Big Ten Legends Projected Standings
Nebraska, 6-2, 10-3
Michigan State, 6-2, 10-2
Northwestern, 5-3, 8-4
Iowa, 4-4, 8-4
Michigan, 4-4, 7-5
Minnesota, 0-8, 3-9
Big Ten Leaders Projected Standings
Wisconsin, 6-2, 11-2
Illinois, 5-3, 8-4
Ohio State, 5-3, 9-3
Penn State, 4-4, 7-5
Purdue, 2-6, 5-7
Indiana, 1-7, 5-7
Big Ten Championship Game
Wisconsin over Nebraska
Big Ten Synopsis
(Time permitting)
Team most likely to exceed my expectations: Ohio State. My projected drop-off combines the result of having key players suspended and breaking in a new quarterback. There is enough talent to make me look very wrong.
Team most likely to play below my expectation: Northwestern. The Wildcats will not get 5 conference wins if Persa is not fully healthy or the defense plays like they did at the end of 2010.
Big Ten Player of the Year
Dan Persa, QB, Northwestern
Games to Watch
September 10 - Alabama at Penn State
September 17 - Ohio State at Miami
September 17 - Michigan State at Notre Dame
September 17 - Washington at Nebraska
October 1 - Nebraska at Wisconsin
October 1 - Michigan State at Ohio State
October 8 - Ohio State at Nebraska
October 15 - Ohio State at Illinois
October 22 - Wisconsin at Michigan State
October 29 - Wisconsin at Ohio State
October 29 - Michigan State at Nebraska
November 19 - Wisconsin at Illinois
November 26 - Michigan State at Northwestern
Upset Alert
September 3 - Western Michigan at Michigan
September 17 - Wisconsin at Northern Illinois
Bowl Destinations
Rose Bowl: Wisconsin
Capitol One Bowl: Nebraska
Outback Bowl: Michigan State
Gator Bowl: Ohio State
Insight Bowl: Illinois
Meineke Car Care Bowl: Penn State
Little Caesars Bowl: Northwestern
Ticket City Bowl: Iowa
Pinstripe Bowl: Michigan
Sports Blog specializing in Bracketology
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Big East Preview (updated September 1, 2011)
Big East Projected Standings
West Virginia, 6-1, 9-3
Pittsburgh, 6-1, 9-3
South Florida, 5-2, 9-3
Syracuse, 4-3, 8-4
Connecticut, 2-5, 7-5
Louisville, 2-5, 5-7
Cincinnati, 2-5, 5-7
Rutgers, 1-6, 3-9
Big East Synopsis
The battle for the Big East Title should be a 3-team race. West Virginia is my pick to win the conference, with offensive guru Dana Holgorsen taking over as coach. Holgorsen is blessed with QB Geno Smith who led the Big East in passing efficiency a year ago and tossed 24 TD's. The Mountaineers must replace some defensive parts, but with Pittsburgh visiting Morgantown, the opportunity appears there for West Virginia to secure a BCS bid.
If West Virginia slips, Pittsburgh is in position to take advantage. Despite a crazy off-season with the coaching change, the Panthers return 8 starters from a defense that ranked #8 nationally in 2010. On offense Pittsburgh returns the most explosive player in the Big East in Ray Graham, who averaged over 6 yards per carry last year and now steps into more carries with Dion Lewis departing. The main question for this team will be chemistry with a new coaching staff, but if the players buy-in it may be Pitt returning to the BCS.
South Florida has a legitimate shot at taking the next step toward a conference title, but the offense must be better if that is going to happen. Quarterback B.J. Daniels is one of four returning starters on an offense that was 105th nationally in total yards a year ago. They may get a boost from Colorado transfer Darrell Scott at RB and with 6 returning defenders on a defense ranked 17th nationally in 2010, the Bulls could find a way to steal the Big East in 2011.
Syracuse surprised a lot of people in 2010 and now must prove that they are not the Syracuse team of recent history. The Orange are another team that struggled offensively at times last season, but with 8 returning starters and Antwon Bailey ready to step-in at RB, they should be improved on that side of the ball. The key will be whether a defense that was #7 nationally in 2010 can replace 6 seniors starters. The 'Cuse also must be better at home to ensure a 2nd consecutive bowl appearance.
