The setting, Boise, ID. The date, September 3, 2009. The time, 10:00 EST. Welcome to the opening game of the 2009 College Football season and what a way to start things off ! A rematch of last years game in Eugene, OR as the Boise St. Broncos battle the Oregon Ducks. Even though this is the first game of the season, a loss to Oregon will ruin any chances of the Broncos going to a BCS Bowl game. A win and Boise St. could run the table ! Even if Oregon loses this game, they have a loaded PAC-10 schedule to rebound from. The strength of the Boise St. defense are arguably the best cornerback duo in the nation in Brandyn Thompson and Kyle Wilson. Look for Oregon QB Jeremiah Masoli to use his mobility and pick up huge chunks of yardage on broken plays and hand off to tailback Blount. Broncos QB Moore will put up impressive offensive stats but it won't be enough, the Ducks gain a measure of revenge.
PICK: Oregon 34 Boise St. 24
Our next game to view is the ACC vs. SEC challenge as Virginia Tech meets the Crimson Tide of Alabama in a neutral site (Georgia Dome). Losing starting running back Darrell Evans will hurt the Hokies but Tyrod Taylor is a similar player to former Hokie Michael Vick. That being said and even with Alabama breaking in a new quarterback, I like the Tide to roll over Va. Tech.
PICK: Alabama 20 Virginia Tech 13
This one should be fun ! The high powered offense of the Cowboys of Okie St. take on SEC perenial power Georgia. Some people are smelling upset as Oklahoma St. is actually a 4 point favorite. Bulldog Joe Cox finally get his chance to star for Georgia. I just think there is a little too much offense for Oklahoma St. I like the home team to win this one.
PICK: Oklahoma St. 31 Georgia 27
Jerry Jones gets his brand new Cowboys Stadium into the spotlight as a non-conference battle between Brigham Young and Oklahoma takes center stage. This could be interesting. I sense an upset here. I know...Oklahoma is loaded on offense and defense BUT the Cougars have 9 starters back on defense and I think they will pressure Sam Bradford into some hurried throws. I think Max Hall will have success throwing intermediate routes to negate the Sooner pass rush.
PICK: Brigham Young 27 Oklahoma 24
One of the most exciting players in the nation, bar none ! Baylor quarterback Robert Griffin can do it all with his feet and arm. The 6'-4" slingshot will make it difficult for Wake Forest to contain him and the much improved Bears defense will slow down Riley Skinner and the Deamon Deacon offense.
PICK: Baylor 37 Wake Forest 17
This one is near and dear to my heart. Ever since Warren Mooon donned the number 1 jersey and took apart Michigan in the 1978 Rose Bowl, I've always been a Washington Husky fan. But lately the Huskies have fallen on hard times. After dismissing Rick Neuheisel (after leading Washington to an 11-1 and 2nd ranked season), the Huskies hired Ty Willingham which turned into a complete disaster. Former Southern Cal. offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian takes over a roster starved for talent coming off a winless season. Fortunately the Huskies open up at home, unfortunately they open against SEC power L.S.U. Perfect game for coach Les Miles to open up the offense for Jordan Jefferson. Look for true freshman Russell Shepard to be heard from and the battering ram backfield duo of Charles Scott and Keiland Williams to run over an undersized Husky defensive front
PICK: L.S.U. 35 Washington 10
"Shake down the echoes"...okay I'm not singing the Notre Dame fight song, but this is the first step in what should be a BCS year for the Irish. Their opening day opponent can score points, but Nevada has no defense and Notre Dame and Jimmy Clausen should roll.
PICK: Notre Dame 41 Nevada 17
This game always produces points in bunches. This years Missouri-Illinois game should be interesting as Mizzou has to replace all time leading passer Chase Daniel and record breaking receiver and kick returner Jeremy Macklin. Juice Williams comes back to lead the Illini and will be throwing to one of the best wide outs in the BIG-10 in Arelious Benn. Curious to see how sophomore Blaine Gabbert will manage his first varsity start.
PICK: Illinois 33 Missouri 24
Tim Tebow should throw for 4 TD's in less than a half as the Gators obliterate Charlston Southern (did anyone know they had a football team ???). Total mismatch !
PICK: Florida 56 Charlston Southern 3
Colt McCoy will throw even more TD's than Tebow ! He'll play into the third quarter against powerhouse Louisiana-Monroe (okay, kidding..they are NOT a powerhouse). Lets have some fun, McCoy begins his Heisman campaign (18-22, 354 yards 5 TD's).
PICK: Texas 58 Louisiana-Monroe 10
This game could be closer than the experts believe. For three quarters anyway. Look for the Tigers of Memphis to keep in close for a half and up to three quarters before Ole' Miss QB Jevan Snead shreds the Tiger secondary.
PICK: Mississippi 34 Memphis 20
Everyone will be anticipating the debut of Trojan freshman QB Matt Barkley. It won't come as easy as everyone things. San Jose St. finished 21st in total defense last year and head coach Dick Tomey is known for his defensive squads. That being said, just too much talent on the Trojan side. Unfortunate injury for Southern Cal. as they lost starting wide receiver Ronald Johnson to a broken collarbone for 6-8 weeks. David Ausberry should step in as an adequate replacement.
