http://www.nfldraftblitz.com/roughingthepasser.htm
Roughing the Passer
By: Matt Miller
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1/27/05
1. Southern California
9-3-05 at Hawaii
9-17-05 ARKANSAS
9-24-05 at Oregon
10-1-05 at Arizona State
10-8-05 ARIZONA
10-15-05 at Notre Dame
10-22-05 at Washington
10-29-05 WASHINGTON STATE
11-5-05 STANFORD
11-12-05 at California
12-3-05 UCLA
They're all alone at the top tier of teams. USC has now won 22 straight games including two BCS bowl games. They finished 12-0 last year, 11-1 in 2003 and 10-2 in 2002. Depending on who you listen to, they've won back to back national championships. USC will be the #1 team in every publication this year. Do I really think they're going to win the championship again? Maybe. But until someone knocks them off their throne, the Trojans are the kings of the college football world. Get used to them at the top too. Pete Carroll has constantly gotten high school recruits to buy into his vision, and they've had some of the top recruiting classes over the past few years.
What's to like: USC will be returning nearly their whole offense. That means that Heisman winner Matt Leinart will be back again, along with Heisman finalist Reggie Bush. They would have been #1 even without Leinart, as backup QB John David Booty was a top recruit himself. The Trojans this year will only be replacing starters as full back, tight end, and one position on the offensive line. That spot may be filled by Winston Justice, who's reenrolled at SoCal. 5 defensive starters return, including super safety Darnell Bing. This team not only has momentum, but they're going to be feared.
What's not to like: There's not much to be afraid of for the Trojans. The task won't be as easy this year, however. They start the season off with a game in Hawaii, which could turn into a big trap for the Trojans. Hawaii has one of the biggest home field advantages in football. They're 20-2 at home over the past three years, though their two losses have come to better opponents. They'll also have to go on the road this year to face Oregon, Arizona State, Notre Dame, and Cal. None of those will be easy games, especially Arizona State. They're losing both interior lineman in Mike Patterson and Shaun Cody and their top linebackers Matt Grootegoed and Lofa Tatupu will also be gone. <SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","
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\r\n
\r\n2. Michigan
\r\n9-3-05 NORTHERN ILLINOIS
\r\n9-10-05 NOTRE DAME
\r\n9-17-05 EASTERN MICHIGAN
\r\n9-24-05 at Wisconsin
\r\n10-1-05 at Michigan State
\r\n10-8-05 MINNESOTA
\r\n10-15-05 PENN STATE
\r\n10-22-05 at Iowa
\r\n10-29-05 at Northwestern
\r\n11-12-05 INDIANA
\r\n11-19-05 OHIO STATE
\r\n
\r\n
\r\n
\r\nMichigan didn\'t finish the season as strong as they would have liked to.* They dropped their final game of the season to rival Ohio State, and lost a thrilling Rose Bowl to Texas.* In both games they were punctured by rushing quarterbacks.* Of course 2005 is another year and Michigan has a great shot this year to make it to the National Championship game.* The Rose Bowl might already be salivating at the chance to have their turn for the title game host a USC / Michigan traditional match up.* Michigan is on the rise too.* Besides sophomore starters at both quarterback and tailback, they currently host a top 10 recruiting class.*
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to like:* Even more astonishing than the offense returning 8 starters, is the fact that the defense is returning 8 as well.*** Another year means that fabulous freshman Chad Henne and Michael Hart have a year of experience under their belts.* They\'re returning four of their five offensive linemen, and replace star receiver Braylon Edwards with another star in the making - Steve Breaston.* More importantly, Michigan gets rivals Ohio State and Notre Dame both at home.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s not to like:* Michigan looks pretty good coming into 2005.* The secondary will be the biggest question for the Wolverines this year.* They lost Marlin Jackson to graduation, and Ernest Shazor declared early for the NFL draft.* They have a very hard contest on the road this year versus Iowa, as well.* Nonetheless, if their youngsters step up, and keep the secondary from being an Achilles\' heel, they might just make it to the Rose Bowl.
\r\n
\r\n3. Virginia Tech
\r\n9-17-05 MARSHALL
\r\nTBA OHIO ",1]);//--></SCRIPT>
2. Michigan
9-3-05 NORTHERN ILLINOIS
9-10-05 NOTRE DAME
9-17-05 EASTERN MICHIGAN
9-24-05 at Wisconsin
10-1-05 at Michigan State
10-8-05 MINNESOTA
10-15-05 PENN STATE
10-22-05 at Iowa
10-29-05 at Northwestern
11-12-05 INDIANA
11-19-05 OHIO STATE
Michigan didn't finish the season as strong as they would have liked to. They dropped their final game of the season to rival Ohio State, and lost a thrilling Rose Bowl to Texas. In both games they were punctured by rushing quarterbacks. Of course 2005 is another year and Michigan has a great shot this year to make it to the National Championship game. The Rose Bowl might already be salivating at the chance to have their turn for the title game host a USC / Michigan traditional match up. Michigan is on the rise too. Besides sophomore starters at both quarterback and tailback, they currently host a top 10 recruiting class.
What's to like: Even more astonishing than the offense returning 8 starters, is the fact that the defense is returning 8 as well. Another year means that fabulous freshman Chad Henne and Michael Hart have a year of experience under their belts. They're returning four of their five offensive linemen, and replace star receiver Braylon Edwards with another star in the making - Steve Breaston. More importantly, Michigan gets rivals Ohio State and Notre Dame both at home.
What's not to like: Michigan looks pretty good coming into 2005. The secondary will be the biggest question for the Wolverines this year. They lost Marlin Jackson to graduation, and Ernest Shazor declared early for the NFL draft. They have a very hard contest on the road this year versus Iowa, as well. Nonetheless, if their youngsters step up, and keep the secondary from being an Achilles' heel, they might just make it to the Rose Bowl.
3. Virginia Tech
9-17-05 MARSHALL
TBA OHIO<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","
\r\n10-1-05 at West Virginia
\r\nTBA BOSTON COLLEGE
\r\nTBA GEORGIA TECH
\r\nTBA MIAMI FL
\r\nTBA NORTH CAROLINA
\r\nTBA at Duke
\r\nTBA at Maryland
\r\nTBA at North Carolina State
\r\nTBA at Virginia
\r\n
\r\nWoe is the Big East, as they\'re going to miss out on this Virginia Tech team, who just might be a contender for the National Championship in 2005.* They nearly came from behind in the 4th quarter to beat Auburn in the Sugar Bowl.* That\'s no easy task, considering the Billingsley Report ranks Auburn as the 23rd best team all time.* The Hokies also finished the season strong. They won their final three games to wrap up the ACC, including a win over Miami on the road.*
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to like:* Not only do they finish the season strong, but they\'re returning 14 total starters.* Talented rusher Mike Imoh will be back, along with star corner Jimmy Williams.* The team will lose Bryan Randall, but Marcus Vick may be back to lead the squad.* The Hokies also have a very favorable schedule, including Miami and Boston College at home, and a favorable out of conference schedule with Ohio and Marshall.*
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\r\nWhat\'s not to like:* The team has only one returning starter in the secondary in Jimmy Williams.* His counterpart Eric Green was just as good, if not better.* The main question with this team will indeed be the quarterback position.* They\'re replacing ACC Player of the Year Bryan Randall.* Marcus Vick may be back to the squad, but after his legal troubles, it\'s unfair of us to try to speculate where his state of mind may be.* They have a tough contest against Virginia on the road, but if they get through that, this team could go straight to the Rose Bowl.
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\r\n4. Texas
\r\n9-3-05 LOUISIANA-LAFAYETTE
\r\n9-10-05 at Ohio State
\r\n9-17-05 RICE
\r\n10-1-05 at Missouri
\r\n10-8-05 vs. Oklahoma @Dallas, TX
\r\n10-15-05 COLORADO
\r\n10-22-05 TEXAS TECH
\r\n10-29-05 at Oklahoma State
\r\n11-5-05 at Baylor ",1]);//--></SCRIPT>
10-1-05 at West Virginia
TBA BOSTON COLLEGE
TBA GEORGIA TECH
TBA MIAMI FL
TBA NORTH CAROLINA
TBA at Duke
TBA at Maryland
TBA at North Carolina State
TBA at Virginia
Woe is the Big East, as they're going to miss out on this Virginia Tech team, who just might be a contender for the National Championship in 2005. They nearly came from behind in the 4th quarter to beat Auburn in the Sugar Bowl. That's no easy task, considering the Billingsley Report ranks Auburn as the 23rd best team all time. The Hokies also finished the season strong. They won their final three games to wrap up the ACC, including a win over Miami on the road.
What's to like: Not only do they finish the season strong, but they're returning 14 total starters. Talented rusher Mike Imoh will be back, along with star corner Jimmy Williams. The team will lose Bryan Randall, but Marcus Vick may be back to lead the squad. The Hokies also have a very favorable schedule, including Miami and Boston College at home, and a favorable out of conference schedule with Ohio and Marshall.
What's not to like: The team has only one returning starter in the secondary in Jimmy Williams. His counterpart Eric Green was just as good, if not better. The main question with this team will indeed be the quarterback position. They're replacing ACC Player of the Year Bryan Randall. Marcus Vick may be back to the squad, but after his legal troubles, it's unfair of us to try to speculate where his state of mind may be. They have a tough contest against Virginia on the road, but if they get through that, this team could go straight to the Rose Bowl.
4. Texas
9-3-05 LOUISIANA-LAFAYETTE
9-10-05 at Ohio State
9-17-05 RICE
10-1-05 at Missouri
10-8-05 vs. Oklahoma @Dallas, TX
10-15-05 COLORADO
10-22-05 TEXAS TECH
10-29-05 at Oklahoma State
11-5-05 at Baylor<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","
\r\n11-12-05 KANSAS
\r\n11-25-05 at Texas A&M (Fri.)
\r\n
\r\nAnother top five preseason prediction for Texas and Mack Brown is familiar territory. Over the past three years the team has only two losses to any team not named Oklahoma.* Because of that, I\'m weary of giving them a higher rating, or even a rating this high.** They finished the season strong last year, with an impressive victory over Michigan in the Rose Bowl, but they are constantly playing for two national championships every year.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to like:* Texas arguably is returning the best group of starters.* They\'re returning 7 on offense, including a quarterback in Vince Young who looked to really come into his own during this year\'s Rose Bowl.* More importantly, Texas returns 9 starters on one of the top defenses in the nation.* As usual for the Longhorns, they lost no underclassmen to the NFL draft.* Stars Rod Wright and Michael Huff will be back.* If Texas can get past Oklahoma, Mack Brown may just be able to do it this year.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s not to like:* 16 starters, but the two holes in the lineup are the most noticeable.* Graduated seniors Cedric Benson and Derrick Johnson were the heart and souls of the offensive and defensive squads.* While Texas has players to pick up the slack, they\'ll be hard pressed to find anyone to match the talent of two possible top 10 draft picks.* Defensive Coordinator Greg Robinson, who drew raves for his blitzing schemes, left the team for the head coaching job at Syracuse.* Combine this with a tough schedule, including road matches at Ohio State, Oklahoma State, AND Texas A&M, and it will be a very hard road for Texas.* Not to mention, they still need to beat Oklahoma.
\r\n5. Oklahoma
\r\n9-3-05 TCU
\r\n9-10-05 TULSA
\r\n9-17-05 at UCLA
\r\n10-1-05 KANSAS STATE
\r\n10-8-05 vs. Texas @ Dallas, TX
\r\n10-15-05 at Kansas @Kansas City, MO
\r\n10-22-05 BAYLOR
\r\n10-29-05 at Nebraska
\r\n11-5-05 OKLAHOMA STATE
\r\n11-12-05 TEXAS A&M ",1]);//--></SCRIPT>
11-12-05 KANSAS
11-25-05 at Texas A&M (Fri.)
Another top five preseason prediction for Texas and Mack Brown is familiar territory. Over the past three years the team has only two losses to any team not named Oklahoma. Because of that, I'm weary of giving them a higher rating, or even a rating this high. They finished the season strong last year, with an impressive victory over Michigan in the Rose Bowl, but they are constantly playing for two national championships every year.
What's to like: Texas arguably is returning the best group of starters. They're returning 7 on offense, including a quarterback in Vince Young who looked to really come into his own during this year's Rose Bowl. More importantly, Texas returns 9 starters on one of the top defenses in the nation. As usual for the Longhorns, they lost no underclassmen to the NFL draft. Stars Rod Wright and Michael Huff will be back. If Texas can get past Oklahoma, Mack Brown may just be able to do it this year.
What's not to like: 16 starters, but the two holes in the lineup are the most noticeable. Graduated seniors Cedric Benson and Derrick Johnson were the heart and souls of the offensive and defensive squads. While Texas has players to pick up the slack, they'll be hard pressed to find anyone to match the talent of two possible top 10 draft picks. Defensive Coordinator Greg Robinson, who drew raves for his blitzing schemes, left the team for the head coaching job at Syracuse. Combine this with a tough schedule, including road matches at Ohio State, Oklahoma State, AND Texas A&M, and it will be a very hard road for Texas. Not to mention, they still need to beat Oklahoma.
