College Football Preview: 20. Oklahoma Sooners

20. Oklahoma Sooners                                     

Blake Bell

The Sooners finished off 2012 10-3 last season which was a slight disappointment. Though they still won the Big 12 title even with an inconsistent defense and struggles in the fourth quarter. Record-setting quarterback Landry Jones is gone and there are gaps all over the defense. But even with all these questions the Sooners are still expected to contend and even possibly make a push for another Big 12 title.

Backfield:  With Jones gone the quarterback position is wide open but it appears junior Blake Bell is the favorite. Nicknamed "The Belldozer" for his powerful red zone scrambles Bell has proved he can dominate on the ground but he only attempted 16 passes in 2012. Bell has a strong arm but hasn't proven that he can use it yet. If Bell doesn't prove he deserves the job, coach Bob Stoops could lean towards sophomore Kendal Thompson who is also more of a scrambler. Luckily for the Sooners the rest of this backfield is stacked and is a definite strength. Senior Damien Williams had a total of 946 yards last season in a pass-happy offense. With Oklahoma breaking in a new quarterback all of his stats could skyrocket. Freshman Keith Green will be relied on to an impact player from the start. Not a lot of teams can say that there fullback is an impact player but with senior Trey Milliard, Oklahoma can. Milliard is a focal point of the offense and can run and is a strong receiver out of the backfield.

Recievers: The return of senior Jalen Saunders should really help out Bell or whoever starts. Saunders had 62 receptions and had 829 yards in only 9 games last year. If he stays healthy and plays the full season he is a no-doubt All-Big 12 threat. Sophomore Trey Metoyer also returns after a disappointing 2012. Metoyer was a big-time commit for Bob Stoops and staff and was supposed to be the next Ryan Broyles but was just average a year ago. Metoyer still has potential and is a real downfield threat. The question is; will a quarterback be able to get the ball downfield? The Sooners could rely on incoming freshman Dannon Cavil, a four-star threat who is big and plays more like a tight end. The return of Jaz Reynolds after a year-long suspension should definitely help this offense become more explosive. 

Offensive Line: Up front, the Sooners should have on the best offensive lines in the Big 12 even with the loss of Lane Johnson. The other four starters return including senior center Gabe Ikard who should anchor the unit. Ikard is athletic and mature and has proven he can handle great interior pass rushers. With his smarts and talent he could end up a starter on Sundays. The rest of this line isn't as talented as Ikard but has gained valuable experience and has a number of solid players. Junior Tyrus Thompson is massive and should hold down the right tackle spot. On the other side the Sooners should rely on junior Daryl Williams who will play an important role in protecting the quarterback's blind side. Williams is also gigantic but not very athletic but he has the potential for a big year. Oklahoma should also benefit from the returns of two impact guards, Tyler Evans and Nila Kasitati, both who missed all of 2012 with torn ACLs. 

Defensive Line: This should be a little bit of a weakness for this squad. It needs to be strong in order to help improve this defense because it needs to get pressure on opponents. There are no proven pass rushers but there is potential for stardom. Junior Chuka Ndulue proved to be an impact player through much of 2012, recording 5 sacks and being a force throughout. There is talent at end with guys like sophomore Mike Onuoha and Rashod Favors. Both are young and have some growing up to do but can apply pressure. Along with Ndulue sophomore Jordan Phillips should be a beast inside. Phillips is more of a run stuffer than Ndulue but can also disrupt backfields. The Sooners got a big pick up in Moore, Oklahoma product D.J. Ward. The four-star find has great instincts and is very strong even tough he isn't too big. 

Linebackers: Whether the Sooners run a 4-2-5 or a 3-4 or any scheme linebackers will play an important role. Senior Corey Nelson's career has been a great one here in Norman and he hopes to end it with a bang. Nelson proved to be the leader of the corps and proved that he can be an impact player no matter the score, evidenced by a 9 tackle performance in the team's loss to Notre Dame. The long time contributor has proven that he can rack up a lot of tackles but needs to be more of a pass rushing threat this year. Sophomore Frank Shannon will start alongside Nelson. Shannon had a solid 2012 and should continue to improve this year. He is also a sure tackler and makes play all over the field. Another sophomore, Eric Striker, should be able to make an impact when given the opportunity. Junior outside linebacker Aaron Franklin is a little more of a pass rusher than Nelson but isn't as experienced and doesn't have great instincts. Depth could be an issue for this unit but it's top couple 'backers are strong enough to help out in the run game.

Aaron Colvin

Secondary: The high point of the off season for the Sooners was when senior Aaron Colvin decided to return for his senior year. Colvin was the team's best defender throughout 2012, recording 4 interceptions and 61 tackles and should be shutdown at the cornerback position. The other cornerback slot should be manned by sophomore Cortez Johnson, an athletic corner with big time potential. Johnson is pretty big for a corner, at 6-2 which should help him against the long, big receivers of the Big 12 after spending time at Arizona. Senior Gabe Lynn looks like he will be the starter at the free safety position. Lynn has a nose for the ball and will be able to lay a hard hit once in a while. Junior Julian Wilson is an athletic defensive back who has proven he can make some highlight reel plays. Oklahoma got a steal when they landed a California product in safety Hatari Byrd. Byrd is a smart, athletic presence who chose Oklahoma over USC, UCLA and Cal. Byrd proved that the Sooners and Stoops can even be forces in recruiting on the West Coast. Defensive coordinator Mark Stoops will lean heavily on Colvin but another defensive back has to step up, perhaps Johnson.

There is talent in Norman, like usual. Though if the quarterback position is weak and the defense doesn't improve it will be tough to be a contender in the tough Big 12. If the Sooners can get through a tough end of the season stretch (Iowa State, Kansas State and Oklahoma State on the road) it is still possible that Oklahoma can grab a Big 12 title.