Coming off a Big East title, Connecticut must replace their coach and one of the nation's best RB's in Jordan Todman. The good news is that the defense returns 9 starters from a unit that was #35 nationally in scoring defense. The bad news is the offense even with Todman was #96 overall and must also break-in a new quarterback. The Huskies should ride their defense back to a bowl game, but another BCS berth is far-fetched in 2011.
Louisville made strides under Charlie Strong and won a bowl game in 2010. Now they must overcome the loss of 8 starters on offense, including a new quarterback and tailback. Strong is a defensive-minded coach and the Cardinals should once again be formidable on that side of the ball. A major obstacle between Louisville and a bowl bid is the schedule, which includes non-conference trips to Kentucky and North Carolina and 4 out of 7 conference games on the road.
Cincinnati is tough to figure out. The offense returns Zach Collaros at quarterback and a major weapon at WR in DJ Woods, but they turned the ball over way too often a year ago. 8 likely starters return on a defense that was last or near last in defense in the Big East a year ago. That may not be a good thing.
Rutgers figures to improve but that may not translate into a bowl bid yet this year. One player to watch will be freshman RB Savon Huggins who will be given every opportunity to burst on the scene in his 1st year.
Team most likely to exceed my expectations: Cincinnati. If the turnover problem gets fixed and experience is what the defense needs, the Bearcats will likely end up in a bowl game.
Team most likely to play below my expectation: Syracuse. The Orange have not been a bowl staple in recent history, so two-in-a-row might be pushing it.
Big East Player of the Year
Ray Graham, RB, Pittsburgh
Games to Watch
September 3 - South Florida at Notre Dame
September 17 - West Virginia at Maryland
September 17 - Pittsburgh at Iowa
September 24 - LSU at West Virginia
September 24 - Notre Dame at Pittsburgh
September 29 - South Florida at Pittsburgh
October 21 - West Virginia at Syracuse
November 19 - Miami at South Florida
November 25 - Pittsburgh at West Virginia
December 1 - West Virginia at South Florida
Upset Alert
September 24 - Toledo at Syracuse
Bowl Destinations
Orange Bowl: West Virginia
Champs Sports Bowl: Pittsburgh
Belk Bowl: South Florida
Pinstripe Bowl: Syracuse
BBVA Compass Bowl: Connecticut
West Virginia, 6-1, 9-3
Pittsburgh, 6-1, 9-3
South Florida, 5-2, 9-3
Syracuse, 4-3, 8-4
Connecticut, 2-5, 7-5
Louisville, 2-5, 5-7
Cincinnati, 2-5, 5-7
Rutgers, 1-6, 3-9
Big East Synopsis
The battle for the Big East Title should be a 3-team race. West Virginia is my pick to win the conference, with offensive guru Dana Holgorsen taking over as coach. Holgorsen is blessed with QB Geno Smith who led the Big East in passing efficiency a year ago and tossed 24 TD's. The Mountaineers must replace some defensive parts, but with Pittsburgh visiting Morgantown, the opportunity appears there for West Virginia to secure a BCS bid.
If West Virginia slips, Pittsburgh is in position to take advantage. Despite a crazy off-season with the coaching change, the Panthers return 8 starters from a defense that ranked #8 nationally in 2010. On offense Pittsburgh returns the most explosive player in the Big East in Ray Graham, who averaged over 6 yards per carry last year and now steps into more carries with Dion Lewis departing. The main question for this team will be chemistry with a new coaching staff, but if the players buy-in it may be Pitt returning to the BCS.
South Florida has a legitimate shot at taking the next step toward a conference title, but the offense must be better if that is going to happen. Quarterback B.J. Daniels is one of four returning starters on an offense that was 105th nationally in total yards a year ago. They may get a boost from Colorado transfer Darrell Scott at RB and with 6 returning defenders on a defense ranked 17th nationally in 2010, the Bulls could find a way to steal the Big East in 2011.
Syracuse surprised a lot of people in 2010 and now must prove that they are not the Syracuse team of recent history. The Orange are another team that struggled offensively at times last season, but with 8 returning starters and Antwon Bailey ready to step-in at RB, they should be improved on that side of the ball. The key will be whether a defense that was #7 nationally in 2010 can replace 6 seniors starters. The 'Cuse also must be better at home to ensure a 2nd consecutive bowl appearance.
