Projected Postseason Top 25: #1 LSU

Throughout this top 25, I have featured teams with explosive running attacks, talented passing games and stout attacking defenses. To win a National Championship in 2007 a team will need all of these ingredients. It would also help if they “hosted” the championship game itself. Ladies and Gentlemen the most complete team in the country and The Pride and The Pageantry’s Projected Postseason National Champion the LSU Tigers!

Projected Record and Bowl Result: 14-0 Beat Texas in BCS National Championship Game

Who they’ll beat: Mississippi State (Road), Virginia Tech (Home), Middle Tennessee (Home), South Carolina (Home), Tulane (Road), Florida (Home), Kentucky (Road), Auburn (Home), Alabama (Road), Louisiana Tech (Home), Mississippi (Road), Arkansas (Home), Florida (Atlanta, GA)

Who’ll beat them: None

When they Pass: Just because JaMarcus Russell is now almost in the NFL, doesn’t mean the Bayou Bengals are lost at quarterback. Fifth-year Senior Matt Mauck lead LSU to a romp over Miami in the 2005 Peach Bowl. Now he will lead the Tigers throwing to Early Doucet and Brandon Lafell

When they Run: Les (Fewer) Miles will continue to use a committee approach to the running back position. The offensive line should be the SEC’s best.
When their Opponents Run: Very few teams will have success getting anything pass Glenn Dorsey and this defensive line. All three linebackers return as well.

When their Opponents Pass: Both corners from the nation’s 3rd ranked passing defense return for their senior year. Jonathan Zenon and Chevis Jackson will be shutting down a lot of the SEC’s best receivers.

When they Kick: The third Colt, Colt David returns as LSU’s kicker. David was solid if not often used going 8 for 13 on field goal attempts.

When they call Timeout: Les Miles has been talking A LOT. About his team, and others and other conferences. Former Nebraska coach Bo Pelini leads the defense which is year in year out among the nation’s best. Les Miles can do a lot in 2007 to make Baton Rouge forget Nick Saban forever.

Projected Postseason Top 25: #2 Texas

While most freshman quarterbacks struggle out of the gate, Colt McCoy suffered no growing pains. The Texas quarterback with the Texas name has taken the torch from Vince Young and the national championship expectations. His receivers only add to the excitement and if the Longhorn defense improves over last year, Texas could be playing for its second national championship in three years.

Projected Record and Bowl Result: 13-1 Lose to #1 in BCS National Championship Game
Who they’ll beat: Arkansas State (Home), TCU (Home), UCF (Road), Rice (Home), Kansas State (Home), Oklahoma (Dallas, TX), Iowa State (Road), Baylor (Road), Nebraska (Home), Oklahoma State (Road), Texas Tech (Home), Texas A&M (Road), Missouri (San Antonio, TX)

Who’ll beat them: #1 (New Orleans, LA)

When they Pass: Colt McCoy will be in his second year throwing to a group of receivers that is by far the best in the Big XII. Limas Sweed, Billy Pittman, Quan Cosby are just the starters of this deep deep group which should see plenty of balls in the air in Austin.

When they Run: The offensive line rebuilds but if they gel quickly Jamaal Charles averaged 7.4 yards a game last season. He could come close to that this season as well.

When their Opponents Run: Derek Lokey and Frank Odom are the senior defensive tackles. Texas had the nations third best rushing defense in 2006.

When their Opponents Pass: For as many members of the Texas secondary went in the first round of the NFL draft, you think they would have been better than 99th against the pass. Safety Marcus Griffin is the only returnee from a unit which must improve its play from last year.

When they Kick: Ryan Bailey who beat Nebraska with a late field goal off the bench takes over the starting kicking role.

When they call Timeout: On the hot seat for a good while, now Mack Brown is sitting pretty, having just signed an extension that keeps him in Austin for the foreseeable future. Defensive guru Gene Chizik has moved on to a head coaching job at Iowa State. Secondary coach Duane Akina takes over as defensive coordinator.

Projected Postseason Top 25: #3 USC

Do you remember those segments on ESPN two years ago matching up USC against college football’s greatest teams? Are you ready to see that again? Me neither. USC might be the “Most Now” team in college football, but as predicted earlier, they are going to hiccup on this nightmare schedule. I predicted when, but it could happen in any of the tough out of conference road contests as well. Its hard to deny the Trojans are loaded though and its easy to see why just about everyone has them holding the crystal in New Orleans.

Projected Record and Bowl Result: 12-1 Beat Ohio State in Fiesta Bowl

Who they’ll beat: Idaho (Home), Nebraska (Road), Washington State (Home), Washington (Road), Stanford (Home), Arizona (Home), Notre Dame (Road), Oregon (Road), Oregon State (Home), Arizona State (Road), UCLA (Home), Ohio State (Glendale, AZ)

Who’ll beat them: California (Road)

When they Pass: John David Booty is to some the favorite to win the Heisman trophy. How much of that is because of Booty’s talents or USC’s quarterback Heisman pedigree is what will be decided this season. Booty will have to throw to two new receivers as Steve Smith and Dwayne Jarrett are both in the NFL

When they Run: Running back by committee? USC could run a running back by jury approach, almost. 11 running backs on the roster, most were named high school All-Americans by someone. Senior Chauncey Washington should start at least the first series of the first game. How many running backs play for the Trojans this year would be a great over/under bet to place in Vegas.

When their Opponents Run: Six returning starters on what should be the best defense in America. Sedrick Ellis will have his name announced by Roger Goodell during the NFL draft and quite a few members of this front seven should be drafted at some point too. Have fun trying to run on this defense.

