Friday, August 31, 2012
2012 NCAAF Conference Previews Part 12
-PAC 12 Conference-
Predicted Finish
NORTH
1)Oregon
They officially return 11 starters but Oregon should have no problem winning the North division this year. On offense, the Ducks should be just as good as always despite losing QB Darron Thomas and RB LaMichael James. Senior RB Kenjon Barner will now be the featured back and,if healthy, should rack up atleast 1200 yards. Throw in RB/WR/KR DeAnthony Thomas and the Ducks will be hard to defend. It will be interesting to see how Freshaman QB Marcus Mariota performs as he has been called great by more than a few without ever playing a real game. Don't be surprised if QB Bryan Bennett ends up making a big difference for this team. The talk is always about the offense but this year's defense should be the best the Ducks have had in awhile. Safety John Boyett is back as well as a solid group of linebackers led by Michael Clay and Rose Bowl MVP Kiko Alonso. Also, don't forget about Dion Jordan and newcomer Arik Armstead on the D-Line. This team should have no problem winning 11+ games and a trip to the BCS Title Game is a legitimate possibility.
2)Washington
Washington loses some key parts but benefit from the departure of Andrew Luck at Stanford as I have them at the #2 spot in the North. QB Keith Price now has over a full year under his belt and I expect him to have a breakout year throwing to guys like TE Austin Seferian-Jenkins. If the defense can make big plays, the Huskies should be in good position to finish better than Stanford and Cal. Should be noted, however, that the Huskies will have to play all their home games away from Husky Stadium as it is renovated.
3)Cal
I switched Cal into the third spot over Stanford at the last minute and expect potential to start to bring success to the Bears. QB Zac Maynard has shown he's a talented kid and WR Keenan Allen is an underrated receiver in the Pac-12. Coach Tedford has gotten away with putting sub-par teams on the field recently and expect him to turn it around this year.
4)Stanford
Stanford has done a great job recruiting but I just don't think you can lose who they lost and still compete for a Pac-12 title. To the delight of the rest of the conference, Stanford will not be the elite team they were with Andrew Luck around. Having said that, don't expect Stanford to not be in the mix for the #2 and #3 spots in the North.
5)Washington St
With the addition of coach Mike Leach, there is a lot of excitement in Pullman. Leach brings his successful spread offense to the Cougars and I expect to QB Jeff Tuel and WR Marquis Wilson to benefit from his scheme. The team will be improved but not great yet. A bowl appearance would be classified as a major success for WSU.
6)Oregon St
I have the Beavers last in the division coach Mike Riley usually has his best teams when we least expect it. I don't see the talent to compete with the league's best but with 15 returners, the Beavers could be bowl eligible by year's end.
SOUTH
1)USC
This is the obvious choice here as USC is not only the favorite in the South but the favorite to win the entire conference and a favorite of many to win the BCS Title. This is because the AP #1 ranked team is returning almost the entire team from last year's 10 win squad. Highlighting the returners is Heisman frontrunner QB Matt Barkley. Barkley threw for 3500 yds and 39 TDs last year and will have his top two targets returning in Robert Woods and Marquis Lee. The team also returns a 1,000 yd rusher in Curtis McNeal and recently bolstered the back position by adding Penn State transfer Silas Redd. The defense will also be good, anchored by Safety TJ McDonald and LB Dion Bailey. The snag the Trojans might hit is the lack of depth. With reduced scholarships, injuries during the season may greatly affect USC's shot at the Pac-12 and BCS Titles. On the scheduling side, getting Oregon at home is nice.
2)Utah
The Utes return 15 starters and are a team that I am extremely high on. Among those returnees are QB Jordan Wynn and RB Jon White. White rushed for 1500 yards and 15 TD last year and I think has the ability and experienced O-line to be one of, if not the best running back in the conference. On defense, the line and backs will be the strength and DL Star Lotulelei is a name to watch for. Utah avoids Oregon and a Thursday meeting with USC in October could be the difference between this team finishing first or second in the division. A 10-win season is very possible and an 11 win season not out of the question.
3)UCLA
Ucla returns 16 starters and with good QB play from speedy Brett Hundley, this team should surpass the 6 win mark of last year. They avoid both Oregon and Washington and play USC in the Rose Bowl. 1000 yard rusher Jonathan Franklin and TE Joseph Fauria are going to be keys to success.
4)Arizona
I think there is some seperation between the top 3 and bottom 3 in the South division but I have Arizona bringing up the pack. I like that new coach Rich Rodriguez will have mobile QB Matt Scott to work with in the spread and I just think they will have more consistency than ASU and Colorado.
5)Arizona St
The Sun Devils return only 8 and RB Cameron Marshall may be the lone consistent star for them this season. Look for how QB Michael Eubank comes along.
6)Colorado
I think the Buffaloes are on their way up but they are still at #6 as they have a long way to go. They only have 9 returning starters and have to play on the road against Oregon and USC and have to close the season against Washington and Utah.
