Hurricanes do lose leading receiver Leonard Hankerson, but the production should be higher due to improved quarterback play. Despite losing their top man for a second year in a row, Miami's offensive line should be better and more able to protect the quarterback with Seantrel Henderson as its anchor. On the defensive front, Marcus Forston and Olivier Vernon are the leaders of a strong run defense. Sean Spence is the leader of the defense, and he is also part of a solid linebacker unit that will be good despite the loss of Colin McCarthy. The secondary is also strong, but the pass defense will drop some with the loss of Brandon Harris. Even with a few key losses, the defense will still be strong. If this team plays to their potential throughout the season, Miami could find themselves in the ACC title game as the Coastal champs even with the tough schedule that they must face.

Bowl Prediction: Sun Bowl

Schedule: @Maryland, Ohio St, Kansas St, Bethune-Cookman, @Virginia Tech, @North Carolina, Georgia Tech, Virginia, Duke, @Florida St, @USF, Boston College

Miami is by no means out of the race to win the ACC Coastal Division, and this game in Blacksburg could determine who will go to the ACC title game.

3. North Carolina- Heading into last spring, UNC looked like a possible National Championship contender behind the best defense in the country. Ten offensive starters returned as well, and the Tar Heels looked like they had a great chance to win the ACC. Then, almost the entire defense was suspended for a majority of the season, and the season appeared lost before it even started. The starters that were left played with a chip on their shoulder, though, and they were able to reach a respectable 8-5 record. This year, North Carolina returns 13 starters, but the depth added due to the suspensions last season make for more experience that the number of starters indicate. All four starters return from last year on the defensive line, led by Quinton Coples and Tydreke Powell. They will probably be the best defensive line in the ACC if Quinton Coples avoids suspension. Kevin Reddick and Zach Brown were the top two tacklers on last year's squad, and both return to a strong linebacker corps. In the secondary, Charles Brown is the only returning starter, but the rest of the group got playing time last year thanks to suspensions of the star defensive backs. North Carolina should still be solid against the pass. On offense, Bryn Renner has the tall order of matching the impressive numbers that Yates put up last year. He is more than capable, though, and the passing game should still have success. Renner will have the benefit of throwing to a receiving corps that gained experience with the suspension of Greg Little last season. Jheranie Boyd and Dwight Jones highlight a dangerous receiving corps. On the offensive line, three starters return and the incomers are ready to step up. Ryan Houston will be running behind this line, and he will try to outdo the trend of recent UNC rushers who haven't had much success recently. Butch Davis was suddenly fired after more allegations poured in against the team this offseason, and that could affect the Tar Heels. Everett Withers replaces him for this season, and if he keeps his team out of trouble, North Carolina could contend for the ACC Coastal Division crown.

Bowl Prediction: Belk Bowl Schedule: James Madison, Rutgers, Virginia, @Georgia Tech, @East Carolina, Louisville, Miami (Fl.), @Clemson, Wake Forest, @NC State, @Va. Tech, Duke This home game against Miami could go a long way in determining the winner of a three way Coastal Division race in which UNC is a key player.

4. Georgia Tech- After dominating opposing defenses with the option offense in Paul Johnson's first two seasons, the Yellow Jackets fell stagnant in 2010 and Johnson suffered his first losing season in Atlanta. The fall from ACC champions to 6-7 was in large part due to the departure of physical running back Jonathan Dwyer. Without Dwyer, more pressure was put on senior quarterback Joshua Nesbitt, who wasn't as scary of a playmaker on his own. When the other team had the ball, the defense had trouble slowing them down, and that was part of the problem as well. This year, with Nesbitt leaving as well as sturdy RB Anthony Allen, things don't look as if they'll turn around too quickly. Tevin Washington figures to replace Nesbitt as the captain of the offense, while Charles Perkins will be the new starting running back. Neither one appears ready to dominate right now, and the offense could sputter because of it. It is unfortunate that they may not be able to get the ball into the hands of dangerous playmakers such as Stephen Hill at the wide receiver position. The offensive line, which returns three starters, will need to solidify fast to support this run-first system. Meanwhile, all four starters return along the defensive line, and Jason Peters will lead a much improved rush defense. Julian Burnett, who led the team in tackles last season, is the lone returning linebacker. Regardless of the inexperience, this group should still be decent. No defensive backs are coming back from last year, but the 2010 secondary was among the conference's worst, and so the pass defense numbers probably won't decline. With a struggling offense and a defense that still isn't fully developed, Georgia Tech might break a streak of fourteen straight bowl appearances and be forced to stay home for the holidays. Bowl Prediction: NONE

Schedule: W. Carolina, @Middle Tennessee, Kansas, North Carolina, @NC State, Maryland, @Virginia, @Miami (Fl.), Clemson, Virginia Tech, @Duke, Georgia This is one of a few evenly matched opponents that the Yellow Jackets must beat in order to reach the postseason. Maryland won the last meeting in 2007.

5. Virginia- In the three years following a successful 2007 campaign, the Cavaliers have failed to reach the postseason. Mike London is in his second season in Charlottesville, and the Virginia football program is beginning to show signs of life. After hauling in a Top 25 recruiting class this offseason, London is back on the trails to build on his collection of young talent. But until that talent blossoms, there is still football to be played. Virginia returns eighteen starters to a team that finished 4-8 last season, and they appear to be on the rise. One of the few losses on offense is at the quarterback position, where Michael Rocco will be broken in as the new starter. He shows promise, and he should have quality passing numbers in his sophomore season. He will be throwing to a relatively experienced wide receiving corps that should have improved statistics as well. At the running back position, Keith Payne is gone after posting decent numbers a year ago. Converted defensive back Perry Jones ably steps in to take his place, and he should come close to Payne's rushing numbers from a year ago. He also presents a pass catching ability. Along the offensive line, four starters return and this experience will allow for a boost in many offensive categories. On defense, DE Jake Snyder is the lone incoming starter. The others were all starters a year ago, and that is why the defense will be much improved. The defensive line, with three starters back, will be better at preventing the run and disrupting the passing game. LaRoy Reynolds and Steve Greer anchor the defense from the linebacker position, and this unit of LBs will be much above last year's group. Chase Minnifield is the leader of a good secondary, and the pass defense will be improved. Led by an experienced defense, Virginia will come as close to a bowl game as they have in a while, and they are an upset or two away from the postseason in Mike London's second season. Bowl Prediction: NONE

Schedule: William & Mary, @Indiana, @North Carolina, Southern Miss, Idaho, Georgia Tech, NC State, @Miami (Fl.), @Maryland, Duke, @Florida St, Va. Tech An upset at home in this midseason matchup against the Yellow Jackets could put the Cavaliers in a good position to reach their first bowl game since 2007.

6. Duke- The Blue Devils, who haven't been to a bowl game since 1994, have been dead last in the ACC for years. It is now David Cutcliffe's fourth season as head coach, and they may be as close to the postseason as they have been in years. The core of the team returns from a 3-9 team, with a total of fourteen starters coming back. One of the returnees is Sean Renfree, who should put up better passing numbers while throwing to experienced receivers behind an improved offensive line. Running back Desmond Scott, another starters from last season, will also post better statistics because of the better O-line. The defense, which isn't quite as experienced as the offense, also should be better. Two starters return up front, but even the lack of experience won't keep this group from improving upon last season's brutal rush defense. Kelby Brown is the only returning linebacker, and leading tackler Abraham Kromah is one of the departed players. This unit is much less experienced, but I don't expect much of a drop from last year's bad numbers. Three defensive backs are coming back led by free safety Matt Daniels, who was second in tackles last season. The Blue Devils are getting better, but they are still a couple years from making a serious push for the postseason. Bowl Prediction: NONE Schedule: Richmond, Stanford, @Boston College, Tulane, @FIU, Florida St, Wake Forest, Virginia Tech, @Miami (Fl.), @Virginia, Georgia Tech, @North Carolina This game against the Demon Deacons is one of the few winnable ACC games for Duke, and it's nice to get a win when ever it's possible.