PICK: Southern Cal. 38 San Jose St. 10
Just watched the movie "Express" the Ernie Davis Story. To bad Syracuse can't go back in the time machine and suit up Davis, Jim Brown, Floyd Little and Larry Czonka and have Donavan McNabb as the QB ! A new coach but not much talent as the Orange host the Gophers from Minnesota. Gopher coach Tim Brewster started off hot last year 7-0 then lost 6 straight. Game should be closer than most thing but the losing ways continue for the Orange.
PICK: Minnesota 26 Syracuse 14
A HUGE Big Least clash ! Assumption Colleges own Brian Kelly brings his Cincinnati Bearcats to Piscattaway, NJ to take on Rutgers. Defending champ Cincinnati has Tony Pike and an experienced offense but does lose alot of talent on defense. The Scarlet Knights have a one of the best offensive lines in all of college football but lose record setting QB Mike Teel and second round pick Kenny Britt. This should come down to the end and possible the kicking game. I like the coaching ability of Kelly (hey, could I pick against a former Greyhound ??) and the experience of Pike.
PICK: Cincinnati 26 Rutgers 17
My last pick game of the opening slate of games. The annual sunshine state battle between ACC foes Florida St. and Miami, FL. This one is being played in Talahassee and I like Canes' coach Randy Shannon team to win this one. I like the athleticism of QB Jacory Harris and new offensive coordinator Mark Whipple is an offensive guru ! He will open up the Miami offense and the usual stingy Canes' D will pressure Noles' QB Christian Ponder into mistakes.
PICK: Miami 24 Florida St. 17
My Bonus pick will be the Terps of Maryland flying cross country to take on the California Golden Bears. I have Cal in my top 10....I don't have Maryland anywhere. Nuff said, Bears RB Best has a HUGE game, Riley hits some big plays and Cal overpowers the visitors from the ACC.
PICK: California 41 Maryland 20
Those are my picks for the first big weekend of the 2009 College Football Weekend ! Check back next Tuesday for a total recap and see how my picks fared !
Monday, August 31, 2009
Sunday, August 30, 2009
My Heisman Favorites and Longshots for 2009
Lets take a look at some of the players up for the most coveted individual award in all of college football:
The Favorites
Colt McCoy, Quarterback, Texas
Tim Tebow, Quarterback, Florida
Sam Bradford, Quarterback, Oklahoma
Jahvid Best, Running Back, California
Jonathan Dwyer, Running Back, Georgia Tech
Jeremiah Masoli, Quarterback, Oregon
Potential
Jevan Snead, Quarterback, Mississippi
Terrelle Pryor, Quarterback, Ohio St.
A.J. Green, Wide Receiver, Georgia
Julio Jones, Wide Receiver, Alabama
Zac Robinson, Quarterback, Oklahoma St.
Max Hall, Quarterback, Brigham Young
Longshots
Robert Griffin, Quarterback, Baylor
Jacquizz Rogers, Running Back, Oregon St.
Joe McKnight, Running Back, Southern Cal.
Daryll Clark, Quarterback, Penn St.
Juice Williams, Quarterback, Illinois
Taylor Mays, Safety, Southern Cal.
C.J. Spiller, Running Back, Clemson
Eric Berry, Safety, Tennessee
DeMarco Murray, Running Back, Oklahoma
Todd Reising, Quarterback, Kansas
My pick is Colt McCoy. I firmly believe he should have won the award last year and in 2009, he will be center stage come Heisman time and also quarterback his first ever BCS National Championship team.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Best Of The Rest for 2009
So, we've finished the Top 10. Some suprises and some automatics, but rounding out my next 10 picks will have some people shaking their heads in disbelief. If you're a betting man, some of these teams could win you some money from those Vegas oddsmakers.
