NCAA Football Simulation Dynasty (Take 2)

[kblu54]

It's baaaaaaaaaaaaaaaack

Rosters completed, research done, and everything is ready to go. This dynasty will be very similar to the last one, with in-depth coverage, storylines and all the other goodies it came with.

I will be controlling 12 teams: Alabama, Florida, Florida State, LSU, Michigan, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Texas, USC, Virginia Tech and West Virginia. This is just for discipline purposes and depth chart management. I will not be affecting recruiting of any sort or affecting any game outcomes.

Here are some new wrinkles to watch out for in Take 2:

1) More in-depth coverage

I will be trying to make the sim storylines more realistic and fun to follow, I might even throw in some analysis columns and such. Just to keep things interesting.

2) Junior College players

Doing research, I discovered a lot of junior college transfers that became starters for teams in 2008 and 2009. I decided that since they were important to their respective teams (and the ensuing draft classes), I have included many junior college players. So players like LeGarrette Blount, Terrance Cody, etc. will not be in depth charts for the 2007 season but will be available next season when the rosters reset.

3) More realistic outcomes/draft classes

One of the biggest reasons why I stalled the last thread was because I was very disappointed in how the first season turned out and I was VERY disappointed with the draft class it produced. I have spent an inordinate amount of time changing ratings, getting rid of non-important players and other items to make sure the teams perform the way they did in 2007, 2008 and beyond. Also, I am hoping the draft classes turn out a little more realistic. Really, my hope is that players that actually got drafted in real life do go to the Madden sim.

...and last but not least...

4) HTML

Yes folks, I have learned how to create simple tables in HTML code. I want this thread to be much more readable, so I finally put forth the effort to learn and create templates for the Top 25, game of the week reports, etc. It should make things much easier to follow and pretty to look at

I will be starting shortly. Hope you enjoy this! Thanks so much for the patience!

Note to moderators: Please DO NOT delete my past threads. I need the old information for this thread. Thanks!!!

[kblu54]

USC, Michigan predicted to contend for BCS National Title in 2007-08
NCAA Football News

Despite coming off their first National Championship in nearly 10 years, the Florida Gators do not find themselves at the top of the first Coaches Poll to begin the 2007-2008 season. That honor instead goes to the USC Trojans, coming off an impressive 32-18 Rose Bowl victory over Michigan and bringing in a solid recruit class.

USC garnered 33 first-place votes to claim the top spot in the Preseason Coaches Poll, and will be paced this season by senior QB John David Booty and a ferocious defense. Michigan, despite losing the Trojans last season, begin the year at #2 with a solid squad returning. The Wolverines will be led by a slew of great seniors, including RB Mike Hart and QB Chad Henne.

Rounding out the Top 5 is LSU, Florida and Texas. LSU finished 11-2 last season and crushed Notre Dame 41-14 in the Sugar Bowl, and will be led by a tough, experienced defense. Florida is the defending champions, but lost a lot of seniors. Still, the Gators have a ton of talented youngsters, including highly-touted sophomore QB Tim Tebow, and should be in the running for the title. The Longhorns fell behind rival Oklahoma in the Big 12 standings and squeaked past Iowa 26-24 in the Alamo Bowl, but they bring back a talented squad that should be one of the best teams in the Big 12 and the nation this season.

The complete Preseason Top 25 is below.

Preseason Top 25 Coaches Poll

Rank	Team	2006-2007 Record
1	USC (40)	(11-2)
2	Michigan (21)	(11-2)
3	LSU	(11-2)
4	Florida	(13-1)
5	Texas	(10-3)
6	West Virginia	(11-2)
7	Wisconsin	(12-1)
8	Oklahoma	(11-3)
9	Virginia Tech	(10-3)
10	Arkansas	(10-4)
11	Louisville	(12-1)
12	Ohio State	(12-1)
13	Auburn	(11-2)
14	Nebraska	(9-5)
15	Tennessee	(9-4)
16	California	(10-3)
17	Penn State	(9-4)
18	Georgia	(9-4)
19	UCLA	(7-6)
20	Rutgers	(11-2)
21	Florida State	(7-6)
22	TCU	(11-2)
23	Boise State	(13-0)
24	Texas A&M	(9-4)
25	Boston College	(10-3)

[kblu54]

McFadden looks to run away with Heisman
NCAA Football News

Arkansas's junior RB Darren McFadden will open the 2007-08 season as the #1 player to watch. McFadden helped lead the Razorbacks to a 10-4 mark and the SEC West title last season, but should be one of the most dangerous players on the field this season.

Joining McFadden on the Preseason Heisman Watch is USC senior QB John David Booty, Louisville senior QB Brian Brohm, senior QB Colt Brennan of Hawaii and West Virginia junior RB Steve Slaton.

Preseason Heisman Watch

Rank	Player	2006-2007 Season Stats
1	Darren McFadden, RB - Arkansas	284 att. - 1,647 yds, 14 TDs; 11 rec. - 149 yds, 1 TD
2	John David Booty, QB - USC	269 - 436 - 3,347 yds, 29 TDs
3	Brian Brohm, QB - Louisville	199 - 313 - 3,049 yds, 16 TDs
4	Colt Brennan, QB - Hawai'i	406 - 559 - 5,549 yds, 58 TDs
5	Steve Slaton, RB - West Virginia	248 att. - 1,744 yds, 16 TDs; 27 rec. - 360 yds, 2 TDs

Surprisingly, Booty was excluded from the Preseason All-American lists. The good news for McFadden, Brohm, Brennan and Slaton is they were not. McFadden was actually a 1st Team pick as a returner, while Slaton occupies a 2nd Team slot. Brohm and Brennan grabbed the 1st and 2nd Team QB selections, respectively.

As for the rest of the nation's expected All-Americans, the list is as follows.

