Football is back

- It's Kickoff 2008-eve. Let's get my game-by-game schedule analysis out of the way first.

08/30 Western Michigan - W 45-28
09/06 San Jose St. - W 38-13
09/13 New Mexico St. - W 56-21
09/27 Virginia Tech - W 21-20
10/04 Missouri - L 38-24
10/11 @ Texas Tech - L 47-24
10/18 @ Iowa State - W 28-16
10/25 Baylor - W 44-14
11/01 @ Oklahoma - L 41-17
11/08 Kansas - L 31-27
11/15 @ Kansas St. - W 28-25
11/28 Colorado - W 37-27

Final Regular Season Record - 8-4.
Bowl - Alamo Bowl.



- Tim Griffin poses 5 questions for the 2008 Nebraska team.

Five burning questions for the Cornhuskers

August 26, 2008 10:44 PM

Posted by ESPN.com's Tim Griffin

After an embarrassing defensive skid last season, Nebraska coach Bill Callahan was fired and replaced by Bo Pelini, a one-time Nebraska defensive coordinator who went on to greater fame and fortune as the defensive coordinator for LSU's national championship team last season.

Pelini's expertise is defense and he's got his work cut out with a unit that was blistered for more yards than any Nebraska unit in history last season. His old-school, no-nonsense approach appears to be ideal for the Cornhuskers' program heading into the season -- particularly after hiring several familiar assistants from Frank Solich's old staff to bring a sense of normalcy back to the program.

The Cornhuskers should have a punishing offensive attack that should allow them to dictate the clock and keep that defense off the field. A bruising offensive line, several potential I-backs and QB Joe Ganz gives them a nice offensive start.

But the ultimate litmus test for Nebraska this season will be how much their defense improves. It will determine how competitive they will be heading into Saturday's opener against Western Michigan.

Here are five pressing questions that will dog Pelini heading into the season.

1. Can Pelini bring some life back to the moribund defense? The Cornhuskers' defense was so bad last season that they took their Blackshirts away from the starters. Pelini still hasn't given them back. Maybe he's heard too much about producing a Big 12-low 11 turnovers last season or how they allowed 172 points in their final three games. But the unit has to improve and make more big plays or it could be a long year for the new coach.

2. Do they have enough depth at defensive tackle? After Kevin Dixon was kicked off the squad before camp began, it left Pelini scrambling for inside players. Pelini needs to light a fire under Ndamukong Suh, who badly tailed off last season. Ty Steinkuhler's back injury has been a concern. Perhaps the biggest show of panic at the position came when little brother Baker Steinkuhler was switched to defense. He was expected to be one of the Big 12's premier young offensive linemen. Oh well.

3. Who will emerge at I-back? The Cornhuskers have some of the best depth in the conference with Big 12 returning rushing leader Marlon Lucky sharing his No. 1 position with Roy Helu and Quentin Castille. Offensive coordinator Shawn Watson has called Lucky his starter, but watch for Helu and Castille to also get a lot of early work.

4. Can Joe Ganz cut down on his turnovers? Ganz posted pinball-like numbers in his three starts, rolling up 1,399 yards and 15 touchdown passes. But he was also victimized by seven interceptions and can't afford to be nearly as reckless this season. Keeping the ball away from the other team will be Nebraska's most important task offensively.

5. How will Pelini handle an extended period of losing? It's all good now for Pelini, who's the nearest thing to a rock star that can be found in Nebraska. He's even bigger than "Larry the Cable Guy."

Books have already been written about Pelini before his first game. But how would these fans handle a slump or a couple of surprise losses? More importantly, how would Pelini react to it? I still remember him going after Bill Snyder following a 2003 loss against Kansas State. And that was back when he had some good defensive players. Imagine this year's defense after facing teams like Missouri, Oklahoma, Kansas or Texas Tech. Bo might have an aneurism, unless he's learned a lot of patience over the last five years.




- 2008 Roster Analysis


- Offense.

QUARTERBACKS



• Latest word: Funny thing, there doesn't seem to be near the commotion for Joe Ganz as for Sam Keller a year ago, and Ganz could be set to do greater things. Confidence is no problem for the senior who posted some gaudy numbers in his three starts closing out 2007. Traditional Husker fans might enjoy seeing an NU quarterback run the football again, and Ganz should be adequate at it. Let's be honest, though: There are bigger names across the Big 12 and the Huskers have no backups with meaningful experience.

• Big 12 rank: 8

• Who can help: Patrick Witt and Zac Lee have made it difficult to pick who might be No. 2. Different styles include Lee being the better runner and Witt a slightly better thrower. Might not be a bad idea to get one or the other some work if a non-conference game allows.