Big East
The year 2010 is not one the Big East will want to remember when it comes to football. This conference as been the worst BCS conference ever since it was raided by the ACC, and that trend was made obvious last season. At the end of the regular season, West Virginia (#22) and Connecticut (#25) were the only ranked teams. To make things worse, the conference sent 8-4 UConn to the Fiesta Bowl as the Big East champion, where they were embarrassed by a much better Oklahoma squad. While the Big East is always competitive, the conference hasn't had a legitimate National Championship contender since West Virginia in 2007. The Mountaineers have underachieved in the past few years, and nobody else as risen up to claim the open thrown. Six teams have coaches in their first or second season (one in third season) and they are bringing new hope to their teams. Once they get their systems installed a few years down the road and with the addition of TCU, this conference should be on the rise. For now, though, it remains the worst of the six BCS conferences. Conference Champion: West Virginia

Big East Projected Standings

1. West Virginia- In three straight years from 2005 to 2007, the Mountaineers racked up eleven win seasons and finished in the Top Ten. Head coach Rich Rodriguez left for Michigan after the 2007, and quarterback Pat White departed after the 2008 campaign. Since then, the Mountaineers have failed to reach double digit wins. Despite reaching nine wins in each of the past three seasons, there is no doubt that Bill Stewart didn't get the most out of the talent on hand in his coaching tenure. That is why Dana Holgorsen was acquired this offseason to be the coach in waiting. Stewart was fired this spring, however, and now this is Holgorsen's team. The offensive mastermind inherits a talented team with twelve returning starters. Eight of those starters are on the offensive side of the ball, and his new scheme will help them put points on the board. The main piece in the puzzle will be Geno Smith, a pass first quarterback with a tremendous upside. He is in his junior season, and he could emerge into a record setting passer in this pass happy offense. He will be throwing to a talented an experienced group of receivers led by Tavon Austin. While Austin was a good pass catcher last season, he could become an elite receiver with the help of the new system. Up front, four starters return to protect the backfield, three of which received all conference honors a year ago. Andrew Buie will have the benefit of running behind this group, but the running game will probably still take a hit. West Virginia has to replace lethal RB Noel Devine, and the new offense has less emphasis on the run game. On defense, only four starters return from a unit that was stingy throughout the season. The most the Mountaineers gave up in one game was 23 points, but that number could rise with the lack of experience. On the defensive line, both Bruce Irvin and Julian Miller are back after combining for a staggering 23 sacks in 2010. The team does lose two all conference selections, though, and may not be quite as good. Meanwhile, the back seven returns a total of three starters, and neither the linebacker corps nor the secondary should match last year's success. Overall, West Virginia is the best team in the Big East and they have a great chance at ten wins if they play to their potential despite finishing the season with their three toughest conference games.

Bowl Prediction: Orange Bowl Schedule: Marshall, Norfolk St, @Maryland, LSU, Bowling Green, Connecticut, @Syracuse, @Rutgers, Louisville, @Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, @USF Any of WV's last three games could be the biggest, but this trip to Tampa could be the Big East championship game in the last game of the season.

2. South Florida- In a league full of mediocrity, the Bulls have been among the top teams in the conference for several years. Although they've been among the Big East's best, they have hovered at a consistent total of eight of nine wins in each of the past five seasons. Even in this poor league, those good win totals haven't earned them a BCS bowl game or a ranking in the final polls. His year, in Skip Holtz's second season as head coach, USF is looking to change that trend. This is also quarterback BJ Daniels' second season as a starter, and it looks like his time to emerge as one of the conference's top passers. His inconsistency hurt the Bulls at times in 2010, and he looks to maintain consistency as a decision maker, passer, and with his ability to scramble. AJ Love and Evan Landi appear to be his top targets, while outstanding punt returner Lindsey Lamar will also be a reliable pass catcher. Darrell Scott, who finally will get to play after transferring from Colorado, looks to carry a strong rushing game. The top RB recruit in the country a few years ago will be one of the top ball carriers in the Big East this fall. The offensive line only returns two starters, but that inexperience shouldn't affect the offense's production. On defense, six starters return with the only significant loss being linebacker Jacquian Williams. Even with his loss of Williams, the linebacker corps will be stronger with DeDe Lattimore and Sam Barrington as the highlighted playmakers. Cory Grissom is the lone returning starter up front, but sophomore Ryne Giddins will be added into the mix and the rush defense won't take a hit. The secondary losses free safety Mistral Raymond, but his departure shouldn't have much of an effect on the pass defense. Jerrell Young ably steps in to take his place alongside Jon Lejiste, while cornerbacks Quenton Washington and Kayvon Webster will also be part of a strong unit. If the defense emerges to back up the offense, the Bulls could ride their Big East championship hopes all the way to a BCS bowl game.

Bowl Prediction: Champs Sports Bowl

Schedule: @Notre Dame, Ball St, Florida A&M, UTEP, @Pittsburgh, @Connecticut, Cincinnati, @Rutgers, @Syracuse, Miami (Fl.), Louisville, West Virginia This late season matchup very well may determine the Big East title as well as who gets the right to represent the conference in a BCS bowl game.

3. Cincinnati- In last year's magazine, I predicted the Bearcats to contend for the Big East title (2nd place) even with the loss of head coach Brian Kelly and quarterback Tony Pike. Instead, they stumbled to a 4-8 record in Butch Jones' first season as head coach, their first losing season since 2005. An inconsistent defense was the main reason for the collapse, as the offense was unable to dominate and win all the high scoring games. This year, with a bulk of the impact playmakers returning, Cincinnati looks like they are ready to put last season in the past. Five starters return on offense, highlighted by Zach Collaros. The quarterback was named to the first team Big East squad, but never reached the promise he showed in 2009 when he filled in for the injured Pike. This season, he should continue to improve as a passer and take advantage of his great mobility in order to produce even better stats. While DJ Woods does return in the receiving game, Collaros losses his top target, Armon Binns, as well as reliable tight end Ben Guidugli. With Woods back and new playmakers ready to step in, this unit won't take much of a step back despite the losses. The passing game will be improved, but the running game will also be one of the best in the Big East. Isaiah Pead emerged as a lethal running threat in his junior season, and he has the potential to become the conference's best tailback in his last year of college. Unfortunately, the explosive offense will be operating behind an inexperienced front line. The youth shouldn't have much of an effect on the production, however, and could even improve on last year's numbers. On defense, ten starters return to a group that hasn't been good in the past several seasons. Along the line, four starters are back and that should lead to improvement. JK Schaffer is the most notable of two returning linebackers, and the front seven will be much better. In the secondary, all four defensive backs return to a group that is vastly improved. The defense is much better, and if the offense stays healthy this group could win the Big East and reach double digit wins and they are legitimate conference title contenders heading into the season.

Bowl Prediction: Belk Bowl Schedule: Austin Peay, @Tennessee, Akron, NC State, @Miami (Oh.), Louisville, @USF, @Pittsburgh, West Virginia, @Rutgers, @Syracuse, Connecticut The Bearcats play Pitt after a bye week, and they will need that midseason rest. This is one of the games in a row that will define their season.

4. Pittsburgh- The Panthers entered 2010 coming off of nine and ten win seasons and were the preseason pick to win the Big East. Instead of cashing in a BCS bowl appearance as expected, however, the finished the regular season 7-5 and needed a win in the Compass bowl to reach eight wins. Dave Wannstedt was fired as head coach after the season, and former Tulsa head coach Todd Graham takes over. He runs an up-tempo offense, and he will bring that offense to Pitt this season. Tino Sunseri, who first put his foot in his water last season, is now in his second year as the starting QB. Graham's offense focuses on the passing game, and Sunseri will benefit because of it. Jon Baldwin was expected to be one of the nation's top receivers a year ago, but he never lived up to that billing and so his departure won't be felt as heavily as expected, either. In 2009, Dion Lewis broke in at running back as a redshirt freshman to replace LeSean McCoy, and he was name a second team All-American. He was a Heisman bust last year but did have a decent season with just over 1,000 yards. Ray Graham will be the full time starter this year, and he should come close to Lewis' disappointing 2010 numbers. Three starters return up front, and the O-line should match last year's production. On defense, eight starters are back on what should be the Big East's best defense. Most of the experience is on the line, where all four starters return. Two linebackers return, and two starters are back in the secondary. Jarred Holley at free safety is the top defensive back. You could arrange this conference's top four teams in any order, as they are all legitimate contenders. With a stout defense and an improved offense, the Panthers could reach their first BCS bowl game since 2004. The tough games are spread out throughout the schedule, so Pittsburgh must be playing well throughout the season to allow for Todd Graham's success in year one.

Bowl Prediction: Pinstripe Bowl Schedule: Buffalo, Maine, @Iowa, Notre Dame, USF, @Rutgers, Utah, Connecticut, Cincinnati, @Louisville, @West Virginia, Syracuse This game against South Florida comes right after two tough nonconference tests, and the Panthers must stay sharp as every game counts in the Big East title race.