5. Oklahoma
9-3-05 TCU
9-10-05 TULSA
9-17-05 at UCLA
10-1-05 KANSAS STATE
10-8-05 vs. Texas @ Dallas, TX
10-15-05 at Kansas @Kansas City, MO
10-22-05 BAYLOR
10-29-05 at Nebraska
11-5-05 OKLAHOMA STATE
11-12-05 TEXAS A&M<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","
\r\n11-19-05 at Texas Tech
\r\n
\r\nNot too far behind their Texas rivals, the Sooners can never be counted out of a National Championship race.* The last time Oklahoma finished out of the top 10 was way back in 1999.* Five top ten finishes later, and this is a team to be reckoned with in any year.* They got blown out by USC in last year\'s national title game, so we\'re going to see the Sooners come into the season with something to prove.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to like:* Oklahoma\'s freshman of the year Adrian Peterson will be back.* After setting a freshman rushing record, he should be healthy, and a force for next season.* He finished second in the Heisman rankings and will only improve now that he has a year of experience under his belt.** Their play from the quarterback position may not fall all that far, as junior Paul Thompson has been patiently putting in some of the best spring seasons for the Sooners.* The team also has a favorable schedule, getting nearly all their tough opponents at home.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s not to like:* Only eight starters are returning, and for the first time in almost forever, one of them isn\'t Jason White.* They have huge holes on both the defensive line and in the secondary.* Can their fabulous recruiting classes turn into big time college talent?* That\'s the question the Sooners will face this season.*
\r\n
\r\n6.* Louisiana State
\r\n9-3-05 NORTH TEXAS
\r\n9-10-05 ARIZONA STATE
\r\n9-24-05 TENNESSEE
\r\n10-1-05 at Mississippi State
\r\n10-8-05 at Vanderbilt
\r\n10-15-05 FLORIDA
\r\n10-22-05 AUBURN
\r\n11-12-05 at Alabama
\r\n11-19-05 at Mississippi
\r\n11-26-05 ARKANSAS
\r\nTBA 1 non-conference opponent
\r\n
\r\nThe team ended the year with a heartbreaking loss to Iowa, but they\'ll have a new look next year with new head coach Les Miles.* He may just turn around a franchise that finished the year pretty hot before their Bowl Game.* Don\'t forget this is a team that was National Champions just a year ago.* The SEC is going be even tougher that it was last season, so don\'t expect a team to come out of this conference undefeated again.* ",1]);//--></SCRIPT>
11-19-05 at Texas Tech
Not too far behind their Texas rivals, the Sooners can never be counted out of a National Championship race. The last time Oklahoma finished out of the top 10 was way back in 1999. Five top ten finishes later, and this is a team to be reckoned with in any year. They got blown out by USC in last year's national title game, so we're going to see the Sooners come into the season with something to prove.
What's to like: Oklahoma's freshman of the year Adrian Peterson will be back. After setting a freshman rushing record, he should be healthy, and a force for next season. He finished second in the Heisman rankings and will only improve now that he has a year of experience under his belt. Their play from the quarterback position may not fall all that far, as junior Paul Thompson has been patiently putting in some of the best spring seasons for the Sooners. The team also has a favorable schedule, getting nearly all their tough opponents at home.
What's not to like: Only eight starters are returning, and for the first time in almost forever, one of them isn't Jason White. They have huge holes on both the defensive line and in the secondary. Can their fabulous recruiting classes turn into big time college talent? That's the question the Sooners will face this season.
6. Louisiana State
9-3-05 NORTH TEXAS
9-10-05 ARIZONA STATE
9-24-05 TENNESSEE
10-1-05 at Mississippi State
10-8-05 at Vanderbilt
10-15-05 FLORIDA
10-22-05 AUBURN
11-12-05 at Alabama
11-19-05 at Mississippi
11-26-05 ARKANSAS
TBA 1 non-conference opponent
The team ended the year with a heartbreaking loss to Iowa, but they'll have a new look next year with new head coach Les Miles. He may just turn around a franchise that finished the year pretty hot before their Bowl Game. Don't forget this is a team that was National Champions just a year ago. The SEC is going be even tougher that it was last season, so don't expect a team to come out of this conference undefeated again. <SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to Like:* 17 returning starters.* They are returning a starter at every major offensive position except quarterback, where JaMarcus Russell should shine after he finally takes all the snaps for the team.* They have deep talent at the runningback position and a very experienced offensive line.* Plus they return five of the front seven on the defense.* If an SEC schedule could be bearable, it might be LSU"s.* Most of their foes will be coming to Baton Rouge this year, including Tennessee, Florida, Auburn, and Arkansas.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s not to Like:* That very same schedule!* Tennessee, Florida, and even Auburn have some of the best returning squads in college football this year.* Plus the team will be facing a very talented Arizona State team in an out of conference match up.* The team is losing two of its top defensive starters in Marcus Spears and Carlos Rogers.* They\'ll actually need to bring in new starters at both cornerback positions, no easy task.* Can the team gel together and get through a ridiculous schedule?* The first test will begin on September 10th versus Arizona State.* Can they find some corners in time?
\r\n
\r\n7. Iowa
\r\n9-3-05 BALL STATE
\r\n9-10-05 at Iowa State
\r\n9-17-05 NORTHERN IOWA
\r\n9-24-05 at Ohio State
\r\n10-1-05 ILLINOIS
\r\n10-8-05 at Purdue
\r\n10-15-05 INDIANA
\r\n10-22-05 MICHIGAN
\r\n11-5-05 at Northwestern
\r\n11-12-05 at Wisconsin
\r\n11-19-05 MINNESOTA
\r\n
\r\nThe Hawkeyes with a preseason top 10 rating? I know what you\'re thinking, it\'s unbelievable.* But while you think about that, consider this Hawkeyes squad is ranked #2 overall by College Football News. They lost only two games last season on a rather difficult schedule, and coupled that with a phenomenal bowl win over LSU.* Iowa isn\'t going anywhere.* Not only are they already a team on the rise, but they\'re bringing in top recruit after top recruit.* We all wrote Iowa off last year, but let\'s learn never to do that again.* They\'re for real, and staying.",1]);//--></SCRIPT>
What's to Like: 17 returning starters. They are returning a starter at every major offensive position except quarterback, where JaMarcus Russell should shine after he finally takes all the snaps for the team. They have deep talent at the runningback position and a very experienced offensive line. Plus they return five of the front seven on the defense. If an SEC schedule could be bearable, it might be LSU"s. Most of their foes will be coming to Baton Rouge this year, including Tennessee, Florida, Auburn, and Arkansas.
What's not to Like: That very same schedule! Tennessee, Florida, and even Auburn have some of the best returning squads in college football this year. Plus the team will be facing a very talented Arizona State team in an out of conference match up. The team is losing two of its top defensive starters in Marcus Spears and Carlos Rogers. They'll actually need to bring in new starters at both cornerback positions, no easy task. Can the team gel together and get through a ridiculous schedule? The first test will begin on September 10th versus Arizona State. Can they find some corners in time?
7. Iowa
9-3-05 BALL STATE
9-10-05 at Iowa State
9-17-05 NORTHERN IOWA
9-24-05 at Ohio State
10-1-05 ILLINOIS
10-8-05 at Purdue
10-15-05 INDIANA
10-22-05 MICHIGAN
11-5-05 at Northwestern
11-12-05 at Wisconsin
11-19-05 MINNESOTA
The Hawkeyes with a preseason top 10 rating? I know what you're thinking, it's unbelievable. But while you think about that, consider this Hawkeyes squad is ranked #2 overall by College Football News. They lost only two games last season on a rather difficult schedule, and coupled that with a phenomenal bowl win over LSU. Iowa isn't going anywhere. Not only are they already a team on the rise, but they're bringing in top recruit after top recruit. We all wrote Iowa off last year, but let's learn never to do that again. They're for real, and staying.<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to Like:* Drew Tate is back.* There\'s only so much we can say about Drew Tate without sounding like a love stricken teenage girl.* He was one of the break out stars in the Big Ten last year, and will only improve this season.* Marques Simmons, Albert Young, and Marcus Schnoor are all back from injury at the tailback position and should finally give Iowa a much needed rushing attack.* They return four of five on the offensive line and nearly every linebacker - including star Abdul Hodge.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s Not to Like:* No defensive lineman with significant playing time is returning.* They won a lot of games last year with their defense, and their ability to rush the passer had a lot to do with that.* The team also must travel to Ohio State and Wisconsin, plus play Michigan - no easy task no matter where the game is.* The team will need an upset or two along the way to contend for the National Championship.
\r\n
\r\n8. Miami
\r\n9-5-05 at Florida State (Mon.)
\r\n9-17-05 at Clemson
\r\n9-24-05 COLORADO
\r\n10-1-05 SOUTH FLORIDA
\r\n10-8-05 DUKE
\r\n10-15-05 at Temple
\r\n10-22-05 GEORGIA TECH
\r\n10-29-05 NORTH CAROLINA
\r\n11-5-05 at Virginia Tech
\r\n11-17-05 at Wake Forest (Thur.)
\r\n11-26-05 VIRGINIA
\r\n
\r\nOkay, so Miami didn\'t play last year in a BCS bowl for the first time in what feels like forever.* That still doesn\'t mean we should sleep on the university that\'s known so well for its powerhouse teams, we call it simply "The U".* Their shot at a national championship in 2005 probably isn\'t very great, but the team looks poised for 1 to 2 losses and a top 10 finish.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to Like:* Is it possible a team losing its starting quarterback and tailback could be better?* Sure if you\'re Miami, and bring in top recruits every year.* Kyle Wright will get his first look at quarterback for the Hurricanes, and actually could be an immediate upgrade over the very inconsistent Brock Berlin.* Tyrone Moss will also step in to replace Frank Gore at running back.* The team may have lost 6 of their starting offensive squad, but nearly all of their replacements had a good amount of playing time.* Star offensive tackle Eric Winston returns from Injury as well.* Couple that with the fact that the team is returning 9 of 11 on defense and this squad will be one to reckon with.",1]);//--></SCRIPT>
What's to Like: Drew Tate is back. There's only so much we can say about Drew Tate without sounding like a love stricken teenage girl. He was one of the break out stars in the Big Ten last year, and will only improve this season. Marques Simmons, Albert Young, and Marcus Schnoor are all back from injury at the tailback position and should finally give Iowa a much needed rushing attack. They return four of five on the offensive line and nearly every linebacker - including star Abdul Hodge.
What's Not to Like: No defensive lineman with significant playing time is returning. They won a lot of games last year with their defense, and their ability to rush the passer had a lot to do with that. The team also must travel to Ohio State and Wisconsin, plus play Michigan - no easy task no matter where the game is. The team will need an upset or two along the way to contend for the National Championship.
8. Miami
9-5-05 at Florida State (Mon.)
9-17-05 at Clemson
9-24-05 COLORADO
10-1-05 SOUTH FLORIDA
10-8-05 DUKE
10-15-05 at Temple
10-22-05 GEORGIA TECH
10-29-05 NORTH CAROLINA
11-5-05 at Virginia Tech
11-17-05 at Wake Forest (Thur.)
11-26-05 VIRGINIA
Okay, so Miami didn't play last year in a BCS bowl for the first time in what feels like forever. That still doesn't mean we should sleep on the university that's known so well for its powerhouse teams, we call it simply "The U". Their shot at a national championship in 2005 probably isn't very great, but the team looks poised for 1 to 2 losses and a top 10 finish.
What's to Like: Is it possible a team losing its starting quarterback and tailback could be better? Sure if you're Miami, and bring in top recruits every year. Kyle Wright will get his first look at quarterback for the Hurricanes, and actually could be an immediate upgrade over the very inconsistent Brock Berlin. Tyrone Moss will also step in to replace Frank Gore at running back. The team may have lost 6 of their starting offensive squad, but nearly all of their replacements had a good amount of playing time. Star offensive tackle Eric Winston returns from Injury as well. Couple that with the fact that the team is returning 9 of 11 on defense and this squad will be one to reckon with.<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s not to Like:* Their record will likely hinge on the play of Kyle Wright.* He may have been a top prospect, but how will he fair in the very tough ACC.* The fact that he is so untested could hurt the team, as they open up with a bang against tough rival Florida State.* They\'ll also have to travel to face a tough Virginia Tech team.* How they fare in those two tough in conference games will determine whether Miami can win the ACC this season.
