College Football Preview: The Great Heisman Race

Here are my top candiates for the Heisman award:

Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama Junior 2009 Stats: 271 rushes, 1,658 rushing yards, 20 total touchdowns
Ingram, the reigning champ, will be once again in the thick of things. If Alabama wins another championship it will help. But his weakness: splitting carries with budding back Trent Richardson. But over the years former Heisman winners have been in the talk the next season even though they didn't have those caliber seasons. I think that wil happen with Ingram. Finish: 3rd
Kellen Moore, QB, Boise State Junior 2009 Stats: 277 completions, 3,536 passing yards, 39 touchdowns, 3 interceptions
Few quarterbacks are better than Kellen Moore. Moore who might be the biggest reason Boise State is running inside the Top 10 once again, after 13-1 interception rate. His targets are talented in All WAC wide receivers Titus Young and Austin Pettis. But their is always the question when he has so easy of teams to face up against. Finish: 4th
Ryan Mallett, QB, Arkansas Junior 2009 Stats: 225 completions, 3,624 passing yards, 30 touchdowns, 7 interceptions
Mallett has been fantastic ever since transferring from Michigan to an Arkansas team that was in tatters after the losses of Darren McFadden, Felix Jones and Peyton Hillis. Of course it helps that Bobby Petrino's offense is so pass first, pass second, pass third. All his main receivers return. Mallett is ready to get a new trophy at his place. Finish: 1st
Case Keenum, QB, Houston Senior 2009 Stats: 492 completions, 5,671 passing yards, 44 touchdowns, 15 interceptions
You might remember Keenum the superhuman quarterback who led the Houston Cougars to the top of Conference USA including a win over Oklahoma State. Of course it hurts competing for the Heisman on a C-USA team. Anybody could just go for Terrelle Pryor, why not? Have you seen this guys stats? Finish: 2nd
Best Of the Rest
5. Terrelle Pryor
6. Dion Lewis
7. Jake Locker
8. Jacquizz Rodgers
9. Noel Devine
10. Andrew Luck

Week One College Football Big Game Predictions

1*Boise State vs. 11*Virginia Tech
The Broncos offense is loaded with Kellen Moore passing to Austin Pettis and Titus Young while the defensive line is a team strength in Ryan Winterswyk and Billy Winn and will constantly pressure Tyrod Taylor.
7*TCU vs. 17*Oregon State
Both get immediately tested and the TCU defense will try to shut down Jacquizz Rodgers and new quarterback Ryan Katz. Andy Dalton will try to lead the Horned Frogs on offense but will have to ignore the pressure from tackle Stephen Paea.
18*UNC vs. 23*LSU
Maybe the best defense in the nation the Tar Heels with Robert Quinn, Marvin Austin and Bruce Carter will try to shut down Jordan Jefferson. Patrick Peterson will also try to shut down UNC's Greg Little.
20*Utah vs. 22*Pittsburgh
Despite many losses Utah is still one of the best football teams in the Mountain West. In one of their few tests this season Utah will rely heavily on running back Eddie Wide. The same goes for the Panthers and Dion Lewis.
*= My own preseason rankings.

Way Too Early 2011 NFL Mock Draft- 1-21

1. Buffalo Bills- Jake Locker, QB The Number One prospect is an obvoius for a choice that's starting QB is Trent Edwards.
2. Tampa Bay Buccaners- Mark Ingram, RB Former Heisman winner will give the Bucs an option to start right away.
3. St. Louis Rams- A.J. Green, WR Drafting Green will help break in Sam Bradford.
4. Kansas City Chiefs- Patrick Peterson, CB Peterson will give Todd Haley a confident back along side another young threat Brandon Flowers.
5. Oakland Raiders- Julio Jones, WR Will add some speed and will help Jason Campbell in his second season with the Raiders.
6. Cleveland Browns- Marcell Dareus, DT/DE A huge scary tackle/end Dareus will give Cleveland a dangerous linemen.
7. Jacksonville Jaguars- Andrew Luck, QB This could be David Garrard's final season with the Jaguars if they decide he isn't worth the money and Luck is the second best quarterback behind Locker.
8. Carolina Panthers- Jon Baldwin, WR He has a tight end frame and makes plays but may be a little high up on this board.
9. Detroit Lions- Von Miller, LB A very weak linebacker core might not be met in free agency and Miller can also blitz. He had 17 sacks last season for Texas A&M.
10. Denver Broncos- Cameron Heyward, DE Depending on his 2010 Heyward might go lower but the Broncos need an end.
11. Tennessee Titans- Greg Romeus, DE Huge Panther can back plays and the Titans need a threat on the line with no Kyle Vanden Bosch.
12. Arizona Cardinals- Prince Amukamara, CB Other than Dominique Rogers-Cromartie the Cardinals desperately need an opposite cornerback.
13. Seattle Seahawks- Jurrell Casey, DT The Seahawks could draft Robert Quinn but the tackle position is more needed.
14. Philadelphia Eagles- Robert Quinn, DE He's an explosive and confident end who the Eagles should move him to linebacker if they do draft him.
15. New York Giants- Travis Lewis, LB The Sooner makes plays up and down and should improve the weak Giant linebacker core.
16. Cincinnati Bengals- Anthony Costanzo, OT From Boston College Costanzo should improve a weak offensive line.
17. Wasington Redskins- Christian Ponder, QB Sure the Redskins have McNabb right now but he keeps getting older and Rex Grossman? Ponder should beat out Ryan Mallett.
18. Pittsburgh Steelers- Marvin Austin, DT Casey Hampton is getting older and the Steelers can't pass up Austin.
19. Chicago Bears- Joseph Barksdale, OT He's huge and will make the Bears offensive line improve.
20. Atlanta Falcons- Michael Floyd, WR Other than Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez the Falcons have no options for Matt Ryan to pass too.
21. New York Jets- Allen Bailey, LB/DE He makes many plays and should make Rex Ryan's defense even better.