College Football Preview: 19. Baylor Bears

19. Baylor Bears

At the end of 2012, Baylor could have beat anybody. After some post-RG3 issues the Bears beat number one Kansas State and UCLA and ended up with an 8-5 mark. Their star quarterback Nick Florence is gone after filling in nicely for RG3 last season. With the return of two dangerous backs, some dangerous receivers and a greatly improved defense anything could happen for Baylor in 2013.

Glasco Martin

Backfield: Baylor may have the best backfield in the Big 12. That may be crazy to think without Florence or RG3, but it is true. Junior Bryce Petty will likely be the next quarterback in Waco and he has the experience to have a big year. Petty only threw 10 passes well but knows the system and will have a plethora of targets to throw too. Petty is huge standing at 6-3, 230 pounds and can make plays with his legs like the way the two quarterbacks did before him. Oregon transfer Lache Seastrunk has the ability for a big 2013. Seastrunk proved to be a big play threat last season averaging 7.7 yards per carry. He has breakaway speed but is also durable and is a force between the tackles. Senior Glasco Martin also is back. Martin is riding a wave of momentum after a three touchdown performance in the Holiday Bowl win over UCLA. If both play like they finished last year, both could be All-Americans.

Receivers: Game-changing senior Tevin Reese returns and gives Petty an immediate threat. Reese recorded 957 yards last season and averaged nearly 20 yards a catch. He is fast and agile and is just plain difficult to cover. Also returning is junior Levi Norwood who also had a fantastic '12. Norwood also proved to be a game-changer with his blend of speed and great leaping ability. Norwood and Reese combined for 93 receptions and give Petty two targets that should help him feel more comfortable from the start. Five-star commit Robbie Rhodes should also make an impact in 2013. Rhodes has the speed to have a big freshman year and was a huge find for coach Art Briles and his staff. Senior tight end Jordan Najvar should give the Bears a big, imposing threat in the passing game. Well Reese, Norwood and Rhodes make plays down the field Najvar should do damage close to the line of scrimmage.

Offensive Line: In order for this ground game to be as dangerous as it has the potential to be this line needs to be strong. Senior Cyril Richardson anchors the solid unit. Richardson will start at left guard and has the great mix of athleticism and strength that All-American guards have. Also sure to dominate on the left side will be massive left tackle Spencer Drango, who enters his sophomore year. Drango isn't very athletic but he uses his gigantic frame to push away the great pass rushers of the Big 12. This line is very experienced with talents like senior center Stephan Huber, right tackle Kelvin Palmer and sophomore Desmine Hilliard. 6-7 sophomore LaQuan McGowen will be stuck behind Richardson this year but is considered the future at the position. Briles and staff also brought in a Texas talent in raw but high-potential tackle Maurice Porter.

Defensive Line: This line is talented and experienced and could become a quality unit. Senior end Chris McAllister is sure to be a force on the left side after recording 6 sacks a year ago. McAllister isn't huge but he is extremely athletic and uses his speed off the edge to constantly disrupt opponents. On the other edge Terrance Lloyd uses his athleticism to due much the same thing. With Lloyd and McAllister dominating on the perimeter and demanding double teams, it should make things easier for the interior linemen. Nose tackle Beau Blackshear is like the rest of the line; a little undersized but has the psychical tools to be a force. Three-star prospect K.J. Smith is likely to get some snaps especially if Lloyd or McAllister struggle. Smith isn't great in any one category but can contribute as a pass rusher immediately.

Linebackers: Junior middle linebacker Bryce Hager led the Big 12 in tackles, recording 124 in 2012. Hager has fantastic instincts and really matured a lot through the course of last season. Hager also proved he could be a strong coverage linebacker which we know is important in the pass happy Big 12. With McAllister a beast on the end, Hager should also help in blitzing. The other linebacker in this 4-2-5 aggressive defense is senior Eddie Lackey who took big
steps last year. Like the rest of this Baylor team Lackey was on fire a year ago, as he won two straight Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week awards to end 2012. Briles really worked hard to bring in a great class full of linebackers who can be future stars. Four-star commit Brian Nance is a great pass rushing outside linebacker who can make some big plays. Also coming in is Raaquan Davis and Travon Blanchard, two Texas products who were great finds.

Secondary: In order for the Bears to reach their full potential this secondary must take some major steps in 2013. Opposing teams averaged 323.5 yards per game through the air, a startling number. Senior Sam Holl has the talent to have a strong finale in Waco. Holl has a nose for the ball and has proven that he can rack up the tackles. Another senior, Ahmad Dixon, can also be a big-play threat even though he is a little bit small. Baylor also brought back a number of impact defensive backs including tiny but quick sophomore Terrell Burt, senior Joe Williams and senior K.J. Morton. Both cornerbacks, Williams and Morton, are also small and get pushed around a bit. But both are athletic and can hang with even the quickest receivers. This unit got a huge lift when senior Demetri Goodson was granted a medical hardship and able to return. Goodson broke his arm against West Virginia but has the talent and smarts to be a force.

With Oklahoma and Texas still weaker than they have been in a while Baylor has the opportunity to threaten for the Big 12 title. If this defense improves from 504 yards allowed per game in 2012 and Seastrunk and Martin play to their potential anything is possible.

College Football Preview: 18. UCLA Bruins

18. UCLA Bruins

The city of Los Angeles has turned. For a long time the USC Trojans have ruled the city with an iron fist winning conference title after conference title. But last year even when the Trojans had Matt Barkley, Marqise Lee and a team filled with all-stars it was UCLA who won 9 games (including a dominant one over USC) and won the Pac-12 South title. The key pieces from last year's team returns to make it three straight Pac-12 championship appearances.

Backfield: Coach Jim Mora surprised a lot of people by announcing freshman Brett Hundley would start at quarterback. Hundley emerged as a dual threat

Brett Hundley

who was smart last year, not making many mistakes, a difficult thing for a freshman. He should continue to improve his sophomore year and could be a dark horse for a Heisman. The biggest issue for this Bruins team will be replacing Johnathan Franklin who ran for 1,734 yards in 2012. It isn't known who will replace him but junior speedster Jordan James and experienced senior Damien Thigpen should get a chance. Mora could also go with a committee approach to fit UCLA's spread offense.

