THE GOOD
(26- 49)
| 26) Louisville 27) Ohio State 28) Colorado St. 29) E. Carolina 30) Temple 31) UNLV |
32) Texas
A&M 33) Pittsburgh 34) Auburn 35) Purdue 36) Arkansas 37) Southern Cal |
38) Notre
Dame 39) Wisconsin 40) Ole Miss 41) Michigan St. 42) West Virginia 43) Penn State |
44) North
Carolina 45) Iowa State 46) Illinois 47) Syracuse 48) UAB 49) Indiana |
26) Louisville
2000 Record: 9 - 3 (6 - 1)
Returning Starters: 8 offense; 6 defense
Last Year: Projected by most pundits to finish no better than fourth in the C-USA, the Cardinals won the conference and ended the season with a loss to Colorado State in the Liberty Bowl. The biggest surprise was the play of Dave Ragone. Ragone was able to make most Cardinal fans forget Chris Redman.
Losses: The Cardinals lost the interior of the nation's No. 4 ranked rushing defense. They must replace several excellent defensive linemen, and linebacker Rashad Harris (105 tackles, 2 ints).
Strengths: They return all their key offensive skill position players in Ragone (2,621 yds, 27 tds, 61% complete), tailback Tony Stallings (810 tds, 6 tds), and receiver Deion Branch (1,016 yds, 9 tds). They also return second leading tackler Curry Burns (104 tackles, 2 ints) and bandit Michael Brown (94 tackles, 9 tfl's, 3 int).
Why They Ain't In The Top 25: While the Cardinals get Southern Miss and Colorado State at home, they have to play Cincinnati, East Carolina, and Illinois away, and that's a lot to ask. Also, there are too many unanswered questions on defense.
What Could Get Them Into The Top 25: The September
1st match up against Kentucky in Lexington is a big instate rivalry
and either a launching pad or a stumbling block. With new head coach
Guy Morriss on the Kentucky sidelines, the Cats are a total unknown,
and will be difficult to prepare for.
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27) Ohio State
2000 Record: 8 - 4 (5 - 3)
Returning Starters: 6 offense; 6 defense
Last Season: With losses to Michigan in The Horseshoe and to South Carolina 24 - 7 in the Outback Bowl, former Buckeye coach John Cooper didn't have much of a chance of holding on to his job. After all, you don't lose to the Wolverines five of the last six seasons, four times going into the game with the better record, and keep your job at Ohio State. So, now comes Jim Tressel, who over the past fifteen years built Division 1-AA Youngstown State into a juggernaut. Tressel knows full well the importance of beating Michigan. His father played for the Buckeyes, and as a boy Tressel shagged kicks for the recently deceased Lou "The Toe" Groza, also an Ohio State alum.
Losses: The Buckeyes have to replace some skill on the offensive side of the ball in leading receiver Ken-Yon Rambo (15 yds/catch) and leading rusher Derek Combs (888 yds). The defense loses second leading tackler Joe Cooper, defensive end Brent Johnson (9 sacks, 15 tfls), and cornerback David Mitchell, who intercepted five passes for a whopping 113 yards in returns. Also, All-American Nate Clemons entered the draft a year early, as did defensive tackle Ryan Pickett, and both were first round draft picks.
Strengths: I've believed all along that last year's second-leading rusher Jonathan Wells has the talent to be a superstar. Wells is a 12-game player who gained 58 yards and scored six touchdowns, and when he runs angry, he can be hard to bring down. Quarterback Steve Bellisari returns, but needs to play better in big games for the Buckeyes to improve this season. The defense returns experience in the interior of the line and at linebacker, but needs to replace some big-time players who left for the NFL.
Why They Ain't In The Top 25: There are way too many unknowns with this team. While Tressel's gonna do a fine job, it will take some time for the Buckeyes to learn his system, and they lost Dave Kennedy, their strength conditioning coach of the past 12 years. Also, Bellisari hasn't proved his leadership ability in big games.
What Could Get Them Into The Top 25: The Buckeyes go to the Rose Bowl to play UCLA on the third Saturday of the season. That will be the only time the Buckeyes see the Rose Bowl during the 2001 season, and a loss could put a major dent in any post-season hopes. Also, Bellisari must become a leader if the Buckeyes are to succeed.
28) Colorado State
2000 Record: 10 - 2 (6 - 1)
Returning Starters: 6 offense; 6 defense
Last Season: Sonny Lubick always manages to wring every drop of effort out of his Colorado State teams, and the 2000 season was no different. With losses to Arizona State 13 - 10 and Air Force 44 - 40, the Rams came only seven points from running the regular season table, then went on to the Liberty Bowl, where they beat Louisville 22 - 17. In 2001, you can count on the Rams to be tough again, but you can also count on Colorado, Brigham Young, and UNLV, three teams they beat last season, to be greatly improved as well.
Weaknesses: The Rams lost a lot of skill from last season in quarterback Matt Newton (2,609 yds, 20 tds) and second-leading receiver Frank Rice (13.5 yds/catch). Also, the Rams must replace one of the Mountain West's toughest hombres in linebacker and leading tackler Rick Crowell (125 tackles, 7 tfls, 3 ints), as well as fine safety John Howell (93 tackles, 11 tfls, 5 sacks).
Strengths: Running back Cecil Sapp averaged 5.6 yards per carry and scored 10 touchdowns in his way to gaining 888 yards in 2000. Also, last year's leading receiver Pete Rebstock returns for his senior year and will be helped by a group of sophomores who looked excellent in spring. Third leading tackler David Vickers (91 tackles, 10 tfls), and the Gallimore brothers return to the defensive backfield, where Justin was responsible for eight tfl's and three interceptions.
Why They Ain't In The Top 25: With the loss of quarterback Matt Newton and linebacker Rick Crowell, the Rams lose more than great numbers, but also guys who were steely competitors at key positions. Also, the Rams play their toughest games on the road.
What Could Get Them Into The Top 25: Lubick needs D.J Busch
or Brad Van Pelt (Michigan State transfer) to grab control of the
quarterback position, and they must survive early season battles against
Colorado in Denver and UNLV in Las Vegas. If these things happen,
they could end the season near the top ten and be playing in a mid-major
bowl.
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29) East Carolina
2000 Record: 8 - 4 (5 - 2)
Returning Starters: 6 offense; 9 defense
Last Season: The 2000 Pirates were a frustrating bunch. Sometimes they looked like they could play with anyone in the country, and at other times they seemed to be scared out of their wits. They had the talent on paper to compete with the likes of Virginia Tech and West Virginia, but seemed to lack the confidence they needed when they hit the field, and made some critical mistakes that cost them those games. For 2001, the Pirates return a lot of good players, and if they can convince themselves that they belong on the field with anyone in the country, they could end up rattling some cages.