College Football Preview: 5. Texas Longhorns(Updated)

Texas Longhorns, Number Five, Key Loss: LB Sergio Kindle
Vince Young, Colt McCoy. . . Garrett Gilbert? Gilbert will take over as the Longhorns starting quarterback now that Colt McCoy left. Luckily Gilbert has tons of options despite the loss of wide recevier Jordan Shipley, Malcolm Williams and James Kirkendoll. The ground game takes pressure off Gilbert also with Tre Newton, Cody Johnson and Fozzy Whittaker splitting carries. The offensive line may be a question as it returns Michael Huey and Kyle Hix. The defense took a hit when Sergio Kindle left but end Sam Acho had more sacks than Kindle recording 10. Other than the loss of Kindle the linebacker core is okay and the secondary looks strong. Chykie and Curtis Brown return along with Aaron Williams who could be a top draft pick. In the secondary the Longhorns lost kicker Hunter Lawrence who made the infamous field goal in the Big 12 championship to Texas to the BCS and beat down Nebraska.

Heisman Hopeful: Garrett Gilbert
Other Notable Players: Sam Acho
Key Games: Oct. 2 vs. Oklahoma Quick Pick: Young quarterbacks Garrett Gilbert and Landry Jones face off in what could decid the Big 12 championship game. Texas wins.
Oct. 16 vs. Nebraska Quick Pick: Nebraska will be motivated after the close loss and unstoppable Jared Crick will constantly pressure Gilbert. Nebraska wins.

College Football Preview: The Best Of the Rest: UConn Huskies

UConn Huskies, Un Ranked, Key Loss: CB Robert McClain
The Huskies are a good football team. No way to get around it. On offense, quarterback Zach Frazer isn't the best passer in the Big East but with wide receivers Kashif and Isiah Moore who make plays up and down the field. The Huskies don't need to pass too much though because they have backs Anthony Sherman and All Conference Selection Jordan Todman. The junior Todman had five 1,000 yard games in 2009. The offensive line is decent with guard Zach Hurd and Mike Ryan. On defense things look strong too. Three returning starters return in sophomore Jesse Joseph, junior Kendall Reyes and junior Twyon Martin. The linebacker core is loaded with All Big East linebacker Greg Lloyd, strong Scott Lutrus and All Conference Selection Lawrence Wilson. The secondary took hits when Robert McClain left and the Huskies lost Jasper Howard. On special teams, kicker Dave Teggart returns.

Heisman Hopeful: Jordan Todman
Other Notable Players: Lawrence Wilson
Key Games: Oct. 29 vs. West Virginia Quick Pick: In a ground game as Todman goes up against Mountaineer Noel Devine. Both have big games but West Virginia wins.
Nov. 11 vs. Pitt Quick Pick: With the loss of Bill Stull Pitt tries to run more with Dion Lewis but the linebacker core destroys Lewis. UConn wins.

College Football Preview: A Sneak Inside. . . The SEC

SEC Top Teams 1. Alabama 2. Florida 3. Arkansas 4. LSU 5. Georgia 6. Auburn
Top Star's At Each Position
Quarterback's
Greg McElroy, Alabama
Ryan Mallett, Arkansas
John Brantley, Florida
Jordan Jefferson, LSU
Running back's
Mark Ingram, Alabama
Trent Richardson, Alabama
Jeff Demps, Florida
Chris Rainey, Florida
Wide Receiver's
A.J. Green, Georgia
Julio Jones, Alabama
Terrance Toliver, LSU
Joe Adams, Arkansas
Randall Cobb, Kentucky
Offensive Linemen
Mike Pouncey, Florida
Ryan Pugh, Auburn
James Carpenter, Alabama
Clint Boling, Georgia
Defensive Front Seven
Jerrell Powe, Ole Miss
Josh Bynes, Auburn
Chris Marve, Vanderbilt
Justin Houston, Georgia
Dont'a Hightower, Alabama
Defensive Backs
Mark Barron, Alabama
Patrick Peterson, LSU
Ahmad Black, Florida
Inside Look: Coming off a spectacular season many have Alabama as number one because off Mark Ingram and Julio Jones. But many losses on defense will make it harder this season. John Brantley is taking over as the big man in Florida after four spectacular seasons with Tim Tebow. It wouldn't help that leading receivers Riley Cooper and Aaron Hernandez are also gone. Ryan Mallett fits in perfectly with Bobby Petrino's scheme in Arkansas. His options aren't limited either with receivers Greg Childs and Joe Adams and tight end D.J. Williams. LSU may have to kick it up a notch to save Les Miles job. Miles has had a number of disappointing seasons that overshadow his national championship win. A successful season lies in the lap of Jordan Jefferson and how good he will be with no Brandon LaFell. Georgia has talented receiver A.J. Green and end Justin Houston but what is holding up them back is what hurt them last year also: quarterback. Logan Gray is expected to fill in for Joe Cox. Auburn is coming off a brilliant season after a 5-0 start but they lost both quarterback Chris Todd and bruising back Ben Tate. Luckily the O-Line is loaded with two All SEC offensive linemen. The South Carolina Game cox are the SEC's biggest mystery. Beating teams like Ole Miss last season and getting shot down by others as it will be another up and down year. Kentucky lost one of the better secondary machines when Trevard Lindley left but they still have Randall Cobb, a talented wide out who is also a beast on special teams. A disappointment last year Ole Miss is trying to restore it's reputation. Jeremiah Masoli may start this season after being removed from the Oregon team. Jerrell Powe is a monster on the D-Line. Mississippi State has a good team but will have troubles in the tough SEC. The same goes for Vanderbilt.