Preseason 1st Team All-American (Offense)

QB:	Brian Brohm, Louisville
RB:	Mike Hart, Michigan
FB:	Owen Schmitt, West Virginia
WR:	Mario Manningham, Michigan
WR:	Marcus Monk, Arkansas
WR:	Limas Sweed, Texas
TE:	Martin Rucker, Missouri
C:	Jeff Byers, USC
OG:	Hercules Satele, Hawai'i
OG:	Will Arnold, LSU
OT:	Barry Richardson, Clemson
OT:	Gosder Cherilus, Boston College

Preseason 1st Team All-American (Defense)

DE:	Derrick Harvey, Florida
DE:	Tim Jamison, Michigan
DT:	Sedrick Ellis, USC
DT:	Glenn Dorsey, LSU
MLB:	Vince Hall, Virginia Tech
MLB:	Robert James, Arizona State
OLB:	Xavier Adibi, Virginia Tech
CB:	Aqib Talib, Kansas
CB:	Antoine Cason, Arizona
FS:	Thomas DeCoud, California
SS:	Tom Zbikowski, Notre Dame

Preseason 1st Team All-American (Special Teams)

K:	Art Carmody, Louisville
P:	Andrew Larson, California
RET:	Darren McFadden, RB - Arkansas

Preseason 2nd Team All-American (Offense)

QB:	Colt Brennan, Hawai'i
RB:	Ray Rice, Rutgers
RB:	Steve Slaton, West Virginia
FB:	Mike Cox, Georgia Tech
WR:	D.J. Hall, Alabama
WR:	Lavelle Hawkins, California
TE:	Fred Davis, USC
C:	Antoine Caldwell, Alabama
OG:	Tad Miller, Boise State
OG:	Shannon Tevaga, UCLA
OT:	Sam Baker, USC
OT:	Eric Young, Tennessee

Preseason 2nd Team All-American (Defense)

DE:	Wallace Gilberry, Alabama
DE:	Quentin Groves, Auburn
DT:	Frank Okam, Texas
DT:	Andre Fluellen, Florida State
MLB:	Rey Maualuga, USC
OLB:	Dan Connor, Penn State
OLB:	Steve Octavien, Nebraska
CB:	DeJuan Tribble, Boston College
CB:	Justin King, Penn State
FS:	Roger Williams, Florida State
SS:	Kenny Phillips, Miami

Preseason 2nd Team All-American (Special Teams)

K:	Garrett Hartley, Oklahoma
P:	Michael Hughes, San Diego State
RET:	DeSean Jackson, WR - California

[cubsfan203]

Nice! Really happy to see this back.

Just a suggestion, changing around the borders can make the tables look better. For example, setting it to 0 for the top 25 would work well, or you can make it so the border is just a line.

Using 0 as the border

K:	Garrett Hartley, Oklahoma
P:	Michael Hughes, San Diego State
RET:	DeSean Jackson, WR - California

Adding "rules=box" after the border.

K:	Garrett Hartley, Oklahoma
P:	Michael Hughes, San Diego State
RET:	DeSean Jackson, WR - California

[kblu54]

Seminoles looking to bounce back, fend off Ryan & the Eagles
ACC News

Last season, the perennial powers known as Florida State struggled to a 7-6 mark, which allowed a surprising Wake Forest team to capture the Atlantic Division crown and eventually their first ACC title. As we open the 2007-2008 season, it looks like the Seminoles are ready to avenge a "lost" season.

Unfortunately, the road back to the top will not be easy. Florida State returns a solid squad, but they must hold off fiesty competitors like Boston College and Wake Forest. The Eagles seem to be their toughest opponent, with QB Matt Ryan leading a high-flying passing attack. And who knows, the Demon Deacons could have another ACC title run in them!

Let's take a look at the 2007-2008 Atlantic Division squads, in order of predicted finish.

1) Florida State Seminoles (#21)

Last Season Record: 7-6 (3-5 ACC)
Postseason Result: Won 44-27 over UCLA in Emerald Bowl

Top Players
DT Andre Fluellen [SR]
OLB Geno Hayes [JR]
WR De'Cody Fagg [SR]
DE Alex Boston [SR]
DT Letroy Guion [JR]

Offense (B-)
The Seminoles have an offense that fell way short of expectations last season, but still could have enough punch to lead a rise in the division. Junior QB Drew Weatherford will lead this group, but FSU could turn to dual-threat Xavier Lee if he struggles. RB Antone Smith, Fagg and junior WR Greg Carr are some good playmakers, but their backups are pretty young and unknown. Up front, the Seminoles will balance experience with youth (3 seniors, 2 freshmen).

Defense (B)
The Seminoles look pretty solid on defense, with a very dominating d-line and some young studs in the back 2 lines. Fluellen, a Preseason All-American, will team up with Boston and Guion to provide a great pass rush/run stopping line. Juniors Hayes and MLB Derek Nicholson will captain a talented but young linebacking corps, and senior FS Roger Williams, another Preseason All-American, will lead a solid secondary with talented youngsters like sophomores SS Myron Rolle and CB Patrick Robinson.

Special Teams (A+)
Senior kicker Gary Cismesia is one of the nation's top kickers and should give FSU an automatic 3 points whenever he's needed.

Overall (B)
The Seminoles may have to rely on their defense if they want to rise again to the top of the ACC.

2) Boston College Eagles (#25)

Last Season Record: 10-3 (5-3 ACC)
Postseason Result: Won 25-24 over Navy in Meineke Car Care Bowl

Top Players
QB Matt Ryan [SR]
CB DeJuan Tribble [SR]
SS Jamie Silva [SR]
MLB Jolonn Dunbar [SR]
DT Ron Brace [JR]

Offense (B)
The Eagles' offense and ACC title chances rest on the talented shoulders of Ryan. Arguably the best QB in the conference, Ryan will have to shred defenses left and right to boost the Eagles past their competitors. He will be aided by a run game paced by senior RBs Andre Callender and L.V. Whitworth, but it will be the play of his receivers that will guide them. OT Gosder Cherilus was a Preseason All-American and will captain a line that features 2 freshmen and a sophomore.

