This thread will be my new NCAA Football simulation dynasty, using NCAA Football 08 on the PS2.
I will be following the dynasty in depth and reporting on the results here. I will give in-depth preseason previews of each team, by conference, and will report on each week's results, injuries and statistical leaders. I will highlight the Game of the Week with a preview and a full game story and box score.
I have spent nearly a month doing research and trying to create the most realistic rosters possible, based on actual real-life performance and NFL draft history. All players and coaches are named and should reflect their real-life counterparts.
I will be controlling 12 teams --- USC, Florida, Texas, Oklahoma, Ohio State, Michigan, LSU, Virginia Tech, West Virginia, Alabama, Notre Dame and Florida State --- just to control the discipline on these perennial powers. I will not be playing the games or doing any recruiting (I will let the CPU recruit) but I will adjust depth charts, players redshirting and players to be cut during the offseason.
In conjuction with this dynasty, I will be saving and using the draft classes in my Madden NFL simulation franchise. I will keep track of player stats as much as possible to create a very in-depth draft preview for that thread.
USC, Michigan predicted to contend for BCS National Title in 2007-08 NCAA Football News
Despite coming off their first National Championship in nearly 10 years, the Florida Gators do not find themselves at the top of the first Coaches Poll to begin the 2007-08 season. That honor instead goes to the USC Trojans, coming off an impressive 32-18 Rose Bowl victory over Michigan and bringing in a solid recruit class.
USC garnered 33 first-place votes to claim the top spot in the Preseason Coaches Poll, and will be paced this season by senior QB John David Booty and a ferocious defense. Michigan, despite losing the Trojans last season, begin the year at #2 with a solid squad returning. The Wolverines will be led by a slew of great seniors, including RB Mike Hart and QB Chad Henne.
Rounding out the Top 5 is LSU, Florida and Texas. LSU finished 11-2 last season and crushed Notre Dame 41-14 in the Sugar Bowl, and will be led by a tough, experienced defense. Florida is the defending champions, but lost a lot of seniors. Still, the Gators have a ton of talented youngsters, including highly-touted sophomore QB Tim Tebow, and should be in the running for the title. The Longhorns fell behind rival Oklahoma in the Big 12 standings and squeaked past Iowa 26-24 in the Alamo Bowl, but they bring back a talented squad that should be one of the best teams in the Big 12 and the nation this season.
The complete Preseason Top 25 is below.
Preseason Top 25 Coaches Poll
1) USC (33) 2) Michigan (24) 3) LSU (1) 4) Florida (2) 5) Texas (1) 6) West Virginia 7) Wisconsin 8) Oklahoma 9) Virginia Tech 10) Arkansas 11) Louisville 12) Ohio State 13) Auburn 14) Nebraska 15) Tennessee 16) California 17) Penn State 18) Georgia 19) UCLA 20) Rutgers 21) Florida State 22) TCU 23) Boise State 24) Texas A&M 25) Boston College[Reply]
kblu54 03:42 PM 10-08-2009
McFadden looks to run away with Heisman NCAA Football News
Arkansas's junior RB Darren McFadden will open the 2007-08 season as the #1 player to watch. McFadden helped lead the Razorbacks to a 10-4 mark and the SEC West title last season, but should be one of the most dangerous players on the field this season.
Joining McFadden on the Preseason Heisman Watch is USC senior QB John David Booty, Louisville senior QB Brian Brohm, senior QB Colt Brennan of Hawaii and West Virginia junior RB Steve Slaton.
Preseason Heisman Watch
1) Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas
2) John David Booty, QB, USC
3) Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville
4) Colt Brennan, QB, Hawaii
5) Steve Slaton, RB, West Virginia
Surprisingly, Booty was excluded from the Preseason All-American lists. The good news for McFadden, Brohm, Brennan and Slaton is they were not. McFadden was actually a 1st Team pick as a returner, while Slaton occupies a 2nd Team slot. Brohm and Brennan grabbed the 1st and 2nd Team QB selections, respectively.
As for the rest of the nation's expected All-Americans, the list is as follows.