11. Brigham Young
12. L.S.U.
13. Boise State
14. Georgia Tech
15. Mississippi
16. Georgia
17. Nebraska
18. T.C.U.
19. South Florida
20. Penn State
What ??? Brigham Young ??????? Nebraska ??????? South Florida ????????. Listen, Max Hall will put up Ty Detmer like numbers for Brigham Young and "if" possibly they pull a shocker in their opener against Oklahoma, they could run the table. L.S.U. has talent on both sides of the ball, speed and size. The one thing hurting coach Les Miles team will be consistent quarterback play. The folks in Baton Rouge hope sophomore Jordan Jefferson will step up and show the promise he showed in late November of last year. The Tigers do have a top dual threat recruit in QB Russell Shepherd, but look for him to play a variety of positions and formations for the Bayou Bengals until he is ready or Jefferson implodes. Boise State should surprise knowone. They have been a bigtime program for the past 10 years and coach Chris Peterson has another loaded team. They do lose all time rushing leader Ian Johnson but returning QB Kellen Moore will throw for over 3,000 yards toss 30 TD's. Another potential BCS party crasher "IF" they can take care of Oregon at home on the blue turf. Georgia Tech coach Paul Johnson is one of the better coaches in the country and has won wherever he has traveled. He has brought his triple option attack to the ACC and it paid dividends early. Running back Jonathan Dwyer is poised to have another All-American type year and most of their offensive starters return. They do lose 8 defensive starters and coordinator Jon Tenuta. Who was the team that beat the Gators last year in the swamp....answer MISSISSIPPI. Which QB outplayed Tim Tebow last year....answer JEVAN SNEAD. The Rebels have an abundance of starting experience back on both sides of the ball so look for Ole Miss to battle L.S.U. and Alabama in the SEC West. Georgia loses some key players from last years 9-4 squad, most notebly number one pick QB Matthew Stafford and fellow first rounder Knowshon Moreno. Joe Cox will try to fill the void left by Stafford and Coach Mark Richt will test Caleb King and Richard Samuel to see who will replace the departed Moreno. The Dawgs' do have a super talent at WR in sophomore A.J. Green. Like Bama's Julio Jones, I think this will be Green's final year before leaving for greener pastures. Nebraska coach Bo Pelini is as hard nosed and tough as they come and is re-establishing the Cornhusker tradition. Under former coach Bill Callahan, Nebraska (although recruiting well) became a "soft" west coast offensive, passive zone defensive team. Thing are changing in Lincoln...Pelini has restored the "Blackshirts" into a ball hawking gang tackling unit. Defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh (DO NOT ASK ME TO PRONOUNCE IT !) is a 6'-4" 320 BEAST ! The Huskers will take a hit as top returning RB Quinten Castille was suspended indefinately by coach Pelini for conduct reasons. Inexperience at the quarterback position will be a hurdle, but Zac Lee will play better as he gains experience. Look for Nebraska to unseat Kansas and Missouri in the BIG 12 North. The Horned Frogs return 8 starters on offensive including QB Andy Dillon. All-American defensive end Jerry Hughes (15 sacks) returns to terrorize opposing QB's. They will battle Brigham Young and Utah in the Mountain West. I like South Florida to edge past Cincinnati and Rutgers in the BIG LEAST...I mean BIG EAST. Okay, not to knock the BIG EAST but honestly, top to bottom the Mountain West is a better conference and more deserving of an automatic BCS bid. That being said, the Bulls have exciting QB Matt Grothe and running back Mike Ford returng not to mention sack specialist George Selvie back at defensive end. Selvie will need to get back to his sophomore form when he led the nation in sacks with 18. Penn State rounds out my top 20. Most people have them in the Top 10, but Daryll Clark is mistake prone and loses his top three receivers. Evan Royster bolsters a capable running back corps and a solid defense does return linebacker Sean Lee from injury. Sorry Joe Pa...not this year !
11. Brigham Young
12. L.S.U.
13. Boise State
14. Georgia Tech
15. Mississippi
16. Georgia
17. Nebraska
18. T.C.U.
19. South Florida
20. Penn State
What ??? Brigham Young ??????? Nebraska ??????? South Florida ????????. Listen, Max Hall will put up Ty Detmer like numbers for Brigham Young and "if" possibly they pull a shocker in their opener against Oklahoma, they could run the table. L.S.U. has talent on both sides of the ball, speed and size. The one thing hurting coach Les Miles team will be consistent quarterback play. The folks in Baton Rouge hope sophomore Jordan Jefferson will step up and show the promise he showed in late November of last year. The Tigers do have a top dual threat recruit in QB Russell Shepherd, but look for him to play a variety of positions and formations for the Bayou Bengals until he is ready or Jefferson implodes. Boise State should surprise knowone. They have been a bigtime program for the past 10 years and coach Chris Peterson has another loaded team. They do lose all time rushing leader Ian Johnson but returning QB Kellen Moore will throw for over 3,000 yards toss 30 TD's. Another potential BCS party crasher "IF" they can take care of Oregon at home on the blue turf. Georgia Tech coach Paul Johnson is one of the better coaches in the country and has won wherever he has traveled. He has brought his triple option attack to the ACC and it paid dividends early. Running back Jonathan Dwyer is poised to have another All-American type year and most of their offensive starters return. They do lose 8 defensive starters and coordinator Jon Tenuta. Who was the team that beat the Gators last year in the swamp....answer MISSISSIPPI. Which QB outplayed Tim Tebow last year....answer JEVAN SNEAD. The Rebels have an abundance of starting experience back on both sides of the ball so look for Ole Miss to battle L.S.U. and Alabama in the SEC West. Georgia loses some key players from last years 9-4 squad, most notebly number one pick QB Matthew Stafford and fellow first rounder Knowshon Moreno. Joe Cox will try to fill the void left by Stafford and Coach Mark Richt will test Caleb King and Richard Samuel to see who will replace the departed Moreno. The Dawgs' do have a super talent at WR in sophomore A.J. Green. Like Bama's Julio Jones, I think this will be Green's final year before leaving for greener pastures. Nebraska coach Bo Pelini is as hard nosed and tough as they come and is re-establishing the Cornhusker tradition. Under former coach Bill Callahan, Nebraska (although recruiting well) became a "soft" west coast offensive, passive zone defensive team. Thing are changing in Lincoln...Pelini has restored the "Blackshirts" into a ball hawking gang tackling unit. Defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh (DO NOT ASK ME TO PRONOUNCE IT !) is a 6'-4" 320 BEAST ! The Huskers will take a hit as top returning RB Quinten Castille was suspended indefinately by coach Pelini for conduct reasons. Inexperience at the quarterback position will be a hurdle, but Zac Lee will play better as he gains experience. Look for Nebraska to unseat Kansas and Missouri in the BIG 12 North. The Horned Frogs return 8 starters on offensive including QB Andy Dillon. All-American defensive end Jerry Hughes (15 sacks) returns to terrorize opposing QB's. They will battle Brigham Young and Utah in the Mountain West. I like South Florida to edge past Cincinnati and Rutgers in the BIG LEAST...I mean BIG EAST. Okay, not to knock the BIG EAST but honestly, top to bottom the Mountain West is a better conference and more deserving of an automatic BCS bid. That being said, the Bulls have exciting QB Matt Grothe and running back Mike Ford returng not to mention sack specialist George Selvie back at defensive end. Selvie will need to get back to his sophomore form when he led the nation in sacks with 18. Penn State rounds out my top 20. Most people have them in the Top 10, but Daryll Clark is mistake prone and loses his top three receivers. Evan Royster bolsters a capable running back corps and a solid defense does return linebacker Sean Lee from injury. Sorry Joe Pa...not this year !