5. Connecticut- Last season, after opening the year at 1-2 including a loss to Temple, the Huskies rallied to finished the year 8-4 and earn a BCS berth as the Big East champion. Obviously, they were throttled by Oklahoma in the Fiesta Bowl, and head coach Randy Edsall jumped ship to become Maryland's head man following the loss. Longtime Syracuse commander Paul Pasqualoni is back in the college ranks as the new head coach, and he will inherit a tough situation with high expectations following the conference title. The team brings back sixteen starters, and it would appear that they are ready to contend for a BCS bowl game again. One of the key losses, however, is Jordan Todman, one of the top running backs in the nation a year ago. Highly touted senior DJ Shoemate will take over the rushing duties after playing fullback at USC a few years ago. He won't be able to come near Todman's production, and that will be a huge blow to the offense. The Huskies must also break in a new quarterback, but that switch won't be as dramatic. Zach Frazier was a disappointment in 2010, and whoever replaces him (probably freshman Michael Nebrich) should be able to post better numbers than those from a year ago. The receiving corps is back intact, and Nebrich will have a lot of reliable targets. Three quality starters return on the offensive line, and they should do a good job protecting the backfield. On defense, nine starters are back including all four along an improved defensive line. The linebackers are the only question mark on D, as Sio Moore is the only returning starter with the significant loss of Lawrence Wilson. All four starters are back what is one of the top defensive back units in the country. The defense will be solid, and if DJ Shoemate plays well, this team will once again be in Big East contention. With an easy nonconference schedule, UConn could match last year's eight wins despite having a slightly weaker team.

Bowl Prediction: Liberty Bowl Schedule: Fordham, @Vanderbilt, Iowa St, @Buffalo, Western Michigan, @West Virginia, USF, @Pittsburgh, Syracuse, Louisville, Rutgers, @Cincinnati
Connecticut beat the Mountaineers last season to earn the conference title, but they haven't ever won in Morgantown. A win would keep them in the Big East race.

6. Louisville- In 2006, the Cardinals went 12-1 and would have played for the National Championship Game if it hadn't been for a blown lead against Rutgers late in the season. They opened the next year ranked #10 but struggled to a 6-6 record in Steve Kragthorpe's first season and fell short of a bowl game. In Kragthorpe's three years as head coach, Louisville never made a bowl game. Last year began Charlie Strong's tenure, and he led a team with below average talent to a bowl victory. Only ten starters return from that group, and many are expecting a drop off. Seven of those starters are on defense, which is Strong's specialty. Three starters are back on the defensive line, and this group will be better than last year's run defense unit. The linebackers, with two men back, will also improve. In the secondary, cornerback Johnny Patrick is gone after being picked in the third round of the NFL draft. Despite his loss, this is still a good unit of defensive backs led by safety Hakeem Smith. The offensive side of the ball is where a majority of the top talent is, but the experience isn't there. Teddy Bridgewater will start at QB in his freshman season as one of the top players at his position in his class. Victor Anderson has the starting job to himself at running back with the departure of all conference tailback Bilal Powell. Anderson rushed for over 1,000 yards as a freshman, and he will try to regain some of that magic in 2011. Josh Bellamy is the only receiver with experience, but a better quarterback could lead to better production. Only one starter returns on the offensive line, and that could be a problem when trying to break in a new QB and a new RB. I don't expect Louisville to contend for a Big East title, but the Cardinals should be back in a bowl game if Bridgewater and Anderson contribute on offense. Bowl Prediction: St. Petersburg Bowl

Schedule: Murray St, FIU, @Kentucky, Marshall, @North Carolina, @Cincinnati, Rutgers, Syracuse, @West Virginia, Pittsburgh, @Connecticut, @USF The Cardinals' always circles this game against in-state rival Kentucky, but this year it will be especially important for both teams' bowl chances.

7. Rutgers- Greg Schiano, in his eleventh year at Rutgers, is the only head coach in the Big East with more than two years at his respective program. The highlight of his tenure was an eleven win season in 2006. Last season, the Scarlet Knights plummeted to a 4-8 record, their first losing season since 2004. In response to critics, Schiano hauled in a great recruiting class this offseason in an attempt to lead this program back to the top. Running back Savon Huggins is one of those freshmen who will come in and make a big difference. He could add a spark to an offense that struggled a year ago. Chas Dodd must step in at quarterback to replace Tom Savage, who transferred to Arizona after showing an upside. Dodd also had success in high school, and if that talent carries over in his sophomore season, he could have a big year. He will be throwing to an experienced group of receivers led by junior Mark Harrison. Up front, four starters are back and they should play a key role in the offense's production. The defense, which was atrocious last season, should also be on the way up. The defensive line was the main thorn in Rutgers' side in 2010, and two starters return to a unit that should take a big step in the right direction this fall. The linebackers should also be better even with the loss of number one tackler Antonio Lowery. The defensive backs are inexperienced, but they could improve from last year. The Scarlet Knights are vastly improved and should be on their way back. They have a lot of young talent that will provide success in the future, but they may be a year away from making it back to the postseason. Bowl Prediction: NONE Schedule: NC Central, @North Carolina, Ohio, @Syracuse, Pittsburgh, Navy, @Louisville, West Virginia, USF, Army, Cincinnati, @Connecticut Both teams are abundant with young talent that will bring them back in the future. The winner this year should snag the Big East's final bowl slot.

8. Syracuse- The Orange were among the Big East's dominant teams during Paul Pasqualoni, who is now taking over the Connecticut program. Pasqualoni's successor, Greg Robinson, led his teams to a disastrous total of ten wins in four seasons. Doug Marrone then took over, and he is in his third year here. In my 2010 magazine, I called for them to win less games than the four they amassed in 2009. Instead, they racked up eight wins and finished fourth in the conference behind the power running of Delone Carter. This year, thirteen starters return and Carter is not one of them. Antwon Bailey is his replacement, and he won't come near the success Carter had a year ago. He will have the benefit of running behind an experienced offensive line with four returning starters, though. Ryan Nassib will be throwing behind that line, and he should improve vastly from his sophomore season. Marcus Sales and Alec Lemon are two of the experienced pass catchers that will be on the receiving end of Nassib's passes. On the defensive line, Chandler Jones is the most notable of two returning starters. The linebacker corps will take a step back, however, with only one starter back. Leading tackler Derrell Smith and fifth round draft pick Doug Hogue are the two starters gone, and that will hurt this unit. In the secondary, the two safeties return and the pass defense should be about even with that of last season. Despite having four Big East home games and a manageable nonconference slate, I will call for Syracuse to fall short of a bowl game. Will they surpass my expectations for a second straight season even with the loss of Delone Carter? Bowl Prediction: NONE Schedule: Wake Forest, Rhode Island, @USC, Toledo, Rutgers, @Tulane, West Virginia, @Louisville, @Connecticut, USF, Cincinnati, @Pittsburgh The Orange get Rutgers at home in their first conference game, and a win could put Syracuse in a good position to make a bowl at 4-1 heading into Tulane.

Non Automatic Qualifying Conferences

Mountain West: The MWC has been the premier non AQ conference for years,
featuring the "Big Three" of BYU, Utah, and TCU. Now, with BYU and Utah gone, it's time for some new faces to step up. Boise State will begin play in the conference this fall, and they will be the favorite right away. Next year, TCU will leave but Nevada, Fresno State, and Hawai'i are set to join. Despite the losses of BYU and Utah, this is still the best non AQ conference in 2011.

C-USA: Within the last decade, the Big East has raided this conference of Louisville and USF,
but the C-USA is finally on its way back. This year, there will once again be an abundance of bowl teams, but the top five teams appear a few steps ahead of the rest. There are at least two legitimate conference title contenders from each division, and the race will be exciting. There could two undefeated teams battling in the conference championship, and this might be the year when a C-USA team finally breaks through to a BCS bowl game.

WAC: Throughout this past decade, this conference has been dominated by a Boise State
team that was always a couple steps ahead of the pack. Now, with the departure of the Broncos, the playing field has been evened out, and the four teams at the top all have the potential to claim the conference crown. Next year, however, Nevada, Hawai'i, and Fresno State will all leave, and this could become the worst FBS conference in 2012.

MAC: The Mid American Conference has never had a team with twelve wins this decade with
the exception of Ball State in 2008 and Central Michigan a year later. Their mediocrity will continue, but the conference title race will once again be very close.