When their Opponents Pass: While four starters return, many Pac Ten offenses will try to beat USC this way which could lead to you getting to know the names of Terrell Thomas, Cary Harris, Kevin Ellison and Travis Mays as they make plays all season long.

When they Kick: Mario Danelo died in an accident. David Buehler takes over the kicking duties.

When they call Timeout: Pete Carroll makes winning in college football look easy. The best recruiter in the country he has made USC forever a destination school. And he knows the NFL doesn’t give him the best chance to succeed, USC does.

Projected Postseason Top 25: #4 West Virginia

Rich Rodriguez was all but gone to Tuscaloosa in January of this year. Every “reliable” news source had him in Alabama ready to sign on the dotted line. Then he decided at the last minute to pass up the rebuilding process at frantic Alabama and see the 2007 season, and quarterback Pat White and running back Steve Slaton, through. How special the season will be will depend on the improvement of the defense. We know one thing. Win or Lose West Virginia has already won a national championship…in partying.

Projected Record and Bowl Result: 12-1 Beat Penn State in Sugar Bowl

Who they’ll beat: Western Michigan (Home), Marshall (Road), Maryland (Road), East Carolina (Home), Syracuse (Road), Mississippi State (Home), Rutgers (Road), Louisville (Home), Cincinnati (Road), Connecticut (Home), Penn State (New Orleans, LA)

Who’ll beat them: South Florida (Road)

When they Pass: While not often his weapon of choice, Pat White does have a quality arm. In the event White does choose to air it out. Senior Darius Reynaud is ready to make plays happen.

When they Run: Anyone whose seen Steve Slaton play need not be reminded of his attributes as a runner. He has the type of breakaway speed that any runs past the linebackers are often gone for six. Freshman Noel Devine is waiting in the wings to replace him.

When their Opponents Run: Keilen Dykes is one of the best defensive tackles in America and he leads a strong line. Freshman J.T. Thomas is expected to bring speed to the linebackers Johnny Holmes and Reed Williams will supply the experience.

When their Opponents Pass: This is West Virginia’s Achilles heel. 109th against the pass last year. Both cornerbacks return but if strides aren’t made between last year and this. That might not mean anything.

When they Kick: Pat McAfee returns for his junior season after a strong sophomore campaign.

When they call Timeout: The Mountaineers feed of Rodriguez’s energy. He’s recruited strong and his turning down of the Alabama job should be a sign that he is committed to West Virginia for the long haul.

Projected Postseason Top 25: #5 Michigan

Do you know the lyrics to the Michigan fight song? No? Well I’ll tell you they aren’t: “Hail to the Victors Valiant, even if they lose to Ohio State”. With Chad Henne, Mike Hart, and a lesser extent Mario Manningham returning, this seems like Blue’s best chance to beat The Ohio State especially in Ann Arbor (that whore). But for some reason Jim Tressel has Lloyd Carr’s number and its hard for me to predict anything different will happen until it does. Wins will be a plenty and because of Big Ten Tiebreaker 6e the Wolverines will finish the season in Pasadena again, but without beating Ohio State, the 2007 season and maybe Lloyd Carr’s career could be incomplete.

Projected Record and Bowl Result: 12-1 Beat California in Rose Bowl

Who they’ll beat: Appalachian State (Home), Oregon (Home), Notre Dame (Home), Penn State (Home), Northwestern (Road), Eastern Michigan (Home), Purdue (Home), Illinois (Road), Minnesota (Home), Michigan State (Road), Wisconsin (Road), California (Pasadena, CA)

Who’ll beat them: Ohio State (Home)

When they Pass: Chad Henne is in his fourth season as a starter. This is a luxury rarely shared by many college football programs this day in age. While Steve Breaston has moved on, Mario Manningham and his big play ability return. If Henne and Manningham are on many of Michigan’s games may not even be that close.

When they Run: Central New York’s Mike Hart is also in his fourth season as a starter. Hart has played with a chip on his shoulder and other injuries at times but is sure handed and determined to lead the Wolverines to wear they want to go.

When their Opponents Run: Not much returns from the nation’s best run defense last year. Although that run defense leaked some big plays to Antonio Pittman, Chris Wells and The Ohio State in their epic game last November. If defensive coordinator Ron English can get similar numbers out of 5 new starters on the front seven than he is every bit the genius experts claim he is.

When their Opponents Pass: Leon Hall isn’t around to shut down one side of the football field. Morgan Trent should continue Michigan’s tradition of strong cornerbacks.

When they Kick: Freshman Bryan Wright takes over for longtime kicker Garret Rivas.

When they call Timeout: Carr has had a remarkable tenure at Michigan but his well documented recent failures against Ohio State are enough to make some fans wonder if it is time to move on. Defensive coordinator Ron English will be a head coach somewhere, but will probably be best served to scout MAC film before he gets a shot at the Big House.

Projected Postseason Top 25: #6 Florida

Nobody outside of Gainesville can say they saw Florida’s thrashing of Ohio State in last year’s BCS National Championship Game coming. So is this the beginning of a new dynastic cycle in Gainesville? With all the hyper surrounding Tim Tebow and the love affair between him and Gator Nation, it is a little lofty to expect him, in his first year as the primary quarterback to take the Gators through the SEC and back to the National Championship. Its also a little lofty to expect LSU to turn the ball over five times again. There are other first time starters besides Teabow so while talent isn’t a question, experience is.

Projected Record and Bowl Result: 12-2 Beat Georgia Tech in Orange Bowl

Who they’ll beat: Western Kentucky (Home), Troy (Home), Tennessee (Home), Mississippi (Road), Auburn (Home), Kentucky (Road), Georgia (Jacksonville, FL), Vanderbilt (Home), South Carolina (Road), Florida Atlantic (Home), Florida State (Home), Georgia Tech (Miami, FL)

Who’ll beat them: LSU (Road), LSU (Atlanta, GA)

When they Pass: Tim Tebow goes from “go in there take the snap and run left” to “lead Coach Meyer’s offense to another SEC championship”. It’s a task which will seem menial in Tebow’s second or third year leading the offense, herculean in the first.