College Football Preview: 4. Iowa Hawkeyes(Updated)

Iowa Hawkeyes, Number Four, Key Loss: OT Bryan Bulaga
It was an interesting season for Iowa last year. After getting to an undefeated mark the Hawkeyes faltered only to come back and beat Georgia Tech in the Orange Bowl. Quarterback Ricky Stanzi returns who is a strong passer but has too cut down on his high turnover numbers. Luckily for Stanzi he has one of the better Big Ten pass catchers in Derrell Johnson-Koulianos, an All Conference Selection who also helps the Hawkeyes on special teams. The ground game will likely be a trio of three backs in Adam Robinson, Brandon Wegher and Jewel Hampton. The O-Line lost Bulaga but it still returns a few starters. On defense, the line returns four starters including all Big 10 end Adrian Clayborn who uses his footwork too get into backfields. The linebacker core is coming off loses including Pat Angerer. Though the secondary is the strenght of the defense. Amari Speivey is gone but cornerback Shaun Prater returns and All Conference Selections Tyler Sash and Brett Greenwood come back both hard hitters. On special teams, both kicker Daniel Murray and punter Ryan Donahue.

Heisman Hopeful: Ricky Stanzi
Other Notable Players: Tyler Sash
Key Games: Oct. 23 vs. Wisconsin Quick Pick: Can the Hawkeyes secondary shut down underrated QB Scott Tolzien and John Clay? Iowa wins.
Nov. 20 vs. Ohio State Quick Pick: Terrelle Pryor goes up against Sash and the Heisman Hopeful hopes to get some last minute votes.

College Football Preview: A Sneak Inside. . . The Big 12

Big 12 Top Teams 1. Texas 2. Nebraska 3. Oklahoma 4. Missouri 5. Texas Tech 6. Texas A&M
Top Stars At Each Position
Quarterback's
Jerrod Johnson, Texas A&M
Blaine Gabbert, Missouri
Robert Griffin, Baylor
Garrett Gilbert, Texas
Running back's
DeMarco Murray, Oklahoma
Daniel Thomas, Kansas State
Baron Batch, Texas Tech
Roy Helu, Nebraska
Wide Receiver's/Tight End
James Kirkendoll, Texas
Malcolm Williams, Texas
Mike McNeill, Nebraska
Ryan Broyles, Oklahoma
Offensive Linemen
Chris Olson, Texas Tech
Marcel Jones, Nebraska
Defensive Front Seven
Von Miller, Texas A&M
Brian Duncan, Texas Tech
Jeremy Beal, Oklahoma
Jared Crick, Nebraska
Aldon Smith, Missouri
Defensive Back
Aaron Williams, Texas
Prince Amukamara, Nebraska
Quinton Carter, Oklahoma
Trent Hunter, Texas A&M
Inside Look: Even losing Colt McCoy, Sergio Kindle and Jordan Shipley Texas is still the best team in the Big 12 with Garrett Gilbert. Ndamukong Suh left Nebraska but the D-Line is still loaded with Jared Crick and cornerback Prince Amukamara in the secondary. A very tough 2010 will help Oklahoma this season. Landry Jones will be better in his second season as starter passing to Ryan Broyles and back DeMarco Murray. Missouri now has a quarterback in Blaine Gabbert in his second season as starter. Aldon Smith leads the talented defense. Texas Tech had a strong season last year after losing Michael Crabtree. But this season they will have deal with the loss of offensive linemen Brandon Carter. Luckily they still have Taylor Potts and Baron Batch with Brian Duncan, the end/linebacker. Talented quarterback Jerrod Johnson, who can pass and run for good yardage will lead Texas A&M this season. Back Cyrus Gray will take some pressure off Johnson and the defense is led with prospect Von Miller. Kansas State had a decent season last year and back Daniel Thomas is the senior phenom and should help out the Wildcats very much if he continues the season he had last season. Oklahoma State lost a lot of talent in quarterback Zac Robinson, wide receiver Dez Bryant and tackle Russell Okung and will break in a new offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen. Todd Reesing is gone and things do not look bright for the Kansas Jayhawks. Plus they fired off Mark Mangino and replaced him with Turner Gill who will have a tough time working with new sophomore QB Kale Pick. Baylor did lose some talent but talented quarterback Robert Griffin returns after an injury filled season. Colorado will try to have a strong season before their move to the Pac 10. A Cyclone team won a bowl last season and Iowa State tries to move up the Big 12 even more this season.

