On May 27th the two teams that are regarded as the two best club teams in the world will square off for the Champions League title in Rome. English Premier League's Manchester United looks to become the first team to repeat as champions since the format was changed from European Cup to Champions League for the 1992-1993 season. They are also the first team since Italian Serie A's Juventus in 1997 to return to the title game after winning the previous season. Spanish La Liga soon-to-be champions Barcelona will be back in the title for the 2nd time in 4 years; the first in which they defeated England's Arsenal for the title.
One of the major things to look for in this game will be United's game plan for attacking Barca down the sidelines. With both outside backs suspended due to cards it will surely be a makeshift defense for Barcelona. RB Dani Alves was given his 2nd yellow of the semi-final round in the 1st half at Stamford Bridge in Barcelona's 1-1 draw. In the same game LB Eric Abidal was given what appeared to be a phantom red card when Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka tripped over his own feet on a run towards the box. Do-it-all defender Rafa Marquez will also be out due to a knee injury suffered earlier in the tournament. Center back and team captain Carlos Puyol will return from his suspension and should be a big help towards solidifying the back. Gerard Pique has probably been the best defender throughout for Barca and defensive midfielder Yaya Toure was able to step into a defensive role admirably last game.
The reason that this presents such a problem for Barcelona is because United will use Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez to push up wide as well as players like Ryan Giggs and Patrice Evra who make runs down the sidelines. Having inexperienced defenders out there may present a long night for the Barcelona faithful.
Holding midfielder Darren Fletcher will miss the final for Manchester United after receiving a red card for tackling Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas in the box late in United's 4-1 semi-final win at Old Trafford. Defender Wes Brown and midfielder Owen Hargreaves will also miss the final due to injuries; although they hadn't played at all during the tournament because the injuries were obtained early in the season.
One of the big bright spots for Barcelona will be the return of forward Thierry Henry to the starting lineup. Henry missed the second leg of the semi-final vs Chelsea due to a knee injury. At full strength, Barcelona is probably the most explosive offensive team in the world. Playing with 3 midfielders and 3 forwards gives Barca a lot of firepower to wield. My pick for the starting 11 is Victor Valdes, Girard Pique, Carlos Puyol, Yaya Toure, Sylvinho, Seydou Keita, Xavi, Andres Iniesta, Thierry Henry, Samuel Eto'o, and Lionel Messi.
United has a lot of depth they can work with in their midfield and forward positions so I'm not sure who Sir Alex Ferguson will choose to start. It has been said that Sir Alex has promised playing time to midfielder Park Ji-Sung after he missed the 2008 final. My pick for the starting 11 will be Edwin Van Der Sar, Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic, John O'Shea, Patrice Evra, Paul Scholes, Ryan Giggs, Park Ji-Sung, Wayne Rooney, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Dimitar Berbatov.
Due to United's ability to create with so many different players and Barcelona's absence of their two outside backs I will have to pick United to win their back-to-back titles. I am a huge Barcelona fan, they are my favorite team along with Arsenal (I just love Thierry Henry), so it kills me to pick against them. It just seems the cards are stacked against them in this one but I wouldn't be more happy to be proved wrong. There will be some great matchups in this game though. A lot of debate has been going on over who is the best player in the world: Messi or Ronaldo. That debate could be put to rest that very night at the Stadio Olimpico.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Hall of Fame????
As I have been watching this year’s NHL Playoffs, one player that has stood out in my mind is Boston Bruins Forward and former Pittsburgh Penguin Mark Recchi. Recchi has had a decent playoff outing for Boston putting together 6 points in 10 games, but has been solid for Boston on the powerplay and back check.
Recchi has been solid for all 7 teams he has played for in his 20 year career, putting together 545 goals, 897 assist, and 1442 points so far.
Recchi has gone over 100 points in a season only 3 times, with his best being in the 1992-93 campaign when he had 53 goals to go along with 70 assist to end the season with 123 points.
Recchi has carried Lord Stanley twice; in 1991 with the Pens and again with the Hurricanes in 2006. Th 15 year difference between Cups in the second longest in NHL history.
Recchi has also been amazing trade bait throughout his career. In 1992 the Penguins traded Recchi (along with Brian Benning and a 1st rd pick) to Philadelphia for Kjell Samuelson, Rick Tocchet, and Ken Wregget. Without those 3 players the Penguins probably don't win back-to-back cups. Another example would be at the '95 trade deadline when he was dealt to Montreal from Philly for Eric Desjardins, John Leclair, and Gilbert Dionne. Desjardins and Leclair were solid players for years in Philly
If none of these things do anything for you let's compare him to a Hall of Famer.
Bryan Trottier
Trottier was a force for the Islanders during their 4 straight cups from 1980-83. He was also an experienced player for the Pens during their 2 dances with Lord Stanley in '91 and '92. Trottier finished his career with 524 goals, 901 assist, for 1425 points across 18 NHL seasons. Trottier has 6 Stanley cups to his name.
I believe that if Trottier is a Hall of Famer then Recchi should be as well.
With all this being said, I think that Mark Recchi will make it to Toronto one day. Do you?
Recchi has been solid for all 7 teams he has played for in his 20 year career, putting together 545 goals, 897 assist, and 1442 points so far.
Recchi has gone over 100 points in a season only 3 times, with his best being in the 1992-93 campaign when he had 53 goals to go along with 70 assist to end the season with 123 points.
Recchi has carried Lord Stanley twice; in 1991 with the Pens and again with the Hurricanes in 2006. Th 15 year difference between Cups in the second longest in NHL history.
Recchi has also been amazing trade bait throughout his career. In 1992 the Penguins traded Recchi (along with Brian Benning and a 1st rd pick) to Philadelphia for Kjell Samuelson, Rick Tocchet, and Ken Wregget. Without those 3 players the Penguins probably don't win back-to-back cups. Another example would be at the '95 trade deadline when he was dealt to Montreal from Philly for Eric Desjardins, John Leclair, and Gilbert Dionne. Desjardins and Leclair were solid players for years in Philly
If none of these things do anything for you let's compare him to a Hall of Famer.
Bryan Trottier
Trottier was a force for the Islanders during their 4 straight cups from 1980-83. He was also an experienced player for the Pens during their 2 dances with Lord Stanley in '91 and '92. Trottier finished his career with 524 goals, 901 assist, for 1425 points across 18 NHL seasons. Trottier has 6 Stanley cups to his name.
I believe that if Trottier is a Hall of Famer then Recchi should be as well.
With all this being said, I think that Mark Recchi will make it to Toronto one day. Do you?