Sun Belt: This conference is filled with former FCS residents trying to move up in the football
world. Troy has dominated the conference throughout its existence, and things will not change in 2011 with this still being the worst FBS conference.

Mountain West Projected Standings

1. Boise State- The Broncos entered the 2010 season coming off of a 14-0 record and ranked #3 in the preseason polls. They rose as high as #2 but finished the regular season at #10 following a devastating loss to Nevada. Now, with fourteen starters coming back including Heisman finalist Kellen Moore, Boise State appears ready to make it back to the BCS after taking a year off. Moore, who is already the school's all time passing leader, is on a quest to overtake Colt McCoy as the NCAA leader in career wins for a quarterback. He will be without Titus Young and Austin Pettis, who finished their careers as the leading receivers in Boise history. That means that Tyler Shoemaker must step up as the top playmaker, and Chris Potter will also break in as a starting wide receiver. Doug Martin will be running the football, and he could put up Heisman type numbers this season. DJ Harper will also see some action, and this will be an explosive combo of backs. They will be running behind an offensive line with three returning starters highlighted by Nate Potter. The offense is always explosive and among the best in the country, but what about the defense. The Broncos have established themselves in recent years on that side of the ball, and they will continue to improve this season. Up front, this group will continue to be stingy. Billy Winn, Chase Baker, and Shea McClellin are the three returning starters who all look to earn all conference honors. Byron Hout and Aaron Tevis return to a solid linebacker unit, and CJ Percy will provide valuable depth. Unfortunately for head coach Chris Peterson, the secondary won't be as strong as the front seven. Cornerback Brandyn Thompson and safety Jeron Johnson are both gone, and this group is going to be down a little bit despite the return of free safety George Iloka. Still, they should have a upper class group of defensive backs once again. This team is loaded with talent and experience, and they will be the favorite to win the Mountain West in their first season in the conference. Every team ranked in my preseason Top 12 has at least one game against another Top 12 opponent with the exception of Boise State, and so they once again have a good chance to go undefeated. If they run the table and the teams in front of them lose at least one game, the Broncos could very well break into the National Championship Game.

Bowl Prediction: Sugar Bowl Schedule: Georgia (Atlanta), @Toledo, Tulsa, Nevada, @Fresno State, @Colorado St, Air Force, @UNLV, TCU, @San Diego St, Wyoming, New Mexico This showdown in the Georgia Dome is basically a home game for the Bulldogs. A win against an SEC team may gain the Broncos more respect than most expect.

2. TCU- A year ago, the Horned Frogs became the first non AQ team to reach the Rose Bowl, and their win in Pasadena over Big Ten co-champ Wisconsin earned them a #2 finish in the polls. Andy Dalton played a key role in that success, but he is gone to the NFL as the school's all time passing leader after a huge senior campaign. He is just one of the eight starters gone from the offensive side of the ball this year, and that inexperience could really hurt TCU this fall. Casey Pachall must step in as his replacement, and he has big shoes to fill. He should develop into a good quarterback, but he won't come close to Dalton's numbers in his sophomore season as a first year starter. Both Jimmy Young and Jeremy Kerley also depart, and Antoine Hicks and Josh Boyce must rise up in a depleted receiving corps. Because of all the losses, the passing game will plummet. Another bad sign is that the offensive line only returns one starter, and All-American center Jake Kirkpatrick is just one of the valuable players lost. This group will have to grow up fast, or Pachall will struggle from lack of protection. On the bright side, Ed Wesley and Matthew Tucker both return from tremendous sophomore seasons to run the football. Even with the inexperienced O-line, they could be the conference's best group of backs. On the other side of the ball, TCU has been the top ranked defense in the country each of the past three seasons. They have a chance to make a fourth, even with only five starters returning on D. That hope lies in a dominant, crushing linebacker corps led by All-Americans Tank Carder and Tanner Brock. They will put tremendous pressure on opposing QBs and hold opponents to very limited points. On the defensive line, Stansly Maponga will emerge into a dominant playmaker opposite from senior Braylon Broughton, but he is the only returning starter in a unit that could decline once again. In the secondary, two defensive backs return, and the pass defense will still be strong despite the loss of safety Tejay Johnson. This team has a solid shot at a double digit win total, but inexperience and a tough schedule will make it very unlikely for the Horned Frogs to finish undefeated.

Bowl Prediction: Las Vegas Bowl Schedule: @Baylor, @Air Force, ULM, Portland St, SMU, @San Diego St, New Mexico, BYU, @Wyoming, @Boise St, Colorado St, UNLV This game was moved from Fort Worth to the blue turf, and TCU will need a win in order to snag a third straight Mountain West conference title.

3. Air Force- Troy Calhoun has resurrected this program, leading the Falcons to at least eight wins in each of his four seasons here in Colorado Springs. Last season, he led Air Force to a win against rival Navy for the first time in a long time en route to a 9-4 record. After defeating BYU and hanging tight with Oklahoma and Utah a year ago, expectations are high heading into 2011. The Falcons have fourteen returning starters, which is very high for a service academy. Most of the key parts are back in what was one of the nation's top rushing teams a year ago. Tim Jefferson is in his senior season as the pilot of this triple option attack, and he will enters the season as a rushing threat as well as a more polished passer. Asher Clark is also a senior, and he will give opposing defenses nightmares running the football behind an experienced offensive line with three starters back. Wesley Cobb looks like the frontrunner to take over at fullback replacing Jared Tew, and he should be able to fill the hole left by Tew's departure. Jonathan Warzeka will also get some carries, and he will add to the potent running game presented by Air Force. The receivers are less experienced, but they don't play much of a role in this run based attack. On defense, five of the front seven return led by defensive end Zach Payne and linebackers Jordan Waiwaiole and Brady Amack. Both the defensive line and linebackers will show huge signs of improvement. In the secondary, free safety Jon Davis and cornerback Anthony Wright are the most significant of three returning starters in another very good pass defense. The Falcons are a very good team that could snag their first ten win season since 1998 if they play to their potential. Bowl Prediction: Poinsettia Bowl

Schedule: South Dakota, TCU, Tennessee St, @Navy, @Notre Dame, San Diego St, @Boise St, @New Mexico, Army, Wyoming, UNLV, @Colorado State Air Force gets the Horned Frogs at home in Week 2, and they will look to put pressure on TCU's young O-line and fluster the new QB for an upset win.

4. San Diego State- After years of losing seasons dating back to 1998, the Aztecs followed second year head coach Brady Hoke to a bowl game at nine wins last fall and SDSU finished fourth in the conference. Their four losses were by a slim total of 15 points, and so they could have gone 13-0 if they snuck out all the close wins. Unfortunately, that success is what made Michigan take notice of former D-line coach Brady Hoke, and U-M hired him to fill their head coaching vacancy. He took offensive coordinator Al Borges along with him. Those coaching losses may have some people worried, but the returning talent should have Aztec fans fired up. Long time New Mexico head coach Rocky Long was promoted from defensive coordinator to HC, and he inherits a solid thirteen returning starters. Senior quarterback Ryan Lindley is one of the eight offensive starters coming back, and he is one of the MWC's best QBs. He teams up with emerging star running back Ronnie Hillman, who earned freshman All-American and conference freshman of the year in 2010. Hillman and Lindley will be a dynamic combo on offense, and they will get protection from an experienced offensive line. Vincent Brown departs from the receiving corps, but that won't stop Lindley from putting up outstanding numbers. On defense, five starters return to a group that was mediocre a season ago. Rocky Long runs a 3-4 defense, and there one legitimate playmaker at each level of a defense that should be vastly improved. Jerome Long is the lone returnee up front, but he should be a huge force in the opposing backfield. Miles Burris is one of two linebackers returning this year, and he is set for a big year after being this team's top tackler and earning all conference honors in 2010. The secondary has two returning starters as well, and Leon McFadden is back as the MWC's top cornerback for a second straight season. While this team loses its head coach and is slightly weaker than the 2010 edition, the Aztecs could match last year's nine win total in Rocky Long's first season as head coach.

Bowl Prediction: Independence Bowl Schedule: Cal Poly, @Army, Washington St, @Michigan, TCU, @Air Force, Wyoming, New Mexico, @Colorado St, Boise St, @UNLV, Fresno St
Rocky Long will take a determined team into Ann Arbor to prove to Hoke that they can compete without him. This is the 1st of a 3 game stretch that will define their season.

