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Sports Blog specializing in Bracketology
Thursday, September 1, 2011
2011 College Football Preview - Top 74 (Updated September 1, 2011)
Jabesblog will start its 2011 College Football Preview with a reveal of my Top 74 teams. Why 74 you ask? I am predicting that there will be 74 teams with bowl-eligible records. With 70 spots available in bowls, 4 of these teams will be left out. At the current time, one of these 74 teams is ineligible for a bowl in 2011 (USC). A second team could be added to this equation pending the NCAA investigation of Ohio State. I have left records out at this point and will reveal them in the Conference Previews.
Other Conference Projected Standings and Bowls
Conference USA East Projected Standings
Central Florida, 6-2, 9-4 (Armed Forces Bowl)
Southern Mississippi, 5-3, 8-4 (New Orleans Bowl)
East Carolina 5-3, 6-6 (Ticket City Bowl)
UAB, 4-4, 6-6
Marshall, 4-4, 5-7
Memphis, 0-8, 1-11
Conference USA West Projected Standings
SMU, 7-1, 10-3 (Liberty Bowl)
Houston, 6-2, 10-2 (Hawaii Bowl)
Tulsa, 6-2, 7-5 (Beef O'Brady's Bowl)
Rice, 2-6, 2-10
Tulane, 2-6, 3-10
UTEP, 1-7, 3-9
Conference USA Championship Game: SMU over Central Florida
Mountain West Projected Standings
Boise State, 7-0, 12-0 (Fiesta Bowl)
TCU, 5-2, 9-3 (Las Vegas Bowl)
Air Force, 5-2, 9-3 (Independence Bowl)
San Diego State, 5-2, 8-4 (Poinsettia Bowl)
Colorado State, 3-4, 6-6 (New Mexico Bowl)
Wyoming, 2-5, 5-7
New Mexico, 1-6, 3-9
UNLV, 0-7, 1-11
MAC East Projected Standings
Miami, 7-1, 8-5 (Humanitarian Bowl)
Ohio, 6-2, 7-5
Temple, 5-3, 6-6
Kent State, 3-5, 5-7
Bowling Green, 3-5, 4-8
Buffalo, 1-7, 2-10
Akron, 1-7, 2-10
MAC West Projected Standings
Toledo, 7-1, 9-4 (GoDaddy.Com Bowl)
Northern Illinois, 7-1, 10-2 (Little Caesars Bowl)
Western Michigan, 6-2, 8-4 (Military Bowl)
Central Michigan, 3-5, 4-8
Ball State, 2-6, 2-10
Eastern Michigan, 1-7, 3-9
MAC Championship Game: Toledo over Miami
WAC Projected Standings
Nevada, 7-0, 9-3 (Poinsettia Bowl)
Hawaii, 5-2, 9-4 (Hawaii Bowl)
Fresno State, 5-2, 7-6 (Humanitarian Bowl)
Lousiana Tech, 5-2, 6-6 (New Mexico Bowl)
Idaho, 2-5, 4-8
Utah State, 2-5, 4-8
San Jose State, 1-6, 1-11
New Mexico State, 1-6, 1-11
Sun Belt Projected Standings
Florida International, 6-2, 7-5 (New Orleans Bowl)
Troy, 6-2, 6-6 (GoDaddy.com Bowl)
Louisiana-Monroe, 6-2, 7-5 (Beef O'Bradys Bowl)
Arkansas State, 5-3, 7-5 (BBVA Compass Bowl)
Western Kentucky, 4-4, 5-7
Middle Tennessee, 3-5, 4-8
North Texas, 3-5, 3-9
Louisiana Lafayette, 2-6, 3-9
Florida Atlantic, 1-7, 1-11
Independents
Notre Dame, 10-2 (Sugar Bowl)
BYU, 9-3 (Armed Forces Bowl)
Navy, 7-5 (Military Bowl)
Army, 7-5 (Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl)
Central Florida, 6-2, 9-4 (Armed Forces Bowl)
Southern Mississippi, 5-3, 8-4 (New Orleans Bowl)
East Carolina 5-3, 6-6 (Ticket City Bowl)
UAB, 4-4, 6-6
Marshall, 4-4, 5-7
Memphis, 0-8, 1-11
Conference USA West Projected Standings
SMU, 7-1, 10-3 (Liberty Bowl)
Houston, 6-2, 10-2 (Hawaii Bowl)
Tulsa, 6-2, 7-5 (Beef O'Brady's Bowl)
Rice, 2-6, 2-10
Tulane, 2-6, 3-10
UTEP, 1-7, 3-9
Conference USA Championship Game: SMU over Central Florida
Mountain West Projected Standings
Boise State, 7-0, 12-0 (Fiesta Bowl)
TCU, 5-2, 9-3 (Las Vegas Bowl)
Air Force, 5-2, 9-3 (Independence Bowl)
San Diego State, 5-2, 8-4 (Poinsettia Bowl)
Colorado State, 3-4, 6-6 (New Mexico Bowl)
Wyoming, 2-5, 5-7
New Mexico, 1-6, 3-9
UNLV, 0-7, 1-11
MAC East Projected Standings
Miami, 7-1, 8-5 (Humanitarian Bowl)
Ohio, 6-2, 7-5
Temple, 5-3, 6-6
Kent State, 3-5, 5-7
Bowling Green, 3-5, 4-8
Buffalo, 1-7, 2-10
Akron, 1-7, 2-10
MAC West Projected Standings
Toledo, 7-1, 9-4 (GoDaddy.Com Bowl)
Northern Illinois, 7-1, 10-2 (Little Caesars Bowl)
Western Michigan, 6-2, 8-4 (Military Bowl)
Central Michigan, 3-5, 4-8
Ball State, 2-6, 2-10
Eastern Michigan, 1-7, 3-9
MAC Championship Game: Toledo over Miami
WAC Projected Standings
Nevada, 7-0, 9-3 (Poinsettia Bowl)
Hawaii, 5-2, 9-4 (Hawaii Bowl)
Fresno State, 5-2, 7-6 (Humanitarian Bowl)
Lousiana Tech, 5-2, 6-6 (New Mexico Bowl)
Idaho, 2-5, 4-8
Utah State, 2-5, 4-8