Weaknesses: The Pirates lost a ton of pass catching talent in Keith Stokes, Marcellus Harris, Rashon Burns, and Jamie Wilson. Stokes was the leading receiver with 29 catches, and Harris averaged over 21 yards per catch. Also, leading pass rusher Devone Caybrooks (8 tfls, 7 sacks, 1 int) has also graduated.
Strengths: They return quarterback David Gerrard (2,332 yds, 19 tds) and leading rusher Leonard Henry (711 yds, 8 tds). But the defense is this team's greatest strength. It returns nine players from last season, including leading tackler and Lombardi Award Candidate Pernell Griffin (87 tackles in 8 games), second leading tackler Antwane Yelverton, Greg LeFever, Kevin Ward, John Williamson, and Christshawn Gilliam all at linebacker, giving them one of the best and deepest units in the country.
Why They Ain't In The Top 25: David Gerrard is a talented quarterback but sometimes tries to do too much, and the offense needs to find some pass catchers for him. Also, the Pirates have to prove that they can compete more closely with the more traditional powerhouses.
What Could Get Them Into The Top 25: They don't play as tough
a schedule as they did last season, so when they're favored they need
to win big, and they need to beat Syracuse and North Carolina, away
from Greenville.
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30) Temple
2000 Record: 4 - 7 (1 - 6)
Returning Starters: 10 offense; 10 defense
Last Season: The Temple student body and the Philly community is so bored by the Owl football program that they've been unable to meet the attendance requirements required by the Big East Conference. As a result, the other members of the conference have voted to kick the Owls out the door after this season. Well, help might be on the way in the form of 20 returning starters from a team that was better than its record indicates. Consider that the Owls lost to Maryland, West Virginia, and Pittsburgh by seven points or less, and that they ranked 33rd in the country in overall defense, and you might not think I'm so crazy for ranking them as high as I do. But if they're gonna live up to my expectations, they're gonna have to improve on offense, and take advantage of six home games.
Weaknesses: Temple loses one heck of an offensive lineman in tackle Mathias Nkwenti. Nkwenti was taken by Pittsburgh in the fourth round of the draft. Temple must find some big plays in the passing game, where the three leading receivers combined for only 1,159 yards and only five - that's right - five touchdowns.
Strengths: As I've already said, the Owls return 20 starters. They include quarterback Devin Scott (1,456 yds, 5 tds) and leading rusher Tanardo Sharps (1,038 yds, 10 tds, 5.2 yds/carry). Scott completed 63% of his passes. The defense lost its leading tackler to graduation, but returns linebacker Taylor Suman, a member of the Leonard's Losers Super Squad, who made 110 tackles, including 7 tfls. The front seven returns six players including Suman, and the defensive backfield returns a ton of experience including Terrance Leftwich, who led the team with four interceptions and 13 pass deflections.
Why The Ain't In The Top 25: We're talking about Temple. They're one of the losingest programs in football history, and it's tough to infuse a winning attitude with that type of foundation. Also, they need to find some big play potential in an offense that scored a total of eight touchdowns in the passing game.
What Could Get Them Into The Top 25: They have to win some
games that they ain't supposed to win. I see Boston College and Pittsburgh
as two potential upsets. Also, they have to win the games they should
win by more than just a few points. If they can find more offensive
fireworks, they might surprise some folks.
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31) UNLV
2000 Record: 8 - 5 (4 - 3)
Returning Starters: 7 offense; 7 defense
Last Season: The Rebels have been creeping up on the competition since John Robinson arrived on the scene just a few years ago, and they tied for third in the Mountain West Conference in 2000. Robinson has recruited a lot of good players to the program, both out of high school and the deep and talented western JUCO pool. In 2000, three of the Rebels' five losses came by a combined seven points, including a three-point loss in SEC country to Ole Miss, and a one point loss to Mountain West champs Colorado State on a blocked extra point. With four games being televised nationally on ESPN's Thursday and Friday night exclusives, UNLV has a chance to get some much-needed national exposure for its football program, but will need to succeed if it hopes to break out of its stereotype as a basketball school.
Weaknesses: The Rebels lost their top three running backs from last season in Jeremi Rudolph (1,062 yds, 9 tds), Kevin Brown (798 yds, 3 tds), and James Wofford (205 yds, 6.1/carry). Also gone is excellent right tackle John Greer. The Rebels have to improve on their passing defense, which ranked 67th in the country last season.
Strengths: Quarterback Jason Thomas is a stud, plain and simple. The USC transfer threw for 1,705 yards and 14 touchdowns last season, and ran for another 599 yards and 11 touchdowns. At six-four, 230 pounds, he's an exceptional athlete with the potential to dominate a game. The Rebels return for offensive linemen. They also return last season's top defensive players in strong safety and leading tackler Sam Brandon (82 tackles) and leading sacker Anton Palepoi (8 sacks, 11 tfls). Still, the Rebels need to get a better push from its other defensive linemen, where the next best pass rusher notched only 3.5 sacks.
Why They're Not In The Top 25: The Rebels need to prove that they can pull out wins in the big games. Last season they didn't do that, and there's no reason to believe that they'll be able to do it this season. Also, there are too many questions at running back.
What Could Get Them Into The Top 25: UNLV's first five games are brutal: Arkansas in Little Rock; Northwestern; Colorado State; Arizona in Tuscon; and BYU. You've got to admire their courage, but they're gonna need to show out in those games if they want to benefit from the tough schedule. But if they do show out, they could be cracking the Top 25 by late September.
32) Texas A&M
2000 Record: 7 - 5 (5 - 3)
Returning Starters: 6 offense; 5 defense
Last Season: It seems whenever the folks in College Station start calling for R.C. Slocum's head, the most tenured coach in the Big 12 manages to quiet the voices. In 2000, it wasn't so much the win and loss record that calmed the Aggie Faithful, but rather the way the team played that saved him his job. Last year's Aggies, as much as any team I can remember, left blood on the field each and every Saturday. Last season it was another big win against a highly favored Kansas State team and a four point loss to eventual National Champion Oklahoma that illustrated the Aggies' tough mindedness. But a blowout loss to Texas in Austin and losing to a woeful Colorado team didn't sit well with the A&M fans. Now, Slocum has brought in three new offensive coaches to add horsepower to an offense that was inconsistent last season, but the measuring stick is still Texas, and with the Longhorns picked to win the South by many pundits, they might be calling for Slocum's head again in December.
Weaknesses: The offense lost two big-time players in leading receiver Robert Ferguson (885yds and 6 tds) and monster fullback Ja'Mar Toombs, who left for the NFL early and went undrafted. Nosetackle Ron Edwards was a tough run stopper, and the entire linebacker corps has graduated, including leading tackler Brian Gamble (110 tackles, 5 tfls) and Cornelius Anthony (16 tfls). The defense needs to get more pressure on the passer.