\r\n
\r\n9. Tennessee
\r\n9-3-05 UAB
\r\n9-17-05 at Florida
\r\n9-24-05 at Louisiana State
\r\n10-1-05 MISSISSIPPI
\r\n10-8-05 GEORGIA
\r\n10-22-05 at Alabama
\r\n10-29-05 SOUTH CAROLINA
\r\n11-5-05 at Notre Dame
\r\n11-12-05 MEMPHIS
\r\n11-19-05 VANDERBILT
\r\n11-26-05 at Kentucky
\r\n
\r\nThe Volunteers return one of the most talented teams in the nation this year, but certainly have a tough schedule.* They were surprisingly a top team last year, and finished the season with a very impressive bowl win over Texas A&M, starting their third string quarterback.* The Vols are set to be great again, but will need to be tough to win this SEC.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to Like:* Defense, Defense, Defense!* Tennessee returns 9 of 11 on defensive this year, and their two vacant spots will likely be filled by seniors.* The defense led the team to their upset win over Texas A&M in the Cotton Bowl.* Their offense won\'t be half bad either.* Freshman star quarterbacks Erik Ainge and Brent Schaeffer both return from injury and will look to lead the team again.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s Not to Like:* At Florida and LSU in back to back weeks in September.* At Alabama, at Notre Dame.* Plus Georgia and South Carolina at home.* This SEC is just so difficult that it will be very very hard for the Vols to get out of the season unscathed.* If they can win the SEC East, they\'ll still have to face a very hard West foe.* The team\'s defense is surely its strength, yet they ranked last in the conference in pass defense last season.* That could especially be a problem versus a high flying attack like Florida.* The team is also losing tailback Cedric Houston, and often injured, yet extremely talented left tackle Michael Munoz.",1]);//--></SCRIPT>
What's not to Like: Their record will likely hinge on the play of Kyle Wright. He may have been a top prospect, but how will he fair in the very tough ACC. The fact that he is so untested could hurt the team, as they open up with a bang against tough rival Florida State. They'll also have to travel to face a tough Virginia Tech team. How they fare in those two tough in conference games will determine whether Miami can win the ACC this season.
9. Tennessee
9-3-05 UAB
9-17-05 at Florida
9-24-05 at Louisiana State
10-1-05 MISSISSIPPI
10-8-05 GEORGIA
10-22-05 at Alabama
10-29-05 SOUTH CAROLINA
11-5-05 at Notre Dame
11-12-05 MEMPHIS
11-19-05 VANDERBILT
11-26-05 at Kentucky
The Volunteers return one of the most talented teams in the nation this year, but certainly have a tough schedule. They were surprisingly a top team last year, and finished the season with a very impressive bowl win over Texas A&M, starting their third string quarterback. The Vols are set to be great again, but will need to be tough to win this SEC.
What's to Like: Defense, Defense, Defense! Tennessee returns 9 of 11 on defensive this year, and their two vacant spots will likely be filled by seniors. The defense led the team to their upset win over Texas A&M in the Cotton Bowl. Their offense won't be half bad either. Freshman star quarterbacks Erik Ainge and Brent Schaeffer both return from injury and will look to lead the team again.
What's Not to Like: At Florida and LSU in back to back weeks in September. At Alabama, at Notre Dame. Plus Georgia and South Carolina at home. This SEC is just so difficult that it will be very very hard for the Vols to get out of the season unscathed. If they can win the SEC East, they'll still have to face a very hard West foe. The team's defense is surely its strength, yet they ranked last in the conference in pass defense last season. That could especially be a problem versus a high flying attack like Florida. The team is also losing tailback Cedric Houston, and often injured, yet extremely talented left tackle Michael Munoz.<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","
\r\n
\r\n
\r\n10. Ohio State
\r\n9-3-05 MIAMI OH
\r\n9-10-05 TEXAS
\r\n9-17-05 SAN DIEGO STATE
\r\n9-24-05 IOWA
\r\n10-8-05 at Penn State
\r\n10-15-05 MICHIGAN STATE
\r\n10-22-05 at Indiana
\r\n10-29-05 at Minnesota
\r\n11-5-05 ILLINOIS
\r\n11-12-05 NORTHWESTERN
\r\n11-19-05 at Michigan
\r\n
\r\nA four loss team deserving of a top ten ranking?* Sure, if you\'re Ohio State.* The Buckeyes are one of the premier programs in college football right now, and they should have as good a chance as any to compete for the national title.* They had a shaky season, but finished strong, upsetting rival Michigan, and surprisingly dominating Oklahoma State in the Alamo Bowl.* Indeed their chances could come down to the final game this season, when Ohio State/Michigan could be a meeting of two unbeatens.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to Like:* 18 returning starters.* Should I stop right there?* 9 return on the offense, not including phenomenal slot receiver Teddy Ginn.* He and Santonio Holmes are two of the nation\'s most explosive players. Nine of the 11 starters on defense return, along with several key backups.* Ohio State has a senior dominated defense that is high not only on experience, but skill as well.* The team has a majority of soft opponents on their schedule this season, and may be tested in only three games.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s not to like:* Texas.* Michigan.* Iowa.* Which the rest of the schedule is filled with patsies, these three games will make or break the Buckeyes.* True the get Texas and Iowa at home, but that may not be enough.* Each of those three teams carries a preseason ranking of #2 overall in different publications.* The team also struggled mightily
\r\n
\r\n11. Florida
\r\n9-3-05 WYOMING
\r\n9-10-05 LOUISIANA TECH
\r\n9-17-05 TENNESSEE
\r\n9-24-05 at Kentucky
\r\n10-1-05 at Alabama
\r\n10-8-05 MISSISSIPPI STATE
\r\n10-15-05 at Louisiana State
\r\n10-29-05 vs. Georgia @Jacksonville, FL
\r\n11-5-05 VANDERBILT ",1]);//--></SCRIPT>
10. Ohio State
9-3-05 MIAMI OH
9-10-05 TEXAS
9-17-05 SAN DIEGO STATE
9-24-05 IOWA
10-8-05 at Penn State
10-15-05 MICHIGAN STATE
10-22-05 at Indiana
10-29-05 at Minnesota
11-5-05 ILLINOIS
11-12-05 NORTHWESTERN
11-19-05 at Michigan
A four loss team deserving of a top ten ranking? Sure, if you're Ohio State. The Buckeyes are one of the premier programs in college football right now, and they should have as good a chance as any to compete for the national title. They had a shaky season, but finished strong, upsetting rival Michigan, and surprisingly dominating Oklahoma State in the Alamo Bowl. Indeed their chances could come down to the final game this season, when Ohio State/Michigan could be a meeting of two unbeatens.
What's to Like: 18 returning starters. Should I stop right there? 9 return on the offense, not including phenomenal slot receiver Teddy Ginn. He and Santonio Holmes are two of the nation's most explosive players. Nine of the 11 starters on defense return, along with several key backups. Ohio State has a senior dominated defense that is high not only on experience, but skill as well. The team has a majority of soft opponents on their schedule this season, and may be tested in only three games.
What's not to like: Texas. Michigan. Iowa. Which the rest of the schedule is filled with patsies, these three games will make or break the Buckeyes. True the get Texas and Iowa at home, but that may not be enough. Each of those three teams carries a preseason ranking of #2 overall in different publications. The team also struggled mightily
11. Florida
9-3-05 WYOMING
9-10-05 LOUISIANA TECH
9-17-05 TENNESSEE
9-24-05 at Kentucky
10-1-05 at Alabama
10-8-05 MISSISSIPPI STATE
10-15-05 at Louisiana State
10-29-05 vs. Georgia @Jacksonville, FL
11-5-05 VANDERBILT<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","
\r\n11-12-05 at South Carolina
\r\n11-26-05 FLORIDA STATE
\r\n
\r\nFlorida wasn\'t as bad as we thought last year.* Outside of their bowl game, none of their four losses were by less then 7 points, and three came against teams in the top 15.* The SEC could be even harder this year, so Florida is in for a big challenge.* Florida looks like they could end up being one of the top teams this upcoming season, but they\'ve still done little to make us put them in the top 10.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s To Like:* Urban Meyer.* Florida got the prized coaching prospect that Notre Dame went head over heels for.* More importantly, his offense has produced big numbers and winning teams for both Bowling Green and Utah.* This could bode well for Florida, who is returning a promising young squad.* Chris Leak and most of the major offensive weapons will be back.* They\'re returning eight on defense including six of their front seven.* Plus they likely have the second easiest schedule in the SEC, getting Tennessee and out of conference rival Florida State at home.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s Not to Like:* Florida isn\'t exactly a team that\'s played up to expectations in recent years, and a top ten prediction could be assuming a lot of new coach Urban Meyer.* They may have more experience than last year, but it\'s still a very young team. Ciatrick Fason left the team early for the NFL, and they may be hard pressed to match his talent with DeShawn Wynn.* Channing Crowder, arguably the team\'s best defensive player, also left early.* The team still has a difficult schedule, including at LSU and at South Carolina.* Chris Leak still needs to prove that he can be a top college quarterback as well.
\r\n
\r\n12. Fresno State
\r\n9-17-05 at Oregon
\r\nTBA BOISE STATE
\r\nTBA LOUISIANA TECH
\r\nTBA SAN JOSE STATE
\r\nTBA UTAH STATE
\r\nTBA at Hawai\'i
\r\nTBA at Idaho
\r\nTBA at Nevada
\r\nTBA at New Mexico State
\r\nTBA 2 non-conference opponents
\r\n
\r\nHere becomes the big question with preseason ratings. Do you base a teams ratings on predicted finish or do you couple in the team\'s play last year.* We\'ve all been bitten by the Fresno State bug before, only to have them falter.* Could the team follow Utah and finally make a BCS game this year?* Probably not, but a one loss season certainly isn\'t out of the question.",1]);//--></SCRIPT>
11-12-05 at South Carolina
11-26-05 FLORIDA STATE
Florida wasn't as bad as we thought last year. Outside of their bowl game, none of their four losses were by less then 7 points, and three came against teams in the top 15. The SEC could be even harder this year, so Florida is in for a big challenge. Florida looks like they could end up being one of the top teams this upcoming season, but they've still done little to make us put them in the top 10.
What's To Like: Urban Meyer. Florida got the prized coaching prospect that Notre Dame went head over heels for. More importantly, his offense has produced big numbers and winning teams for both Bowling Green and Utah. This could bode well for Florida, who is returning a promising young squad. Chris Leak and most of the major offensive weapons will be back. They're returning eight on defense including six of their front seven. Plus they likely have the second easiest schedule in the SEC, getting Tennessee and out of conference rival Florida State at home.
What's Not to Like: Florida isn't exactly a team that's played up to expectations in recent years, and a top ten prediction could be assuming a lot of new coach Urban Meyer. They may have more experience than last year, but it's still a very young team. Ciatrick Fason left the team early for the NFL, and they may be hard pressed to match his talent with DeShawn Wynn. Channing Crowder, arguably the team's best defensive player, also left early. The team still has a difficult schedule, including at LSU and at South Carolina. Chris Leak still needs to prove that he can be a top college quarterback as well.
12. Fresno State
9-17-05 at Oregon
TBA BOISE STATE
TBA LOUISIANA TECH
TBA SAN JOSE STATE
TBA UTAH STATE
TBA at Hawai'i
TBA at Idaho
TBA at Nevada
TBA at New Mexico State
TBA 2 non-conference opponents
Here becomes the big question with preseason ratings. Do you base a teams ratings on predicted finish or do you couple in the team's play last year. We've all been bitten by the Fresno State bug before, only to have them falter. Could the team follow Utah and finally make a BCS game this year? Probably not, but a one loss season certainly isn't out of the question.<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to Like:* There\'s so much to like on this Fresno State team, that I can\'t justify putting them outside of the top 15.* 9 starters from the nation\'s #5 scoring offense return.* This includes senior quarterback Paul Pinegar, who\'s now a four year starter.* This also includes a bevy of impressive rushers.* The team also returns 8 on the defense.* Star James Sanders, and the rest of the secondary are all returning.* 19 of 22 projected starters next season will be juniors and seniors.* This is a team that could really make some noise - not only in the WAC, but in the national scene.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s not to Like:* The team loses star tackle Logan Makins, who was a big reason for some of their rushing success over the past few years.* The team also will need to replace three of four defensive lineman - no easy task for any football team.* The schedule is certainly winnable, but the team will certainly have some road blocks along the way, starting with a contest at Oregon.* They\'ll also have to face the explosive Boise State, and travel to Hawaii, who may not be a great team, but has one of the top home field advantages in all of football.
\r\n
\r\n13. Texas A&M
\r\n9-3-05 at Clemson
\r\n9-17-05 SMU
\r\n9-24-05 TEXAS STATE
\r\n10-1-05 BAYLOR
\r\n10-8-05 at Colorado
\r\n10-15-05 OKLAHOMA STATE
\r\n10-22-05 at Kansas State
\r\n10-29-05 IOWA STATE
\r\n11-5-05 at Texas Tech
\r\n11-12-05 at Oklahoma
\r\n11-25-05 TEXAS (Fri.)