Predicted Finish
NORTH
1)Oregon
They officially return 11 starters but Oregon should have no problem winning the North division this year. On offense, the Ducks should be just as good as always despite losing QB Darron Thomas and RB LaMichael James. Senior RB Kenjon Barner will now be the featured back and,if healthy, should rack up atleast 1200 yards. Throw in RB/WR/KR DeAnthony Thomas and the Ducks will be hard to defend. It will be interesting to see how Freshaman QB Marcus Mariota performs as he has been called great by more than a few without ever playing a real game. Don't be surprised if QB Bryan Bennett ends up making a big difference for this team. The talk is always about the offense but this year's defense should be the best the Ducks have had in awhile. Safety John Boyett is back as well as a solid group of linebackers led by Michael Clay and Rose Bowl MVP Kiko Alonso. Also, don't forget about Dion Jordan and newcomer Arik Armstead on the D-Line. This team should have no problem winning 11+ games and a trip to the BCS Title Game is a legitimate possibility.
2)Washington
Washington loses some key parts but benefit from the departure of Andrew Luck at Stanford as I have them at the #2 spot in the North. QB Keith Price now has over a full year under his belt and I expect him to have a breakout year throwing to guys like TE Austin Seferian-Jenkins. If the defense can make big plays, the Huskies should be in good position to finish better than Stanford and Cal. Should be noted, however, that the Huskies will have to play all their home games away from Husky Stadium as it is renovated.
3)Cal
I switched Cal into the third spot over Stanford at the last minute and expect potential to start to bring success to the Bears. QB Zac Maynard has shown he's a talented kid and WR Keenan Allen is an underrated receiver in the Pac-12. Coach Tedford has gotten away with putting sub-par teams on the field recently and expect him to turn it around this year.
4)Stanford
Stanford has done a great job recruiting but I just don't think you can lose who they lost and still compete for a Pac-12 title. To the delight of the rest of the conference, Stanford will not be the elite team they were with Andrew Luck around. Having said that, don't expect Stanford to not be in the mix for the #2 and #3 spots in the North.
5)Washington St
With the addition of coach Mike Leach, there is a lot of excitement in Pullman. Leach brings his successful spread offense to the Cougars and I expect to QB Jeff Tuel and WR Marquis Wilson to benefit from his scheme. The team will be improved but not great yet. A bowl appearance would be classified as a major success for WSU.
6)Oregon St
I have the Beavers last in the division coach Mike Riley usually has his best teams when we least expect it. I don't see the talent to compete with the league's best but with 15 returners, the Beavers could be bowl eligible by year's end.
SOUTH
1)USC
This is the obvious choice here as USC is not only the favorite in the South but the favorite to win the entire conference and a favorite of many to win the BCS Title. This is because the AP #1 ranked team is returning almost the entire team from last year's 10 win squad. Highlighting the returners is Heisman frontrunner QB Matt Barkley. Barkley threw for 3500 yds and 39 TDs last year and will have his top two targets returning in Robert Woods and Marquis Lee. The team also returns a 1,000 yd rusher in Curtis McNeal and recently bolstered the back position by adding Penn State transfer Silas Redd. The defense will also be good, anchored by Safety TJ McDonald and LB Dion Bailey. The snag the Trojans might hit is the lack of depth. With reduced scholarships, injuries during the season may greatly affect USC's shot at the Pac-12 and BCS Titles. On the scheduling side, getting Oregon at home is nice.
2)Utah
The Utes return 15 starters and are a team that I am extremely high on. Among those returnees are QB Jordan Wynn and RB Jon White. White rushed for 1500 yards and 15 TD last year and I think has the ability and experienced O-line to be one of, if not the best running back in the conference. On defense, the line and backs will be the strength and DL Star Lotulelei is a name to watch for. Utah avoids Oregon and a Thursday meeting with USC in October could be the difference between this team finishing first or second in the division. A 10-win season is very possible and an 11 win season not out of the question.
3)UCLA
Ucla returns 16 starters and with good QB play from speedy Brett Hundley, this team should surpass the 6 win mark of last year. They avoid both Oregon and Washington and play USC in the Rose Bowl. 1000 yard rusher Jonathan Franklin and TE Joseph Fauria are going to be keys to success.
4)Arizona
I think there is some seperation between the top 3 and bottom 3 in the South division but I have Arizona bringing up the pack. I like that new coach Rich Rodriguez will have mobile QB Matt Scott to work with in the spread and I just think they will have more consistency than ASU and Colorado.
5)Arizona St
The Sun Devils return only 8 and RB Cameron Marshall may be the lone consistent star for them this season. Look for how QB Michael Eubank comes along.
6)Colorado
I think the Buffaloes are on their way up but they are still at #6 as they have a long way to go. They only have 9 returning starters and have to play on the road against Oregon and USC and have to close the season against Washington and Utah.
2012 NCAAF Conference Previews Part 11
-Southeastern Conference-
Predicted Finish
WEST
1)LSU
I think LSU will be just as good as last year's team and could be better if they get decent Quarterback play. The defense will be stacked and getting Alabama at home is why I have them at #1.