Coming off a Big East title, Connecticut must replace their coach and one of the nation's best RB's in Jordan Todman. The good news is that the defense returns 9 starters from a unit that was #35 nationally in scoring defense. The bad news is the offense even with Todman was #96 overall and must also break-in a new quarterback. The Huskies should ride their defense back to a bowl game, but another BCS berth is far-fetched in 2011.
Louisville made strides under Charlie Strong and won a bowl game in 2010. Now they must overcome the loss of 8 starters on offense, including a new quarterback and tailback. Strong is a defensive-minded coach and the Cardinals should once again be formidable on that side of the ball. A major obstacle between Louisville and a bowl bid is the schedule, which includes non-conference trips to Kentucky and North Carolina and 4 out of 7 conference games on the road.
Cincinnati is tough to figure out. The offense returns Zach Collaros at quarterback and a major weapon at WR in DJ Woods, but they turned the ball over way too often a year ago. 8 likely starters return on a defense that was last or near last in defense in the Big East a year ago. That may not be a good thing.
Rutgers figures to improve but that may not translate into a bowl bid yet this year. One player to watch will be freshman RB Savon Huggins who will be given every opportunity to burst on the scene in his 1st year.
Team most likely to exceed my expectations: Cincinnati. If the turnover problem gets fixed and experience is what the defense needs, the Bearcats will likely end up in a bowl game.
Team most likely to play below my expectation: Syracuse. The Orange have not been a bowl staple in recent history, so two-in-a-row might be pushing it.
Big East Player of the Year
Ray Graham, RB, Pittsburgh
Games to Watch
September 3 - South Florida at Notre Dame
September 17 - West Virginia at Maryland
September 17 - Pittsburgh at Iowa
September 24 - LSU at West Virginia
September 24 - Notre Dame at Pittsburgh
September 29 - South Florida at Pittsburgh
October 21 - West Virginia at Syracuse
November 19 - Miami at South Florida
November 25 - Pittsburgh at West Virginia
December 1 - West Virginia at South Florida
Upset Alert
September 24 - Toledo at Syracuse
Bowl Destinations
Orange Bowl: West Virginia
Champs Sports Bowl: Pittsburgh
Belk Bowl: South Florida
Pinstripe Bowl: Syracuse
BBVA Compass Bowl: Connecticut
Pac 12 Preview (Updated September 1, 2011)
PAC 12 North Projected Standings
Oregon, 8-1, 12-1
Stanford, 7-2, 10-2
Washington, 6-3, 8-4
California, 3-6, 6-6
Oregon State, 3-6, 4-8
Washington State, 1-8, 3-9
PAC 12 South Projected Standings
Arizona State, 7-2, 8-5
USC, 7-2, 9-3
Utah, 6-3, 7-5
Arizona, 3-6, 5-7
Colorado, 2-7, 3-10
UCLA, 2-7, 3-10
PAC 12 Championship Game
Oregon over Arizona State
PAC 12 Synopsis
(Time permitting)
Team most likely to exceed my expectations: Oregon State. The Beavers have experience on offense and could surprise if their defense exceeds expectation.
Team most likely to play below my expectation: Washington. Its possible replacing Jake Locker will be harder than I think. Or maybe Steve Sarkisian isn't as good a coach as I think.
PAC 12 Player of the Year
Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford
Games to Watch
September 3 - Oregon vs LSU
September 9 - Missouri at Arizona State
September 17 - Utah at BYU
September 17 - Washington at Nebraska
September 17 - Arizona State at Illinois
September 24 - USC at Arizona State
October 15 - Arizona State at Oregon
October 22 - USC at Notre Dame
October 29 - Stanford at USC
November 5 - Oregon at Washington
November 12 - Oregon at Stanford
November 12 - Washington at USC
November 26 - Notre Dame at Stanford
Bowl Destinations
Rose Bowl: Oregon
Alamo Bowl: Stanford
Holiday Bowl: Arizona State
Sun Bowl: Washington
Las Vegas Bowl: Utah
Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl: California
Oregon, 8-1, 12-1
Stanford, 7-2, 10-2
Washington, 6-3, 8-4
California, 3-6, 6-6
Oregon State, 3-6, 4-8
Washington State, 1-8, 3-9
PAC 12 South Projected Standings
Arizona State, 7-2, 8-5
USC, 7-2, 9-3
Utah, 6-3, 7-5
Arizona, 3-6, 5-7
Colorado, 2-7, 3-10
UCLA, 2-7, 3-10
PAC 12 Championship Game
Oregon over Arizona State
PAC 12 Synopsis
(Time permitting)
Team most likely to exceed my expectations: Oregon State. The Beavers have experience on offense and could surprise if their defense exceeds expectation.