\r\n
\r\nAggies exposed?* They were dominated 38-7 by Tennessee in the Cotton Bowl, but put outside of an overtime loss to Baylor, they put in a rather impressive four loss season, with three of those losses coming against top 5 opponents.* They even played both Oklahoma and Texas tough.* Things should be looking up for this Big XII team this year, as they\'ll only improve. .
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to Like: I know I keep mentioning returning starters, but experience is a key to performance - especially early in the season.* It\'s no difference with Texas A&M, who\'s returning 17 starters, incuding 9 from their 20th ranked offense. Reggie McNeal is the key to this team, and he\'s back for his final season with Texas a&M.* Three of their four lineman are back on defense, and that will be key to this Aggies squad.* Two new starters at cornerbacks could actually improve a team that had a worse pass defense then such clubs as Idaho and Army.* The schedule is much easier this season then last.* There\'s no Utah,* and the team even gets Texas at home.",1]);//--></SCRIPT>
What's to Like: There's so much to like on this Fresno State team, that I can't justify putting them outside of the top 15. 9 starters from the nation's #5 scoring offense return. This includes senior quarterback Paul Pinegar, who's now a four year starter. This also includes a bevy of impressive rushers. The team also returns 8 on the defense. Star James Sanders, and the rest of the secondary are all returning. 19 of 22 projected starters next season will be juniors and seniors. This is a team that could really make some noise - not only in the WAC, but in the national scene.
What's not to Like: The team loses star tackle Logan Makins, who was a big reason for some of their rushing success over the past few years. The team also will need to replace three of four defensive lineman - no easy task for any football team. The schedule is certainly winnable, but the team will certainly have some road blocks along the way, starting with a contest at Oregon. They'll also have to face the explosive Boise State, and travel to Hawaii, who may not be a great team, but has one of the top home field advantages in all of football.
13. Texas A&M
9-3-05 at Clemson
9-17-05 SMU
9-24-05 TEXAS STATE
10-1-05 BAYLOR
10-8-05 at Colorado
10-15-05 OKLAHOMA STATE
10-22-05 at Kansas State
10-29-05 IOWA STATE
11-5-05 at Texas Tech
11-12-05 at Oklahoma
11-25-05 TEXAS (Fri.)
Aggies exposed? They were dominated 38-7 by Tennessee in the Cotton Bowl, but put outside of an overtime loss to Baylor, they put in a rather impressive four loss season, with three of those losses coming against top 5 opponents. They even played both Oklahoma and Texas tough. Things should be looking up for this Big XII team this year, as they'll only improve. .
What's to Like: I know I keep mentioning returning starters, but experience is a key to performance - especially early in the season. It's no difference with Texas A&M, who's returning 17 starters, incuding 9 from their 20th ranked offense. Reggie McNeal is the key to this team, and he's back for his final season with Texas a&M. Three of their four lineman are back on defense, and that will be key to this Aggies squad. Two new starters at cornerbacks could actually improve a team that had a worse pass defense then such clubs as Idaho and Army. The schedule is much easier this season then last. There's no Utah, and the team even gets Texas at home.<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s Not to Like:* McNeal makes or breaks this squad and it\'s not out of the question he\'ll break it.* The team\'s defense was rather paltry last season, and they beat most of the teams by outscoring them in shootouts.* This A&M team is already good for two losses versus Oklahoma and Texas.* How they fare on the road against teams like Colorado and Texas Tech will show us how far they\'ve come under Dennis Franchione.*
\r\n
\r\n14. Purdue
\r\n9-10-05 AKRON
\r\n9-17-05 at Arizona
\r\n9-24-05 at Minnesota
\r\n10-1-05 NOTRE DAME
\r\n10-8-05 IOWA
\r\n10-15-05 NORTHWESTERN
\r\n10-22-05 at Wisconsin
\r\n10-29-05 at Penn State
\r\n11-5-05 MICHIGAN STATE
\r\n11-12-05 ILLINOIS
\r\n11-19-05 at Indiana
\r\n
\r\nThe Boilermakers\' four defeats last year came against division foes, but they\'ll be looking up in 2005.* All you have to do is take a look at their schedule to know why this might be the year that Purdue again competes for the Big Ten crown.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to Like:* Take a look at this schedule.* Notre Dame at Home.* Iowa at Home.* Michigan State at home.* Out of conference they\'re facing doormats Arizona and Akron.* Even more important is who isn\'t on the schedule.* Take a look again and try to figure out who\'s missing?* There\'s no Ohio State or Michigan in 2005.* Oh hey, the entire defense is returning.* That\'s right, all 11 projected starters in 2005 played significant time on the defensive side of the ball last year.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s Not to Like:* Offensive stars Kyle Orton and Tyler Stubblefield won\'t be back.* Brandon Kirsch was descent playing for Orton during his injury, but can he be counted on to lead a team that will pass the ball 40 times a game?* The Boilermakers success this season will hinge on the junior signal caller\'s abilities.
\r\n
\r\n15. Georgia
\r\n9-3-05 BOISE STATE
\r\n9-10-05 SOUTH CAROLINA
\r\n9-17-05 LOUISIANA-MONROE
\r\n9-24-05 at Mississippi State
\r\n10-8-05 at Tennessee
",1]);//--></SCRIPT>
What's Not to Like: McNeal makes or breaks this squad and it's not out of the question he'll break it. The team's defense was rather paltry last season, and they beat most of the teams by outscoring them in shootouts. This A&M team is already good for two losses versus Oklahoma and Texas. How they fare on the road against teams like Colorado and Texas Tech will show us how far they've come under Dennis Franchione.
14. Purdue
9-10-05 AKRON
9-17-05 at Arizona
9-24-05 at Minnesota
10-1-05 NOTRE DAME
10-8-05 IOWA
10-15-05 NORTHWESTERN
10-22-05 at Wisconsin
10-29-05 at Penn State
11-5-05 MICHIGAN STATE
11-12-05 ILLINOIS
11-19-05 at Indiana
The Boilermakers' four defeats last year came against division foes, but they'll be looking up in 2005. All you have to do is take a look at their schedule to know why this might be the year that Purdue again competes for the Big Ten crown.
What's to Like: Take a look at this schedule. Notre Dame at Home. Iowa at Home. Michigan State at home. Out of conference they're facing doormats Arizona and Akron. Even more important is who isn't on the schedule. Take a look again and try to figure out who's missing? There's no Ohio State or Michigan in 2005. Oh hey, the entire defense is returning. That's right, all 11 projected starters in 2005 played significant time on the defensive side of the ball last year.
What's Not to Like: Offensive stars Kyle Orton and Tyler Stubblefield won't be back. Brandon Kirsch was descent playing for Orton during his injury, but can he be counted on to lead a team that will pass the ball 40 times a game? The Boilermakers success this season will hinge on the junior signal caller's abilities.
15. Georgia
9-3-05 BOISE STATE
9-10-05 SOUTH CAROLINA
9-17-05 LOUISIANA-MONROE
9-24-05 at Mississippi State
10-8-05 at Tennessee
<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","\r\n10-15-05 at Vanderbilt
\r\n10-22-05 ARKANSAS
\r\n10-29-05 vs. Florida @Jacksonville, FL
\r\n11-12-05 AUBURN
\r\n11-19-05 KENTUCKY
\r\n11-26-05 at Georgia Tech
\r\n
\r\nWhoops.* My preseason pick to be national champions last year proved me wrong.* They put in a two loss effort and came close to losing several others. Impressive, but certainly not up to the standards I held them at.* To make me feel better, they fooled a lot of people, including the media, who gave them a #3 preseason ranking.* Nonetheless, Georgia hasn\'t finished out of the top 12 since 2001, and they haven\'t lost more then four games in a season since 1996.* They\'re one of the premier programs in college football no matter what year, and this year shouldn\'t be any different.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to Like:** A deep running back rotation, including Danny Ware, Thomas Brown, and Kregg Lumpkin.* The entire offensive line once seemed like it was patched together, but now it includes all juniors and seniors, and all of whom are returning starters.* The defense returns tackles Gerald Anderson and Kedric Goldston and those big bodies should help stop the rush.** They also get Auburn and South Carolina at home.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s not to Like:* It seems like some of Georgia\'s players have been there since the beginning of time, and now suddenly, they\'re gone.* Gone is quarterback David Greene, and his top receiver Fred Gibson.* And gone is the team\'s all world defensive end David Pollack - not only a great player, but the heart of the defense.* The team also lost star underclassmen Thomas Davis to the NFL draft.* All the losses are going to be tough to overcome.* New starting quarterback D.J. Shockley was a highly touted prospect, but hasn\'t performed up to his abilities.* The Georgia team will hinge on how it can replace its former stars.
\r\n
\r\n15. Louisville
\r\n9-4-05 at Kentucky (Sun.)
\r\n10-8-05 NORTH CAROLINA
\r\nTBA vs. Cincinnati
\r\nTBA vs. Connecticut
\r\nTBA vs. Pittsburgh
\r\nTBA vs. Rutgers ",1]);//--></SCRIPT>10-15-05 at Vanderbilt
10-22-05 ARKANSAS
10-29-05 vs. Florida @Jacksonville, FL
11-12-05 AUBURN
11-19-05 KENTUCKY
11-26-05 at Georgia Tech
Whoops. My preseason pick to be national champions last year proved me wrong. They put in a two loss effort and came close to losing several others. Impressive, but certainly not up to the standards I held them at. To make me feel better, they fooled a lot of people, including the media, who gave them a #3 preseason ranking. Nonetheless, Georgia hasn't finished out of the top 12 since 2001, and they haven't lost more then four games in a season since 1996. They're one of the premier programs in college football no matter what year, and this year shouldn't be any different.
What's to Like: A deep running back rotation, including Danny Ware, Thomas Brown, and Kregg Lumpkin. The entire offensive line once seemed like it was patched together, but now it includes all juniors and seniors, and all of whom are returning starters. The defense returns tackles Gerald Anderson and Kedric Goldston and those big bodies should help stop the rush. They also get Auburn and South Carolina at home.
What's not to Like: It seems like some of Georgia's players have been there since the beginning of time, and now suddenly, they're gone. Gone is quarterback David Greene, and his top receiver Fred Gibson. And gone is the team's all world defensive end David Pollack - not only a great player, but the heart of the defense. The team also lost star underclassmen Thomas Davis to the NFL draft. All the losses are going to be tough to overcome. New starting quarterback D.J. Shockley was a highly touted prospect, but hasn't performed up to his abilities. The Georgia team will hinge on how it can replace its former stars.
15. Louisville
9-4-05 at Kentucky (Sun.)
10-8-05 NORTH CAROLINA
TBA vs. Cincinnati
TBA vs. Connecticut
TBA vs. Pittsburgh
TBA vs. Rutgers<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","
\r\nTBA vs. South Florida
\r\nTBA vs. Syracuse
\r\nTBA vs. West Virginia
\r\nTBA 2 non-conference opponents
\r\n
\r\nDo I think the Cardinals are one of the top 15 teams in the nation?* Of course not.* But what they do have is an explosive offense and an easy schedule.* Like Boise State showed us last year, you only need to win to be ranked high.* The Big East may be a step up from Conference USA, but Louisville won\'t be challenging themselves any time soon.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to Like:* Some of the new starters are going to be what\'s most exciting to watch this season.* New quarterback Brian Brohm was Offensive High School Player of the year, and showed us flashes of his talent when he had to replace Stefan LeFors last season.* Taking over at running back will be a beast of an athlete in Michael Bush.* Louisville has a considerably easy schedule this year, as UNC, Cincinnati, and Kentucky should be walkovers.* The Big East isn\'t likely to give them much trouble.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s Not to Like:* Sure they can put up points, but can Louisville stop anyone? Their relatively high defensive rank was due to the lack of talent they faced.* There\'s only one returning starter in their secondary, and the team will be very suspect to the pass.* They might be able to win their division with shootout games, but can they contend for a National Championship?* It\'s doubtful.*
\r\n</font>\r\n</font>",0]);D(["ce"]);//--></SCRIPT>
TBA vs. South Florida
TBA vs. Syracuse
TBA vs. West Virginia
TBA 2 non-conference opponents
Do I think the Cardinals are one of the top 15 teams in the nation? Of course not. But what they do have is an explosive offense and an easy schedule. Like Boise State showed us last year, you only need to win to be ranked high. The Big East may be a step up from Conference USA, but Louisville won't be challenging themselves any time soon.
What's to Like: Some of the new starters are going to be what's most exciting to watch this season. New quarterback Brian Brohm was Offensive High School Player of the year, and showed us flashes of his talent when he had to replace Stefan LeFors last season. Taking over at running back will be a beast of an athlete in Michael Bush. Louisville has a considerably easy schedule this year, as UNC, Cincinnati, and Kentucky should be walkovers. The Big East isn't likely to give them much trouble.
What's Not to Like: Sure they can put up points, but can Louisville stop anyone? Their relatively high defensive rank was due to the lack of talent they faced. There's only one returning starter in their secondary, and the team will be very suspect to the pass. They might be able to win their division with shootout games, but can they contend for a National Championship? It's doubtful.
