Prelude to a Season... #1

#1.) Florida

What You Need to Know: Florida. Oh, Florida. Florida isn't sneaky. They aren't tricky. There are no hidden questions that will crop up as the year progresses. Florida is simply Florida. And the questions that are there, those that bring pause to folks wanting to declare them the favorite to lift a BCS Title come January, are well known. They aren't secretive. They will demand answers for the Gators to win Urban Meyer's second BCS crown at the school.

The question is one letter. D. If the Gators' defense performs even moderately well, the Gators will win the national championship. Take a moment... let that sink in. Not Ohio State. Not Georgia. Not USC, Oklahoma, BYU, Ball State, or anyone else. The only team that will prevent Florida from winning the championship will be Florida.

Anyone remotely knowledgeable about college football will tell you that last year's 9-4 team was significantly better than 9-4 on the offensive side of the ball. Undefeated? A National Title? Probably not. But certainly better than the 9-4 record indicates. Most of those same people will tell you that the defense, and specifically the secondary, were responsible for an overwhelming majority of the reasons for the "4" and truthfully, played a whole lot worse than 9-4.

Florida, usually known for a bruising high-speed defense, forced only 11 INTs and 20 total turnovers on their way to being ranked 98th out of 119 in pass defense and 6th in the nation in penalties. The line gave no pressure, the secondary didn't cover, and the tackles weren't hard enough to force drops or fumbles. What made the matter worse was that opponents converted nearly 42% of their third downs. That means by the end of the game, you have a defense that is overworked, winded, and tired... that was mediocre to begin with. Another defensive performance like that and the Gators will be fighting for 3rd in the SEC East.

But it's not all Hemlock Tea with a side of anti-freeze in Gainesville. The Gators return 16 starters, including Heisman Trophy winner and circumcisor extraordinaire, Tim Tebow. That's right... Tebow spent his time away from football cutting off Thai foreskins. Jesus. F'ing. Christ. Verne Lunquist's head just exploded.

Tebow. Tebow! TEBOW! AIGIGHHGG

Anyone who has seen Tebow play knows he completely changes the defensive gameplan and is a threat unlike any other in college football. Hard throwing, hard running, hard hitting, and built like a baby gorilla, Tebow provides consistent leadership and performance to an offense in need of firepower to overcome their defensive counterparts. Tebow doesn't do it alone, though, as a slew of talented backs and receivers pace Meyer's spread attack. All are Florida fast, and all have the potential to outrun nearly any coverage in the country. The offensive line returns three starters who drove the Gators to the third-best rushing attack in the conference at nearly 200 ypg.

On the aforementioned defensive side, nothing is set. Even junior MLB Brandon Spikes has to come into his own and improve his level of play. And this was a young man who earned All-SEC honors last year as the league's second-leading tackler. Spikes needs to find his leadership role on this defense, and along with coordinator Charlie Strong, perform like the talent on the two-deep indicates. The secondary, the unit most gashed last season, is a year older, and hopefully for Florida, a year better. They've had 6 months to smart after a solid ass kicking at the hands of Michigan in the Capital One Bowl, where the Gators gave up 524 yards of offense. This defense has to prove itself, and assuming they do, watch out.

The schedule for Florida is tough but manageable. Unlike their SEC East and Top 5 brethren Georgia, the Gators do not have an out of conference game against a tough opponent. Their 4 OOC games (Hawaii, Miami, Citadel, @Florida State) are all winnable. Critical SEC opponent LSU comes to the Swamp, but most troubling are road games (if you count Jacksonville as a road game) against Tennessee and Georgia. Huge games. Must wins.

Who You Need to Know and Their 07 Stats:
QB Tim Tebow: 3286 pass yds, 32 pass TD, 895 rush yds, 23 rush TD
RB Percy Harvin: 764 rush yds, 6 rush TD, 59 rec, 858 yds, 4 rec TD
MLB Brandon Spikes: 131 tkls, 16 TFL, 1.5 sacks, 3 FR, 1 FF

Game To Watch: While Florida hopes to win the National Championship they must first win the SEC Championship. And before doing that, they must win the SEC East. Two games are must win for the Gators... September 20th at Tennessee and November 1st against Georgia in Jacksonville.

They'll Do Well If...: Like several other teams in this Top 25, defense is the key for the Gators this year. A performance like last year will have them out of the title hunt before the season really kicks into high gear. If the defense can step up, force turnovers, hold teams on 3rd downs, and provide even moderately decent pass coverage, this team will be a special one.

Season Outlook: The Gators begin this season as the team to beat in this blog's poll. The UT game on 9/20 will tell the world all they need to know about this Florida team. A win means it's a very real possibility that when the Gators and Georgia meet it could be #1 vs. #2, with the winner in the driver's seat for the national championship. Look for Florida to drop a game in conference in the regular season, but rebound to take the SEC Title, and defeat the Ohio State Buckeyes in the BCS Title Game. Final Record: 13-1

Prelude to a Season... #2

#2.) USC

What You Need to Know: USC is still USC. That should be enough to justify a #2 ranking and being a contender for the BCS title. In case you've been asleep for the past 6 years, let's recap shall we?

6 straight conference titles. 6 straight BCS Bowls. 6 straight seasons of 11 or more wins. 6 straight years being ranked Top 4 to close the season. A final tally of 70 wins, 8 losses, and 2 National Titles. Oh yeah... those came back-to-back. Suffice to say, USC has been the belle of this ball for going on the last decade.

What's changed in South Central? Quite a bit actually. The Trojans lose 11 starters, and they weren't the starters who didn't really matter (like their whole wideout corp). They were impact players and defensive standouts. How impactful were they? 7 of them were taken in the first two rounds of the NFL draft.

Questions abound around USC. In such a strange offseason, highlighted by a pesky outbreak of jock itch, many wonder if USC's stranglehold on good fortune, positive karma, or what have you has come to an end. Stud RB Joe McKnight injured his hand in a freak accident when his dorm door was closed on it. He then hyperextended his elbow in a scrimmage. Newly minted QB Mark Sanchez suffered a dislocated kneecap in practice. This is not the way USC wanted to begin its bid for a title.

The questions reside exclusively on offense, as the Trojans have an untested QB, untested RB, an under performing class of wideouts, and an offensive line that is big, fast, strong, and completely unknown. They replace 4 of 5 starters on the O-line, and if this team doesn't gel quick and effectively, it could be a long season for Trojan faithful.

What is giving folks optimism and hope is the defense. You will not find a better defensive 11 anywhere in the country. Top to bottom, and all over the two-deep depth chart are players that are extremely athletic, extremely talented, and extremely good. Offensive woes or not, this defense will keep the Trojans in any game and allow for mistakes and miscues from a green offensive unit, something that will benefit USC greatly as this season advances.