Saturday, May 9, 2009
BREAKING NEWS: Podcast Talks Unleased
To all my loyal fans who have followed me since my days on SPTV. I am proud too say that that the production team at BigCat Sport Show and my advisors have begun talks on terms of starting a weekly podcast. I was told not share any information in the past because of violation in my contract to talk outside of sports or other related topics to the Web Site. I thank you for all your patience and dedication on making The Big Cat's Sports Show a genuine success. Without you we wouldn't be here. And finally thank you for the feedback you have given us to bring to you the best sports talk we possibly can. Thank you for everything and I am happy to help expand this program as far as it could possibly go.
Your Number 1 Fan
Randall Recker
Your Number 1 Fan
Randall Recker
Thursday, May 7, 2009
2009 College Football Preview: ACC
The Conference Previews Continue: ACC
Format: Returning Starters/Top Returning Players/Recruiting Class-Impact Newcomer/Quick Fact/Toughest Non-Conference Game
Altantic:
1. Florida State - It's been a while since the Seminoles have dominated the ACC but due to the lack of talent in this conference of late they have continued to be one of the top teams. With all the off field issues and scandals swirling around, there are players on the team competing in 2009. 13 starters return (8 on offense, 5 on defense). QB Christian Ponder has been making strides behind center and will only be a junior. His legs are one of his biggest assets and should help him escape trouble. All 5 offensive linemen return, however, so Ponder may not need to use his legs as much. Last year, freshman RB Jermaine Thomas burst on to the scene out of seemingly no where to ignite what had been a stagnant FSU running attack. He should only improve with his entire O-line back. Big WRs Greg Carr and Corey Surrency are lost to graduation but the Noles do bring back a few playmakers like Preston Parker. 7 starters are gone from the FSU defense but it's almost always reload not rebuild. Sophomore LB Nigel Bradham learned the ropes last season playing as a true freshman and should be ready to be the next great Florida State linebacker. He will be joined by a few others in the front 7 but 3/4 of the secondary have departed. In the case of a few other teams, losing a majority of the secondary as well as your pass rushing defensive ends may prove too costly to recover from. DE Everette Brown was one of the best sack-men in the game last season and has since taken his talent to the NFL. Rhodes scholarship winning SS Myron Rolle also left but to attend Oxford University in England for academics. The 18th ranked recruiting class of FSU brings in 2 safety's who should both compete for playing time in the secondary (Willie Downs/JaJuan Harley). This season Florida State travels to Gainesville in the annual rivalry against Florida. In addition though they also go to one of the toughest places to play in Provo, Utah vs BYU as well as welcoming in South Florida to Tallahassee.
2. North Carolina State - The Wolfpack made incredible strides last season and finished as one of the hottest in the country. True freshman QB Russell Wilson asserted himself into the starting role and never looked back. A dangerous playmaker with both his legs and arm saw him earn All-ACC honors. He is part of 8 starters back on offense, including their top 3 WRs. On defense 7 staters return, 5 of which are apart of the front 7. Ray Michel should be the leader on defense. 4-star OG Denzelle Good, part of the 39th ranked recruiting class, may be counted on to play immediately in lieu of some departures on the O-line. NC State welcomes Big East contender Pitt to Raleigh this season which should be a very good matchup. They also get South Carolina at home which is very beneficial to such a young team. Undoubtedly NC State will be a fun and exciting team to watch in 2009.
3. Boston College - Since joining the ACC in 2005 they have never won less than 9 games. It may be difficult to continue that trend this season will the loss of a quite a few key players. Head Coach Jeff Jagodzinski was fired after speaking with some NFL teams about possible jobs. 14 starters are back (7 on O, 7 on D). All-ACC OT Anthony Castonzo leads 4/5 O-linemen returning which should be the strength of the offense. Sophomore QB Dominique Davis was thrown into the fire last season when the original starter broke his collarbone; he should benefit from the experience. ACC Defensive Player of the Year LB Mark Herzlich will return for his senior season and lead the defense. He will need to play even better than last season with the loss of the starting DTs to the NFL (BJ Raji and Ron Brace). An unimpressive 81st ranked recruiting class is typical of BC who generally develops their players rather than sees them play early. One player who may need to play early though is DT Dillion Quinn. Quinn may be counted on to play as I said because of the loss of the DTs. BC should profit from their weak non-conference schedule as their only tough game should be their annual rivalry at Notre Dame.
4. Clemson - Clemson has been the trendy pick for ACC and National Titles for the past 3 or 4 seasons only to see them choke and fall into mediocrity. Despite returning 16 starters (7 on O, 9 on D), I have the Tigers 4th because of that very fact. RB CJ Spiller has returned for his senior season. Spiller is one of the most dynamic, exciting, blazing RBs in America and without having to split the load with departed senior James Davis, Spiller may make even more big plays. At the same time, however, Davis was part of the Tigers 1-2 punch at RB and QB Cullen Harper is gone as well as career leading WR Aaron Kelly. 4/5 of the O-line do return and that will help Spiller and whoever steps in at QB, which will be up for grabs. Defensively this unit should be very strong. Sophomore DE Da'Quan Bowers will continue the tradition of top-notch DE coming out of Clemson. He is part of 6/7 of the front 7 returning as well as 3/4 of the secondary comes back. The Tigers always have a ton of speed and hopefully will be able to put it to use this season. An uncharacteristic 42nd ranked recruiting class didn't produce as many big name players as usual, but 5-star QB Tahj Boyd is very athletic and should jump right into the QB battle. Along with traveling to South Carolina for the annual Textile Bowl, Clemson welcomes in "mid-major" powerhouse TCU to Death Valley. With teams like TCU, Boise State, and Utah complaining about not being considered for national championships, it's this kind of game that can be used to prove why they should be, so expect TCU to bring it all in this one.
5. Wake Forest - The Demon Deacons bring back 13 starters (9 on O, 4 on D). With 9 starters on offense coming back you may expect big things but that number can be very deceiving. QB Riley Skinner had an outstanding freshman season a few years ago but hasn't been able to get back onto that level. All 5 O-linemen return, which is a huge help, but last year's ACC receptions leader has graduated. Skinner will need to be very good for Wake to continue its recent success and bowl appearances. DT Boo Robinson will be returning to lead an extremely inexperienced defense. 3/4 of the D-line comes back but the departure of ACC Defensive Player of the Year LB Aaron Curry and the other 2 LBs as well as 3/4 of the secondary, including ACC Career Interception Leader CB Alphonso Smith, will be a massive task to overcome. 56th ranked recruiting class brings in a pair of LBs who could see some PT immediately due to the gaping holes (Justin Jackson/Daniel Mack). Wake will play an okay schedule with Baylor coming into Winston-Salem as well as what has turned into a rivalry @ Navy.