Receivers: This looked like it would be a big issue entering last season but it proved to be a solid unit. And last year's leading receiver Shaq Evans returns for his senior year. Evans had 60 receptions for 877 yards last year and assuming Hundley does improve he could have an even bigger year. Other than that the receivers are less proven but the talent is there. Sophomore Devin Lucien didn't play at all in 2012 but has the potential to be a star in 2013. He has downfield speed and has the ability to make some spectacular catches. Two other sophomores also have star potential in Tyler Scott and Jordan Payton. Both aren't that fastest players on the field but are consistently find ways to get open and make plays. Another sophomore Devin Fuller does a lot of interesting things and could be a dangerous option as both a receiver and possibly a Wildcat quarterback if Mora wants something different. Freshman Eldridge Massington is a Texas product who should get the opportunity to show what he can do this year.

Offensive Line: Although the Bruins have an All-Pac 12 guard in junior Xavier Su'a-Filo the line still is a pretty large weakness. The Bruins offensive line was very inexperienced last season and more action should mean some improvement but even slight improvement won't help too much. Su'a-Filo is a beast on the left side and was part of the reason that Franklin had such a great 2012. He anchors the line and has the strength to be a force every snap. The right guard position is also in good hands. Senior Alberto Cid is massive and takes up a lot of space up front and will play an important role being the only senior starter on this O-Line. The other starter on the left side along with Su'a-Filo will be tackle Torian White. White is very athletic but he still needs to get a little bigger and stronger to be a force. If he doesn't improve the Bruins could have some issues as he is a very important piece to the puzzle protecting Hundley's blind side. Sophomore center Jake Brendel has the potential to be a very impressive player but doesn't move very well and is still maturing.

Defensive Line: Up front UCLA has a good mix of great run stuffers and athletic pass rushers. There is experience there with the return of two impact ends in seniors Cassius Marsh and Owamagbe Odighizuwa. Marsh is a freak of an athlete and proved to be an extremely solid pass rushers. Announcers should work on saying Odighizuwa's name early because they will be saying it often with his playmaking ability. Up the middle the Bruins have a proven run stuffer in senior Seali'l Epensa who matured a lot last year. Epensa isn't huge but he reads plays well and is athletic enough to fight his way through linemen and make plays in the backfield. Sophomore Ellis McCarthy was an important recruit last season but didn't the chance to prove what he could do last year with little playing time. He should see more snaps and could battle Epensa for a starting job because of his pass rushing ability. Four-star end Kyle Fitts is a USC decommit who has the potential to be a force from the beginning.

Anthony Barr

Linebackers: Former running back Anthony Barr came out of nowhere to be a real force. He proved to be an outstanding pass rusher recording 13.5 sacks including the one that injured Matt Barkley at the end of last year. He also is a strong coverage 'backer and made plays all over the field. Despite receiving first-round projections in the NFL Draft he decided to return for his senior season which was huge for UCLA. The inside 'backer slot is also in good hands with another talented pass rusher in junior Eric Kendricks who had 149 tackles, averaging more than 10 a game in '12. With Barr blitzing constantly it should really help out the other outside linebacker, sophomore Aaron Wallace. Wallace is a real athlete and teams double teaming Barr on the perimeter it should open holes and lanes for Wallace. Along with Kendricks the inside linebacker is strong with another sophomore Erick Zumwalt. Zumwalt isn't as much of a proven tackler as Kendricks but can make plays from sideline to sideline. Mora and his staff also improved this unit with a strong recruiting class with four-star commits Isaac Savaiinaea and Deon Hollins who should both make an impact.

Secondary: This could be the thing that could keep the Bruins from winning the Pac-12. Last year's star Tevin McDonald was released from the team for breaking team rules. There is talent in this unit but a lot of inexperience. Sophomore Randall Gorfoth should likely start at the free safety position and has the talent and potential to have a strong year. Junior Dietrich Riley will likely fight for the strong safety spot with senior Brandon Sermons. Both are experienced and have great instincts but need some time to adjust to the starting role. The cornerbacks aren't much better but like a lot of this team has the potential to be solid. Freshman Ishmael Adams is a little bit small, just 5-8, but sticks to receivers like glue and can make plays. The bright spot for the Bruins was that they focused on their secondary in this year's recruiting class. Arizona product Priest Willis should compete right away for the safety spots. Tahaan Goodman has good size and is very athletic and could be the future in this secondary.

The Bruins should continue to improve but even with Hundley and Barr they can't take the next step (Pac 12 title) unless their secondary improves and they find a back to replace Franklin.

College Football Preview: 17. Florida State Seminoles

17. Florida State Seminoles

Florida State is officially back. After years of average play the Seminoles won 12 games a year ago and dominated the ACC. Even with quarterback E.J. Manuel gone along with all of their great front seven, the 'Noles still have the talent to win their second straight ACC championship. If Florida State can sort out their quarterback position and find some quality linebackers, Florida State can continue to rise back to power.

Backfield: A successful season rests on the shoulders of redshirt freshman Jameis Winston. Winston is a huge quarterback with a rocket of an arm. He also can extend plays with his legs. Though there is a little bit of a quarterback controversy. Gigantic, 6-6 sophomore Jacob Coker and another redshirt freshman, Sean Maguire, will be candidates if Winston struggles. Like any young quarterback Winston will struggle in many areas including decision making and there may some growing pains early this year. Luckily for FSU they have a

James Wilder

number of great backs that will take the pressure off Winston. Juniors James Wilder and Devonta Freeman will likely split carries. Freeman proved to be extremely dangerous gaining 660 yards on just 111 attempts. Both Freeman and Wilder are quick and agile and are both very versatile. Fullback Lonnie Pryor is gone leaving a leadership void in the backfield but the Seminoles should still dominate on the ground.

