Ever since 2004, I have been amongst the BCS-Elitists whose slogans represent something to the effect of “Just Say No to the Non-AQ!!!” Sure, I have respected the success of Utah, Boise State, BYU, Hawaii and TCU over the past 6 years, but I was strongly against their inclusion in the BCS Bowls and in particular the National Championship discussion. So many people that argue with me on the subject continue to ask me some variation of the following question: “What… you don’t think that Boise or TCU could beat Mississippi State, Clemson, South Carolina, LSU, Arkansas, Georgia, or Alabama?”
And there within lies my problem with the entire discussion. We’ll come back to this.
Even in this season, the 3 Non-BCS powerhouses have proven their capability. TCU beat a Baylor team that now sits atop the Big 12 South. Boise beat a Virginia Tech team who is currently undefeated in the ACC. And Utah beat a Pittsburgh team which has started 3-0 in Big East league play. Right now you’re probably thinking… “exactly, so they should have the chance to play for the title.” Keep dreaming (and reading).
There is NO DOUBT in my mind this year that Boise State, Utah, and TCU could beat any team in the country on a neutral field. Heck, I even think that they could go into some of the most hostile road environments, including SEC venues, and come away with victories. But let’s change that “or” to “and” and re-ask the aforementioned question.
“Do you think that Boise or TCU could beat Mississippi State, Clemson, South Carolina, LSU, Arkansas, Georgia, and Alabama?”
The answer to that question… is an emphatic NO.
But, that is what Auburn has been asked to do this year… and so far (with a 9-0 record) they have done it.
Ohio State has been asked to beat Miami, Wisconsin, Iowa, Penn State, Michigan, Illinois, and Purdue.
Oklahoma has been asked to beat Florida State, Cincinnati, Air Force, Texas, Missouri, Iowa State, Baylor, and Oklahoma State.
Even though Oklahoma and Ohio State both slipped up once, the fact that they are attempting to navigate such a difficult schedule is the point. Week-in and week-out, the BCS conference members have to play a schedule that requires their best effort. The Non-BCS schools do not have nearly the challenge that the BCS schools do. BCS teams are asked to beat more than 1 or 2 tough opponents every year, unlike the non-BCS teams.
Ponder this. In the heart of the season (October):
Boise State played New Mexico State, Toledo, San Jose State, and Louisiana Tech.
TCU played Colorado State, Wyoming, BYU, Air Force, and UNLV.
Now, during that same stretch:
Alabama played Arkansas, Florida, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Ole Miss.
LSU played West Virginia, Tennessee, Florida, and Auburn.
Oregon played Stanford, UCLA, Washington State, and USC.
The bottom line is that these non-BCS schedules are not on par with their BCS brethren, so why should the non-BCS teams play for the same reward? Even the title of the game itself should be enough to drive home that point. It’s not called the “College Football Championship” or the “FBS National Title”. It’s called the “BCS Championship Game”. It is a reward for the top teams that come out of the BCS conferences. It’s not a reward for teams that play schedules with a strength ranking below 90th.
I have softened my stance on allowing the Non-BCS teams to participate in some of the BCS games. It is entertaining to see how a Boise or TCU matches up with some of the BCS powers every now and again. But the BCS Championship should remain reserved for schools that reside in BCS conferences. That is a question that is easy to answer.
Showing posts with label National Championship. Show all posts
Showing posts with label National Championship. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Don't Forget About Us
Who fits this profile? A non-BCS school that is undefeated, beat a pre-season BCS-conference favorite, has an average margin of victory of 30.1 pts per game, has a QB who’s pass efficiency rating is 158.7, has 2 RBs with over 300 yards, 2 WRs with 4 TDs each, and ranked in the Top 10 in the first BCS Standings of the season. If you answered Boise State or TCU, you’re dead wrong.
The only team that fits that profile is the Utah Utes. So why is it that only Boise and TCU are getting the talk about BCS crashers? Utah beat #15 ranked (at the time) Pittsburgh to start the season, and has since had blowout wins over Iowa State, UNLV, and Wyoming among others. Sure, Pittsburgh has sputtered a bit, but so has Virginia Tech (who Boise beat in week 1) and so has Oregon State (who TCU beat in Week 1). Virginia Tech lost to FCS James Madison and Oregon State now has 3 losses on the season. Since their week 1 overtime win, no team has been within 24 points of the Utes after the final buzzer. They are so deep in the roster, that when their starting QB was injured for 2 games, the backup (Terrance Cain) came in and threw for 496 yards, 5 TDs, and 0 ints.
Prior to the start of the season, Boise State had gotten all of the love. The Broncos have seemed to become the “People’s Champ” as almost everyone wants to see them get an opportunity to play for a championship… but I contend that the wrong team is being promoted.
A quick history lesson is in order. Most people continue to look at Boise’s miracle win over Oklahoma in the 2007 Fiesta Bowl as the “arrival” of the Non-Automatic Qualifying schools. But, much like Utah is being forgotten about by voters, experts, and fans this season, America seems to forget that it was actually the Utes who were the original BCS Busters. In 2004, the Urban Meyer led Utes finished 13-0 and won the Fiesta Bowl over Big East Champion Pittsburgh. And then 4 years later, that same Utah team finished unbeaten again and beat a 12-1 Alabama Crimson Tide team by 14 in the Sugar Bowl.
Of course by this point in the article, some of you are thinking “but Boise has the best chance to make it”. To borrow a line from my favorite sports analyst (Lee Corso), not so fast my friend. For the remainder of the season, Boise doesn’t play a single ranked team. The one team that was supposed to give them trouble and possibly be ranked (Nevada) lost last weekend to Hawaii. On the other hand, Utah still plays #5 ranked TCU (at home, nonetheless) and they also face Air Force (who was ranked #23 last week) and Notre Dame, who should be 6-3 at the time of the contest. If Utah finds a way to win all 3 of those games and then finish with wins over solid San Diego State and BYU teams, the Utes will have a great chance at passing Boise in the standings.
Boise State and TCU are great programs, and they deserve our respect, but if any team deserves to be the first Non-automatic qualifier to play for the BCS Championship, it should be the team that started it all back in 2004 (Utah), not the teams that have ridden the coattails of Utah’s success (Boise and TCU).
So, while everyone out there continues to tout the successes of TCU and Boise State, I implore you… don’t forget about the Utes.
The only team that fits that profile is the Utah Utes. So why is it that only Boise and TCU are getting the talk about BCS crashers? Utah beat #15 ranked (at the time) Pittsburgh to start the season, and has since had blowout wins over Iowa State, UNLV, and Wyoming among others. Sure, Pittsburgh has sputtered a bit, but so has Virginia Tech (who Boise beat in week 1) and so has Oregon State (who TCU beat in Week 1). Virginia Tech lost to FCS James Madison and Oregon State now has 3 losses on the season. Since their week 1 overtime win, no team has been within 24 points of the Utes after the final buzzer. They are so deep in the roster, that when their starting QB was injured for 2 games, the backup (Terrance Cain) came in and threw for 496 yards, 5 TDs, and 0 ints.
Prior to the start of the season, Boise State had gotten all of the love. The Broncos have seemed to become the “People’s Champ” as almost everyone wants to see them get an opportunity to play for a championship… but I contend that the wrong team is being promoted.