Preseason 1st Team All-American (Offense)
QB: Brian Brohm, Louisville RB: Mike Hart, Michigan FB: Owen Schmitt, West Virginia WR: Mario Manningham, Michigan WR: Marcus Monk, Arkansas WR: Limas Sweed, Texas TE: Martin Rucker, Missouri C: Jeff Byers, USC OG: Hercules Satele, Hawaii OG: Will Arnold, LSU OT: Barry Richardson, Clemson OT: Gosder Cherilus, Boston College
Preseason 1st Team All-American (Defense)
DE: Derrick Harvey, Florida DE: Tim Jamison, Michigan DT: Sedrick Ellis, USC DT: Glenn Dorsey, LSU MLB: Vince Hall, Virginia Tech MLB: Robert James, Arizona State OLB: Xavier Adibi, Virginia Tech CB: Aqib Talib, Kansas CB: Antoine Cason, Arizona FS: Thomas DeCoud, California SS: Tom Zbikowski, Notre Dame
Preseason 1st Team All-American (Special Teams)
K: Art Carmody, Louisville P: Andrew Larson, California RET: Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas
Preseason 2nd Team All-American (Offense)
QB: Colt Brennan, Hawaii RB: Ray Rice, Rutgers RB: Steve Slaton, West Virginia FB: Mike Cox, Georgia Tech WR: D.J. Hall, Alabama WR: Lavelle Hawkins, California TE: Fred Davis, USC C: Antoine Caldwell, Alabama OG: Tad Miller, Boise State OG: Shannon Tevaga, UCLA OT: Sam Baker, USC OT: Eric Young, Tennessee
Preseason 2nd Team All-American (Defense)
DE: Wallace Gilberry, Alabama DE: Quentin Groves, Auburn DT: Frank Okam, Texas DT: Andre Fluellen, Florida State MLB: Rey Maualuga, USC OLB: Dan Connor, Penn State OLB: Steve Octavien, Nebraska CB: DeJuan Tribble, Boston College CB: Justin King, Penn State FS: Roger Williams, Florida State SS: Kenny Phillips, Miami
Preseason 2nd Team All-American (Special Teams)
K: Garrett Hartley, Oklahoma P: Michael Hughes, San Diego State RET: DeSean Jackson, WR, California
[Reply]
kblu54 04:50 PM 10-08-2009
Florida State looking to outduel Ryan, Boston College for ACC Atlantic crown ACC News
The Florida State Seminoles will look to rebound from a disappointing 7-6 season last year by attempting to outlast Boston College senior QB Matt Ryan and the Eagles for the ACC Atlantic Division title this season. The Seminoles, who open the season ranked #21, bring a very tough defense to the table and should be the team to beat.
Let's take a look at the Atlantic Division squads, in order by predicted finish.
1) Florida State Seminoles (#21)
Last Season Record: 7-6 (3-5 ACC) Postseason Result: Won 44-27 over UCLA in Emerald Bowl
Impact Players
OLB Geno Hayes [JR]
SS Myron Rolle [SO]
RB Antone Smith [JR]
Offense (B+)
The Seminoles have a very intriguing offense, one that has a lot of potential stars but also hasn't produced much. The offensive line is experienced and talented and RB Smith seems to be a true playmaker, but the success of FSU's offense really lies on the shoulders of junior QB Drew Weatherford. Weatherford, who barely edged out dual-threat QB Xavier Lee for the job, needs to find his receivers to give FSU a shot.
Defense (A-)
On paper, the FSU defense looks scary. On the field, they need to show it. OLB Hayes, SS Rolle and plenty of other playmakers need to step it up and give their offense more chances. If the Seminole defense can play tough, it will take a lot of the pressure off of the offense.
Special Teams (A+)
Senior kicker Gary Cismesia is one of the nation's top kickers and should give FSU an automatic 3 points whenever he's needed.
Overall (A)
Florida State looks good on paper but they really need to perform well game in and game out for them to contend for the ACC title.
2) Boston College Eagles (#25)
Last Season Record: 10-3 (5-3 ACC) Postseason Result: Won 25-24 over Navy in Meineke Car Care Bowl
Impact Players
QB Matt Ryan [SR]
OLB Brian Toal [SR]
CB DeJuan Tribble [SR]
Offense (B+)
Senior QB Matt Ryan leads a very experienced offense, which should put up a ton of points. Ryan is not supported by the best of athletes, but his play alone gives Boston College a shot. Senior OT Gosder Cherilus should protect his backside well to help make that happen.
Defense (B)
The offense should be able to light up the scoreboard, but the real question for the Eagles is whether their defense can stop their opponents from doing the same. OLB Toal and CB Tribble are two exceptional players, but the rest of the defense looks iffy. The defensive line, paced by DTs B.J. Raji and Ron Brace, will be solid but the secondary looks weak beyond Tribble.
Special Teams (B)
Kicker Steve Aponavicius and punter Johnny Ayers will man the kicking duties.
Overall (B)
Ryan will be one of the nation's top QBs, but the Eagle defense needs to step up and support him in order for them to contend.
3) Wake Forest Demon Deacons (#33)
Last Season Record: 11-3 (6-2 ACC) *ACC Champions* Postseason Result: Lost 24-13 to Louisville in Orange Bowl
Offense (B)
Senior RB Andrews and talented sophomore QB Riley Skinner lead a good offensive group. The Demon Deacons rode their spread attack all the way to their 1st ACC title last season, and will be looking to repeat that feat again.