When they Run: In Meyer’s spread option offense, true tailbacks like Ketsahn Moore or utilized less in favor of athletes like Percy Harvin and freshman Cameron Newton who will take over Tebow’s short yardage “run left” duties.

When their Opponents Run: Brandon Spikes replaces Brandon Siler as the teams middle linebacker and rah rah leader. The rest of the front seven is very green.

When their Opponents Pass: The defenses lone returning starter is strong safety Tony Joiner.

When they Kick: Joey Ijjas kicked a 60 yard field goal in Florida’s spring game.

When they call Timeout: Meyer is a visionary and seems to be winning the recruiting war in the state of Florida. For this reason a lot of teams will be “gator bait” for years to come. This is however a rebuilding year, but even in a rebuilding year, Meyer can outcoach anyone and make up for a lack of experience on the field itself.

Projected Postseason Top 25: #7 Georgia Tech

I understand this ranking may shake some heads but looking at the Ramblin’ Wreck’s schedule there isn’t one game in which they’d be a decided underdog. In other words EVERY game is winnable. What isn’t so winnable is overcoming a low preseason ranking and skeptics of the ACC as an elite conference after the performance of its supposed top programs over the past two years. You can decipher from the win/loss breakdown that Georgia Tech is here predicted to go undefeated in the regular season and NOT be in the National Championship game. Could Georgia Tech be the playoff argument of 2007. Looking at the year ahead, its more a possibility than you think.

Projected Record and Bowl Result: 13-1 Lose to #6 in Orange Bowl

Who they’ll beat: Notre Dame (Road), Samford (Home), Boston College (Home), Virginia (Road), Clemson (Home), Maryland (Road), Miami (Road), Army (Home), Virginia Tech (Home), Duke (Road), North Carolina (Home), Georgia (Home)

Who’ll beat them: #6 (Miami, FL)

When they Pass: Reggie Ball won’t be throwing the football. To some that’s reason enough to be excited. Unfortunately Calvin Johnson won’t be catching it either. To some that’s reason enough to underrate Georgia Tech. Taylor Bennett to James Johnson will be a prolific combination replacing them.

When they Run: Tashard Choice might be the best running back most fans have never heard of. He was the ACC’s leading rusher last season and looks to be this season also.

When their Opponents Run: Three of four defensive linemen return as well as two of three linebackers. Georgia Tech was 20th nationally against the run and looks to improve off that ranking.

When their Opponents Pass: Jamal Lewis is first round draft pick at safety. Senior Avery Roberson returns at one of the cornerback slots.
When they Kick: Travis Bell was all ACC two years ago and looks to regain that form this year.

When they call Timeout: Chan Gailey and new offensive coordinator John Bond are hoping to get more creative with the offense this year and get over Ball’s physical limitations as a passer. Jon Tenuta is the defensive coordinator for what is usually one of the ACC’s best defenses.

Projected Postseason Top 25: #8 California

Maybe its because the game’s in Berkeley, maybe its because I am an all out mark for Desean Jackson. Maybe its because USC running the table and going beginning to finish ranked #1 isn’t too exciting for us bloggers but I am calling Cal over USC on November 10. It feels right Cal has beaten USC at home in the past and this offense will be the most fun to watch. It would be fun to see them stomp over Troy in November.

Projected Record and Bowl Result: 11-2 Lose to #5 in Rose Bowl

Who they’ll beat: Tennessee (Home), Colorado State (Road), Louisiana Tech (Home), Arizona (Home), Oregon (Road), Oregon State (Home), Arizona State (Road), Washington State (Home), USC (Home), Washington (Road), Stanford (Road)
Who’ll beat them: UCLA (Road), #5 (Pasadena, CA)

When they Pass: Quarterback Nate Longshore and receivers Desean Jackson, Lavelle Hawkins and Robert Jordan give Cal the best chance of anybody to beat USC when they play in Berkeley November 10. Longshore isn’t mobile and Jackson’s height keeps him from being a surefire top 10 draft pick but these guys are the fastest receivers in the country and could make Trojan DB’s chase.

When they Run: Marshawn Lynch in a Buffalo Bills uniform may make pundits think Cal has a hole here. They don’t Justin Forsett carried the ball almost as much as Lynch last year. He’s small so there’s concern if he can carry a full season’s load but he’s experienced and talented enough to allow Jeff Tedford to run the ball at anytime.

When their Opponents Run: Defensive Rulon Davis returns after missing all of 2006 with a leg injury. Zack Follett leads a talented if not experienced linebacker corps.

When their Opponents Pass: Syd’Quan Thompson and Darian Hagan attempt to replace now Indianapolis Colt Daymeion Hughes. This unit was among the nation’s worst statistically against the pass.

When they Kick: Tom Schneider is a four year starter and made two field goals over 50 yards last season.

When they call Timeout: Tedford is known for his passing offense and this year’s Golden Bears should exemplify this. Cal has been consistently at the top of the Pac 10 for the past few years and Tedford and his offense are the first reason why.

Projected Postseason Top 25: #9 Virginia Tech

Yeah, that’s what feels strange about this year than any other. This is the first year I have to root for Virginia Tech. The school that stole Donovan McNabb’s successor (whose name I wish I could remember, if only ESPN would put him on TV every once in a while) and ran up the score on Syracuse only to bolt for the ACC and seemingly decimate the Big East conference. What happened last April changes all that and the Hokies are not just one of the nation’s easy to root for teams in 2007. They are one of the nation’s best.