6. Maryland - The Terps only have 10 returning starters in 09. 6 of which are on offense, which will be led by RB Da'Rel Scott. Scott rushed for over 1,000 yards last season and has a nice blend of size and speed. 3 year starter QB Chris Turner will provide leadership and stability to the O. Only 2/5 of the O-line are back and the top 2 WRs are gone. The #28 recruiting class brings in 4-star OG Pete White who could earn time on the depleted line. LB Alex Wujciak will be returning from knee surgery to lead what will inevitably be a young, inexperienced defense. 6/7 of the front 7 are gone and that tends to be the heart of the D. That defense may get exposed early on whe they travel to Cal to face the Bears. Maryland also welcomes Rutgers into College Park.
Coastal:
1. Virginia Tech - Frank Beamer returns to Blackburg as one of the most seasoned coaches in the country. Junior QB Tyrod Taylor was originally supposed to be redshirted last season but the erratic play at the position forced Beamer to play his young, athetlic QB early. Taylor is part of 9 starters returning on offense, inlcuding All-ACC sophomore RB Darren Evans who turned heads his freshman season. The top 3 WRs are back as well as quarterback-turned-tight end Greg Boone. The 41st ranked recruiting class brings in the #2 overall TE Logan Thomas who may provide even more help to Taylor. 7 are back on defense that normally is one of the best units in the nation. DE Jason Worilds was All-ACC and should continue his dominance on the line. 3/4 of the secondary return but All-ACC CB Victor Harris is gone to the NFL. Virginia Tech will represent the ACC this season in their early season battle in Atlanta vs Alabama. Nebraska comes into Lane Stadium this season and the Hokies also travel to East Carolina to exact revenge for the Pirates stunning upset @ VT last season.
2. Georgia Tech - The entire option backfield returns, 9 starters overall, for Paul Johnson's offense. B-Back Jonathan Dwyer, who was All-ACC as well as led the conference in rushing, will be the work horse again. Lucas Cox and Roddy Jones also are back as the 2 A-Backs along side Dwyer. Shifty QB Josh Nesbitt will have another year of the compicated offense under his belt and should be even better. WR Demaryius Thomas is a stud on the outside despite GT relying heavily on the run. 3/5 of the O-line return to anchor the option attack. 7 are back on defense for the Ramblin Wreck. All-ACC S Morgan Burnett will anchor the secondary where all 4 starters are back. All 3 LBs also return but only 1 of the D-linemen. The 36th best recruiting class brings in DT JC Lanier who could fill a void in the middle of the D-line. The annual Georgia rivalry game has the Bulldogs coming to GT this season but the Yellow Jackets go on the road to face 2 rising SEC programs, Mississippi State and Vanderbilt.
3. North Carolina - Butch Davis has taken this program and made it a legitmate national contender. The Tar Heels returns 15 starters (6 on O, 9 on D). Davis is also one of the best recruiters in the country (#6 recruiting class). The offense loses a lot as their top 3 WRs have all departed. RB Shaun Draughn will be counted on as the workhorse and should get plenty of carries. The UNC defense will definitely be the side of the ball that wins them games. 3/4 of the secondary return, led by All-ACC CB Kendric Burney, that led the entire nation in interceptions. 6/7 of the front 7 also come back and LB Bruce Davis was a monster playing the outside spot. That 6th ranked recruiting class should provide some help at WR with 4-star Jheranie Boyd coming in. #1 DE Dante Moss also comes onto campus and should get early PT. UNC travles north to play @ UConn as well as hosting surprising mid-major East Carolina.
4. Miami - One of the youngest teams in the nation could really turn some heads if their freshmen and sophomores are able to grow up quicker than expected. 16 players are back (8 on O, 8 on D). QB Jacory Harris will lead an offense that will be very young but also extremely talented. RB Duo of Graig Cooper and Javarris James are back as well as a trio of sophomore WRs led by the uber-talented Aldarius Johnson. 3/5 of the O-line are also back and may be the only weak point. Defensively it was freshman LB Sean Spence who burst onto the scene and dominated. 5/7 of the front 7 are back as well as 3/4 of the secondary. Spence will lead one of the fastest, youngest defenses in the country. If this unit is able to avoid mistakes made by inexperience then I wouldn't be surprised to see Miami finish higher than 4th. The 24th ranked recruiting class brings in OT Jermaine Johnson who could fill in one of the vacant O-line spots. This young team will get tested very early when they travel to Norman to face one of the best teams in the country, Oklahoma. South Florida will make the trip down to South Beach as Miami hosts the Bulls.
5. Virginia - UVA has surprisingly been a pro factory as of late and that has ultimately hurt the Cavaliers losing so much talent. 14 starters are back (8 on O, 6 on D). QB Jameel Sewell is very athletic and can make plays but the top 3 WRs are gone. 4/5 of the O-line are back but the only one missing was top-10 draft pick OT Eugene Monroe. The 49th ranked recruiting class brings in OT Morgan Moses who could see PT where Monroe left. DE Matt Conrath will lead the defense where the D-line will be the strength. 3/4 LBs are gone as well as 2/4 of the secondary. Like Clemson, Virginia also hosts TCU this season and you can expect the Horned Frogs to bring their A game. UVA also travles to Southern Miss in what will be a good matchup.
6. Duke - 2nd year Head Coach David Cutcliffe has this team on the rise winning 4 games last season; that was the same amount as the 4 previous years. The only reason the Blue Devils are 6th is because they only bring back 7 total starters (4 on O, 3 on D). QB Thaddeus Lewis has been the starter since his freshman year. He is very experienced and will only get better working for a 2nd year with QB wizard Cutcliffe. 4-star RB Desmond Scott is the jewel of the 52nd ranked recruiting class and should contribute immediately. DT Vince Oghobaase is an NFL prospect who skipped the draft to return to Durham for his senior year. He will anchor what will probably be the most inexperienced defense in the country. Only 2/5 of the O-line return, 2/7 of the front 7, and 1/4 of the secondary. As if times weren't hard enough, this season will be even more challenging. A soft non-conference schedule only has Duke traveling to Kansas to take on the Jayhawks.