2 Patrick Witt Fr. 6-4 225... First three semesters have included 4.0 grade average
3 Zac Lee So. 6-2 210... Threw TD pass in Husker spring game
7 Kody Spano Fr. 6-2 210... Graduated early for January arrival in Lincoln
12 Joe Ganz Sr. 6-1 210... Passed for 1,399 yards, 15 TDs in three starts
15 Beau Davis Sr. 6-4 180... At 23, Davis is the oldest of the bunch
16 Jim Ebke So. 6-0 210... Lincoln East grad transferred from South Dakota State
18 Zach Ruiz Fr. 6-3 210... Twice led Beatrice to Class B state semifinals


RUNNING BACKS



• Latest word: Marlon Lucky is a returning 1,000-yard rusher but it won't be surprising to see Nebraska spread out some carries. Roy Helu has been coming hard since spring practice and routinely gained praise from NU coach Bo Pelini. Quentin Castille could be the short-yardage man if he protects the football. Lucky lends a nice element coming out of the backfield but don't expect 75 receptions again. Hey, who knows, No. 1 fullback Thomas Lawson might even see the football.

• Big 12 rank: 3

• Who can help: It's still a little strange seeing Cody Glenn on defense, and the offense lost some experience and attitude with his departure. If Lucky, Helu and Castille stay healthy, not sure what that leaves somebody like Marcus Mendoza. Backup fullback looks to be Justin Makovicka.

5 IB Marlon Lucky Sr. 6-0 215... Accounted for 1,724 yards in 2007 with rushing and receiving
10 IB Roy Helu So. 6-0 215... California background includes experience playing rugby
14 IB Lester Ward Fr. 6-3, 215... His father, Lester Sr., played for the Dallas Cowboys
19 IB Quentin Castille So. 6-1 235... Posted 100-yard rushing game against Oklahoma State
25 IB Jeremy Wallace Fr. 6-1 220... Walk-on capped Omaha Bryan career as a 1,000-yard rusher
27 IB Kenny Wilson Sr. 6-0 225... Once promising career sidetracked by injuries
28 IB Austin Jones Fr. 5-10 205... Half-brother of Nebraska receiver Menelik Holt
29 IB Collins Okafor Fr. 6-1 195... Ran for 3,375 yards in final two Omaha Westside seasons
30 IB Mike Hays Fr. 6-1 230 ... Played both linebacker and fullback on 200 scout team
32 IB Marcus Mendoza Fr. 5-10 185... After redshirt season, caught TD pass in spring game
33 FB David Pillen Fr. 5-11 230... Son of former Husker linebacker Clete Pillen also long-snaps
35 FB Jordan Makovicka Fr. 5-10 170... Nearly hit 2,000-yard mark as senior at East Butler
36 FB Thomas Lawson Sr. 6-0 250... All three catches resulted in TDs in 2007
37 FB Kevin Thomsen Fr. 6-2 240... Elkhorn High grad redshirted last season
41 FB Aaron Gillaspie So. 6-2 240... Previously played for Nebraska's lacrosse club team
43 FB Brent Moravec Fr. 6-0 180... Son of former NU fullback Mark Moravec
45 FB Justin Makovicka So. 6-1 240... Brother of Joel and Jeff looking for first playing time
48 FB Tyler Legate So. 5-10 220... Redshirting after transfer from South Dakota


WIDE RECEIVERS



• Latest word: There's some real concern with the Husker receiving corps and with good reason. Nate Swift and Todd Peterson bring experience and senior leadership, but neither is considered the "go-to'' threat (a la Maurice Purify) necessary in the Big 12. Swift certainly deserves praise for his 103 receptions to date. A host of unproven receivers are waiting for the chance to contribute. The safest bet is that junior Menelik Holt breaks through first. Sophomore Niles Paul might be most capable of providing some flash.

• Big 12 rank: 8

• Who can help: Phrase that in a question, please. After Holt and Paul, there's Chris Brooks, Curenski Gilleylen and Will Henry -- but their combined career catches are minimal. It's not likely than any of the scholarship freshmen will make a huge impact, if they play at all.

1 Chris Brooks Jr. 6-2 210... Played in just one game last season
4 Menelik Holt Jr. 6-4 220... All four catches after Joe Ganz became starting QB
6 Khiry Cooper Fr. 6-2 180... Fifth-round draft pick by Los Angeles Angels in June
8 Will Henry So. 6-5 220... Named to 2007 Brook Berringer Citizenship Team
9 Ben Lester Fr. 5-10 170... Comes from the same hometown as former Husker Matt Davison
11 Curenski Gilleylen Fr. 6-0 210... Caught a 77-yard TD pass in spring game
17 Todd Peterson Sr. 6-4 215... Nine TDs and a career 17.7 average per reception
21 Tim Marlowe Fr. 5-10 160... Graduated from same high school as coach Bo Pelini
23 Matt Donahue So. 6-2 180... Mandatory redshirt year for transfer from Ohio U.
24 Niles Paul So. 6-1 210... Workload likely to include punt and kickoff returns
26 Steven Osborne Fr. 6-4 185... Twin brother Courtney is on the Husker defense
82 Wes Cammack Jr. 5-11 195... First-team Academic All-Big 12 in 2007
84 Steve Spratte Fr. 5-11 180... Recruited walk-on out of Waukesha, Wis.
85 KC Hyland Fr. 6-6 195... Caught 36 passes as senior at Lincoln Pius X
87 Nate Swift Sr. 6-2 200... Needs 41 receptions to become NU's all-time leader