Friday, August 28, 2009
Swartz On Sports 2009 College Football Preview
For everyone out there who wanted it, you got it ! Back by popular demand, here is my first installment of "The Ultimate College Football Report" for 2009 ! This is what I will be sticking to....nothing but NCAA College football, sorry I like the college game better than the pro's ! To start things off, I'm going to list my Top 10 and then discuss in brief detail my views for that team and the upcoming season...here we go:
1. Texas
-I like the Longhorns to win it all in 2009. I know, the defending National Champ Florida Gators have their entire defense back not to mention the "Ultimate Warrior" in quarterback Tim Tebow, but I believe Texas quarterback Colt McCoy will have a monster year. He could even improve on his eye popping 76.7 pass percentage from last year. Besides picking defenses apart, McCoy showed his mobility by leading the Longhors in rushing last year. The remainder of the offense looks strong with McCoy's favorite target Jordan Shipley back to haul in TD catches. Massive offensive tackle Adam Ulastoski will lead an above average offensive line and pave holes for backs Vondrell McGee and Fuzzy Whitaker. The only question marks will come on defense where Texas loses first round draft pick Brian Orakpo. Look for Sergio Kindle to pick up the slack and attack Big 12 quarterbacks all season long. Kindle should get some help in the form of incoming freshman Alex Okafor. The Horns' might stumble once, but I like them to play in the National Championship game.
2. Florida
-What can I say, read the above Gator description. Entire "D" back, nation leading 26 INT's last year, Plus 22 in turnover margin, menacing LB Brandon Spikes (need I say more). Heck, I haven't even talked about Tim Tebow yet ! The 6'-3" 245 option bulldozer can beat defenses with his arm, legs and heart. He is a pure "winner". Although some question his throwing mechanics (quirky semi sidearm delivery) the guy is a winner and can "WILL" his team to the National Championship game. Losing explosive speed like Percy Harvin will hurt a little bit but burners like Jeff Demps and Chris Rainey will more than make up for Harvin's loss. Starting tight end, Aaron Hernandez has the potential to be the best at his position in all of college football. Incoming freshman receiverAndre DuBose (who's father starred at Florida in the 1970's) is a potential star in the making and could push for significant playing time. The Pouncey twin will anchor a verteran offensive line. Besides the above mentioned Brandon Spikes, the Gators have arguebly the finist defensive backfield in the nation. A pre-season injury to strong safety Ahmad Black (7 INT's) will hurt, but Garden State safety Will Hill should pick up the slack. Like Texas, I think the Gators will stumble once in a very tough SEC, but one loss in perhaps the nations premier conference will not derail the Gators chance at defending their title.
3. Oregon
-No, I'm NOT insane....yes...Oregon, NOT Southern Cal. Longtime head coach Mike Bellotti has moved up to the Athletic Directors post and offensive guru Chip Kelly finally takes over the "Quack Attack". His first mission is to find every way possible for starting quarterback Jeremiah Massoli to handle the ball. Massoli is my Heisman darkhorse and reminds me a little of Tebow. His best move is to hand off to mountain sized RB LeGarrette Blount (1,002 yards). The only downside to the Duck offensive is the loss of 4 starters along the offensive line. If Oregon can find adequate replacements, they should rack up points. Although Oregon loses some defensive leadership, namely safetly Patrick Chung, I believe the Ducks have enough play makers to break the Trojans hold over the PAC 10 and win a place in the BCS. Look for safety Kenny Rowe and Chad Peppars to contribute as well as returning linebacker Bryson Littlejohn and Josh Kaddu. Besides a tough PAC 10 schedule (they do get Southern Cal. at home) they will be tested on September 4th at Boise State and at home to Sugar Bowl champ Utah.