Defense (B)
The Wake Forest defense isn't bad by any means but they really need to shut teams down if they want to contend for the ACC title again. CB Smith leads a solid secondary and junior OLB Aaron Curry highlights a surprisingly-good group of linebackers.
Special Teams (A+)
Junior Sam Swank is arguably the nation's top specialist and will handle both the kicking and punting duties this fall.
Overall (B+)
It will be another interesting ride for Wake Forest, but they seem to have the pieces in place to repeat.
4) Clemson Tigers (#38)
Last Season Record: 8-5 (5-3 ACC) Postseason Result: Lost 28-20 to Kentucky in Music City Bowl
Impact Players
OLB Tramaine Billie [SR]
RB James Davis [JR]
FS Chris Clemons [JR]
Offense (B)
Life for junior QB Cullen Harper should be easy, as he only needs to get the ball into the hands of his explosive RBs and WRs. Junior RB James Davis and sensational sophomores RB C.J. Spiller and WR Jacoby Ford give Clemson an exciting offense, and getting big holes from senior OT Barry Richardson will help.
Defense (B+)
The talent and future NFL prospects for Clemson's defense rival only that of Florida State's, but they need to mesh well as an entire squad for the Tigers to make some noise. OLB Billie and FS Clemons are supported by DEs Phillip Merling and Ricky Sapp, OLB Nick Watkins and SS Michael Hamlin.
Special Teams (A-)
Freshman kicker Richard Jackson and junior punter Jimmy Maners produce a respectable special teams unit.
Overall (B+)
Health is really the only concern for Clemson, which needs to keep their stars injury-free and off the bench for the Tigers to contend.
5) Maryland Terrapins (#40)
Last Season Record: 9-4 (5-3 ACC) Postseason Result: Won 24-7 over Purdue in Champs Sports Bowl
Impact Players
MLB Erin Henderson [JR]
SS Christian Varner [SR]
RB Keon Lattimore [SR]
Offense (B)
Senior RBs Lattimore and Lance Ball need to run well to keep Maryland in the title race, as they probably won'y get much help from sophomore QB Chris Turner. Sophomore WR Darrius Heyward-Bey is a player to keep an eye on though, and the Terrapins' offensive line is very good.
Defense (B+)
MLB Henderson and SS Varner are very good players but will need help from their teammates, especially on the defensive line, for Maryland to stay in every contest.
Special Teams (B+)
Nothing special here, but junior kicker Obi Egekeze is solid.
Overall (B)
Maryland will need to go old school, running the ball and playing defense, to contend this season.
6) N.C. State (#55)
Last Season Record: 3-9 (2-6 ACC) Postseason Result: DNQ
Impact Players
DT DeMario Pressley [SR]
RB Andre Brown [JR]
WR Darrell Blackman [SR]
Offense (B-)
It will be an uphill battle for the N.C. State offense this season as they attempt to return to a bowl game after going 3-9 last season. RB Brown will be their top player, but will receive most of the focus from opposing defenses due to a lack of playmaker support. Sophomore QB Harrison Beck will try to limit his mistakes but will need to stay upright behind a shaky offensive line.
Defense (B-)
If opposing teams can get past DT Pressley, sophomore DE Willie Young and the Wolfpack's tough defensive line, then N.C. State will be in for a world of hurt. Up front looks solid, but the backers and secondary looks like a crying girl --- weak and vulnerable.
Special Teams (B)
An ok tandem of specialists will kick, but WR Blackman will be a force in the return game.
Overall (B)
The Wolfpack need to get back above .500 in order to make a bowl game, but it will be hard to do with this squad in a very tough division.
[Reply]
cubsfan203 04:55 PM 10-08-2009
Oh dang, you're really going all out. Nice to see this get under way, great start.
[Reply]
kblu54 05:41 PM 10-08-2009
Virginia Tech looking for more than just ACC title ACC News
Georgia Tech won the ACC's Coast Division crown last season, but it is Virginia Tech that claims the top spot in the preseason predictions. The Hokies, who enter the year ranked #9, have a very tough defense and should hold off other contenders like Georgia Tech and Miami to capture the division title and possibly the ACC crown.
Let's take a look at the Coastal Division squads.
1) Virginia Tech Hokies (#9)
Last Season Record: 10-3 (6-2 ACC) Postseason Result: Lost 31-24 to Georgia in Chick-fil-A Bowl
Offense (B+)
The Hokies simply need to pound the ball on the ground with RB Ore behind a very good offensive line. Junior QB Sean Glennon and dual-threat QB Tyrod Taylor give Virginia Tech some flexibility at the QB spot, but they really need to focus on running the ball well to win.
Defense (A-)
This Hokie defense is tough from front to back and has several playmakers like OLB Adibi and MLB Hall. Senior DE Chris Ellis heads up a tough defensive line, while CB Brandon Flowers captains a good secondary.