Team most likely to play below my expectation: Washington. Its possible replacing Jake Locker will be harder than I think. Or maybe Steve Sarkisian isn't as good a coach as I think.
PAC 12 Player of the Year
Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford
Games to Watch
September 3 - Oregon vs LSU
September 9 - Missouri at Arizona State
September 17 - Utah at BYU
September 17 - Washington at Nebraska
September 17 - Arizona State at Illinois
September 24 - USC at Arizona State
October 15 - Arizona State at Oregon
October 22 - USC at Notre Dame
October 29 - Stanford at USC
November 5 - Oregon at Washington
November 12 - Oregon at Stanford
November 12 - Washington at USC
November 26 - Notre Dame at Stanford
Bowl Destinations
Rose Bowl: Oregon
Alamo Bowl: Stanford
Holiday Bowl: Arizona State
Sun Bowl: Washington
Las Vegas Bowl: Utah
Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl: California
ACC Preview (Updated September 1, 2011)
Update: Due to the suspensions and cloud hanging over the Miami program, I have changed the projected standings and bowl predictions for the ACC.
ACC Atlantic Projected Standings
Florida State, 8-0, 13-0
Maryland, 6-2, 9-3
North Carolina State, 5-3, 9-3
Clemson, 4-4, 7-5
Boston College, 3-5, 4-8
Wake Forest, 0-8, 2-10
ACC Coastal Projected Standings
Virginia Tech, 8-0, 12-1
Miami, 4-4, 6-6
North Carolina, 4-4, 7-5
Duke, 2-6, 5-7
Georgia Tech, 2-6, 5-7
Virginia, 2-6, 4-8
ACC Championship Game
Florida State over Virginia Tech
ACC Synopsis
After a little down period, the ACC appears to be back with at least 5 strong teams in 2011 and 2 viable National Title Contenders. Florida State leads the way in Jimbo Fisher's 2nd year. The Seminoles are turning the quarterback reins over to EJ Manuel, who is 4-2 as a fill-in starter for the now departed Christian Ponder. The 'Noles are loaded on defense and have some explosive offensive playmakers. Oklahoma comes to Tallahassee on September 17th in a game with potential huge National Title implications. I think FSU prevails and runs the table through the ACC, with a very manageable road schedule and Maryland, NC State and Miami all visiting Tallahassee.
The sleeper ACC and National Title contender is Virginia Tech. Despite losing Tyrod Taylor and their top two running backs, Frank Beamer always finds adequate replacements. David Wilson could explode onto the scene at RB this year. While this might not be a vintage Hokie squad, the National Title consideration hinges from a favorable schedule unrivaled by any other team in 2011. VA Tech has four very manageable non-conference games and then proceeds to play the four worst ACC teams on the road. If the Hokies can win their home games vs Miami, Clemson, Boston College and North Carolina, they could set-up an undefeated showdown in the ACC Championship Game with Florida State.
I really like Maryland this year, despite a coaching change. Randy Edsall was having success with lesser talent and now gets potentially the ACC's best QB in Danny O'Brien at his disposal. The defense should take another step forward, which will make Maryland an ACC Title contender. Two tough home games vs Miami and West Virginia start the schedule and will go along way toward determining the success of this season in College Park.
North Carolina State looks to ride a solid defense and manageable schedule into the title picture as well. Mike Glennon replaces the departed Russell Wilson at QB and will need to play well to take NC State to the next level.
Miami is the enigma of the conference. Always loaded with talent, the Hurricanes made way too many mistakes in 2010 with turnovers and penalties. Al Golden arrives as coach and sorting out the QB position will be an on-going task in Miami as Jacory Harris gets one last chance to shine. If the defense can improve against the run and Harris lives up to his former potential, the 'Canes could be the surprise team of the ACC.
Clemson and North Carolina appear to field solid squads that will earn bowl-eligibility, but will need a huge surprise to compete for the Conference Title.
If there is a team I am most likely to wrong on, its Boston College. The Eagles could not score in 2010 and I don't see enough improvement to offset a brutal road schedule plus home games vs FSU and NC State.