A quick history lesson is in order. Most people continue to look at Boise’s miracle win over Oklahoma in the 2007 Fiesta Bowl as the “arrival” of the Non-Automatic Qualifying schools. But, much like Utah is being forgotten about by voters, experts, and fans this season, America seems to forget that it was actually the Utes who were the original BCS Busters. In 2004, the Urban Meyer led Utes finished 13-0 and won the Fiesta Bowl over Big East Champion Pittsburgh. And then 4 years later, that same Utah team finished unbeaten again and beat a 12-1 Alabama Crimson Tide team by 14 in the Sugar Bowl.
Of course by this point in the article, some of you are thinking “but Boise has the best chance to make it”. To borrow a line from my favorite sports analyst (Lee Corso), not so fast my friend. For the remainder of the season, Boise doesn’t play a single ranked team. The one team that was supposed to give them trouble and possibly be ranked (Nevada) lost last weekend to Hawaii. On the other hand, Utah still plays #5 ranked TCU (at home, nonetheless) and they also face Air Force (who was ranked #23 last week) and Notre Dame, who should be 6-3 at the time of the contest. If Utah finds a way to win all 3 of those games and then finish with wins over solid San Diego State and BYU teams, the Utes will have a great chance at passing Boise in the standings.
Boise State and TCU are great programs, and they deserve our respect, but if any team deserves to be the first Non-automatic qualifier to play for the BCS Championship, it should be the team that started it all back in 2004 (Utah), not the teams that have ridden the coattails of Utah’s success (Boise and TCU).
So, while everyone out there continues to tout the successes of TCU and Boise State, I implore you… don’t forget about the Utes.
Monday, October 18, 2010
What If there was no Laptop?
One Evening. One panicked 19-year old kid. One mistake. One suspension. One transfer. A struggling (4-3) football team. A program in turmoil. A coach in stress. A nation in despair. All because of one laptop.
Anybody that says that 1 player doesn’t make or break a football team hasn’t seen players like Peyton Manning, Tim Tebow, Ray Lewis, and Chris Johnson play. Sure, it’s a team sport and you have to have solid players at every position to be competitive. But, the difference in being a (4-3) unranked team searching for answers in the brink of disaster and being a (7-0) 4th ranked team on a National Championship run can rest in 1-player. Don’t believe me? Just ask Urban Meyer and Gene Chizik. Both nationally recognized college football coaches, for Florida and Auburn respectively, have had their fortunes change because of one player… and more specifically, one laptop computer.
Cameron Jerrell Newton was a highly touted recruit out of Atlanta, Ga. Following his senior season of High School, he signed a letter of intent to play for Meyer and the Florida Gators. He was immediately tabbed as the QB of the future who would take the reigns after Tim Tebow departed. He showed flashed of his amazing athleticism and ability in a backup role in 2007. He was redshirted during the 2008 season in order to preserve eligibility, but late in the year something off the football field would change his life and the life of Gator fans everywhere. Newton was arrested for allegedly stealing another students laptop computer. When police arrived to question him, he threw that laptop out of his dorm window. Though he was never convicted, Meyer suspended Newton indefinitely. Instead of being labeled the “QB of the future” he was demoted to 3rd string and some thought he would never get out of Meyer’s doghouse. When Newton left the team in January of 2009, it didn’t create much of a blip on the radar. The Gators had just won a 2nd BCS Championship in 3 years and Tim Tebow and Brandon Spikes had just announced that they’d be returning for their Senior seasons. All was well in Gator Nation.
While Newton trudged along during his unheralded 2009 stint at Blinn Junior College in Texas, Gator nation rode the wave of continued success going 13-1 and winning the Sugar Bowl. Nobody could imagine what 2010 would bring. Dan Mullen (Florida’s former offensive coordinator and current Mississippi St. head coach) as well as Charlie Strong (former Gator Defensive coordinator and current Louisville head coach) both tried to lure Newton to their programs following his JUCO campaign, which tells you that there clearly wasn’t a character issue with the young man. But Newton, longing for the big time, decided to enroll at Auburn University and his decision couldn’t have been better.
Let’s compare 2 quarterbacks that will remain nameless for now. QB “A” has thrown for 1,266 yards, rushed for (minus) 52 yards and has 6 total TDs so far this year. QB “B” has thrown for 1,278 yards, rushed for 860 yards, and accounted for 25 TDs. More importantly, QB B’s team is undefeated and he is leading the national Heisman prediction talk through 7 weeks. I’m sure you can deduce that the QB A is Florida’s John Brantley and QB B is Cam Newton.
Its not that Brantley is a bad QB. He has a solid arm and is a decent athlete. But the fact is that he is not made for Urban Meyer’s system in ANY way. But just glance at 2 or 3 Newton highlights from this season, and its clear that not only would he have flourished in Meyer’s spread option attack, he was practically built for it. In what has become a progressively less bold statement based on Newton’s weekly exploits, it is safe to say that the Florida Gators would not only be undefeated had Newton stayed, but they would be the clear cut favorites in the SEC and on the path to a 3rd national title in 5 years. Instead, that SEC favorite distinction currently belongs to an Auburn Tigers team that limped to a 7-5 regular season record last season, with only 3 conference wins.
This Saturday, as the Gators have a bye week following the program’s first 3-game losing streak since 1988, #4 ranked Auburn’s Cam Newton takes center stage in a showdown with the Top rated defense of #6 ranked LSU. Some Gator fans, may want to tune in and watch the highly anticipated SEC West matchup. But, for Meyer, current Gator players, coaches, fans, and all of “Gator Nation” I would suggest against it… because if they tune in, they will see the best player in College Football and wonder “what if”. What if that evening never happened? What if there was no suspension? What if there was no transfer? What if that 19-year old kid didn’t panic? What if……. there was no laptop?
Anybody that says that 1 player doesn’t make or break a football team hasn’t seen players like Peyton Manning, Tim Tebow, Ray Lewis, and Chris Johnson play. Sure, it’s a team sport and you have to have solid players at every position to be competitive. But, the difference in being a (4-3) unranked team searching for answers in the brink of disaster and being a (7-0) 4th ranked team on a National Championship run can rest in 1-player. Don’t believe me? Just ask Urban Meyer and Gene Chizik. Both nationally recognized college football coaches, for Florida and Auburn respectively, have had their fortunes change because of one player… and more specifically, one laptop computer.
Cameron Jerrell Newton was a highly touted recruit out of Atlanta, Ga. Following his senior season of High School, he signed a letter of intent to play for Meyer and the Florida Gators. He was immediately tabbed as the QB of the future who would take the reigns after Tim Tebow departed. He showed flashed of his amazing athleticism and ability in a backup role in 2007. He was redshirted during the 2008 season in order to preserve eligibility, but late in the year something off the football field would change his life and the life of Gator fans everywhere. Newton was arrested for allegedly stealing another students laptop computer. When police arrived to question him, he threw that laptop out of his dorm window. Though he was never convicted, Meyer suspended Newton indefinitely. Instead of being labeled the “QB of the future” he was demoted to 3rd string and some thought he would never get out of Meyer’s doghouse. When Newton left the team in January of 2009, it didn’t create much of a blip on the radar. The Gators had just won a 2nd BCS Championship in 3 years and Tim Tebow and Brandon Spikes had just announced that they’d be returning for their Senior seasons. All was well in Gator Nation.