Receivers: For the first time in a while the Seminoles have found a fantastic receiver. Junior Rashad Greene had a fantastic 2012 recording 57 receptions and is extremely shifty. His return means Winston will have an All-American caliber player to rely on early on in his career. Though Greene isn't the only dangerous receiver on the 'Noles' roster. Senior Greg Dent is undersized, just 5-11, but he is a very fast option that can make plays downfield. Other than Greene and Dent, sophomore Kelvin Benjamin is a huge, imposing target. Benjamin is pretty raw and is still learning Florida State's offense but has the potential to be a stud. Winston also has a security blanket in junior tight end Nick O'Leary who is one of the best tight ends in the nation. He isn't too much of a blocker but he is dangerous in the passing attack.

Offensive Line: Up front the Seminoles have the build of a SEC team with a great and psychical line and superior ground attack. The best linemen could be junior left tackle Cameron Erving. Erving is a massive, dominant force who moves very well for his big, 310 pound frame. With his potential and size he should be a future first round draft pick. Erving isn't the only great linemen on this FSU line. Senior center Bryan Stork is an anchor in the middle and is a very good run blocker. With Erving being young and Stork being the only senior he should really help in a leadership role. With Erving dominating on the left side teams will look for openings on the right. It won't be easy to find any as the Seminoles have loads of potential on that side. Junior right guard Tre Jackson can hang with even the best interior pass rushers and like Stork is a force as a run blocker. Junior tackle Bobby Hart should likely get the start at the right tackle spot and has the potential to have a big year. With a number of great run blockers and two great backs teams should really have struggles stopping this offense at times.

Defensive Line: Gone are talents Bjoern Werner, Tank Carradine and Everett Dawkins but the 'Noles' D-Line still has the talent to be great. Coach Jimbo Fisher should continue to rely on last year's great recruiting class with the help of sophomore end Mario Edwards. Edwards also has the potential to be a future star in the NFL with his size and speed. He is very strong and is a more athletic Werner. FSU also has two great tackles up the middle including nose tackle Timmy Jernigan who can be a force this year and has proven he can do a number of different things. The other tackle, senior Demonte McAllister, also has the talent to do great things. He can stuff up the run but also proved to be a great pass rusher recording 3.5 sacks a year ago. The other end spot is a little bit of a question but like the rest of the line, has players with a lot of potential. Sophomore Giorgio Newberry is huge and has the ability to have a very productive 2013. It is amazing to think with two All-ACC defensive linemen gone that the 'Noles have more talent on their line this year.

Linebackers: This appears to be the biggest weakness on an otherwise great defense. Only one starter remains on this unit in senior Christian Jones, who is talented but needs some help around him. Jones proved to be a great tackler recording 95 tackles in 2012 and was durable playing all 14 games and being a force in every one. Sophomore Terrance Smith and senior Telvin Smith should compete for the other linebacker spots. Both are good coverage 'backers and are good tacklers but maturity looks like it will be an issue. Five-star prospect Matthew Thomas could see immediate playing time with this weak linebacker corps. Thomas is very athletic and has great range, flying from sideline to sideline.

Terrence Brooks

Secondary: With how great the line is it should help this secondary which overall is a solid unit but has some holes in it. Gone is first-round pick Xavier Rhodes and Greg Reid leaving gaps at the cornerback slots. Former safety Lamarcus Joyner had an average 2012 after a great '11. He will move to cornerback to offset the loss of Rhodes. He is small just 5-8 which may hurt him with bigger targets but he has the coverage skills and hitting ability to have a strong year. The other cornerback spot is also a question with sophomore Ronald Darby and junior Nick Waisome competing for the job. Darby is more athletic and has more potential but Waisome has more experience. The safety positions are in good hands with Terrence Brooks who started all 14 games a year ago and Tyler Hunter both returning. Hunter proved to be a big play threat last year recording 3 picks in 2012.

A lot of talent still remains on the Florida State roster and if Winston is as good as advertised the Seminoles can definitely make it two straight ACC championships.

College Football Preview: 16. Michigan Wolverines

16. Michigan Wolverines

After winning 11 games in 2011 it was a tough year for Michigan in 2012. Even with the return of Heisman candidate Denard Robinson and others the Wolverines struggled to an 8-5 mark including a blowout loss to Alabama. Although Robinson is gone the quarterback position is in good hands and their is talent everywhere in Ann Arbor.




Backfield: Robinson is gone but the quarterback position still has experience

Devin Gardner

and quite a talent. Junior Devin Gardner played significant time last season and showed flashes of brilliance. Coach Brady Hoke favors a run-based, pro style attack and that fits perfectly in with Gardner's skills. Gardner is just as dangerous as Robinson with his legs and has a huge arm. He won't need to pass a lot this year with how talented back Fitzgerald Toussaint is. Now a senior, Toussaint is one of the most talented running backs in the Big Ten. He had 514 yards before suffering a broken leg. If he is healthy in 2013 he should be a real threat this year. Toussaint is more of a between the tackles runner while incoming freshman Derrick Green, the nation's fourth-best back, is more dangerous in the open field.

Receivers: This is a huge hole for this Michigan team. Senior Jeremy Gallon returns as Gardner's top option after a strong last season. He proved to be a big play threat in '12 after recording nearly 17 yards per catch last year. Gallon has game breaking speed and is very exciting to watch. Also returning is another senior in Drew Dileo. Dileo has good hands and is ready to step up in a big way after recording 20 receptions last season. Other than those two the wide receiving corps is very weak and young. Sophomore Amara Darboh has a ton of potential but has some big weaknesses. The tight end position is very strong with the return of sophomores Devin Funchess and A.J. Williams. Both are big, intimidating presences in the middle of the field and Funchess has proven to be a very effective blocker.