Duke can pass the ball around the lot with almost anybody, but lacks talent on defense to make any noise. Georgia Tech likely takes one more step back with all the offensive talent they have lost the last two years. Virginia may be improved, but is still overmatched by the ACC elite. Finally, Wake Forest is destined for another disappointing year at the bottom of the ACC.
Games to Watch
September 17 - Oklahoma at Florida State
September 17 - West Virginia at Maryland
September 17 - Ohio State at Miami
October 8 - Miami at Virginia Tech
October 22 - Maryland at Florida State
November 12 - Miami at Florida State
November 12 - Notre Dame at Maryland
November 26 - Maryland at North Carolina State
Upset Alert
September 10 - Virginia Tech at East Carolina
ACC Player of the Year
Danny O'Brien, QB, Maryland
Team Most Likely to Exceed (my) Expectations: Miami. The talent is always there if it can come together.
Team Most Likely to Fail to meet (my) Expectaions: Florida State. I have set the bar at the highest level for a team who hasn't been at that level for a longer time than you think.
Bowl Destinations
National Championship Game: Florida State
Chick-fil-A Bowl: Virginia Tech
Champs Sports Bowl: Maryland
Hyundai Sun Bowl: North Carolina State
Belk Bowl: Clemson
Music City Bowl: Miami
Independence Bowl: North Carolina
ACC Atlantic Projected Standings
Florida State, 8-0, 13-0
Maryland, 6-2, 9-3
North Carolina State, 5-3, 9-3
Clemson, 4-4, 7-5
Boston College, 3-5, 4-8
Wake Forest, 0-8, 2-10
ACC Coastal Projected Standings
Virginia Tech, 8-0, 12-1
Miami, 4-4, 6-6
North Carolina, 4-4, 7-5
Duke, 2-6, 5-7
Georgia Tech, 2-6, 5-7
Virginia, 2-6, 4-8
ACC Championship Game
Florida State over Virginia Tech
ACC Synopsis
After a little down period, the ACC appears to be back with at least 5 strong teams in 2011 and 2 viable National Title Contenders. Florida State leads the way in Jimbo Fisher's 2nd year. The Seminoles are turning the quarterback reins over to EJ Manuel, who is 4-2 as a fill-in starter for the now departed Christian Ponder. The 'Noles are loaded on defense and have some explosive offensive playmakers. Oklahoma comes to Tallahassee on September 17th in a game with potential huge National Title implications. I think FSU prevails and runs the table through the ACC, with a very manageable road schedule and Maryland, NC State and Miami all visiting Tallahassee.
The sleeper ACC and National Title contender is Virginia Tech. Despite losing Tyrod Taylor and their top two running backs, Frank Beamer always finds adequate replacements. David Wilson could explode onto the scene at RB this year. While this might not be a vintage Hokie squad, the National Title consideration hinges from a favorable schedule unrivaled by any other team in 2011. VA Tech has four very manageable non-conference games and then proceeds to play the four worst ACC teams on the road. If the Hokies can win their home games vs Miami, Clemson, Boston College and North Carolina, they could set-up an undefeated showdown in the ACC Championship Game with Florida State.
I really like Maryland this year, despite a coaching change. Randy Edsall was having success with lesser talent and now gets potentially the ACC's best QB in Danny O'Brien at his disposal. The defense should take another step forward, which will make Maryland an ACC Title contender. Two tough home games vs Miami and West Virginia start the schedule and will go along way toward determining the success of this season in College Park.
North Carolina State looks to ride a solid defense and manageable schedule into the title picture as well. Mike Glennon replaces the departed Russell Wilson at QB and will need to play well to take NC State to the next level.
Miami is the enigma of the conference. Always loaded with talent, the Hurricanes made way too many mistakes in 2010 with turnovers and penalties. Al Golden arrives as coach and sorting out the QB position will be an on-going task in Miami as Jacory Harris gets one last chance to shine. If the defense can improve against the run and Harris lives up to his former potential, the 'Canes could be the surprise team of the ACC.
Clemson and North Carolina appear to field solid squads that will earn bowl-eligibility, but will need a huge surprise to compete for the Conference Title.
If there is a team I am most likely to wrong on, its Boston College. The Eagles could not score in 2010 and I don't see enough improvement to offset a brutal road schedule plus home games vs FSU and NC State.