Special Teams (A)
Senior kicker Jared Develli and talented sophomore punter Brent Bowden are the Hokies' specialists.
Overall (A)
Virginia Tech is clearly the ACC's most talented squad coming into the season, but they need to show it.
2) Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (#27)
Last Season Record: 9-5 (7-1) Postseason Result: Lost 38-35 to West Virginia in Gator Bowl
Impact Players
OLB Philip Wheeler [SR]
FS Djay Jones [SR]
RB Tashard Choice [SR]
Offense (B)
The success of Georgia Tech's offense depends on the arm of junior QB Taylor Bennett and the legs of RB Choice. If the Yellow Jackets can be balanced and productive, they will contend for the division crown again.
Defense (B+)
The Yellow Jacket defense is just plain good, with just enough experience and young talent to allow them to dominate this year and beyond. OLB Wheeler and FS Jones are only two of several top defensive starters. The defensive line, led by senior DEs Darrell Robertson and Adamm Oliver, is very good.
Special Teams (A+)
Senior punter Durant Brooks is probably the nation's top punter and will be an invaluable asset to the defense.
Overall (A-)
Only the Hokies truly stand in the way of Georgia Tech's quest for a 2nd-straight Coastal Division crown.
3) Miami Hurricanes (#30)
Last Season Record: 7-6 (3-5) Postseason Result: Won 21-20 over Nevada in MPC Computers Bowl
Impact Players
SS Kenny Phillips [JR]
DE Calais Campbell [JR]
RB Javarris James [SO]
Offense (B+)
The Miami offense is young but the talent they have is unbelievable. They should be solid this season, but the years to come look even more promising. RB James is a top-notch ballcarrier and will give senior QB Kyle Wright another weapon.
Defense (A-)
How good is this Miami defense? Well when you're top two players are only juniors, you know you have something special. SS Phillips and DE Campbell headline a fast Hurricane that has talent at every spot. There are very few seniors on the defense, so this good squad should be even better next season.
Special Teams (B+)
True freshman RB Graig Cooper will get his licks in the return game.
Overall (B+)
Miami has all the pieces in place to make a run for the ACC title... next season. This year, they will be good but probably will fall short.
4) Virginia Cavaliers (#57)
Last Season Record: 5-7 (4-4 ACC) Postseason Result: DNQ
Impact Players
DE Chris Long [SR]
OLB Jermaine Dias [SR]
RB Cedric Peerman [JR]
Offense (C+)
The Virginia offensive line is arguably the best squad in the ACC, but unfortunately there is very few athletes to utilize it. RB Peerman is good, but sophomore QB Jameel Sewell is shaky and has very few receivers to throw to.
Defense (B-)
DE Long is one of the best defensive players in the nation, but he does not have much support. OLBs Dias and Clint Sintim are solid, but the rest of the defense does not look promising.
Special Teams (D-)
Two seniors will perform the kicking duties.
Overall (C-)
When it comes down to it, Virginia just doesn't have enough to contend. They may, depending on the play of their stars, qualify for a bowl.
5) North Carolina Tar Heels (#70)
Last Season Record: 3-9 (2-6 ACC) Postseason Result: DNQ
Impact Players
DE Hilee Taylor [SR]
WR Hakeem Nicks [SO]
OLB Durell Mapp [SR]
Offense (C+)
The Tar Heels have several good receivers, like Hicks and Brandon Tate, and a good QB in redshirt freshman T.J. Yates, but they will have no run game and have a very shaky o-line. Maybe they should just throw it every down?
Defense (B-)
The key for North Carolina will be their defensive line. DE Taylor and DT Kentwan Balmer are exceptional talents and should be the focus for opposing o-lines, but the rest of their defense really needs to improve. The secondary, for example, is very iffy.
Special Teams (A+)
Senior kicker Connor Barth is the top-rated placekicker on Mel Kiper Jr.'s draft board.
Overall (B)
The Tar Heels have a bunch of NFL prospects, but it appears that there are too many non-NFL prospects on the squad as well. They may make a bowl... barely.
6) Duke Blue Devils (#109)
Last Season Record: 0-12 (0-8 ACC) Postseason Result: DNQ
Impact Players
DE Patrick Bailey [SR]
RB Re'Quan Boyette [JR]
FS Chris Davis [SR]
Offense (B-)
Duke may not have won a game last season, but coming into this year their offense doesn't look that bad. Sophomore QB Thaddeus Lewis is an underrated talent, and RB Boyette will be a key player. The offensive line doesn't look half-bad either, but regardless Duke will still not be a contender.
Defense (C+)
Duke's defense doesn't look that bad either, especially their defensive line. Overall as a unit though, they still will not be able to stop their divisional rivals. DE Bailey and FS Davis are solid, but sophomore DT Vince Oghobaase is a player to watch.