Format: Returning Starters/Top Returning Players/Recruiting Class-Impact Newcomer/Quick Fact/Toughest Non-Conference Game
Altantic:
1. Florida State - It's been a while since the Seminoles have dominated the ACC but due to the lack of talent in this conference of late they have continued to be one of the top teams. With all the off field issues and scandals swirling around, there are players on the team competing in 2009. 13 starters return (8 on offense, 5 on defense). QB Christian Ponder has been making strides behind center and will only be a junior. His legs are one of his biggest assets and should help him escape trouble. All 5 offensive linemen return, however, so Ponder may not need to use his legs as much. Last year, freshman RB Jermaine Thomas burst on to the scene out of seemingly no where to ignite what had been a stagnant FSU running attack. He should only improve with his entire O-line back. Big WRs Greg Carr and Corey Surrency are lost to graduation but the Noles do bring back a few playmakers like Preston Parker. 7 starters are gone from the FSU defense but it's almost always reload not rebuild. Sophomore LB Nigel Bradham learned the ropes last season playing as a true freshman and should be ready to be the next great Florida State linebacker. He will be joined by a few others in the front 7 but 3/4 of the secondary have departed. In the case of a few other teams, losing a majority of the secondary as well as your pass rushing defensive ends may prove too costly to recover from. DE Everette Brown was one of the best sack-men in the game last season and has since taken his talent to the NFL. Rhodes scholarship winning SS Myron Rolle also left but to attend Oxford University in England for academics. The 18th ranked recruiting class of FSU brings in 2 safety's who should both compete for playing time in the secondary (Willie Downs/JaJuan Harley). This season Florida State travels to Gainesville in the annual rivalry against Florida. In addition though they also go to one of the toughest places to play in Provo, Utah vs BYU as well as welcoming in South Florida to Tallahassee.
2. North Carolina State - The Wolfpack made incredible strides last season and finished as one of the hottest in the country. True freshman QB Russell Wilson asserted himself into the starting role and never looked back. A dangerous playmaker with both his legs and arm saw him earn All-ACC honors. He is part of 8 starters back on offense, including their top 3 WRs. On defense 7 staters return, 5 of which are apart of the front 7. Ray Michel should be the leader on defense. 4-star OG Denzelle Good, part of the 39th ranked recruiting class, may be counted on to play immediately in lieu of some departures on the O-line. NC State welcomes Big East contender Pitt to Raleigh this season which should be a very good matchup. They also get South Carolina at home which is very beneficial to such a young team. Undoubtedly NC State will be a fun and exciting team to watch in 2009.
3. Boston College - Since joining the ACC in 2005 they have never won less than 9 games. It may be difficult to continue that trend this season will the loss of a quite a few key players. Head Coach Jeff Jagodzinski was fired after speaking with some NFL teams about possible jobs. 14 starters are back (7 on O, 7 on D). All-ACC OT Anthony Castonzo leads 4/5 O-linemen returning which should be the strength of the offense. Sophomore QB Dominique Davis was thrown into the fire last season when the original starter broke his collarbone; he should benefit from the experience. ACC Defensive Player of the Year LB Mark Herzlich will return for his senior season and lead the defense. He will need to play even better than last season with the loss of the starting DTs to the NFL (BJ Raji and Ron Brace). An unimpressive 81st ranked recruiting class is typical of BC who generally develops their players rather than sees them play early. One player who may need to play early though is DT Dillion Quinn. Quinn may be counted on to play as I said because of the loss of the DTs. BC should profit from their weak non-conference schedule as their only tough game should be their annual rivalry at Notre Dame.
4. Clemson - Clemson has been the trendy pick for ACC and National Titles for the past 3 or 4 seasons only to see them choke and fall into mediocrity. Despite returning 16 starters (7 on O, 9 on D), I have the Tigers 4th because of that very fact. RB CJ Spiller has returned for his senior season. Spiller is one of the most dynamic, exciting, blazing RBs in America and without having to split the load with departed senior James Davis, Spiller may make even more big plays. At the same time, however, Davis was part of the Tigers 1-2 punch at RB and QB Cullen Harper is gone as well as career leading WR Aaron Kelly. 4/5 of the O-line do return and that will help Spiller and whoever steps in at QB, which will be up for grabs. Defensively this unit should be very strong. Sophomore DE Da'Quan Bowers will continue the tradition of top-notch DE coming out of Clemson. He is part of 6/7 of the front 7 returning as well as 3/4 of the secondary comes back. The Tigers always have a ton of speed and hopefully will be able to put it to use this season. An uncharacteristic 42nd ranked recruiting class didn't produce as many big name players as usual, but 5-star QB Tahj Boyd is very athletic and should jump right into the QB battle. Along with traveling to South Carolina for the annual Textile Bowl, Clemson welcomes in "mid-major" powerhouse TCU to Death Valley. With teams like TCU, Boise State, and Utah complaining about not being considered for national championships, it's this kind of game that can be used to prove why they should be, so expect TCU to bring it all in this one.
5. Wake Forest - The Demon Deacons bring back 13 starters (9 on O, 4 on D). With 9 starters on offense coming back you may expect big things but that number can be very deceiving. QB Riley Skinner had an outstanding freshman season a few years ago but hasn't been able to get back onto that level. All 5 O-linemen return, which is a huge help, but last year's ACC receptions leader has graduated. Skinner will need to be very good for Wake to continue its recent success and bowl appearances. DT Boo Robinson will be returning to lead an extremely inexperienced defense. 3/4 of the D-line comes back but the departure of ACC Defensive Player of the Year LB Aaron Curry and the other 2 LBs as well as 3/4 of the secondary, including ACC Career Interception Leader CB Alphonso Smith, will be a massive task to overcome. 56th ranked recruiting class brings in a pair of LBs who could see some PT immediately due to the gaping holes (Justin Jackson/Daniel Mack). Wake will play an okay schedule with Baylor coming into Winston-Salem as well as what has turned into a rivalry @ Navy.
6. Maryland - The Terps only have 10 returning starters in 09. 6 of which are on offense, which will be led by RB Da'Rel Scott. Scott rushed for over 1,000 yards last season and has a nice blend of size and speed. 3 year starter QB Chris Turner will provide leadership and stability to the O. Only 2/5 of the O-line are back and the top 2 WRs are gone. The #28 recruiting class brings in 4-star OG Pete White who could earn time on the depleted line. LB Alex Wujciak will be returning from knee surgery to lead what will inevitably be a young, inexperienced defense. 6/7 of the front 7 are gone and that tends to be the heart of the D. That defense may get exposed early on whe they travel to Cal to face the Bears. Maryland also welcomes Rutgers into College Park.