TIGHT ENDS



• Latest word: Part of what accompanied the recruiting hype of the past is that when players didn't produce immediately it made people ask what was wrong. Mike McNeill from the 2006 class would be an example of somebody who just needed a little time to master the system, shake some injuries and mature physically. As a third-year sophomore, he might be ready to go. Definitely a position of need for the Huskers, who haven't gotten significant production out of a tight end since Matt Herian in an injury-shortened 2004.

• Big 12 rank: 7

• Who can help: Hunter Teafatiller and Dreu Young have played some, but Teafatiller has hurt his own cause with off-the-field issues. Ryan Hill is coming off a redshirt and actually started preseason practice listed No. 2. It looks like this will be the future home for Kyler Reed, who also has the ability to play fullback, linebacker and defensive end. Longtime NU receivers coach Ron Brown has brought his energy and experience to handling a new position.

25 Kyler Reed Fr. 6-3 220... Versatility to play a number of positions
44 Mike McNeill So. 6-4 240... Leg and shoulder injuries have set him back before
47 Tyson Hetzer Jr. 6-6 250... JC recruit from 2007 hasn't gotten untracked
49 Dreu Young So. 6-4 245... Caught a 14-yard pass vs. Nevada in first career game
80 Ryan Hill Fr. 6-3 245... Fifteen pounds heavier after a redshirt season
81 Ben Cotton Fr. 6-6 230... Shunned others for NU when his dad, Barney, joined Husker staff
83 Damon Bechtold Fr. 6-4 215... Two-way player logged 10 sacks as Omaha Westside senior
88 Jay Martin Fr. 6-2 215... Redshirt freshman practiced at linebacker last season
89 Hunter Teafatiller Sr. 6-3 240... Remember those four TD catches in 2006?


OFFENSIVE LINEMEN



• Latest word: Some minor setbacks have come with the indefinite suspension of Andy Christensen before spring practice and Jaivorio Burkes missing the start of fall camp. There is stability and more, though, with seniors Lydon Murtha, Matt Slauson and Mike Huff. Junior Jacob Hickman slides over to handle the center chores and depth is starting to be restored after some lean years.

• Big 12 rank: 3

• Who can help: Backup guard Keith Williams is going to be one of the hardest to keep out of the lineup and a likely anchor in 2008 and 2009. D.J. Jones can play guard or tackle on the right side. Marcel Jones ran with the No. 1s at right tackle until Burkes was ready. Surprise of the bunch is Mike Caputo, a redshirt freshman and walk-on, as the No. 2 center.

54 Max McShane Fr. 6-6 290... Elkhorn grad spent a year with NU track team
56 Justin Baumgartner Sr. 6-2 245... Started his career at Chadron State
58 Mike Caputo Fr. 6-1 275... Starter on Millard North state championship team in 2005
59 Brian Thorson Fr. 6-3 280... Also a walk-on from Millard North
61 Mike Huff Sr. 6-4 300... Career numbers include 19 starts and 27 games played
63 Derek Meyer Sr. 6-5 300... K-State transfer won't be eligible until 2009
65 Mike Smith So. 6-6 285... Backup at LT played in all 12 games last season
66 Cruz Barrett So. 6-4 310... Signee from 2006 gets fresh start with new line coach
67 Jacob Hickman Jr. 6-4 290... New center started nine games last fall at left guard
68 Keith Williams So. 6-5 305... Interesting major for the bulldozing lineman: Art
69 Cory Iske Fr. 6-4 285... Millard West grad joined Huskers in January
70 Matt Slauson Sr. 6-5 320... Locked at right guard after starting at three positions in 2007
72 Jaivorio Burkes So. 6-5 325... Ditched redshirt to start three late-season games in 2007
73 D.J. Jones So. 6-5 305... First duty included playing in nine games last fall
74 Ricky Henry Jr. 6-4 305... Took two-year detour through a North Dakota JC
76 Lydon Murtha Sr. 6-7 315... Now at left tackle and protecting Joe Ganz's blind side
78 Marcel Jones Fr. 6-7 310... Big, agile and definitely looks the part in uniform
79 Brandon Thompson Fr. 6-6 295... Scholarship recruit had several Big 12 offers
82 T.J. O'Leary Sr. 6-1 235... Entering third season as NU's long snapper



- Defense.