5. Colorado State- The Rams, who are coming off of a pair of 3-9 seasons, feel like it's time to break through in Steve Fairchild's fourth season and reach their first bowl game since 2008. Pete Thomas gives them a great chance to do just that. He had a record setting performance as a freshmen a year ago and he hopes to improve on that success this fall. Raymond Carter should be good in running game, and this offense will be improved as a whole. On defense, six starters return to a much improved defense. The back seven, especially the linebacker corps, will be the strength of the D. Mychal Sisson will be the biggest presence on that side of the ball, and he will have a huge impact from the weak side linebacker position. Overall, this team is vastly improved and they should reach a bowl game if they stay strong through a tough stretch at the end of the season. Bowl Prediction: New Mexico Bowl Schedule: @New Mexico, Northern Colorado, Colorado, @Utah St, San Jose St, Boise St, @UTEP, @UNLV, San Diego St, @TCU, Air Force, Wyoming This team will be coming off of three tough games, and they must stay sharp in order to avoid a devastating loss to Wyoming that could cost them a bowl game.

6. Wyoming- The Cowboys will fall just short of the postseason. 7. UNLV- The Rebels aren't quite there yet. 8. New Mexico- The Lobos are behind the pack despite 15 returning starters.

C-USA West Projected Standings

1. Houston- In my 2010 preseason rankings, I pegged Houston at #12 and said they could qualify for a BCS bowl game if they finished the season undefeated. Not only did they fall short of the BCS, but they failed to make the postseason all together with a final record of 5-7. The reason for the disappointing record was the season ending injuries of the Cougars' top two QBs in Week 3. Case Keenum, who entered last season with a great shot at becoming the NCAA's all time leading passer, was granted a rare sixth year of eligibility. Keenum figures to break that passing record this year, and he returns to a good team with a huge upside. He will be in control of one of the nation's most dynamic and underrated offenses. His main target, Patrick Edwards, could become an All-American this season and is part of a very good receiving corps. Bryce Beall, who was a first team all conference selection as a junior a year ago, will be a dangerous runner who will make teams pay for focusing too much on the passing game. The offensive line is less experienced than last year's solid group, but center Chris Thompson is back and he looks to become an all conference lineman for a third straight season. On defense, the top five tacklers are back and that will translate into less points allowed. DC Brian Stewart runs the 3-4 system, and the defense will be much improved in his second season. Three linebackers return, and they were the top three tacklers last fall. These linebackers will be stout and stingy, and they will be able to contain opponents. David Hunter is the most notable of two returning defensive linemen that should improved on run defense numbers. Only one starter is back in the secondary, and that is free safety Nick Saenz. They do get two JUCO editions and one transfer, and the pass defense numbers should be similar to those from 2010. With an improved defense and an explosive offense, this team could go undefeated if Case Keenum stays healthy throughout the season. Bowl Prediction: Liberty Bowl Schedule: UCLA, @North Texas, @Louisiana Tech, Georgia St, @UTEP, East Carolina, Marshall, Rice, @UAB, @Tulane, SMU, @Tulsa The Cougars have to travel to Tulsa in the final week of the season to take on a very good Golden Hurricane team with the C-USA West crown on the line. *Predicted conference champion

2. Tulsa- The Golden Hurricane, with an explosive offense, flourished with three double digit win seasons in Todd Graham's four years as head coach. This offseason, he bolted for Pittsburgh when he was approached about the job, and Bill Blankenship was named his successor immediately. He has no head coaching experience at the collegiate level, but he steps into a great situation with a team ready to win right away. Tulsa returns a whopping eighteen starters from last year's 10-3 team. The offense, which was dynamic last fall, returns intact with 10 starters coming back. GJ Kinne, who was named to the all conference team, is back for his senior season with his sights set on becoming the school's all time passing leader. It would take almost 5,000 yards to do that, but he should come close. Trey Watts is back at the running back position, and he along with incoming halfback Willie Carter will need to step up the running game. Last year, the QB and WR were the top two rushers, and the RBs should be more productive this fall. Damaris Johnson, who played a big role as a pass catcher, runner, and kick returner, is the highlight of a solid receiving corps. All five linemen return as well, and their talent and experience make them the C-USA's best O-line. While the offense is always great, the thorn in Tulsa's side has always been their inability to play quality defense. Eight starters return on that side of the ball, and they will switch to the 4-3 scheme. Up front, two starters return led by senior Tyrunn Walker, and the run defense should improved. With all the linebackers returning, the points against should also get better, as the top two tacklers return. Three defensive backs return, led by Marco Nelson. The back seven was good at creating turnovers this year, and this team could be really good once again if that trend continues. This team is on par with last year's version, but a brutal nonconference may prevent them from matching last season's ten win total. Bowl Prediction: St. Petersburg Bowl Schedule: @Oklahoma, @Tulane, Oklahoma St, @Boise St, North Texas, UAB, @Rice, SMU, @UCF, Marshall, @UTEP, Houston With two great offenses, this late season showdown figures to be a shootout. The winner of this huge matchup will most likely advance to the C-USA title game.

3. SMU- In the early 1980s, the "Pony Express" offense powered a dominant Mustangs team that was among the best in the country out of the South West Conference. Then, they were hit by the "Death Penalty," and they fell into a period of dormancy with one winning season from '89 to 2008. Then, in June Jones' second season, coming off a 1-11 record, SMU finally got back to a bowl game with an eight win season in 2009. They backed that success up with a seven win season in 2010 including a trip to the C-USA title game. Now, with eighteen starters coming back, they look ready to make it a third straight winning season. Kyle Padron is in his third season as the starting quarterback, and his numbers should continue to improve as he becomes a better decision maker. His main target will be Darius Johnson, who figures to make a big impact as the go-to receiver alongside playmaker Cole Beasley. In the last two years, the Mustangs have lost their top two all time receivers, but this group should still put up good numbers. Running back Zach Line was a first team all conference selection last year, and he should have that kind of success once again as a junior. He will be running behind an experienced offensive line with all five starters back. Those five are all seniors, and Kelvin Beachum is the best of a very good group. On defense, eight starters are back including all three defensive linemen, most notably Taylor Thompson. This stellar D-line teams up with a linebacker corps with two starters back including leading tackler Taylor Reed to form a great front seven. In the secondary, three starters return including cornerback Richard Crawford and safety Chris Banjo. Overall, the defense is much improved and may be the conference's best defense. Add that to a solid offense, and if they can cut down on the turnovers, this team could match last year's seven wins despite a brutal schedule with all the toughest games away from Dallas. Bowl Prediction: Hawaii Bowl Schedule: @Texas A&M, UTEP, Northwestern St, @Memphis, @TCU, UCF, @Southern Miss, @Tulsa, Tulane, Navy, @Houston, Rice UCF beat the Mustangs in the C-USA title game last year, and SMU will need to win this evenly matched game at home to ensure a bowl berth.

4. Rice- The Owls are improving, but they are a year away from the postseason. 5. Tulane- The Green Wave are better, but the record won't show it. 6. UTEP- The Miners won't reach back-to-back bowl games w/ only 11 starters back.

C-USA East Projected Standings

1. Southern Mississippi- The Golden Eagles have been a model of consistency in a conference that is lacking in that aspect. They have reached the postseason every year since 1997 with the exception of their 6-5 season in 2001. In no year during that stretch, however, did they reach ten or more victories. That may finally change this year, as a cupcake schedule sets up perfectly for a shot at a perfect regular season. Fourteen starters are back, with seven returning on each side of the ball. Austin Davis is the key player in the offense, where he looks to pass Brett Favre as the school's all time leading passer. He teams up with Kendrick Hardy, who rushed his way to a third team all conference billing a year ago, to form a solid one-two punch. Kelvin Bolden presents playmaking ability as Davis' main receiver, and the offense will be performing behind an experienced offensive line. That line, which returns four starters, will play a key role in the improvement of Davis as well as Hardy in his sophomore season. On defense, the 43 system features three starters back on the defensive line, led by defensive end Cordarro Law and #2 tackler Jamie Collins. Korey Williams and Ronnie Thorton were two of the top four tacklers, and they are the two returnees in a linebacker unit that will be among the C-USA's elite. In the secondary, two starters are back and the pass defense should improve with cornerback Deron Wilson leading the way in coverage. Kendrick Presley is the most important defensive back returning, as he was third in tackles on the team and had one interception. When you look at it, this team is not head and shoulders over the team that finished 8-5 in Larry Fedora's third season. The difference will be the schedule. The nonconference slate is nothing to be afraid of, and Southern Miss avoids both Houston and Tulsa out of the West division. Their two toughest games are against SMU and UCF, but they get both two matchups at home. The Golden Eagles have a great chance to get to the conference championship game, and a solid shot at an undefeated regular season finish as well. Bowl Prediction: TicketCity Bowl Schedule: Louisiana Tech, @Marshall, SE Louisiana, @Virginia, Rice, @Navy, SMU, @UTEP, @East Carolina, UCF, @UAB, Memphis This will be the Eagles' toughest test all season, and they get this showdown at home. Southern Miss won a year ago, and this contest could decide the winner of the East.