While Newton trudged along during his unheralded 2009 stint at Blinn Junior College in Texas, Gator nation rode the wave of continued success going 13-1 and winning the Sugar Bowl. Nobody could imagine what 2010 would bring. Dan Mullen (Florida’s former offensive coordinator and current Mississippi St. head coach) as well as Charlie Strong (former Gator Defensive coordinator and current Louisville head coach) both tried to lure Newton to their programs following his JUCO campaign, which tells you that there clearly wasn’t a character issue with the young man. But Newton, longing for the big time, decided to enroll at Auburn University and his decision couldn’t have been better.
Let’s compare 2 quarterbacks that will remain nameless for now. QB “A” has thrown for 1,266 yards, rushed for (minus) 52 yards and has 6 total TDs so far this year. QB “B” has thrown for 1,278 yards, rushed for 860 yards, and accounted for 25 TDs. More importantly, QB B’s team is undefeated and he is leading the national Heisman prediction talk through 7 weeks. I’m sure you can deduce that the QB A is Florida’s John Brantley and QB B is Cam Newton.
Its not that Brantley is a bad QB. He has a solid arm and is a decent athlete. But the fact is that he is not made for Urban Meyer’s system in ANY way. But just glance at 2 or 3 Newton highlights from this season, and its clear that not only would he have flourished in Meyer’s spread option attack, he was practically built for it. In what has become a progressively less bold statement based on Newton’s weekly exploits, it is safe to say that the Florida Gators would not only be undefeated had Newton stayed, but they would be the clear cut favorites in the SEC and on the path to a 3rd national title in 5 years. Instead, that SEC favorite distinction currently belongs to an Auburn Tigers team that limped to a 7-5 regular season record last season, with only 3 conference wins.
This Saturday, as the Gators have a bye week following the program’s first 3-game losing streak since 1988, #4 ranked Auburn’s Cam Newton takes center stage in a showdown with the Top rated defense of #6 ranked LSU. Some Gator fans, may want to tune in and watch the highly anticipated SEC West matchup. But, for Meyer, current Gator players, coaches, fans, and all of “Gator Nation” I would suggest against it… because if they tune in, they will see the best player in College Football and wonder “what if”. What if that evening never happened? What if there was no suspension? What if there was no transfer? What if that 19-year old kid didn’t panic? What if……. there was no laptop?
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
#1 Alabama Crimson Tide
The defending National Champion Alabama Crimson Tide have earned the top billing in the GURU’s Pre-season poll partly due to talent and partly due to respect. Nick Saban has resurrected the success of his predecessors Bear Bryant and Gene Stallings and has turned Alabama back into a perennial National Title contender.
The Crimson Tide return the most experienced offense in the SEC. 8 starters return and that group is led by Heisman Trophy winner Mark Ingram. Ingram will be shooting to be only the 2nd player in history to grab 2 of the prestigious award. Interestingly, one of his teammates may prevent him from having a legitimate shot at that honor. Back-up RB Trent Richardson teams with Ingram to create one of the most talented backfields in the nation. While Ingram had a mammoth year in 2009 gaining 1,658 yards and scoring 17 TDs, Richardson tallied an impressive 751 yards and 8 TDs… numbers that would be impressive for a starter in the SEC. It wouldn’t surprise me if both guys went over 1,000 yards this year.
At QB, the consistent and un-flashy Greg McIlroy returns to lead the offense. His 14-0 record in 2009 came as a bit of a surprise, and now there will be more pressure put on him to perform at the high standard that SEC quarterbacks are judged by. His 2,508 yards in 2009 were in the middle of the SEC pack, but the fact that he only threw 4 ints was key in Alabama being able to execute its ball control attack.
AT WR, the Tide have Julio Jones, arguably the best athlete in the country, returning. He started 2009 in the familiar “sophomore slump”. He was double-teamed for much of the year as he watched Ingram carry the load. Jones’ 596 yards was far below what was expected of him, but after healing some lingering injuries, he looks to reclaim his place as the SEC’s most talented WR in 2010. Marquis Maze will line up opposite Jones to create one of the better tandems in the south. While TE is a position of concern, the Tide can take solace in the fact that they return 2 of the best Offensive Linemen in the conference in James Carpenter and Barrett Jones.
This is where the “respect” part of my ranking process comes into play. The Tide only return 3 starters on defense, which would normally be a red flag that would knock a team down in my rankings, but I have long been a proponent of the saying “They are the Kings until they are dethroned.” Last I checked Alabama hasn’t lost a game in over 19 months, so they retain the top spot in my poll. Those 3 returning defensive starters are LB Dont’a Hightower, and safeties Mark Barron and Robbie Green. DL Marcell Dareus showed his worth in the National Championship game with his effective QB pressure that included an interception for a TD. The CB position will worry Coach Saban all year, but if he can identify 2 solid starters prior to the late September matchup with Ryan Mallett and the Razorbacks, then the Tide should be OK.
The schedule will provide a daunting challenge for Alabama. After a Week 1 cupcake, the Tide host Joe Paterno and the Penn State Nittany Lions. A Week 4, 5, 6 gauntlet of Arkansas, Florida, and South Carolina will truly determine how good this Bama team will be. They have a challenging October that includes Tennessee and Ole Miss and then start November with a contest against LSU at Death Valley in Baton Rouge. Then, as always, they close the year against a tough Auburn squad that could be in position to win the SEC West themselves.
Although Alabama is talented at every position and potentially explosive on offense, I simply don’t think that they can navigate such a tough schedule with such an inexperienced defense. I expect the Crimson Tide to be in position for a BCS Bowl berth, but a back-to-back National Championship appears out of reach.
Key Returning Players:
QB Greg McIlroy
RB Mark Ingram
RB Trent Richardson
WR Julio Jones
OT James Carpenter
DL Marcell Dareus
LB Don’t’s Hightower
S Mark Barron
Key Games:
Sept 11 - Penn State
Sept 25 - @ Arkansas
Oct 2 - Florida
Oct 9 - @South Carolina
Nov 6 - @ LSU
Nov 26 - Auburn
The Crimson Tide return the most experienced offense in the SEC. 8 starters return and that group is led by Heisman Trophy winner Mark Ingram. Ingram will be shooting to be only the 2nd player in history to grab 2 of the prestigious award. Interestingly, one of his teammates may prevent him from having a legitimate shot at that honor. Back-up RB Trent Richardson teams with Ingram to create one of the most talented backfields in the nation. While Ingram had a mammoth year in 2009 gaining 1,658 yards and scoring 17 TDs, Richardson tallied an impressive 751 yards and 8 TDs… numbers that would be impressive for a starter in the SEC. It wouldn’t surprise me if both guys went over 1,000 yards this year.
At QB, the consistent and un-flashy Greg McIlroy returns to lead the offense. His 14-0 record in 2009 came as a bit of a surprise, and now there will be more pressure put on him to perform at the high standard that SEC quarterbacks are judged by. His 2,508 yards in 2009 were in the middle of the SEC pack, but the fact that he only threw 4 ints was key in Alabama being able to execute its ball control attack.
AT WR, the Tide have Julio Jones, arguably the best athlete in the country, returning. He started 2009 in the familiar “sophomore slump”. He was double-teamed for much of the year as he watched Ingram carry the load. Jones’ 596 yards was far below what was expected of him, but after healing some lingering injuries, he looks to reclaim his place as the SEC’s most talented WR in 2010. Marquis Maze will line up opposite Jones to create one of the better tandems in the south. While TE is a position of concern, the Tide can take solace in the fact that they return 2 of the best Offensive Linemen in the conference in James Carpenter and Barrett Jones.