4. Alabama
-Who am I to ever bet against a Nick Saban coached team. In two short seasons, he has turned the Tide around from a middle of the pack SEC team to a perennial BCS contender. This years Crimson Tide will be led by their defense. Defensive Tackle Terrence Cody (who plays like a HUGE tide rolling in from an ocean storm) will bottle up opposing running games while ALL-SEC linebacker Rolando McClain cleans em' up. On offense sophomore sensation Julio Jones could be a terror to defensive backs "IF" projected starting quarterback Greg McElroy can deliver the ball and not force his throws. Bama' fans better enjoy Mr. Jones because he'll be playing on Sundays next year. Look for running back Mark Ingram to continue to improve and become one of the better backs in the SEC. An early trip to Blacksburg, VA and a battle with the Hokies should prove a stern test, one in which the Tide will pass with flying colors.
5. Notre Dame
-Okay, now you're all saying "The guy has lost it". This is the last chance for Charlie Weis to prove he can be a successful head coach. Listen, he has some talent to work with, a third year returning starter in quarterback Jimmy Clausen, two of the best wide receivers in the nation, new defensive mastermind Jon Tenuta and a "cake" schedule. The Irish play their toughest game at home against Southern Cal. and while traditional foe Michigan will be improved, the Woverines are not yet ready to challenge the Irish. It all starts with Clausen who will finally live up to his much Parade All American status. He has a pair of stud wideouts in Golden Tate and Michael Floyd (and Duval Kamara ain't that bad either). Tackle Sam Young leads the offensive line and MUST protect Clausen better. The Irish have a host of capable backs but someone will have to step up and be the homerun threat (are you listening Armando Allen ?). On defense, the return of top cornerback Darrin Walls will make it more difficult to throw against the golden domers and linebacker Brian Smith should benefit from D-Coordinator Tenuta's agressive schemes. It so pains me to even put the Fighting Irish up this high, but honestly, with above average talent and a joke of a schedule, if Charlie Weis does not win at least 9 games, he should be shipped out of South Bend and back to the New Jersey high school gridiron where he started !
6. Oklahoma
-Yes Sam Bradford will put up huge numbers (but not as gaudy as last years). He has two talented running backs in Chris Brown (not to be confused with the singer/girlfriend beater) and DeMarco Murray who both went for 1,000 yards last year, tight end in Jermaine Gresham who would have been a first round pick had he come out his junior year and a potential star wideout in Ryan Broyles. The Sooners do take a hit on the offensive line as they have to replace 4 starters. Luckily that one starter is All-American tackle Trent Williams who will move from right tackle to Bradford's blind side replacing Phil Loadholt. Boomer Sooner will again be stout on the defensive side of the ball with linebacker Ryan Reynolds coming back off of injury, fellow linebacker Austin Box and All-American defensive tackle Gerald McCoy causing havoc in the middle of the Sooner D-Line. Bradford will have an All-American type year but may wish he came out last year where he would have been the top pick in the draft. Then again, he would have been drafted by the Lions, better to stay at Oklahoma, even with a rebuilt offensive line !
7. Southern California (U.S.C.)
-I just don't want to confuse people, they might think U.S.C stands for University of South Carolina (now would I have a team nicknamed "Gamecocks" in my top 25 ???). Yes, from top to bottom and depth wise the Men of Troy have the most talent in college football (due to Pete Carroll's first rate recruiting) maybe even better than a few N.F. L. teams ! Losing so much first rate talent on the defensive side of the ball (entire linebacker corps) including first round picks Brian Cushing and Clay Matthews Jr. will not be easy to replace but believe it or not, projected starters Michael Morgan (6'-4" 220, 4.35 speed) Malcolm Smith (6'-2" 230 4.4 speed) and Chris Glippo (6'-4" 250, 4.6 speed) are faster and more athletic than last years starters ! I know we're forgetting someone, a 6'-4" 230 All-American version of former Trojan Ronnie Lott...that would be Taylor Mays who spurned the big dollars of the N.F.L. for a chance to win a BCS championship with the Trojans. At his size and 4.2 speed, Mays projects as a top 5 pick in the 2010 draft. On the offensive side of the ball, Southern Cal will insert true freshman Matt Barkley at quarterback and although he should excel in his first varsity action against San Jose St. will be thrown into the deep end for the Trojans visit to Columbus, OH and the Buckeyes. The upside is, Barkley has been enrolled at Southern Cal. since January so has participated in spring practice and has gotten a chance to aclimate himself to the environment of college life. The downside is you can't speed up experience. If Mark Sanchez had come back, the Trojans would have been my number 2 team. If Barkely falters early, look for Aaron Corp to slide into the starting role. Although he doesn't possess the arm strength of the freshman, he is more mobile and does have varsity experience. A finally healthy Joe McKnight will help as will Stefon Johnson, C.J. Gable and Marc (son of Wendell) Tyler. The Trojans posess the best pass receiving fullback in college football, Stanley Havili and their entire offensive line (a team strength) return. A pre season injuiry to All-American center Kristopher O'Dowd could prove costly but the Trojans are so deep, I do not expect Carroll to rush him back until fully healthy. The downside, the schedule..did I mention trips to Eugene, Berkley, Columbus and South Bend...killer schedule.