College Football Preview: 3. Ohio State Buckeyes (Updated)

Ohio State Buckeyes, Number Three, Key Loss: SS Kurt Coleman
There is good reason why fans are excited about Ohio State this season. Junior Terrelle Pryor returns with his second season as starter and is many's preseason favorite for Heisman. His options are good too with returning starters DeVier Posey and Dane Sanzenbacher. The ground game will take some pressure off him. Brandon Saine, an All Conference Selection, will get the job at tailback and can also come out of the backfield to catch passes. Daniel Herron will challenge him for carries with Saine. On the offensive line, All Big Ten guard Justin Boren returns and will keep opposing defenses out of the backfield. On defense, Cameron Heyward leads the line after the Buckeyes lost DE-LB Thaddeus Gibson. Heyward, a senior All Conference Selection, will use his frame to beat O-Lines. The linebacker core is good also. Ross Homan, an All Conference Selection is the main threat in the middle along with small but talented Brian Rolle. In the secondary, the Buckeyes lost Kurt Coleman but still returns three other starters.

Heisman Hopeful: Terrelle Pryor
Other Notable Players: Cameron Heyward
Key Games: Oct. 16 vs. Wisconsin Quick Pick: Can the strong Buckeyes stuff up back John Clay and quarterback Scott Tolzien. Ohio State wins.
Nov. 20 vs. Iowa Quick Pick: The Hawkeyes are great in big games and the strong secondary led by Tyler Sash want to beat up Pryor. Iowa wins.

What are updated posts? Updated posts are more in depth than the posts about top teams that have come up.

College Football Preview: The Best Of the Rest: Georgia Bulldogs

Georgia Bulldogs, Un Ranked, Key Loss: QB Joe Cox
Georgia is one of a number of SEC teams losing key players. Joe Cox isn't necessarily fantastic but was a strong starter. Junior Logan Gray will likely take his place. He has players to pass to. All Conference Selection A.J. Green can beat secondaries with his speed and agility. In the backfield everybody returns with backs Caleb King and Shaun Chapas. The offensive line will help the unexperienced QB's and backs. With All SEC tackle Clint Boling and center Ben Jones opposing defenses will have a tough time getting past this line. On defense, end Justin Houston is the star of the defense breaking through O-Lines. Houston is also an All Conference Selection. Though the rest of the line ia nothing to speak of. The linebacker core returns Daryll Gamble. In the secondary, junior Brandon Boykin returns but again the rest of the backs is pretty weak. On special teams, All SEC kicker Blair Walsh and punter Drew Butler return.

Heisman Hopeful: A.J. Green
Other Notable Players: Justin Houston
Key Games: Oct. 30 vs. Florida Quick Pick: Can the Bulldogs weak defense shut down new quarterback John Brantley? Florida wins.
Nov. 27 vs. Georgia Tech Quick Pick: A huge rivalry game means a ground game battle and both lost big defensive stars. Georgia Tech wins.

College Football Preview: A Sneak Inside. . . The Big 10

Big 10 Top Teams 1. Ohio State 2. Iowa 3. Wisconsin 4. Penn State 5. Michigan 6. Michigan State
Top Stars At Each Position
Quarterback's
Ricky Stanzi, Iowa
Terrelle Pryor, Ohio State
Scott Tolzien, Wisconsin
Adam Webber, Minnesota
Running back's
Evan Royster, Penn State
Mikel LeShoure, Illinois
Adam Robinson, Iowa
John Clay, Wisconsin
Wide Receiver's/Tight End
Derrell Johnson-Koulianos
DeVier Posey, Ohio State
Keith Smith, Purdue
Tandon Doss, Indiana
Offensive Linemen
Gabe Carimi, Wisconsin
John Moffitt, Wisconsin
Stefen Wisiniewski, Penn State
Defensive Front Seven
Greg Jones, Michigan State
Ryan Kerrigan, Purdue
Adrian Clayborn, Iowa
J.J. Watt, Wisconsin
Cameron Heyward
Defensive Back
Tyler Sash, Iowa
Drew Astorino, Penn State
Jay Valai, Wisconsin
Inside Look: After throwing Oregon around the field Ohio State and Terrelle Pryor are ready for big years. The defense is loaded with Cameron Heyward and Ross Homan. With a great offense and defense Iowa will be tough to beat. If Ricky Stanzi cuts down on his mistakes the Hawkeyes will challenge the Buckeyes. With bruiser John Clay Wisconsin is looking like the team a few years ago. Quarterback Scott Tolzien is one of the most underrated players in the Big 10. Penn State said good bye to Daryll Clark and Sean Lee but running back Evan Royster returns along with center Stefen Wisiniewski. Rich Rodriguez and Michigan still has to decide whether to start Tate Forcier or speedy Denard Robinson. The defense lost end Brandon Graham but it should be fine. With a strong defense Michigan State is a contender again in the Big 10. Greg Jones can make plays up and down and true freshman William Gholston could make plays. Purdue is my dark horse pick in the Big 10. Robert Mavre, who tranferred from Miami will start at QB passing to guys like Keith Smith and the defense has end Ryan Kerrigan. Pat Fitzgerald's Northwestern squad lost Mike Kafka but can contend if the defense holds up. Indiana has had years of losing and will have a tough time changing that this season. Tandon Doss, a skilled wideout, can also be a star in special teams returning punts and kicks. MinnesotaIllionis struggled last eyar because of the problems quarterback Isiah 'Juice' Williams. Luckily the Illini have Mikel LeShoure, who had a big game in last season's final game against Fresno State.