Duke can pass the ball around the lot with almost anybody, but lacks talent on defense to make any noise. Georgia Tech likely takes one more step back with all the offensive talent they have lost the last two years. Virginia may be improved, but is still overmatched by the ACC elite. Finally, Wake Forest is destined for another disappointing year at the bottom of the ACC.
Games to Watch
September 17 - Oklahoma at Florida State
September 17 - West Virginia at Maryland
September 17 - Ohio State at Miami
October 8 - Miami at Virginia Tech
October 22 - Maryland at Florida State
November 12 - Miami at Florida State
November 12 - Notre Dame at Maryland
November 26 - Maryland at North Carolina State
Upset Alert
September 10 - Virginia Tech at East Carolina
ACC Player of the Year
Danny O'Brien, QB, Maryland
Team Most Likely to Exceed (my) Expectations: Miami. The talent is always there if it can come together.
Team Most Likely to Fail to meet (my) Expectaions: Florida State. I have set the bar at the highest level for a team who hasn't been at that level for a longer time than you think.
Bowl Destinations
National Championship Game: Florida State
Chick-fil-A Bowl: Virginia Tech
Champs Sports Bowl: Maryland
Hyundai Sun Bowl: North Carolina State
Belk Bowl: Clemson
Music City Bowl: Miami
Independence Bowl: North Carolina
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Big 12 Preview
Big 12 Projected Standings
Oklahoma State, 8-1, 11-1
Oklahoma, 8-1, 10-2
Texas A&M, 7-2, 10-2
Missouri, 7-2, 10-2
Texas, 5-4, 8-4
Baylor, 4-5, 6-6
Texas Tech, 3-6, 6-6
Kansas State, 2-7, 4-8
Iowa State, 1-8, 2-10
Kansas, 0-9, 1-11
Big 12 Synopsis
The Big 12 is now 10. Out with the Big 12 Championship game and in with a full round-robin conference schedule. A new era starts in the conference and 4, potentially 5 teams appear loaded with the opportunity to grab the first conference crown in the post-Nebraska era.
Oklahoma State comes off a tremendous season, but defensive breakdowns in the Nebraska and Oklahoma games prevented it from being truly special. The Cowboys are loaded on offense again, with all-everything WR Justin Blackmon returning to pair with QB Brandon Whedon. All five offensive lineman return, which should help OK State with two tough September road games. The key in Stillwater will be the defense, most notably how the defense responds against the powers in the Big 12. With an offense loaded again, I think the defense will be good enough to win the Conference Title and BCS bid.
Oklahoma's duo of Landry Jones and Ryan Broyles matches that of their in-state rivals. The Sooners have a lot of talent on defense, but must improve on their #53 NCAA overall ranking from a year ago to reach the heights some experts are predicting for 2011. Jones has also struggled in big road games, with a trip to Tallahassee looming in the second game and a trip to Stillwater in the season finale. I would not be shocked if the Sooners ran the table, but Jones and the defense must prove it to me.
I am not sure if their will be any residual effect of Texas A&M being public enemy #1 in the Big 12. Their current flirtation with the SEC has to put a target on the Aggies back. All of that not withstanding, this Texas A&M team could be special. 18 starters return from a team who won 6 of their last 7 games last year, including wins over Oklahoma and Nebraska who played in the Big 12 Title Game. Cyrus Gray and Jeff Fuller lead the offense and the defense made significant strides last year. If the defense continues its improvement and the breaks fall right, it could be A&M atop the Big 12 when the dust clears in 2011.
Missouri returns 16 starters from a year ago, but one that they need to replace is at the quarterback position where Blaine Gabbert has moved on. Gabbert's younger brother Tyler will compete with James Franklin for the job. Honestly, even with older brother Blaine, the Tigers offense was fairly pedestrian in 2010, ranking only 8th in scoring offense in the Big 12 a year ago. With 4 returning seniors on the offensive line and experience at WR and RB, the offense could be better in 2011. Combine that with an always solid defense and a 4th 10-win season in 5 years is entirely possible in Columbia.
Then there is Texas. What happened to the Longhorns a year ago? Was 2010 just a huge fluke? Or is there some rebuilding work to do? Unfortunately, the four teams I have already mentioned appear to be way more explosive offensively than Texas, so if the Longhorns are going to make a mark it will be with their defense. If Garrett Gilbert or another QB emerges, Texas will join the group above them. More likely, they will make strides but be stuck in the middle of the conference standings in 2011.