Strengths: The offense returns its leading passer in junior Mark Farris. Farris, another ex-baseball guy, threw for 2,551 yards but only ten touchdowns last season. Also returning is leading rusher Richard Whitaker (455 yds, 6 tds) and second leading rusher Joe Weber (474 yds). The offensive line is lead by senior and three-year letterman Seth McKinney at center. Also, receiver Bethel Johnson could make up for the loss of Ferguson.
Why They Ain't In The Top 25: The Big 12 south is tough as bark already with Oklahoma and Texas, but then A&M plays an improving Colorado team in Boulder, K-State in Manhattan, and welcomes Notre Dame. Also, they need to replace a lot of linebackers and find a pass rush.
What Could Get Them Into The Top 25: If the Aggies can beat
Notre Dame, they're gonna spend the next week few weeks in the Top
25, after all, their following game is against Baylor. Then they might
fall back out after they visit Colorado.
33) Pittsburgh
2000 Record: 7 - 5 (4 - 3)
Returning Starters: offense 6; defense 10
Last Season: The Pittsburgh Panthers are trying like heck to get back to the Marino/Dorsett/Green/May glory days, and they took a few steps in that direction last season, but they still have a long way to go. The 2000 Panthers might have been 9 - 2, if not for an overtime loss to Syracuse, and three-point losses to North Carolina and Virginia Tech. For 2001, the Panthers will be playing in a new stadium that they'll be sharing with the Steelers, and they get the conference cream, Miami and Virginia Tech, at home, though the Miami game is too early in the season to take advantage of the cold Western Pennsylvania weather. Also in 2001, they drop North Carolina, and head to Notre Dame instead, so life doesn't get any easier out of conference. The Panthers are gonna need to beat one of the big boys, or have one of them slip up, if they want a shot of improving last season's third-place Big East finish. It ain't gonna be easy, but it could happen.
Weaknesses: The offense lost quarterback John Turman (2,135 yds, 18 tds), leading rusher Kevan Barlow (1,053 yds, 8 tds), and second leading receiver Latef Grim (595 yds, 2 tds). Also gone is center Jeff McCorley. And after defensive end Bryan Knight (11.5 sacks) there's a serious drop off in pass rushing ability.
Strengths: The offense returns All-American receiver Antonio Bryant (1,302 yds, 11 tds), but Bryant must prove that off-season problems won't effect his junior season. Senior David Priestley and sophomore Rod Rutherford are battling it out for the quarterback position, and there are several impressive talents competing to replace Barlow. The defense could be one of the best in the nation. Knight is a true star, with 11.5 sacks and an amazing 26 tfl's for 141 yards. Also returning is leading tackler Gerald Hayes (104 tackles, 10 tfl's) and leading cover man Shawn Robinson ( 6 ints, 18 defl). The Panther defense ranked 29th in the country overall in 2000, and 17th against the run - not too shabby..
Why They're Not In The Top 25: There are a lot of offensive concerns with a team that lost its starting quarterback and leading rusher, and the Panthers haven't shown that they can consistently beat the teams they should - witness last seasons losses to Syracuse and North Carolina.
What Could Get Them Into The Top 25: The Panthers need to win a scary early-season match-up with UAB, then get the next week off before facing Miami at home. This could be the ideal set up for the big upset win that would get them into the polls.
34) Auburn
2000 Record: 9 - 4 (6 - 2)
Returning Starters: 5 offense; 6 defense
Last Season: Tommy Tuberville's Tigers took a big step in the right direction in 2000, when they won the SEC West and played in the SEC Championship Game, but learned hard how many steps they have left when they were kicked in the behind by Florida 28 - 6, then lost by a field goal to Michigan in the Citrus Bowl. Despite hanging four in the loss column, including two to Florida, the Tigers beat a talented but morally depleted Crimson Tide team in Tuscaloosa, giving their fans crowing rights for the whole year. In 2001, Auburn gets a fairly favorable schedule, with LSU and Georgia their only tough away games. But they must beat Florida at home if they want to feel like they're making strides towards catching up with the SEC East powers.
Weaknesses: Quarterback Ben Leard (2,158 yds, 12 tds), running back Rudi Johnson (1,678 yds, 13 tds), fullback Heath Evans (6.2 yds/carry), and receiver Ronny Daniels are all gone, taking with them about 90% of the offensive ammo. Johnson and Daniels left early and went undrafted. Also, the Tigers lost cornerbacks Larry Casher and Rodney Crayton (5 ints, 15 defl), and safety Rob Pate.
Strengths: The Plainsmen will have one of the best offensive lines in the SEC, led by seniors Kendall Simmons, Hart McGarry, and Mike Pucillo. Daniel Cobb, a Georgia and JUCO transfer, is currently listed as the top quarterback, and is backed up by Jason Campbell, who was considered by some to have more potential than Brock Berlin coming out of high school. Carnell "Cadillac" Williams was thought by most analysts to be the premier high school running back in the south last season, and could make an immediate impact. Defensively, the Tigers return a lot of tough players on their front seven, including tackle DeMarco McNeil (66 tackles, 12 tfls) and linebacker Dontarrious Thomas (58 tackles, 4tfls).
Why They Ain't In The Top 25: The Tigers simply lost too much offense to be placed in the preseason top 25, though their defense might remind folks of the Pat Dye days.
What Could Get Them In The Top 25: They need Cobb or Campbell
to take control of the offense, and the defense needs to get more
pressure on opposing quarterbacks. An early game in Baton Rouge against
LSU will tell us a lot about this team. If they find a way to win
that one, they'll have a good shot at busting their way into the Top
25.
35) Purdue
2000 Record: 8 - 4 (6 - 2)
Returning Starters: 5 offense; 10 defense
Last Season: The 2000 Boilermakers did something that Purdue had only done once before thirty years in the past: They played in the Rose Bowl. Led by quarterback Drew Brees, the Boilermakers survived a three-point loss to Notre Dame, a two point loss to floundering Penn State, and a twenty-point upset loss to Michigan State, and knocked off perennial conference bullies Michigan and Ohio State to earn the golden road to Pasadena, where they ran into a tough bunch of Washington Huskies and lost 24 - 34. Now Brees is off to the San Diego Chargers, and Joe Tiller has to find a steadying hand for his offense, a young man better be ready to here these words over and over again next season: "Well, he's no Drew Brees…"
Weaknesses: The Boilermakers lost a ton on offense. Besides Brees, the conference's all-time leading passer, leading receiver Vinny Sutherland (1,014 yds, 13 tds) is gone, as are four of their starting offensive linemen, three of whom proved that they were NFL draft quality.
Strengths: The defense returns a lot of talent. Leading tackler Stuart Schweigert returns, along with a linebacker corps that was young and active last season. Also, defensive end Akin Ayodele (15 tfls, 9 sacks, 2 int) returns for his senior year, and is a legitimate All-American candidate, and with Shaun Phillips on the other side, the Boilermakers could have one of the best set of bookends in the country. The defensive backfield is led by redshirt freshman cornerback Antwaun Rogers, who picked off three balls during spring scrimmages and could draw comparisons to Rod Woodson. Also, the offense returns leading rusher Montrell Lowe (1,033 yds, 6 tds), but reports are that he's being pushed by several backups.