Who You Need to Know and Their 07 Stats:
DT Fili Moala: 32 tkls, 5.5 TFL, 2.5 sacks
LB Rey Maualuga: 79 tkls, 10.5 TFL, 6 sacks, INT
SS Kevin Ellison: 57 tkls, 8 TFL, 2 sacks, 2 INT, 2 FF

Game To Watch: The game that everyone has had circled in red on their calendar since schedules were announced has been September 13th. However, with the hype, the quality of the opponents, even a loss will not destroy USC's chance to make it to the BCS title game. Any other loss would be devastating. Outside the OSU game, the Trojans' toughest tests are back to back on October 4 and October 11 against Oregon and Arizona State. Both those games are in the Coliseum, and both should be wins for the Trojans. Every other game will have USC a heavy favorite. Their most challenging road game comes at the conclusion of the season when they travel to UCLA.

They'll Do Well If...: The Trojans will do well if the offensive line comes together and allows Sanchez and a bevy of running backs to make plays. The Trojans will do great if they win the games they should.

Season Outlook: While it's true that USC could rebound from a loss against the Buckeyes, a win would mean USC could be staring an undefeated season square in the face. Despite the game being at home for the Trojans, it's a loss, though much closer than many expect. They'll run the table the rest of the way, though there will be scares. The Notre Dame and UCLA games will be much closer than many expect, and the Arizona State and Oregon games will be shootouts that come down to the wire. In the end, USC is USC, and they'll pick up their seventh straight Pac 10 championship and seventh straight BCS appearance. They'll finish the year 11-1 and will wait for the computers to spit out the participants of the BCS title game.

Prelude to a Season... #3

#3.) Georgia

What You Need to Know: It stands to reason that a preseason poll can take one of two forms. The first is a ranking of teams based on talent. Clearly as you move up the poll, each position gained means more talent on the field. The second approach is trying to predict where these teams will finish at the conclusion of the year. This poll is more so a hybrid of the two. Georgia is without question the most talented team in the country. Pair them against any team in a best-of-five, and Georgia walks away with the series win, bar none. Do I think Georgia will be bringing hardware back to Athens, though? I do not. And I do not believe that Georgia will even be playing for the chance to engrave their name on another trophy.

Much has been made about Georgia's schedule and the brutality of it. The six-game stretch in conference play that features Alabama, LSU, Tennessee, and Florida. An unusual out-of-conference game against a Top 15 opponent on the road against Arizona State. They have trap games at South Carolina and at Kentucky, and quite frankly, I don't think there is any chance of this team running the table. In fact, to be so bold, it's a good bet Georgia won't be in the SEC title game and may finish tied for second in their division.

The Dawgs have all the pieces, though. One of the best head coaches in the business, Mark Richt, enters his 8th season as Georgia head coach. He's 72-19 during his tenure, including three SEC East titles and two SEC conference titles. They also have the talent, 17 starters returning, and a two-deep depth chart that rivals any in the country. They have experienced leadership in Matthew Stafford, a distinct homefield advantage in Sanford Stadium, and a fanbase that expects excellence and demands a title. And that's what scares me. The road is littered with potential potholes, the expectations are suffocating, and Georgia's season may be "over" before they even hit conference play.

Who You Need to Know and Their 07 Stats:
QB Matthew Stafford: 2523 yds, 19 TD
RB Knowshon Moreno: 1334 yds, 14 TD
DT Geno Atkins: 14.5 TFL, 7.5 sacks

Game To Watch: There are four games which will decide Georgia's fate this season. Two on the road, two at home. The Florida and Tennessee games are must wins. Both are at home, and both are divisional opponents. Arizona State and Auburn are both on the road, and will provide the Bulldogs an opportunity to make their claim at a national title. Win them both, along with UF and UT, and the Bulldogs will be celebrating their school's 4th national title.

They'll Do Well If...: The offensive line gains experience and confidence early. The Bulldogs can cope with the extreme amount of expectations, pressure, and scrutiny. Stafford makes plays throughout the game, not simply when his team is down and needing a miracle.

Season Outlook: This season is eerily reminiscent of 2004. Loaded Georgia team, expected to contend for the national title, and all that slipped away when they lost to Tennessee between the hedges. Expect Georgia to win a close game against Arizona State, but they'll finish the year 9-3 with all three losses coming in conference (Florida, Auburn, Tennessee). Georgia is still one of the most talented teams in the country, but this schedule and this conference is simply too tough for the Bulldogs to manage.

Prelude to a Season... #4

#4.) Oklahoma

What You Need to Know: Oklahoma, much like it does every year has all the pieces in place for a Championship season. For one, they have experienced and talented players. The Sooners return 27 players with starting experience. Leading the charge offensively for them is QB Sam Braford, a sophomore who shattered nearly every freshman record at OU. He led the country in pass efficiency, and set the NCAA record for TD passes by a freshman by 7. Oklahoma plans to go with a two-back system to share the workload at tailback, and DeMarco Murray and Chris Brown have big play explosiveness and great blitz pick ups. Defensively the Sooners are paced by DE Austin English. The junior finished 2007 with an All Big 12 selection and 9.5 sakcs, despite missing the final 3 games due to injury. Losses will be felt, especially when considering the amount of OU talent now playing on Sundays in the NFL, but like any team at this level, the two-deep is loaded with talent, and almost anyone on the roster is capable of being a serviceable starter.

The second piece of OU's puzzle is coaching, and Bob Stoops is certainly one of the nation's best. The knock on Stoops is his inability to win the Big Game, losing two of the three BCS title games they have played in. However, most coaches never even make an appearance in said game. While at OU (9 years), Stoops has racked up a 97-22 record and his teams have played in 6 of the last 9 Big 12 title games, winning 5 of them, including the last two.

The final piece of OU's potential BCS run is scheduling. Their out of conference games are wickedly simple (Chattanooga, Cincinnati, @Washington, TCU) and their biggest conference games (Texas, Kansas, Texas Tech) are all at home. It all adds up to the necessary ingredients for Stoops and co. to bring some hardware back to Norman. Now it all rests on execution.

Who You Need to Know and Their 07 Stats:
QB Sam Bradford: 3121 yds, 36 TD
DeMarco Murray: 764 yds, 13 TD
DE Austin English: 9.5 sacks

Game To Watch: If you're looking for the game circled in red on both team's calendar, it's Texas on October 11. A win means OU is the likely Big 12 South champ. A loss will be devastating to not only their national title hopes, but also their conference title hopes.