2)Alabama
Alabama will be good but when you read off the names that this team loses on defense it's hard not to think there will be some drop off. The Tide can win every game but I just don't see it happening.
3)Arkansas
I really want to put Arkansas ahead of Alabama but with a new coach I just cant do it. QB Tyler Wilson and RB Knile Davis will be at the helm of the league's best offense but I will keep them at #3 for now.
4)Auburn
Auburn returns 15 starters and should be good but finishing this high will depend on the offense clicking with QB Kiehl Frazier. I'll admit some of the reason I like Auburn is Frazier's resemblance, if only in appearance, to Cam Newton.
5)Texas A&M
I think they have talent to compete in the SEC but nothing tells me they will be better than last year when they won just 7 games.
6)Mississippi St
7)Ole Miss
EAST
1)Georgia
They return their QB, RB, top 2 receivers, 9 defensive starters and oh, don't have to play LSU, Alabama and Arkansas. That would sum up why they are my favorite to win the East division.
2)South Carolina
I'm not in love with the offense but I do think RB Marcus Lattimore has what it takes to carry the offense while the very good defense carries it through the season.
3)Tennessee
Probably a stretch but having them at #3 is based on me thinking Tyler Bray is going to be a really good QB and that the defense will be pretty good.
4)Florida
If Florida drops as low as I have them, people in Gainesville wont be happy. They return 17 starters and hope to actually be able to move the ball on offense this year. Many people have the Gators as a top 15 team but I dont see it.
5)Vanderbilt
I have Vandy in front of Missouri as I think coach James Franklin along with 15 returners will put this team in good position.
6)Missouri
7)Kentucky
-Player of the Year-
QB, Aaron Murray, Georgia
-Best Conference Games-
Florida vs. Georgia, Oct 27th
Tennessee @ South Carolina, Oct 27th
Alabama @ LSU, Nov 3rd
LSU @ Arkansas, Nov 23rd
Predicted Finish
WEST
1)LSU
I think LSU will be just as good as last year's team and could be better if they get decent Quarterback play. The defense will be stacked and getting Alabama at home is why I have them at #1.
2)Alabama
Alabama will be good but when you read off the names that this team loses on defense it's hard not to think there will be some drop off. The Tide can win every game but I just don't see it happening.
3)Arkansas
I really want to put Arkansas ahead of Alabama but with a new coach I just cant do it. QB Tyler Wilson and RB Knile Davis will be at the helm of the league's best offense but I will keep them at #3 for now.
4)Auburn
Auburn returns 15 starters and should be good but finishing this high will depend on the offense clicking with QB Kiehl Frazier. I'll admit some of the reason I like Auburn is Frazier's resemblance, if only in appearance, to Cam Newton.
5)Texas A&M
I think they have talent to compete in the SEC but nothing tells me they will be better than last year when they won just 7 games.
6)Mississippi St
7)Ole Miss
EAST
1)Georgia
They return their QB, RB, top 2 receivers, 9 defensive starters and oh, don't have to play LSU, Alabama and Arkansas. That would sum up why they are my favorite to win the East division.
2)South Carolina
I'm not in love with the offense but I do think RB Marcus Lattimore has what it takes to carry the offense while the very good defense carries it through the season.
3)Tennessee
Probably a stretch but having them at #3 is based on me thinking Tyler Bray is going to be a really good QB and that the defense will be pretty good.
4)Florida
If Florida drops as low as I have them, people in Gainesville wont be happy. They return 17 starters and hope to actually be able to move the ball on offense this year. Many people have the Gators as a top 15 team but I dont see it.
5)Vanderbilt
I have Vandy in front of Missouri as I think coach James Franklin along with 15 returners will put this team in good position.
6)Missouri
7)Kentucky
-Player of the Year-
QB, Aaron Murray, Georgia
-Best Conference Games-
Florida vs. Georgia, Oct 27th
Tennessee @ South Carolina, Oct 27th
Alabama @ LSU, Nov 3rd
LSU @ Arkansas, Nov 23rd
2012 NCAAF Conference Previews
-Big Ten Conference-
Predicted Finish
Leaders Division
1)Wisconsin
I don't see the Badgers being as good as they were last year but that doesn't mean they wont have a shot at ending up in the Rose Bowl. They return a Heisman finalist running back and should get good play from transfer QB Danny O'Brien. Add in a good defense and a season under 10 wins is a disappointment.
2)Ohio St
This team isn't bowl eligible but they have enough talent to be a contender in the Big Ten. Should be interesting to see how QB Braxton Miller improves with Urban Meyer now coaching.
3)Illinois
4)Purdue
5)Penn St
6)Indiana
Legends Division
1)Michigan St
I know they lose QB Kirk Cousins but they still have RB Leveon Bell and I think he will carry this team to the Big Ten Championship Game. The thing that scares me with having them this high is the schedule. The Spartans must play Michigan, Wisconsin and Nebraska three weekends in row late in the season.