Why They Ain't In The Top 25: Because the best pure passer and leader in college football is gone, and it ain't gonna be easy to replace him. Also, the Boilermakers play both Ohio State and Michigan away.
What Could Get Them Into The Top 25: Their first game is against
Cincinnati on September 2 and their second game is against Notre Dame
on September 15. They have to make the most of the week off, and beat
Notre Dame if they want to sneak in to the Top 25.
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36) Arkansas
2000 Record: 6 - 6 (3 - 5)
Returning Starters: 7 offense, 8 defense
Last Season: Houston Nutt's Razorbacks had high hopes last season, after a 1999 campaign during which they showed some big game potential. But after three straight wins, including one against then highly-regarded Alabama, the Hogs couldn't seem to deal with the loss of their star running back Cedric Cobbs, and went on to lose five straight SEC games, including a 38 - 7 loss to Georgia, and a 63 - 20 massacre to Tennessee. Still, the Hogs ended the SEC season on a high note when they beat a tough Mississippi State team and won the annual blood match against LSU. Then they earned an invitation to the Las Vegas Bowl, where they lost to UNLV 31 - 14. For 2001, the Hogs have loaded up the schedule with tough non-conference games against UNLV, and a Central Florida team that beat Alabama last season, so they better have their brass knuckles on.
Weaknesses: The Razorbacks lost some defensive bad-boys in linebacker Quinton Caver (91 tackles, 10 tfls), defensive end Randy Garner (27 tackles), and linebacker J.J. Jones (64 tackles). Leading receiver Boo Williams (739 yds, 7 tds) jumped ship early and went undrafted, and third leading receiver Michael Snowden has used up his eligibility. The pass rush was weak last season, and it needs to improve for 2001.
Strengths: Cedric Cobbs has the talent to be one of the best running backs in the country, but needs to stay health. Also, Fred Talley and Brandon Holmes got plenty of carries in Cobb's absence, so depth is excellent at running back. Quarterback Robby Hampton returns for his junior season. Hampton, another ex-baseball player, completed 55% of his passes for 1,548 yards and 13 touchdowns in 2000. The Razorbacks will have four upper-classmen on the offensive line, which could go far in helping Cobbs have a productive season, and word out of Fayettville is that they've found some replacement receivers.
Why They're Not In The Top 25: Arkansas needs to find some emotional stability. Sure, they lost Cobb last season, but there was no excuse for losing to Georgia at home by thirty and to Tennessee by over forty.
What Could Get Them Into the Top 25: The Razorbacks open with
a tough one against UNLV in Little Rock, then they get Tennessee in
Fayetteville. UNLV was scheduled as a pushover, but they ain't, and
Tennessee is tough as a railroad spike. If the Hogs can beat UNLV,
they might jump into the bottom of the Top 25, and if they beat Tennessee,
they're gonna be riding a rocket ship.
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37) Southern Cal
2000 Record: 5 - 7 (2 - 6)
Returning Starters: 8 offense; 6 defense.
Last Season: Other than Alabama, I don't think there was a more disappointing team than the Trojans. Picked by some pundits to challenge for the PAC 10 title, USC didn't come close to living up to that potential, and at times seemed to be pussyfooting around the gridiron. After starting the season 3 - 0, including an opening game win in Happy Valley, the Trojans started conference play and were pushed all over the field. It wasn't their losses to Oregon State and Oregon that galled fans, after all those were two of the toughest teams in the league, but rather it was losses to the Arizona teams and lowly Washington State that caused the college football world to begin questioning the team's desire and toughness. They were able to save face slightly, however, when they beat UCLA 38 - 35. The disappointment cost Paul Hackett his job, and now it's Pete Carroll's chance to try a instill some pride in the USC Trojans.
Weaknesses: The Trojans have lost several players from its defense. Hardest hit is the front seven, where they lost first and third leading tacklers Zeke Moreno (103 tackles, 15 tfls) and Markus Steele (61 tackles, 17 tfls), and linemen Ennis Davis (10 tfls, 6 sacks) and the two Abduls (combined 53 tackles, 17 tfls, 4.5 sacks). Although the defense was thought to be a team strength before the 2000 season, they were soft and ranked 79th in the country in scoring defense.
Strengths: The Trojans return some talented skill players to the offense, led by quarterback Carson Palmer (2,914 yds, 16 tds) and leading rusher Sultan McCollough (1,163 yds), and they have deep talent behind McCollough. First and second leading receivers return in Kareen Kelly (796 yds, 4 tds) and Keary Colbert (480 yds, 3 tds). Also, Carroll has hired offensive guru Norm Chow to install a more explosive system.
Why They Ain't In The Top 25: Sure the Trojans have Norm Chow and bunch of offensive talent, but offensive skill's never been the problem. They need to get tough and play with pride if they want to win against the more physical football teams in the conference.
What Could Get Them Into The Top 25: The Trojans play a depleted
but physically tough Kansas State team on the second Saturday of the
season in Los Angeles. If they can pass that test, they might be on
their way to cracking the Top 25. But they better be ready to strap
it on, because K-State will hit 'em hard.
38) Notre Dame
2000 Record: 9 - 3
Returning Starters: 10 offense, 7 defense
Last Season: It was supposed to be Bob Davie's last stand. Either he survived a brutal early schedule and kept his job, or he lost three out of the first five and got canned. Well, the Irish won three out of their first five, including a heart stopper against Purdue. One of their losses came on the second week of the season to No. 1 ranked Nebraska in overtime, a game that no one gave the Irish a chance to win. Then the Irish went on a seven-game winning ride, and everyone thought, "That's it - Davie keeps his job." Then the winningest team in pigskin history was killed and buried by Oregon State, one of the losingest teams in pigskin history (.462 winning percentage), in the Fiesta Bowl by a score of 41 - 9. It was a humiliating loss for the Irish, who had to watch the Dennis Erickson-coached Beaers strut around the field. The result: Davie gets to keep his job, but he begins the 2001 season still standing on the end of the plank. Will he be able to stay dry? Only time will tell.
Weaknesses: The Irish graduated guard Mike Gandy, and tight ends Jabari Holloway, and Dan O'Leary. Also gone is flanker and second leading pass catcher Joey Getherall (19 yds/catch), who was a special teams star. Defensively they lost cornerback Brock Williams and safety Tony Driver. Driver was the team's second leading tackler.
Strengths: The defense returns some big-time players in linebackers Rocky Boiman (58 tackles, 8 tfl, 3.5 sacks) and Tyreo Harrison, and defensive ends Anthony Weaver (13 tfls, 8 sacks) and Ryan Roberts (5 tfls, 5 sacks). The offense returns a lot of talent at running back in Julius Jones (657 yds, 7 tds) and Tony Fisher (607 yds, 6 tds). There's all kinds of rumors about the quarterback situation, with last years leading passer Matt LoVecchio (980 yds and 11 tds in 8 games) as the leading candidate. The offensive line needs to replace some starters.