Defense (B-)
The Eagles have some question marks on defense, and it has nothing to do with the players that are active. Senior OLB Brian Toal will miss the entire season after suffering an injury in training camp, and junior DT B.J. Raji will sit out the season due to academic reasons. With both players out, how will the Eagles fare? Dunbar, Tribble and Brace are three dominant forces, and help from Silva and sophomore OLB Mark Herzlich could be enough to give them a solid defensive unit.

Special Teams (B)
Kicker Steve Aponavicius and punter Johnny Ayers will man the kicking duties.

Overall (B)
Ryan will be one of the nation's top QBs, but the Eagle defense needs to step up and support him in order for them to contend.

3) Wake Forest Demon Deacons (#33)

Last Season Record: 11-3 (6-2 ACC) *ACC Champions*
Postseason Result: Lost 24-13 to Louisville in Orange Bowl

Top Players
OLB Aaron Curry [JR]
DE Jeremy Thompson [SR]
CB Alphonso Smith [JR]
WR Kenneth Moore [SR]
OLB Stanley Arnoux [JR]

Offense (C+)
The Demon Deacons surprised everybody in winning their 1st ACC title last season, and it was the play of their offense that helped them contend. Sophomore QB Riley Skinner is back after an awesome freshman year, and he will be joined in the backfield by senior Micah Andrews and freshman Josh Adams. Skinner has a lot of experience to work with too, with 3 senior receivers and an o-line featuring 4 senior starters.

Defense (B)
The Wake Forest defense actually looks pretty solid, with a lot of talent all over the place. Curry and Arnoux form one of the best linebacking duos in the ACC, and Thompson should be a good pass rusher. In the secondary, Smith is joined by sophomore CB Brandon Ghee and junior Chip Vaughn, both of which share his NFL dreams.

Special Teams (A+)
Junior Sam Swank is arguably the nation's top specialist and will handle both the kicking and punting duties this fall.

Overall (B)
It will be another interesting ride for Wake Forest, but they could have enough to repeat.

4) Clemson Tigers (#38)

Last Season Record: 8-5 (5-3 ACC)
Postseason Result: Lost 28-20 to Kentucky in Music City Bowl

Top Players
RB James Davis [JR]
DE Phillip Merling [JR]
RB C.J. Spiller [SO]
SS Michael Hamlin [JR]
DE Ricky Sapp [SO]

Offense (B-)
Junior QB Cullen Harper shouldn't have to do much to make the Tigers successful, considering all the playmaking talent around him. Davis and Spiller form the best 1-2 punch in the ACC, and Spiller and sophomore WR Jacoby Ford make the Tigers dangerous in the return game. Junior WRs Aaron Kelly and Tyler Grisham give Harper two reliable targets, and the o-line looks pretty solid and has a Preseason All-American (senior OT Barry Richardson) on its lineup.

Defense (B)
Senior OLBs Tramaine Billie and Nick Watkins are surrounded by some defensive teammates destined for the NFL. It starts up front, with talented pass rushers Merling and Sapp, and continues to the secondary with junior safeties Hamlin and FS Chris Clemons. The corners are a little young, but sophomores Crezdon Butler and Chris Chancellor are still good.

Special Teams (A-)
Junior kicker Mark Buchholz, a former soccer player, and junior punter Jimmy Maners produce a respectable special teams unit.

Overall (B)
The Tigers seem to have a solid foundation for an ACC title run, but can they overcome their knack for falling short?

5) Maryland Terrapins (#40)

Last Season Record: 9-4 (5-3 ACC)
Postseason Result: Won 24-7 over Purdue in Champs Sports Bowl

Top Players
MLB Erin Henderson [JR]
CB Isaiah Gardner [SR]
TE Joey Haynos [SR]
SS Christian Varner [SR]
DT Dre Moore [SR]

Offense (B-)
The Terrapins will have to lean on their run game a lot if they want to push past their competitors. Senior RBs Keon Lattimore and Lance Ball form a solid tandem, but they will have to run well to keep the pressure off sophomore QB Chris Turner. Turner will have plenty of receiver help though, with Haynos and sophomore WR Darrius Heyward-Bey available. The Maryland o-line will have to overcome the year-long suspension of junior OT Jared Gaither, but they still form a pretty solid unit.

Defense (B+)
There is plenty to like about the Terrapin defense, and it first starts with experience. There is no starter younger than a junior, and they have a balanced group overall. Their junior trio of linebackers - Henderson, OLBs Dave Philistin and Moise Fokou - and junior DEs Trey Covington and Jeremy Navarre give Maryland a foundation for next year as well. Varner, Gardner and Moore give them the senior leadership they need to compete.

Special Teams (B+)
Nothing special here, but junior kicker Obi Egekeze is solid.

Overall (B)
Maryland will need to go old school, running the ball and playing defense, to contend this season.

6) N.C. State Wolfpack (#55)

Last Season Record: 3-9 (2-6 ACC)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Top Players
DT DeMario Pressley [SR]
SS DaJuan Morgan [JR]
DE Willie Young [SO]
RB Andre Brown [JR]
FS Miguel Scott [SR]

Offense (C)
It will be an uphill battle for the N.C. State offense this season as they attempt to return to a bowl game after going 3-9 last season. Brown paces the run game, and senior WRs Darrell Blackman and John Dunlap give them nice weapons to utilize. But who will be the starting QB: junior Daniel Evans or sophomore Harrison Beck? The Wolfpack will miss senior TE Anthony Hill, who is out for the year due to injury and will redshirt. Up front, seniors OG Kalani Heppe and C Luke Lathan will try to lead a group with two average OTs.