8. California
-The PAC 10 with three teams in my Top 10 ? Yup....Hey I love Jeff Tedford as an offensive coach, he is pure genius. Bears running back Jahvid Best might be the "best" back in the nation. All he did last year was average a PAC 10 best 8.1 yards per carry good for 1,580 yards and 15 TD's. But as gifted as Best is, how far the Golden Bears will go will be up to quarterback Kevin Riley. At times last year Riley looked like an all league quarterback, other times he played like a scared inexperienced third stringer. Tedford named Riley the starter over Brock Mansion so it's sink or swim for Riley. Losing All-American center Alex Mack will hurt the Bears line so Cal will need to find a grade A replacement for him. The defensive is led by All-PAC 10 cornerback Syd'Quan Thompson who led the team with 4 interceptions last year. The bad news for PAC 10 quarterbacks is that Cal's entire defensive backfield returns. Replacing leading tackler Anthony Felder will not be easy, so it will be up to holdovers D.J. Holt and Mychal Kendicks to improve and become playmakers for the Bears to challenge Oregon and Southern California. Oh yes, the Bears get the Trojans in Berkley !
9. Ohio State
-Terrelle Pryor, Terrelle Pryor, Terrell Pryor. Fans in Columbus are wondering if it's time to take the reigns off the super sophomore quarterback. Can you believe in spring practice the 6'-6", 245 lb. QB ran a reported 4.35 forty ? Now that's scary (almost as scary as that weak throwing motion). If the Buckeye coaches can correct that a bit, Pryor will be downright scary for Big 10 defenses. Another "scary" fact, despite looking just average in some games last year, Pryor still led the BIG 10 in passing efficiency....watch out opponents ! Watch for the game with the Trojans, Pryor could hurt the visitors from Los Angeles with his feet and pocket mobility. The Buckeyes do lose all world back Chris Wells, but do return "Boom" Herron and Brandon Saine. Look for true freshman Jamal Berry to make a push for playing time. Cameron Heyward, Thaddeus Gibson and Doug Worthington lead an agressive defense front but will miss linebackers James Laurinaitis and Marcus Freeman. Lets just hope that for television ratings sake, Ohio St. does NOT make another BCS championship game, especially against an SEC team !
10. Oklahoma St.
-This BIG 12 team is loaded with offensive talent. The only problem is that beyond the starters, their is no depth to challenge for an outright BIG 12 title. Check out this offensive firepower, QB Zac Robinson (3,149 passing yards) 26 TD's. RB Kendall Hunter (1,555 yards) 16 TD's. WR Dez Bryant (87 catches) 19 TD's. Amazing trio of offensive fireworks but an injury to any of the above will seriously hamper the Cowboys in those showdown games (Sooners, Longhors, Red Raiders). Now with all those offensive numbers, lets look at the defenseless side of the ball. As quickly as the Pokes put up points on the scoreboard, the defense allowed almost as much right back ! Oklahoma St. does return 10 of last years top 12 tacklers. New Defensive Coordinator Bill Young will help in this regard but will have his hands full in trying to slow down the high octane offenses of the BIG 12. Defensive End Richetti Jones will have to step it up to compensate for a lackluster pass rush. My prediction is the Cowboys are going to have to outscore their opponents to reach 9 or 10 wins.
1. Texas
-I like the Longhorns to win it all in 2009. I know, the defending National Champ Florida Gators have their entire defense back not to mention the "Ultimate Warrior" in quarterback Tim Tebow, but I believe Texas quarterback Colt McCoy will have a monster year. He could even improve on his eye popping 76.7 pass percentage from last year. Besides picking defenses apart, McCoy showed his mobility by leading the Longhors in rushing last year. The remainder of the offense looks strong with McCoy's favorite target Jordan Shipley back to haul in TD catches. Massive offensive tackle Adam Ulastoski will lead an above average offensive line and pave holes for backs Vondrell McGee and Fuzzy Whitaker. The only question marks will come on defense where Texas loses first round draft pick Brian Orakpo. Look for Sergio Kindle to pick up the slack and attack Big 12 quarterbacks all season long. Kindle should get some help in the form of incoming freshman Alex Okafor. The Horns' might stumble once, but I like them to play in the National Championship game.
2. Florida
-What can I say, read the above Gator description. Entire "D" back, nation leading 26 INT's last year, Plus 22 in turnover margin, menacing LB Brandon Spikes (need I say more). Heck, I haven't even talked about Tim Tebow yet ! The 6'-3" 245 option bulldozer can beat defenses with his arm, legs and heart. He is a pure "winner". Although some question his throwing mechanics (quirky semi sidearm delivery) the guy is a winner and can "WILL" his team to the National Championship game. Losing explosive speed like Percy Harvin will hurt a little bit but burners like Jeff Demps and Chris Rainey will more than make up for Harvin's loss. Starting tight end, Aaron Hernandez has the potential to be the best at his position in all of college football. Incoming freshman receiverAndre DuBose (who's father starred at Florida in the 1970's) is a potential star in the making and could push for significant playing time. The Pouncey twin will anchor a verteran offensive line. Besides the above mentioned Brandon Spikes, the Gators have arguebly the finist defensive backfield in the nation. A pre-season injury to strong safety Ahmad Black (7 INT's) will hurt, but Garden State safety Will Hill should pick up the slack. Like Texas, I think the Gators will stumble once in a very tough SEC, but one loss in perhaps the nations premier conference will not derail the Gators chance at defending their title.