Taylor Lewan

Offensive Line: After briefly flirting with the NFL after a fantastic junior season offensive tackle Taylor Lewan returns. Lewan is huge and tough to get by, but is very athletic and can impose his will at the next level. He is a basically an All-American lock and should be the first tackle taken in the 2014 draft. Lewan will be a force on the left side but teams shouldn't be able to rush from the right easily either. Senior tackle Michael Schofield is a beast and can keep opponents back. Although Lewan and Schofield are monsters on the side, the biggest weakness is in the middle. At one guard spot Hoke looks like he will have to rely on freshman Ben Braden who has potential but is definitely unproven. The center slot is also a weakness and unproven as the starter looks like it will be sophomore Jack Miller. Maybe even freshman Patrick Kugler might get a chance to start as the nation's top incoming center.

Defensive Line: Getting a linemen who can get pressure on opponents will be key for Michigan in 2013. The Wolverines loss a number of players up front after an average line a year ago. Junior Frank Clark has the talent to be a true force this season. Clark is a speedy end and is very tough to stop and could rack up a number of sacks this year. The middle of the line is very solid with the return of senior nose tackle Quinton Washington. Washington is a monster and clogs up running lanes with his 300+ pound frame. Starting alongside Washington and Clark up front will likely be senior Jibreel Black who had a strong 2012. He is also a run stuffer and can provide some decent pass rush. If Clark struggles or anything the Wolverines may rely on an impact freshman Taco Charleton. The extremely athletic, 6-6, 249 pound beast will probably be a sack machine in a couple of years in Ann Arbor. With his frame and tackling ability it is a possibility he could spend time at outside linebacker to get more playing time this year.

Linebackers: This group of linebackers is a problem with the top two talents gone. One of them, Kenny Demens was an absolute tackling machine and another, Jake Ryan, is a great pass rusher. Ryan was expected to be a huge contributor this season after recording 88 tackles and 4.5 sacks last year. Though he tore his ACL in spring drills and is expected to miss the whole season. Junior Desmond Morgan returns after a solid 2012 will move from the outside to the middle. That should definitely increase his production. Another Gordon, Cam, should move into a starting role after being a rotational player the past couple of years. The senior should be a force as a pass rusher and should help Michigan in coverage as well. Sophomore James Ross should start at the other outside 'backer slot and has the potential to be a stud. The starting three is relatively strong though depth will be a issue this season.

Secondary: The Wolverines' pass defense was very strong last season and shouldn't be too bad again in 2012. Although Jordan Kovacs and J.T. Floyd both are gone this unit is solid. Junior cornerback Blake Countess returns from a torn ACL. He has a ton of talent and can be a shutdown corner at times but staying healthy is a real issue for him. The other cornerback position appears to be a major question mark for the Wolverines. Another junior, Raymon Taylor, could have a chance at starting but freshman Ross Douglas will make a real push to be the starter. Four-star Detroit product Jourdan Lewis could also get an opportunity to get some snaps. Senior Thomas Gordon had two interceptions last year and returns to be the starting free safety. He is also a sure tackler and can make his fair share of plays. The strong safety spot is also a question where junior Marvin Robinson will battle for the job. A number of freshman should also make immediate impacts.

Although the defense has a lot of holes and the receiving corps doesn't have much depth the Wolverines could still win the Big Ten with all the talent on their roster. If Gardner turns into the second-coming of Robinson Michigan could ride that talent all the way to a BCS bowl.

College Football Preview: 15. LSU Tigers

15. LSU Tigers

It was an overall disappointing year in Baton Rouge last season. Even without star Tyrann Mathieu, the Tigers had a huge number of NFL prospects and a number of great running backs. Though LSU ended up with a 10-3 mark and lost a heartbreaker to Clemson in the Chick-fil-A bowl. Even with a ton of players gone LSU still has the talent to compete in the brutal SEC West.

Zach Mettenberger

Backfield: In order for the Tigers to have any chance at contending in the SEC West they need their passing game to improve dramatically. Zach Mettenberger returns for his senior season after a rollercoaster of a junior year. He has a great arm but he made bad decisions throughout all of last year. LSU brought in former Ravens' offensive coordinator Cam Cameron to run the offense. Cameron could really help improve this passing offense that has been weak for a long time. As usual, the Tigers have a ton of great backs including last year's leading rusher sophomore Jeremy Hill. Hill had 755 yards in 11 games and proved to be a real threat in the red zone recording 12 touchdowns. Also returning is senior Alfred Blue, who missed most of last year. LSU also returns a strong blocking and running fullback in senior J.C. Copeland.

Receivers: Another reason this passing game could flourish is the returns of a number of fantastic receivers. The top four receivers in 2012 return this year including junior Jarvis Landry, who led the team a year ago. Landry is extremely athletic and has great hands. He has average speed but gets open because of how precise he runs his routes. Also back is another junior, Odell Beckham. Beckham is a more dangerous threat downfield but wasn't as consistent as Landry. With teams focusing on the dangerous combo of Beckham and Landry it should leave opportunities for other receivers including senior Kadron Boone. Boone can stretch the field on occasion but does most of his damage in the middle of the field and constantly moves the chains. The tight end position is in good hands with junior Travis Dickson the most likely starter.

Jeremy Hill

Offensive Line: The Tigers have one of the nation's best tackles on their roster in junior left tackle La'el Collins. Collins is a very athletic tackle, getting to the next level and picking up additional pass rushers. With Collins dominating on the left side, teams will most likely target the other sides. Sophomore right guard Trai Turner has a ton of potential but he must learn quickly against the great SEC defenders. The Tigers lose a very important player in center P.J. Lonergan who was the leader of this line last season. Junior Elliot Porter will likely start in his place and he must also learn on the fly. He has a little more experience than Turner but is still pretty unproven. Coach Les Miles brought in a tackle that could make an impact immediately in 6-7 Illinois product Ethan Pocic, who could spend some time at tackle. Tight end Dickson is also a good blocker that could help this ground attack.