Coastal:
1. Virginia Tech - Frank Beamer returns to Blackburg as one of the most seasoned coaches in the country. Junior QB Tyrod Taylor was originally supposed to be redshirted last season but the erratic play at the position forced Beamer to play his young, athetlic QB early. Taylor is part of 9 starters returning on offense, inlcuding All-ACC sophomore RB Darren Evans who turned heads his freshman season. The top 3 WRs are back as well as quarterback-turned-tight end Greg Boone. The 41st ranked recruiting class brings in the #2 overall TE Logan Thomas who may provide even more help to Taylor. 7 are back on defense that normally is one of the best units in the nation. DE Jason Worilds was All-ACC and should continue his dominance on the line. 3/4 of the secondary return but All-ACC CB Victor Harris is gone to the NFL. Virginia Tech will represent the ACC this season in their early season battle in Atlanta vs Alabama. Nebraska comes into Lane Stadium this season and the Hokies also travel to East Carolina to exact revenge for the Pirates stunning upset @ VT last season.
2. Georgia Tech - The entire option backfield returns, 9 starters overall, for Paul Johnson's offense. B-Back Jonathan Dwyer, who was All-ACC as well as led the conference in rushing, will be the work horse again. Lucas Cox and Roddy Jones also are back as the 2 A-Backs along side Dwyer. Shifty QB Josh Nesbitt will have another year of the compicated offense under his belt and should be even better. WR Demaryius Thomas is a stud on the outside despite GT relying heavily on the run. 3/5 of the O-line return to anchor the option attack. 7 are back on defense for the Ramblin Wreck. All-ACC S Morgan Burnett will anchor the secondary where all 4 starters are back. All 3 LBs also return but only 1 of the D-linemen. The 36th best recruiting class brings in DT JC Lanier who could fill a void in the middle of the D-line. The annual Georgia rivalry game has the Bulldogs coming to GT this season but the Yellow Jackets go on the road to face 2 rising SEC programs, Mississippi State and Vanderbilt.
3. North Carolina - Butch Davis has taken this program and made it a legitmate national contender. The Tar Heels returns 15 starters (6 on O, 9 on D). Davis is also one of the best recruiters in the country (#6 recruiting class). The offense loses a lot as their top 3 WRs have all departed. RB Shaun Draughn will be counted on as the workhorse and should get plenty of carries. The UNC defense will definitely be the side of the ball that wins them games. 3/4 of the secondary return, led by All-ACC CB Kendric Burney, that led the entire nation in interceptions. 6/7 of the front 7 also come back and LB Bruce Davis was a monster playing the outside spot. That 6th ranked recruiting class should provide some help at WR with 4-star Jheranie Boyd coming in. #1 DE Dante Moss also comes onto campus and should get early PT. UNC travles north to play @ UConn as well as hosting surprising mid-major East Carolina.
4. Miami - One of the youngest teams in the nation could really turn some heads if their freshmen and sophomores are able to grow up quicker than expected. 16 players are back (8 on O, 8 on D). QB Jacory Harris will lead an offense that will be very young but also extremely talented. RB Duo of Graig Cooper and Javarris James are back as well as a trio of sophomore WRs led by the uber-talented Aldarius Johnson. 3/5 of the O-line are also back and may be the only weak point. Defensively it was freshman LB Sean Spence who burst onto the scene and dominated. 5/7 of the front 7 are back as well as 3/4 of the secondary. Spence will lead one of the fastest, youngest defenses in the country. If this unit is able to avoid mistakes made by inexperience then I wouldn't be surprised to see Miami finish higher than 4th. The 24th ranked recruiting class brings in OT Jermaine Johnson who could fill in one of the vacant O-line spots. This young team will get tested very early when they travel to Norman to face one of the best teams in the country, Oklahoma. South Florida will make the trip down to South Beach as Miami hosts the Bulls.
5. Virginia - UVA has surprisingly been a pro factory as of late and that has ultimately hurt the Cavaliers losing so much talent. 14 starters are back (8 on O, 6 on D). QB Jameel Sewell is very athletic and can make plays but the top 3 WRs are gone. 4/5 of the O-line are back but the only one missing was top-10 draft pick OT Eugene Monroe. The 49th ranked recruiting class brings in OT Morgan Moses who could see PT where Monroe left. DE Matt Conrath will lead the defense where the D-line will be the strength. 3/4 LBs are gone as well as 2/4 of the secondary. Like Clemson, Virginia also hosts TCU this season and you can expect the Horned Frogs to bring their A game. UVA also travles to Southern Miss in what will be a good matchup.
6. Duke - 2nd year Head Coach David Cutcliffe has this team on the rise winning 4 games last season; that was the same amount as the 4 previous years. The only reason the Blue Devils are 6th is because they only bring back 7 total starters (4 on O, 3 on D). QB Thaddeus Lewis has been the starter since his freshman year. He is very experienced and will only get better working for a 2nd year with QB wizard Cutcliffe. 4-star RB Desmond Scott is the jewel of the 52nd ranked recruiting class and should contribute immediately. DT Vince Oghobaase is an NFL prospect who skipped the draft to return to Durham for his senior year. He will anchor what will probably be the most inexperienced defense in the country. Only 2/5 of the O-line return, 2/7 of the front 7, and 1/4 of the secondary. As if times weren't hard enough, this season will be even more challenging. A soft non-conference schedule only has Duke traveling to Kansas to take on the Jayhawks.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
2009 College Football Preview: Big 12
The Conference Previews Continue: Big 12
Format: Returning Starters/Top Returning Players/Recruiting Class-Impact Newcomer/Quick Fact/Toughest Non-Conference Game
South:
1. Texas - The Longhorns enter the 2009 season coming off a spectacular 2008 campaign that came a year earlier than most people expected. Texas went 12-1, won the Fiesta Bowl, beat rival Oklahoma by 10, and their only loss was by 6 to a hot Texas Tech team on the road in the final seconds. This season, Texas returns 18 players (10 offense, 8 defense). Heisman-candidate and reigning Big-12 Offensive Player of the Year QB Colt McCoy returns to lead the offense. His roommate, best friend, and top WR Jordan Shipley was recently granted a 6th year of eligibility and will return to Austin next season. The defense lost a few playmakers but return a good core led by All-Big 12 LB Sergio Kindle who can play in coverage as well as rush off the edge. DE Brian Orakpo was one of the best sack men in the nation last season and was drafted by the Washington Redskins. 5-Star DE Alex Okafor, part of Texas' 7th ranked recruiting class, could come in and immediately contribute where Orakpo departed. Along with the return of McCoy and Shipley, Texas also returns 3 more WR with experience, RB Fozzy Whitaker, and 4/5 offensive linemen led by 2 All-Big 12 selections (OT Adam Ulatoski and C Chris Hall). The Longhorns will not face a very tough non-conference schedule but will host an athletic UCF team in Austin.