Why They Ain't In The Top 25: I read an editorial recently where the columnist said that since Davie took over the steering wheel, the Irish have had no offensive identity. I agree. The Irish need to find out what they do best, and stick to it. Until they accomplish that, they ain't in the Top 25. Also, the Irish have a brutal schedule.
What Could Get Them Into The Top 25: I look at the Irish schedule,
and I don't see a break: At Nebraska, at Purdue, Michigan State, at
Texas A&M, Pittsburgh, West Virginia, USC, at Boston College,
Tennessee, Navy, at Stanford. You've got to hand it to them, unless
they get their head handed to them first. If they beat Nebraska, or
win three of their first four, they're coming through the door, but
that's a BIG if.
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39) Wisconsin
2000 Record: 9 - 4 (4 - 4)
Returning Starters: 5 offense; 5 defense
Last Season: It was a bizarre season for the Badgers. They started in August with high hopes and a high ranking - in fact many pundits picked them as a Top 5 team and a Rose Bowl contender. Then there was a scandal regarding some Wisconsin athletes, football players included, being given special discounts on sneakers at a Madison-area athletic store. The inappropriate discounts resulted in a fistful of Badgers being suspended for a number of games,. The Badgers won their first three games, by beating a tough Western Michigan team, beating Oregon 27 - 23, and squeaking by Cincinnati by three. Then the Big Ten season started, and the Badgers fell apart for three straight games, when they lost to Northwestern, Michigan, and Ohio State, and answered, "No," to the preseason question, "Can the Badgers hang with the Big Ten big boys?" With their eight regular-season wins they were invited to the Sun Bowl where they beat UCLA again.
Weaknesses: The Badgers lost a ton of good players from last year's team. On offense they lost leading rusher Michael Bennett (1,683 yds, 11 tds), leading receiver Chris Chambers (813 yds, 5 tds), and offensive linemen Casey Rabach, Bill Ferrario, and Dave Costa. There's a lot missing from the defensive side of the ball, too. All-American and Thorp Award winner Jamar Fletcher (7 ints for 179 yds) is gone from the defensive backfield, and they graduated linebacker Roger Knight (93 tackles, 8 tfls), and safety Jason Doering (97 tackles, 3 ints).
Strengths: The Badgers return quarterback Brooks Bollinger (1,479 yds, 10 tds), and experienced backup Jim Sorgi, who played in five games last season. Also returning is second-leading receiver Lee Evans (634 yds, 19.2 yds/catch). Defensively, the Badgers return leading tackler Nick Griesen (146 tackles, 14 tfls, 6 sacks), defensive back Joey Boes (58 tackles), as does All-American Candidate Wendell Bryant (48 tackls, 11 tfls, 6 sacks) as the leader of the defensive line.
Why They're Not In The Top 25: The Badgers have too many gaping holes to fill on both sides of the football. Add to this that they're thinking of running the spread offense in the land of 400-pound offensive linemen and run-it-up-the-gut football, and there's just two tons worth of unknowns.
What Could Get Them Into The Top 25: With match-ups against
Virginia and at Oregon during their first two weeks, the Badgers are
starting the season with a bang. If they get by Oregon, I'm gonna
have to revise my opinion of this football team, but I don't think
there's much chance that it's gonna happen.
40) Mississippi
2000 Record: 7 - 5 (4 - 4)
Returning Starters: 6 offense; 5 defense
Last Season: The Rebels believed they could challenge for the SEC West crown in 2000. After all, they returned Heisman Candidate Deuce McCallister and senior quarterback Romero Miller. But they had to start playing catch up early, when Auburn beat them in Oxford during the second Saturday of the season behind a big game by their big back Rudi Johnson. It was an important game, because it revealed what would be Mississippi's problem for the rest of the season. A season-ending injury to All-SEC middle linebacker Eddie Strong, and an undersized defensive line meant that most of the teams in the SEC were able to run at will over the Ole Miss defense. The defense allowed almost five yards per carry, and 178 yards per game. In addition to their defensive trouble, McCallister spent much of the season running on a bum ankle that seriously hampered his cutting ability and his explosiveness. Add to that a less than ideal season by quarterback Romero Miller, and you have a pretty bitter tasting recipe.
Weaknesses: The Rebels lost their two offensive stars to graduation in Miller and McCallister. Miller didn't have a great season last year (2,012 yds, 18 tds), but he brought a lot of big game experience and toughness to the team. McCallister led the team in rushing with 767 yards and despite his injured ankle, had a real nose for the end zone with 14 touchdowns. The Rebel defensive line has the same problem it did last season, where it's projected starters average only 260 pounds.
Strengths: Despite losing Miller and McCallister, Eli Manning and Joe Gunn have the potential to fill those big shoes admirably. There's no need to review Manning's pedigree, but don't forget that he played in six games last season, so he has some real-world experience. Gunn played in eleven games last season, and while he only averaged 3 yards per carry, will gain a lot by being the featured back. Manning will have some excellent receivers in split end Chris Collins, super-speedy flanker Omar Rayford (12.1 yds/catch), wide out Jamie Armstrong, and tight end Doug Zeigler. Also, the offensive line returns plenty of experience. The biggest added strength to the defense will be linebacker Strong, who has All-SEC chops.
Why They Ain't In The Top 25: It's not what the Rebels lost that's keeping them out of the Top 25, but what they haven't gained, which is weight along the defensive front. They need to prove that they can keep the opposition from running the ball before they can improve on last season.
What Could Get Them In The Top 25: The Rebels are gonna be
eating quite a few cupcakes in 2001, with games against Murray State,
Arkansas State, and Middle Tennessee, but they have to go to Auburn
and win, and beat Vandy in Oxford by a lot if they want to start knocking
on the Top 25.
41) Michigan State
2000 Record: 5 - 6 (2 - 6)
Returning Starters: 6 offense, 6 defense
Last Season: Spartan fans had to be frustrated as heck with their team's rollercoaster effort. With early season wins over tough opponents like Marshall and Notre Dame, Michigan State broke out of the gate with high expectations. Then they entered Big Ten play and fell flat on their faces. It's one thing to lose to Ohio State and Michigan, always the bad boys of the league, but to flame out against the likes of Iowa and a depleted Penn State team - well, that was a little too much for anyone to take. The problem seemed to be a lack of consistent leadership at quarterback, where Head Coach Bobby Williams was forced to play both freshman sensation Jeff Smoker and veteran Ryan Van Dyke in nearly equal parts due to injury. Also, they had nearly zero big play capability on both sides of the ball. It was the team's first year under Williams, after Nick Saban left for LSU, but Williams was a long-time assistant, so that excuse rang hollow in 2000. With a ton of offensive talent returning in 2001, these Spartans have the opportunity to break out of their mediocrity and make some noise in the league.