Defensive Line: Gone are Barkevious Mingo, Sam Montgomery and Bennie Logan but this line could still be very good. Junior defensive tackle Anthony Johnson returns after being a rotational player for LSU a year ago. He had 30 tackles in 2012 and can really stuff up running lanes. Starting alongside Johnson up the middle is another proven run stuffer in junior Ego Ferguson who had 14 tackles last year. It isn't known if both will be effective as starters but both will make plays either way. In order to continue their run of dominant defense the Tigers need to find pass rushers to replace Mingo and Montgomery. Sophomore Danielle Hunter will be the top candidate to lead the team in sacks in 2013. He has a huge frame and is extremely athletic and could definitely be the second coming of Mingo. Junior Jordan Allen may have a chance to start at the other spot or backup Hunter. He is big and strong and could make a habit of disrupting offenses.

Linebackers: The Tigers also suffered a huge loss in their linebacking corps with middle linebacker Kevin Minter now gone. Minter was one of the best linebackers in the nation all of '12 and had 130 tackles. Replacing him at the middle linebacker position is a question. Junior D.J. Welter may have the upper hand at the spot but sophomore Ronnie Fiest could also get a look. Though even with the loss of Minter LSU still has a pretty strong group of linebackers with the return of seniors Lamin Barrow and Tahj Jones. Barrow was a real factor all of last season and is an All-SEC candidate this year. He had 104 tackles last season a number that could continue to skyrocket with more opportunities in 2013. Jones is also an impact player this year and can make a ton of plays. He reads plays very well and should also be a somewhat factor as a pass rusher. Both Barrow and Jones are experienced and can study offenses.

Secondary: Even without Mathieu the Tigers' secondary was still very solid through all of last season. The cornerback positions are in good hands even with Tharold Simon now gone. Two sophomores, Jalen Mills and Jalen Collins, will be fantastic from the start. Both are athletic and good coverage players. Mills has the edge in experience after being thrown into a starting spot when Mathieu was kicked off the team. The Tigers also have two great safties including strong safety Craig Loston. Although injury prone Loston is a fantastic player when he is healthy. He can make big plays as he recorded 3 interceptions last year and took one back for a touchdown. The other safety spot is a little bit of a question. Junior Ronald Martin is a hard hitting machine and can also make his fair share of big plays. Also sure to see some significant time is sophomore Micah Eugene who had a very strong freshman season recording 3.5 sacks in 2012.

Even with a number of players gone the Tigers have the talent to contend in the SEC. If Mettenberger can take big strides this year a BCS bowl definitely isn't completely out of question especially if the Tigers can take down Alabama or Texas A&M.

NBA Offseason 2013: Pelicans and Evans

The new look New Orleans Pelicans made a splash today when they landed former Kings guard Tyreke Evans in a three-team, sign and trade deal. The addition of Evans should help enforce the Pelicans as threats in 2013-2014.

Tyreke Evans

The Pelicans gave up relatively nothing to pick up Evans. They traded off center Robin Lopez who really didn't have a future in New Orleans to Portland. Guard Grevis Vasquez was traded off to Sacremento. Lopez is just a role player at best; he can score on occasion and is an average rebounder. He'll help give some depth to the Portland frontcourt but he will never be a quality starter in the NBA. New Orleans did give Vasquez a ton of minutes at the point guard spot last season but it is understandable why they got rid of him. With the addition of rising star Jrue Holiday, Vasquez was getting pushed out of the point guard role. With Evans coming in and Eric Gordon returning there just wasn't enough minutes for Vasquez. Sacremento gains a strong starting point guard who isn't much of a scorer but is a strong playmaker in him.

It might be a little tough to imagine the Pelicans as playoff contenders this next season but the future is definitely bright. With how tough the Western Conference is it will take huge years from Holiday and Evans and Davis staying healthy. There is a lot of questions with all of these additions though. Evans, Holiday and the rest of this Pelicans roster will need some time to gel and most of this roster is filled with youth and inexperience. All three of the presumed starting guards for New Orleans need the ball to be effective which is a definite conflict. Holiday is an okay passer but he is most effective as a scorer and three-point shooter. Both Gordon and Evans are good scorers but neither are great passers. And even with four very good starters on their roster (Holiday, Gordon, Evans and Davis) New Orleans still has a gaping weakness. Ryan Anderson should likely start at the power forward slot. He can stretch the floor with his long range ability but he is undersized and is not a good rebounder. That is a very big loss because if the Pelicans are planning to play three guards, they need all the rebounding frontcourt players they can get. Other than their starting five the Pelicans roster is filled with unproven youngsters and little depth meaning the Pelicans will struggle late in games. With the addition of Evans, New Orleans has a lot of scoring ability, good shooting and speed in transition. If the Lakers don't get Dwight and Utah is weaker than last year it could leave an opening in the playoffs that the Pelicans could sneak into.

New Orleans' Projected 2013 Lineup:
G Jrue Holiday
G Eric Gordon
G/F Tyreke Evans Player Profile
F Ryan Anderson
C Anthony Davis
Sixth Man: Austin Rivers

College Football Preview: 14. Texas Longhorns

14. Texas Longhorns

Despite the fact that the Longhorns won 9 games last season, frustration is at an all time high entering 2013. Even with considerable talent on their roster the Longhorns are 22-16 in the last three seasons ever since Colt McCoy left. The Longhorns have the talent and offense to win the Big 12 this year. If they don't Mack Brown's tenure in Austin will be done.