College Football Preview: A Sneak Inside. . . The Big East

Big East Top Teams 1. Cincinnati 2. Pittsburgh 3. West Virginia 4. Rutgers

Top Stars At Each Position
Quarterback's
Tom Savage, Rutgers
B.J. Daniels, South Florida
Zach Collaros, Cincinnati
Tino Sunseri, Pittsburgh
Running back's
Dion Lewis, Pittsburgh
Victor Anderson, Louisville
Noel Devine, West Virginia
Jordan Todman, UConn
Wide Receiver's/Tight Ends
Jonathan Baldwin, Pittsburgh
Armon Binns, Cincinnati
Brian Guidugli, Cincinnati
Offensive Linemen
Alex Hoffman, Cincinnati
Jason Kelce, Cincinnati
Zach Hurd, UConn
Jason Pinkston, Pittsburgh
Defensive Front Seven
Greg Romeus, Pittsburgh
Lawrence Wilson, UConn
J.K. Schaffer, Cincinnati
Greg Lloyd, UConn
J.T. Thomas, West Virginia
Defensive Backs
Dom DeCicco, Pittsburgh
Brandon Hogan, West Virginia
Robert Sands, West Virginia
Inside Look: Tony Pike and Mardy Gilyard left Cincinnati but new coach Butch Jones can easily replace them with Zach Collaros and Armon Binns. Tino Sunseri will likely take over as quarterback in Pittsburgh but with Dion Lewis the ground game is the main focus. Luckily for West Virginia they have game changer Noel Devine on the ground game now especially with the loss of quarterback Jarrett Brown. Rutgers returns quarterback Tom Savage, who was a big part of Rutgers bowl game win over UCF last year. UConn will play harder with the lost memory of cornerback Jasper Howard in their hearts and luckily have running back Jordan Todman who had five 100+ rushing yard games last season. Longtime QB Matt Grothe is gone after leading South Florida to a contender in the Big East. B.J. Daniels will take over full time after playing in for the injured Grothe last season. Louisville hasn't had a successful season since the times of Brian Brohm and are hoping back Victor Anderson can change that who struggled last year rushing for 473 yards and having various injuries. Syracuse is in a tough spot. The only bright spot was in wide receiver Mike Williams who was dismissed from the team last season and went into the draft. The Orange need back Delone Carter to have any chance in surviving the big East.

College Football Preview: The Best Of the Rest: Stanford Cardinal

Stanford Cardinal, Un Ranked, Key Loss: RB Toby Gerhart
Most of the time teams who loss Heisman runners ups to the NFL draft are left in a mess. Not Stanford. The Cardinal said good bye to Toby Gerhart because they knew they could switch to the passing game with sophomore Andrew Luck. Coach Jim Harbaugh raved about Luck for good reason as along with spectacular passing numbers Luck can bring down the ball and run. Replacing Gerhart as starter will most likely be Tyler Gaffney but Harbaugh will use a three running back style along with sophomore Stepfan Taylor and senior Jeremy Stewart. Full back Owen Marecic is a true talent who can also linebacker. The O-Line is decent with center Chase Beeler, an All Conference Selection. On defense, the line returns three starters in Thomas Keiser, Sione Fua and Chase Thomas. The linebacker core lost some of its luster but returns sophomore Shayne Skov, who was a five star 2009 recruit and played well including 15 tackles in the Sun Bowl vs. Oklahoma. If the secondary plays well the Cardinal will be just fine on defense.

Heisman Hopeful: Andrew Luck
Other Notable Player: Owen Marecic
Key Games: Oct. 9 vs. USC Quick Pick: Sophomores Matt Barkley and Andrew Luck go up against each other but Luck will have a better day. Stanford escapes.
Oct. 30 vs. Washington Quick Pick: Washington could be a surprise contender as the Cardinal defense looks to shut down Jake Locker. Washington wins.

College Football Preview: 2. Alabama Crimson Tide (Updated)

Alabama Crimson Tide, Number Two, Key Loss: LB Rolando McClain
Running back Mark Ingram is the best running back in the game. After the Heisman win it's obvious. But he may have to split carries now with Trent Richardson who could be an above average starter for any other team than Alabama. Greg McElroy is a fantastic quarterback and should be even better in his second season as starter passing to Julio Jones(an All Conference Selection) and returning starter Marquis Maze. The O-Line is pretty strong with All SEC tackle James Carpenter, a senior. On defense, the Crimson Tide lost many big players. Just too name a few: Terrence Cody, Rolando McClain, Javier Arenas and Kareem Jackson. Luckily they have talented linebacker Dont'a Hightower who's big frame helps him hit opposing running backs hard. Mark Barron also returns in the secondary as the strong safety after an All Conference Selection. On special teams, the Crimson Tide lost punter P.J. Fitzgerald and they have no kicker to speak of.