Weaknesses: The offensive line has size but is a little inexperienced with two sophomores and a redshirt freshman. Also, like Mississippi, the Michigan State defensive line will be small, but they have some depth.
Strengths: The offense returns a lot of skill. Smoker (1,365 yds, 6 tds) will be backed up by Van Dyke (796 yds, 4 tds), but one of them needs to take charge of the offense. Of course running back T.J. Duckett proved he has All-American potential when he gained 1,353 yards and scored seven touchdowns last season. There's plenty of receiving talent in enormous split end Marcus Waters (6-4, 230), flanker Herb Haygood, and tight end Chris Baker. The league-leading defense features Butkus Award Candidate linebacker Josh Thornhill (114 tackles, 8 tfls) and second leading tackler safety Thomas Wright (107 tackles). Also, cornerback Cedric Henry returns (5 ints for 118 yds).
Why They Ain't In The Top 25: The Spartans underachieved last season and lacked play-makers on both sides of the ball. Consider that the entire receiving corps caught only 10 touchdowns, and defense collected only 17 sacks. That's pretty poor, and it has to change.
What Could Get Them Into the Top 25: If the Spartans start
2 - 0 and beat Notre Dame in South Bend on September 22, they're gonna
get some Top 25 consideration. They don't play Ohio State and they
get Michigan at home, so they have a chance to make a statement, but
will they seize the opportunity?
42) West Virginia
2000 Record: 7 - 5 (3 - 4)
Returning Starters: 4 offense: 9 defense
Last Season: The West Virginia Mountaineers said farewell to their old coach Don Nehlen, and he's gonna be missed for sure. But it was time for some new coaching blood in Morgantown, and they got a powerful transfusion in former Clemson offensive coordinator Rich Rodriguez. The Mountaineers were all over the place last season, but suffered particularly bad during a three-game stretch when they lost at Virginia Tech, then to Notre Dame and Syracuse at home. Still, the Mountaineers got a bowl bid, and beat Ole Miss for their Ole Coach by a score of 49 - 38. While Rodriguez is considered an offensive guru, it was defensive inconsistency that hurt West Virginia the most in 2000. They ranked 84th in scoring defense and that his to improve if they want to compete better in 2001.
Weaknesses: The Mountaineers lost a lot on offense. Only one offensive lineman, senior guard Brad Knell, returns any starting experience. Second leading receiver Khory Ivy (806 yds, 17 yds/catch) is gone. He led the team in touchdown catches. Enormous and tough-running fullback Wes Ours has also graduated.
Strengths: The offense returns leading passer Brad Lewis (1,819 yds, 13 tds), leading runner Avon Cobourne (1,018 yds, 7 tds), and leading receiver Antonio Brown, though word out of the hills is that redshirt freshman Rasheed Marshall is challenging Lewis for the starting QB job. The defense returns nearly all it's top players, but must find a way to stop the big play and keep the opposition out of the end zone. Defensive back Shawn (114 tackles) was the team's leading tackler - not a good sign - and he returns for his senior year. Other returning players include leading interceptor Richard Bryant (5 ints for 145 yds) and linebackers Kyle Kayden (109 tackles, 3 sacks) and Grant Wiley. The defensive line combined for only 31 sacks last season, and needs to find a way to get more pressure on the passer in 2001.
Why They Ain't In The Top 25: The Mountaineer defense needs to prove that they can keep some folks out of the end zone, and both the offensive and defensive lines have way too many question marks. But this is a team that has a lot of skill coming back to the offense and a new and innovative head coach, so who knows?
What Could Get Them Into The Top 25: The Mountaineers' first four games are less than difficult, but there are a few potential stumbling blocks against BC and Maryland. Still, the big test starts in October, when they welcome Virginia Tech to Morgantown, then go to Miami and Notre Dame. If they beat Tech and are 5 - 0 at that point, they'll be climbing the charts.
43) Penn State
2000 Record: 5 - 7 (4 - 4)
Returning Starters: 5 offense; 6 defense
Last Season: After the second week of the 2000 season it was self-evident that Joe Pa wasn't gonna be getting carried off the field by his team with his 323rd win and Bear Bryant's record in the rearview mirror. It wasn't necessarily that the Nittany Lions were 0 - 2 at that point, having lost to a lazy and soft USC team and to a tough-as-rocks Toledo team; rather, it was the total discombobulation of the offense, and the way that the defense seemed so weakened by the graduation of Lavar Arrington and Courtney Brown. Then the Nittany Lions got it together in week three to beat Louisiana Tech 67 - 7, and few of the football pundits saw some hope for these Lions. But as time would tell, all that game proved was how terrible Louisiana Tech was - it didn't say anything about the Lions' improving fortunes. With the graduation of quarterback Rashard Casey, Joe Pa can now get back to doing what his teams do best: run, drop-back pass, and play sound defense. I for one am looking forward to watching Penn State get back to its football foundation, and to watching Joe Pa get that ride on his player's shoulders.
Weaknesses: The offense loses Rashard Casey (2,001 yds, 14 tds), and leading receiver Tony Stewart (451 yds, 4 tds). Also gone is excellent tackle Kareem McKenzie and fullback Mike Cerimele. On the defensive side of the ball the Lions most active player cornerback Bhahow Jue (3 ints, 13 defl) is headed to the NFL, as is safety and leading tackler James Boyd. Linebackers Aaron Gatten and Justin Kurpeikis are also gone.
Strengths: The offense returns some skill in leading rusher Eric McCoo (692 yds, 5 tds) and receiver Eddie Drummond. McCoo is backed up by Larry Johnson and Omar Easy, either of whom could end up being the starter. Drummond has big play potential, and junior wide-out Bryant Johnson got rave reviews this spring. Matt Seneca will be the starting quarterback. Seneca threw around fifty passes last season.
Why They Ain't In The Top 25: A Penn State team without a 1,000 yard rusher just ain't right, and it's the main reason the offense ranked 84th in the country in total offense. They didn't run the ball last season, and I don't see any reason for things to be different in 2001.
What Could Get Them Into The Top 25: With their first three games against Miami, at Virginia, and against Wisconsin, and a schedule that includes Michigan, Ohio State, and Northwestern things just ain't gonna be easy for these Nittany Lions. If they hang tough against Miami, and beat Virginia and Wisconsin, they'll get some Top 25 consideration.
44) North Carolina
2000 Record: 6 - 5 (3 - 5)
Returning Starters: 6 offense; 6 defense
Last Season: The Tar Heels got roughed up last season by the ACC elite, and need to beat one or two of them if they want to make 2001 a positive experience. During a four week stretch last season, North Carolina fell to Georgia Tech, arch rival NC State and Clemson all in Chapel Hill, then fell to Virginia in Charlottesville. Yet they beat a good Pittsburgh team in Pittsburgh, and roughed up Marshall, as well. So, what was the problem with the Tar Heels? Well, it was more a lack of toughness and heart than it was a lack of talent. For 2001 new head coach John Bunting takes over the reins of a team that has some good players in Julius Peppers and Ryan Sims on the defense, and Ronald Curry on the offense. Bunting's challenge will be to convince them that they can beat the likes of Florida State and Georgia Tech. If he can do that, the Heels might come out and surprise some folks in 2001.