2)Michigan
Michigan seems to be the favorite in the division but I have a hard time ever really buying into Denard Robinson. I like what coach Brady Hoke is doing but i'm just not sold Robinson can beat you throwing the ball.
3)Nebraska
4)Iowa
5)Minnesota
6)Northwestern
-Player of the Year-
RB, Leveon Bell, Michigan St
-Best Conference Games-
Michigan St @ Michigan, Oct 20th
Michigan St @ Wisconsin, Oct 27th
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
2012 NCAAF Conference Predictions Part 9
-Big 12 Conference-
Predicted Finish
1)Oklahoma
Oklahoma is the most talented team in the Big 12 and they have a legit shot at a top 5 finish with 15 returning starters including QB Landry Jones. I've been waiting for Jones to really have that amazing season and maybe this is the year. The top spot in the conference might rest on a trip to West Virginia in late November.
2)West Virginia
West Virginia, with a great offense led by QB Geno Smith and a good defense, will challenge for the top spot in their new league. Geno Smith threw for 4385 yds and 31 TD and is on many Heisman lists. Mention Stedman Bailey and Tavon Austin, two 1000 yard receivers, and you can see why the offense is expected to be near unstoppable. If the defense is anywhere close to the offense, watch out.
3)Texas
Texas is coming off disappointing years but will look to turn it around as they return 15 starters. Dont be surprised if they end the season in the top 12 with both good offense and defense.
4)TCU
TCU takes a step up in joining the Big 12 but something makes me think that wont hinder them too much. Look for QB Casey Pachall to have his team competitive in every game.
5)Kansas St
Many are calling for K-State to drop off drastically from last year and while I agree they wont win 10 games, I don't think theyll just roll over. Coach Bill Snyder and Do-Everything QB Colin Klein will have this team ready to go.
6)Oklahoma St
I've seen the Cowboys be picked as high as #2 in the Big 12 but i have them here at #6 mostly because of the team having to a play an 18 year old Freshman at Quarterback. This team wont come close to that top-3 finish of last year.
7)Texas Tech
8)Baylor
9)Iowa St
10)Kansas
-Player of the Year-
QB Geno Smith, WVU
-Best Conference Games-
Texas vs. Oklahoma, Oct 13th
Oklahoma @ WVU, Nov 17th
Oklahoma @ TCU, Dec 1st
Predicted Finish
1)Oklahoma
Oklahoma is the most talented team in the Big 12 and they have a legit shot at a top 5 finish with 15 returning starters including QB Landry Jones. I've been waiting for Jones to really have that amazing season and maybe this is the year. The top spot in the conference might rest on a trip to West Virginia in late November.
2)West Virginia
West Virginia, with a great offense led by QB Geno Smith and a good defense, will challenge for the top spot in their new league. Geno Smith threw for 4385 yds and 31 TD and is on many Heisman lists. Mention Stedman Bailey and Tavon Austin, two 1000 yard receivers, and you can see why the offense is expected to be near unstoppable. If the defense is anywhere close to the offense, watch out.
3)Texas
Texas is coming off disappointing years but will look to turn it around as they return 15 starters. Dont be surprised if they end the season in the top 12 with both good offense and defense.
4)TCU
TCU takes a step up in joining the Big 12 but something makes me think that wont hinder them too much. Look for QB Casey Pachall to have his team competitive in every game.
5)Kansas St
Many are calling for K-State to drop off drastically from last year and while I agree they wont win 10 games, I don't think theyll just roll over. Coach Bill Snyder and Do-Everything QB Colin Klein will have this team ready to go.
6)Oklahoma St
I've seen the Cowboys be picked as high as #2 in the Big 12 but i have them here at #6 mostly because of the team having to a play an 18 year old Freshman at Quarterback. This team wont come close to that top-3 finish of last year.
7)Texas Tech
8)Baylor
9)Iowa St
10)Kansas
-Player of the Year-
QB Geno Smith, WVU
-Best Conference Games-
Texas vs. Oklahoma, Oct 13th
Oklahoma @ WVU, Nov 17th
Oklahoma @ TCU, Dec 1st
2012 NCAAF Conference Previews Part 7
-Atlantic Coast Conference-
Predicted Finish
Atlantic Division
1)Florida State
After a 9-4 season in which high expectations weren't met, this years' version returns 17 starters and has the talent and experience to win this division and more. QB EJ Manuel should have a great year and the defense will once again be one of the best. This team should finish in the top 10.
2)Clemson
Clemson won 10 games in '11 and will pose a real threat to FSU in the ACC. Among the returnees are QB Taj Boyd, RB Andre Ellington, and WR Sammy Watkins. Boyd threw for 3800 yds and 33 TD, Ellington rushed for 1178 yards and Watkins became one of the nation's best playmakers with 1200 yds receiving.
3)NC State
This team 13 returning starters and QB Mike Glennon returns as the Wolfpack will try to match or surpass last years 8 wins.