This is where the “respect” part of my ranking process comes into play. The Tide only return 3 starters on defense, which would normally be a red flag that would knock a team down in my rankings, but I have long been a proponent of the saying “They are the Kings until they are dethroned.” Last I checked Alabama hasn’t lost a game in over 19 months, so they retain the top spot in my poll. Those 3 returning defensive starters are LB Dont’a Hightower, and safeties Mark Barron and Robbie Green. DL Marcell Dareus showed his worth in the National Championship game with his effective QB pressure that included an interception for a TD. The CB position will worry Coach Saban all year, but if he can identify 2 solid starters prior to the late September matchup with Ryan Mallett and the Razorbacks, then the Tide should be OK.
The schedule will provide a daunting challenge for Alabama. After a Week 1 cupcake, the Tide host Joe Paterno and the Penn State Nittany Lions. A Week 4, 5, 6 gauntlet of Arkansas, Florida, and South Carolina will truly determine how good this Bama team will be. They have a challenging October that includes Tennessee and Ole Miss and then start November with a contest against LSU at Death Valley in Baton Rouge. Then, as always, they close the year against a tough Auburn squad that could be in position to win the SEC West themselves.
Although Alabama is talented at every position and potentially explosive on offense, I simply don’t think that they can navigate such a tough schedule with such an inexperienced defense. I expect the Crimson Tide to be in position for a BCS Bowl berth, but a back-to-back National Championship appears out of reach.
Key Returning Players:
QB Greg McIlroy
RB Mark Ingram
RB Trent Richardson
WR Julio Jones
OT James Carpenter
DL Marcell Dareus
LB Don’t’s Hightower
S Mark Barron
Key Games:
Sept 11 - Penn State
Sept 25 - @ Arkansas
Oct 2 - Florida
Oct 9 - @South Carolina
Nov 6 - @ LSU
Nov 26 - Auburn
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
#2 Ohio State Buckeyes
Say what you want about the Ohio State Buckeyes. Hate them, love them. It doesn’t matter. Jim Tressel has created arguably the most consistent program in the country. And with the recent struggles of USC, Ohio State now holds the top streak with 5 consecutive BCS Bowl game appearances (including 2 National Championship appearances). And this year, the expectations are as high as they’ve ever been in Columbus.
Junior QB Tyrelle Pryor has had hype built for his Junior year ever since he first signed with the Buckeyes back in the spring of 2008. He earned the starting QB job early in the 2008 season which led to high expectations for his sophomore year. Even with his 2,094 yards passing and 779 yards rushing, the opinion was that he had somehow underachieved. All of the skepticism was erased on January 1st when he torched Oregon for 266 yards passing and 72 yards rushing en route to earning Rose Bowl MVP honors. Coach Tressel couldn’t have drawn up a better springboard into the 2010 season for his prized QB. Pryor has all of the potential and talent to win the Heisman and lead Ohio State to a National Championship, but only time will tell if what we saw in Pasadena was the norm or an aberration.
The Buckeyes bring back an impressive 10 starters on offense. The Backfield is highlighted by the return of Senior Brandon Saine and Junior Dan “Boom” Herron. They have emerged as one of the best 2-back combos in the country. Saine had 739 yards while Herron added 600. Redshirt Freshman and Top 2009 recruit Jaamal Berry should also enter the mix and provide some big plays on the ground.
At WR, two of the better performers in the Big Ten return in Devier Posey and Dane Sanzenbacher. Many experts are touting Posey as a possible first round selection as he is getting many comparisons to former Buckeye great, Santonio Holmes.
All 5 starting Offensive Linemen return, including All-Conference selection Justin Boren. The Tight End position is the only offensive area of inexperience of the starting 11. Jake Stoneburner looks to nab the starting spot after not playing much last year.
Defensively, there has become an expectation of excellence from the Buckeyes and that doesn’t appear to be lost on this year’s team. Six starters return to a group that ranked in the Top 2 in all major Big Ten categories in 2009. Experienced Senior CBs Chimdi Chekwa and Devon Torrence give Defensive Coordinator Jim Heacock the ability to blitz on any down while knowing that the big play wont be given up. Safety Jermale Hines will roam the middle. 2009 All-Conference performer Ross Homan will be the beneficiary of the multiple blitzes as he looks to be in contention for the coveted Butkus Award. On the line, DE Cameron Heyward is among the best in the nation.
The Buckeye schedule is probably the easiest of any of the Top 10 teams, which bodes well for a Championship run. An early Week 2 matchup against the Miami Hurricanes will be the gage that determines how far this team goes. Outside of the Miami game, the Buckeyes might not even be challenged in their first 6 contests which include games against Ohio, Marshall, and Eastern Michigan. A mid-October trip to Wisconsin presents a potential stumbling block. But the Buckeyes have a great chance to enter their final three games with an unblemished record. Those final 3 games are against Penn State, Iowa, and Michigan, so all eyes will be on the Scarlet and Gray starting on November 13. Even with a loss to Miami, the Buckeyes would have a great chance at finding their way to the BCS Championship game. Anything less than 11 wins should be considered a disappointment.
Key Returning Players:
QB Tyrelle Pryor
RB Brandon Saine
RB Dan Herron
WR Devier Posey
OG Justin Boren
DE Cameron Heyward
LB Ross Homan
CB Chimdi Chekwa
CB Devon Torrence
Key Games:
Sept 11 - Miami
Oct 16 - @ Wisconsin
Nov 13 - Penn State
Nov 20 - @ Iowa
Nov 27 - Michigan
Junior QB Tyrelle Pryor has had hype built for his Junior year ever since he first signed with the Buckeyes back in the spring of 2008. He earned the starting QB job early in the 2008 season which led to high expectations for his sophomore year. Even with his 2,094 yards passing and 779 yards rushing, the opinion was that he had somehow underachieved. All of the skepticism was erased on January 1st when he torched Oregon for 266 yards passing and 72 yards rushing en route to earning Rose Bowl MVP honors. Coach Tressel couldn’t have drawn up a better springboard into the 2010 season for his prized QB. Pryor has all of the potential and talent to win the Heisman and lead Ohio State to a National Championship, but only time will tell if what we saw in Pasadena was the norm or an aberration.
The Buckeyes bring back an impressive 10 starters on offense. The Backfield is highlighted by the return of Senior Brandon Saine and Junior Dan “Boom” Herron. They have emerged as one of the best 2-back combos in the country. Saine had 739 yards while Herron added 600. Redshirt Freshman and Top 2009 recruit Jaamal Berry should also enter the mix and provide some big plays on the ground.
At WR, two of the better performers in the Big Ten return in Devier Posey and Dane Sanzenbacher. Many experts are touting Posey as a possible first round selection as he is getting many comparisons to former Buckeye great, Santonio Holmes.
All 5 starting Offensive Linemen return, including All-Conference selection Justin Boren. The Tight End position is the only offensive area of inexperience of the starting 11. Jake Stoneburner looks to nab the starting spot after not playing much last year.