Defense (B-)
Pressley and Young give N.C. State a solid base up front, but the back 2 lines of defense aren't the best. There is a lot of experience (3 seniors at LB, and 2 seniors/2 juniors starting in the secondary) but the talent seems to be lacking a bit.

Special Teams (A+)
Senior kicker Steven Hauschka, a transfer using his final year of eligibility, gives the Wolfpack something to lean on.

Overall (B-)
The Wolfpack need to get back above .500 in order to make a bowl game, but it will be hard to do with this squad in a very tough division.

[kblu54]

Virginia Tech looking to capture ACC title, possibly more
ACC News

Last season, Georgia Tech rose up and beat out Virginia Tech for the Coastal Division crown but fell short of their 1st ACC title in nearly 2 decades. The Yellow Jackets do return a good squad, but the Hokies open the season ranked in the Top 10 and hungry to show last season was a fluke.

Let's take a look at the 2007-2008 Coastal Division teams, in order of predicted finish.

1) Virginia Tech Hokies (#9)

Last Season Record: 10-3 (6-2 ACC)
Postseason Result: Lost 31-24 to Georgia in Chick-fil-A Bowl

Top Players
MLB Vince Hall [SR]
CB Brandon Flowers [JR]
DE Chris Ellis [SR]
OLB Xavier Abidi [SR]
FS D.J. Parker [SR]

Offense (B-)
Virginia Tech loves to run the ball, and they are hoping junior RB Branden Ore gives them a boost. If they throw the ball, they have 4 senior WRs (Eddie Royal, Josh Morgan, Justin Harper, Josh Hyman) to use. At QB, they do have an option with junior Sean Glennon or dual-threat freshman Tyrod Taylor, so they could be dangerous in their playcalling. Up front, senior OT Duane Brown will lead a decent o-line.

Defense (B+)
The Hokies will pride themselves on their talented defense, which could be the catalyst to a title run. It all starts with their Preseason All-American linebackers in Hall and Adibi. If those two can lead a ferocious defensive attack, then watch out! Flowers, Parker and Ellis are three experienced starters giving the Hokies a good balance.

Special Teams (A)
Senior kicker Jud Dunlevy and talented sophomore punter Brent Bowden are the Hokies' specialists.

Overall (B+)
Virginia Tech is a very talented squad coming into the season, but they need to show it.

2) Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (#27)

Last Season Record: 9-5 (7-1 ACC)
Postseason Result: Lost 38-35 to West Virginia in Gator Bowl

Top Players
OLB Philip Wheeler [SR]
DE Darrell Robertson [SR]
DE Adamm Oliver [SR]
RB Tashard Choice [SR]
FB Mike Cox [SR]

Offense (B-)
The success of Georgia Tech's offense depends on the arm of junior QB Taylor Bennett and the legs of RB Choice. Cox was a Preseason All-American, and will combine with Tech's very solid o-line to open plenty of holes for Choice. Bennett isn't an outstanding QB, but he is solid enough to hit targets like sophomore TE Colin Peek. If the Yellow Jackets can be balanced and productive, they will contend for the division crown again.

Defense (B+)
The Yellow Jacket defense is just plain good, with just enough experience and young talent to allow them to dominate this year and beyond. OLBs Wheeler and Gary Guyton, DEs Robertson and Oliver, safeties Djay Jones and Jamal Lewis and CB Avery Roberson are all senior starters that will provide leadership to a talented group.

Special Teams (A+)
Senior punter Durant Brooks is probably the nation's top punter and will be an invaluable asset to the defense.

Overall (B+)
Only the Hokies truly stand in the way of Georgia Tech's quest for a 2nd-straight Coastal Division crown.

3) Miami Hurricanes (#30)

Last Season Record: 7-6 (3-5 ACC)
Postseason Result: Won 21-20 over Nevada in MPC Computers Bowl

Top Players
SS Kenny Phillips [JR]
DE Calais Campbell [JR]
OLB Tavares Gooden [SR]
SS Willie Cooper [SR]
DT Teraz McCray [SR]

Offense (C+)
Miami is still in the rebuilding stage after struggling to a 7-6 mark last season, and new head coach Randy Shannon will have to figure out how to get the most out of this offense. Senior QB Kyle Wright is decent and has a few solid targets to hit, but their run game will have to be paced by sophomore Javarris James and true freshman Graig Cooper. Helping matters will be 3 senior starts on the interior o-line.

Defense (B+)
Miami's defense is not bad by any means, but they are far removed from the dominating presence they once had. Still, Phillips and Campbell lead a very experienced group with only sophomore MLB Darryl Sharpton the only starter younger than a junior.

Special Teams (B+)
Freshman punter Matt Bosher is pretty solid, but the Hurricanes will have to decide between senior Francesco Zampogna or sophomore Daren Daly as placekicker.

Overall (B)
The Hurricanes have a solid group but may not compete until next season. If their offense can shape up quickly, they could surprise a few.

4) Virginia Cavaliers (#57)

Last Season Record: 5-7 (4-4 ACC)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Top Players
DE Chris Long [SR]
OLB Jermaine Dias [SR]
TE Tom Santi [SR]
OLB Clint Sintim [JR]
TE Jonathan Stupar [SR]

Offense (C+)
The Virginia offensive line is arguably the best squad in the ACC, but unfortunately there is very few athletes to utilize it. Junior RB Cedric Peerman is decent, but sophomore QB Jameel Sewell has few receivers and only good TEs to throw to.

Defense (B)
Long is one of the better defensive players in the country, but their isn't much support around him. Granted, OLBs Dias and Sintim and true freshman CB Ras-I Dowling are good, but overall this unit seems a tad weak compared to their competitors.

Special Teams (D-)
Senior kicker Chris Gould was voted to the Preseason All-ACC squad.