Backfield:  Junior quarterback David Ash made big strides last season. He proved to be a better decision-maker and his arm strength seemed to improve. Offensive coordinator Major Applewhite has implemented a brand new,

David Ash

up-tempo offense that should remind a lot of people of Oregon's. Ash looked good running it in the spring game and could have a huge year if he continues to mature. If Ash struggles expect Mack Brown to give senior Case McCoy an opportunity. Im not have a big fan of Colt's brother. He is pretty accurate and doesn't read defenses well. Impact freshman Tyrone Swoopes is the future in Austin and impressed in the spring game. The  Longhorns have a deep stable of quality backs including junior Malcolm Brown and sophomore Johnathan Gray, who lived up to the hype of his recruiting status. Gray will have a chance to be the feature back though they could spit carries.

Receivers: Although Texas has emphasized the ground attack the past couple of years, the reason the passing game could really improve is the great receiving corps. Senior Mike Davis has emerged as a big-time threat. He is great at separating himself from defensive backs and has proven he can be a downfield threat. Ash should be more agressive this year so Texas can attack defenses with longer pass plays which should help Davis excel. Many recognized junior Jaxon Shipley, mainly because of his star brother, Jordan, a legend in Austin. Though Jaxon is making a name for himself after a very strong 2012 in which he recorded 59 receptions for 737 yards. He has great hands and can record his fair share of spectacular catches. Junior Bryant Jackson and speedy freshman Jake Oliver should also make plays. Sophomore tight end M.J. McFarland should make an impact in this offense right away as he is important in moving the chains.

Offensive Line:  This offensive line should go a long way in helping this new-look offense. It is anchored by junior center Dominic Espinosa who should help out Ash a lot. He moves well and recognizes pass rushers very well and has All-Big 12 potential. Senior left guard Trey Hopkins also is an above-average linemen. He is very experienced and looked like he has the stamina to help out in this up-tempo offense. Massive freshman guard Darius James is also ready to make an immediate impact. Tackles Josh Cochran and senior Donald Hawkins are also quality linemen.

Ashton Dorsey

Defensive Line: The Longhorns defense was terrible last season a rarity in Austin. In order for it to improve this defensive line must get pressure on the opponent. Senior end Jackson Jeffcoat had 4 sacks in just six games and when healthy, is one of the best pass rushers in the Big 12. Jeffcoat is an athletic end and plays a lot like an outside linebacker but his size helps him against big offensive linemen. Senior defensive tackle Ashton Dorsey is a monster up the middle. He is very mobile for a tackle and can disrupt opponents' backfields regularly. The Longhorns must find a replacement at the other end spot for Alex Okafor, the Big 12 leader in sacks. Sophomore Shiro Davis is athletic and has star potential though Texas may lean towards senior Reggie Wilson who definitely has the clear edge in experience. Whoever does start at the opposing defensive end spot has huge shoes to fill.

Linebackers: This year's group of linebackers is extremely talented and should help improve a rush defense that 192.2 yards last season. Middle linebacker Steve Edmond returns after recording 103 tackles a year ago. The junior does a good job at reading defenses and is also a strong coverage linebacker. Coverage 'backers are very important in the Big 12 with all of these pass-happy offenses. Another junior, Jordan Hicks, is ready for a big year at outside linebacker. Hicks is a good tackler and can also become a factor as a pass rusher. Though being in a 4-3 defense I wonder how much he will get the opportunity to blitz. The other outside linebacker spot is a little bit of a question. Junior Tevin Jackson has the chance to start there though a number of other players will get a chance. Sophomores Peter Jinkens and Kendall Thompson both are strong players and could also get some real playing time.

Secondary: The Linghorns lose one of the most talented players in the nation after safety Kenny Vacarro left to the NFL. Though this secondary is still a pretty strong unit with a number of upperclassmen and potential. Junior Quandre Diggs had 4 interceptions in '12 and is an All-American threat. He is extremely athletic and can hang with any receiver, even the fantastic receivers in the Big 12. The other cornerback is also very talented in senior Carrington Byndom who isn't as strong and isn't as good at coverage but he is a great open field tackler. The safeties must replace Vacarro and they have the talent to do it. Senior Adrian Phillips is a hard hitter and average coverage guy and should likely start at the strong safety position. Junior Mykkele Thompson is the starter at the free safety position unless he struggles. He has extreme potential but isn't a proven talent yet. Kenny's brother, sophomore Kevin, may never be as talented as his brother but he definitely has loads of potential.

A new-look offense that should fit Texas' personnel well and a hopefully improved defense means the Longhorns could have a big year. If Ash continues to improve a Big 12 title isn't completely out of question with Oklahoma rebuilding.

Brad Stevens to the NBA

Brad Stevens

After years of rumors that Brad Stevens, former head coach at Butler, might take a move to a better program he finally did it today. Doc Rivers ditched Boston to take the job over for the Clippers and the Celtics turned around and filled it with Stevens. Over his tenure at Butler, Stevens proved to be a coaching prodigy. After taking over in 2007 he quickly led the Bulldogs to 30 wins his first year and as we all know, led the upset-minded Butler team to two Final Fours and two national championship losses to Duke and UConn. Stevens went 166-49 and dominated the Horizon League winning all, our a share of four league titles. But, those days with Butler are over and it is time to think about what he will bring to the NBA and Celtics.

It definitely looks like rebuilding is the word for the Celtics in 2013-2014 and the near future. Gone are Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce, while Ray Allen is long gone. Rajon Rondo's future in Boston is in question. He is young and a solid building block but it doesn't seem like he would want to stay and go through a rebuild. A possible option is that Boston tells him take his time recovering from a torn ACL, tanks the year and hopes for a chance at 2014's draft prize, Andrew Wiggins. Other than Rondo the roster is full of misfits and players that can start but aren't stars. Boston would love to think this year's first round pick, Kelly Olynyk, could mature into the team's future star center. Stevens has shown a knack for developing big men (Matt Howard, Andrew Smith) and Olynyk already is pretty polished. Jeff Green is young and can score though it doesn't look like the Celtics think he is part of their future. Avery Bradley and Jared Sullinger are two quality options though Bradley must improve his jump shot and Sullinger must prove he can stay healthy and develop a more dangerous mid range game. Sullinger and Stevens look like they will work well together. Sullinger is the type of big man that Stevens likes; a psychical player who can really fight through contact. The thing we know that Stevens teams always will have is discipline. His point guards at Butler were always smart and very unselfish. Rondo could definitely fit in well into that system if he does indeed stay in Boston and returns to his old form. Stevens' teams also are great at defense and are also good rebounding squads. A number of the players on this roster can play great defense and their is rebounding potential in Sullinger and unproven Fab Melo.