They'll Do Well If...: Bradford continues to turn heads as a sophomore, the way he did his first season under center. Should a win versus Texas occur, the Sooners need to be mindful of letdown against Kansas the following week.

Season Outlook: I fully expect Oklahoma to win the Big 12 South, but don't count out a strong Texas team. Having said that, should OU run the table (which they are capable of) they are a lock for the BCS title game. I think it more likely, though, that OU stumbles somewhere along the way. If not against Texas, then perhaps against Texas Tech. Even with one-loss they are the frontrunner for the Big 12 South (unless that 1 loss is to the Longhorns) and a very strong contender for the BCS title game. What Stoops and co. do when they get there is anyone's guess.

Prelude to a Season... #5

#5.) Ohio State

What You Need to Know: I'm a little concerned about what exactly to do with Ohio State. #5 seems low, when in comparison to what they bring to the table. 18 starters returning from an 11-2 team that played in the last two National Championships. They return a Heisman front-runner in RB Beanie Wells, defensive stalwarts who were projected first-round NFL draft picks (LB James Laurinaitis and CB Malcolm Jenkins), they are riding a three-straight season streak of 10 wins or more, and have finished the last three years ranked 6th or better. They play in a storied, but somewhat down Big Ten, and save for one large game at an injured and depleted USC, their out of conference schedule is predictably lackluster.

What else? Their head coach Jim Tressel sports a 73-16 record while he's coached the Buckeyes, earning three straight Big Ten titles, and a National Championship in 2002. In case you forgot, the Bucks also picked up prize recruit and consensus #1 prospect in Terrelle Pryor, the only player in Pennsylvania high school history to run and pass for over 4000 career yards. Everything about this screams, "Rank us high".

But then there's the x-factors. Sort of that uncanny thing that lingers like the Taco Bell aftertaste. Last season, Ohio State was eerily similar to this year. Loaded with talent, but smarting after an asskicking at the hands of an SEC powerhouse where OSU looked overmatched, outplayed, and mediocre at best. In the spring of 2007, OSU was coming off the 41-14 loss to Florida. This year, it's a 38-24 loss to 2-loss LSU which gave the Tigers the national title. This may be their year, sure. But until I see otherwise, I have to believe that OSU will simply be OSU. Run the table in the Big Ten, only to get their brains beat in by a better, stronger, faster SEC or Big 12 school in the National Championship. All of that screams, "Rank me low".

Do I think the Buckeyes will be in the National Championship game? I absolutely do. Do I think they will win? I absolutely do not. They will be there not because they are one of the two best teams in the country. They will be there because they will be able to dominate a weaker conference with better players. They will be there because their schedule is certainly favorable, bordering on criminal. They are the Florida of the mid-90s. UF looked good beating up on Vandy, Kentucky, and a slew of other also-rans in the SEC. Ohio State gets no quarter for me for laying the smack on Northwestern, Minnesota, and Purdue. So #5 it is. And in an effort of disclosure, I think there are more than 4 teams better than the Buckeyes, but 5 was as low as I could go right now. Welcome to the big stage, OSU.

Who You Need to Know and Their 07 Stats:
QB Todd Boeckman: 2379 yds, 25 TD
WR Brian Hartline: 52 rec, 694 yds, 6 TD
RB Beanie Wells: 1609 yds, 15 TD
WR Brian Robiskie: 55 rec, 935 yds, 11 TD

Game To Watch: September 13th at USC and October 4th at Wisconsin are the only remotely loseable games for the Buckeyes. Their Game of the Season will be their Bowl Game, which they will lose.

They'll Do Well If...: They find a way to stop any remotely good team that they face in their Bowl.

Season Outlook: Expect Ohio State to be in the National Championship game, most likely against a one-loss Big 12 team or a 1 or 2-loss SEC squad. It is entirely feasible if both an SEC and Big 12 team run the table, Ohio State will not be in the BCS Championship game. Anything less than undefeated and this season will go down as failure in the highest order, and one loss with Ohio State's schedule will be devastating to any title hopes.

Prelude to a Season... #6

#6.) Missouri

What You Need to Know: If 2008 turns out anything like 2007, most Missouri fans will be completely happy. Facing intense pressure and expectations after last year's 12-2 campaign, which featured a #1 ranking and a chance to play for the national title, Missouri seems primed for another Big 12 North title, and a shot at a BCS bowl.

Who's back? Chase Daniel, the Big 12's Offensive Player of the Year last season, a Heisman finalist, and a second-team All American. Daniel has some holes to fill on offense, as the line lost two starters and wide out Will Franklin. The players vying to replace Franklin are fortunate to have a system and a QB that makes wide outs look phenomenal. An overlooked loss for the Tigers is RB Tony Temple. The 1000+ yard back finished the year with 12 TD, and while not an overwhelming superstar, he was a serviceable back that prevented defenses from simply keying on Daniel and the pass.

Defensively, the Tigers return 10 starters from their Cotton Bowl winning squad last year, but the loss of nose tackle Lorenzo Williams will be felt. The Tigers have a very favorable out of conference schedule, and play two critical games at neutral sites, Illinois in St. Louis (their season opener) and Kansas at Arrowhead Stadium.

Who You Need to Know and Their 07 Stats:
QB Chase Daniel: 4306 yds, 33 TD
WR Jeremy Maclin: 80 rec, 1055 yds, 9 TD
DT Ziggy Hood: 49 tkls, 8 TFL, 5 sacks

Game To Watch: The season-opener against Illinois will be a shootout and will be a large victory for Mizzou. However, the game is out of conference, early enough to be able to rebound should they lose, and on a neutral site. The big game for this team is at Texas on October 18. It will tell you whether or not this team has a shot at winning the entire Big 12.

They'll Do Well If...: As Daniel and the defense go, so go the Tigers. Daniel gets hurt, and this team is in trouble. They'll be fine if he stays healthy, the defense performs even remotely well, and they find a manageable replacement at RB.

Season Outlook: There is absolutely no reason why the Tigers can't run the table on their schedule. Winning against both Kansas and Texas (their two toughest games) will be challenging but possible. Most likely they will meet Oklahoma again in the Big 12 title game, and it very well could be for a national title berth. Expect Daniel to turn heads, be a contender for the Heisman Trophy, and the Tigers to again finish the year in the Top 5 with an 11-1 regular season record heading into the Big 12 Championship.

Prelude to a Season... #7

#7.) LSU

What You Need to Know: Let's chat about success, shall we? In 2002 the Tigers tasted victory on the grandest stage, winning a BCS title, and announcing under coach Nick Saban that they were a dynasty in the making in the SEC. Saban bolted for the NFL (though now at rival Alabama) in 05, and the Tigers hired Les Miles, head coach of Oklahoma State.