Overall (C-)
When it comes down to it, Virginia just doesn't have enough to contend. They may, depending on the play of their stars, qualify for a bowl.

5) North Carolina Tar Heels (#70)

Last Season Record: 3-9 (2-6 ACC)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Top Players
DT Kentwan Balmer [SR]
DE Hilee Taylor [SR]
WR Brandon Tate [JR]
WR Hakeem Nicks [SO]
TE Richard Quinn [SO]

Offense (C)
The Tar Heels have a solid receiving corps, a good offensive line and a potential star QB in redshirt freshman T.J. Yates. But the trouble is: who will run the ball? North Carolina should probably focus on the passing game early and often if they want to sneak above .500.

Defense (B-)
Come back in 2 years, and this Tar Heel defense will be awesome. Five, yes five, starters on the defense will be freshmen, including 3 in the secondary. Balmer, Taylor and OLB Durrell Mapp provide the senior leadership for these youngsters, but it could be a bumpy learning curve this season.

Special Teams (A+)
Senior kicker Connor Barth is the top-rated placekicker on Mel Kiper Jr.'s draft board.

Overall (B-)
Head coach Butch Davis has done a great job pulling in talented recruits for the Tar Heels, but it may take a year or two before they can compete in a tough ACC.

6) Duke Blue Devils (#109)

Last Season Record: 0-12 (0-8 ACC)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Impact Players
FB Tielor Robinson [SR]
FS Chris Davis [SR]
WR Eron Riley [JR]
DT Vince Oghobaase [SO]
WR Jomar Wright [SR]

Offense (C+)
The Blue Devils went winless last season, but their offense this season could be improved enough to warrant at least one victory. Sophomore QB Thaddeus Lewis is solid, but he is lacking in playmakers around him. Lewis will have a nice experienced o-line in front of him, so maybe that will help.

Defense (C)
This Duke defense pales in comparison to the rest of the ACC. Oghobaase, Davis and senior DE Patrick Bailey are the only solid players on a subpar unit.

Special Teams (B)
A decent group of specialists will give Duke a boost.

Overall (C+)
Duke can't go winless again... can they? They could probably squeeze out a few non-conference wins, but that's it.

[kblu54]

Michigan opens the year with high expectations, aspirations
Big Ten News

Ohio State ran the table last season, including a thrilling 42-39 victory over rival Michigan to clinch a spot in the BCS title game, but did not represent the Big Ten well in a 41-14 embarrassment at the hands of Florida.

To open the 2007 season, it is Michigan that finds themselves ranked as one of the top teams in the nation. The Wolverines return nearly everyone from last season's squad, and feature one of the better offenses in the country. Still, Michigan will have to hold off Ohio State and upstarts like Wisconsin and Penn State if they want a return trip to the Rose Bowl or better.

Let's take a look at the 2007-2008 Big Ten teams, in order of predicted finish.

1) Michigan Wolverines (#2)

Last Season Record: 11-2 (7-1 Big Ten)
Postseason Result: Lost 32-18 to USC in Rose Bowl

Top Players
OLB Shawn Crable [SR]
QB Chad Henne [SR]
WR Mario Manningham [JR]
RB Mike Hart [SR]
DE Brandon Graham [SO]

Offense (A-)
The Wolverines pack a potent punch on offense, with 4 of the better players in the Big Ten. Henne, Hart and Manningham give them 3 main parts of an explosive offense, and their success will be boosted by the play of senior OT Jake Long and a solid o-line.

Defense (B)
Michigan will have an interesting defense this season, with a mix of youth and experience. Senior leaders like OLBs Crable and Chris Graham and safeties Brandent Englemon and Jamar Adams will have to keep freshmen starters CB Donovan Warren and MLB Obi Ezeh in check. Graham is an exciting pass rusher that should help the unit gel.

Special Teams (A)
Sophomore Zoltan Mesko is one of the nation's best punters --- and he's only a sophomore.

Overall (A-)
Michigan will need their offense to play well each week if they want to stay ranked high. It will be a tough task in a tough conference like this.

2) Wisconsin Badgers (#7)

Last Season Record: 12-1 (7-1 Big Ten)
Postseason Result: Won 17-14 over Arkansas in Capital One Bowl

Top Players
TE Travis Beckum [JR]
RB P.J. Hill [SO]
DT Nick Hayden [SR]
WR Paul Hubbard [SR]
DE Matt Shaughnessy [JR]

Offense (B)
The Badgers base their success off of a bruising run game, which should flourish with a solid o-line and the return of Hill, who was one of the nation's freshman surprises last season. But for the Badgers to defend this high preseason ranking and their 12-1 record last season, they must have a solid passing attack led by senior QB Tyler Donovan. Donovan should have faith that he has receivers like Hubbard and Beckum to throw to.

Defense (B-)
The Badgers defense isn't anything to write home about, but they have a bunch of solid players at every level. Hayden and Shaughnessy anchor a tough d-line, and junior OLBs DeAndre Levy and Jonathan Casillas provide plenty of playmaking. In the secondary, junior CB Jack Ikegwuonu emerged as a shutdown corner last season and returns to an intruiging unit. Overall, Wisconsin really needs to play well every game if they want to compete.

Special Teams (A+)
Seniors Taylor Mehlhaff (kicker) and Ken DeBauche (punter) form one of the best kicking units in the nation.

Overall (A-)
The Badgers will face a tough road, but if they can get good play from their youngsters and their passing game, they will be a serious threat to Michigan.