Projected Record and Bowl Result: 11-2 Beat Notre Dame in Gator Bowl

Who they’ll beat: East Carolina (Home), Ohio (Home), William & Mary (Home), North Carolina (Home), Clemson (Road), Duke (Road), Boston College (Home), Florida State (Home), Miami (Home), Virginia (Road), Notre Dame (Jacksonville, FL)

Who’ll beat them: LSU (Road), Georgia Tech (Road)

When they Pass: Wide receivers Josh Morgan and Eddie Royal are talented seniors who should make plays for the Hokies, but they won’t unless newcomer quarterback Sean Glennon can get them and not the opposing team’s secondary the ball. Glennon’s development is THE key to Virginia Tech’s success in 2007 as the other pieces are definitely there.

When they Run: Branden Ore is one of the nation’s best and will win games if Frank Beamer is reluctant to put the game plan on Glennon’s arm. Ore isn’t as flashy as he is productive all the middle. This between the tackles clock eater will frustrate opposing teams late in close games.

When their Opponents Run: Five of the front seven return from a suffocating run defense.

When their Opponents Pass: Defensive coordinator Bud Foster’s blitzing style will disrupt quarterbacks with a pass rush that could actually improve the nations best pass defense in 2007. This is what makes the Hokies early game against LSU so interesting and the key game to possible national championship hopes.

When they Kick: Jud Dunleavy is a new starter but a senior. Beamerball is centered around strong special teams and I can only assume this is an area highly addressed in spring practice and training camp.

When they call Timeout: Beamer and Foster are some of the best minds in college football and have been in Blacksburg for a long time. Someone is at least going to give Foster a look at a head coaching job. These two are part of a strong staff that should lead Virginia Tech to an inspirational season.

Projected Postseason Top 25: #10 Oklahoma

To be fair to the Oklahoma Sooners, they were almost in a no-win situation January 1 against Boise State. Nobody outside of the state of Oklahoma wanted them to win that and nobody in the country would’ve been impressed if they did. Still the Sooners would just like to forget the Fiesta Bowl ever happened and they have the sort of talent returning to do just that in 2007. If this team can get over Texas, whom has been an annual road block for them the past two years, it could be “Boise Who?” in Norman again.

Projected Record and Bowl Result: 11-2 Beat Arkansas in Cotton Bowl

Who they’ll beat (or who they’ll have to forfeit retroactively in three years): North Texas (Home), Miami (Home), Utah State (Home), Tulsa (Road), Colorado (Road), Missouri (Home), Iowa State (Road), Texas A&M (Home), Baylor (Home), Oklahoma State (Home)

Who’ll beat them: Texas (Dallas, TX), Texas Tech (Away)

When they Pass: Redshirt Freshman Sam Bradford takes over the quarterback position. As you can imagine this the Sooners’ biggest question mark. Malcolm Kelly has All-America potential. Manuel Johnson and Juaquin Iglesias are other big athletic receivers that will provide Bradford targets to throw to.

When they Run: Allen Patrick made Oklahoma fans feel a lot better about this season when he performed magnificently when Adrian Peterson went down, rushing for a 100 yards 4 times. He’ll be doing just about all the carrying this season unless Demarco Murray continues to emerge.

When their Opponents Run: While the linebackers are shaky, pending the return of middle linebacker Ryan Reynolds (not Van Wilder), Oklahoma continues to breed defensive linemen. Expect the Sooners to be strong against the run in 2007.

When their Opponents Pass: Four starters return to form perhaps the nation’s best secondary. Reggie Smith and Marcus Walker are the corners, Nic Harris and D.J. Wolfe are the safeties.

When they Kick: Garret Harrley is the Big XII’s best.

When they call Timeout: Only someone as charming and successful as Bob Stoops could survive the loss to Boise State last year and not be under some kind of scrutiny. Although the Fiesta Bowl was a microcosm of a few years now of underachievement. The spoiled again Boomer Sooners will be looking for a Big XII title or at least a top 10 finish. If not, some scrutiny could find its way to Bob Stoops.

Projected Postseason Top 25: #11 The Ohio State

I love Ohio, where everyone is Buckeye Born, Buckeye Bred, and when they’re buried they’ll be Buckeye Dead (for some literally). I’ve been there for a football game more than once or twice. My brother went to Ohio State as an undergrad and graduate student and now lives out there working for the university’s physical therapy center. Columbus is the type of place that makes you a college football fan. Seeing how Buckeye football runs that town makes me feel great about not only The Ohio State (I wish the athletic department would use this name in all references to the school, sounds unique and intimidating) but the sport I choose to love. That said Columbus is a little sheepish after their football team, dominant through the regular season was dominated in the BCS National Championship to Florida 41-14. A lot has to go right for the Buckeyes to return to the National Championship game, but one of those, a win over Michigan, has been par for the course as of late.

Projected Record and Bowl Result: 11-2 Lose to #3 in Fiesta Bowl

Who they’ll beat: Youngstown State (Home), Akron (Home), Washington (Road), Northwestern (Home), Minnesota (Road), Purdue (Road), Kent State (Home), Michigan State (Home), Wisconsin (Home), Illinois (Home), Michigan (Road)

Who’ll beat them: Penn State (Road), #3 (Glendale, AZ)

When they Pass: Gone are Troy Smith and “7-11”, Todd Boeckman (who is actually a year older than Troy Smith) takes over what should be a more conservative passing attack. Brian Robiskie, Brian Hartline and Ray Small are more than able to make big plays when needed however.