Miles' first weeks of the 2005 season were trying to say the least. He was replacing the man viewed as the resuscitator of LSU football, as well as the students, school, and region dealing with the fallout for Hurricane Katrina. These were auspicious beginnings for Miles.

In his three seasons at LSU, Miles has many fans asking, "Saban who?". He's rattled off 34 wins, a Top 8 final ranking each season, 2 SEC West Titles, 2 BCS Bowl berths, and a national championship. That's an impressive resume for any coach under any length of time, but to have that be in your first three years of a job is ridiculous.

Miles excels at playcalls that are unconventional and risky, fake FGs, going for it on 4th down, and his team embodies that sort of swagger. But this 2008 edition of LSU has major holes to fill and many questions to be answered. For the Tigers to continue with their 4th-straight ten-win season, they will need to find viable replacements for 10 starters, 6 of them defensive. It isn't so much that they lost starters, it's more the starters that they lost. Gone from the roster are the likes of DT Glenn Dorsey, TB Early Doucet, SS Craig Steltz, QB Matt Flynn, LB Ali Highsmith, and CBs Chevis Jackson and Jonathon Zenon. These are tremendous impact players, and the Tigers must find a way to replace their production and leadership.

Of course, LSU is LSU, and any team at this level with this sort of success is loaded with talent on the two-deep. New man under center, Andrew Hatch, who has all of one career completion. The good news for Miles and crew is the offensive line. They return all but one starter, and the O-line is big, fast, strong, and agile. Which makes sense considering Miles was a former O-line coach at Michigan. They will give Hatch time, and open up plenty of holes for whichever one of the half dozen or so tailbacks vying for Doucet's spot has the ball.

Defensively, LSU was known for its intensity and hits of the large variety. Replacing the holes in the front seven will be doable, but the biggest impact will be felt by the loss of both starting corners. By having such lock-down coverage at the corner position as they did last year, it allowed the front 7 and the occasional DB to pressure the opposition into mistakes, lost yardage, and turnovers. If the Tigers have to drop back into more zone coverage with the LBs, this defense will not be as fearsome.

Who You Need to Know and Their 07 Stats:
RB Keiland Williams: 478 yds, 6 TD
WR Demetrius Byrd: 35 rec, 621 yds, 7 TD
DT Kirston Pittman: 7.5 sacks

Game To Watch: The good news for the Tigers is they play 8 home games, but the bad news is they play four SEC games on the road (Arkansas, Florida, South Carolina, Auburn). There are three games LSU fans look to as a barometer of the season, the first is a must-win September 20th at Auburn. The next two are not necessarily must-wins, but a 1-1 split will be needed for the Tigers to play for the SEC title in Atlanta. The two games in question? October 11th at Florida, and October 25th versus Georgia. Of course, there's the rivalry game versus Alabama on November 8th, but its a home game for LSU, and very few teams win under the lights in Baton Rouge.

They'll Do Well If...: Hatch picks up the offense, gains confidence in three cupcake games early, and begins to play like an SEC QB.

Season Outlook: It's the same story as a lot of other SEC teams. Loaded with talent, conference schedule from hell, speed like a jackrabbit on crystal meth. LSU will be favored to win the West, but the league did them no favors by trading out Kentucky for Georgia. The good news for the Tigers is their schedule is weakest early, where they can allow for some growing pains and a sizable learning curve. The Auburn game is critical, but I expect an LSU win. Adding in a loss at Florida and an upset win against Georgia on a bayou Saturday night, and it's a an 11-1 regular season and a rematch with Florida in Atlanta for the SEC title.

Prelude to a Season... #8

#8.) West Virginia

What You Need to Know: The season of change begins in Morgantown, but while changes occur in nearly every facet of the WVU program, there is reason to be optimistic about what remains the same. Gone is head coach Rich Rodriguez, starting tailback Steve Slaton, FB Owen Schmitt, WR Darius Reynaud, 7 defensive starters, prize recruit Terrelle Pryor, and every coach from the staff save for defensive coordinator Jeff Casteel and defensive line coach Bill Kirelawich.

Despite the losses there is reason to be optimistic at WVU. New head man Bill Stewart returns a Big East Offensive Player of the Year in QB Pat White, and White is unrivaled in his understanding and success within the spread offense. Also returning is RB Noel Devine, a viable replacement for Steve Slaton, with blazing speed and game experience. Opening holes for Devine and protecting White is a veteran offensive line, returning 8 players with starting experience.

Stewart seems to have reigned in the character issues, booting two players in the offseason who couldn't get with the new program. Where the most personnel was lost, the defense, there are key returners both in the field and in the coaching ranks. It's not the same as last year, for sure, and the Mountaineers will have tough sledding with a schedule that is dangerous, a team and staff that are still trying to gel, and a fanbase with raised expectations, but the sky isn't falling in Morgantown nearly as quickly as everyone presumed it would.

Adding to WVU's potential success is the fact there is no clear-cut dominant team in the Big East. The Mountaineers are smack in the middle of a conference with no extremely dominant offense, which means their defense will not have to perform miracles week-in and week-out to win conference games. They are the front-runner in the Big East to be sure.

Who You Need to Know and Their 07 Stats:
QB Pat White: 1724 pass yds, 1335 rush yds, 28 total TD
RB Noel Devine: 627 yds, 6 TD
LB Mortty Ivy: 6 sacks 11 TFL

Game To Watch: Out of conference games at Colorado and East Carolina will be challenging. Their biggest out of conference game will be at home versus Auburn on October 23 and will be an opportunity for WVU to announce just what sort of team they are. In conference games against Rutgers and South Florida are both at home. Their most important game, and the one they must win to have any hope of winning the conference is November 28 at Pitt.

They'll Do Well If...: Pat White must stay healthy. The defense must step up in important games and take advantage of the lack of a non-dominating Big East offense.

Season Outlook: There is no reason to believe the Mountaineers will not be in contention for the Big East. The conference title is theirs to lose. A loss at Pitt means there is no wiggle room in conference play and a sweep against Rutgers and South Florida is needed, achievable for sure. The defense stands to get shredded against Auburn, but every other game is manageable for the defense. Expect a hiccup somewhere along the way in conference play, but at the end of the season, WVU will be standing with a 10-2 record, a Big East title, and another BCS bowl berth.