4)Boston College
5)Maryland
6)Wake Forest
Coastal Division
1)Virginia Tech
Frank Beamer's team won 11 games in 2011 and will be aiming high this year again. Virginia Tech returns 9 starters on defense as well as QB Logan Thomas. The 6'6'' Thomas threw for 3,000 yards and rushed for over 600 and I am extremely high on him this year. If Tech's O-line improves, I think Thomas will be a Heisman finalist and the Hokies will be looking at another ACC title game berth.
2)North Carolina
The postseason ban and new coach make me worry but the return of QB Brian Renner and RB Giovani Bernard is enough to make me keep UNC in the #2 spot. The schedule really helps too.
3)Virginia
I like what is happening in Virginia with coach Mike London and i expect the upward trend to continue.
4)Georgia Tech
5)Miami
6)Duke
-Player of the Year-
QB, Logan Thomas, Virginia Tech
-Best Conference Games-
Clemson @ Florida St, Sep 22nd
Virginia Tech @ Clemson, Oct 20th
NC State @ UNC, Oct 27th
Florida St @ Virginia Tech, Nov 8th
Predicted Finish
Atlantic Division
1)Florida State
After a 9-4 season in which high expectations weren't met, this years' version returns 17 starters and has the talent and experience to win this division and more. QB EJ Manuel should have a great year and the defense will once again be one of the best. This team should finish in the top 10.
2)Clemson
Clemson won 10 games in '11 and will pose a real threat to FSU in the ACC. Among the returnees are QB Taj Boyd, RB Andre Ellington, and WR Sammy Watkins. Boyd threw for 3800 yds and 33 TD, Ellington rushed for 1178 yards and Watkins became one of the nation's best playmakers with 1200 yds receiving.
3)NC State
This team 13 returning starters and QB Mike Glennon returns as the Wolfpack will try to match or surpass last years 8 wins.
4)Boston College
5)Maryland
6)Wake Forest
Coastal Division
1)Virginia Tech
Frank Beamer's team won 11 games in 2011 and will be aiming high this year again. Virginia Tech returns 9 starters on defense as well as QB Logan Thomas. The 6'6'' Thomas threw for 3,000 yards and rushed for over 600 and I am extremely high on him this year. If Tech's O-line improves, I think Thomas will be a Heisman finalist and the Hokies will be looking at another ACC title game berth.
2)North Carolina
The postseason ban and new coach make me worry but the return of QB Brian Renner and RB Giovani Bernard is enough to make me keep UNC in the #2 spot. The schedule really helps too.
3)Virginia
I like what is happening in Virginia with coach Mike London and i expect the upward trend to continue.
4)Georgia Tech
5)Miami
6)Duke
-Player of the Year-
QB, Logan Thomas, Virginia Tech
-Best Conference Games-
Clemson @ Florida St, Sep 22nd
Virginia Tech @ Clemson, Oct 20th
NC State @ UNC, Oct 27th
Florida St @ Virginia Tech, Nov 8th
2012 NCAAF Conference Previews Part 6
-Big East Conference-
Predicted Finish
1)Pittsburgh
This would be considered a surprise but I am going with the Panthers to find a way to win the conference. Yes, Pitt has to endure yet another coaching change but I like the Wisconsin style of football they bring. They will get to work with Senior QB Tino Sunseri and RB Ray Graham who ran for 958 yards in just 8 games. Those two along with a good O-line and decent defense will have this team at the top.
2)Louisville
I have the "favorite" to finish just short. While the Cardinals bring back QB Terry Bridgewater, Im not in love with the Running back position and I question the defensive front 7.
3)USF
This team has 15 starters returning, including QB BJ Daniels, and it will be interesting to see how much they improve in coach Skip Holtz 2nd year. They will be better than last year but how much better?
4)Rutgers
5)Syracuse
6)Uconn
7)Cincinnati
8)Temple
-Player of the Year-
RB, Ray Graham, Pitt
-Best Conference Games-
USF @ Louisville, Oct 20th
Louisville @ Rutgers, Nov 24th
Pittsburgh @ USF, Dec 1st
Predicted Finish
1)Pittsburgh
This would be considered a surprise but I am going with the Panthers to find a way to win the conference. Yes, Pitt has to endure yet another coaching change but I like the Wisconsin style of football they bring. They will get to work with Senior QB Tino Sunseri and RB Ray Graham who ran for 958 yards in just 8 games. Those two along with a good O-line and decent defense will have this team at the top.
2)Louisville
I have the "favorite" to finish just short. While the Cardinals bring back QB Terry Bridgewater, Im not in love with the Running back position and I question the defensive front 7.
3)USF
This team has 15 starters returning, including QB BJ Daniels, and it will be interesting to see how much they improve in coach Skip Holtz 2nd year. They will be better than last year but how much better?