2. Oklahoma State - The Cowboys came out of nowhere in 2008 and had one of their best seasons since Barry Sanders was on campus. Things may be even brighter this season as OSU returns 16 players (9 on offense, 7 on defense). One of the top duos in the country return in WR Dez Bryant and QB Zach Robinson. Robinson was one of the four Big 12 QBs who were in consideration for the Heisman. All-Big 12 RB Kendall Hunter also returns as part of Oklahoma State returning all their skill players besides TE Brandon Pettigrew. One defense LB Andre Sexton will lead the squad and S Daytawion Lowe comes in the 45th ranked recruiting class and will probably see some time in the secondary. 6/7 of the front 7 return. The Cowboys would probably be considered the favorite if Texas wasn't bringing back as much as they were. The Big 12 South by itself will compete with the SEC as the top conference in the country. That very matchup will take flight in the first week of the season when the Georgia Bulldogs come into Stillwater to battle OSU. What a great earlier season game.
3. Oklahoma - The Sooners had the top offense in college football history last season, just over 60 point per game, but were held to only 14 in their national championship loss to Florida. The offense may not be as explosive next season with only 5 starters returning but the defense should be able to step up and carry some of the load. 9 starters return on the defensive side of the ball led by All-Big 12 and All-American DT Gerald McCoy. Heisman-winning QB Sam Bradford returns to Norman to try and lead a young offense to another great season. The Sooners 10th ranked recruiting class will add some depth the defensive backfield with 5-star CB Gabe Lynn. One of the major problems for OU next season won't be at QB but it may be keeping Bradford off the turf. Oklahoma loses 4/5 of their O-line who rarely let Bradford get touched which allowed him to be such an accurate and effective passer. Also, running back duo DeMarco Murray and Chris Brown will find it harder to find holes up front. If Oklahoma's young, inexperienced O-line is able to gel they may be able to compete with Texas for the Big 12 South title but I wouldn't count on it. They'll open the season in Dallas vs BYU and then have to travel to Miami to take on a very, very young, athletic Hurricanes team that seems primed for success. Like I said earlier though, the defense may be able to carry the Sooners long enough for the O-line to gel as they get their entire front 7 back. This will be an interesting team to follow next season, especially Bradford's decision to not enter the draft. We'll see if that decision will pay off with such question marks on the offensive line.
4. Texas Tech - One of the best years in school history in 2008 seems like it will be very tough to repeat. Only 11 total starters return, including only 4 on the fast-paced offense. WR Detron Lewis should be the main target but who will throw him the ball is the biggest question. Record breaking QB Graham Harrell graduates as well as 2-time Biletnikoff (Nation's best WR) award winner WR Michael Crabtree. In addition to that, the Red Raiders lose their slot WR, RB, and 2 OL. CB Jamar Wall leads 7 returning starters on defense, and in a strange role reversal for Lubbock, should be the side of the ball that carries the team. Theoretically. 30th ranked recruiting class will see OT Joel Gray come in and perhaps contribute to one of the departed OL spots. 5/7 of the front 7 return, including all 3 LBs. An easier non-conference schedule will help but a trip to Houston to take on the Cougars will be a lot tougher than people anticipate.
5. Baylor - There's not much to say about Baylor besides QB Robert Griffin. One of the best freshman in the country is a do-it-all kind of guy who can make plays for the Bearcats. Griffin will be one of eight starters returning on offense, which includes the top 2 WRs and RB. 8 starters return on defense as well including all 3 of their LBs, as well as All-Big 12 selection Joe Pawelek. WR Darius Jones, part of the 44th ranked recruiting class, may come in to help Griffin and provide another target. Look for Penn State transfer DT Phil Taylor to make a big impact as he was part of the DT rotation in Happy Valley before he transferred. Their toughest game will come in Winston-Salem against the Demon Deacons of Wake Forest.
6. Texas A&M - It's not often you seen this program ranked so low but that's been the trend of late in College Station. 13 starters return (8 on O, 5 on D). QB Jerrod Johnson will take full command of the offense after splitting time with departed senior QB Stephen McGee. 4/5 offensive linemen also return so that will help out the young QB as well. Johnson is very big (6'5 230lbs) and has drawn some comparisons to former Texas QB Vince Young. He isn't quite as athletic or fast but has the playmaking ability Young had. LB Matt Featherston comes back to try and lead what will be an inexperienced defense. 5-star RB Christine Michael headlines the Aggies 12th ranked recruiting class. Although it seems like A&M may have a lot going for them I don't think their offense will be able to keep up with the amounts of points their young defense will allow. A few games into the season the Arkansas Razorbacks come a calling and will be a good test.
North:
1. Kansas - The Jayhawks are favorites to win an extremely weak North division. 14 starters come back, 7 on each side of the ball. The QB-WR combination of Todd Reesing-Dezmon Briscoe return and should be very tough to stop. However, only 2/5 of the O-line come back. SS Darrell Stuckey leads a Kansas secondary that sees all of its starters back. 3/4 of the D-line return as well but all 3 LBs have departed and that is the heart and soul of most defenses. A 50th ranked recruiting class isn't impressive but DE Kevin Young could come in and fill the vacant spot on the D-line. Southern Miss will be the only non-conference test KU sees this season and it will be in Lawrence.
2. Nebraska - The Cornhuskers continue to desperately try to restore themselves as college football royalty and they are continuing to move up the ladder back towards that goal. Only 13 starters come back (6 on O, 7 on D). The Huksers lose their QB, RB, and the top 2 WRs. The O-line, however, returns 4/5 including All-Big 12 OT Mike Smith. Their 33rd ranked recruiting class may see their next starting QB in it with Cody Green. I wouldn't be shocked to see him given a shot. Defensively the "Blackshirt" defense hasn't been the same in nearly a decade but DT Ndamukong Suh will be a force in the middle. Nebraska also returns 3/4 of the secondary. If they want to return themselves to an elite program they will need to show up on national television early in the year, in Blacksburg, with Metallica's Enter Sandman blasting through the PA system, vs the Virginia Tech Hokies.
3. Colorado - The Buffaloes are a very intriguing team coming into '09. 19 starters return (10 on O, 9 on D). The #1 RB prospect in 2007, Darrell Scott, seems ready to shoulder the load as he enters his sophomore year. The only loss of offense is one offensive lineman. All other positions return intact including junior QB Cody Hawkins, son of head coach Dan Hawkins. LB Jeff Smart led the team in tackles in 2008 and returns in the middle of what should be an experienced defense. 6/7 front 7 return as well as 3/4 of the secondary. Freshman DE Nick Kasa could see early playing time as part of the 57th ranked recruiting class. Last season Colorado was able to knock off Big East power West Virginia in Boulder but this season they will go into the hostile Milan-Pulskar stadium in Morgantown. Revenge will undoubtedly be on the mind of the Mountaineers.