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>9-3-05 at Hawaii
9-17-05 ARKANSAS
9-24-05 at Oregon
10-1-05 at Arizona State
10-8-05 ARIZONA
10-15-05 at Notre Dame
10-22-05 at Washington
10-29-05 WASHINGTON STATE
11-5-05 STANFORD
11-12-05 at California
12-3-05 UCLA
They're all alone at the top tier of teams. USC has now won 22 straight games including two BCS bowl games. They finished 12-0 last year, 11-1 in 2003 and 10-2 in 2002. Depending on who you listen to, they've won back to back national championships. USC will be the #1 team in every publication this year. Do I really think they're going to win the championship again? Maybe. But until someone knocks them off their throne, the Trojans are the kings of the college football world. Get used to them at the top too. Pete Carroll has constantly gotten high school recruits to buy into his vision, and they've had some of the top recruiting classes over the past few years.
What's to like: USC will be returning nearly their whole offense. That means that Heisman winner Matt Leinart will be back again, along with Heisman finalist Reggie Bush. They would have been #1 even without Leinart, as backup QB John David Booty was a top recruit himself. The Trojans this year will only be replacing starters as full back, tight end, and one position on the offensive line. That spot may be filled by Winston Justice, who's reenrolled at SoCal. 5 defensive starters return, including super safety Darnell Bing. This team not only has momentum, but they're going to be feared.
What's not to like: There's not much to be afraid of for the Trojans. The task won't be as easy this year, however. They start the season off with a game in Hawaii, which could turn into a big trap for the Trojans. Hawaii has one of the biggest home field advantages in football. They're 20-2 at home over the past three years, though their two losses have come to better opponents. They'll also have to go on the road this year to face Oregon, Arizona State, Notre Dame, and Cal. None of those will be easy games, especially Arizona State. They're losing both interior lineman in Mike Patterson and Shaun Cody and their top linebackers Matt Grootegoed and Lofa Tatupu will also be gone. <SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","
\r\n
\r\n
\r\n2. Michigan
\r\n9-3-05 NORTHERN ILLINOIS
\r\n9-10-05 NOTRE DAME
\r\n9-17-05 EASTERN MICHIGAN
\r\n9-24-05 at Wisconsin
\r\n10-1-05 at Michigan State
\r\n10-8-05 MINNESOTA
\r\n10-15-05 PENN STATE
\r\n10-22-05 at Iowa
\r\n10-29-05 at Northwestern
\r\n11-12-05 INDIANA
\r\n11-19-05 OHIO STATE
\r\n
\r\n
\r\n
\r\nMichigan didn\'t finish the season as strong as they would have liked to.* They dropped their final game of the season to rival Ohio State, and lost a thrilling Rose Bowl to Texas.* In both games they were punctured by rushing quarterbacks.* Of course 2005 is another year and Michigan has a great shot this year to make it to the National Championship game.* The Rose Bowl might already be salivating at the chance to have their turn for the title game host a USC / Michigan traditional match up.* Michigan is on the rise too.* Besides sophomore starters at both quarterback and tailback, they currently host a top 10 recruiting class.*
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to like:* Even more astonishing than the offense returning 8 starters, is the fact that the defense is returning 8 as well.*** Another year means that fabulous freshman Chad Henne and Michael Hart have a year of experience under their belts.* They\'re returning four of their five offensive linemen, and replace star receiver Braylon Edwards with another star in the making - Steve Breaston.* More importantly, Michigan gets rivals Ohio State and Notre Dame both at home.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s not to like:* Michigan looks pretty good coming into 2005.* The secondary will be the biggest question for the Wolverines this year.* They lost Marlin Jackson to graduation, and Ernest Shazor declared early for the NFL draft.* They have a very hard contest on the road this year versus Iowa, as well.* Nonetheless, if their youngsters step up, and keep the secondary from being an Achilles\' heel, they might just make it to the Rose Bowl.
\r\n
\r\n3. Virginia Tech
\r\n9-17-05 MARSHALL
\r\nTBA OHIO ",1]);//--></SCRIPT>
2. Michigan
9-3-05 NORTHERN ILLINOIS
9-10-05 NOTRE DAME
9-17-05 EASTERN MICHIGAN
9-24-05 at Wisconsin
10-1-05 at Michigan State
10-8-05 MINNESOTA
10-15-05 PENN STATE
10-22-05 at Iowa
10-29-05 at Northwestern
11-12-05 INDIANA
11-19-05 OHIO STATE
Michigan didn't finish the season as strong as they would have liked to. They dropped their final game of the season to rival Ohio State, and lost a thrilling Rose Bowl to Texas. In both games they were punctured by rushing quarterbacks. Of course 2005 is another year and Michigan has a great shot this year to make it to the National Championship game. The Rose Bowl might already be salivating at the chance to have their turn for the title game host a USC / Michigan traditional match up. Michigan is on the rise too. Besides sophomore starters at both quarterback and tailback, they currently host a top 10 recruiting class.
What's to like: Even more astonishing than the offense returning 8 starters, is the fact that the defense is returning 8 as well. Another year means that fabulous freshman Chad Henne and Michael Hart have a year of experience under their belts. They're returning four of their five offensive linemen, and replace star receiver Braylon Edwards with another star in the making - Steve Breaston. More importantly, Michigan gets rivals Ohio State and Notre Dame both at home.
What's not to like: Michigan looks pretty good coming into 2005. The secondary will be the biggest question for the Wolverines this year. They lost Marlin Jackson to graduation, and Ernest Shazor declared early for the NFL draft. They have a very hard contest on the road this year versus Iowa, as well. Nonetheless, if their youngsters step up, and keep the secondary from being an Achilles' heel, they might just make it to the Rose Bowl.
3. Virginia Tech
9-17-05 MARSHALL
TBA OHIO<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","
\r\n10-1-05 at West Virginia
\r\nTBA BOSTON COLLEGE
\r\nTBA GEORGIA TECH
\r\nTBA MIAMI FL
\r\nTBA NORTH CAROLINA
\r\nTBA at Duke
\r\nTBA at Maryland
\r\nTBA at North Carolina State
\r\nTBA at Virginia
\r\n
\r\nWoe is the Big East, as they\'re going to miss out on this Virginia Tech team, who just might be a contender for the National Championship in 2005.* They nearly came from behind in the 4th quarter to beat Auburn in the Sugar Bowl.* That\'s no easy task, considering the Billingsley Report ranks Auburn as the 23rd best team all time.* The Hokies also finished the season strong. They won their final three games to wrap up the ACC, including a win over Miami on the road.*
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to like:* Not only do they finish the season strong, but they\'re returning 14 total starters.* Talented rusher Mike Imoh will be back, along with star corner Jimmy Williams.* The team will lose Bryan Randall, but Marcus Vick may be back to lead the squad.* The Hokies also have a very favorable schedule, including Miami and Boston College at home, and a favorable out of conference schedule with Ohio and Marshall.*
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s not to like:* The team has only one returning starter in the secondary in Jimmy Williams.* His counterpart Eric Green was just as good, if not better.* The main question with this team will indeed be the quarterback position.* They\'re replacing ACC Player of the Year Bryan Randall.* Marcus Vick may be back to the squad, but after his legal troubles, it\'s unfair of us to try to speculate where his state of mind may be.* They have a tough contest against Virginia on the road, but if they get through that, this team could go straight to the Rose Bowl.
\r\n
\r\n4. Texas
\r\n9-3-05 LOUISIANA-LAFAYETTE
\r\n9-10-05 at Ohio State
\r\n9-17-05 RICE
\r\n10-1-05 at Missouri
\r\n10-8-05 vs. Oklahoma @Dallas, TX
\r\n10-15-05 COLORADO
\r\n10-22-05 TEXAS TECH
\r\n10-29-05 at Oklahoma State
\r\n11-5-05 at Baylor ",1]);//--></SCRIPT>
10-1-05 at West Virginia
TBA BOSTON COLLEGE
TBA GEORGIA TECH
TBA MIAMI FL
TBA NORTH CAROLINA
TBA at Duke
TBA at Maryland
TBA at North Carolina State
TBA at Virginia
Woe is the Big East, as they're going to miss out on this Virginia Tech team, who just might be a contender for the National Championship in 2005. They nearly came from behind in the 4th quarter to beat Auburn in the Sugar Bowl. That's no easy task, considering the Billingsley Report ranks Auburn as the 23rd best team all time. The Hokies also finished the season strong. They won their final three games to wrap up the ACC, including a win over Miami on the road.
What's to like: Not only do they finish the season strong, but they're returning 14 total starters. Talented rusher Mike Imoh will be back, along with star corner Jimmy Williams. The team will lose Bryan Randall, but Marcus Vick may be back to lead the squad. The Hokies also have a very favorable schedule, including Miami and Boston College at home, and a favorable out of conference schedule with Ohio and Marshall.
What's not to like: The team has only one returning starter in the secondary in Jimmy Williams. His counterpart Eric Green was just as good, if not better. The main question with this team will indeed be the quarterback position. They're replacing ACC Player of the Year Bryan Randall. Marcus Vick may be back to the squad, but after his legal troubles, it's unfair of us to try to speculate where his state of mind may be. They have a tough contest against Virginia on the road, but if they get through that, this team could go straight to the Rose Bowl.
4. Texas
9-3-05 LOUISIANA-LAFAYETTE
9-10-05 at Ohio State
9-17-05 RICE
10-1-05 at Missouri
10-8-05 vs. Oklahoma @Dallas, TX
10-15-05 COLORADO
10-22-05 TEXAS TECH
10-29-05 at Oklahoma State
11-5-05 at Baylor<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","
\r\n11-12-05 KANSAS
\r\n11-25-05 at Texas A&M (Fri.)
\r\n
\r\nAnother top five preseason prediction for Texas and Mack Brown is familiar territory. Over the past three years the team has only two losses to any team not named Oklahoma.* Because of that, I\'m weary of giving them a higher rating, or even a rating this high.** They finished the season strong last year, with an impressive victory over Michigan in the Rose Bowl, but they are constantly playing for two national championships every year.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to like:* Texas arguably is returning the best group of starters.* They\'re returning 7 on offense, including a quarterback in Vince Young who looked to really come into his own during this year\'s Rose Bowl.* More importantly, Texas returns 9 starters on one of the top defenses in the nation.* As usual for the Longhorns, they lost no underclassmen to the NFL draft.* Stars Rod Wright and Michael Huff will be back.* If Texas can get past Oklahoma, Mack Brown may just be able to do it this year.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s not to like:* 16 starters, but the two holes in the lineup are the most noticeable.* Graduated seniors Cedric Benson and Derrick Johnson were the heart and souls of the offensive and defensive squads.* While Texas has players to pick up the slack, they\'ll be hard pressed to find anyone to match the talent of two possible top 10 draft picks.* Defensive Coordinator Greg Robinson, who drew raves for his blitzing schemes, left the team for the head coaching job at Syracuse.* Combine this with a tough schedule, including road matches at Ohio State, Oklahoma State, AND Texas A&M, and it will be a very hard road for Texas.* Not to mention, they still need to beat Oklahoma.
\r\n5. Oklahoma
\r\n9-3-05 TCU
\r\n9-10-05 TULSA
\r\n9-17-05 at UCLA
\r\n10-1-05 KANSAS STATE
\r\n10-8-05 vs. Texas @ Dallas, TX
\r\n10-15-05 at Kansas @Kansas City, MO
\r\n10-22-05 BAYLOR
\r\n10-29-05 at Nebraska
\r\n11-5-05 OKLAHOMA STATE
\r\n11-12-05 TEXAS A&M ",1]);//--></SCRIPT>
11-12-05 KANSAS
11-25-05 at Texas A&M (Fri.)
Another top five preseason prediction for Texas and Mack Brown is familiar territory. Over the past three years the team has only two losses to any team not named Oklahoma. Because of that, I'm weary of giving them a higher rating, or even a rating this high. They finished the season strong last year, with an impressive victory over Michigan in the Rose Bowl, but they are constantly playing for two national championships every year.
What's to like: Texas arguably is returning the best group of starters. They're returning 7 on offense, including a quarterback in Vince Young who looked to really come into his own during this year's Rose Bowl. More importantly, Texas returns 9 starters on one of the top defenses in the nation. As usual for the Longhorns, they lost no underclassmen to the NFL draft. Stars Rod Wright and Michael Huff will be back. If Texas can get past Oklahoma, Mack Brown may just be able to do it this year.
What's not to like: 16 starters, but the two holes in the lineup are the most noticeable. Graduated seniors Cedric Benson and Derrick Johnson were the heart and souls of the offensive and defensive squads. While Texas has players to pick up the slack, they'll be hard pressed to find anyone to match the talent of two possible top 10 draft picks. Defensive Coordinator Greg Robinson, who drew raves for his blitzing schemes, left the team for the head coaching job at Syracuse. Combine this with a tough schedule, including road matches at Ohio State, Oklahoma State, AND Texas A&M, and it will be a very hard road for Texas. Not to mention, they still need to beat Oklahoma.