The Celtics roster fits Stevens' system pretty well and he has the youth and smarts to lead Boston through this rebuilding process. Maybe the Celtics have a decent year but still land comfortably in the lottery and have a shot at a player like forward Jabari Parker or pick up a guard depending on Rondo. Overall this was a good hire for the Celtics though many are going to question if Stevens can adjust to the NBA, when more experienced options were available.

College Football Preview: 13. Notre Dame Fighting Irish

13. Notre Dame Fighting Irish

  It was a pretty stunning year for the Irish last season as they went 12-0 in the regular season with wins over Oklahoma, Michigan and Stanford. With the return of a number of star defensive players and some real potential on offense the Irish have the ability to reach another BCS bowl. Even without Everett Golson it could be a magical year in South Bend.




Backfield: Everett Golson will not play in 2013 but there is hope that he can start in the future. Senior Tommy Rees will take over for Golson at quarterback.

Tommy Rees

Unlike a number of backups he has great experience as a starter and has showed he has a good fell of the offense. Though he doesn't have the potential that Golson has and does struggle under pressure. The Irish must have also find a new running back after Cierre Wood graduated. Junior George Atkinson has the talent to be fantastic this season. He has a good mix of speed and strength and also can help out Rees as a receiver out of the backfield. Another junior, Amir Carlisle, will also compete to be an impact player immediately. The USC transfer is great in the open field but Brian Kelly could like to see him become more of a threat between the tackles.

Receivers: Senior wide receiver T.J. Jones has All-American potential. Jones caught 50 passes for 649 yards last year while breaking in a young quarterback. With a more experienced Rees and being the top receiver in Notre Dame's offense he could have a huge year. Other than Jones, this receiving corps is inexperienced but the talent is there. Davaris Daniels has the hands and breakaway speed to become a real threat in '12. Rees will also have to rely on sophomore Chris Brown and senior Daniel Smith, who uses his big frame to be a force on jump balls. The real question mark is at tight end where the Irish are looking for a replacement for Tyler Eifert, who was the best tight end in all of the land a year ago. 6-7, 260 pound junior Troy Niklas is more of a blocker while senior Alex Welch is more of a receiving threat. Kelly could lean towards Welch because Notre Dame needs a big force that can move the chains.

Offensive Line: The Irish offensive line didn't get enough credit for what it did last year. It helped the ground game become a force and helped devlope Golson by protecting him. Senior left tackle Zack Martin is an All-American threat and will be very important protecting the blind side of Rees. He has good size, moves very well and is a very good leader to this unit. Also sure to dominate on the left side will be guard Chris Watt and at center will likely be junior Matt Hegarty. If Hegarty struggles likely to get a shot will be junior Nick Martin, Zack's brother, who has a ton of potential. Brian Kelly and his staff will also rely on a number of freshman to play a lot of snaps from the start. Tackle Hunter Bivin has the talent to dominate and Illinois product Collin McGovern was a great four-star commit.

Defensive Line: Kapron Lewis-Moore and Manti Te'o are gone but this front seven still is so strong it could be on the nation's best. Senior nose guard Louis Nix has been an impact player for a long time. With his experience and huge size he can be a run stuffer (45 tackles in 2012) and can disrupt backfields. On the edge the Irish will definitely rely on junior Stephon Tuitt who had 12 sacks last season. He is incredibly tough to stop, standing at 6-6 and despite being huge he is extremely quick to the ball. The other starting D-Linemen in this 3-4 defense will likely be sophomore Sheldon Dann who has the talent to be a beast. Five-star talent Eddie Vandedoes will be an impact player from the beginning of his career to the end in South Bend. When Nix leaves expect Vanderdoes to become an All-American threat immediately. With this talent it appears teams should have some major issues running the ball against the Irish just like last year.

Linebackers: Manti Te'o was the heart and soul of this defense and it isn't easy to replace that. Who will replace him is a definite question. Junior Jarrett Grace and Carlo Calabrese should both get a chance to start at the inside 'backer slot. Starting alongside the Te'o replacement should be senior Dan Fox. He is a leader and has loads of experience. With his instincts and smarts he can definitely make plays from sideline to sideline. The outside linebacker positions are also in good hands with loads of experience at them. Senior Prince Shembo is extremely fast and should rack up a lot of tackles. It will be intresting to see if he can also make an impact as a pass rusher with offensive lines really focusing on the 1-2 punch of Nix and Tuitt. Also sure to be a real impact player this year will be senior Danny Spond who is a sure tackler. Another five-star commit Jaylen Lewis should get an opportunity to spend time at outside linebacker as well.

Bennett Jackson

Secondary: There were a lot of questions surrounding this secondary when 2012 began but it proved to be a strong and effective unit. The most imporant part of it returns with senior Bennett Jackson who had 4 interceptions a year ago. He is a great coverage cornerback and recognizes plays extremely well. Presumed 2012 starter Lo Wood returns after missing all of last season with a torn Achilles. He has the potential to be a stud but his maturity is a little bit of an issue. Both of those cornerbacks are strong coverage players and Wood has proved he can be a hard hitter. Notre Dame should also rely on both their safeties. Unfortunately that is a weakness with little experience and a number of issues. Senior Austin Collinsworth has proven he can be a real factor at times though is weak in a number of areas. The other starting safety is a real question as both junior Matthias Farley and sophomore Elijah Shumate will compete for the spot.