Prelude to a Season... #9

#9.) Clemson

What You Need to Know: It's been a hard 17 years for the Clemson Tigers. They are perpetually loaded with talent. This year is no different as the Tigers return the 07 conference leaders in passing, rushing, and receiving. They play in the strong, but not overwhelmingly so, ACC and have finished short of the conference title game three years running. Though they play in the stronger Coastal Division, the Tigers have had opportunities to win the division only to watch it slip away through their own mistakes and errors. Head coach Tommy Bowden is a strong recruiter, always ranking in the top 20 classes, and this years class of 26, which may be his strongest, includes the consensus top prospect in DE Da'Quan Bowers. So the pieces are there.

What is troubling for Tigers fans is we've all seen this before. Each season the Tigers come to the table with talks of a conference championship and perhaps contending for a national title. Each season the chatter amps up until Clemson loses an ACC game (usually at home) to a team they either should beat, or are beating until they let it slip away. Last season was a critical loss to Boston College, the year before a loss to Maryland, the year before that BC again.

The Tigers have senior leadership on the field with returners in key skill positions, such as QB Cullen Harper, RBs James Davis and CJ Spiller, and WR Aaron Kelly. They also had no turnover in the coaching staff. But there are glaring holes in Clemson's armor. Their offensive line returns exactly 1 starter. Skill positions don't matter much if you don't have time to throw or blocks to run behind. Defensively, the Tigers have three brand new linebackers. Where they are weakest, they are thinnest, so depth is a factor. An injury to the LBs or OL will be devastating and felt immediately.

Who You Need to Know and Their 07 Stats:
QB Cullen Harper: 2991 yds, 27 TD
RB James Davis: 1064 yds, 10 TD
WR Aaron Kelly: 88 rec., 1081 yds, 11 TD
DE Ricky Sapp: 10 TFL, 5 sacks, 22 QB pressures

Game To Watch: The season-opener for August 30 will either quiet the critics of Bowden and the Tigers or amp them up to fever pitch one game in. Even with a loss, it's early enough in the season that the Tigers can rebound for the BCS. Two conference tilts will be challenging for the Tigers, and they are back-to-back: September 27 vs. Maryland and October 9 at Wake Forest, with the latter being the more challenging of the two.

They'll Do Well If...: The offensive line performs even moderately well. The linebacking unit gets past the steep learning curve. Key returners provide leadership on and off the field. The Tiger faithful don't increase the pressure with their usual "Fire Bowden" rhetoric after one loss.

Season Outlook: Bowden signed an extension to coach the Tigers at roughly $1.8 million per year through the 2014 season. Ideally, this will not only squelch future flirting Bowden would do for other jobs like he did with the Arkansas vacancy this offseason, but it should also quiet the rabid Tiger fans who call for his job after the first loss of the season. Usually to a team they should defeat. This year, their patience may get tested early. The Tigers open the season August 30 in Atlanta versus Alabama. The rest of the games are winnable for the Tigers and they will be favored in all. Anything short of an ACC title will disappoint the fans, and truthfully, the college football world. It's time for Clemson to be the team they should be rather than the team they always have been. Expect no worse than a 1-loss season and an ACC title.

Prelude to a Season... #10

#10.) Auburn

What You Need to Know: What you know about Auburn is all about to change. Head coach Tommy Tuberville thought it time for a shakeup on the offensive side of the ball. Enter new offensive coordinator Tony Frankin from Troy weeks before the Tigers faced off against Clemson in the season finale. The result? A 23-20 Peach Bowl victory and a season-high 423 yards on offense. Franklin brings a spread style attack into town and with it the opportunity to crank up the heat on opposing defenses in the SEC.

The Tigers had losses too, at both the player and coach level. Defensive Coordinator Will Muschamp is a new resident of Austin, TX. New defensive head men are nothing new to the Tigers, as Paul Rhoads becomes the 4th man to hold that position in 5 years. The Tigers have also lost 3-year starter at QB, Brandon Cox. However, some fans believe the loss will be mitigated by the new system, and Cox's sometimes ineffectiveness in the old one.

What stands as fundamentals of a Tuberville-led team is a strong defense, ability to run the football, and the ability to make plays on special teams. All that looks in place for the Tigers this year. The fact they are an SEC team will help them with strength of schedule, reputation, and ability to be seen by poll voters. But the odds of an SEC team going unbeaten is slim. But as LSU demonstrated, undefeated isn't a precursor to winning a National Championship.

Who You Need to Know and Their 07 Stats:
DE Antonio Coleman: 8.5 sacks, 18.5 TFL

Game To Watch: September 20. LSU. Winner controls their destiny in the SEC West.

They'll Do Well If...: The Tigers have the difficult task of running a new offensive scheme for the first year, but also replacing a three-year starter in the process. That could be a positive (as there isn't a former system cluttering up the mix in his head) or a negative (as he gets game experience).

Season Outlook: By all signs and indications, Auburn should be competitive for the SEC West. With a win against LSU, they are in the drivers seat for a berth in the SEC title game. That's a tall order, but LSU is a home game for Auburn. Undefeated will be next to impossible, but I look for Auburn to finish in at 9-3 (losses to LSU, Georgia, WVU), 2nd in the division.

Prelude to a Season... #11

#11.) Texas

What You Need to Know: The easy money says bet against Texas. Losing 7 defensive starters, their starting tight end, running back, and a bevy of wide receivers all makes people hesitant to predict success. Their conference? Killer. Oklahoma, Texas Tech, Missouri, Kansas, and Oklahoma State are all on the schedule and are all tough games.

What makes me rank Texas #11... a ranking that I believe is still a bit low? Several reasons...

1.) QB1, Colt McCoy. McCoy is a junior now. He's a leader by experience and personality rather than by default because of his position. After an underwhelming sophomore year plagued by injury, McCoy looks ready to step in and be a Texas QB after all. Added into his equation is a deep and experienced offensive line. That will work wonders for keeping the pressure down and the opportunities to make poor decisions to a minimum.

2.) Head coach, Mack Brown. The knock on Brown has always been that he underperforms with a roster loaded with talent. If underperforming is seven consecutive 10-win or more seasons, five straight bowl wins, and a BCS title in 05, then sure, I guess that claim can be made. Brown is simply one of the best in the business. And he'll prove it this year.

3.) New additions to the coaching staff. Auburn assistant Will Muschamp is now on staff. Muschamp will motivate the defense to perform better, and more importantly, with more passion. End Brian Orakpo characterized Mushamp as "very intense". That's sort of like saying Bill Clinton was "a bit of a ladies man". Orakpo will graduate with honors from the College of Understatement this spring.

4.) Texas is Texas. There's no such thing as a rebuilding year when you're the Longhorns. Injuries last season prompted game experience for players (especially the O Line) who wouldn't have gotten it otherwise. It bodes well this season, as the two-deep is loaded with talent (as it always is) but now has experience.