4. Missouri - The perrenial Big 12 North favorite for the past few seasons will need to rebuild before they're able to make it back to the top. Only 9 total starters are returning. 5 of them are on offense led by All-Big 12 RB Derrick Washington. All the other skill positions will be gone though. QB Chase Daniel, TE Chase Coffman, and their top 2 WRs including do-it-all Jeremy Maclin will be gone. All-Big 12 LB Sean Witherspoon is back to lead an even more depleted defense. Only 4 starters are back. 3/4 of the secondary are gone and only 3/7 of the front 7 are back. The 38th ranked recruiting class may bring in some help for them in 5-star DT Shelden Richardson. He should contribute immediately. The defense will be tested earlier on when they travel to Reno and face the heavy option running attack of Nevada.
5. Kansas State - QB Josh Freeman was an immaculately major part of the Wildcats offense. He's gone to the NFL. This isn't good news for fans in the "Little Apple." Only 11 total starters are returning, including 4 on offense. WR Brandon Banks will be the best player but there currently is no one to throw him the ball. The only positive of the 7 returning on D will be the entire secondary returning intact. CB tandem Blair Irvin and Josh Moore will make it very tough for teams to pass the ball but only 2/7 of the front 7 coming back may not have teams throwing at all. Massive gaps up front should allow teams to run the ball at-will vs. K-State. The Wildcats have an absolutely miserable recruiting class, infact it's the 7th worst in the nation, #112. The only newcomer making an impact will probably be DE Jeffery Fitzgerald, a transfer. K-State may get taken to the woodshed early when they have to travel the Rose Bowl and play UCLA.
6. Iowa State - The Cyclones haven't been much better than last since Seneca Wallace was behind center. Their head coach Gene Chizik, has left for Auburn where he was once defensive coordinator, to become head coach. Coincidently, Auburn defensive coordinator Paul Rhodes comes to Ames to coach Iowa State. Only 12 starters come back. 7 are on offense, including QB Austen Arnaud. He will be surrounded by some talent as the RB, TE, and top WR also return. Only 5 are back on D. 3/4 of the D-line are gone. The CB duo of Leonard Johnson and Ter'ran Benton will make it tough to throw but in the same case as Kansas State, opposing teams may not have to throw. Their annual rivalry game for the Cy-Hawk trophy has them traveling to Iowa City to face Iowa. The Hawkeyes should dominate this game the same way they've dominated the series as of late.
Format: Returning Starters/Top Returning Players/Recruiting Class-Impact Newcomer/Quick Fact/Toughest Non-Conference Game
South:
1. Texas - The Longhorns enter the 2009 season coming off a spectacular 2008 campaign that came a year earlier than most people expected. Texas went 12-1, won the Fiesta Bowl, beat rival Oklahoma by 10, and their only loss was by 6 to a hot Texas Tech team on the road in the final seconds. This season, Texas returns 18 players (10 offense, 8 defense). Heisman-candidate and reigning Big-12 Offensive Player of the Year QB Colt McCoy returns to lead the offense. His roommate, best friend, and top WR Jordan Shipley was recently granted a 6th year of eligibility and will return to Austin next season. The defense lost a few playmakers but return a good core led by All-Big 12 LB Sergio Kindle who can play in coverage as well as rush off the edge. DE Brian Orakpo was one of the best sack men in the nation last season and was drafted by the Washington Redskins. 5-Star DE Alex Okafor, part of Texas' 7th ranked recruiting class, could come in and immediately contribute where Orakpo departed. Along with the return of McCoy and Shipley, Texas also returns 3 more WR with experience, RB Fozzy Whitaker, and 4/5 offensive linemen led by 2 All-Big 12 selections (OT Adam Ulatoski and C Chris Hall). The Longhorns will not face a very tough non-conference schedule but will host an athletic UCF team in Austin.
2. Oklahoma State - The Cowboys came out of nowhere in 2008 and had one of their best seasons since Barry Sanders was on campus. Things may be even brighter this season as OSU returns 16 players (9 on offense, 7 on defense). One of the top duos in the country return in WR Dez Bryant and QB Zach Robinson. Robinson was one of the four Big 12 QBs who were in consideration for the Heisman. All-Big 12 RB Kendall Hunter also returns as part of Oklahoma State returning all their skill players besides TE Brandon Pettigrew. One defense LB Andre Sexton will lead the squad and S Daytawion Lowe comes in the 45th ranked recruiting class and will probably see some time in the secondary. 6/7 of the front 7 return. The Cowboys would probably be considered the favorite if Texas wasn't bringing back as much as they were. The Big 12 South by itself will compete with the SEC as the top conference in the country. That very matchup will take flight in the first week of the season when the Georgia Bulldogs come into Stillwater to battle OSU. What a great earlier season game.
3. Oklahoma - The Sooners had the top offense in college football history last season, just over 60 point per game, but were held to only 14 in their national championship loss to Florida. The offense may not be as explosive next season with only 5 starters returning but the defense should be able to step up and carry some of the load. 9 starters return on the defensive side of the ball led by All-Big 12 and All-American DT Gerald McCoy. Heisman-winning QB Sam Bradford returns to Norman to try and lead a young offense to another great season. The Sooners 10th ranked recruiting class will add some depth the defensive backfield with 5-star CB Gabe Lynn. One of the major problems for OU next season won't be at QB but it may be keeping Bradford off the turf. Oklahoma loses 4/5 of their O-line who rarely let Bradford get touched which allowed him to be such an accurate and effective passer. Also, running back duo DeMarco Murray and Chris Brown will find it harder to find holes up front. If Oklahoma's young, inexperienced O-line is able to gel they may be able to compete with Texas for the Big 12 South title but I wouldn't count on it. They'll open the season in Dallas vs BYU and then have to travel to Miami to take on a very, very young, athletic Hurricanes team that seems primed for success. Like I said earlier though, the defense may be able to carry the Sooners long enough for the O-line to gel as they get their entire front 7 back. This will be an interesting team to follow next season, especially Bradford's decision to not enter the draft. We'll see if that decision will pay off with such question marks on the offensive line.