When they Run: If the Buckeyes are going places in 2007 Chris “Beanie” Wells is taking them there. He will have to be cured of his Freshman fumblitis but Wells is more than capable of taking the lions share of the carries and is more talented than Antonio Pittman ever was. The offensive line will also be a strength as like many things linemen just grow in Ohio.

When their Opponents Run: Vernon Gholston and James Laurinaitis lead one of the most athletic front sevens in the country. Mike Hart might think “there’s nothing special about that defense” (don’t think that’s not up on a bulletin board somewhere) but he might come around by November 18.

When their Opponents Pass: Malcolm Jenkins is among the best the Buckeyes have ever had, its shoring up the rest of the secondary which has been suspect the last few seasons that is the task for Jim Tressel and defensive coordinator Jim Heacock

When they Kick: Aaron Pettrey continues a recent streak of outstanding Buckeye kickers.

When they call Timeout: Jim Tressel and his sweater vest are royalty throughout the state of Ohio, even if he looked outclassed by Urban Meyer last January. There were other disadvantages The Ohio State had in that game besides game planning and Tressel beats Michigan which is almost as important. Tressel holds one of the most prestigious jobs in the entire sport of football and he isn’t letting go of it anytime soon.

Projected Postseason Top 25: #12 Penn State

If you’re lucky enough to have had a grandfather turned 80 you may remember he walked around with a limp, ran to the bathroom irregularly and said things that seem to have come out of nowhere. Well Joe Paterno is now 80, he sustained a broken leg, had to leave the field in the middle of the Ohio State-Penn State game to take care of some “stomach issues” and during this offseason punished his whole team for some off-field indiscretions by having them clean Beaver Stadium after home games. All of these are signs that with a talented team and a favorable schedule there won’t be many opportunities like this year to win one for JoePa.

Projected Record and Bowl Result: 11-2 Lose to #4 in Sugar Bowl

Who they’ll beat: Florida International (Home), Notre Dame (Home), Buffalo (Home), Illinois (Road), Iowa (Home), Wisconsin (Home), Indiana (Road), Ohio State (Home), Purdue (Home), Temple (Road), Michigan State (Road)

Who’ll beat them: Michigan (Road), #4 (New Orleans, LA)

When they Pass: Say what you will about Anthony Morelli’s first three seasons at Happy Valley, the senior has all the weapons he needs to make his final season the one to remember him by. Derrick Williams joins Deon Butler and Jordan Norwood as perhaps the Big Ten’s best receivers.

When they Run: Austin Scott attempts to return from season ending knee and ankle injuries, his ability to produce is critical to Morelli and this offense’s success. Four starters return on the offensive line to help this cause.

When their Opponents Run: Even with retooled defensive line, nobody’s going to get rich running on Linebacker U. Dan Connor will move to the middle to replace Paul Posluszny to make sure of that.

When their Opponents Pass: This is looking a lot better now that 5 of 7 charges against Anthony Scirrotto from an off-campus bar fight have been dropped. Justin King is a shutdown corner.

When they Kick: Kevin Kelly needs to return to his 2005 form if the Nittany Lions are going to win some inevitable close games in the Big Ten.

When they call Timeout: JoePa will be on the sidelines, in the coach’s box, wherever he wants to be for as long as he wants to be there. How long that will be only JoePa knows. He has a former head coach (OC Galen Hall) and a future head coach (DC Tom Bradley) on his staff.

Projected Postseason Top 25: #13 Louisville

One of the more encouraging trends in college football in 2007 is that even without a playoff system, more teams, it seems have realistic National Championship expectations going into the season. While college football does still have its dominant favorites, and we’re getting to them, 13 teams have a visible road to New Orleans and a handful more than that think they do. Louisville is the first of 13 teams I can picture in New Orleans in early 2008 playing for a National Championship. Now holes on the defensive and tough games at places they haven’t played well in the past stand in Brian Brohm and the Cardinals’ way, but Louisville and every team profiled after is a legitimate National Championship contender.

Projected Record and Bowl Result: 11-2 Beat Oregon in Sun Bowl

Who they’ll beat: Murray State (Home), Middle Tennessee (Home), Kentucky (Road), Syracuse (Home), NC State (Road), Utah (Home), Cincinnati (Road), Connecticut (Road), Pittsburgh (Home), Rutgers (Home), Oregon (El Paso, TX)

Who’ll beat them: West Virginia (Road), South Florida (Road)

When they Pass: Brian Brohm is so gifted, conspiracy theorists have Bobby Petrino tanking games just for the right to take him with the #1 overall pick in next year’s NFL draft. Brohm has had shoulder, knee, and thumb injuries during his career at Louisville but if he can stay healthy he could put up Playstation-like numbers throwing to two superb receivers in junior Mario Urrutia and senior Harry Douglas. If the Cardinals passing attack sounds scary, it is.

When they Run: Sophomore Anthony Allen will have to run for touchdowns behind an entirely new right side of the offensive line, the entire left side and center return however. Fullback Brock Bolen is also capable of carrying the football.

When their Opponents Run: The loss of Amobi Okoye will be felt here, without a doubt. All-name Defensive end Peanut Whitehead returns as does Earl Heyman at tackle. Malik Jackson returns at Sam (strong side) linebacker, Preston Smith returns at the Willie (weak side).

When their Opponents Pass: Woodny Turenne, a junior college transfer could start away for a secondary that needs help and playmakers. Free Safety Latarrius Thomas is the only returnee from the nations 80th ranked passing defense.

When they Kick: Art Carmody won the Lou Groza award last year and is considered the nation’s best kicker going into this year. Corey Goettsche starts his second year as the team’s punter.