Defensive line



• Latest word: The Huskers need to stay healthy and develop a few young players to avoid a bad situation among the front four. All starters return, but remember, these guys combined for only 6 sacks last year on a defense that surrendered 37 points per game. Regardless, the talent is there to be a strong unit. Zach Potter, Ndamukong Suh and Barry Turner are capable of big years. Ty Steinkuhler needs to stay healthy.

• Big 12 rank: Fifth

• Who can help?: Redshirt freshmen Jared Crick and Terrence Moore impressed NU coaches in preseason camp. Baker Steinkuhler figures to fit somewhere. Maybe Pierre Allen or William Yancy can emerge as a pass-rush specialist.

17 DE Josh Williams Fr. 6-4 225 Rookie out of Texas is speedy but still undersized for line play.
31 DE Nick Covey Jr. 6-2 250 Moved to line after two injury-plagued years at linebacker.
34 DE Cameron Meredith Fr. 6-4 225 Californian started three seasons at powerful Mater Dei High School.
43 DT Ty Steinkuhler Sr. 6-3 280 Eight-game starter a year ago still bothered by back trouble.
47 DE William Yancy Fr. 6-4 245 Athletic pass rusher redshirted a year ago out of Glendale, Ariz.
50 DT Quentin Toailoa Fr. 6-4 300 Two-time all-conference high school pick from Highland, Calif.
54 DT Shukree Barfield Sr. 6-4 290 New Jersey native made 15 stops last year as juco transfer.
55 DT Baker Steinkuhler Fr. Freshman 6-6 290 Top newcomer earned prep All-America honors at offensive tackle.
58 DT Justin Jackson Fr. 6-3 255 True frosh walk on made 105-man roster for preseason camp.
63 DT Ben Martin So. 6-4 275 Versatile lineman recorded three tackles in seven games a year ago.
66 DE Conor McDermott Fr. 6-2 230 Walk on earned second-team All-Nebraska honors at Creighton Prep.
68 DE Josh Molek Fr. 6-3 235 First-team all-state in Class B a year ago at Omaha Skutt.
70 DE Kenny Anderson Fr. 6-2 235 Millard West graduate recorded 13 sacks as senior last year.
73 DT Keifer Burke Fr. 6-3 220 Honorable-mention all state last year out of Maxwell, Neb.
75 DE Luke Lingenfelter Fr. 6-4 255 Redshirted after earning C-2 all-state honors in Plainview, Neb.
80 DE David Harvey Jr. 6-4 265 Appeared in just one game last year after moving from tight end.
85 DE Faron Klingelhoefer Fr. 6-2 255 Redshirt season at UNK followed all-state career in Amherst, Neb.
88 DE Clayton Sievers Sr. 6-4 255 Former tight end has started four games over three years as top reserve.
89 DE Jonathon Santin Fr. 6-3 225 Prep star in Fullerton, Neb., redshirted last year as walk on.
90 DT Terrence Moore Fr. 6-3 275 New Orleans native may step into key backup spot after redshirting.
92 DE Tyrone Fahie So. 6-3 255 25-year-old spent six years in the U.S. Navy before walking on.
93 DT Ndamukong Suh Jr. 6-4 300 Physically gifted starter at nose tackle is coming off knee surgery.
94 DT Jared Crick Fr. 6-6 280 Pushing for lots of interior playing time after redshirting last season.
95 DE Pierre Allen So. 6-5 265 Made 16 tackles last year in 11 games as bulked-up top reserve.
98 DE Zach Potter Sr. 6-7 280 Most consistent returning lineman after making 45 tackles in 11 starts.
99 DE Barry Turner Sr. 6-3 265 Returning starter has yet to match production from freshman year.


Linebackers



• Latest word: This is what happens when you lose four seniors who rarely came out of the game, even when NU was way ahead or behind. Nebraska is as young and perhaps more inexperienced than ever in the heart of its defense. Phillip Dillard, with three starts and 52 career tackles, ranks as the most seasoned defender. Alongside him, Cody Glenn has never played a down of defense in college, and Tyler Wortman is unproven. Several youngsters appear talented.

• Big 12 rank: 10th

• Who can help?: Coach Mike Ekeler might need to hire a babysitter for his 14 linebackers, out of 21 total, who are freshmen. Sorting through the youth, Will Compton, Alonzo Whaley and Sean Fisher look impressive. Walk-on Matt Holt stood out early in camp.