Special Teams (B)
A decent group of specialists will give Duke a boost.
Overall (C+)
Duke can't go winless again... can they? They will probably squeeze out a few non-conference wins, but that's it.
[Reply]
kblu54 03:09 AM 10-10-2009
Michigan looking for return trip to Rose Bowl, possibly BCS title Big Ten News
The Michigan Wolverines enter the season as one of the nation's top squads, ranked #2 in the Preseason Coaches Poll and the unanimous pick to win the Big Ten. The Wolverines have a great group of players, but they will need to hold off legit contenders like #7 Wisconsin, #17 Penn State and rival #12 Ohio State.
Let's take a look at the 2007-08 Big Ten teams, in order by predicted finish.
1) Michigan Wolverines (#2)
Last Season Record: 11-2 (7-1 Big Ten) Postseason Result: Lost 32-18 to USC in Rose Bowl
Impact Players
RB Mike Hart [SR]
OLB Shawn Crable [SR]
WR Mario Manningham [JR]
Offense (A+)
The Michigan offense looks to be just unstoppable. They seem to have it all --- top-notch QB (senior Chad Henne), a dominant tailback (Hart), a go-to receiver (Manningham) and probably the best left tackle in the nation (senior Jake Long). And that's only 4 of 11 starters! Michigan's offense is good. Period.
Defense (A-)
The Michigan defense is also solid, with Crable, Preseason 1st Team All-American senior DE Tim Jamison and a hellacious secondary leading the way. They do have a few weak spots (MLB, freshman starter at DT) but for the most part they look pretty solid.
Special Teams (A-)
Sophomore Zoltan Mesko is one of the nation's best punters --- and he's only a sophomore.
Overall (A+)
You don't have to look far to find one of the nation's best teams --- just look for the maize and blue. This Michigan team is very good.
2) Wisconsin Badgers (#7)
Last Season Record: 12-1 (7-1) Postseason Result: Won 17-14 over Arkansas in Capital One Bowl
Impact Players
CB Jack Ikegwuonu [JR]
RB P.J. Hill [SO]
OLB Jonathan Casillas [JR]
Offense (B+)
The Badgers have a solid offensive line and a bruising RB in Hill, but their success and shot at the Big Ten title rests on the shoulders of senior QB Tyler Donovan. Wisconsin will run the ball a ton, but it will be the results of the passing game that will determine how far they go. Donovan should have faith that he has junior TE Travis Beckum, one of the nation's best, to throw to.
Defense (B)
The Badgers defense is solid but in reality they seem really young. Second-year head coach Bret Bielema, a defensive-minded playcaller, boosted the Badgers' to their first 12-win season last year with a tenacious defensive strategy. Wisconsin will need to get their young guys (3 sophomore starters) in shape to compete. CB Ikegwuonu leads a solid secondary, while OLB Casillas and junior DE Matt Shaughnessy will keep the Badgers tough up front.
Special Teams (A+)
Seniors Taylor Mehlhaff (kicker) and Ken DeBauche (punter) form one of the best kicking units in the nation.
Overall (A-)
The Badgers will face a tough road, but if they can get good play from their youngsters and their passing game, they will be a serious threat to Michigan.
3) Ohio State Buckeyes (#12)
Last Season Record: 12-1 (8-0) *Big Ten Champions* Postseason Result: Lost 41-14 to Florida in BCS National Championship
Impact Players
MLB James Laurinaitis [JR]
CB Malcolm Jenkins [JR]
RB Chris "Beanie" Wells [SO]
Offense (B+)
Ohio State and Heisman Trophy winner QB Troy Smith failed to bring home the BCS National Title last season, but the Buckeyes will get another shot this year with junior QB Todd Boeckman at the helm. Boeckman isn't a dual-threat guy like Smith was, but he is a solid pocket passer and will be a great complement to RB Wells, who has already established himself as one of the nation's best tailbacks. The Buckeyes also boast a tough and experienced offensive line.
Defense (A-)
The offense should have no worries when they are off the field, because Ohio State's defense is just plain awesome. Tons of excellent starters fill up the D, giving them a balanced look. And look at this intriguing fact --- the Buckeyes only have 1 senior starter! MLB Laurinaitis, the son of a former pro wrestler, and CB Jenkins are two of the best at their positions.
Special Teams (A+)
Sophomore kicker Aaron Pettrey will really be a useful tool for the Buckeye offense.
Overall (A)
Ohio State has all the tools to challenge both Wisconsin and hated rival Michigan. Whether they will or not needs to be seen.