When they call Timeout: Steve Kragthorpe comes over from a successful tenure at Tulsa to take over for Bobby Petrino. While there isn’t a dropoff in coaching talent, one must worry about how long any transition could take. Defensive coordinator Mike Cassity is a future head coach.

Projected Postseason Top 25: #14 UCLA

For all but a handful of college football teams, turnover is a fact of life. Seniors graduate, Juniors leave early. Every year, almost every program has to replace proven talent with unproven talent and hope for the best out of recruits and former second teamers. UCLA is one of the few programs in the country that does not have this problem. 21 of 22 starters return on the Offense and Defense that beat rival USC last season. Forgive me if that fact doesn’t glare at me and put the Bruins high on this list for this fact alone, for in Westwood, the expectations are even higher.

Projected Record and Bowl Result: 11-2 Beat Missouri in Holiday Bowl

Who they’ll beat: Stanford (Road), BYU (Home), Utah (Road), Washington (Home), Notre Dame (Home), California (Home), Washington State (Road), Arizona (Road), Arizona State (Home), Oregon (Home), Missouri (San Diego, CA)

Who’ll beat them: Oregon State (Road), USC (Road)

When they Pass: Ben Olson is expected to return from his season-ending knee injury last year and win the starting job from Patrick Cowan who filled in adequately when Olson went down. Olson has a strong arm and is more talented but if he starts slow UCLA has an experienced backup to go to. A corps of experienced receivers give reason to believe UCLA will have one of the more exciting offenses in the nation this year.

When they Run: Runningback Chris Markey may hold the key to the Bruins season. He’ll have to run with more purpose than he did in 2006 for the Bruins to have the kind of respectable running attack that will more easily open up the offense for Olson and the receivers.

When their Opponents Run: Six of the front seven return from the 9th ranked run defense in the country.

When their Opponents Pass: It can be argued that UCLA has the best secondary in the Pac 10 also, it definitely has the most experienced. Trey Brown, Rodney Van, Chris Horton and Dennis Keyes are all Seniors.

When they Kick: The irony is the fate of all these seniors could rest on redshirt Freshman kicker Kai Forbath. Forbath is said to have range over 50 yards.

When they call Timeout: Despite the upset of USC, Karl Dorrell is a love him or hate him coach in Los Angeles. The win over USC actually may have saved his job and put a pretty front on a very mediocre 7-6 season. He has hired a new offensive coordinator (Jay Norvell) and a new defensive coordinator (Dewayne Walker) in hopes of converting the doubters


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Projected Postseason Top 25: #15 Rutgers

For the entire 20th century and the first few years of the 21st, Rutgers played the same role to the northeast college football fan. First it provided a safety school for New Jersey’s millions of C students to get a “f*cking edjakashun” at a college with a name which they would never know the source, even years after they graduated (for the record Henry Rutgers was a Colonel in the Revolutionary War). Secondly, it provided Syracuse, Penn State, West Virginia, Boston College, Army, UMass, Binghamton, Vassar a rival to beat on in football year in, year out by large margins as their thousands of in-state recruits looked on. While the first may always be true, Greg Schiano and his axes are chopping wood and making Rutgers a formidable football program, the Scarlet Knights 2006 success could only be a beginning as New Jersey’s best high school football players discover the powerhouse in their own backyard.

Projected Record and Bowl Result: 11-2 Beat Miami in Meineke Car Care Bowl

Who they’ll beat: Buffalo (Home), Navy (Home), Norfolk State (Home), Maryland (Home), Cincinnati (Home), Syracuse (Road), South Florida (Home), Connecticut (Road), Army (Road), Pittsburgh (Home), Miami, FL (Charlotte, NC)

Who’ll beat them: West Virginia (Home), Louisville (Road)

When they Pass: Mike Teel was probably a prodigious quarterback at his high school in New Jersey. At Rutgers, at least in 2006, he was primarily a means by which the ball ended up in the hands of Ray Rice and Brian Leonard. With Leonard gone, Teel will probably be asked to make plays on occasions where defenses focus on Rice. Games against Navy, South Florida and Pittsburgh may hinge on his ability to make such plays.

When they Run: Even without Leonard lead blocking, Rice is fast enough to make plays on the ground. Whether he’ll live up to Heisman-hype remains to be seen. He’ll get plenty of opportunities to do so. Rice carried the ball 335 times and with no Leonard, that number should increase. What will hopefully decrease is the number of times announcers mention that he had agreed to play for Syracuse before Paul Pasqualoni was fired.

When their Opponents Run: Greg Schiano’s 4-3 will be merciless against the run. All-American defensive tackle Eric Foster leads the defensive line and Schiano’s best recruits from 2005 will be stepping in at linebacker.

When their Opponents Pass: Rutgers ranked 6th in the country in pass defense last year and while a lot of credit can be given to the pass rush. Twin brothers Jason and Devin McCourty will start at cornerback.

When they Kick: Jeremy Ito, who is best known for kicking the game winner against Louisville is one of the nation’s best.

When they call Timeout: Greg Schiano was the national Coach of the Year and was immediately Miami’s first choice in its coaching search last year. Wanting to see his reclamation project at Rutgers through, he turned the job down. His merits as a game coach can be debated but his ability to recruit and motivate can not. The sky is the limit for Rutgers as long as Schiano is in New Jersey.

Projected Postseason Top 25: #16 Boise State

To the casual sports fan, Boise State's win over Oklahoma in the Fiesta Bowl was a nice story and an excellent game. To college football fans it meant a new attitude towards the elite teams in non-BCS conferences. To Boise State it meant redemption for football's recent most successful program and some new clout on the national football landscape. Boise State used to play everyday of the week just to get their blue turf on any ESPN channel the tables have turned somewhat on that In terms of the national polls Boise State's eminent run through the WAC will no longer be viewed with skepticism so while this year's team isn't as good and won't be as special as last year's. They should carry more respect through the season and should forge an annual spot in the top 25.