Heisman Hopeful: Mark Ingram
Other Notable Players: Greg McElroy
Key Games: Oct. 2 vs. Florida Quick Pick: Of course Tebow is gone but Florida is still a top ten game and alway is a good game. Alabama wins.
Sept. 11 vs. Penn State Quick Pick: No Daryll Clark or Sean Lee but Penn State will give 'Bama a non conference challenge. Alabama wins.

College Football Preview: The Best Of the Rest: Arizona Wildcats

Arizona Wildcats, Un Ranked, Key Loss: TE Rob Gronkowski
The Wildcats had a surprisingly strong season last year which ended with a blowout loss to the Nebraska Cornhuskers. Quarterback Nick Foles returns with more confidence after a 2,486 passing yards and 19 touchdown season. Back Nic Grigsby returns and should take some of the pressure off Foles. Most of Foles options are back expect for fantastic tight end Rob Gronkowski, including David Douglas and Dealashaun Dean. The O-Line is strong with All Conference Selection center Colin Baxter. On defense, things look bad on the line. Luckily seniors Brooks Reed and Ricky Elmore. The lienbacker core lost many starters making it look weak. Luckily for the Wildcats they have a strong secondary with cornerback Trevin Wade (All Pac 10 Selection). Also Robert Golden returns at the strong safety position. On special teams, both punter Keenyn Crier and kicker Alex Zendejas return.

Heisman Hopeful: Nick Foles
Other Notable Players: Nic Grigsby
Key Games: October 23 vs. Washington Quick Pick: In this Pac 10 war Jake Locker goes up against Nick Foles. Locker has big game and Washington wins.
Oct. 30 vs. UCLA Quick Pick: Bruins Akeem Ayers, linebacker and Rahim Moore, safety look to annoy Foles all game long.

College Football Preview: A Sneak Inside. . . The Pac 10

Pac 10 Top Teams 1. USC 2. Oregon State 3. Oregon 4. Stanford 5. Arizona

Top Stars At Each Position
Quarterback's
Jake Locker, Washington
Andrew Luck, Stanford
Nick Foles, Arizona
Matt Barkley, USC
Running back's
Jacquizz Rodgers, Oregon State
LaMichael James, Oregon
Shane Vereen, California
Tyler Gaffney, Stanford
Wide Receiver's/Tight Ends
James Rodgers, Oregon State
Jeff Maehl, Oregon
Jermaine Kearse, Washington
Offensive Linemen
Colin Baxter, Arizona
Chase Beeler, Stanford
Defensive Front Seven
Shayne Skov, Stanford
Vontaze Burfict, Arizona State
Akeem Ayers, UCLA
Kenny Rowe, Oregon
Jurrell Casey, USC
Stephen Paea, Oregon State
Defensive Backs
Rahim Moore, UCLA
John Boyett, Oregon
Trevin Wade, Arizona
Inside Look: Matt Barkley should improve and help USC in his second season. The defensive line is also strong with Jurrell Casey and Armond Armstead. The Rodgers brothers are killers for teams facing Oregon State. Jacquizz is one of the better running backs in the Pac 10 same goes for receiver James. Jeremiah Masoli is gone but Oregon is still a Pac 10 contender. LaMichael James will be the full starter with Blount gone and should have a big season. Arizona dream season last year will be followed by another strong year with Nick Foles and Nic Grigsby. After losing Toby Gerhart the Stanford squad will be leaning one talented quarterback Andrew Luck but back Tyler Gaffney is decent. With prospect Jake Locker Washington is finally a contender. UCLA knows their top 20 times are over but their defense is strong with fantastic Rahim Moore and Akeem Ayers. California lost Jahvid Best but still has Shane Vereen who is one of the better backs on the West Coast. Arizona State will finally have a cornerback hoping on Omar Bolden who's finally healthy. Washington State will have to spend another year in the cellar of the Pac 10.

College Football Preview: 1. Boise State Broncos (Updated)

Boise State Broncos, Number One, Key Loss: CB Kyle Wilson
Last season the Broncos beat down another BCS buster in TCU. It is why I have them at number one over the reigning champs Alabama. Kellen Moore returns after after an amazing sophomore season and has many options with Titus Young(an All WAC Selection) and Austin Pettis, another All Conference Selection. The ground game will take pressure off Moore with the talented back Jeremy Avery. Nate Potter is a talented offensive tackle, an All Conference Selection. The defense returns all but one of their starters but unfortunately it's a good one (Kyle Wilson). On the line, things look good with end Ryan Winterswyk and tackle Billy Winn. Even with the loss of Wilson things look bright too in the secondary. Brandyn Thompson returns after a season opposite Wilson. Safeties Jeron Johnson, an All Conference Selection, returns with George Iloka. This is the season Boise finally busts the BCS and wins the BCS championship.