4)Rutgers
5)Syracuse
6)Uconn
7)Cincinnati
8)Temple
-Player of the Year-
RB, Ray Graham, Pitt
-Best Conference Games-
USF @ Louisville, Oct 20th
Louisville @ Rutgers, Nov 24th
Pittsburgh @ USF, Dec 1st
2012 NCAAF Conference Previews Part 5
-Mountain West Conference-
Predicted Finish
1)Boise St
The Broncos lose all-time winningest QB Kellen Moore and are pretty inexperienced but I don't see Coach Peterson letting his team drop off too much. I think this will be a well-coached top 25 team.
2)Nevada
They return QB Nick Fajardo and an O-Line that helped the Wolfpack finish 6th in total offense last year. If the defense is decent, this team will be at the top.
3)Fresno St
They play the top two teams on the road and transition with a new coach but the return of QB Derek Carr and RB Robbie Rouse are big positives. In 2011, Carr threw for 3500 yds and 26 Td while Rouse ran for 1549 yards on his way to 13 Tds.
4)Wyoming
While it may not seem so in the 4th spot, I really like this team. They return much of last years' 8-5 team and that includes QB Brett Smith. The Cowboys QB threw for 2600 yds and 20 Td and rushed for 10 more Tds gaining 700yds on the ground.
5)San Diego St
This team loses the big guns at QB and RB but i think they will be competitive and have a chance to surprise if transfer QB Ryan Katz plays to his potential. Good options at WR should help with returner Colin Lockett and USC transfer Bryce Butler heading that position while Gavin Escobar leads at TE.
6)Air Force
7)Colorado St
8)Hawaii
9)UNLV
10)New Mexico
-Player of the Year-
Rb, Robbie Rouse, Fresno St
-Best Conference Games-
Wyoming @ Nevada, Oct 6th
Fresno St @ Boise St, Oct 13th
Air Force @ SDSU, Nov 10th
Boise St @ Nevada, Dec 1st
Predicted Finish
1)Boise St
The Broncos lose all-time winningest QB Kellen Moore and are pretty inexperienced but I don't see Coach Peterson letting his team drop off too much. I think this will be a well-coached top 25 team.
2)Nevada
They return QB Nick Fajardo and an O-Line that helped the Wolfpack finish 6th in total offense last year. If the defense is decent, this team will be at the top.
3)Fresno St
They play the top two teams on the road and transition with a new coach but the return of QB Derek Carr and RB Robbie Rouse are big positives. In 2011, Carr threw for 3500 yds and 26 Td while Rouse ran for 1549 yards on his way to 13 Tds.
4)Wyoming
While it may not seem so in the 4th spot, I really like this team. They return much of last years' 8-5 team and that includes QB Brett Smith. The Cowboys QB threw for 2600 yds and 20 Td and rushed for 10 more Tds gaining 700yds on the ground.
5)San Diego St
This team loses the big guns at QB and RB but i think they will be competitive and have a chance to surprise if transfer QB Ryan Katz plays to his potential. Good options at WR should help with returner Colin Lockett and USC transfer Bryce Butler heading that position while Gavin Escobar leads at TE.
6)Air Force
7)Colorado St
8)Hawaii
9)UNLV
10)New Mexico
-Player of the Year-
Rb, Robbie Rouse, Fresno St
-Best Conference Games-
Wyoming @ Nevada, Oct 6th
Fresno St @ Boise St, Oct 13th
Air Force @ SDSU, Nov 10th
Boise St @ Nevada, Dec 1st
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
2012 NCAAF Conference Previews Part 4
-Western Athletic Conference-
Predicted Finish
1)Louisiana Tech
Tempted to put Utah St in this spot but with the Bulldogs coming off a 6-1 conference record in 2011 and returning, among others, QB Colby Cameron, I put La Tech here.
2)Utah St
If the Aggies could just be more consistent and close out games then they should be in the running for the top spot led by QB Chuckie Keeton.
3)San Jose St
The Spartans return 11 starters and should be a lock for a top 3 finish because of decent play as well as nobody behind them to challenge.
4)Idaho
5)New Mexico St
6)Texas St
7) Texas-San Antonio
-Player of the Year-
QB Colby Cameron, La Tech
-Best Conference Games-
Utah St @ San Jose St, Oct 13th
Utah St @ Louisiana Tech, Nov 17th
Predicted Finish
1)Louisiana Tech
Tempted to put Utah St in this spot but with the Bulldogs coming off a 6-1 conference record in 2011 and returning, among others, QB Colby Cameron, I put La Tech here.
2)Utah St
If the Aggies could just be more consistent and close out games then they should be in the running for the top spot led by QB Chuckie Keeton.
3)San Jose St
The Spartans return 11 starters and should be a lock for a top 3 finish because of decent play as well as nobody behind them to challenge.
4)Idaho
5)New Mexico St
6)Texas St
7) Texas-San Antonio
-Player of the Year-
QB Colby Cameron, La Tech
-Best Conference Games-
Utah St @ San Jose St, Oct 13th
Utah St @ Louisiana Tech, Nov 17th
2012 NCAAF Conference Previews Part 3
-Mid American Conference-
Predicted Finish
WEST
1)Western Michigan
The Broncos return QB Alex Carder, who threw for 3800 yds and 31TD in 2011, as well as a 4 of 5 O-lineman and should win the West division easily. Helps that they avoid the top teams from the East too.