7 LB Latravis Washington So. 6-3 225 Progress of ex-prep QB from Florida hurt by August leg injury.
9 LB Austin Stafford Fr. 6-2 205 Status remains in question after missing spring and preseason practice.
34 LB Cody Glenn Sr. 6-0 235 Three years as an I-back didnt hurt Texan in bid to start right away on weak side.
35 LB Matt Holt Fr. 6-0 200 Early reporting walk on from Kansas City originally committed to sign with S.D. State.
40 LB Blake Lawrence So. 6-2 225 Former K.C.-area star played in eight games last year and enters fall as No. 2 Buck.
41 LB Thomas Grove So. 6-2 225 Played on special teams last year as rookie walk on from Arlington, Neb.
42 LB Joseph Camarata Fr. 5-10 225 Started high school at Lincoln S.E. before moving to Overland Park, Kan.
42 LB Sean Fisher Fr. 6-6 225 Big-time athlete out of Millard North could eventually fit many defensive roles.
44 LB Micah Kreikemeier Fr. 6-3 210 Bo Pelini's first recruiting score will redshirt after summer knee surgery.
45 LB Alonzo Whaley Fr. 6-1 225 Talented Texan was two-way star in high school, recording 162 tackles last year.
48 LB Marcus Smith Fr. 6-1 195 Earned second-team all state to help Crete win two consecutive Class B crowns.
49 LB Tanner Foxhoven Fr. 6-3 210 Walk on was C-1 all-state as two-way performer last year in Crofton, Neb.
51 LB Will Compton Fr. 6-2 230 NU won recruiting battle over Missouri for top recruit who could help right away.
52 LB Phillip Dillard Jr. 6-1 235 Former prep All-American looks to assume big leadership role from middle.
53 LB Tyler Wortman Sr. 6-3 235 Academic star earned starting Buck spot in spring as fifth-year walk on.
54 LB Colton Koehler Jr. 6-1 230 Nebraska Wesleyan transfer has moved into top backup role at Mike position.
61 LB Matt Manninger Fr. 6-1 225 Two-year starter at Creighton Prep walked on at NU over small-school offers.
62 LB Mychael McClure Fr. 6-5 210 Three-sport star from Wisner-Pilger is brother of NU trackster Kellen McClure.
65 LB Colin McDermott Fr. 6-2 225 All-Nebraska Creighton Prep grad earned defensive MVP of Shrine Bowl.
67 LB Sam Meginnis Fr. 6-2 210 Walk on was second-team all-state last year after leading Lincoln East in tackles.
71 LB Graham Stoddard Fr. 6-2 215 Walk on was a playmaking defensive end at Lincoln Southwest.


Secondary



• Latest word: Other than perhaps I-back, no spot on the NU depth chart offers more athleticism than safety, where Larry Asante and Rickey Thenarse could form one of the Big 12s best duos. But there are many questions. What happens with Anthony Blue and the situation at right corner? Armando Murrillo will be solid, and Major Culbert is poised for a big year in some kind of a new role. Also, watch out for Matt OHanlon, who might just step into a leadership spot.

• Big 12 rank: Sixth

• Who can help?: Somebody among the freshmen figures to get a look for playing time. Alfonzo Dennard is a candidate. If sophomore Prince Amukamara can stay consistent, hell get on the field and make things happen.

1 CB Alfonzo Dennard Fr. 5-10 190 Newcomer from Georgia has drawn early praise for his athleticism.
2 S Major Culbert Jr. 6-0 205 Versatile performer appears ready to finally find a spot after two years of shuffling.
3 S Rickey Thenarse Jr. 6-0 195 Special teams star is ready to show athleticism on defense as top free safety.
4 S Larry Asante Sr. 6-1 210 Scheduled starter at strong safety might be poised for a breakout final year.
5 CB Anthony West So. 6-0 200 Third-year defender from San Diego may end up starting in place of Anthony Blue.
6 CB Armando Murrillo Sr. 6-0 190 Started 12 games last year and set to anchor otherwise young group of corners.
8 S Austin Cassidy Fr. 6-1 205 Walk on and former prep QB is son of ex-NU associate AD Tim, now at Texas A&M.
12 DB Courtney Osborne Fr. 6-3 175 Signed with brother Steven seven years after Bullocks, last twins to star at NU.
13 S P.J. Smith Fr. 6-2 205 Committed late in recruiting season out of Louisiana after winning three straight state titles.
14 CB Anthony Blue So. 5-10 180 Availability in doubt for budding star after March knee injury and operation.
16 S John Levorson Fr. 6-3 190 Superb athlete from Crete, Neb., needs to fill out a bit after star prep career as QB.
18 CB Shawn Sullivan Fr. 5-10 190 Texan redshirted a year ago and may find backup spot this fall.
20 DB Jase Dean Fr. 6-0 180 Walk on from Bridgeport, Neb., won three state sprinting titles as high school junior.
21 CB Prince Amukamra So. 6-1 195 Talented youngster from Arizona played in eight games as true freshman.
22 S Mason Wald Fr. 5-11 205 Hard hitter gives NU its first signee from Alabama since Brett Byford in 2003.
23 CB Lance Thorell Fr. 6-1 190 Redshirted walk on set the Class D record in the 110-meter hurdles at Loomis HS.
24 S Adam Watson So. 6-0 190 Youngest son of NU offensive coordinator did not play in first two seasons.
28 CB Eric Hagg So. 6-1 200 Versatile defender of out Arizona is capable of lining up anywhere in backfield.
33 S Matt OHanlon Sr. 5-11 195 Veteran walk on from Bellevue East will play special teams and provide depth.
36 S Matthew May Fr. 6-1 195 Made 105-man camp roster after redshirting out of Imperial, Neb.
46 DB Taylor Dixon Fr. 5-11 170 Walk on ran and passed for more than 1,000 yards last year at Wauneta-Palisade.