Heisman Hopeful: Kellen Moore
Other Notable Players: Ryan Wintersywk

College Football Preview: A Sneak Inside. . . The ACC

ACC Top Teams 1. Virginia Tech 2. Miami 3. Georgia Tech 4. UNC 5. Florida State 6. Boston College
Top Stars At Each Position
Quarterback's
Tyrod Taylor, Virginia Tech
Jacory Harris, Miami
Josh Nesbitt, Georgia Tech
Russell Wilson, NC State
Running back's
Ryan Williams, Virginia Tech
Montel Harris, Boston College
Anthony Allen, Georgia Tech
Darren Evans, Virginia Tech
Wide Receivers/Tight Ends
Donovan Varner, Duke
Greg Little, UNC
Leonard Hankerson, Miami
O-Linemen
Rodney Hudson, Florida State
Anthony Castonzo, Boston College
Sean Bedford, Georgia Tech
Front Seven Defense(Lineman and Linebackers)
Brad Jefferson, Georgia Tech
Allen Bailey, Miami
Marvin Austin, UNC
Robert Quinn, UNC
Defensive Backs
Ras-I Dowling, Virginia
DeAndre McDaniel, Clemson
Rashad Carmichael, Virginia Tech
Inside Look: A talented ground game should help Virginia Tech this season. Ryan Williams is one of the better offensive players in the ACC and Darren Evans returns healthy after tearing his ACL last season. Jacory Harris may not be a Heisman canidate in the preseason but he should lead Miami to a strong bowl game. The loss of Jonathan Dywer will not hurt Paul Johnson's Georgia Tech squad was the option will be alive with Josh Nesbitt, Anthony Allen and Roddy Jones. With a lethal defense UNC should be a contender with tackle Marvin Austin, end Robert Quinn and linebacker Bruce Carter. No Bowden for Florida State. But they do retrun Christian Ponder. Boston College had a strong last season and star Montel Harris will get some help from offensive tackle Anthony Costanzo. C.J. Spiller is gone for Clemson but they avoided a dilema when quaretrback Kyle Parker decided to play college football instead of signing with the Colorado Rockies. Russell Wilson could make NC State history this year. So the Wolfpack's days of Mario Williams are done but they'll settle with Wilson leading the team to a possible bowl game berth. Virginia will have problems in the tough ACC unless Ras-I Dowling has an unhuman season in the secondary. Duke has a fantastic wide receiver in Donovan Varner but needs a quarterback to get the ball to him. Luckily for Maryland Bruce Campbell was their only big loss. Riley Skinner started 49 of the 51 games for Wake Forest but they will have to settle with Skylar Jones who was a wide receiver last season.

College Football Preview: 25. Florida State Seminoles

Florida State Seminoles, Number Twenty Five, Key Loss: CB Patrick Robinson
It's like Peyton Manning leaving Indianapolis. Or Joe Paterno leaving Penn State. The Seminoles must say good bye to Bobby Bowden their long time coach. Unfortunately for the Seminoles Bowden wasn't the only key loss as Florida State lost cornerback Patrick Robinson and linebacker Dekoda Watson. Luckily they return quarterback Christian Ponder and running back Lonnie Pryor. The offensive line will help both Ponder and Pryor as the Seminoles return All ACC Selection guard Rodney Hudson. They also return Andrew Datko, Ryan McMahon, David Spurlock and Zebrie Sanders. On defense, the loss of Dekoda Watson and Robinson does sting but Kendall Smith or one of the other returning linebckers should replace Watson as the big playmaker in the middle. Same goes for Ochuko Jenije in the secondary hoping to replace Patrick Robinson as the playmaker.

Heisman Hoepful: Christian Ponder
Other Notable Players: Rodney Hudson
Key Games: Sept. 11 vs. Oklahoma Quick Pick: Landry Jones goes up against Ponder but Jones has more options giving the Sooners the win.Oklahoma wins.
Nov. 27 vs. Florida Quick Pick: Always a good game and should be even better with both teams suffering losses. John Brantley has a big game and Florida wins.

College Football Preview: 24. West Virginia Mountaineers

West Virginia Mountaineers, Number Twenty Four, Key Loss: QB Jarrett Brown
When you think of elite running backs in college football currently who do you think of? Mark Ingram? Maybe a Jacquizz Rodgers or LaMichael James type of guy? Add Mountaineer Noel Devine. Devine, an All Conference Selection, can dominate defenses with his mix of speed and power. The quarterback situation is a problem for West Virginia. Geno Smith looks to be the starter with Jarrett Brown and the offense will have to adjust to him after Pat White and Brown, two strong scramblers compared to Smith who is a pocket QB. The rest of the offense returns but isn't too much to speak of. On defense, coach Bill Stewart has true talent in linebacker J.T. Thomas who wrecks havoc on opposing lines. Nose tackle Chris Nield isn't too be took lightly either. The secondary is very strong with senior Brandon Hogan(an All Conference Selection) and junior Keith Tandy. Junior safety Robert Sands can stuff up passing lanes. On special teams, Tyler Bittancourt is a fantastic kicker but the punter situation is nothing to speak of.

Heisman Hopeful: Noel Devine
Other Notable Players: J.T. Thomas
Key Games: Nov. 13 vs. Cincinnati Quick Pick: A great game means a challenge for Cincy's Zach Collaros against a fantasitc West Virginia defense. Mountaineers win.
Nov. 26 vs. Pittsburgh Quick Pick: The backyard brawl should be a ground war as both lost quartebacks and Noel Devine goes up against Dion Lewis.