Defensively, there has become an expectation of excellence from the Buckeyes and that doesn’t appear to be lost on this year’s team. Six starters return to a group that ranked in the Top 2 in all major Big Ten categories in 2009. Experienced Senior CBs Chimdi Chekwa and Devon Torrence give Defensive Coordinator Jim Heacock the ability to blitz on any down while knowing that the big play wont be given up. Safety Jermale Hines will roam the middle. 2009 All-Conference performer Ross Homan will be the beneficiary of the multiple blitzes as he looks to be in contention for the coveted Butkus Award. On the line, DE Cameron Heyward is among the best in the nation.
The Buckeye schedule is probably the easiest of any of the Top 10 teams, which bodes well for a Championship run. An early Week 2 matchup against the Miami Hurricanes will be the gage that determines how far this team goes. Outside of the Miami game, the Buckeyes might not even be challenged in their first 6 contests which include games against Ohio, Marshall, and Eastern Michigan. A mid-October trip to Wisconsin presents a potential stumbling block. But the Buckeyes have a great chance to enter their final three games with an unblemished record. Those final 3 games are against Penn State, Iowa, and Michigan, so all eyes will be on the Scarlet and Gray starting on November 13. Even with a loss to Miami, the Buckeyes would have a great chance at finding their way to the BCS Championship game. Anything less than 11 wins should be considered a disappointment.
Key Returning Players:
QB Tyrelle Pryor
RB Brandon Saine
RB Dan Herron
WR Devier Posey
OG Justin Boren
DE Cameron Heyward
LB Ross Homan
CB Chimdi Chekwa
CB Devon Torrence
Key Games:
Sept 11 - Miami
Oct 16 - @ Wisconsin
Nov 13 - Penn State
Nov 20 - @ Iowa
Nov 27 - Michigan
Monday, August 9, 2010
#3 Miami Hurricanes
Da U is back!!! At least, that is the prediction. The “surprise team” of my Top 25 lands at #3. A lot of people will look at this and think I’m crazy. But wait until after reading to pass judgment.
Coach Randy Shannon brings back the most talented bunch of his 4-year tenure back to South Beach as he attempts to win his first ACC Title and lead Miami to a BCS Bowl game for the first time since 2003. A quick review of recent Hurricane history shows Shannon’s development and recruiting process paying off in a gradual increase in victories: 5 (2007), 7 (2008), 9 (2009)… so it gives credence to an expectation of 11 wins in 2010.
QB Jacory Harris returns as an All-Conference caliber passer and is on the short list for the Heisman Trophy. The Miami native threw for 3,352 yards and 24 TDs in 2009. His confidence soared and was often unshaken as he surprised even his biggest pre-season skeptics. Some of that skepticism was realized, however, due to Harris accounting for over 20 turnovers, including 17 Ints. That is a number that MUST be kept down in order for Miami to have a realistic shot at winning the conference.
The backfield is one of the most talent-laden in the nation. 5 four-star or higher caliber recruits populate this unit, including Damien Berry (616 yards and 8 TDs), Lamar Miller, Storm Johnson, Graig Cooper, and Mike James. Cooper suffered a knee injury in the Bowl game in December, but has made solid progress and hopes to return to the field after posting 695 yards in 2009.
With the recent dismissal of Florida State’s Jarmon Fortson, Miami now holds the banner as the undisputed best WR group in the ACC. Leonard Hankerson leads the way after grabbing 45 receptions for 801 yards in 2009. Speedster Travis Benjamin joins him as the Hurricanes #1 Big Play threat. LaRon Byrd, Aldarius Johnson, and Thearon Collier also return to give the unit unmatched depth. 3 starters come back to the offensive line, and incoming Freshman Tackle Seantrel Hendersen (Top rated Offensive Lineman in the 2010 recruiting class) has a chance to impact the field immediately. The Miami offense has all of the pieces of the puzzle that will allow them to be one of the most potent in the nation.
Defensively, the ‘Canes bring back 9 starters, including 3 All-ACC selections. DE Allen Bailey is rated by most experts as a sure-fire 1st rounder in next April’s draft. Coach Shannon has often called him the “most athletic player on our team”. LBs Colin McCarthy and Sean Spence have a chance to remind people of the Vilma/Williams combination from 2002. The secondary returns all 4 starters including All-Conference CB Brandon Harris. Safties Vaughn Telemaque and Ray Ray Armstrong will cause nightmares for ACC QBs with their ability to swarm the middle of the field. Kicker Matt Bosher also returns after nailing 88% of his field goals in 2009.
The one area that scares me about the Hurricanes 2010 season is an area that they cannot control. Miami will have one of, if not the, toughest schedules in America. After a tune-up against FAMU, Miami faces Ohio State in Columbus in a game that many are calling the Game of the Year. They follow that matchup with 2 more road games against Big East Favorite Pittsburgh and perennial ACC power Clemson. They return home for a clash with rival Florida State and then 2 weeks later face North Carolina, who is predicted to have one of the best defenses in the country. If that weren’t enough, they end the season with 3 consecutive games against former ACC Champions Georgia Tech and Virginia Tech, and Big East stalwart South Florida.
The road to a BCS Bowl is long and hard. 11 wins is not out of the question, but there is practically no room for error for this 2010 squad. The resurrection of “Da U” starts now.
Key Returning Players:
QB Jacory Harris
RB Damien Berry
RB Graig Cooper
WR Leonard Hankerson
WR Travis Benjamin
DE Allen Bailey
LB Sean Spence
LB Colin McCarthy
CB Brandon Harris
Key Games:
Sept 11 - @ Ohio State
Sept 23 - @ Pittsburgh
Oct 2 - @ Clemson
Oct 9 - Florida State
Oct 23 - North Carolina
Nov 13 - @ Georgia Tech
Nov 20 - Virginia Tech
Coach Randy Shannon brings back the most talented bunch of his 4-year tenure back to South Beach as he attempts to win his first ACC Title and lead Miami to a BCS Bowl game for the first time since 2003. A quick review of recent Hurricane history shows Shannon’s development and recruiting process paying off in a gradual increase in victories: 5 (2007), 7 (2008), 9 (2009)… so it gives credence to an expectation of 11 wins in 2010.
QB Jacory Harris returns as an All-Conference caliber passer and is on the short list for the Heisman Trophy. The Miami native threw for 3,352 yards and 24 TDs in 2009. His confidence soared and was often unshaken as he surprised even his biggest pre-season skeptics. Some of that skepticism was realized, however, due to Harris accounting for over 20 turnovers, including 17 Ints. That is a number that MUST be kept down in order for Miami to have a realistic shot at winning the conference.
The backfield is one of the most talent-laden in the nation. 5 four-star or higher caliber recruits populate this unit, including Damien Berry (616 yards and 8 TDs), Lamar Miller, Storm Johnson, Graig Cooper, and Mike James. Cooper suffered a knee injury in the Bowl game in December, but has made solid progress and hopes to return to the field after posting 695 yards in 2009.
With the recent dismissal of Florida State’s Jarmon Fortson, Miami now holds the banner as the undisputed best WR group in the ACC. Leonard Hankerson leads the way after grabbing 45 receptions for 801 yards in 2009. Speedster Travis Benjamin joins him as the Hurricanes #1 Big Play threat. LaRon Byrd, Aldarius Johnson, and Thearon Collier also return to give the unit unmatched depth. 3 starters come back to the offensive line, and incoming Freshman Tackle Seantrel Hendersen (Top rated Offensive Lineman in the 2010 recruiting class) has a chance to impact the field immediately. The Miami offense has all of the pieces of the puzzle that will allow them to be one of the most potent in the nation.