Kickers



• Latest word: Titchener figures to improve again and continue the trend of strong senior punting at Nebraska. Kunalic and Henery remain stuck in a fight for the top field-goal duties, while Kunalic is again likely to handle kickoffs.

• Big 12 rank: Third

• Who can help?: Barring injury, the Huskers are set to stick with the veterans. Maher, the lone newcomer, will likely redshirt and battle next year for the punting job.

20 PK Adi Kunalic So. 6-0 185 Strong-legged kickoff man got just one chance at field goal last year, hitting from 46.
37 PK Jake Wesch Sr. 6-1 205 Contributor for three seasons as holder and occasional kickoff specialist.
90 PK Alex Henery So. 6-2 175 Omaha Burke grad was perfect on eight field goals last year and can also punt
96 PK Brett Maher Fr. 6-0 160 Walk on from Kearney, Neb., kicked and played wide receiver to earn all-state honors.
97 P Dan Titchener Sr. 6-0 200 Two-year starter from Wyoming improved average by two yards last year to 41.3.




- Big 12 Preview.



- Big 12 North.

1: Missouri.



Coach: Gary Pinkel, eighth year.
2007: 12-2, 7-1.

• SWAGGER FACTOR: The coaching staff is trying to downplay it, but Missouri players aren't bashful about discussing a trip to Miami for the BCS championship game. The Tigers were one half away from qualifying last year before Oklahoma, tied 14-14, swamped them in the second half of the Big 12 title game. No team has more preseason All-Big 12 picks than MU (8), and only Florida has two Heisman Trophy candidates as strong as QB Chase Daniel and WR-KR Jeremy Maclin.

• ALL WILL BE REVEALED: Oct. 4 at Nebraska. The Tigers haven't won in Lincoln in 30 years. That has to change for MU to take the next step.

• OFFENSE: Better use of the running game last season made this spread offense even more dangerous. Now, with a tackle-breaker in TB Derrick Washington, the red zone woes might be over, too.
Big 12 rank: 1.

• DEFENSE: Missouri, which made huge in-season improvement last year, should be good from the opening kickoff this season. Ten starters return, led by All-America S William Moore.
Big 12 rank: 2.

• COACHING: Pinkel used to be the butt of jokes for some of his weird and panicked game-day decisions. But credit him with learning from his mistakes, trusting his players more and listening to his staff about changes.
Big 12 rank: 5.

• INTANGIBLES: MU fans look at the long history of football disappointments and can't believe something this good can happen. But young people have short history horizons, and don't know or care about past woes.
Big 12 rank: 1.

• QUOTEWORTHY: "We certainly haven't arrived. We won the Big 12 North last year. Missouri hasn't won a Big 12 championship yet. So we've made progress. Certainly I'm very proud of the players in our program, and the seniors a year ago who really helped change things.'' - Coach Gary Pinkel

SCHEDULE:
Aug. 30, Illinois in St. Louis
Sept. 6, SE Missouri State
Sept. 13, Nevada
Sept. 20, Buffalo
Oct. 4, at Nebraska
Oct. 11, Oklahoma State
Oct. 18, at Texas
Oct. 25, Colorado
Nov. 1, at Baylor
Nov. 8, Kansas State
Nov. 15, at Iowa State
Nov. 29, Kansas in Kansas City

• 2008 PREDICTION: 13-0, BCS title game.


2: Kansas.



Coach: Mark Mangino, seventh year.
2007: 12-1, 7-1.

• SWAGGER FACTOR: The naysayers claim that a tougher schedule will bring Kansas back to earth this season. But any program that finishes in the Top 15 nationally in turnover margin (1), scoring offense (2), scoring defense (4), rushing defense (8) and total defense (12) like KU did in 2007 isn't going away. Mark Mangino has turned a town full of basketball fans into football believers. The system is in place, the recruiting is rock solid and the facilities are upgraded.