College Football Preview: 23. LSU Tigers

LSU Tigers, Number Twenty Three, Key Loss: WR Brandon LaFell
The Tigers have a rich history of winning in the nation's toughest conference. That should continue again this season. Jordan Jefferson returns but will decline due to the loss of fantastic wide out Brandon LaFell. Luckily for Les Miles he has a talented backup in Jarrett Lee. Jefferson does have someone to pass to. Terrance Toliver returns and could be a talented long ball threat. The offensvie line returns many but it is still not a strength. On defense the Tigers have had tons of talented lineman. Just too name a few: Glenn Dorsey and Tyson Jackson. This time the defensive star is in the secondary with Patrick Peterson, an All Conference Selection. On the line, things are not looking up. Only senior Lazarius Levingston returns. Kelvin Sheppard is one of the few stars in the linebacker core. Meanwhile, in the secondary even with Peterson the Tigers need another talented back after they lost safety Chad Jones. On special teams, both punter Derek Helton and kicker Josh Jasper return.

Heisman Hopeful: Terrance Toliver
Other Notable Players: Patrick Peterson
Key Games: Sept. 4 vs. UNC Quick Pick: Both teams have a decent quarerback and a talnted wide receiver. But the UNC D is much better than the Tigers. UNC wins.
Oct. 9 vs. Florida Quick Pick: Patrick Peterson picks off John Brantley twice and the Tigers escape. LSU wins.

College Football Preview: 22. Pittsburgh Panthers

Pittsburgh Panthers, Number Twenty-Two, Key Loss: QB Bill Stull
The Panthers have one of the brightest stars in college football with running back Dion Lewis who broke out in his freshman season. Lewis will take some pressure off expected new quarterback Tino Sunseri. Luckily, if Sunseri does start he has All Conference Selection Jonathan Baldwin to pass to. Lewis will be helped out by offensive tackle All Conference Selection Jason Pinkston. On defense coach Dave Wannestedt has a strong core of guys. Greg Romeus returns and is one of the better ends in the Big East. Jabaal Sheard a senior who returns will line up opposite against him. The linebackers return 2 starters, Greg Williams and Max Gruder, but the secondary needs some help. Both cornerbacks are playing their first year as starter. Luckily the Panthers have Dom DeCicco, a senior All Conference Selection. On speacial teams, kicker and punter Dan Hutchins, is an All Conference Selection at the kicker position.

Heisman Hopeful: Dion Lewis
Other Notable Players: Jonathan Baldwin
Key Games: Sept. 25 vs. Miami(Florida) Quick Pick: Greg Romeus will try to pressure Jacory Harris into making bad decisions while the 'Canes defense does the same to Dion Lewis. Miami wins.
October 9 vs. Notre Dame Quick Pick: Always a good game. Both teams lost their star quarterbacks. This game might just be decided by defense and Pitt is better at it. Pitt wins.
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College Football Preview: 21. Oregon Ducks

Oregon Ducks, Number Twenty One, Key Loss: QB Jeremiah Masoli
Sure Jeremiah Masoli is done in an Oregon uniform. And the Ducks lost running back LeGarrette Blount and tight end Ed Dickson. But they do return 20 starters. At the quarterback position the Ducks hope that senior Nate Costa will replace Masoli. LaMichael James played great filling in for LeGarrette Blount last season. Costa's options are very limited though. Ed Dickson was more of a wide receiver than a tight end. This leaves the job to Davis Paulson at end. On defense the Ducks are reeling from the loss of talented safety T.J. Ward. But they do have some defensive stars including defensive end Kenny Rowe, a senior. The linebackers are pretty loaded. Casey Matthews returns after snatching up an All Conference Selection, with Eddie Pleasent and Spencer Paysinger. In the secondary sophomore John Boyett will replace T.J. Ward. On speacial teams the Ducks lost kicker Morgan Flint but returns punter Jackson Rice.

Heisman Hopeful:LaMichael James
Other Notable Players: Casey Matthews
Key Games: Oct. 30 vs. USC Quick Pick: USC may not be the star of the college football world this season but they will challenge Oregon. USC wins.
Nov. 27 vs. Oregon State Quick Pick: The Ducks defense will try to stuff up the Rodgers brothers- James and Jacquizz.

College Football Preview: 20. Utah Utes

Utah Utes, Number Twenty, Key Loss: LB Stevenson Slyvester
Few have been as good the last few years than the Utah Utes. Jordan Wynn returns this season after replacing Brian Johnson last season. The ground game is strong with All Conference Selection Eddie Wide. Wynn needs some options to pass to though. Luckily he has time to make decisions with his offensive line as talented as it is. Guard Caleb Schlauderaff is an All Conference Selection, and so is center Zane Taylor, both are seniors. On defense, the Utes lost alot. Including, linebacker Stevenson Slyvester and end Koa Misi. The Utes have five returning starters on defense including 3 on the line, including Derrick Shelby, Dave Kruger and Sealver Siliga. The secondary will get help from the D-Line. The cornerbacks don't need it though as they return Brandon Burton and Lamar Chapman. On special teams the Utes retrun kicker Joe Phillips and punter Sean Sellwood.

Heisman Hopeful:Eddie Wide
Other Notable Players: Jordan Wynn
Key Games: Nov. 13 vs. Notre Dame Quick Pick: The Fighting Irish lost Jimmy Clausen and Golden Tate but they will still be a big challenge. Utah wins.
TBA vs. TCU Quick Pick: TCU will give any team a challenge. Jordan Wynn goes up against Andy Dalton. TCU escapes.