Baylor and Texas Tech should both be good enough to secure bowl bids in 2011. Robert Griffin might be the best QB in the conference, but the Baylor defense is porous. The Red Raiders are almost as bad defensively and must replace all of their skill position players.
Bill Snyder got Kansas State back to a bowl in 2010, but with a new quarterback and the full round-robin schedule in conference, a 2011 bowl bid seems like a long shot. Iowa State will continue to improve defensively, but their are too many new offensive starters to see much progress this year. Kansas will struggle to win a conference game as underclassmen will play significant roles in 2011.
Team most likely to exceed my expectations: Texas. The Longhorns defense may be the Big 12's best, so any offensive improvement could get Texas back in the Title mix.
Team most likely to play below my expectation: Missouri. If the Tigers new QB's struggle, the Tigers could fall back to the middle of the pack.
Big 12 Player of the Year
Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma State
Games to Watch
September 9 - Missouri at Arizona State
September 17 - Oklahoma at Florida State
September 24 - Missouri at Oklahoma
September 24 - Oklahoma State at Texas A&M
October 1 - Arkansas at Texas A&M
October 15 - Oklahoma State at Texas
October 22 - Oklahoma State at Missouri
November 5 - Texas A&M at Oklahoma
December 3 - Oklahoma at Oklahoma State
Upset Alert
September 3 - SMU at Texas A&M
September 17 - Oklahoma State at Tulsa
Bowl Destinations
Fiesta Bowl: Oklahoma State
Sugar Bowl: Oklahoma
Cotton Bowl: Texas A&M
Alamo Bowl: Missouri
Insight Bowl: Texas
Holiday Bowl: Baylor
Meineke Car Care Bowl: Texas Tech
Oklahoma State, 8-1, 11-1
Oklahoma, 8-1, 10-2
Texas A&M, 7-2, 10-2
Missouri, 7-2, 10-2
Texas, 5-4, 8-4
Baylor, 4-5, 6-6
Texas Tech, 3-6, 6-6
Kansas State, 2-7, 4-8
Iowa State, 1-8, 2-10
Kansas, 0-9, 1-11
Big 12 Synopsis
The Big 12 is now 10. Out with the Big 12 Championship game and in with a full round-robin conference schedule. A new era starts in the conference and 4, potentially 5 teams appear loaded with the opportunity to grab the first conference crown in the post-Nebraska era.
Oklahoma State comes off a tremendous season, but defensive breakdowns in the Nebraska and Oklahoma games prevented it from being truly special. The Cowboys are loaded on offense again, with all-everything WR Justin Blackmon returning to pair with QB Brandon Whedon. All five offensive lineman return, which should help OK State with two tough September road games. The key in Stillwater will be the defense, most notably how the defense responds against the powers in the Big 12. With an offense loaded again, I think the defense will be good enough to win the Conference Title and BCS bid.
Oklahoma's duo of Landry Jones and Ryan Broyles matches that of their in-state rivals. The Sooners have a lot of talent on defense, but must improve on their #53 NCAA overall ranking from a year ago to reach the heights some experts are predicting for 2011. Jones has also struggled in big road games, with a trip to Tallahassee looming in the second game and a trip to Stillwater in the season finale. I would not be shocked if the Sooners ran the table, but Jones and the defense must prove it to me.
I am not sure if their will be any residual effect of Texas A&M being public enemy #1 in the Big 12. Their current flirtation with the SEC has to put a target on the Aggies back. All of that not withstanding, this Texas A&M team could be special. 18 starters return from a team who won 6 of their last 7 games last year, including wins over Oklahoma and Nebraska who played in the Big 12 Title Game. Cyrus Gray and Jeff Fuller lead the offense and the defense made significant strides last year. If the defense continues its improvement and the breaks fall right, it could be A&M atop the Big 12 when the dust clears in 2011.
Missouri returns 16 starters from a year ago, but one that they need to replace is at the quarterback position where Blaine Gabbert has moved on. Gabbert's younger brother Tyler will compete with James Franklin for the job. Honestly, even with older brother Blaine, the Tigers offense was fairly pedestrian in 2010, ranking only 8th in scoring offense in the Big 12 a year ago. With 4 returning seniors on the offensive line and experience at WR and RB, the offense could be better in 2011. Combine that with an always solid defense and a 4th 10-win season in 5 years is entirely possible in Columbia.