• ALL WILL BE REVEALED: Oct. 25 vs. Texas Tech. This could be the swing game for both schools in their attempts to become upper-echelon regulars.

• OFFENSE: The Jayhawks are counting on junior-college transfer Jocques Crawford (1,935 yards, 19 touchdowns) to add some giddy-up. QB Todd Reesing's best bodyguard - T Anthony Collins - left early for the NFL.
Big 12 rank: 6.

• DEFENSE: The LBs are as good a group as any in the country, led by 6-3, 255-pound Mike Rivera. The loss of DT James McClinton is big, but the ends are strong and the secondary is deep and talented.
Big 12 rank: 3.

• COACHING: No one in this league enjoys the week before a Kansas game. Mangino is Bill Snyder-esque in his preparation and game planning. A key this year is how new defensive coordinator Clint Bowen operates on game day.
Big 12 rank: 2.

• INTANGIBLES: For years, Mangino and his staff played chess with only checkers-caliber players. Now that the recruiting has been upgraded, the moves and counters are executed faster and better, and it shows.
Big 12 rank: 5.

• QUOTEWORTHY: "Expectations are very high for our program. We embrace those expectations because there was a time when I first arrived here that there were no expectations for Kansas' football program. We think we're going to have a pretty good football team again.'' - Coach Mark Mangino

SCHEDULE:
Aug. 30, Florida International
Sept. 6, Louisiana Tech
Sept. 12, at South Florida
Sept. 20, Sam Houston State
Oct. 4, at Iowa State
Oct. 11, Colorado
Oct. 18, at Oklahoma
Oct. 25, Texas Tech
Nov. 1, Kansas State
Nov. 8, at Nebraska
Nov. 15, Texas
Nov. 29, Missouri in Kansas City

• 2008 PREDICTION: 8-4, Holiday Bowl.


3: Nebraska.



Coach: Bo Pelini, first year.
2007: 5-7, 2-6.

• SWAGGER FACTOR: Bo Pelini was a strong hire for a program that had lost its identity and its manhood. Nebraska was badly in need of some no-nonsense toughness and straightforward communication. Now, how many victories does that produce? That's the $1.1 million-a-year question. Husker fans want it hot and want it now, but a 7-5 or 8-4 record with a minor bowl should be considered a good first step on the road back to the Top 15.

• ALL WILL BE REVEALED: Sept. 27 vs. Virginia Tech. The Huskers need a good showing against a strong program before facing Missouri and Texas Tech back to back.

• OFFENSE: Having a good line is a good place to start. And QB Joe Ganz looks like a spunky leader in the mold of Chase Daniel and Todd Reesing. But this unit is lacking in big-gainers and playmakers.
Big 12 rank: 7.

• DEFENSE: There are too many good players on this side of the ball to be as bad as last year. Don't be surprised if NU recovers as many fumbles in the season-opener as it did all last season (three).
Big 12 rank: 6.

• COACHING: Regardless Pelini's pedigree, questions always linger over a first-time head coach. Will he be a giant in the game like Oklahoma's Bob Stoops or someone on the hot seat in four years like Arizona's Mike Stoops?
Big 12 rank: 7.

• INTANGIBLES: Nebraskans need to deal with the fact that after six games, the record could be 3-3. So pay more attention this season to whether the Huskers act like they're coached and play like they care. Those are the keys.
Big 12 rank: 4.

• QUOTEWORTHY: "I know I'm not a psychologist. I'm not a guy who can just get them into a room and wipe out any bad feelings or bad memories they've had. As they're taught and get comfortable in our system and they develop confidence, then those things go away.'' - Coach Bo Pelini

SCHEDULE:
Aug. 30, Western Michigan
Sept. 6, San Jose State
Sept. 13, New Mexico State
Sept. 27, Virginia Tech
Oct. 4, Missouri
Oct. 11, at Texas Tech
Oct. 18, at Iowa State
Oct. 25, Baylor
Nov. 1, at Oklahoma
Nov. 8, Kansas
Nov. 15, at Kansas State
Nov. 28, Colorado

• 2008 PREDICTION: 7-5, Insight Bowl.


4: Colorado.



Coach: Dan Hawkins, third year.
2007: 6-7, 4-4.

• SWAGGER FACTOR: The Buffaloes would like to strut around some after going from 2-10 in 2006 to 6-7 last year. But they know they could be a better team this year and end up with a worse record because of a nasty schedule, both in and out of conference. Coach Dan Hawkins appears to have things in place for long-term success. But this season could be a sideways step because the offensive talent is young, and too many top-flight veteran defenders graduated.

• ALL WILL BE REVEALED: Consecutive games against West Virginia (Sept. 18), Florida State (Sept. 27), Texas (Oct. 4) and Kansas (Oct. 11). Whew!