4) Penn State Nittany Lions (#17)
Last Season Record: 9-4 (5-3) Postseason Result: Won 20-10 over Tennessee in Outback Bowl
Impact Players
OLB Dan Connor [SR]
CB Justin King [JR]
WR Derrick Williams [JR]
Offense (B+)
Penn State seems really balanced on offense, with both a solid run game and a respectable passing attack. Their main weapons will be their great collection of WRs, led by Williams. Senior QB Anthony Morelli should have no trouble finding a playmaker when he throws it, but he needs to stay upright behind a possibly inexperienced offensive line.
Defense (B+)
Linebacker U still lives up to its reputation, as the Nittany Lions boast several top LB starters like Connor. The defensive line is talented but young, and the secondary has solid corners but some iffy safeties. As a group they will be solid but may not be able to stop the offenses of the Big Ten's top contenders.
Special Teams (A-)
Not a bad group of kickers, and WR Williams will also be an exciting return man.
Overall (B+)
Penn State should be a solid player in the Big Ten and this prediction to finish 4th seems justified. They will definately be a contender next season.
5) Iowa Hawkeyes (#41)
Last Season Record: 6-7 (2-6) Postseason Result: Lost 26-24 to Texas in Alamo Bowl
Impact Players
DT Mitch King [JR]
MLB Mike Klinkenborg [SR]
RB Albert Young [SR]
Offense (B+)
The Hawkeyes will be an interesting team to watch this season, as their offense has a ton of talent but also a ton of inexperience. They will be paced by their 2 senior RBs in Young and Damian Sims, but the rest of the offense is young. The hard knocks they take this year will go a long way in the future.
Defense (B+)
Who better to support a young offense than a very experienced and ferocious front seven? Four out of Iowa's front 7 starters are seniors with a ton of talent. Their cornerbacks also look good, but two freshman starters at the safety spots could be a concern. Still, Klinkenborg and senior DEs Bryan Mattison and Kenny Iwebema may take the pressure off by keeping the opposing QB on his back.
Special Teams (B+)
This rating for the Iowa kickers is way too high --- it must be for their return game or kickoff coverage or something.
Overall (B)
Iowa is very similar to Penn State and Ohio State in experience and talent. They need to really step it up and pull some upsets along the way to break into the conference's top tier.
6) Purdue Boilermakers (#45)
Last Season Record: 8-6 (5-3) Postseason Result: Lost 24-7 to Maryland in Champs Sports Bowl
Impact Players
WR Dorien Bryant [SR]
SS Torri Williams [JR]
RB Kory Sheets [JR]
Offense (A-)
Purdue is kind of a sleeper pick in the Big Ten this year mainly due to their outstanding offense. Junior QB Curtis Painter leads an explosive passing attack, in which he will hit talented receivers like WR Bryant and senior TE Dustin Keller. He should stay off his back thanks to the protection of junior OT Sean Sester and senior OG Jordan Grimes, and RB Sheets provides a much-needed running boost.
Defense (C+)
The reason why Purdue isn't a very popular pick in the Big Ten is due to their mediocre defense. SS Williams is good, but the defense in front of him looks weak.
Special Teams (A-)
Senior punter Jared Armstrong is solid, but sophomore kicker Chris Summers needs a lot of work.
Overall (B)
Unless Purdue can consistently win 60-50 shootouts, they won't break into the top half of the conference.
7) Minnesota Gophers (#50)
Last Season Record: 6-7 (3-5) Postseason Result: Lost 44-41 to Texas Tech in Insight Bowl
Offense (B)
The mixture of good and mediocre talent does not spell success for the Gophers. RB Pinnix and WR Wheelwright are good playmakers, but the others around them are shaky at best. Minnesota will also turn to redshirt freshman Adam Weber at QB, which may or may not be a good choice. Senior center Tony Brinkhaus is the lone bright spot on a shaky o-line.
Defense (B-)
The Minnesota defense doesn't look that bad but it pales in comparison to the Big Ten's heavyweights. FS Barber will do his best in centerfield to prevent the deep ball, but in a conference that focuses on the run game, his efforts might be in vain.
Special Teams (B+)
Nothing too special to write home about here.
Overall (B)
Another bowl game is a definite possibility for the Gophers. A Big Ten championship? No freaking way.
8) Illinois Fighting Illini (#54)
Last Season Record: 2-10 (1-7) Postseason Result: DNQ
Offense (B)
The Illinois backfield looks to be exciting, as dual-threat QB Williams and speedy RB Mendenhall give them two home run hitters. The offensive line doesn't look bad and the receivers are pretty solid, so they may produce a ton of points.
Defense (B-)
The defense seems okay, but really they probably won't get enough stops to put them into the top half of the conference. OLB Leman is a beast and they seem to have a ton of experience, but how far will it take them? The corners seem young, but sophomore Vontae Davis is an NFL prospect already.
Special Teams (B+)
Kickers kick, punters punt. What more do you want?
Overall (B)
Illinois should do much better than last year's poor 2-10 finish. But then again, 5 wins is much better than 2, but it still doesn't send you to a bowl.