5. Oklahoma
9-3-05 TCU
9-10-05 TULSA
9-17-05 at UCLA
10-1-05 KANSAS STATE
10-8-05 vs. Texas @ Dallas, TX
10-15-05 at Kansas @Kansas City, MO
10-22-05 BAYLOR
10-29-05 at Nebraska
11-5-05 OKLAHOMA STATE
11-12-05 TEXAS A&M<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","
\r\n11-19-05 at Texas Tech
\r\n
\r\nNot too far behind their Texas rivals, the Sooners can never be counted out of a National Championship race.* The last time Oklahoma finished out of the top 10 was way back in 1999.* Five top ten finishes later, and this is a team to be reckoned with in any year.* They got blown out by USC in last year\'s national title game, so we\'re going to see the Sooners come into the season with something to prove.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to like:* Oklahoma\'s freshman of the year Adrian Peterson will be back.* After setting a freshman rushing record, he should be healthy, and a force for next season.* He finished second in the Heisman rankings and will only improve now that he has a year of experience under his belt.** Their play from the quarterback position may not fall all that far, as junior Paul Thompson has been patiently putting in some of the best spring seasons for the Sooners.* The team also has a favorable schedule, getting nearly all their tough opponents at home.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s not to like:* Only eight starters are returning, and for the first time in almost forever, one of them isn\'t Jason White.* They have huge holes on both the defensive line and in the secondary.* Can their fabulous recruiting classes turn into big time college talent?* That\'s the question the Sooners will face this season.*
\r\n
\r\n6.* Louisiana State
\r\n9-3-05 NORTH TEXAS
\r\n9-10-05 ARIZONA STATE
\r\n9-24-05 TENNESSEE
\r\n10-1-05 at Mississippi State
\r\n10-8-05 at Vanderbilt
\r\n10-15-05 FLORIDA
\r\n10-22-05 AUBURN
\r\n11-12-05 at Alabama
\r\n11-19-05 at Mississippi
\r\n11-26-05 ARKANSAS
\r\nTBA 1 non-conference opponent
\r\n
\r\nThe team ended the year with a heartbreaking loss to Iowa, but they\'ll have a new look next year with new head coach Les Miles.* He may just turn around a franchise that finished the year pretty hot before their Bowl Game.* Don\'t forget this is a team that was National Champions just a year ago.* The SEC is going be even tougher that it was last season, so don\'t expect a team to come out of this conference undefeated again.* ",1]);//--></SCRIPT>
11-19-05 at Texas Tech
Not too far behind their Texas rivals, the Sooners can never be counted out of a National Championship race. The last time Oklahoma finished out of the top 10 was way back in 1999. Five top ten finishes later, and this is a team to be reckoned with in any year. They got blown out by USC in last year's national title game, so we're going to see the Sooners come into the season with something to prove.
What's to like: Oklahoma's freshman of the year Adrian Peterson will be back. After setting a freshman rushing record, he should be healthy, and a force for next season. He finished second in the Heisman rankings and will only improve now that he has a year of experience under his belt. Their play from the quarterback position may not fall all that far, as junior Paul Thompson has been patiently putting in some of the best spring seasons for the Sooners. The team also has a favorable schedule, getting nearly all their tough opponents at home.
What's not to like: Only eight starters are returning, and for the first time in almost forever, one of them isn't Jason White. They have huge holes on both the defensive line and in the secondary. Can their fabulous recruiting classes turn into big time college talent? That's the question the Sooners will face this season.
6. Louisiana State
9-3-05 NORTH TEXAS
9-10-05 ARIZONA STATE
9-24-05 TENNESSEE
10-1-05 at Mississippi State
10-8-05 at Vanderbilt
10-15-05 FLORIDA
10-22-05 AUBURN
11-12-05 at Alabama
11-19-05 at Mississippi
11-26-05 ARKANSAS
TBA 1 non-conference opponent
The team ended the year with a heartbreaking loss to Iowa, but they'll have a new look next year with new head coach Les Miles. He may just turn around a franchise that finished the year pretty hot before their Bowl Game. Don't forget this is a team that was National Champions just a year ago. The SEC is going be even tougher that it was last season, so don't expect a team to come out of this conference undefeated again. <SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to Like:* 17 returning starters.* They are returning a starter at every major offensive position except quarterback, where JaMarcus Russell should shine after he finally takes all the snaps for the team.* They have deep talent at the runningback position and a very experienced offensive line.* Plus they return five of the front seven on the defense.* If an SEC schedule could be bearable, it might be LSU"s.* Most of their foes will be coming to Baton Rouge this year, including Tennessee, Florida, Auburn, and Arkansas.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s not to Like:* That very same schedule!* Tennessee, Florida, and even Auburn have some of the best returning squads in college football this year.* Plus the team will be facing a very talented Arizona State team in an out of conference match up.* The team is losing two of its top defensive starters in Marcus Spears and Carlos Rogers.* They\'ll actually need to bring in new starters at both cornerback positions, no easy task.* Can the team gel together and get through a ridiculous schedule?* The first test will begin on September 10th versus Arizona State.* Can they find some corners in time?
\r\n
\r\n7. Iowa
\r\n9-3-05 BALL STATE
\r\n9-10-05 at Iowa State
\r\n9-17-05 NORTHERN IOWA
\r\n9-24-05 at Ohio State
\r\n10-1-05 ILLINOIS
\r\n10-8-05 at Purdue
\r\n10-15-05 INDIANA
\r\n10-22-05 MICHIGAN
\r\n11-5-05 at Northwestern
\r\n11-12-05 at Wisconsin
\r\n11-19-05 MINNESOTA
\r\n
\r\nThe Hawkeyes with a preseason top 10 rating? I know what you\'re thinking, it\'s unbelievable.* But while you think about that, consider this Hawkeyes squad is ranked #2 overall by College Football News. They lost only two games last season on a rather difficult schedule, and coupled that with a phenomenal bowl win over LSU.* Iowa isn\'t going anywhere.* Not only are they already a team on the rise, but they\'re bringing in top recruit after top recruit.* We all wrote Iowa off last year, but let\'s learn never to do that again.* They\'re for real, and staying.",1]);//--></SCRIPT>
What's to Like: 17 returning starters. They are returning a starter at every major offensive position except quarterback, where JaMarcus Russell should shine after he finally takes all the snaps for the team. They have deep talent at the runningback position and a very experienced offensive line. Plus they return five of the front seven on the defense. If an SEC schedule could be bearable, it might be LSU"s. Most of their foes will be coming to Baton Rouge this year, including Tennessee, Florida, Auburn, and Arkansas.
What's not to Like: That very same schedule! Tennessee, Florida, and even Auburn have some of the best returning squads in college football this year. Plus the team will be facing a very talented Arizona State team in an out of conference match up. The team is losing two of its top defensive starters in Marcus Spears and Carlos Rogers. They'll actually need to bring in new starters at both cornerback positions, no easy task. Can the team gel together and get through a ridiculous schedule? The first test will begin on September 10th versus Arizona State. Can they find some corners in time?
7. Iowa
9-3-05 BALL STATE
9-10-05 at Iowa State
9-17-05 NORTHERN IOWA
9-24-05 at Ohio State
10-1-05 ILLINOIS
10-8-05 at Purdue
10-15-05 INDIANA
10-22-05 MICHIGAN
11-5-05 at Northwestern
11-12-05 at Wisconsin
11-19-05 MINNESOTA
The Hawkeyes with a preseason top 10 rating? I know what you're thinking, it's unbelievable. But while you think about that, consider this Hawkeyes squad is ranked #2 overall by College Football News. They lost only two games last season on a rather difficult schedule, and coupled that with a phenomenal bowl win over LSU. Iowa isn't going anywhere. Not only are they already a team on the rise, but they're bringing in top recruit after top recruit. We all wrote Iowa off last year, but let's learn never to do that again. They're for real, and staying.<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to Like:* Drew Tate is back.* There\'s only so much we can say about Drew Tate without sounding like a love stricken teenage girl.* He was one of the break out stars in the Big Ten last year, and will only improve this season.* Marques Simmons, Albert Young, and Marcus Schnoor are all back from injury at the tailback position and should finally give Iowa a much needed rushing attack.* They return four of five on the offensive line and nearly every linebacker - including star Abdul Hodge.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s Not to Like:* No defensive lineman with significant playing time is returning.* They won a lot of games last year with their defense, and their ability to rush the passer had a lot to do with that.* The team also must travel to Ohio State and Wisconsin, plus play Michigan - no easy task no matter where the game is.* The team will need an upset or two along the way to contend for the National Championship.
\r\n
\r\n8. Miami
\r\n9-5-05 at Florida State (Mon.)
\r\n9-17-05 at Clemson
\r\n9-24-05 COLORADO
\r\n10-1-05 SOUTH FLORIDA
\r\n10-8-05 DUKE
\r\n10-15-05 at Temple
\r\n10-22-05 GEORGIA TECH
\r\n10-29-05 NORTH CAROLINA
\r\n11-5-05 at Virginia Tech
\r\n11-17-05 at Wake Forest (Thur.)
\r\n11-26-05 VIRGINIA
\r\n
\r\nOkay, so Miami didn\'t play last year in a BCS bowl for the first time in what feels like forever.* That still doesn\'t mean we should sleep on the university that\'s known so well for its powerhouse teams, we call it simply "The U".* Their shot at a national championship in 2005 probably isn\'t very great, but the team looks poised for 1 to 2 losses and a top 10 finish.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to Like:* Is it possible a team losing its starting quarterback and tailback could be better?* Sure if you\'re Miami, and bring in top recruits every year.* Kyle Wright will get his first look at quarterback for the Hurricanes, and actually could be an immediate upgrade over the very inconsistent Brock Berlin.* Tyrone Moss will also step in to replace Frank Gore at running back.* The team may have lost 6 of their starting offensive squad, but nearly all of their replacements had a good amount of playing time.* Star offensive tackle Eric Winston returns from Injury as well.* Couple that with the fact that the team is returning 9 of 11 on defense and this squad will be one to reckon with.",1]);//--></SCRIPT>
What's to Like: Drew Tate is back. There's only so much we can say about Drew Tate without sounding like a love stricken teenage girl. He was one of the break out stars in the Big Ten last year, and will only improve this season. Marques Simmons, Albert Young, and Marcus Schnoor are all back from injury at the tailback position and should finally give Iowa a much needed rushing attack. They return four of five on the offensive line and nearly every linebacker - including star Abdul Hodge.
What's Not to Like: No defensive lineman with significant playing time is returning. They won a lot of games last year with their defense, and their ability to rush the passer had a lot to do with that. The team also must travel to Ohio State and Wisconsin, plus play Michigan - no easy task no matter where the game is. The team will need an upset or two along the way to contend for the National Championship.
8. Miami
9-5-05 at Florida State (Mon.)
9-17-05 at Clemson
9-24-05 COLORADO
10-1-05 SOUTH FLORIDA
10-8-05 DUKE
10-15-05 at Temple
10-22-05 GEORGIA TECH
10-29-05 NORTH CAROLINA
11-5-05 at Virginia Tech
11-17-05 at Wake Forest (Thur.)
11-26-05 VIRGINIA
Okay, so Miami didn't play last year in a BCS bowl for the first time in what feels like forever. That still doesn't mean we should sleep on the university that's known so well for its powerhouse teams, we call it simply "The U". Their shot at a national championship in 2005 probably isn't very great, but the team looks poised for 1 to 2 losses and a top 10 finish.
What's to Like: Is it possible a team losing its starting quarterback and tailback could be better? Sure if you're Miami, and bring in top recruits every year. Kyle Wright will get his first look at quarterback for the Hurricanes, and actually could be an immediate upgrade over the very inconsistent Brock Berlin. Tyrone Moss will also step in to replace Frank Gore at running back. The team may have lost 6 of their starting offensive squad, but nearly all of their replacements had a good amount of playing time. Star offensive tackle Eric Winston returns from Injury as well. Couple that with the fact that the team is returning 9 of 11 on defense and this squad will be one to reckon with.<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s not to Like:* Their record will likely hinge on the play of Kyle Wright.* He may have been a top prospect, but how will he fair in the very tough ACC.* The fact that he is so untested could hurt the team, as they open up with a bang against tough rival Florida State.* They\'ll also have to travel to face a tough Virginia Tech team.* How they fare in those two tough in conference games will determine whether Miami can win the ACC this season.