Weaknesses: The defense lost two excellent linebackers in leading tackler Brandon Spoon (131 tackles, 13 tfls) and second leading tackler Sedrick Hodge (82 tackles, 16 tfls, 7 sacks). Also gone are tight ends Alge Crumpler and Dauntae Finger. The defensive backfield only made seven interceptions last season, and the Tar Heels ranked 80th in the country in passing defense.
Strengths: The Tar Heels have a lot of playmakers on both sides of the ball. Curry has great talent at quarterback, where he threw for 2,325 yards and 11 touchdowns, but would help the team if he could raise his completion percentage a few points. Leading rusher Brandon Russell (508 yards, 3 tds) returns, as does second leading rusher Willie Parker (355 yards, 4 tds). Both of these players were freshmen last season. Also, running back Andre Williams has received rave reviews coming out of spring. The offensive line returns two starters in center Adam Metts and guard Isaac Morford. They also return leading receiver Bosley Allen and big play man Kory Bailey. On the defensive side of the ball, the nation's leading sack man Julius Peppers returns (64 tackles, 24 tfls, 15 sacks), as does all ACC candidate at defensive tackle Ryan Sims (9 tfls, 6 sacks).
Why They Ain't In The Top 25: There's just no way to tell how the team's gonna respond to new head coach John Bunting. With two of their three opening games against Oklahoma and against Texas, these Heels are gonna have to grow up fast, and it ain't gonna be easy.
What Could Get Them Into The Top 25: If the Tar Heels head
into the their September 29th showdown with NC State 3 - 2, and having
beaten the teams they should beat and upset somebody in the process,
then knock off NC State, East Carolina, and Virginia, then theyll
be busting down the door. But that's a tall drink of water.
45) Iowa State
2000 Record: 9 - 3 (5 - 3)
Returning Starters: 6 offense, 4 defense
Last Season: It was a great season for seeing some new football powers begin to emerge. The big stories of course were South Carolina and Oregon State, but lost in the shuffle was Iowa State. The Cyclones finished third in the Big 12 Northern Division, behind K-State and Nebraska, and took it to a tough Pittsburgh team in the Insight.Com Bowl. How have the Cyclones been able to improve so much? Well, Coach Dan McCarney has loaded the roster with guys from Compton, California, Tarpon Springs, Florida, Lyons, Georgia, and Round Rock, Texas, and it's brought a lot of speed to a used-to-be plodding team.
Weaknesses: Quarterback Sage Rosenfels (2,298 yds, 8 tds) has graduated. The defense lost a bunch of linemen, but was ranked 88th in country in total defense, so might need an infusion of different players.
Strengths: Though Rosenfels has graduated, there's plenty of excitement in Ames about quarterback Seneca Wallace, who completed 7-of-11 passes for 124 yards and one touchdown and rushed for 72 yards on eight carries and another score to lead the Cardinal squad to a 35-30 win over the White team in the Iowa State spring game. The offense returns first and second leading rushers Ennis Haywood (1,237 yds, 8 tds) and Michael Wagner (422 yds, 5 tds) to an offense that ranked in the top twenty in rushing. Flanker Jamal Montgomery brings big-play potential to the receiving corp, and the line is anchored by seniors Marcel Howard and Cory Hannen at tackles.
Why They Ain't In The Top 25: Even though Wallace has received rave reviews, the loss of Rosenfels will still hurt the Cyclones. He was a tough leader and had excellent numbers. Also, there a ton of defensive questions that need to be answered.
What Could Get Them Into The Top 25: With their first four games against Northern Iowa, Iowa, Ohio in Athens, and Baylor, the Cyclones have a good shot at heading into the Nebraska game undefeated. You can't expect them to beat Nebraska in Lincoln, but if they hang tough, then beat Missouri in Colombia the next week, they're gonna be spending some time in the polls.
46) Illinois
2000 Record: 5 - 6 ( 2 - 6)
Returning Starters: 7 offense; 6 defense
Last Season: The Fighting Illini had a tough season in 2000. They started 3 - 0, then Michigan came to town and beat them 35 - 31, when the zebras blew a fumble call that should have gone in Illinois' favor. The Illini never seemed to recover from the disappointment of that game, and went on to lose six of their next eight, including blow-out losses to Minnesota and arch rival Northwestern, and some close calls to Michigan State and Penn State. Ranked 93rd in the country in total defense, the Fighting Illini couldn't keep even Penn State from hanging 39 points on them, and ended up finishing in the bottom third of the Big Ten and going bowl-less after a promising 1999 season.
Weaknesses: The defense has to improve from last season if the Illini want a shot at hanging tough in the league. Defensive tackle Jason Ebert is gone as is defensive end Fred Wakefield (20 tfls 9 sacks). Illinois also graduated cornerback Ty Waller and linebacker Michael Young (56 tackles) from the defense. On the offensive side of the ball, the Illini lost tackle Marques Sullivan and fullback Jameel Cook (second leading receiver).
Strengths: The offensive returns nearly all of it skill players. Quarterback Kurt Kittner (1,982 yds, 18 tds) returns for his senior year and has looked good this spring. Leading rusher Antonio Harris (721 yds, 7 tds) and second leading rusher Rocky Harvey (618 yds, 3 tds) are one of the best one-two punches in the country. Receivers Greg Lewis, Aaron Moorhead, and Walter Young all return, as does tight end Brian Hodges, so Kittner has plenty of talent around him. The offensive line should be solid. The defense needs to find a way to keep teams from scoring. They only racked up 18 sacks last season, and their leading sack man has graduated. Still, leading tackler linebacker Jerry Shumacher (95 tackles) and second leading tackler safety Muhammad Abdullah (83 tackles) return, which should help some.
Why They Ain't In The Top 25: The Illini haven't shown psychologically strength. I realize they were disappointed that the refs stole the Michigan game, but they seemed to let that one call curdle their whole season. Also, their defense needs to improve a lot if they want to have chance to win the Big Ten this season.
What Could Get Them Into The Top 25: There just aren't any
easy games on the Illini schedule, and they're gonna have to upset
some folks if they want to bust into the Top 25 in 2001.
47) Syracuse
2000 Record: 6 - 5 (4 - 3)
Returning Starters: 8 offense, 6 defense
Last Season: The Orangemen were hard to figure in 2000. With losses to Cincinnati and East Carolina, and wins over Pittsburgh and West Virginia, and a near win over Virginia Tech, they were up and down again and again. Like a lot of inconsistent teams, they were outstanding in some areas and terrible in others. They had one of the country's premier running games, ranking 18th in the country, and a hard-nosed defense, also ranking 18th in the country. But their offensive balance was terrible (They ranked 92nd in passing offense) and their turnover margin was a measly .55, making it one of the worst in the country. Now they have to find help at quarterback, where last year's starter was injured in spring workouts.