2)Northern Illinois
NIU loses experienced QB Chandler Harnish and 6 others on offense and will rely on a good defense to be decent this year.
3)Eastern Michigan
Coming off a 6-6 season, this team will compete as they return 9 offensive starters and boast a good running game. This team wont win the division but look for improvement.
4)Central Michigan
5)Toledo
6)Ball State
EAST
1)Ohio
The Bobcats enter 2012 returning 9 defensive starters and QB Tyler Tettleton from a 10 win team a year ago. Tettleton will challenge WMU's Carder for best QB in the conference and can lead his team to another double digit win total.
2)Miami (OH)
Miami is already one of Ohio's rivals and the two teams competing for the top spot will only make this years' race better. Miami returns 16 starters and included is QB Zac Dysert. Dysert threw for 3500 yards and 23 Touchdowns in 2011.
3)Bowling Green
The Falcons were 5-7 last year but should be better as they return 17 starters.
4)Kent St
5)Buffalo
6)Akron
7)Umass
-Player of the Year-
QB Tyler Tettleton, OHIO
-Best Conference Games-
Ohio @ Miami (OH), Oct 27th
NIU @ W.Michigan, Oct 27th
E.Michigan @ Bowling Green, Oct 27th
Predicted Finish
WEST
1)Western Michigan
The Broncos return QB Alex Carder, who threw for 3800 yds and 31TD in 2011, as well as a 4 of 5 O-lineman and should win the West division easily. Helps that they avoid the top teams from the East too.
2)Northern Illinois
NIU loses experienced QB Chandler Harnish and 6 others on offense and will rely on a good defense to be decent this year.
3)Eastern Michigan
Coming off a 6-6 season, this team will compete as they return 9 offensive starters and boast a good running game. This team wont win the division but look for improvement.
4)Central Michigan
5)Toledo
6)Ball State
EAST
1)Ohio
The Bobcats enter 2012 returning 9 defensive starters and QB Tyler Tettleton from a 10 win team a year ago. Tettleton will challenge WMU's Carder for best QB in the conference and can lead his team to another double digit win total.
2)Miami (OH)
Miami is already one of Ohio's rivals and the two teams competing for the top spot will only make this years' race better. Miami returns 16 starters and included is QB Zac Dysert. Dysert threw for 3500 yards and 23 Touchdowns in 2011.
3)Bowling Green
The Falcons were 5-7 last year but should be better as they return 17 starters.
4)Kent St
5)Buffalo
6)Akron
7)Umass
-Player of the Year-
QB Tyler Tettleton, OHIO
-Best Conference Games-
Ohio @ Miami (OH), Oct 27th
NIU @ W.Michigan, Oct 27th
E.Michigan @ Bowling Green, Oct 27th
2012 NCAAF Conference Previews Part 2
-Conference USA-
Predicted Finish
WEST
1)Tulsa
Im not in love with this team but I'm banking on transfer QB Cody Green having a good enough year to propel this team past a thin but talented SMU squad and rebuilding Houston.
2)SMU
I really want to pick SMU, led by June Jones, to continue to improve and win the division but I just cant. The Mustangs get Texas Transfer QB Garret Gilbert (whom nearly led a comeback against Bama in the title game 3 yrs ago), and return 1200 yd rusher Zac Line along with 1100 yd receiver Darius Johnson. The problem is having to replace all five offensive lineman and giving Gilbert enough time to get his playmakers the ball.
3)Houston
The Cougars must replace the Head Coach, Offensive Coordinator and record breaking Quarterback Case Keenum. I have a hard time believing that Houston wont skip a beat like many others. I wouldn't be surprised if they finished higher but I think that'd be more because of a weak West division.
4)Rice
5)Utep
6)Tulane
EAST
1)UCF
If UCF can stay away from getting bored with no bowl to play for, they should finish atop the East division. The defense should carry this team until the offense, that includes some talented transfers, gets it together.
2)Southern Mississippi
Southern Mississippi comes off a great 12 win season and has to now rebuild. The bright spot should come from 4 returning O-lineman in front of some decent backs. Helps that there isn't exactly a lot of good teams to really challenge them for this spot.
3)East Carolina
This team loses an experience QB but with 7 returning defensive starters might be able to compete with UCF and Southern Mississippi. It will be interesting to see who emerges as the man at Quarterback and how the offense takes care of the ball.
4)Marshall
5)UAB
6)Memphis
-Player of the Year-
RB Zac Line, SMU
-Best Conference Games-
Houston @ SMU, Oct 20th
UCF @ Tulsa, Nov 17th
Tulsa @ SMU, Nov 24th
Predicted Finish
WEST
1)Tulsa
Im not in love with this team but I'm banking on transfer QB Cody Green having a good enough year to propel this team past a thin but talented SMU squad and rebuilding Houston.