San Jose State, 1-6, 1-11
New Mexico State, 1-6, 1-11
Sun Belt Projected Standings
Florida International, 6-2, 7-5 (New Orleans Bowl)
Troy, 6-2, 6-6 (GoDaddy.com Bowl)
Louisiana-Monroe, 6-2, 7-5 (Beef O'Bradys Bowl)
Arkansas State, 5-3, 7-5 (BBVA Compass Bowl)
Western Kentucky, 4-4, 5-7
Middle Tennessee, 3-5, 4-8
North Texas, 3-5, 3-9
Louisiana Lafayette, 2-6, 3-9
Florida Atlantic, 1-7, 1-11
Independents
Notre Dame, 10-2 (Sugar Bowl)
BYU, 9-3 (Armed Forces Bowl)
Navy, 7-5 (Military Bowl)
Army, 7-5 (Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl)
SEC Preview
SEC East Projected Standings
South Carolina, 6-2, 10-3
Georgia, 6-2, 9-3
Florida, 5-3, 8-4
Tennessee, 2-6, 6-6
Kentucky, 2-6, 6-6
Vanderbilt, 1-7, 2-10
SEC West Projected Standings
Alabama, 7-1, 12-1
LSU, 6-2, 9-3
Mississippi State, 5-3, 9-3
Arkansas, 5-3, 8-4
Auburn, 2-6, 5-7
Mississippi, 1-7, 3-9
SEC Championship Game
Alabama over South Carolina
Team most likely to exceed my expectations: Auburn. Some people feel Auburn will re-load, but the depth of this conference doesn't necessarily allow that when you suffer the personnel losses the Tigers did. I could be wrong, but I have the Tigers home for the Bowl Season.
Team most likely to play below my expectation: Mississippi State. I honestly feel like Mississippi State can challenge for the SEC West title if a few things materialize, mainly consistent QB and LB play. Or they could just be in that next tier where everyone else has them.
SEC Player of the Year
Marcus Lattimore, RB, South Carolina
Games to Watch
September 3 - Oregon vs LSU
September 3 - Boise State vs Georgia
September 10 - South Carolina at Georgia
September 10 - Alabama at Penn State
September 24 - LSU at West Virginia
October 1 - Arkansas at Texas A&M
October 1 - Alabama at Florida
November 5 - LSU at Alabama
November 12 - Alabama at Mississippi State
November 12 - Florida at South Carolina
November 25 - Arkansas at LSU
November 26 - Florida State at Florida
Upset Alert
October 8 - Mississippi State at UAB
Bowl Destinations
National Championship: Alabama
Sugar: LSU
Capital One: South Carolina
Cotton: Mississippi State
Gator: Georgia
Outback: Florida
Chick Fil-A: Arkansas
Music City: Tennessee
Liberty: Kentucky
South Carolina, 6-2, 10-3
Georgia, 6-2, 9-3
Florida, 5-3, 8-4
Tennessee, 2-6, 6-6
Kentucky, 2-6, 6-6
Vanderbilt, 1-7, 2-10
SEC West Projected Standings
Alabama, 7-1, 12-1
LSU, 6-2, 9-3
Mississippi State, 5-3, 9-3
Arkansas, 5-3, 8-4
Auburn, 2-6, 5-7
Mississippi, 1-7, 3-9
SEC Championship Game
Alabama over South Carolina
Team most likely to exceed my expectations: Auburn. Some people feel Auburn will re-load, but the depth of this conference doesn't necessarily allow that when you suffer the personnel losses the Tigers did. I could be wrong, but I have the Tigers home for the Bowl Season.
Team most likely to play below my expectation: Mississippi State. I honestly feel like Mississippi State can challenge for the SEC West title if a few things materialize, mainly consistent QB and LB play. Or they could just be in that next tier where everyone else has them.
SEC Player of the Year
Marcus Lattimore, RB, South Carolina
Games to Watch
September 3 - Oregon vs LSU
September 3 - Boise State vs Georgia
September 10 - South Carolina at Georgia
September 10 - Alabama at Penn State
September 24 - LSU at West Virginia
October 1 - Arkansas at Texas A&M
October 1 - Alabama at Florida
November 5 - LSU at Alabama
November 12 - Alabama at Mississippi State
November 12 - Florida at South Carolina
November 25 - Arkansas at LSU
November 26 - Florida State at Florida
Upset Alert
October 8 - Mississippi State at UAB
Bowl Destinations
National Championship: Alabama
Sugar: LSU
Capital One: South Carolina
Cotton: Mississippi State
Gator: Georgia
Outback: Florida
Chick Fil-A: Arkansas
Music City: Tennessee
Liberty: Kentucky
Big Ten Preview (Updated September 1, 2011)
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
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
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
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