\r\n
\r\n9. Tennessee
\r\n9-3-05 UAB
\r\n9-17-05 at Florida
\r\n9-24-05 at Louisiana State
\r\n10-1-05 MISSISSIPPI
\r\n10-8-05 GEORGIA
\r\n10-22-05 at Alabama
\r\n10-29-05 SOUTH CAROLINA
\r\n11-5-05 at Notre Dame
\r\n11-12-05 MEMPHIS
\r\n11-19-05 VANDERBILT
\r\n11-26-05 at Kentucky
\r\n
\r\nThe Volunteers return one of the most talented teams in the nation this year, but certainly have a tough schedule.* They were surprisingly a top team last year, and finished the season with a very impressive bowl win over Texas A&M, starting their third string quarterback.* The Vols are set to be great again, but will need to be tough to win this SEC.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to Like:* Defense, Defense, Defense!* Tennessee returns 9 of 11 on defensive this year, and their two vacant spots will likely be filled by seniors.* The defense led the team to their upset win over Texas A&M in the Cotton Bowl.* Their offense won\'t be half bad either.* Freshman star quarterbacks Erik Ainge and Brent Schaeffer both return from injury and will look to lead the team again.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s Not to Like:* At Florida and LSU in back to back weeks in September.* At Alabama, at Notre Dame.* Plus Georgia and South Carolina at home.* This SEC is just so difficult that it will be very very hard for the Vols to get out of the season unscathed.* If they can win the SEC East, they\'ll still have to face a very hard West foe.* The team\'s defense is surely its strength, yet they ranked last in the conference in pass defense last season.* That could especially be a problem versus a high flying attack like Florida.* The team is also losing tailback Cedric Houston, and often injured, yet extremely talented left tackle Michael Munoz.",1]);//--></SCRIPT>
What's not to Like: Their record will likely hinge on the play of Kyle Wright. He may have been a top prospect, but how will he fair in the very tough ACC. The fact that he is so untested could hurt the team, as they open up with a bang against tough rival Florida State. They'll also have to travel to face a tough Virginia Tech team. How they fare in those two tough in conference games will determine whether Miami can win the ACC this season.
9. Tennessee
9-3-05 UAB
9-17-05 at Florida
9-24-05 at Louisiana State
10-1-05 MISSISSIPPI
10-8-05 GEORGIA
10-22-05 at Alabama
10-29-05 SOUTH CAROLINA
11-5-05 at Notre Dame
11-12-05 MEMPHIS
11-19-05 VANDERBILT
11-26-05 at Kentucky
The Volunteers return one of the most talented teams in the nation this year, but certainly have a tough schedule. They were surprisingly a top team last year, and finished the season with a very impressive bowl win over Texas A&M, starting their third string quarterback. The Vols are set to be great again, but will need to be tough to win this SEC.
What's to Like: Defense, Defense, Defense! Tennessee returns 9 of 11 on defensive this year, and their two vacant spots will likely be filled by seniors. The defense led the team to their upset win over Texas A&M in the Cotton Bowl. Their offense won't be half bad either. Freshman star quarterbacks Erik Ainge and Brent Schaeffer both return from injury and will look to lead the team again.
What's Not to Like: At Florida and LSU in back to back weeks in September. At Alabama, at Notre Dame. Plus Georgia and South Carolina at home. This SEC is just so difficult that it will be very very hard for the Vols to get out of the season unscathed. If they can win the SEC East, they'll still have to face a very hard West foe. The team's defense is surely its strength, yet they ranked last in the conference in pass defense last season. That could especially be a problem versus a high flying attack like Florida. The team is also losing tailback Cedric Houston, and often injured, yet extremely talented left tackle Michael Munoz.<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","
\r\n
\r\n
\r\n10. Ohio State
\r\n9-3-05 MIAMI OH
\r\n9-10-05 TEXAS
\r\n9-17-05 SAN DIEGO STATE
\r\n9-24-05 IOWA
\r\n10-8-05 at Penn State
\r\n10-15-05 MICHIGAN STATE
\r\n10-22-05 at Indiana
\r\n10-29-05 at Minnesota
\r\n11-5-05 ILLINOIS
\r\n11-12-05 NORTHWESTERN
\r\n11-19-05 at Michigan
\r\n
\r\nA four loss team deserving of a top ten ranking?* Sure, if you\'re Ohio State.* The Buckeyes are one of the premier programs in college football right now, and they should have as good a chance as any to compete for the national title.* They had a shaky season, but finished strong, upsetting rival Michigan, and surprisingly dominating Oklahoma State in the Alamo Bowl.* Indeed their chances could come down to the final game this season, when Ohio State/Michigan could be a meeting of two unbeatens.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to Like:* 18 returning starters.* Should I stop right there?* 9 return on the offense, not including phenomenal slot receiver Teddy Ginn.* He and Santonio Holmes are two of the nation\'s most explosive players. Nine of the 11 starters on defense return, along with several key backups.* Ohio State has a senior dominated defense that is high not only on experience, but skill as well.* The team has a majority of soft opponents on their schedule this season, and may be tested in only three games.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s not to like:* Texas.* Michigan.* Iowa.* Which the rest of the schedule is filled with patsies, these three games will make or break the Buckeyes.* True the get Texas and Iowa at home, but that may not be enough.* Each of those three teams carries a preseason ranking of #2 overall in different publications.* The team also struggled mightily
\r\n
\r\n11. Florida
\r\n9-3-05 WYOMING
\r\n9-10-05 LOUISIANA TECH
\r\n9-17-05 TENNESSEE
\r\n9-24-05 at Kentucky
\r\n10-1-05 at Alabama
\r\n10-8-05 MISSISSIPPI STATE
\r\n10-15-05 at Louisiana State
\r\n10-29-05 vs. Georgia @Jacksonville, FL
\r\n11-5-05 VANDERBILT ",1]);//--></SCRIPT>
10. Ohio State
9-3-05 MIAMI OH
9-10-05 TEXAS
9-17-05 SAN DIEGO STATE
9-24-05 IOWA
10-8-05 at Penn State
10-15-05 MICHIGAN STATE
10-22-05 at Indiana
10-29-05 at Minnesota
11-5-05 ILLINOIS
11-12-05 NORTHWESTERN
11-19-05 at Michigan
A four loss team deserving of a top ten ranking? Sure, if you're Ohio State. The Buckeyes are one of the premier programs in college football right now, and they should have as good a chance as any to compete for the national title. They had a shaky season, but finished strong, upsetting rival Michigan, and surprisingly dominating Oklahoma State in the Alamo Bowl. Indeed their chances could come down to the final game this season, when Ohio State/Michigan could be a meeting of two unbeatens.
What's to Like: 18 returning starters. Should I stop right there? 9 return on the offense, not including phenomenal slot receiver Teddy Ginn. He and Santonio Holmes are two of the nation's most explosive players. Nine of the 11 starters on defense return, along with several key backups. Ohio State has a senior dominated defense that is high not only on experience, but skill as well. The team has a majority of soft opponents on their schedule this season, and may be tested in only three games.
What's not to like: Texas. Michigan. Iowa. Which the rest of the schedule is filled with patsies, these three games will make or break the Buckeyes. True the get Texas and Iowa at home, but that may not be enough. Each of those three teams carries a preseason ranking of #2 overall in different publications. The team also struggled mightily
11. Florida
9-3-05 WYOMING
9-10-05 LOUISIANA TECH
9-17-05 TENNESSEE
9-24-05 at Kentucky
10-1-05 at Alabama
10-8-05 MISSISSIPPI STATE
10-15-05 at Louisiana State
10-29-05 vs. Georgia @Jacksonville, FL
11-5-05 VANDERBILT<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","
\r\n11-12-05 at South Carolina
\r\n11-26-05 FLORIDA STATE
\r\n
\r\nFlorida wasn\'t as bad as we thought last year.* Outside of their bowl game, none of their four losses were by less then 7 points, and three came against teams in the top 15.* The SEC could be even harder this year, so Florida is in for a big challenge.* Florida looks like they could end up being one of the top teams this upcoming season, but they\'ve still done little to make us put them in the top 10.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s To Like:* Urban Meyer.* Florida got the prized coaching prospect that Notre Dame went head over heels for.* More importantly, his offense has produced big numbers and winning teams for both Bowling Green and Utah.* This could bode well for Florida, who is returning a promising young squad.* Chris Leak and most of the major offensive weapons will be back.* They\'re returning eight on defense including six of their front seven.* Plus they likely have the second easiest schedule in the SEC, getting Tennessee and out of conference rival Florida State at home.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s Not to Like:* Florida isn\'t exactly a team that\'s played up to expectations in recent years, and a top ten prediction could be assuming a lot of new coach Urban Meyer.* They may have more experience than last year, but it\'s still a very young team. Ciatrick Fason left the team early for the NFL, and they may be hard pressed to match his talent with DeShawn Wynn.* Channing Crowder, arguably the team\'s best defensive player, also left early.* The team still has a difficult schedule, including at LSU and at South Carolina.* Chris Leak still needs to prove that he can be a top college quarterback as well.
\r\n
\r\n12. Fresno State
\r\n9-17-05 at Oregon
\r\nTBA BOISE STATE
\r\nTBA LOUISIANA TECH
\r\nTBA SAN JOSE STATE
\r\nTBA UTAH STATE
\r\nTBA at Hawai\'i
\r\nTBA at Idaho
\r\nTBA at Nevada
\r\nTBA at New Mexico State
\r\nTBA 2 non-conference opponents
\r\n
\r\nHere becomes the big question with preseason ratings. Do you base a teams ratings on predicted finish or do you couple in the team\'s play last year.* We\'ve all been bitten by the Fresno State bug before, only to have them falter.* Could the team follow Utah and finally make a BCS game this year?* Probably not, but a one loss season certainly isn\'t out of the question.",1]);//--></SCRIPT>
11-12-05 at South Carolina
11-26-05 FLORIDA STATE
Florida wasn't as bad as we thought last year. Outside of their bowl game, none of their four losses were by less then 7 points, and three came against teams in the top 15. The SEC could be even harder this year, so Florida is in for a big challenge. Florida looks like they could end up being one of the top teams this upcoming season, but they've still done little to make us put them in the top 10.
What's To Like: Urban Meyer. Florida got the prized coaching prospect that Notre Dame went head over heels for. More importantly, his offense has produced big numbers and winning teams for both Bowling Green and Utah. This could bode well for Florida, who is returning a promising young squad. Chris Leak and most of the major offensive weapons will be back. They're returning eight on defense including six of their front seven. Plus they likely have the second easiest schedule in the SEC, getting Tennessee and out of conference rival Florida State at home.
What's Not to Like: Florida isn't exactly a team that's played up to expectations in recent years, and a top ten prediction could be assuming a lot of new coach Urban Meyer. They may have more experience than last year, but it's still a very young team. Ciatrick Fason left the team early for the NFL, and they may be hard pressed to match his talent with DeShawn Wynn. Channing Crowder, arguably the team's best defensive player, also left early. The team still has a difficult schedule, including at LSU and at South Carolina. Chris Leak still needs to prove that he can be a top college quarterback as well.
12. Fresno State
9-17-05 at Oregon
TBA BOISE STATE
TBA LOUISIANA TECH
TBA SAN JOSE STATE
TBA UTAH STATE
TBA at Hawai'i
TBA at Idaho
TBA at Nevada
TBA at New Mexico State
TBA 2 non-conference opponents
Here becomes the big question with preseason ratings. Do you base a teams ratings on predicted finish or do you couple in the team's play last year. We've all been bitten by the Fresno State bug before, only to have them falter. Could the team follow Utah and finally make a BCS game this year? Probably not, but a one loss season certainly isn't out of the question.<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to Like:* There\'s so much to like on this Fresno State team, that I can\'t justify putting them outside of the top 15.* 9 starters from the nation\'s #5 scoring offense return.* This includes senior quarterback Paul Pinegar, who\'s now a four year starter.* This also includes a bevy of impressive rushers.* The team also returns 8 on the defense.* Star James Sanders, and the rest of the secondary are all returning.* 19 of 22 projected starters next season will be juniors and seniors.* This is a team that could really make some noise - not only in the WAC, but in the national scene.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s not to Like:* The team loses star tackle Logan Makins, who was a big reason for some of their rushing success over the past few years.* The team also will need to replace three of four defensive lineman - no easy task for any football team.* The schedule is certainly winnable, but the team will certainly have some road blocks along the way, starting with a contest at Oregon.* They\'ll also have to face the explosive Boise State, and travel to Hawaii, who may not be a great team, but has one of the top home field advantages in all of football.
\r\n
\r\n13. Texas A&M
\r\n9-3-05 at Clemson
\r\n9-17-05 SMU
\r\n9-24-05 TEXAS STATE
\r\n10-1-05 BAYLOR
\r\n10-8-05 at Colorado
\r\n10-15-05 OKLAHOMA STATE
\r\n10-22-05 at Kansas State
\r\n10-29-05 IOWA STATE
\r\n11-5-05 at Texas Tech
\r\n11-12-05 at Oklahoma
\r\n11-25-05 TEXAS (Fri.)
\r\n
\r\nAggies exposed?* They were dominated 38-7 by Tennessee in the Cotton Bowl, but put outside of an overtime loss to Baylor, they put in a rather impressive four loss season, with three of those losses coming against top 5 opponents.* They even played both Oklahoma and Texas tough.* Things should be looking up for this Big XII team this year, as they\'ll only improve. .