9) Michigan State Spartans (#59)
Last Season Record: 4-8 (1-7) Postseason Result: DNQ
Offense (B)
Just run the ball! Michigan State boasts 3 solid tailbacks, with Ringer clearly being the best. But still, the Spartans will need to throw the ball and junior QB Brian Hoyers needs to find a beast WR in junior Devin Thomas or solid senior TE Kellen Davis for Michigan State to compete with the big boys.
Defense (B-)
The Michigan State defense will shut down crappy non-conference teams. They will not do anything like that to their conference rivals though. Warrick and Adams are good but there are too many question marks to handle.
Special Teams (A)
Sophomore Brett Swenson is one of the nation's best and he's still got 2 years left.
Overall (B)
A shaky defense means trouble and a possible one-dimensional offense means no bowl game. But still, they have enough talent to make it happen.
10) Indiana Hooisers (#65)
Last Season Record: 5-7 (3-5) Postseason Result: DNQ
Impact Players
WR James Hardy [JR]
OLB Geno Johnson [JR]
RB Marcus Thigpen [JR]
Offense (B-)
Thigpen and Hardy are exciting talents that could combine for 30 TDs this season --- if they had a good o-line and QB. Unfortunately, they have about half of that. Senior QB Blake Powers could lose his job to upstart dual-threat sophomore Kellen Lewis if he doesn't perform.
Defense (C+)
Some decent experience and some good building blocks for the future, but not nearly enough to make any noise in this conference. OLB Johnson will need a lot of help if Indiana wants to get back to 5 wins.
Special Teams (B)
Thigpen is a return game monster. He might get more return TDs than rushing TDs.
Overall (B-)
A team can only go as far as their weakest player. According to Indiana's squad, they won't be going very far.
11) Northwestern Wildcats (#66)
Last Season Record: 4-8 (2-6) Postseason Result: DNQ
Impact Players
RB Tyrell Sutton [JR]
MLB Adam Kadela [SR]
SS Brendan Smith [JR]
Offense (B)
Northwestern seems to have a good balance but there are some question marks on the o-line, except at center where senior Trevor Rees rules. RBs Sutton and senior Brandon Roberson will keep defenses honest, while junior QB C.J. Bacher will try to capitalize off the run game with some deep throws.
Defense (B)
In all honesty, this Northwestern defense looks better than most. They aren't the most spectacular or flashy group, but as a whole they look pretty good. Kadela may be their top playmaker and leader, but several other stars like seniors FS Reggie McPherson and DE David Ngene has NFL scouts licking their chops.
Special Teams (B)
If I could pronounce their kickers' names I would write them here. Unfortunately, that is not the case.
Overall (B)
This is one of the few predictions that might not come true. The Wildcats have a pretty solid squad but will have to play well against the lower-tier conference rivals in order to break past the .500 mark.
[Reply]
kblu54 12:09 PM 10-10-2009
Nebraska looking to return to Big 12 glory Big 12 News
Entering this season, Nebraska had not won a Big 12 title in years. Last season, they won the North Division but fell 21-7 to Oklahoma in the conference championship game. This year, the Huskers bring a talented squad that may challenge either Texas or Oklahoma in the Big 12's final contest.
Beyond Nebraska, the Big 12 North looks interesting. Several teams have promising players but most of them are built to win next season. If any of them can step up and knock off the Huskers, it will be a sight to see.
Let's review the Big 12 North squads, in order of predicted finish.
1) Nebraska Cornhuskers (#14)
Last Season Record: 9-5 (6-2 Big 12) Postseason Result: Lost 17-14 to Auburn in AT&T Cotton Bowl
Impact Players
OLB Steve Octavien [SR]
CB Zack Bowman [SR]
QB Sam Keller [SR]
Offense (B+)
Coach Bill Callahan has built up a pretty solid West Coast-style offense at Nebraska, which should be very balanced. QB Keller is a great signal-caller, and he has plenty of targets to throw to and two good tailbacks in senior Kenny Wilson and junior Marlon Lucky. Not only that, Nebraska has a pretty good o-line too.
Defense (A-)
The Nebraska defense is very tough and very experienced, with senior starters at 7 out of the 11 spots. OLB Octavien, CB Bowman and other seniors like OLB Bo Ruud and SS Tierre Green give Nebraska an intimidating look. A young player to watch is sophomore DT Ndamukong Suh.
Special Teams (A-)
Juniors occupy the kicking spots this season.
Overall (A-)
Nebraska is the clear favorite in the North and has plenty of talent to back it up. Can they challenge the South winner?