Who You Need to Know and Their 07 Stats:
QB Colt McCoy: 3308 yds, 22 TD
DE Brian Orakpo: 5.5 sacks
O Line: 9 players return with significant game experience

Game To Watch: October 11th. Oklahoma. Everything about this game screams "Winner a front-runner for the Big 12 and the national title".

They'll Do Well If...: The defense, their weak link in the chain last season, pulls it together and gels in the early games. McCoy keeps his decision making crisp and doesn't get unnerved while in the pocket under pressure. They stay healthy, a significant blow to last season's success.

Season Outlook: In the Big 12 this season, a team's ability to win the conference is directly proportionate to their defense. If a defense is talented enough to shut down the high powered offensive attacks in Texas Tech, Oklahoma, and Missouri, then they'll be a contender for the conference. By sheer strength of schedule and conference prestige alone, a conference title in the Big 12 means you're at least in the mix for a national title. Conservatively, UT won't beat everyone. The Horns will be 5-0 heading to their showdown with Oklahoma. After that it's Missouri, Oklahoma State, and Texas Tech.a 3-1 stretch will be good news for the Horns and leave them in the hunt. 11-1 in the regular season and an outside shot at the BCS title game even if they don't make the Big 12 conference championship are realistic expectations.

Prelude to a Season... #12

#12.) Arizona State

What You Need to Know: It was supposed to be a rebuilding year for the Sun Devils in 2007. Though coming off two seven-win seasons, the Sun Devils always lacked the ability to win the big game. Becoming the door mat for perennial power USC in the Pac 10. Their coach in Dick Koetter was consistent and steady, but always seemed a notch below the upper echelon in the college ranks.

Enter Dennis Erickson. One year later, the Sun Devils are coming off a 10-2 season, a Holiday Bowl berth, and most importantly, the winning of critical conference games like Cal, Oregon State, and UCLA. The Sun Devils are looking to take the next step and contend for a Pac10 title, and they just might have the weapons to do it.

Offensively, 7 starters return among them QB Rudy Carpenter who has a shot, albeit a longshot to break the Pac10 career passing yard mark this season. The other skill positions are loaded with returning talent like RB Keegan Herring and WRs Chris McGaha, Kerry Taylor, Michael Jones, and Kyle Williams. The line is solid and experienced, but there is work to be done. After giving up 55 sacks in 2007, the line has to improve.

Defensively, 7 starters return as well, most notably, S Troy Nolan and CB Omar Bolden who has the skill, ability, and reputation to cause opposing offenses to throw away from him. The defensive unit from 07 finished 3rd in scoring defense and 4th in total defense in the Pac10. The unit holds the key to the 08 season's success. A strong performance like last season, which is probable, makes Arizona State a legitimate contender for the Pac10 and a longshot contender for the national championship.

Who You Need to Know and Their 07 Stats:
QB Rudy Carpenter: 3202 yds, 25 YD
WR Michael Jones: 46 rec, 769 yds, 10 TD
RB Keegan Herring: 815 yds, 5 TD
S Troy Nolan: 64 tkls, 6 INT, 2 TD

Game To Watch: There are two critical games for Arizona State which will ultimately decide if they play for the National Championship, an at-large BCS game, or just another Bowl. Georgia on Sept. 20 and @ USC on Oct. 11. A 2-0 sweep means they are in the drivers seat for a National Championship berth. A 1-1 split means they are a virtual lock for an at-large BCS bowl. An 0-2 run means they will need help to make it to the BCS.

They'll Do Well If...: The O-line keeps the sacks down, Carpenter limits his INTs and makes good decisions under pressure outside the pocket, Herring becomes an every-down type back.

Season Outlook: Most likely, Arizona State finishes the year 10-2 and 8-1 in the conference, though a win against Georgia is possible, just improbable. That resume and computer numbers should be enough for an at-large BCS berth. The National Championship may be out of reach this year, but Erickson and company have announced that Sun Devil football is indeed back.

Prelude to a Season... #13

#13.) Wisconsin

What You Need to Know: The Badgers have been the model of consistency in the last four years, piling up 40 wins and a Top 18 final ranking each season. Bret Bielema, entering his third season since replacing Barry Alvarez, begins the quest to get to more than just a New Year's Day Bowl Game, though the Badgers have been to 4 straight, the only team in the Big Ten that can say that.

The Badgers return 17 starters from a team plagued by the injury bug last season. Their recruiting class was stellar, though not exceptional, and their backups all have game experience. Key losses to the Badgers are QB Tyler Donovan and K Taylor Mehlhaff. Returning is a strong offensive line that is the signature of the Wisconsin O, and a deep stable of running backs. So deep in fact, that Bielema wasn't sure P.J. Hill, set to finish #2 on the all-time Wisconsin rushing total list, wasn't going to split time with sophomore Zach Brown. It's smash-mouth, in your face, bruise up your defensive line by running over top of everyone, Wisconsin football. And they should be better at it this year than they were last.

The defense is deep, game-tested, and experienced. The defensive line has been plagued by injuries (mostly minor) in the spring, and the LB crew is among the best in the conference. They are weakest in the secondary, but not crippilingly so. Expect a staunch defense, especially so in front of the home crowd in Madison, one of the toughest places to play in the country.

Who You Need to Know and Their 07 Stats:
RB P.J. Hill: 1212 yds, 14 TD
S Shane Carter: 7 INT
DE Matt Shaughnessy: 18 TFL, 5 sacks
TE Travis Beckum: 75 rec, 982 yds, 6 TD

Game To Watch: There are three teams which figure to be in the hunt for a Big Ten crown along with Wisconsin. Fortunately for the Badgers, all three games will be played in front of their home crowd in Madison. Penn State, Illinois, and Ohio State will all look for a road win in the very tough confines of Camp Randall. How the Badgers do in those games will ultimately decide the conference and whether the Badgers can finally grab the brass ring of the BCS.

They'll Do Well If...: Wisconsin has to stick to what Wisconsin does best: Offensively, a grind-it-out attack. Defensively: a no-mistakes approach that brings intensity. They must not fall victim to any "trap games".

Season Outlook: The future is bright for the Badgers, but a Big Ten title will be tough to grasp this year. While the game is played in Camp Randall, WI, the road to the Big Ten title clearly goes through Columbus, OH and Ohio State. Realistically, the Badgers finish a 1-loss season (to the aforementioned Buckeyes) and wait to see if they get an at-large BCS berth. The computers will not be kind to Wisconsin, without a title game to play in, and their schedule strength is weak with out of conference teams like Akron, Marshall, and Cal Poly.