2. Central Florida- The Knights, who joined this conference in 2005, have established themselves as one of the top teams in the C-USA. George O'Leary is in his eighth season as head coach, and last year he guided UCF to a conference title and a bowl win over Georgia to secure an 11-3 record. The last time they won the C-USA and finished with double digit wins, however, the Knights slipped to a 4-8 record. This year, the talent and foundation are there to keep them from following that same dark path. While only ten starters return, most of the key position players are back on both sides of the ball. Jeff Godfrey, who was named the C-USA freshman player of the year last fall, if back with a year of experience under his belt. The dangerous runner should continue to evolve into a more polished passer, and he has a huge upside. Latavius Murray will be the starting running back, and he returns along with Ronnie Weaver to the conference's best RB corps. Wide receiver AJ Guyton and tight end Adam Nissley will be the top targets in the passing game, and they should both be good. The offensive line has three starters coming back, and they should provide quality blocking for the potent running game. On defense, only four starters return to a group that was among the conference's best last year. The defensive line only has one starter back, but Toby Jackson will step in to fill one of the holes. At linebackers, only one starter returns and this unit won't be as good. Cornerback Josh Robinson and safety Kemal Ishmael are the only two returning defensive backs, but both were first team all conference selections. The defense isn't as good, and the offense needs to develop a passing game to partner the rushing attack. The Knights are clearly still among the C-USA's best, but the inexperience will hurt this team and they won't match last year's eleven win total.
Bowl Prediction: New Orleans Bowl Schedule: Charleston Southern, Boston College, @FIU, @BYU, Marshall, @SMU, @UAB, Memphis, Tulsa, @Southern Miss, @East Carolina, UTEP Last year, UCF managed to win the East Division without beating the Golden Eagles. This year, they will probably need a win at "The Rock" to repeat.

3. East Carolina- The Pirates won't make a 5th straight bowl game despite good QB play. 4. Marshall- A brutal schedule will hurt the record of this improved team. 5. UAB- The Blazers are experienced, but their bowl drought should continue. 6. Memphis- The Tigers are falling behind, and their nine returning starters doesn't help.

WAC Projected Standings

1. Nevada- After returning to Reno in 2004 for his third stint as Nevada's head coach, Chris Ault has lifted the Wolf Pack back to the top, guiding them to six straight bowl games. Last year, Colin Kaepernick engineered a dynamic dual threat offensive attack in his senior season, and led Nevada to a 13-1 record with a WAC title and a win over #3 Boise State. It was a historic season for this program, and now they are faced with the task of attempting to repeat as conference champs. That feat became a lot easier when Boise State left for the MWC, but that's not to say a conference title is a lock. This team is nowhere close to last year's version, with only twelve starters returning. Kaepernick is gone along with leading rusher Vai Taua, and the offense will not be as potent. Tyler Lantrip steps in at quarterback while Mike Ball figures to be the staring RB in a run-first system. They will be operating behind an experienced offensive line with three returning starters including first team WAC selection Chris Barker. Rishard Mattews and Brandon Wimberly are both wide receivers capable of making plays when given the ball, and Lantrip will have to grow up fast to take advantage of those weapons. On defense, seven starters return to a decent but inconsistent group from a year ago. They lose third round draft pick Dontay Moch up front, and the run defense should slip despite two returning starters. The back seven is a different story, where both the linebackers and defensive backs should be better than last year's group. In fact, with two starters returning led by all conference selection James-Michael Johnson, this unit of linebackers emerge as the WAC's best. The secondary returns three starters highlighted by cornerback Isaiah Frey, and this group will also be among the conference's best. Despite the weak defensive line, the defense should still improve from last year's poor numbers. Although the offense is several steps behind last season's group, Nevada is still the favorite to win this conference for a second straight season. Bowl Prediction: Poinsettia Bowl Schedule: @Oregon, @San Jose St, @Texas Tech, @Boise St, UNLV, New Mexico, Fresno St, @New Mexico St, Hawai'i, Louisiana Tech, @Utah St, Idaho Nevada gets their four toughest conference games at home, and that includes Hawai'i. This late season showdown against the Warriors could decide the WAC title.

2. Hawai'i- In 2007, June Jones' final season as head coach, the Warriors followed quarterback Colt Brennan all the way to the Sugar Bowl, where they got destroyed by Georgia to finish the season 12-1. They struggled in the next two seasons before jolting back up to 10-4 last year. The offense was explosive a year ago, the was talent at all the skill positions. Now, they return only nine starters including just three from that dynamic offense. Bryant Moniz, who is the third leading passer in school history, put up huge numbers a year ago and he is one of the returning starters. Running back Alex Green was also among the best at his position in the conference, and he was drafted in the third round of this spring's draft. The receiving corps, which may have been the best in the WAC, losses all its starters. Greg Salas, who was a fourth round NFL pick, led the NCAA in yards last year, and he is gone along with fifth round draft pick Kealoha Pilares, and Royce Pollard must step up in a big way. Only one starter returns on the offensive line, and that could affect new running back Sterling Jackson from breaking into the system quickly. The defense, on the other hand, returns only six starters but should still be among the WAC's best. The defensive line will be better, and the run defense will be stingy. The group of linebackers is also the best in the conference led by Aaron Brown and Corey Paredes, and this front seven will be very good. The secondary won't be as stellar, but they do get some decent transfers to fill in for the two missing starters. This team will still be good, but with the key losses on offense and the schedule which forces them to travel to both Nevada and LT, Hawai'i won't match last year's impressive ten win total. Bowl Prediction: Hawai'i Bowl Schedule: Colorado, @Washington, @UNLV, UC Davis, @Louisiana Tech, @San Jose St, New Mexico St, @Idaho, Utah St, @Nevada, Fresno St, Tulane, BYU Hawai'i is still a serious WAC contender, and a win at Nevada could wind up earning them the conference crown for the first time since 2007.

3. Louisiana Tech- The Bulldogs have hovered right around fifth in the WAC for several years, and every season they look ready to take the next step. The challenge is to lift this program from middle of the pack to the top of the conference. Sonny Dykes, who is in his second season as head coach after replacing Derek Dooley, has that very task, and a team with thirteen returning starters looks ready to get over the hump. They have gotten some good recruits and quality transfers in the past few seasons, and those talented players finally will get the chance to shine. One of those players is running back Lennon Creer, a highly touted recruit several years ago who, after transferring from Tennessee, could emerge as the WAC's top running back by the end of the season. The receiving corps is also talented, and Richie Casey and Ahmad Paige highlight an explosive group. Throwing them the ball will be quarterback, Colby Cameron, who takes over as the starter as a junior. He will need to put up improved numbers to utilize the wide outs and help this offense. The offensive line only returns two starters, but some key incoming junior college transfers will help pave the way for Creer in the run game. The defense, which brings back seven starters, should also be improved. Matt Broha, who anchored the run defense a year ago, is back as one of two returning defensive linemen. The linebackers are also strong, where Jay Dudley and Adrien Cole were two of the top three tacklers last fall. Three defensive backs return, of which Chad Boyd is the most notable. Louisiana Tech must face a tough nonconference schedule, but they are still legitimate contenders for the WAC title in Sonny Dykes' second year at the helm. Bowl Prediction: Famous Idaho Potato Bowl Schedule: @Southern Miss, Central Arkansas, Houston, @Mississippi St, Hawai'i, @Idaho, @Utah St, S.J. St, @Fresno St, @Mississippi, @Nevada, New Mexico St The Bulldogs will need a win at home in their first conference game to keep them in the hunt for a WAC championship.