Defensively, the ‘Canes bring back 9 starters, including 3 All-ACC selections. DE Allen Bailey is rated by most experts as a sure-fire 1st rounder in next April’s draft. Coach Shannon has often called him the “most athletic player on our team”. LBs Colin McCarthy and Sean Spence have a chance to remind people of the Vilma/Williams combination from 2002. The secondary returns all 4 starters including All-Conference CB Brandon Harris. Safties Vaughn Telemaque and Ray Ray Armstrong will cause nightmares for ACC QBs with their ability to swarm the middle of the field. Kicker Matt Bosher also returns after nailing 88% of his field goals in 2009.
The one area that scares me about the Hurricanes 2010 season is an area that they cannot control. Miami will have one of, if not the, toughest schedules in America. After a tune-up against FAMU, Miami faces Ohio State in Columbus in a game that many are calling the Game of the Year. They follow that matchup with 2 more road games against Big East Favorite Pittsburgh and perennial ACC power Clemson. They return home for a clash with rival Florida State and then 2 weeks later face North Carolina, who is predicted to have one of the best defenses in the country. If that weren’t enough, they end the season with 3 consecutive games against former ACC Champions Georgia Tech and Virginia Tech, and Big East stalwart South Florida.
The road to a BCS Bowl is long and hard. 11 wins is not out of the question, but there is practically no room for error for this 2010 squad. The resurrection of “Da U” starts now.
Key Returning Players:
QB Jacory Harris
RB Damien Berry
RB Graig Cooper
WR Leonard Hankerson
WR Travis Benjamin
DE Allen Bailey
LB Sean Spence
LB Colin McCarthy
CB Brandon Harris
Key Games:
Sept 11 - @ Ohio State
Sept 23 - @ Pittsburgh
Oct 2 - @ Clemson
Oct 9 - Florida State
Oct 23 - North Carolina
Nov 13 - @ Georgia Tech
Nov 20 - Virginia Tech
Friday, August 6, 2010
#4 Texas Longhorns
In one of the most disappointing games in Longhorn history, Texas fans had to watch their back-up QB try to win the National Championship game for them after Heisman finalist Colt McCoy was injured on the first drive of the game. While the loss was devastating for the program, there were 2 people that left Pasadena last January with a slight smirk on their faces: Mack Brown and Garrett Gilbert.
Spring and Fall practice, along with summer workouts and late night film sessions are all great ways for a first-year starter to prepare. But is there any better preparation than a 3 hour scrimmage against one of the best defenses of the decade (Alabama 2009)? That’s an advantage that Garrett Gilbert, the new Longhorns starting QB, was blessed with after the McCoy injury. And while Texas lost the game, the experience and confidence that Gilbert gained are sure to pay dividends immediately in the 2010 season. A 5-star recruit in the 2009 class, Gilbert has a chance to splash onto the scene and be one of the best QBs in the Big 12 conference right away.
The running game has been a point of emphasis for the Longhorns in preparation for the 2010 season. Last year, they ranked a disappointing 61st nationally in rushing. Their leading rusher, Tre’ Newton, only had 513 yards on the season. Colt McCoy finished as their #2 leading rusher… never a good sign for an offense. Three players who have started (Newton, Vondrell McGee, and Fozzy Whitaker) are returning in the Longhorn backfield and that bodes well for the statistics. Mack Brown has also said in many offseason interviews that he will place Gilbert under center (vice the spread shotgun attack that McCoy made famous), which will allow for more “downhill running” out of the I-formation.
At WR, James Kirkendoll burst onto the scene last year with a breakout performance. His 48 receptions and 6 TDs leads all returning WRs. Joining him will be the lanky Junior Malcolm Williams and former QB-turned-WR John Chiles. The offensive line may be a point of contention for Texas, as only 2 starters return to a unit that (as stated earlier) underachieved in opening holes for its RBs.
Defensively, the Longhorns have made a habit of producing top notch talent year in and year out. 2010 should be no exception. Under the leadership of the always fiery “Coach-in-Waiting” and Defensive Coordinator Will Muschamp, Texas has elevated its already dominant play on that side of the ball. DE Sam Acho should continue in the line of great lineman to play at Texas. His size/speed/strength combination is similar to that of his predecessors Brian Orakpo and Sergio Kindle. Keenan Robinson anchors the middle at LB, and the secondary should be amongst the best in the country with S Blake Gideon, CB Curtis Brown, CB Chykie Brown, and Nickel Back Aaron Williams (a possible 1st round draft pick) leading the way.
The Texas schedule is once again conducive to a strong run at the always lofty BCS goals. They open the season with Rice and Wyoming before a 4 game stretch that includes games against Texas Tech, UCLA, Oklahoma, and Nebraska, with the later 2 being amongst the most anticipated 2010 matchups in the nation. They finish the season against 6 teams that should not be ranked, although in-state foes Baylor and Texas A&M should present a formidable challenge.
The Big 12 should be more competitive than its ever been, highlighted by the Big 3 (Nebraska, Texas, Oklahoma), but I see no reason why Texas wont earn a 3rd straight BCS berth. The back to back games against Oklahoma and Nebraska will be the difference between the Holiday Bowl and a BCS game.
Key Returning Players:
QB Garrett Gilbert
RB Tre’ Newton
WR James Kirkendoll
WR Malcolm Williams
OT Kyle Hix
DE Sam Acho
CB Aaron Williams
CB Chykie Brown
S Blake Gideon
Key Games:
Sept 18 - @ Texas Tech
Sept 25 - UCLA
Oct 2 - Oklahoma (in Dallas)
Oct 16 - @ Nebraska
Nov 25 - Texas A&M
Spring and Fall practice, along with summer workouts and late night film sessions are all great ways for a first-year starter to prepare. But is there any better preparation than a 3 hour scrimmage against one of the best defenses of the decade (Alabama 2009)? That’s an advantage that Garrett Gilbert, the new Longhorns starting QB, was blessed with after the McCoy injury. And while Texas lost the game, the experience and confidence that Gilbert gained are sure to pay dividends immediately in the 2010 season. A 5-star recruit in the 2009 class, Gilbert has a chance to splash onto the scene and be one of the best QBs in the Big 12 conference right away.
The running game has been a point of emphasis for the Longhorns in preparation for the 2010 season. Last year, they ranked a disappointing 61st nationally in rushing. Their leading rusher, Tre’ Newton, only had 513 yards on the season. Colt McCoy finished as their #2 leading rusher… never a good sign for an offense. Three players who have started (Newton, Vondrell McGee, and Fozzy Whitaker) are returning in the Longhorn backfield and that bodes well for the statistics. Mack Brown has also said in many offseason interviews that he will place Gilbert under center (vice the spread shotgun attack that McCoy made famous), which will allow for more “downhill running” out of the I-formation.
At WR, James Kirkendoll burst onto the scene last year with a breakout performance. His 48 receptions and 6 TDs leads all returning WRs. Joining him will be the lanky Junior Malcolm Williams and former QB-turned-WR John Chiles. The offensive line may be a point of contention for Texas, as only 2 starters return to a unit that (as stated earlier) underachieved in opening holes for its RBs.