Prelude to a Season... #14

#14.) Tennessee

What You Need to Know:
The Good: Tennessee opens 2008 with a surprising season behind them, highlighted by an improbable SEC East division title and a lead on eventual national champion LSU late in the SEC title game. The good news continues with a strong offensive line returning 5 starters which will provide ample and needed protection for new QB Jonathon Crompton. Returning on the offensive side of the ball is the best WR in the conference, senior Lucas Taylor. In the backfield with Crompton will be Arian Foster, who will likely break the career rushing record at UT this season. The Vols would do well to feature a hardnosed, possession based offense centered on a premier back while Crompton finds his confidence under center.

The Mediocre: Defensively, the secondary took a black eye last season. The corners and safeties often looked undersized, overmatched, and markedly lost-in-motion much of the time. The front 7 was adequate but not impressive, and the D-line wasn’t overpowering enough to prevent the inevitable double-teams on a blitzing linebacker in Jerod Mayo. With a season behind them, growing pains worked out, and another year of experience the defense for UT looks at least ok. They aren’t a deep unit, and injuries to the D-line will be disaster.

The Bad: Rookie QBs in the SEC usually perform poorly. Crompton has his work cut out for him with an absolutely brutal schedule early. Significant off-field turmoil dominated the headlines in the winter, prompting Fulmer to have to write a letter to local media outlets that were calling for his job. Significant movement in the coaching staff brings continuity in to question as key offensive assistants David Cutcliffe and Trooper Taylor moved on.

The Worse: The SEC is loaded. Simply loaded. There are two Top-5 teams (Florida & Georgia) in UT’s division and another Top-10 conference school on the schedule in Auburn. They open the season against UCLA in Pasadena, and kudos to UT for not scheduling soft. Thankfully, LSU is not on this year’s schedule.

Who You Need to Know and Their 07 Stats:
RB Arian Foster: 1193 yds, 12 TD
WR Lucas Taylor: 73 rec., 1000 yds, 5 TD
LB Rico McCoy: 106 tkls, 4.5 TFL

Game To Watch: Selfishly, the game I’ll be watching will be Nov. 29 against Kentucky. But if the last quarter-century or so is any indicator, Take UT, lay the points, and thank me for the profit. Realistically, the game that will have the most impact on UT’s season will be Sept. 20 versus Florida. A win puts UT in the driver’s seat in the East with the Georgia game looming. A loss means the Vols will need to win at Georgia and for Florida to stumble twice for UT to have any hope in the SEC East. For sheer entertainment purposes on the internet, the lead up to the Alabama game figures to be a HATEHATEHATEHATEHATEHATE game deluxe.

They'll Do Well If...: Crompton picks up the offense well enough to avoid a season opening loss at UCLA.

Season Outlook: UT is looking at 3rd in the East, 4th or 5th in the conference, and probably a three-loss regular season (UGA, UF, Auburn). That means they win all the games they should and at least put a good showing on in the games they won’t be favored in. An upset here or there and some stumbles by the Georgia’s and Florida’s (which is entirely possible in this conference) means the Vols are right in the hunt for the East Division. From an outsider looking in, I’d say 9-3 is a great season, but if my UT friends have taught me anything, it’s a loss is never ok on Rocky Top.

Prelude to a Season... #15

#15.) Virginia Tech

What You Need to Know: Virginia Tech for years longed to be in the ACC. Four years ago, the Hokies got their wish and haven't looked back since. Going to three ACC title games, winning two of them, compiling at least ten wins each of the four seasons, and finishing those seasons ranked no lower than 16th means bad news to the rest of the league. When coupled with a severe shortage of marquee teams to boost up computer rankings and league power, the Hokies always seem to be a good team, but not a great team.

This year's edition of the football squad looks to be more of the same for Beamer and company... a really good football team. But there are issues which make me hesitant to dub VT a really great team or consider them a contender for the national championship. What concerns most people, the 2-QB system that they operate with Sean Glennon and Tyrod Taylor doesn't bother me. They managed it last year and the offense has had a full spring to work out the kinks. My main concern is replacing RB Branden Ore, who has been dismissed. Backup Kenny Lewis Jr. underwent surgery in the spring on his shoulder, and will miss all of fall practice and perhaps the first two games. In the bruising ACC, having a consistent running game is a must, and the Hokies are unproven and thin in the backfield as well as wide receiver, graduating all their starters.

Defensively, only 4 starters return, but Frank Beamer is known for a vaunted stingy defense that relies on making the big plays. The defense itself will reload rather than rebuild. Finally, the schedule is not a tough one for VT, and the ACC opponents do not include Clemson. Efficient ball-moving offense, stingy defense, and a soft schedule all are good things for Virginia Tech as 2008's season dawns.

Who You Need to Know and Their 07 Stats:
QB Sean Glennon: 1,796 yds, 12 TD
QB Tyrod Taylor: 927 pass yds, 5 pass TD, 429 rush yds, 6 rush TD
LB Cam Martin: 78 tkls, 4.5 sacks

Game To Watch: Three games could cause problems... @ Florida State (10/25), Maryland (11/6), and @ Miami (11/13).

They'll Do Well If...: If the Hokies simply win the games they'll be favored in, they'll do extremely well. The offense must continue to improve under the current system and the defense must replace some hefty shoes.

Season Outlook: Most schools returning only 10 starters, with a 2 QB system, using a third-string RB to start the season would be hard pressed to win, but this Hokie team capitalizes on what it does well: creating chaos defensively and winning the games they should. Fortunately for VT, there are quite a few of those on the schedule this year. Barring a significant upset, the Hokies will start 6-0 before hitting the tough part of their schedule. There's no reason to believe the Hokies won't be shoe-ins for another ACC Coastal crown, but winning the overall ACC will be a tall order, as that road goes through a loaded Clemson team. Allowing for hiccup somewhere along the way, it's not unreasonable to expect a two-loss season and a Chic-Fil-A Bowl bid, with an outside shot at one of the at-large BCS games.

Prelude to a Season... #16

#16.) Texas Tech

What You Need to Know: If you're a Tech fan or have followed college football at all over the last four to five years, you already know the story. Pass happy XBOX-esque attack in Lubbock. Defense? Not so much. Those in the know, including Tech QB Graham Harrel will tell you this year will be different. That this is the year the defense gets it right and at least plays just good enough to not cost the Red Raiders a shot at the Big 12 South.

On paper, the Red Raiders are strong, returning 18 of 22 starters, 10 of which are on offense. Harrel, a senior, is back, as is top target Michael Crabtree. With an offense that expects to lose both of them next year, if they're going to make national noise, now is the time. The question, as has always been the case in West Texas, is the defense. They return 8 starters, but between the conference contenders in the Big 12, the talent is thinnest in Lubbock.