Projected Record and Bowl Result: 12-1 Beat Virginia in MPC Computers Bowl

Who they'll beat: Weber State (Home), Washington (Road), Wyoming (Home), Southern Miss (Home), New Mexico State (Home), Nevada (Home), Louisiana Tech (Road), Fresno State (Road), San Jose State (Home), Utah State (Road), Idaho (Home), Virginia (Boise, ID)

Who'll beat them: Hawaii (Road)

When they Pass: The irony about the 2007 Broncos is that losses of personnel may take away a lot of the wide open passing offense that caught everyone's attention January 1. There is no clear cut replacement yet for Jared Zabransky but senior Taylor Tharp appears to be the favorite. No starters or seniors return at wide receiver either. Whoever leads the offense should get plenty of time to throw the ball from First Round prospect Ryan Clady and four returning starters on the offensive line.

When they Run: Well no one will be asking "Ian who?" this season. The newlywed will be a Heisman candidate all season long and his touchdown numbers will backup his household name. Perhaps Ian and Chrissy Johnson can renew their vows at the Yale Club in New York City.

When their Opponents Run: The Broncos could be vulnerable up the middle replacing starters at defensive tackle and middle linebacker. Defensive coordinator Justin Wilcox emphasizes stopping the run first so whoever does fill in should be ready by the start of the season.

When their Opponents Pass: In the pass happy WAC, the Broncos are primed for success. Defensive ends Nick Schlekeway and Mike T. Williams are the WAC's best and both cornerbacks return

When they Kick: Redshirt Freshman Kyle Brotzman takes over the kicking duties and possibly the punting duties if no clearcut candidate emerges.

When they call Timeout: While Dan Hawkins built this program and the team that beat Oklahoma on January 1, Chris Peterson coached it to its biggest victory. Peterson seems like the type who recognizes the good thing he has in Boise and won't be taking his trick plays to the Pac Ten where there is so less to gain and so more to lose. And now that the Broncos are America's college football team, where else is more prestigious to go?

Projected Postseason Top 25: #17 Tennessee

There are plenty of programs that would love to have the kind of year-in year-out success the Phillip Fulmer and the Tennessee Volunteers have had including the first BCS National Championship following the 1998 season. However 1998 was also the last time Tennessee won the SEC and a pair of 8-10 win seasons, barring the disastrous 2005 5-6 campaign that most at Rocky Top would like to call a Mulligan, have grown weary on Rocky Top. I can’t guarantee that things will be any sweeter in Tennessee this season as tough games in conference and out of conference face the Vols in the first two months of the season. Another season in the middle of the SEC East may get fans thinking Phillip Fulmer’s time as Head coach may be coming to an end.

Projected Record and Bowl Result: 10-3 Beat Iowa in Capital One Bowl

Who they’ll beat: Southern Miss (Home), Arkansas State (Home), Georgia (Home), Mississippi State (Road), South Carolina (Home), Louisiana-Lafayette (Home), Arkansas (Home), Vanderbilt (Home), Kentucky (Road)

Who’ll beat them: California (Road), Florida (Road), Alabama (Road),

When they Pass: Erik Ainge takes the torch from Chris Leak as the player who it seems has been playing college football for ten years even though its only been four. He only wishes his receivers were half as experienced. Robert Meachem and the rest of the receiving corps are gone leaving no receiver with more than 14 receptions in 2006 on the roster.

When they Run: LaMarcus Coker heads a Running Back committee but he is suspended indefinitely (ganja), Arian Foster should get the start in Berkeley when the Volunteers test themselves Week 1.

When their Opponents Run: While the loss of Justin Harrell is lessened in significance because he was rendered ineffective with a torn bicep, this unit ranked 72nd nationally against the run. The linebacker unit is one of the best in the nation and there is depth where there is almost none up front. This is why the scuttlebutt around the Vols program is about making the switch from a 4-3 defense to a 3-4.

When their Opponents Pass: Safety Jonathan Hefney leads a secondary that has loads of potential he’ll be asked to cover a lot of mistakes by first time starters in the brutal September Tennessee has scheduled.

When they Kick: Britton Colquitt is the latest of the first family of Tennessee punting. He’ll also be doing the kicking on field goals and kickoffs. Is there such thing as an “Ironman Kicker”? If not there should be.

When they call Timeout: Fulmer is a fine coach and with the exception of 2005 has kept Tennessee in the upper echelon of college football. But when Florida, South Carolina, and Alabama are going all-in with coaching coups, it gets harder and harder to justify standing pat as 1998 gets farther and farther away. OC David Cutcliffe would seem like a natural heir if Fulmer and Tennessee tire of each other it’s just a matter of how many Conference USA jobs can he turn down.

Projected Postseason Top 25: #18 Wisconsin

This is an underwhelming projection compared to the hype the Badgers are getting this preseason. Allow me to underwhelmed by a team whose replacing its Quarterback and Top 5 pick Left Tackle and whose 12-1 record last year included wins over Bowling Green, Western Illinois, San Diego State, Northwestern, and Buffalo and didn't include a game against Ohio State. Bret Bielema is getting a lot of buzz as preseason prognosticators are a lot like 22 year olds who don't get enough attention from their dads, they're easily seduced by successful men in their 30's.