4. Fresno State- This may surprise some people, but I expect a down year from the Bulldogs. Derek Carr will need to step up, and if he does this will still be a decent team. The best-worst case scenarios range from a conference title to a losing season, and a tough schedule and inexperience (10 returning starters) makes it unlikely for FSU to win the WAC. I do think they still have the talent to reach the postseason, and their offense will carry them as far as they go. Bowl Prediction: New Mexico Bowl
Schedule: California, @Nebraska, North Dakota, @Idaho, Mississippi, Boise St, Utah St, @Nevada, Louisiana Tech, @New Mexico St, @Hawai'i, San Jose St, @San Diego St

A win at home could ensure them a bowl berth and possibly keep them in WAC contention by midseason.

5. Idaho- The Vandals only return twelve starters from a 6-7 team, but if everything fall into place this team could make a push for the WAC title.

6. Utah State- The Aggies played Oklahoma tough last year, and they could be able to match last year's four wins despite being a weaker team.

7. New Mexico State- The Aggies have never topped four wins since joining the WAC, and that trend will continue even with a much improved team.

8. San Jose State- Another tough schedule is why the Spartans will need to fight every game just to scrape out a single win.

MAC East Projected Standings

1. Temple- In a time frame of just five years, Al Golden led the Owls to a team who had zero wins to back to back 8+ win seasons. Now, Golden is gone for Miami (Fl.) and Steve Addazio, the former Florida offensive coordinator, takes over a team with a huge upside. Despite only having twelve returning starters, I think the Owls can win a MAC title in Addazio's first season. Bernard Pierce, who was injured late in each of the last two seasons, must stay healthy for that to become a reality. Matt Brown gained valuable playing time last season, and Temple will be better prepared if Pierce suffers another injury. Mike Gerardi will be the starting QB, and he will also need to show continued improvement in order for this offense to be the conference's best. On defense, which losses its top four tacklers, does figure to regress this season, though. The strength on that side of the ball will be the D-line, where Shahid Paulhill and Adrian Robinson figure to be dominant forces in the backfield. With a manageable schedule and the most talented team, Temple has a great chance to win the MAC and they will be back in the postseason. Bowl Prediction: GoDaddy.com Bowl Schedule: Villanova, @Akron, Penn St, @Maryland, Toledo, @Ball St, Buffalo, @Bowling Green, @Ohio, Miami (Oh.), Army, Kent St This trip to Athens will be critical to determining the MAC champ. The winner should go on to win the MAC East as well as the conference title game.
*Predicted conference champion

2. Ohio- Under Frank Solich, the Bobcats have emerged into a MAC powerhouse, with four non-losing seasons in a six year span. They have reached a bowl game in each of the past two seasons, and look to make it a third this fall. Only eleven starters are back, but there is still some quality talent. Five of those starters are on the offensive line, and they should provide great protection for a good offense.

The defense losses six of its top eight tacklers, and that is the main question mark on this team. The special teams unit will be good, and Ohio faces a very soft schedule. Most of the toughest games are at home, and the nonconference slate is a piece of cake. With a strong team and an easy schedule, the Bobcats could reach a double digit win total and capture a MAC East title. Bowl Prediction: Famous Idaho Potato Bowl Schedule: @New Mexico St, Gardner-Webb, Marshall, @Rutgers, Kent St, @Buffalo, Ball St, @Akron, Temple, @Cent. Mich., @Bowling Green, Miami (Oh.) Bobcats get the luxury of hosting Temple, and the winner figures to win the MAC East. Ohio has won the last two meetings with the Owls.

3. Miami (Oh.)- It took a lot of luck for the Redhawks to win the conference in 2010, and they won't repeat in 2011 despite the experience.

4. Kent State- This is a much better team, but the Golden Flashes probably are one year away from a bowl berth.

5. Bowling Green- The Falcons have experience but it won't translate into wins.

6. Buffalo- The Bulls could improve on last year's slim two win total.

7. Akron- The Zips appear to be going the wrong way in Rob Ianello's 2nd year.

MAC West Projected Standings

1. Northern Illinois- The Huskies have been up and down lately, with highs and lows of eleven and two wins in the past decade. Last year, in Jerry Kill's final season, they amassed eleven wins and rose into the Top 25 before an upset loss in the conference championship game. The much of the offensive machine is back, and first team all conference quarterback Chandler Harnish is at the head of eight returning starters on that side of the ball. Harnish will have a career year as a senior, and he will be the MAC's top gunslinger once again. Jasmin Hopkins breaks in at running back, but he will benefit from running behind the conference's best offensive line. The defense, with only two starters coming back, will be the biggest setback, but the offense should still be able to outscore a majority of their opponents. Despite having a new head coach and only ten returning starters, the Huskies are still my pick to get back to the MAC title game even though they won't match last year's eleven win total. Bowl Prediction: Little Caesars Pizza Bowl Schedule: Army, @Kansas, Wisconsin, Cal Poly, @Central Michigan, Kent St, Western Michigan, @Buffalo, @Toledo, @Bowling Green, Ball State, Eastern Mich The winner of this Tuesday night contest should be the deciding factor as to who wins the MAC West. NIU beat Toledo at home last season.

2. Toledo- Tim Beckman came and took over this program in 2009 following a 3-9 campaign and has led the Rockets to 13 wins in the last two seasons. Now, coming off of a bowl loss to FIU, Toledo is determined to have their best season yet, and the goal is a MAC championship. Eighteen starters return from last year's team, and it certainly appears possible reach that goal. All the pieces are still in place for the offense to be explosive once again, led by talent and experience at all the skill position. Running back Adonis Thomas and wide receiver Eric Page are at the focal point of the speedy attack. The defense was inconsistent a year ago, and that will need to change this fall. With a strong secondary, the defense may

finally be able to back up the potent offense. If all the pieces fall into place, then the Rockets are set for a big year that could possibly result in a conference title. Bowl Prediction: NONE
Schedule: New Hampshire, @Ohio St, Boise St, @Syracuse, @Temple, Eastern Michigan, @Bowling Green, Miami (Oh.), Northern Illinois, Western Mich., @Central Michigan, @Ball St

Toledo gets the benefit of hosting the Huskies, and it will be a big stage as far as the MAC goes. The winner should go on to capture the MAC West crown.

3. Western Michigan- The Broncos should finish above .500, but probably won't be granted a bowl berth for their efforts.

4. Ball State- The Cardinals were better than their 4-8 record last year, but an improving team won't reach a bowl thanks to a brutal nonconference slate.

5. Central Michigan- The Chippewas weren't the same last year with the departure of Dan LeFevour, and their still a year away from finding a new identity.

6. Eastern Michigan- Ron English has the Eagles on the rise, but they are not yet ready to contend for a MAC West crown.

Sun Belt Projected Standings

1. Troy- The Trojans have won at least a share of the conference title in each of the last five seasons. Larry Blakeney has been at the helm of this team for the past 20 years, and he has transformed them into a Sun Belt powerhouse. Things won't change this season, as a decent total of thirteen starters returns from last year's team. Corey Robinson, who was named to the first team all conference roster as a freshman a year ago, is only going to get better. As he improves, so will the offense, and that will compliment a good defense. This team is pretty far above the rest of the conference, and they should win a sixth straight conference title in 2011. Bowl Prediction: New Orleans Bowl Schedule: @Clemson, @Arkansas, Middle Tennessee, UAB, @Louisiana, ULM, @FIU, @Navy, North Texas, Florida Atlantic, @WKU, @Arkansas St A win this trip to Miami would secure the conference title for Troy. Last year, FIU beat the Trojans, and Blakeny will make sure that doesn't happen again.

2. Florida International- It may surprise you that the Panthers didn't begin playing football until 2002. They had their first winning season a year ago, capturing their first Sun Belt title at 7-6. Now, with fifteen starters back from that team, FIU is looking to reach back to back bowl games. Quarterback Wesley Carroll, wide receiver TJ Hilton, and running back Darriet Perry will need to continue their success for this offense to do well, and Jonathan Cyprien leads an experienced defense. The schedule isn't too tough, and they should get back to the postseason. Bowl Prediction: GoDaddy.com Bowl Schedule: North Texas, @Louisville, UCF, Louisiana, Duke, @Akron, @Arkansas St, Troy, @WKU, Florida Atlantic, @ULM, @Middle Tennessee The winner should go on to win the conference for a second straight year. The Panthers won this contest last season and look to make it two in a row.

3. Middle Tennessee- The Blue Raiders finished second in the conference two years ago and third last year, but they won't reach a 3rd straight bowl game.

4. Louisiana Monroe- This is an improved Warhawks team that could top last year's five win total and reach their first ever bowl game.