2) Missouri Tigers (#37)
Last Season Record: 8-5 (4-4) Postseason Result: Lost 39-38 to Oregon State in Brut Sun Bowl
Impact Players
QB Chase Daniel [JR]
DT Lorenzo Williams [SR]
RB Marcus Woods [SR]
Offense (A-)
Missouri's offense could challenge anyone in the conference. QB Daniel is a top-notch leader and has plenty of playmakers to connect with. Senior tailbacks Woods and Tony Temple will give Missouri a balanced attack, while redshirt freshman WR Jeremy Maclin will be exciting as both a receiver and a returner. The Tigers have an excellent offensive line, and two of the nation's top TEs in senior Martin Rucker and junior Chase Coffman.
Defense (B-)
The issue with Missouri is of course their defense. Their offense can score 40+ per game, but can their defense stop opposing teams from doing the same? DT Williams bolsters a young but talented defensive line, while sophomore OLB Sean Weatherspoon is a talented guy to watch. The secondary is very young and might be exploited by the conference's high-passing attacks.
Special Teams (A+)
Junior kicker Jeff Wolfert and senior punter Adam Crossett give Missouri one less thing to worry about.
Overall (B+)
Missouri has a ton of talent but not much experience. They could challenge Nebraska and some of the South squads, except it probably won't be this year.
3) Kansas State Wildcats (#46)
Last Season Record: 7-6 (4-4) Postseason Result: Lost 37-10 to Rutgers in Texas Bowl
Impact Players
SS Marcus Watts [JR]
OLB Ian Campbell [JR]
RB James Johnson [SR]
Offense (B-)
Kansas State has a solid offense that could compete... in the WAC. Sophomore QB Josh Freeman and RB Johnson are two good players, but the receivers and o-line seem to fall short. Senior WR Jordy Nelson seems to be helpful though.
Defense (B-)
If you came here looking for a tough defensive squad, then you must have taken a wrong turn. Kansas State has a few solid guys like OLB Campbell and SS Watts, but the rest of the defense has a ton of weak spots. They have a bunch of senior starters, but they aren't even close to the level of their opponents.
Special Teams (A-)
Senior punter Tim Reyer seems competent.
Overall (B)
This might be Kansas State's only year to really have good success. They don't have much for youngsters save for sophomore QB Freeman, but he can't do it all himself.
4) Colorado Buffaloes (#58)
Last Season Record: 2-10 (2-6) Postseason Result: DNQ
Impact Players
CB Terrence Wheatley [SR]
OLB Brad Jones [JR]
RB Hugh Charles [SR]
Offense (B-)
I don't know what to say about the Colorado offense except that it's not that good. They may be able to rack up the points against lesser non-conference opponents, but their Big 12 rivals won't allow that. RB Charles and the great tailbacks behind him give Colorado a boost, but the passing game and offensive line don't look exciting.
Defense (B)
Colorado's starting cornerbacks and OLBs look great, but the rest of the defense doesn't match. The defensive line looks average, the safeties aren't that good and they have a shaky sophomore starting at MLB. Overall, too many weak spots to overcome.
Special Teams (A)
Sophomore punter Matthew DiLallo is very solid.
Overall (B)
Colorado just looks too average to compete with the big boys. A bowl game is not out of the question though.
5) Kansas Jayhawks (#60)
Last Season Record: 6-6 (3-5) Postseason Result: DNQ
Impact Players
CB Aqib Talib [JR]
TE Derek Fine [SR]
DT James McClinton [SR]
Offense (B-)
The Kansas offense has a ton of young talent but not enough to make them a contender this season. Sophomore QB Todd Reesing snuck up and won the job this season, but he will need help from his receivers to keep the Jayhawks competitive. The running game might be a weak spot.
Defense (B-)
CB Talib is one of the nation's top corners and was voted a Preseason 1st Team All-American. Why can't the rest of the defense be as good as him? Kansas looks average for the rest of the defense but does have some exciting youngsters like sophomore SS Darrell Stuckey.
Special Teams (B+)
A pair of seniors will handle the kicking duties.
Overall (B)
I like what Coach Mark Mangino is building out of a perennially lousy program. A bowl game seems to be in the cards, but anything more seems unlikely.
6) Iowa State Cyclones (#83)
Last Season Record: 4-8 (1-7) Postseason Result: DNQ
Offense (B-)
Seniors must lead the way for Iowa State this year, and they have two solid ones in QB Meyer and WR Blythe. Unfortunately, it appears that they are all that the Cyclones have. The running game looks weak, and the o-line is terrible.
Defense (B-)
The front seven? Not bad. The secondary? Very bad. Iowa State should be able to stay tough against the run but will probably get carved up by the Big 12's awesome collection of QBs. OLB Bowen is a very good senior leader.
Special Teams (B+)
Sophomore punter Mike Brandtner is not bad at all. In fact, he's pretty good.
Overall (B-)
Except the cellar-dweller Cyclones to get buried below their Big 12 rivals again.
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