3. Oregon
-No, I'm NOT insane....yes...Oregon, NOT Southern Cal. Longtime head coach Mike Bellotti has moved up to the Athletic Directors post and offensive guru Chip Kelly finally takes over the "Quack Attack". His first mission is to find every way possible for starting quarterback Jeremiah Massoli to handle the ball. Massoli is my Heisman darkhorse and reminds me a little of Tebow. His best move is to hand off to mountain sized RB LeGarrette Blount (1,002 yards). The only downside to the Duck offensive is the loss of 4 starters along the offensive line. If Oregon can find adequate replacements, they should rack up points. Although Oregon loses some defensive leadership, namely safetly Patrick Chung, I believe the Ducks have enough play makers to break the Trojans hold over the PAC 10 and win a place in the BCS. Look for safety Kenny Rowe and Chad Peppars to contribute as well as returning linebacker Bryson Littlejohn and Josh Kaddu. Besides a tough PAC 10 schedule (they do get Southern Cal. at home) they will be tested on September 4th at Boise State and at home to Sugar Bowl champ Utah.
4. Alabama
-Who am I to ever bet against a Nick Saban coached team. In two short seasons, he has turned the Tide around from a middle of the pack SEC team to a perennial BCS contender. This years Crimson Tide will be led by their defense. Defensive Tackle Terrence Cody (who plays like a HUGE tide rolling in from an ocean storm) will bottle up opposing running games while ALL-SEC linebacker Rolando McClain cleans em' up. On offense sophomore sensation Julio Jones could be a terror to defensive backs "IF" projected starting quarterback Greg McElroy can deliver the ball and not force his throws. Bama' fans better enjoy Mr. Jones because he'll be playing on Sundays next year. Look for running back Mark Ingram to continue to improve and become one of the better backs in the SEC. An early trip to Blacksburg, VA and a battle with the Hokies should prove a stern test, one in which the Tide will pass with flying colors.
5. Notre Dame
-Okay, now you're all saying "The guy has lost it". This is the last chance for Charlie Weis to prove he can be a successful head coach. Listen, he has some talent to work with, a third year returning starter in quarterback Jimmy Clausen, two of the best wide receivers in the nation, new defensive mastermind Jon Tenuta and a "cake" schedule. The Irish play their toughest game at home against Southern Cal. and while traditional foe Michigan will be improved, the Woverines are not yet ready to challenge the Irish. It all starts with Clausen who will finally live up to his much Parade All American status. He has a pair of stud wideouts in Golden Tate and Michael Floyd (and Duval Kamara ain't that bad either). Tackle Sam Young leads the offensive line and MUST protect Clausen better. The Irish have a host of capable backs but someone will have to step up and be the homerun threat (are you listening Armando Allen ?). On defense, the return of top cornerback Darrin Walls will make it more difficult to throw against the golden domers and linebacker Brian Smith should benefit from D-Coordinator Tenuta's agressive schemes. It so pains me to even put the Fighting Irish up this high, but honestly, with above average talent and a joke of a schedule, if Charlie Weis does not win at least 9 games, he should be shipped out of South Bend and back to the New Jersey high school gridiron where he started !
6. Oklahoma
-Yes Sam Bradford will put up huge numbers (but not as gaudy as last years). He has two talented running backs in Chris Brown (not to be confused with the singer/girlfriend beater) and DeMarco Murray who both went for 1,000 yards last year, tight end in Jermaine Gresham who would have been a first round pick had he come out his junior year and a potential star wideout in Ryan Broyles. The Sooners do take a hit on the offensive line as they have to replace 4 starters. Luckily that one starter is All-American tackle Trent Williams who will move from right tackle to Bradford's blind side replacing Phil Loadholt. Boomer Sooner will again be stout on the defensive side of the ball with linebacker Ryan Reynolds coming back off of injury, fellow linebacker Austin Box and All-American defensive tackle Gerald McCoy causing havoc in the middle of the Sooner D-Line. Bradford will have an All-American type year but may wish he came out last year where he would have been the top pick in the draft. Then again, he would have been drafted by the Lions, better to stay at Oklahoma, even with a rebuilt offensive line !