2)SMU
I really want to pick SMU, led by June Jones, to continue to improve and win the division but I just cant. The Mustangs get Texas Transfer QB Garret Gilbert (whom nearly led a comeback against Bama in the title game 3 yrs ago), and return 1200 yd rusher Zac Line along with 1100 yd receiver Darius Johnson. The problem is having to replace all five offensive lineman and giving Gilbert enough time to get his playmakers the ball.
3)Houston
The Cougars must replace the Head Coach, Offensive Coordinator and record breaking Quarterback Case Keenum. I have a hard time believing that Houston wont skip a beat like many others. I wouldn't be surprised if they finished higher but I think that'd be more because of a weak West division.
4)Rice
5)Utep
6)Tulane
EAST
1)UCF
If UCF can stay away from getting bored with no bowl to play for, they should finish atop the East division. The defense should carry this team until the offense, that includes some talented transfers, gets it together.
2)Southern Mississippi
Southern Mississippi comes off a great 12 win season and has to now rebuild. The bright spot should come from 4 returning O-lineman in front of some decent backs. Helps that there isn't exactly a lot of good teams to really challenge them for this spot.
3)East Carolina
This team loses an experience QB but with 7 returning defensive starters might be able to compete with UCF and Southern Mississippi. It will be interesting to see who emerges as the man at Quarterback and how the offense takes care of the ball.
4)Marshall
5)UAB
6)Memphis
-Player of the Year-
RB Zac Line, SMU
-Best Conference Games-
Houston @ SMU, Oct 20th
UCF @ Tulsa, Nov 17th
Tulsa @ SMU, Nov 24th
2012 NCAAF Conference Previews Part 1
-SUN BELT CONFERENCE-
Predicted Finish
1)Florida International
FIU comes off an 8-5 season in good shape. Up and coming Head Coach Mario Cristobal has an experience O-Line, a thousand yard rusher in back Kedrick Rhodes, 5 of the 6 top receivers, and the bulk of a good defense returning. The only reason to think this team wont win the conference is the Quarterback position. There isnt much experience as the position includes redshirt sophomore Jake Medlock who was hurt last november, and two freshman.
2)Louisiana-Lafayette
Louisiana, a year removed from a 9-4 season in which they won bowl, will have what it takes to compete at the top of this conference. They return 9 offensive starters including Senior QB Blaine Gautier behind an experience O-Line and good options at running back and receiver. The offense should be fine but the defense is a question with only 4 returners and will probably determine where they will finish in the top 3.
3)Arkansas State
The new Head Coach leading this team is former Auburn Offensive Coordinator Gus Malzahn and I'm intrigued to see how he can improve the play of already talented and successful QB Ryan Aplin. The Senior QB threw for over 3,000 yds with 19 TDs and led the team in rushing. The offense should be very good but, like Louisiana, has questions on defense. If the defense gets better as the season goes on and learns from games with Oregon and Nebraska then this team might be a terror to play in conference play.
4)Western Kentucky
5)Louisiana-Monroe
6)Troy
7)Middle Tennessee State
8)North Texas
9) Florida Atlantic
10)South Alabama
-Player of the Year-
QB, Ryan Aplin, Arkansas State
-Best Conference Games-
FIU @ Louisiana, Sept 29th
Arkansas St @ FIU, OCt 4th
Arkansas St @ Louisiana, Oct 23rd
Predicted Finish
1)Florida International
FIU comes off an 8-5 season in good shape. Up and coming Head Coach Mario Cristobal has an experience O-Line, a thousand yard rusher in back Kedrick Rhodes, 5 of the 6 top receivers, and the bulk of a good defense returning. The only reason to think this team wont win the conference is the Quarterback position. There isnt much experience as the position includes redshirt sophomore Jake Medlock who was hurt last november, and two freshman.
2)Louisiana-Lafayette
Louisiana, a year removed from a 9-4 season in which they won bowl, will have what it takes to compete at the top of this conference. They return 9 offensive starters including Senior QB Blaine Gautier behind an experience O-Line and good options at running back and receiver. The offense should be fine but the defense is a question with only 4 returners and will probably determine where they will finish in the top 3.
3)Arkansas State
The new Head Coach leading this team is former Auburn Offensive Coordinator Gus Malzahn and I'm intrigued to see how he can improve the play of already talented and successful QB Ryan Aplin. The Senior QB threw for over 3,000 yds with 19 TDs and led the team in rushing. The offense should be very good but, like Louisiana, has questions on defense. If the defense gets better as the season goes on and learns from games with Oregon and Nebraska then this team might be a terror to play in conference play.
4)Western Kentucky
5)Louisiana-Monroe
6)Troy
7)Middle Tennessee State
8)North Texas
9) Florida Atlantic
10)South Alabama
-Player of the Year-
QB, Ryan Aplin, Arkansas State
-Best Conference Games-
FIU @ Louisiana, Sept 29th
Arkansas St @ FIU, OCt 4th
Arkansas St @ Louisiana, Oct 23rd
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