Then there is Texas. What happened to the Longhorns a year ago? Was 2010 just a huge fluke? Or is there some rebuilding work to do? Unfortunately, the four teams I have already mentioned appear to be way more explosive offensively than Texas, so if the Longhorns are going to make a mark it will be with their defense. If Garrett Gilbert or another QB emerges, Texas will join the group above them. More likely, they will make strides but be stuck in the middle of the conference standings in 2011.
Baylor and Texas Tech should both be good enough to secure bowl bids in 2011. Robert Griffin might be the best QB in the conference, but the Baylor defense is porous. The Red Raiders are almost as bad defensively and must replace all of their skill position players.
Bill Snyder got Kansas State back to a bowl in 2010, but with a new quarterback and the full round-robin schedule in conference, a 2011 bowl bid seems like a long shot. Iowa State will continue to improve defensively, but their are too many new offensive starters to see much progress this year. Kansas will struggle to win a conference game as underclassmen will play significant roles in 2011.
Team most likely to exceed my expectations: Texas. The Longhorns defense may be the Big 12's best, so any offensive improvement could get Texas back in the Title mix.
Team most likely to play below my expectation: Missouri. If the Tigers new QB's struggle, the Tigers could fall back to the middle of the pack.
Big 12 Player of the Year
Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma State
Games to Watch
September 9 - Missouri at Arizona State
September 17 - Oklahoma at Florida State
September 24 - Missouri at Oklahoma
September 24 - Oklahoma State at Texas A&M
October 1 - Arkansas at Texas A&M
October 15 - Oklahoma State at Texas
October 22 - Oklahoma State at Missouri
November 5 - Texas A&M at Oklahoma
December 3 - Oklahoma at Oklahoma State
Upset Alert
September 3 - SMU at Texas A&M
September 17 - Oklahoma State at Tulsa
Bowl Destinations
Fiesta Bowl: Oklahoma State
Sugar Bowl: Oklahoma
Cotton Bowl: Texas A&M
Alamo Bowl: Missouri
Insight Bowl: Texas
Holiday Bowl: Baylor
Meineke Car Care Bowl: Texas Tech
Thursday, August 4, 2011
College Football Preview
After a one-month hiatus, I have poured over the upcoming College Football Season and my preview is almost ready for reveal. Check back over the next few weeks as I provide my pre-season rankings, conference predictions and analysis, and predictions for all 35 Bowl match-ups!!
Friday, July 8, 2011
Random Thoughts - July 8, 2011
After all those lists and a little vacation time, I thought I'd get back in the swing with some randoms...
- 55 days until the College Football season starts!! 62 days until the NFL season starts??
- This lockout sure is wreaking havoc on Fantasy Football...don't the owners and players understand that?
- The NBA lockout is destined to be even messier, which is not good for LeBron James and the last impression he was able to give us...Hey LeBron, what are you going to wake up and do tomorrow now?
- I used to love Wimbledon, but as I have gained more priorities, apparently Tennis was one of the things that got replaced. Unfortunately, the United States feels the same way as I do.
- Speaking of United States, can't believe we are about a year away from another Summer Olympics...There goes that 17 days of productivity next year.
- My new Home Run Derby Format - 9 AL hitters vs 9 NL hitters, Old School 9-inning HR Derby style, each player gets 3 outs...While it might prevent anyone from getting in a huge groove, it should also prevent anyone from ruining their swing for the 2nd half.
- Tim Lincecum should not be an All-Star this year, that was a lazy selection.
- All-Star Break Awards
- AL CY Young - Justin Verlander
- AL Rookie of the Year - Michael Pineda
- AL MVP - Adrian Gonzalez
- NL CY Young - Jair Jurrjens
- NL Rookie of the Year - Freddie Freeman
- NL MVP - Prince Fielder
- The surprising Indians, Pirates and Diamondbacks will be forgotten by season's end.
- I liked Cars 2 better than Hangover 2.
- Blake Lively caught my attention in Green Lantern. Also, I wonder what the other guy from the pizza place is doing?
- I enjoyed Toby Keith at Summerfest but I can't believe he turns 50 today.
- Damn, still 55 days until College Football. Maybe I should preview that or something?
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