7. Southern California (U.S.C.)
-I just don't want to confuse people, they might think U.S.C stands for University of South Carolina (now would I have a team nicknamed "Gamecocks" in my top 25 ???). Yes, from top to bottom and depth wise the Men of Troy have the most talent in college football (due to Pete Carroll's first rate recruiting) maybe even better than a few N.F. L. teams ! Losing so much first rate talent on the defensive side of the ball (entire linebacker corps) including first round picks Brian Cushing and Clay Matthews Jr. will not be easy to replace but believe it or not, projected starters Michael Morgan (6'-4" 220, 4.35 speed) Malcolm Smith (6'-2" 230 4.4 speed) and Chris Glippo (6'-4" 250, 4.6 speed) are faster and more athletic than last years starters ! I know we're forgetting someone, a 6'-4" 230 All-American version of former Trojan Ronnie Lott...that would be Taylor Mays who spurned the big dollars of the N.F.L. for a chance to win a BCS championship with the Trojans. At his size and 4.2 speed, Mays projects as a top 5 pick in the 2010 draft. On the offensive side of the ball, Southern Cal will insert true freshman Matt Barkley at quarterback and although he should excel in his first varsity action against San Jose St. will be thrown into the deep end for the Trojans visit to Columbus, OH and the Buckeyes. The upside is, Barkley has been enrolled at Southern Cal. since January so has participated in spring practice and has gotten a chance to aclimate himself to the environment of college life. The downside is you can't speed up experience. If Mark Sanchez had come back, the Trojans would have been my number 2 team. If Barkely falters early, look for Aaron Corp to slide into the starting role. Although he doesn't possess the arm strength of the freshman, he is more mobile and does have varsity experience. A finally healthy Joe McKnight will help as will Stefon Johnson, C.J. Gable and Marc (son of Wendell) Tyler. The Trojans posess the best pass receiving fullback in college football, Stanley Havili and their entire offensive line (a team strength) return. A pre season injuiry to All-American center Kristopher O'Dowd could prove costly but the Trojans are so deep, I do not expect Carroll to rush him back until fully healthy. The downside, the schedule..did I mention trips to Eugene, Berkley, Columbus and South Bend...killer schedule.
8. California
-The PAC 10 with three teams in my Top 10 ? Yup....Hey I love Jeff Tedford as an offensive coach, he is pure genius. Bears running back Jahvid Best might be the "best" back in the nation. All he did last year was average a PAC 10 best 8.1 yards per carry good for 1,580 yards and 15 TD's. But as gifted as Best is, how far the Golden Bears will go will be up to quarterback Kevin Riley. At times last year Riley looked like an all league quarterback, other times he played like a scared inexperienced third stringer. Tedford named Riley the starter over Brock Mansion so it's sink or swim for Riley. Losing All-American center Alex Mack will hurt the Bears line so Cal will need to find a grade A replacement for him. The defensive is led by All-PAC 10 cornerback Syd'Quan Thompson who led the team with 4 interceptions last year. The bad news for PAC 10 quarterbacks is that Cal's entire defensive backfield returns. Replacing leading tackler Anthony Felder will not be easy, so it will be up to holdovers D.J. Holt and Mychal Kendicks to improve and become playmakers for the Bears to challenge Oregon and Southern California. Oh yes, the Bears get the Trojans in Berkley !
9. Ohio State
-Terrelle Pryor, Terrelle Pryor, Terrell Pryor. Fans in Columbus are wondering if it's time to take the reigns off the super sophomore quarterback. Can you believe in spring practice the 6'-6", 245 lb. QB ran a reported 4.35 forty ? Now that's scary (almost as scary as that weak throwing motion). If the Buckeye coaches can correct that a bit, Pryor will be downright scary for Big 10 defenses. Another "scary" fact, despite looking just average in some games last year, Pryor still led the BIG 10 in passing efficiency....watch out opponents ! Watch for the game with the Trojans, Pryor could hurt the visitors from Los Angeles with his feet and pocket mobility. The Buckeyes do lose all world back Chris Wells, but do return "Boom" Herron and Brandon Saine. Look for true freshman Jamal Berry to make a push for playing time. Cameron Heyward, Thaddeus Gibson and Doug Worthington lead an agressive defense front but will miss linebackers James Laurinaitis and Marcus Freeman. Lets just hope that for television ratings sake, Ohio St. does NOT make another BCS championship game, especially against an SEC team !
10. Oklahoma St.
-This BIG 12 team is loaded with offensive talent. The only problem is that beyond the starters, their is no depth to challenge for an outright BIG 12 title. Check out this offensive firepower, QB Zac Robinson (3,149 passing yards) 26 TD's. RB Kendall Hunter (1,555 yards) 16 TD's. WR Dez Bryant (87 catches) 19 TD's. Amazing trio of offensive fireworks but an injury to any of the above will seriously hamper the Cowboys in those showdown games (Sooners, Longhors, Red Raiders). Now with all those offensive numbers, lets look at the defenseless side of the ball. As quickly as the Pokes put up points on the scoreboard, the defense allowed almost as much right back ! Oklahoma St. does return 10 of last years top 12 tacklers. New Defensive Coordinator Bill Young will help in this regard but will have his hands full in trying to slow down the high octane offenses of the BIG 12. Defensive End Richetti Jones will have to step it up to compensate for a lackluster pass rush. My prediction is the Cowboys are going to have to outscore their opponents to reach 9 or 10 wins.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
