College Football Preview 2012-2013: 1. LSU Tigers

1. LSU Tigers Returning Starters: 11 Returning Star: DB Tyrann Mathieu Key Loss: WR Rueben Randle
Players to Watch:
QB Zach Mettenberger- Junior
TB Spencer Ware- Junior
DE Sam Montgomery- Junior
DB Tyrann Mathieu- Junior
S Eric Reid- Junior
No team losing half their team has this much talent coming back. Definitely the most dominant regular season team in the nation last year, it all fell apart in the championship against Alabama. They couldn't score for anything and their big defensive stars couldn't stop the Tide's offense. Now, the championship wouldn't slide out of the Tigers hands. Gone are Jordan Jefferson and Jarrett Lee but Les Miles is hoping he found a gem in Zach Mettenberger. As him name states the QB isn't flashy but the transfer is effective and will get the job done. Its the backfield that will be the offense. Back is All-SEC tailback Spencer Ware along with three other backs: Kenny Hilliard, Michael Ford and Alfred Blue. Ware will obviously get the most carries and will give opposing defensive coordinators headaches. Rueben Randle, the Tigers' top receiver last year was actually a big loss. He leaves behind a weak receiving core for Mettenberger to work with. The Tigers offensive line is a definite strength. Tackles Chris Faulk and Alex Hurst will keep tough SEC pass rushers in check while underrated center P.J. Lonergan snaps it. The defense lost 6 starters but back are some of the most important. The pass rush was amazing last year and looks to be just as good this year thanks to the return of end Sam Montgomery and end Barkevious Mingo. Other than the quarterback situation and wide reciever position the linebacker core is another issue. Junior Kevin Minter is the lone returner in it. The secondary is one of, if not the best in the SEC. Heisman finalist Tyrann Mathieu returns. He is one of the best game changers I have ever seen. Eric Reid's interception in the Tigers win over the Crimson Tide earlier in the season was one of the few times people noticed the safety. But, in fact, Reid had a fantastic year. His return helps significantly. Special teams may be one of the best in the nation thanks to punter Brad Wing's and kicker Drew Alleman's return.

Heisman Hopeful: Tyrann Mathieu
SEC Rank: 1st

Final Four Picks

1 Kentucky vs. 4 Louisville
Few people will have the four-seeded Louisville taking down the number one overall team in the nation. But this one will be closer than most think. The Wildcats have a guy in the middle named Anthony Davis. Hes okay, I guess. Obviously I'm kidding. The freshman is a freak. He's big with huge hands, ideal for shot-blocking and rebounding. Another freshman Michael Kidd-Gilchrist will be a big issue for the Cardinals also. Gilchrist is a powerful forward that can handle the ball and rebound also. With Anthony Davis inside people tend to forget about the other big man, Terrence Jones. I don't think that inside the Cardinals are any where close to what the Wildcats can bring. Though Louisville does have some interesting figures. Peyton Siva has had a dream tournament. He has an improved shot, can drive in but his special skill is his ability to pass. He runs the offense smoothly. They have some other options with Kyle Kuric, Chane Behanen and Gorguei Dieng but it's Kentucky they're facing here. Kentucky overpowers the Cardinals. Kentucky, 77 Louisville, 68
2 Kansas vs. 2 Ohio State
I believe Bill Self should win coach of the year. Losing both of the Morris brothers, Josh Selby and some other valuables and still leading the Jayhawks to the Final Four. Few can deal with Thomas Robinson inside. He has an enormous wingspan, can shoot, and is intimidating. The exact same can be said for Jared Sullinger. We can't get through this prediction without mentioning the match up earlier in the year. Though Sullinger didn't play in that game. Tyshawn Taylor and Elijah Johnson give teams troubles and Jeff Withey can swat away shots inside. The Buckeyes also have a formidable front line that includes crafty Aaron Craft, William Buford and powerful Deshaun Thomas. Depth is an issue for both of these teams in my opinion. Ohio State looks better on paper but I see Kansas finding a way to win. Kansas, 70 Ohio State, 67