Defensively, the Longhorns have made a habit of producing top notch talent year in and year out. 2010 should be no exception. Under the leadership of the always fiery “Coach-in-Waiting” and Defensive Coordinator Will Muschamp, Texas has elevated its already dominant play on that side of the ball. DE Sam Acho should continue in the line of great lineman to play at Texas. His size/speed/strength combination is similar to that of his predecessors Brian Orakpo and Sergio Kindle. Keenan Robinson anchors the middle at LB, and the secondary should be amongst the best in the country with S Blake Gideon, CB Curtis Brown, CB Chykie Brown, and Nickel Back Aaron Williams (a possible 1st round draft pick) leading the way.
The Texas schedule is once again conducive to a strong run at the always lofty BCS goals. They open the season with Rice and Wyoming before a 4 game stretch that includes games against Texas Tech, UCLA, Oklahoma, and Nebraska, with the later 2 being amongst the most anticipated 2010 matchups in the nation. They finish the season against 6 teams that should not be ranked, although in-state foes Baylor and Texas A&M should present a formidable challenge.
The Big 12 should be more competitive than its ever been, highlighted by the Big 3 (Nebraska, Texas, Oklahoma), but I see no reason why Texas wont earn a 3rd straight BCS berth. The back to back games against Oklahoma and Nebraska will be the difference between the Holiday Bowl and a BCS game.
Key Returning Players:
QB Garrett Gilbert
RB Tre’ Newton
WR James Kirkendoll
WR Malcolm Williams
OT Kyle Hix
DE Sam Acho
CB Aaron Williams
CB Chykie Brown
S Blake Gideon
Key Games:
Sept 18 - @ Texas Tech
Sept 25 - UCLA
Oct 2 - Oklahoma (in Dallas)
Oct 16 - @ Nebraska
Nov 25 - Texas A&M
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
#5 Boise State Broncos
The 2010 Boise State Broncos are primed and ready to make one of the most historic runs in College Football history. That might sound familiar because in 2006, the Broncos broke through the BCS stronghold and earned a Fiesta Bowl berth. Not only did they earn that berth, but they finished their season with a shocking Overtime win against BCS Power Oklahoma. Well, 4 years later, the Broncos have a chance to do what no non-BCS team has done before: Win the National Championship.
Boise State brings back the most starting players of any team in America: 21. The only departure from last years starting ranks was CB Kyle Wilson. Leading the Bronco offense will be Junior QB Kellen Moore. Moore, a 3rd year starter, finished 2nd (to Tim Tebow) in the nation in Pass Efficiency in 2009, largely due to his 39 to 3 TD to Int ratio. Moore is on the short list for the Heisman Trophy and everyone expects him to have a great year. The only cause for concern comes from the fact that against Boise’s 5 toughest opponents last season, Moore had his lowest passing totals. While some may brush this off as not a big deal, I tend to believe that in order for the Broncos to run the table, Moore has got to be more consistent in Big Games… something that has plagued him in his first 2 seasons.
At the skill positions, the Broncos have top-notch talent everywhere. RB Jeremy Avery was an All-Conference selection in 2009 after rushing for 1,150 yards. WRs Austin Pettis and Titus Young highlight a group that has the speed and size to outplay most units around the country. Young hauled in 79 passes, while Pettis brought in another 63. The entire offensive line is back and all are Juniors or Seniors.
Defensively, 4 All-Conference performers return. The defensive line is highlighted by Senior DE Ryan Winterswyk. DT Billy Wynn brings a sizeable force to the middle of the front 4. LBs Daron Mackey and Aaron Tevis are solid run-stoppers, but must increase their range in pass coverage against some of the better passing attacks they will face. Safety Jeron Johnson is the leader of the secondary. With the effective pass rush that should highlight the Broncos defense all season, expect Johnson to have plenty of opportunities for interceptions. The lone vacated starting position, CB, will need to be effectively replaced early, as the Broncos 2 toughest games come in September.
In previous seasons, the Broncos have managed to stay “under the radar” for various reasons. But 2010 will place Boise in uncharted water. Starting the season in the Top 5 puts an entirely new target on their backs. And that target will be quickly shot at in Week 1 as the Broncos travel across the country to play the Virginia Tech Hokies. There is no bigger “make or break” game for any team in America. Win that game and the Broncos have a legitimate shot at earning a spot in the BCS Championship game. Lose that game, and not only will they miss out on the National Championship game, but they would likely be erased from the entire BCS picture. The only other major hurdle for the Broncos would be a Week 4 clash with Oregon State.
While I think the Broncos are going to be one of the most talented teams in the country, I cant see them beating ACC Power Virginia Tech. This will be the first team to ever have a devastatingly disappointing 11-1 season.
Key Returning Players:
QB Kellen Moore
RB Jeremy Avery
WR Austin Pettis
WR Titus Young
OT Nate Potter
DE Ryan Winterswyk
S Jeron Johnson
Key Games:
Sept 6 - Virginia Tech (in Washington D.C.)
Sept 25 - Oregon State
Oct 26 - Louisiana Tech
Nov 19 - Fresno State
Nov 26 - @ Nevada
Boise State brings back the most starting players of any team in America: 21. The only departure from last years starting ranks was CB Kyle Wilson. Leading the Bronco offense will be Junior QB Kellen Moore. Moore, a 3rd year starter, finished 2nd (to Tim Tebow) in the nation in Pass Efficiency in 2009, largely due to his 39 to 3 TD to Int ratio. Moore is on the short list for the Heisman Trophy and everyone expects him to have a great year. The only cause for concern comes from the fact that against Boise’s 5 toughest opponents last season, Moore had his lowest passing totals. While some may brush this off as not a big deal, I tend to believe that in order for the Broncos to run the table, Moore has got to be more consistent in Big Games… something that has plagued him in his first 2 seasons.
At the skill positions, the Broncos have top-notch talent everywhere. RB Jeremy Avery was an All-Conference selection in 2009 after rushing for 1,150 yards. WRs Austin Pettis and Titus Young highlight a group that has the speed and size to outplay most units around the country. Young hauled in 79 passes, while Pettis brought in another 63. The entire offensive line is back and all are Juniors or Seniors.
Defensively, 4 All-Conference performers return. The defensive line is highlighted by Senior DE Ryan Winterswyk. DT Billy Wynn brings a sizeable force to the middle of the front 4. LBs Daron Mackey and Aaron Tevis are solid run-stoppers, but must increase their range in pass coverage against some of the better passing attacks they will face. Safety Jeron Johnson is the leader of the secondary. With the effective pass rush that should highlight the Broncos defense all season, expect Johnson to have plenty of opportunities for interceptions. The lone vacated starting position, CB, will need to be effectively replaced early, as the Broncos 2 toughest games come in September.
In previous seasons, the Broncos have managed to stay “under the radar” for various reasons. But 2010 will place Boise in uncharted water. Starting the season in the Top 5 puts an entirely new target on their backs. And that target will be quickly shot at in Week 1 as the Broncos travel across the country to play the Virginia Tech Hokies. There is no bigger “make or break” game for any team in America. Win that game and the Broncos have a legitimate shot at earning a spot in the BCS Championship game. Lose that game, and not only will they miss out on the National Championship game, but they would likely be erased from the entire BCS picture. The only other major hurdle for the Broncos would be a Week 4 clash with Oregon State.
While I think the Broncos are going to be one of the most talented teams in the country, I cant see them beating ACC Power Virginia Tech. This will be the first team to ever have a devastatingly disappointing 11-1 season.