Projected Record and Bowl Result: 10-3 Beat Alabama in Outback Bowl

Who they'll beat: Washington State (Home), UNLV (Road), The Citadel (Home), Iowa (Home), Michigan State (Home), Illinois (Road), Northern Illinois (Home), Indiana (Home), Minnesota (Home), Alabama (Tampa, FL)

Who'll beat them: Penn State (Road), Ohio State (Road), Michigan (Home)

When they Pass: The favorite to win the Quarterback job is a fifth-year senior named Tyler Donovan. I thought he played in MLS. Expect Tight End Travis Beckum (you see why I'm not high on this team, too many soccer names) will be a go-to receiver for whomever replaces John Stocco.

When they Run: P.J. Hill is the returning Big Ten leading rusher, as he goes into his sophomore year, he carries a lot of the Badgers expectations on his shoulders. Joe Thomas won't be as missed on this part of the offense as the rest of the line does return.

When their Opponents Run: Three of the four starting defensive lineman return but the Badgers will miss Defensive End Joe Monty. This line will have to come up big against Big Ten teams like Michigan and Ohio State who are back to running the ball primarily.

When their Opponents Pass: Both corners from the 2^nd best passing defense in the nation return.

When they Kick: Badger fans will take comfort in having two seniors doing the kicking and punting. Taylor Mehlhaff and Ken DeBauche are the best kicking combo in the Big Ten.

When they call Timeout: Bielema may be the next Bear Bryant, last season isn't enough to crown him so however. If this projection comes true and he beats another SEC team in a bowl game, it will catch the attention of the fickle fanbases there.

Projected Postseason Top 25: #19 Navy

Of the 119 teams in Division 1 Bowl Subdivision college football, Navy perhaps has the least amount of question marks. You need not to have ever stepped on an aircraft carrier or submarine to know what the Midshipmen do on the football field, they run the option and run it well. Navy got 83.2% of its yards on the ground, by far the highest percentage of any team. Also decided for all intents and purposes is where Navy will end its season. Once they become bowl eligible, the Midshipmen will go to San Diego for the Poinsettia Bowl. This fledgling bowl will depend on the Fleets to fill up the seats and hopefully turn a profit.

Projected Record and Bowl Result: 10-3 Beat BYU in Poinsettia Bowl

Who they’ll beat: Temple (Road), Ball State (Home), Duke (Home), Air Force (Home), Wake Forest (Home), Delaware (Home), North Texas (Road), Northern Illinois (Home), Army (Baltimore, MD), BYU (San Diego, CA)

Who’ll beat them: Rutgers (Road), Pittsburgh (Road), Notre Dame (Road)

When they Pass: It’s considered “razzle-dazzle” Quarterback Kaipo-Noa Kaheaku-Enhada (from Hawai’i in case you were wondering) is rarely called to pass and is without leading receiver Jason Tomlinson. Expect Navy to rank 119th in passing offense.

When they Run: Small and shifty describe Reggie Campbell and Zerbin Singleton are the slot backs, Adam Ballard returns at fullback for the closest thing to rugby team in college football. Navy led the nation in rushing offense, but then again they should.



When their Opponents Run: The defense is going to have to return six of its front seven which is why it has almost no chance against the Big East teams on its schedule.

When their Opponents Pass: The secondary is also only returning one starter off a team which ranked 85th against the pass last year.

When they Kick: Punter Greg Veteto will try to improve the punting which was atrocious last year. The option offense and Matt Harmon’s average leg mean few field goals over 40 yards will be attempted this year.

When they call Timeout: Paul Johnson is an oft-mentioned candidate when non-service academy jobs open up. With good reason, as he expects to take Navy to its fifth consecutive bowl appearance.

Projected Postseason Top 25: #20 Nebraska

Bill Callahan finally has Nebraska back to where it wants to be, expecting to challenge for Big XII titles. While Nebraska is a step below the class of the Big XII South, it should be the year in year out favorite to win the Big XII’s North Division (although a trip to Columbia this year may halt those plans). While the option offense and “black shirt” defense may be left in the Osborn era, lofty expectations are back to stay.

Projected Record and Bowl Result: 10-3 Beat Fresno State* in Insight Bowl

Who they’ll beat: Nevada (Home), Wake Forest (Road), Ball State (Home), Iowa State (Home), Oklahoma State (Home), Texas A&M (Home), Kansas (Home), Kansas State (Home), Colorado (Road), Fresno State (Tempe, AZ)

Who’ll beat them: USC (Home), Missouri (Road), Texas (Road)

When they Pass: Arizona State transfer Sam Keller will likely take over for Zac Taylor and lead Bill Callahan’s West Coast Offense. Keller has the size, strength and experience to lead the Cornhuskers to places. To do so, his options will be seniors Terrence Nunn and Maurice Purify.



When they Run: Marlon Lucky and Cody Glenn will try to replace Brandon Jackson’s run production from last year. Durability is an issue with both men.

When their Opponents Run: Linebackers Corey McKeon and Bo Ruud are the leaders of the defense and will have an entirely new defensive line in front of them. The development of the D-Line and their ability to stop the run will be the difference between a good season in Lincoln and a special one.

When their Opponents Pass: Cornerback Zachary Bowman is a former shut-down corner trying to return from an ACL injury, if he is able to return to his 2005 form, this pass defense could be among the best in the Big XII.

When they Kick: Adi Kunalic takes over the field goal kicking duties after Jordan Congdon left the team. Kunalic is a freshman which should make Husker fans nervous in close 4th quarter games.

When they call Timeout: Callahan’s style seems to fit Nebraska football much more than the dysfunctional family known as the Oakland Raiders. I’m sure it is safe to say he doesn’t miss Oakland right now. It’s a little much for him to be as revered as Tom Osborn was in Lincoln but if he can get Nebraska to the next step and perennial BCS appearances, that will certainly help.

*Qualifier to fill slot unable to be filled by Big Ten team