4. Texas Tech - One of the best years in school history in 2008 seems like it will be very tough to repeat. Only 11 total starters return, including only 4 on the fast-paced offense. WR Detron Lewis should be the main target but who will throw him the ball is the biggest question. Record breaking QB Graham Harrell graduates as well as 2-time Biletnikoff (Nation's best WR) award winner WR Michael Crabtree. In addition to that, the Red Raiders lose their slot WR, RB, and 2 OL. CB Jamar Wall leads 7 returning starters on defense, and in a strange role reversal for Lubbock, should be the side of the ball that carries the team. Theoretically. 30th ranked recruiting class will see OT Joel Gray come in and perhaps contribute to one of the departed OL spots. 5/7 of the front 7 return, including all 3 LBs. An easier non-conference schedule will help but a trip to Houston to take on the Cougars will be a lot tougher than people anticipate.
5. Baylor - There's not much to say about Baylor besides QB Robert Griffin. One of the best freshman in the country is a do-it-all kind of guy who can make plays for the Bearcats. Griffin will be one of eight starters returning on offense, which includes the top 2 WRs and RB. 8 starters return on defense as well including all 3 of their LBs, as well as All-Big 12 selection Joe Pawelek. WR Darius Jones, part of the 44th ranked recruiting class, may come in to help Griffin and provide another target. Look for Penn State transfer DT Phil Taylor to make a big impact as he was part of the DT rotation in Happy Valley before he transferred. Their toughest game will come in Winston-Salem against the Demon Deacons of Wake Forest.
6. Texas A&M - It's not often you seen this program ranked so low but that's been the trend of late in College Station. 13 starters return (8 on O, 5 on D). QB Jerrod Johnson will take full command of the offense after splitting time with departed senior QB Stephen McGee. 4/5 offensive linemen also return so that will help out the young QB as well. Johnson is very big (6'5 230lbs) and has drawn some comparisons to former Texas QB Vince Young. He isn't quite as athletic or fast but has the playmaking ability Young had. LB Matt Featherston comes back to try and lead what will be an inexperienced defense. 5-star RB Christine Michael headlines the Aggies 12th ranked recruiting class. Although it seems like A&M may have a lot going for them I don't think their offense will be able to keep up with the amounts of points their young defense will allow. A few games into the season the Arkansas Razorbacks come a calling and will be a good test.
North:
1. Kansas - The Jayhawks are favorites to win an extremely weak North division. 14 starters come back, 7 on each side of the ball. The QB-WR combination of Todd Reesing-Dezmon Briscoe return and should be very tough to stop. However, only 2/5 of the O-line come back. SS Darrell Stuckey leads a Kansas secondary that sees all of its starters back. 3/4 of the D-line return as well but all 3 LBs have departed and that is the heart and soul of most defenses. A 50th ranked recruiting class isn't impressive but DE Kevin Young could come in and fill the vacant spot on the D-line. Southern Miss will be the only non-conference test KU sees this season and it will be in Lawrence.
2. Nebraska - The Cornhuskers continue to desperately try to restore themselves as college football royalty and they are continuing to move up the ladder back towards that goal. Only 13 starters come back (6 on O, 7 on D). The Huksers lose their QB, RB, and the top 2 WRs. The O-line, however, returns 4/5 including All-Big 12 OT Mike Smith. Their 33rd ranked recruiting class may see their next starting QB in it with Cody Green. I wouldn't be shocked to see him given a shot. Defensively the "Blackshirt" defense hasn't been the same in nearly a decade but DT Ndamukong Suh will be a force in the middle. Nebraska also returns 3/4 of the secondary. If they want to return themselves to an elite program they will need to show up on national television early in the year, in Blacksburg, with Metallica's Enter Sandman blasting through the PA system, vs the Virginia Tech Hokies.
3. Colorado - The Buffaloes are a very intriguing team coming into '09. 19 starters return (10 on O, 9 on D). The #1 RB prospect in 2007, Darrell Scott, seems ready to shoulder the load as he enters his sophomore year. The only loss of offense is one offensive lineman. All other positions return intact including junior QB Cody Hawkins, son of head coach Dan Hawkins. LB Jeff Smart led the team in tackles in 2008 and returns in the middle of what should be an experienced defense. 6/7 front 7 return as well as 3/4 of the secondary. Freshman DE Nick Kasa could see early playing time as part of the 57th ranked recruiting class. Last season Colorado was able to knock off Big East power West Virginia in Boulder but this season they will go into the hostile Milan-Pulskar stadium in Morgantown. Revenge will undoubtedly be on the mind of the Mountaineers.
4. Missouri - The perrenial Big 12 North favorite for the past few seasons will need to rebuild before they're able to make it back to the top. Only 9 total starters are returning. 5 of them are on offense led by All-Big 12 RB Derrick Washington. All the other skill positions will be gone though. QB Chase Daniel, TE Chase Coffman, and their top 2 WRs including do-it-all Jeremy Maclin will be gone. All-Big 12 LB Sean Witherspoon is back to lead an even more depleted defense. Only 4 starters are back. 3/4 of the secondary are gone and only 3/7 of the front 7 are back. The 38th ranked recruiting class may bring in some help for them in 5-star DT Shelden Richardson. He should contribute immediately. The defense will be tested earlier on when they travel to Reno and face the heavy option running attack of Nevada.
5. Kansas State - QB Josh Freeman was an immaculately major part of the Wildcats offense. He's gone to the NFL. This isn't good news for fans in the "Little Apple." Only 11 total starters are returning, including 4 on offense. WR Brandon Banks will be the best player but there currently is no one to throw him the ball. The only positive of the 7 returning on D will be the entire secondary returning intact. CB tandem Blair Irvin and Josh Moore will make it very tough for teams to pass the ball but only 2/7 of the front 7 coming back may not have teams throwing at all. Massive gaps up front should allow teams to run the ball at-will vs. K-State. The Wildcats have an absolutely miserable recruiting class, infact it's the 7th worst in the nation, #112. The only newcomer making an impact will probably be DE Jeffery Fitzgerald, a transfer. K-State may get taken to the woodshed early when they have to travel the Rose Bowl and play UCLA.
6. Iowa State - The Cyclones haven't been much better than last since Seneca Wallace was behind center. Their head coach Gene Chizik, has left for Auburn where he was once defensive coordinator, to become head coach. Coincidently, Auburn defensive coordinator Paul Rhodes comes to Ames to coach Iowa State. Only 12 starters come back. 7 are on offense, including QB Austen Arnaud. He will be surrounded by some talent as the RB, TE, and top WR also return. Only 5 are back on D. 3/4 of the D-line are gone. The CB duo of Leonard Johnson and Ter'ran Benton will make it tough to throw but in the same case as Kansas State, opposing teams may not have to throw. Their annual rivalry game for the Cy-Hawk trophy has them traveling to Iowa City to face Iowa. The Hawkeyes should dominate this game the same way they've dominated the series as of late.
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