5. Arkansas State- The Red Wolves could be considered a conference contender in Hugh Freeze's first season as head coach.

6. Florida Atlantic- The Owls have had two straight losing seasons after back to back bowls, but HC Howard Schnellenberger will get this team back soon.

7. North Texas- The Mean Green haven't had a winning season since 2004, and that trend should continue this year.

8. Western Kentucky- The Hilltoppers have combined for two wins in two seasons in this conference, and they may top that total this fall.

9. Louisiana- The Ragin' Cajuns could fall behind WKU and become the worst team in the FBS' worst conference.

Independents
1. Notre Dame- For years the Fighting Irish were led by great coaches and rose to a period of dominance in which they were among the favorites to win the National Championship every year. Lately, however, that dominance was veered off into a dormant period of mediocrity. Alumni and fans keep waiting for the coach who will come in and bring the Irish back to prominence. Bob Davie, Ty Willingham, and Charlie Weis have all failed to right the ship, and Brian Kelly is now the fourth man in charge in this past decade. Now, he is believed to be the one who is set to resurrect Notre Dame. His track record speaks for itself, as he took Central Michigan and Cincinnati and turned them into powerhouses without much talent to work with. Considering the talent here in South Bend, many fans believe the possibilities are endless. In Kelly's first season, ND needed a late surge to finish with an 8-5 record, but there are high expectations entering year two. If Dayne Christ can stay healthy the whole year, then there is reason for excitement. This team is loaded with seventeen starters, nine of which are on offense. With one season under his belt, Christ should be ready to take off in this pass-happy attack. He will be utilizing weapons such as Michael Floyd, Theo Riddick, and tight end Tyler Eifert, making this group very hard to stop. Cierre Wood will again be the main ball carrier, and his numbers should improve in Kelly's second season. The offensive line brings back four starters, and they will provide quality blocking. The defensive line, on the other hand, continues to get better with a solid recruiting class and two returning starters. The linebackers are also very strong, with three returning starters including third team All-American Manti Te'o. Three defensive backs return as well, and the secondary will be better. With the top six starters coming back, this defense should be improved over last year's poor group. Despite the fact that this team has experience on both sides of the ball and that they are in the second year of Kelly's system, I don't expect the Irish to compete for a BCS bowl game this season. Notre Dame always underachieves, the schedule is tough, and the talent isn't in place for them to contend for a title this season. Although they won't contend on the national level, they should be able to top last year's eight win total with an improved team.

Bowl Prediction: Armed Forces Bowl Schedule: USF, @Michigan, Michigan St, @Pittsburgh, @Purdue, Air Force, USC, Navy, @Wake Forest, Maryland, Boston College, @Stanford Both of these teams are historical powerhouses who haven't played up to par in the past couple of seasons. A win at home could propel ND to a ten win season.

2. Brigham Young- BYU spent years as a dominant force in the WAC and Mountain West conferences, but still has no BCS appearances to show for it. This season, the Cougars will begin their first year of play as an Independent. They are coming off of a disappointing 7-6 season in which they needed a late surge to even get to a bowl game. There is hope around Provo entering this fall, however, as fifteen starters return from a team that was very young last season. Only eleven starters were back last year, and they were replacing school record setters in quarterback Max Hall and running back Harvey Unga. Highly touted QB Jake Heaps was forced to start as a true freshman, and JJ Di Luigi filled the RB hole. Those two gained valuable experience last season, and they are surrounded by talent on the offensive side of the ball this year with ten offensive starters coming back. Both Heaps and Di Luigi are set for huge seasons, and it helps that they will be blocked by an experienced offensive line with four starters back led by LT Matt Reynolds. The defense was solid at most times last year but did give up more points than you would hope against the elite offenses of the Mountain West and some nonconference opponents. The top three tacklers are gone, but the five returning starters couple with some quality transfers to form an improved group. The 3-4 scheme is led by a much better offensive line, with two starters back along with good JC transfer Hebron Fangupo. Two linebackers return and USC transfer Uona Kayeinga is set to fill one of those holes. The secondary, however, only returns one starter and the pass defense could slip. The defense is improved and should be stingy once again, especially up front. The offense is also much better, and they should be one of the most improved groups in the land. If you look at the schedule as well as the talent on hand, BYU has a great chance to seize their fifth double digit win season in six years.

Bowl Prediction: Armed Forces Bowl Schedule: @Mississippi, @Texas, Utah, UCF, Utah St, San Jose St, @Oregon St, Idaho St, @TCU, Idaho, New Mexico St, @Hawai'i
Most of BYU's tough games are on the road, and this trip to Austin will determine if the Cougars are prepared for the tough state ahead and which team can put 2010 behind them.

3. Navy- From 2007-present, the Midshipmen have had by far the best record of all the Independent teams. During that four year span, they have beaten Notre Dame three times and reached a double digit win total in 2009. They have been to eight consecutive bowl games and have won all of the Commander-in-Chief Trophies in the past decade with the exception of last season (Air Force). Why, then, are they being picked to finish as the third best Independent this upcoming season. The answer lies in the number of returning starters and how many significant players are lost. Only ten starters return, seven of which are on the offensive side of the ball. Ricky Dobbs is one of the significant losses, as the workhorse is gone after his senior season. The bull of a runner with a strong arm will be replaced by senior Kriss Proctor. While Proctor is not as tremendous of an athlete as Dobbs was, he still has the physical makeup and is in the right offense for him to be successful. Fullback Alexander Teich and SB Gee Gee Greene will also contribute to a running game that will still be very strong. The offensive line returns four starters and should block well once again. The defense is a different story, where only three starters return and the D should be much more porous than it was a year ago. Jabaree Tuani is a playmaker up front, but he is the only defensive lineman back and there is also only one returning linebacker. There is also only one defensive back returning, and that should affect the secondary. Despite only having one starter back at each level of defense, this group shouldn't take too much of a step back from last year's unit. This is still a talented team capable of winning a lot of games, but with the inexperience I don't expect them to match last year's nine win total. Bowl Prediction: Military Bowl

Schedule: Delaware, @WKU, @South Carolina, Air Force, Southern Miss, @Rutgers, East Carolina, @Notre Dame, Troy, @SMU, @San Jose St, Army This game will once again determine the winner of the Commander-in-Chief Trophy. For the first time in a long time, the Falcons will be favored over Navy.

4. Army- Heading into 2010, Army had not been to a bowl game since 1996 and had a devastating 0-13 season in 2003. Last year, however, they reached the Armed Forces bowl at 6-6 and beat SMU to finish with a winning record. It wasn't easy, though, and it took some luck for the Black Knights to get to that bowl game. This year, they return eleven starters from that team, which is actually pretty good for a service academy. On offense, Trent Steelman leads the triple option attack from the quarterback position, and he is now in his junior season. Jared Hassin once again figures to lead the team in rushing, and the running game will once again be very good. Wide receiver Austin Barr is back after a good season and will have an impact despite being in a system that doesn't emphasize the passing game. The offensive line is depleted with only one starter back from last year's squad, but the blocking should still be solid. On defense, Army was up and down last season and things may not get any better this fall with only five starters back. The run defense will get weaker with the loss of two starters and only one returning. The linebackers should be on par with last year's group even with the departure of Stephen Anderson, and Steven Erzinger will lead the way this fall. The secondary may be better than last year's unit, and that will provide for a quality pass defense once again. Overall, most of the key players are back from last season's successful group, and the foundation has been laid. They are assured a bowl berth if they reach six wins, and I think they will make it to the postseason for a second straight year with a strong offense and a decent defense. Bowl Prediction: Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl Schedule: @Northern Illinois, San Diego St, Northwestern, @Ball St, Tulane, @Miami (Oh.), @Vanderbilt, Fordham, @Air Force, Rutgers, @Temple, Navy The Wildcats finished the 2010 season at a 7-6 clip, and this would be a big win for momentum and for the Black Knights' bowl chances in 2011.

Credits
This magazine was finished on September 1, 2011. I would like to thank all the sources I used for helping me in the creation of this magazine. I used Phil Steele's 2011 College Football Preview magazine for assistance, and I also used various Internet sites such as Google Images and team websites. Thank you to those sources, and I hope you enjoy my Preseason 2011 College Football Magazine!

Karl's Other Magazines

Remember to read all of Karl Finkbeiner's other magazines, including baseball, hockey, and news additions. Also be sure to check out the 2012 college football magazine coming next fall!