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to Like: I know I keep mentioning returning starters, but experience is a key to performance - especially early in the season.* It\'s no difference with Texas A&M, who\'s returning 17 starters, incuding 9 from their 20th ranked offense. Reggie McNeal is the key to this team, and he\'s back for his final season with Texas a&M.* Three of their four lineman are back on defense, and that will be key to this Aggies squad.* Two new starters at cornerbacks could actually improve a team that had a worse pass defense then such clubs as Idaho and Army.* The schedule is much easier this season then last.* There\'s no Utah,* and the team even gets Texas at home.",1]);//--></SCRIPT>
What's to Like: There's so much to like on this Fresno State team, that I can't justify putting them outside of the top 15. 9 starters from the nation's #5 scoring offense return. This includes senior quarterback Paul Pinegar, who's now a four year starter. This also includes a bevy of impressive rushers. The team also returns 8 on the defense. Star James Sanders, and the rest of the secondary are all returning. 19 of 22 projected starters next season will be juniors and seniors. This is a team that could really make some noise - not only in the WAC, but in the national scene.
What's not to Like: The team loses star tackle Logan Makins, who was a big reason for some of their rushing success over the past few years. The team also will need to replace three of four defensive lineman - no easy task for any football team. The schedule is certainly winnable, but the team will certainly have some road blocks along the way, starting with a contest at Oregon. They'll also have to face the explosive Boise State, and travel to Hawaii, who may not be a great team, but has one of the top home field advantages in all of football.
13. Texas A&M
9-3-05 at Clemson
9-17-05 SMU
9-24-05 TEXAS STATE
10-1-05 BAYLOR
10-8-05 at Colorado
10-15-05 OKLAHOMA STATE
10-22-05 at Kansas State
10-29-05 IOWA STATE
11-5-05 at Texas Tech
11-12-05 at Oklahoma
11-25-05 TEXAS (Fri.)
Aggies exposed? They were dominated 38-7 by Tennessee in the Cotton Bowl, but put outside of an overtime loss to Baylor, they put in a rather impressive four loss season, with three of those losses coming against top 5 opponents. They even played both Oklahoma and Texas tough. Things should be looking up for this Big XII team this year, as they'll only improve. .
What's to Like: I know I keep mentioning returning starters, but experience is a key to performance - especially early in the season. It's no difference with Texas A&M, who's returning 17 starters, incuding 9 from their 20th ranked offense. Reggie McNeal is the key to this team, and he's back for his final season with Texas a&M. Three of their four lineman are back on defense, and that will be key to this Aggies squad. Two new starters at cornerbacks could actually improve a team that had a worse pass defense then such clubs as Idaho and Army. The schedule is much easier this season then last. There's no Utah, and the team even gets Texas at home.<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s Not to Like:* McNeal makes or breaks this squad and it\'s not out of the question he\'ll break it.* The team\'s defense was rather paltry last season, and they beat most of the teams by outscoring them in shootouts.* This A&M team is already good for two losses versus Oklahoma and Texas.* How they fare on the road against teams like Colorado and Texas Tech will show us how far they\'ve come under Dennis Franchione.*
\r\n
\r\n14. Purdue
\r\n9-10-05 AKRON
\r\n9-17-05 at Arizona
\r\n9-24-05 at Minnesota
\r\n10-1-05 NOTRE DAME
\r\n10-8-05 IOWA
\r\n10-15-05 NORTHWESTERN
\r\n10-22-05 at Wisconsin
\r\n10-29-05 at Penn State
\r\n11-5-05 MICHIGAN STATE
\r\n11-12-05 ILLINOIS
\r\n11-19-05 at Indiana
\r\n
\r\nThe Boilermakers\' four defeats last year came against division foes, but they\'ll be looking up in 2005.* All you have to do is take a look at their schedule to know why this might be the year that Purdue again competes for the Big Ten crown.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to Like:* Take a look at this schedule.* Notre Dame at Home.* Iowa at Home.* Michigan State at home.* Out of conference they\'re facing doormats Arizona and Akron.* Even more important is who isn\'t on the schedule.* Take a look again and try to figure out who\'s missing?* There\'s no Ohio State or Michigan in 2005.* Oh hey, the entire defense is returning.* That\'s right, all 11 projected starters in 2005 played significant time on the defensive side of the ball last year.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s Not to Like:* Offensive stars Kyle Orton and Tyler Stubblefield won\'t be back.* Brandon Kirsch was descent playing for Orton during his injury, but can he be counted on to lead a team that will pass the ball 40 times a game?* The Boilermakers success this season will hinge on the junior signal caller\'s abilities.
\r\n
\r\n15. Georgia
\r\n9-3-05 BOISE STATE
\r\n9-10-05 SOUTH CAROLINA
\r\n9-17-05 LOUISIANA-MONROE
\r\n9-24-05 at Mississippi State
\r\n10-8-05 at Tennessee
",1]);//--></SCRIPT>
What's Not to Like: McNeal makes or breaks this squad and it's not out of the question he'll break it. The team's defense was rather paltry last season, and they beat most of the teams by outscoring them in shootouts. This A&M team is already good for two losses versus Oklahoma and Texas. How they fare on the road against teams like Colorado and Texas Tech will show us how far they've come under Dennis Franchione.
14. Purdue
9-10-05 AKRON
9-17-05 at Arizona
9-24-05 at Minnesota
10-1-05 NOTRE DAME
10-8-05 IOWA
10-15-05 NORTHWESTERN
10-22-05 at Wisconsin
10-29-05 at Penn State
11-5-05 MICHIGAN STATE
11-12-05 ILLINOIS
11-19-05 at Indiana
The Boilermakers' four defeats last year came against division foes, but they'll be looking up in 2005. All you have to do is take a look at their schedule to know why this might be the year that Purdue again competes for the Big Ten crown.
What's to Like: Take a look at this schedule. Notre Dame at Home. Iowa at Home. Michigan State at home. Out of conference they're facing doormats Arizona and Akron. Even more important is who isn't on the schedule. Take a look again and try to figure out who's missing? There's no Ohio State or Michigan in 2005. Oh hey, the entire defense is returning. That's right, all 11 projected starters in 2005 played significant time on the defensive side of the ball last year.
What's Not to Like: Offensive stars Kyle Orton and Tyler Stubblefield won't be back. Brandon Kirsch was descent playing for Orton during his injury, but can he be counted on to lead a team that will pass the ball 40 times a game? The Boilermakers success this season will hinge on the junior signal caller's abilities.
15. Georgia
9-3-05 BOISE STATE
9-10-05 SOUTH CAROLINA
9-17-05 LOUISIANA-MONROE
9-24-05 at Mississippi State
10-8-05 at Tennessee
<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","\r\n10-15-05 at Vanderbilt
\r\n10-22-05 ARKANSAS
\r\n10-29-05 vs. Florida @Jacksonville, FL
\r\n11-12-05 AUBURN
\r\n11-19-05 KENTUCKY
\r\n11-26-05 at Georgia Tech
\r\n
\r\nWhoops.* My preseason pick to be national champions last year proved me wrong.* They put in a two loss effort and came close to losing several others. Impressive, but certainly not up to the standards I held them at.* To make me feel better, they fooled a lot of people, including the media, who gave them a #3 preseason ranking.* Nonetheless, Georgia hasn\'t finished out of the top 12 since 2001, and they haven\'t lost more then four games in a season since 1996.* They\'re one of the premier programs in college football no matter what year, and this year shouldn\'t be any different.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to Like:** A deep running back rotation, including Danny Ware, Thomas Brown, and Kregg Lumpkin.* The entire offensive line once seemed like it was patched together, but now it includes all juniors and seniors, and all of whom are returning starters.* The defense returns tackles Gerald Anderson and Kedric Goldston and those big bodies should help stop the rush.** They also get Auburn and South Carolina at home.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s not to Like:* It seems like some of Georgia\'s players have been there since the beginning of time, and now suddenly, they\'re gone.* Gone is quarterback David Greene, and his top receiver Fred Gibson.* And gone is the team\'s all world defensive end David Pollack - not only a great player, but the heart of the defense.* The team also lost star underclassmen Thomas Davis to the NFL draft.* All the losses are going to be tough to overcome.* New starting quarterback D.J. Shockley was a highly touted prospect, but hasn\'t performed up to his abilities.* The Georgia team will hinge on how it can replace its former stars.
\r\n
\r\n15. Louisville
\r\n9-4-05 at Kentucky (Sun.)
\r\n10-8-05 NORTH CAROLINA
\r\nTBA vs. Cincinnati
\r\nTBA vs. Connecticut
\r\nTBA vs. Pittsburgh
\r\nTBA vs. Rutgers ",1]);//--></SCRIPT>10-15-05 at Vanderbilt
10-22-05 ARKANSAS
10-29-05 vs. Florida @Jacksonville, FL
11-12-05 AUBURN
11-19-05 KENTUCKY
11-26-05 at Georgia Tech
Whoops. My preseason pick to be national champions last year proved me wrong. They put in a two loss effort and came close to losing several others. Impressive, but certainly not up to the standards I held them at. To make me feel better, they fooled a lot of people, including the media, who gave them a #3 preseason ranking. Nonetheless, Georgia hasn't finished out of the top 12 since 2001, and they haven't lost more then four games in a season since 1996. They're one of the premier programs in college football no matter what year, and this year shouldn't be any different.
What's to Like: A deep running back rotation, including Danny Ware, Thomas Brown, and Kregg Lumpkin. The entire offensive line once seemed like it was patched together, but now it includes all juniors and seniors, and all of whom are returning starters. The defense returns tackles Gerald Anderson and Kedric Goldston and those big bodies should help stop the rush. They also get Auburn and South Carolina at home.
What's not to Like: It seems like some of Georgia's players have been there since the beginning of time, and now suddenly, they're gone. Gone is quarterback David Greene, and his top receiver Fred Gibson. And gone is the team's all world defensive end David Pollack - not only a great player, but the heart of the defense. The team also lost star underclassmen Thomas Davis to the NFL draft. All the losses are going to be tough to overcome. New starting quarterback D.J. Shockley was a highly touted prospect, but hasn't performed up to his abilities. The Georgia team will hinge on how it can replace its former stars.
15. Louisville
9-4-05 at Kentucky (Sun.)
10-8-05 NORTH CAROLINA
TBA vs. Cincinnati
TBA vs. Connecticut
TBA vs. Pittsburgh
TBA vs. Rutgers<SCRIPT><!--D(["mb","
\r\nTBA vs. South Florida
\r\nTBA vs. Syracuse
\r\nTBA vs. West Virginia
\r\nTBA 2 non-conference opponents
\r\n
\r\nDo I think the Cardinals are one of the top 15 teams in the nation?* Of course not.* But what they do have is an explosive offense and an easy schedule.* Like Boise State showed us last year, you only need to win to be ranked high.* The Big East may be a step up from Conference USA, but Louisville won\'t be challenging themselves any time soon.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s to Like:* Some of the new starters are going to be what\'s most exciting to watch this season.* New quarterback Brian Brohm was Offensive High School Player of the year, and showed us flashes of his talent when he had to replace Stefan LeFors last season.* Taking over at running back will be a beast of an athlete in Michael Bush.* Louisville has a considerably easy schedule this year, as UNC, Cincinnati, and Kentucky should be walkovers.* The Big East isn\'t likely to give them much trouble.
\r\n
\r\nWhat\'s Not to Like:* Sure they can put up points, but can Louisville stop anyone? Their relatively high defensive rank was due to the lack of talent they faced.* There\'s only one returning starter in their secondary, and the team will be very suspect to the pass.* They might be able to win their division with shootout games, but can they contend for a National Championship?* It\'s doubtful.*
\r\n</font>\r\n</font>",0]);D(["ce"]);//--></SCRIPT>
TBA vs. South Florida
TBA vs. Syracuse
TBA vs. West Virginia
TBA 2 non-conference opponents
Do I think the Cardinals are one of the top 15 teams in the nation? Of course not. But what they do have is an explosive offense and an easy schedule. Like Boise State showed us last year, you only need to win to be ranked high. The Big East may be a step up from Conference USA, but Louisville won't be challenging themselves any time soon.
What's to Like: Some of the new starters are going to be what's most exciting to watch this season. New quarterback Brian Brohm was Offensive High School Player of the year, and showed us flashes of his talent when he had to replace Stefan LeFors last season. Taking over at running back will be a beast of an athlete in Michael Bush. Louisville has a considerably easy schedule this year, as UNC, Cincinnati, and Kentucky should be walkovers. The Big East isn't likely to give them much trouble.
What's Not to Like: Sure they can put up points, but can Louisville stop anyone? Their relatively high defensive rank was due to the lack of talent they faced. There's only one returning starter in their secondary, and the team will be very suspect to the pass. They might be able to win their division with shootout games, but can they contend for a National Championship? It's doubtful.
Michigan at #2.