And let's not forget the head coach/mad scientist/weatherman extraordinaire... Mike Leach, seen here:


Who You Need to Know and Their 07 Stats:
QB Graham Harrel: 5705 yds, 48 TD
WR Michael Crabtree: 134 rec., 1962 yds, 22 TD
DE Brandon Williams: 12.5 TFL, 5 sacks

Game To Watch: The schedule is a favorable one for Tech early, as they very well could be undefeated heading to Lawrence for the Jayhawks on October 25. A win there means next week's game with Texas becomes even bigger. A win there means their 11/22 contest at Oklahoma will be for a berth to the Big 12 title game. All big if's, all big improbables.

They'll Do Well If...: The defense plays just well enough to not force the offense to play perfect in big games.

Season Outlook: Riding momentum may carry Tech past Kansas, but beating Oklahoma and Texas is a tall order. Mercifully for the Tech defense Missouri is off the schedule this year. That bodes well for the Red Raiders, but it is difficult to see a scenario where Tech finishes ahead of both Texas and Oklahoma for the South's berth in the championship game. Optimistically, they may finish in a tie for 2nd in their division and fourth in the conference. Realistically, it's third in the Big12 south and a 9-3 record.

Prelude to a Season... #17

#17.) Kansas

What You Need to Know: 2007 was quite a year for the Kansas Jayhawks. Finishing the season 12-1, a #2 ranking in the final poll, and Coach of the Year honors for Mark Mangino all added up to a special year. When coupled with their 73 points against Nebraska, as well as a season-ending Orange Bowl victory over Virginia Tech, it makes 2007 a tough act to follow.

It's a rebuilding year of sorts in Lawrence, as they Jayhawks must find a way to replace two skill players in WR Marcus Henry and RB Brandon McAnderson, both second-team All Big 12 selections in 07. Perhaps most devastating to an offense which returns 6 starters is the loss of both starting tackles, one of whom was an All-American in Anthony Collins. QB Todd Reesing does return.

Defensively, the key loss for a unit returning 9 is DT James McClinton, a second-team All-American pick who helped the Jayhawks finish 8th in the country against the run last season. CB Aquib Talib is also gone, an All-American and first round NFL draft pick. The Jayhawks have the potential to be great again, but it is contingent on winning games that are winnable but that they will be underdogs in, and the younger inexperienced players filling roles immediately.

Who You Need to Know and Their 07 Stats:
QB Todd Reesing: 3486 yds, 33 TD
LB Mike Rivera: 96 tkls, 10.5 TFL, 2 FR, 2 FF, INT, 3 sacks
WR Dexton Fields: 63 rec., 834 yds, 6 TD

Game To Watch: The schedule for the Jayhawks is manageable but not easy. Their only real test out of conference will be at South Florida on September 12. They play Oklahoma and Texas Tech back-to-back to close October, but the game that many will look to as a barometer of sorts of how far Kansas has come is November 15th against Texas. A win makes the 11/29 showdown with Chase Daniel and Mizzou that much bigger.

They'll Do Well If...: For the Jayhawks to have any hope at a conference title, a young, offensive line (at tackle) will have to be consistent and efficient. The defense must keep them in games and provide critical stops and turnovers in critical must-win games (@Oklahoma, Texas).

Season Outlook: Folks expecting a repeat of 2007 are fooling themselves. The Big 12 is simply too strong above Kansas, with Missouri, Texas, and Oklahoma all expecting to compete for a National Championship. Teams on their level like Texas Tech and Nebraska are just as talented as Kansas and competing for the same Bowls, meaning the Jayhawks don't have a lot of guaranteed wins on the schedule in conference play. Having said that, though, Kansas should not be overlooked as an outside contender for the Big 12. Overall, expect an 8-win to 10-win season and a semi-major Bowl.

Prelude to a Season... #18

#18.) BYU

What You Need to Know: Most teams who lose 9 starters from a conference leading defensive unit would shy away from guaranteeing anything, much less crashing the BCS dance. But BYU isn't most teams. Head Coach Bronco Mendenhall did just that, labeling 2008 a "Quest for Perfection". There is reason to believe, though. While the defense is greatly depleted, the offense returns a solid line and star power at the skill positions. The same offense that led the conference in scoring, passing, and total offense last season.

Mendenhall has never had a losing season since taking over in Provo in 2005. His first year was his worst year, going 6-6. What followed that was two 11-win seasons and two final Top 20 rankings. The Cougars have established themselves as head-and-shoulders above their Mountain West Conference brethren. The bad news for them is that the Mountain West does not receive an automatic berth to the Bowl Championship Series.

It makes for interesting dramatics in Utah, and makes their out of conference games that much more important. For a program that will have to rely on not only their on the field success but also the losses of teams in front of them, word of mouth, and media coverage for poll votes in the BCS equation, the Cougars must make the most of games people will see to have any shot of being this year's Boise State or Hawaii.

Who You Need to Know and Their 07 Stats:
QB Max Hall: 3848 yds, 26 TD
RB Harvey Unga: 1840 all purpose yds, 17 total TD
WR Austin Collie: 946 yds, 7 TD

Game To Watch: The schedule for the Cougars is challenging without being brutal. Looming large on the agenda is back-to-back Pac10 foes Washington (9/6) on the road and UCLA (9/13) at home. Winning both those games could mean serious possibilities of the Cougars attracting even more national attention as a potential BCS crasher than they currently are receiving. October 16th is a road game against TCU, but the Cougs season may very will rest on the season finale against and at conference rival Utah on November 22.

They'll Do Well If...: Offensively, BYU is dominant. They return their leading passer, rusher, receiver, and 4 offensive line starters. The question is whether this is a rebuilding year or a reloading year on a defense which returns only 3 starters from a conference best defense in 2007. They have only one "warm-up" game (vs. Northern Iowa) before the aforementioned games against Washington and UCLA, so the learning curve will be steep. If the defense steps up early against UW and UCLA, it takes pressure off the offense to have to just outscore everyone, a daunting task week in and week out.

Season Outlook: Folks in Provo expect a Mountain West title, but most expect much more than that. Coming off the heels of Hawaii and Boise State contributing fireworks as a BCS outsider, many expect BYU in a BCS bowl game and potentially competing for a national championship. A national championship will be challenging, simply because of the number of good teams in front of them that will have to stumble at least once, but the Cougars are in a much better position at the start of the season than Boise State or Hawaii were to move up the rankings. Not having a marquee game against a Top 10 opponent hurts their chances for the big hardware, so expect a 10-2 record and an outside shot at a BCS bowl.