3) Ohio State Buckeyes (#12)

Last Season Record: 12-1 (8-0 Big Ten) *Big Ten Champions*
Postseason Result: Lost 41-14 to Florida in BCS National Championship

Top Players
MLB James Laurinaitis [JR]
CB Malcolm Jenkins [JR]
DE Vernon Gholston [JR]
WR Brian Robiskie [JR]
OLB Larry Grant [SR]

Offense (B+)
Ohio State and Heisman Trophy winner QB Troy Smith failed to bring home the BCS National Title last season, but the Buckeyes will get another shot this year with junior QB Todd Boeckman at the helm. Boeckman isn't a dual-threat guy like Smith was, but he is a solid pocket passer and will be a great complement to sophomore RB Chris "Beanie" Wells, who has already established himself as one of the nation's best tailbacks. The Buckeyes also boast a tough and experienced offensive line.

Defense (B+)
Ohio State's defense will be the key to their success, as this unit is clearly the best one in the Big Ten. Laurinaitis, the son of former pro wrestler, and Jenkins are two of the best players at their respective positions. Gholston should be a pass-rushing maniac, and 3 talented sophomores in the secondary give Ohio State a base for the future.

Special Teams (A+)
Sophomore kicker Aaron Pettrey will really be a useful tool for the Buckeye offense.

Overall (A-)
Ohio State has all the tools to challenge both Wisconsin and hated rival Michigan. If the offense can put up points consistently, they should be able to lean on their strong defense for victories.

4) Penn State Nittany Lions (#17)

Last Season Record: 9-4 (5-3 Big Ten)
Postseason Result: Won 20-10 over Tennessee in Outback Bowl

Top Players
OLB Dan Connor [SR]
CB Justin King [JR]
WR Derrick Williams [JR]
WR Deon Butler [JR]
OLB Sean Lee [SO]

Offense (B+)
Penn State seems really balanced on offense, with both a solid run game and a respectable passing attack. Senior QB Anthony Morelli leads this unit, but he has plenty of weapons and a very solid o-line. Senior RBs Rodney Kinlaw and Austin Scott will pace the run game, while Williams and Butler give Morelli two of many talented receivers to aim for.

Defense (B)
Linebacker U still lives up to its reputation, as the Nittany Lions boast several top LB starters like Connor, Lee and junior Tyrell Sales. The d-line is talented but a little young, and their cornerbacks are awesome. The safety spots seem like a weak spot, but overall this seems like a pretty solid group.

Special Teams (A-)
Not a bad group of kickers, and WR Williams will also be an exciting return man.

Overall (B+)
Penn State should be a solid player in the Big Ten and this prediction to finish 4th seems justified. They will definately be a contender next season.

5) Iowa Hawkeyes (#41)

Last Season Record: 6-7 (2-6 Big Ten)
Postseason Result: Lost 26-24 to Texas in Alamo Bowl

Top Players
DE Kenny Iwebema [SR]
CB Charles Godfrey [SR]
MLB Mike Klinkenborg [SR]
OLB Mike Humpal [SR]
RB Albert Young [SR]

Offense (B-)
Iowa's offense seems to have a nice mix of talent, but there is inexperience across the board. No seniors on the o-line, and 2 freshman starters. Sophomore QB Jake Christensen runs the show, but he will be assisted by senior RBs Young and Damian Sims. Juniors WR Andy Brodell and TE Tony Moeaki head up a talented but young receiving group.

Defense (B)
There's only one way to counteract an inexperienced offense - a very experienced defense. Seven out of 11 starters are seniors, and only one player (sophomore OLB A.J. Edds) is younger than a junior. Not only that, but the Hawkeyes are loaded with young depth that could mean a bright future defensively.

Special Teams (B+)
Two redshirt freshmen will man the specialists duties for Iowa.

Overall (B)
Iowa is an intruiging team and could be anywhere from the top 3 to the bottom 5 in this conference. I think their defense will be top notch, but their offense does have a lot of question marks.

6) Purdue Boilermakers (#45)

Last Season Record: 8-6 (5-3 Big Ten)
Postseason Result: Lost 24-7 to Maryland in Champs Sports Bowl

Top Players
TE Dustin Keller [SR]
DE Cliff Avril [SR]
OLB Stanford Keglar [SR]
WR Dorien Bryant [SR]
QB Curtis Painter [JR]

Offense (B+)
Purdue is kind of a sleeper pick in the Big Ten this year mainly due to their outstanding offense. Junior QB Curtis Painter leads an explosive passing attack, in which he will hit talented receivers like Bryant and Keller. The o-line isn't bad either, led by junior OT Sean Sester and senior OG Jordan Grimes, and junior RB Kory Sheets gives them a much-needed running boost.

Defense (C+)
The reason why Purdue isn't a very popular sleeper pick in the Big Ten is due to their mediocre defense. Avril, Keglar and junior DT Alex Magee are solid, but the rest of the defense looks weak. The secondary could get picked apart.

Special Teams (A-)
Senior punter Jared Armstrong is solid, but sophomore kicker Chris Summers needs a lot of work.

Overall (B)
Unless Purdue can consistently win shootouts, they won't break into the top half of the conference.

7) Minnesota Gophers (#50)

Last Season Record: 6-7 (3-5 Big Ten)
Postseason Result: Lost 44-41 to Texas Tech in Insight Bowl

Top Players
FS Dominique Barber [SR]
WR Ernie Wheelwright [SR]
WR Eric Decker [SO]
TE Jack Simmons [JR]
SS Duran Cooley [SR]

Offense (B-)
Minnesota has an interesting group offensively, but I'm not sure it will be enough to hang with the Big Ten's big boys. Redshirt freshman QB Adam Weber will run the show, but he has playmakers like Wheelwright, Decker and senior RB Amir Pinnix to utilize. The o-line beyond senior C Tony Brinkhaus looks a little shaky though.

Defense (C+)
The Minnesota defense isn't bad, but they definately don't have an outstanding unit. Barber and 3 other senior starters in the secondary will be a nice asset, but the front seven seems pretty weak.

Special Teams (B+)
Nothing too special to write home about here, with 2 solid juniors on tap.