Weaknesses: Syracuse lost some pretty talented players from that highly-ranked defense in cornerback Will Allen (1st round draft pick), defensive tackle Eric Downing (9 tfls), linebacker Marlon Greenwood (98 tackles), second-leading sacker Duke Pettijohn (14 tfls, 7.5 sacks), and forth-leading tackler Rick Simpkins. Also gone is last year's leading rusher Dadrian Brown (1,031 yds, 9 tds) from a powerful running attack. The offense might also be in deeper trouble depending on the condition of last year's starting quarterback Troy Nunes, injured in spring practice.
Strengths: The offensive line returns for seniors on the interior as well as senior tight end Graham Manley. Enormous quarterback R.J. Anderson is listed as the starter, with the injured Nunes listed behind him. Anderson got playing time in nine games last season, but completed only 46% of his passes compared with Nunes' 61%. James Mungro is listed as the starter at tailbak, where he gained almost 900 yards last season and averaged 6.9 yards per carry. Maurice Jackson and David Tyree both have good experience at receiver. The defense lost some studs but returns some, too. Leading tackler Clifton Smith returns at linebacker, and linebacker J.R. Johnson is a senior. Also, leading sacker Dwight Freeney (18 tfls, 13 sacks) will be tough at right defensive end. And the defensive backfield returns players with starting experience.
Why They Ain't In The Top 25: The strength of last year's team was in its defense and its running game. Well, it lost a bunch of defensive players to graduation, and its leading rusher. Also, with Nunes being injured, and Anderson only completing 46% of his passes last season, the passing game doesn't look likely to improve.
What Could Get Them Into The Top 25: Well, their first two games are against Georgia Tech and Tennessee. If they win those games, they're gonna have to be rocketing up the polls. If they win one, then beat Central Florida and East Carolina the next two weeks, they're climbing up into the upper bunk. Two more problems for the Orangemen: They meet Miami and Virginia Tech away.
48) Alabama-Birmingham
2000 Record: 7 - 4 (3 - 4)
Returning Starters: 6 offense, 10 defense
Last Season: Looking at the wins and losses doesn't really tell the whole story of what UAB did last season. Everybody knows that they beat LSU in Baton Rouge and East Carolina in Greenville, but what most folks around the country don't realize is that two of the Blazers' losses were by only three points, including a loss to Southern Miss in overtime. UAB proved that you can compete with anyone when you play tough defense, and that's what UAB did with the 11th ranked defense in the country. But after finishing the 2000 season ranked 94th in total offense, the Blazers are going to the one-back no-huddle set to see if they can stir things up, and if they can, they could really shock some people this fall.
Weaknesses: The offense was pretty awful last season in both scoring offense and passing offense. They were able to run the ball effectively, but not great. The offense losses leading Percy Coleman and Undrae Crosby, and third-leading rusher Carl Fair. Also, the offensive line features sophomore Wilbert Hamilton and freshman Andy Galloway at tackles - a position that would definitely benefit from more experience.
Strengths: The offense returns quarterback Jeff Aaron (1,135 yds, 5 tds), but no one knows how he'll react to the new offense. Also returning is leading rusher Jegil Dugger (852 yds, 5 tds). The receivers will feature Willie Quinnie at flanker. Quinnie didn't get many opportunities last season but showed big-play potential by average 17 yards per catch. Also there's a battle between Jeff Tippetts and Shane Pearson for the tight end position. But the defense is the real strength of this team, as they return ten starters to the nation's 11th ranked unit. Free-safety and leading tackler Adri Singleton returns to the defensive backfield, and leading sack man Bryan Thomas (16 tfls, 10 sacks) returns to defensive end. In fact the Blazers return three players with double figures in TFLs. The linebacker unit is small but tough and active.
Why They Ain't In The Top 25: There wasn't enough horsepower on offense last season, and even though they're bring in a new system, there's nothing to say that things are gonna improve.
What Could Get Them Into The Top 25: UAB plays FSU on the second weekend of the season, then goes to Pittsburgh. It's doubtful that they can beat FSU, but anything is possible, and if they're good enough and lucky enough, they're gonna crash the Top 25 party.
49) Indiana
2000 Record: 3 - 8 (2 - 6)
Returning Starters: 8 offense, 8 defense
Last Season: With an offense that averaged over 30 points per game, you'd think that the win/loss record would be a little more impressive, but you ain't gonna win many games when you're ranked 112th in scoring defense and giving up an average of 39 points per game. With those kinds of numbers, I expected that all the off-season noise coming out of the Hoosier football offices would be about improving the defense, but the big news instead was about moving quarterback Antwaan Randel El to receiver. Randle El, who ranked eleventh in the country in total offense, has been moved to receiver/flanker in an attempt to make him more of a scoring threat. That's all well and good, but what's coach Cam Cameron gonna do about stopping some folks in 2001?
Weaknesses: The key loss to the defense, if there are any, is leading tackler safety Johnny Smith. Smith racked up 92 tackles, almost twenty more than the second leading tackler. Also gone is defensive tackle Paul Mandina. On the offensive side of the ball, the Hoosiers lost their first and second leading receivers, Versie Gaddis (554 yds, 3 tds) and Jerry Dorsey (514 yds, 3 tds) respectively. Both of them had big play potential, averaging nearly 20 yards per catch.
Strengths: The offense proved that it could put up big numbers with Randle El as the trigger man, and word out of Bloomington is he's still gonna be carrying the gun every now and then. The primary quarterback is gonna be Tommy Jones, who played sparingly in 7 games last season, but who's received good reviews in spring practice. Also returning is second leading rusher Levron Williams (821 yds, 7 yds/carry, 10 tds). The Hoosiers need to find some pass catchers other than Randle El. The Hoosiers only gave up nine sacks last season, but that was with Randle El at quarterback. Jones is far less mobile at 6-3, 240 pounds. The defense returns plenty of starters from last season, including linebacker Justin Smith, who was second on the team in tackles, and first in tfl's with 14. Still, the defense needs to find a way to get more pressure on the quarterback if they want to be more successful this season, and the defensive backfield needs to step it up, where they only made four pass interceptions.
Why They Ain't In The Top 25: It's a questionable experiment moving the most exciting player in college football from quarterback, where he's been playing for the past three seasons, to wide out. Also, there's a lot of work that needs to be done on defense.
What Could Get Them Into The Top 25: If the Hoosiers knock of N.C. State in their opening game, then beat Kentucky and Utah, they're gonna be rolling heading into a home match-up with Ohio State. If they beat Ohio State, they'll be in serious contention for a Top 25 spot.