Key Returning Players:
QB Kellen Moore
RB Jeremy Avery
WR Austin Pettis
WR Titus Young
OT Nate Potter
DE Ryan Winterswyk
S Jeron Johnson
Key Games:
Sept 6 - Virginia Tech (in Washington D.C.)
Sept 25 - Oregon State
Oct 26 - Louisiana Tech
Nov 19 - Fresno State
Nov 26 - @ Nevada
Thursday, July 29, 2010
#8 North Carolina Tar Heels
A lot of people will say that I have this team too highly ranked because of the NCAA Investigation, the lack of a star QB, the lack of star offensive skill position players, etc. But to those skeptics, I would simply say one thing:
DEFENSE WINS CHAMPIONSHIPS!!!
Head Coach Butch Davis brings back by far the best Defense in America in Chapel Hill. On most of these previews, I have started with the offense, but when a defense is as good as this, they deserve the headlines.
In all, the Heels return 6 All-Conference players on defense. Defensive Linemen Robert Quinn and Marvin Austin highlight the trenches. Austin finished 2009 with 6 Tackles for Loss and 4 sacks. LBs Bruce Carter and Quan Sturdivant anchor the 2nd level. Carter has started in 26 consecutive games while Sturdivant led the nation in unassisted tackles in 2008 with 87. In the secondary, Safety Deunta Williams was a standout in 2009 with 47 tackles, 6 ints, and 8 pass break-ups. Joining him as a First-Team All-ACC member in 2009 was CB Kendrick Burney who has started all 38 games since he stepped foot on the UNC campus. Believe it or not, all 6 of the aforementioned players are projected as first-rounders in the 2011 NFL Draft. They are joined by 4 other returning defensive starters that make up a unit that has the potential to hold ALL of their opponents to single digits.
While the defense highlights the squad, the offense has made strides in the Spring and QB TJ Yates has gotten much respect for the way he fended off the challenge of Freshman 4-star recruit Bryn Renner. Generally, Yates was not bad last year, throwing for 2,100 yards and 14 TDs. But his 15 Ints has Tar Heel nation wary.
Yates, however, will benefit from the return of all 10 starters (other than himself) on Offense, giving the Tar Heels undoubtedly the most experienced group in the conference, if not the country. Starting RB Shaun Draughn will enjoy the familiarity of running behind the veteran Carolina Offensive Line while backup Ryan Houston should expect at least 150 touches as well. At WR, Senior Greg Little’s 724 yards receiving and 166 yards rushing leads the pack. His playmaking ability is unmatched on the team, but his attitude has come into question following several on and off-field incidents in 2009. Maturity will be the key to his level of contribution this year.
All-ACC Kicker Casey Barth also returns. He is considered one of the best in America at his position and his 80% accuracy on Field Goals over 40 yards last year corroborates those claims. His consistency will be key for the Heels in close games throughout the year.
The schedule is going to be a grueling one. In the opening week, the Tar Heels face SEC Powerhouse LSU in Atlanta. They follow that with back to back games against Defending ACC Champion Georgia Tech and Big East stalwart Rutgers. October brings tough matchups with Clemson and Miami, while November brings back to back clashes with Florida State and Virginia Tech.
On Paper, the Tar Heels would be my pick for the National Title. The one thing that I feel they are missing is the experience of being a favorite. This recent Football success is new for the program, so until they can navigate their way through the first 5 games unblemished, I will hold judgment. However, it would not surprise me one bit to see Butch Davis’s crew in Glendale, AZ on the night of January 10th playing for the Championship.
Key Returning Players:
DT Marvin Austin
DE Robert Quinn
LB Bruce Carter
LB Quan Sturdivant
S Deunta Williams
CB Kendrick Burney
QB T.J. Yates
WR Greg Little
RB Shaun Draughn
OT Greg Elleby
Key Games:
Sept 4 - LSU (in Atlanta)
Sept 18 - Georgia Tech
Sept 25 - @ Rutgers
Oct 9 - Clemson
Oct 23 - @ Miami
Nov 6 - @ Florida State
Nov 13 - Virginia Tech
DEFENSE WINS CHAMPIONSHIPS!!!
Head Coach Butch Davis brings back by far the best Defense in America in Chapel Hill. On most of these previews, I have started with the offense, but when a defense is as good as this, they deserve the headlines.
In all, the Heels return 6 All-Conference players on defense. Defensive Linemen Robert Quinn and Marvin Austin highlight the trenches. Austin finished 2009 with 6 Tackles for Loss and 4 sacks. LBs Bruce Carter and Quan Sturdivant anchor the 2nd level. Carter has started in 26 consecutive games while Sturdivant led the nation in unassisted tackles in 2008 with 87. In the secondary, Safety Deunta Williams was a standout in 2009 with 47 tackles, 6 ints, and 8 pass break-ups. Joining him as a First-Team All-ACC member in 2009 was CB Kendrick Burney who has started all 38 games since he stepped foot on the UNC campus. Believe it or not, all 6 of the aforementioned players are projected as first-rounders in the 2011 NFL Draft. They are joined by 4 other returning defensive starters that make up a unit that has the potential to hold ALL of their opponents to single digits.
While the defense highlights the squad, the offense has made strides in the Spring and QB TJ Yates has gotten much respect for the way he fended off the challenge of Freshman 4-star recruit Bryn Renner. Generally, Yates was not bad last year, throwing for 2,100 yards and 14 TDs. But his 15 Ints has Tar Heel nation wary.
Yates, however, will benefit from the return of all 10 starters (other than himself) on Offense, giving the Tar Heels undoubtedly the most experienced group in the conference, if not the country. Starting RB Shaun Draughn will enjoy the familiarity of running behind the veteran Carolina Offensive Line while backup Ryan Houston should expect at least 150 touches as well. At WR, Senior Greg Little’s 724 yards receiving and 166 yards rushing leads the pack. His playmaking ability is unmatched on the team, but his attitude has come into question following several on and off-field incidents in 2009. Maturity will be the key to his level of contribution this year.
All-ACC Kicker Casey Barth also returns. He is considered one of the best in America at his position and his 80% accuracy on Field Goals over 40 yards last year corroborates those claims. His consistency will be key for the Heels in close games throughout the year.
The schedule is going to be a grueling one. In the opening week, the Tar Heels face SEC Powerhouse LSU in Atlanta. They follow that with back to back games against Defending ACC Champion Georgia Tech and Big East stalwart Rutgers. October brings tough matchups with Clemson and Miami, while November brings back to back clashes with Florida State and Virginia Tech.
On Paper, the Tar Heels would be my pick for the National Title. The one thing that I feel they are missing is the experience of being a favorite. This recent Football success is new for the program, so until they can navigate their way through the first 5 games unblemished, I will hold judgment. However, it would not surprise me one bit to see Butch Davis’s crew in Glendale, AZ on the night of January 10th playing for the Championship.
Key Returning Players:
DT Marvin Austin
DE Robert Quinn
LB Bruce Carter
LB Quan Sturdivant
S Deunta Williams
CB Kendrick Burney
QB T.J. Yates
WR Greg Little
RB Shaun Draughn
OT Greg Elleby
Key Games:
Sept 4 - LSU (in Atlanta)
Sept 18 - Georgia Tech
Sept 25 - @ Rutgers
Oct 9 - Clemson
Oct 23 - @ Miami
Nov 6 - @ Florida State
Nov 13 - Virginia Tech
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