Overall (B-)
Another bowl game is a definite possibility for the Gophers. A Big Ten championship? No freaking way.

8) Illinois Fighting Illini (#54)

Last Season Record: 2-10 (1-7 Big Ten)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Top Players
OLB J Leman [SR]
RB Rashard Mendenhall [JR]
CB Vontae Davis [SO]
FS Justin Sanders [SR]
FS Justin Harrison [SR]

Offense (B-)
Illinois could have an exciting offense to watch this season, with Mendenhall and sophomore dual-threat QB Isaiah "Juice" Williams running the spread. The o-line looks very solid, so they could have the protection needed to make some noise. Watch out for true freshman WR Arrelious Benn, who will be their #1 receiver and kick returner.

Defense (B-)
The defense could be a strongpoint for the Illini. Leman, Sanders, Harrison and OLB Antonio Steele give them plenty of senior leadership, while youngsters like Davis give them plenty of playmaking. If they can play well consistently, Illinois could be a surprise in the conference.

Special Teams (B+)
Kickers kick, punters punt. What more do you want?

Overall (B)
Illinois should do much better than last year's poor 2-10 finish. They have a very balanced team that could dominate on both sides of the ball... maybe.

9) Michigan State Spartans (#59)

Last Season Record: 4-8 (1-7 Big Ten)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Top Players
WR Devin Thomas [JR]
TE Kellen Davis [SR]
DE Ervin Baldwin [SR]
RB Javon Ringer [JR]
QB Brian Hoyer [JR]

Offense (B)
Lots to like about this Spartan offense. A great balance of run and pass, and talented players at the controls. Ringer could be a bruising back, and Thomas could be a surprising deep threat. The o-line looks great and has the most experience in the conference (3 seniors, 2 juniors).

Defense (B-)
A wide mix of experience and youth on this defense. Six seniors will start, but so will 3 freshmen. Two of the freshmen to watch are OLBs Greg Jones and Eric Gordon, but it will be senior MLB Kaleb Thornhill's job to keep them on track. Baldwin may be a solid pass rusher.

Special Teams (A)
Sophomore Brett Swenson is one of the nation's best and he's still got 2 years left.

Overall (B)
Michigan State has plenty of tools to help improve on a measly 4 wins last season. They will have a tough road ahead, but they aren't bad by any means.

10) Indiana Hooisers (#65)

Last Season Record: 5-7 (3-5 Big Ten)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Top Players
CB Tracy Porter [SR]
WR James Hardy [JR]
OLB Geno Johnson [JR]
RB Marcus Thigpen [JR]
DE Jammie Kirlew [SO]

Offense (C)
Thigpen and Hardy are two solid playmakers, but they play within a mediocre offense. Dual-threat sophomore QB Kellen Lewis is an enigma, so we'll have to see how he performs. Not helping matters is a porous o-line, with their best player (OT Rodger Saffold) checking in as only a sophomore.

Defense (C+)
The good parts: Johnson, Porter and a slew of talented sophomores (Kirlew, DE Greg Middleton, safeties Nick Polk and Austin Thomas). The bad parts: Weak spots everywhere, and starting sophomores is always a risk.

Special Teams (B)
Not a very good unit, but there is some experience.

Overall (C+)
The story is out on both sides of the ball, so it will be interesting to see if one, both or neither side will step up.

11) Northwestern Wildcats (#66)

Last Season Record: 4-8 (2-6 Big Ten)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Top Players
DE Corey Wootton [SO]
RB Tyrell Sutton [JR]
MLB Adam Kadela [SR]
FS Reggie McPherson [SR]
WR Kim Thompson [SR]

Offense (B-)
Northwestern seems to have a good balance and the o-line looks pretty solid, led by seniors C Trevor Rees and OT Dylan Thiry. As for the playmakers, the Wildcats will have junior QB C.J. Bacher at the helm with plenty of help around him. Sutton is a solid tailback, and Thompson is one of many good receivers.

Defense (B-)
Note sure what to make of this unit yet. Wootton is a future NFL star, but is the rest of his teammates good enough to support him. Kadela and McPherson will provide senior leadership, but weak spots at DT and OLB may be hard to overcome.

Special Teams (B)
If I could pronounce their kickers' names I would write them here. Unfortunately, that is not the case.

Overall (B-)
This is one of the few predictions that might not come true. The Wildcats have a pretty solid squad but will have to play well against the lower-tier conference rivals in order to break past the .500 mark.

[kblu54]

Huskers face tough road in quest for 2nd straight North title
Big 12 News

Nebraska, who had been a perennial power in the Big 12 for years, captured the North Division title last season but fell to Oklahoma in the Big 12 title game. The Huskers enter this season as the early favorites to repeat in the North, but they will face a much tougher road this time around.

Teams like Missouri and Kansas State looked poised to knock off the Big Red powerhouse and claim the North for themselves. It might be a tight battle for the North crown this season.

Let's take a look at the 2007-2008 North teams, in order of predicted finish.

1) Nebraska Cornhuskers (#14)

Last Season Record: 9-5 (6-2 Big 12)
Postseason Result: Lost 17-14 to Auburn in AT&T Cotton Bowl

Top Players
OLB Steve Octavien [SR]
CB Zack Bowman [SR]
DT Ndamukong Suh [SO]
OLB Bo Ruud [SR]
WR Maurice Purify [SR]

Offense (B-)
Coach Bill Callahan has built up a pretty solid West Coast-style offense at Nebraska, which should be very balanced. Senior QB Sam Keller has a nice group of receivers and an experienced o-line to stand behind. If Nebraska can get a solid run game out of junior Marlon Lucky and others, they could be a force.

Defense (B)
Nebraska's defense has a ton of experience, and two exciting sophomores to fill in the gaps. Three seniors each start in both the linebacking group and in the secondary, and 3 juniors have spots on the d-line. Keep an eye on sophomores Suh and SS Larry Asante, who may push this unit to a new level.

Special Teams (B+)
A solid group of kickers, with a redshirt freshman at placekicker and a junior punting.

Overall (B)
The Huskers are the defending division champs and the favorites until someone proves otherwise. When or if that happens is a mystery.

2) Missouri Tigers (#37)

Last Season Record: 8-5 (4-4 Big 12)
Postseason Result: Lost 39-38 to Oregon State in Brut Sun Bowl

Top Players
DT Evander "Ziggy" Hood [JR]
TE Martin Rucker [SR]
WR William Franklin [SR]
TE Chase Coffman [JR]
QB Chase Daniel [JR]

Offense (B+)
Missouri's offense could challenge anyone in the conference. Daniel is a top-notch leader and has plenty of playmakers to connect with. Rucker, a Preseason All-American, and Coffman form the nation's best TE tandem and the receiving group is outstanding. Senior RB Tony Temple will provide them the run game and balance they need, and the o-line looks very stout. Watch out for freshman WR/KR Jeremy Maclin, who could be a game changer.

Defense (B-)
Missouri's offense may look great, but their defense raises a few concerns. The Tigers have a bunch of great players, like Hood, junior FS William Moore and sophomore OLB Sean Weatherspoon, but is this unit good enough to challenge for the North title?

Special Teams (A+)
Junior kicker Jeff Wolfert and senior punter Adam Crossett give Missouri one less thing to worry about.

Overall (B+)
Missouri has a ton of talent on both sides of the ball, and could be a legit threat to knock off the Huskers. Can they really do it though?

3) Kansas State Wildcats (#46)

Last Season Record: 7-6 (4-4 Big 12)
Postseason Result: Lost 37-10 to Rutgers in Texas Bowl

Top Players
WR Jordy Nelson [SR]
DE Rob Jackson [SR]
QB Josh Freeman [SO]
SS Marcus Watts [JR]
DE Ian Campbell [JR]

Offense (B)
Kansas State has a pretty good offense. Freeman is a very solid signal-caller, and Nelson will be a player opponents gameplan for. The o-line isn't bad and has some good experience (4 juniors, 1 senior), but I'm a little concerned with the run game. Is senior RB James Johnson good enough to give them balance?

Defense (C+)
The Wildcats' DE tandem, group of corners and Watts at safety give them items to be thankful for. The rest of the defense? Awful. The linebackers are particularly bad and the DT group isn't very good.

Special Teams (A-)
Senior punter Tim Reyer seems competent.

Overall (B-)
Kansas State has a lot of talent, but it seems top-heavy. Big 12 opponents could exploit their weak spots and ruin their shot quickly.

4) Colorado Buffaloes (#58)

Last Season Record: 2-10 (2-6 Big 12)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Top Players
OLB Jordan Dizon [SR]
CB Terrence Wheatley [SR]
OLB Brad Jones [JR]
RB Hugh Charles [SR]
WR Dusty Sprague [SR]

Offense (C+)
Things that are decent: The o-line and receivers. Things that are good: Charles anchoring a potentially strong run game. Things that aren't good: Sophomore QB Cody Hawkins, son of head coach Dan Hawkins, and depth beyond the starters.

Defense (B-)
Dizon, Jones and Wheatley are solid talents but the rest of the defense looks pretty weak. The d-line isn't bad but it isn't good either.

Special Teams (A)
Sophomore punter Matthew DiLallo is very solid.

Overall (B)
Colorado just looks too average to compete with the big boys. A bowl game is not out of the question though.

5) Kansas Jayhawks (#60)

Last Season Record: 6-6 (3-5 Big 12)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Top Players
CB Aqib Talib [JR]
TE Derek Fine [SR]
WR Marcus Henry [SR]
SS Darrell Stuckey [SO]
DT James McClinton [SR]

Offense (B-)
Kansas has a decent offense ready to roll this season. Sophomore QB Todd Reesing will step into the starting role this year, and has a few solid weapons to use. Henry and Fine captain a nice receiving corps, and watch for true freshman WR Dezmon Briscoe and QB-turned-WR Kerry Meier to play a role. The o-line looks very good, and should help the RB tandem of senior Brandon McAnderson and sophomore Jake Sharp rack up tons of yards.

Defense (B-)
CB Talib is one of the nation's top corners and was voted a Preseason 1st Team All-American. The rest of the defense looks a little shaky, so it will be interesting to see how they perform. Stuckey is an exciting player that does well in coverage and against the run, so the Jayhawks could have something cookin'.

Special Teams (B+)
A pair of seniors will handle the kicking duties.

Overall (B-)
I like what Coach Mark Mangino is building out of a perennially lousy program. The Jayhawks have a lot of pieces in place to make some noise, but my guess is it won't happen until next season.

6) Iowa State Cyclones (#83)

Last Season Record: 4-8 (1-7 Big 12)
Postseason Result: DNQ

Top Players
OLB Alvin Bowen [SR]
DT Ahtyba Rubin [SR]
OLB Jon Banks [SR]
WR Todd Blythe [SR]
TE Ben Barkema [SR]

Offense (C)
The Cyclones have a few good players on offense, like Blythe, Barkema and senior QB Bret Meyer, but overall the package isn't very promising. The run game looks especially weak, and the o-line will have lots of trouble against some of these dominating Big 12 d-lines.

Defense (C+)
Bowen, Banks and Rubin anchor an average front seven, but they won't be able to overcome a brutal secondary. The Cyclones may be able to limit rushing attacks, but should get shredded through the air.

Special Teams (B+)
Sophomore punter Mike Brandtner is not bad at all. In fact, he's pretty good.

Overall (C)
Expect the cellar-dweller Cyclones to get buried below their Big 12 rivals again.