• OFFENSE: CU really needs TB Darrell Scott, the nation's top incoming prep runner, to be as good as advertised. A breakaway threat in the backfield will give developing QB Cody Hawkins much-needed cover.
Big 12 rank: 9.

• DEFENSE: All-Big 12 choice George Hypolite leads a strong front four. But the Buffs lost two first-team All-Big 12 picks in the back seven. With so many great QBs in this league, this isn't the year to have a green secondary.
Big 12 rank: 8.

• COACHING: Hawkins' high-energy personality has been a big hit in laid-back Boulder. The recruiting is rolling at a high level. And for the first time in 19 years at the school, the entire staff remained intact.
Big 12 rank: 6.

• INTANGIBLES: If a young offensive line and the freshman Scott develop quickly, Colorado could make a lot of predictions look bad. But the meat-grinder schedule looks like too big a challenge for any kind of breakout.
Big 12 rank: 6.

• QUOTEWORTHY: "So much of life is made up in the details of little things. We were a 'skosh' away from winning 10 games a year ago, and also a 'skosh' away from winning two, as horrific as that sounds. So in every area, it's going to have to be minuscule improvements to scratch and claw and be able to win.'' - Coach Dan Hawkins

SCHEDULE:
Aug. 31, Colorado State in Denver
Sept. 6, Eastern Washington
Sept. 18, West Virginia
Sept. 27, Florida State in Jacksonville, Fla.
Oct. 4, Texas
Oct. 11, at Kansas
Oct. 18, Kansas State
Oct. 25, at Missouri
Nov. 1, at Texas A&M
Nov. 8, Iowa State
Nov. 15, Oklahoma State
Nov. 28, at Nebraska

• 2008 PREDICTION: 5-7, no bowl.


5: Kansas State.



Coach: Ron Prince, third year.
2007: 5-7, 3-5.

• SWAGGER FACTOR: Ron "Bold and Daring'' Prince would seem to have lost that title after a $250,000 buyout of a home game against Fresno State in order to schedule Montana State. But then he signed 19 junior college players in February, which is about as bold and daring as you can get. K-State's November collapse last season _ four losses by an average score of 51-28 _ looks like it has sparked a panic move, though Prince said the JC bonanza is part of his master plan.

• ALL WILL BE REVEALED: Oct. 4 vs. Texas Tech. If KSU doesn't win that Big 12 home opener, up next are four road games around a home game with Oklahoma.

• OFFENSE: The Wildcats scored three points total in the spring game. The top running back was a walk-on junior college transfer. All-America WR Jordy Nelson graduated. And Josh Freeman says he's the league's best QB. You sort it out.
Big 12 rank: 10.

• DEFENSE: Changing from the 4-3 to a 3-4 last year was a major mistake. It left the Wildcats short-handed and out of position, leading to the late-season wipeouts. Moving Ian Campbell back to DE is a good start.
Big 12 rank: 10.

• COACHING: In Prince's first two seasons, eight assistants left. He has upset Texas twice, but is 0-6 against Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska. Still, he just got a $350,000 raise and two more years on his contract.
Big 12 rank: 9.

• INTANGIBLES: Prince is either a mad scientist with a secret formula for success or is over his head and looking to cobble together a decent year to use as a way to get out. Either way, it's a fascinating story.
Big 12 rank: 7.

• QUOTEWORTHY: "We've started 45 players in each of the past two seasons. We've redshirted very few players. We've put ourselves in a position to be one of the most experienced teams in the league for 2008. That was one of our goals from the beginning.'' - Coach Ron Prince

SCHEDULE:
Aug. 30, North Texas
Sept. 6, Montana State
Sept. 17, at Louisville
Sept. 27, UL-Lafayette
Oct. 4, Texas Tech
Oct. 11, at Texas A&M
Oct. 18, at Colorado
Oct. 25, Oklahoma
Nov. 1, at Kansas
Nov. 8, at Missouri
Nov. 15, Nebraska
Nov. 22, Iowa State

• 2008 PREDICTION: 4-8, no bowl.


6: Iowa State.



Coach: Gene Chizik, second year.
2007: 3-9, 2-6.

• SWAGGER FACTOR: ISU earned respect around the league with a sound finish to 2007. After a 53-point home loss to Texas, the Cyclones played Oklahoma and Missouri close and beat Kansas State and Colorado. Still, this is a major work in progress. There are no preseason All-Big 12 picks, and there probably won't be any postseason ones, either. A major infusion of talent is needed in the next few years for ISU to even think about reaching the upper half of the North Division.

• ALL WILL BE REVEALED: Sept. 6 vs. Kent State. The Cyclones lost at home to Kent State (3-9) last year. They can't let it happen again.

• OFFENSE: Even with QB Bret Meyer and WR Todd Blythe, ISU was last in the Big 12 in scoring and total offense. So what happens with them gone? Look for more ball-control, milk-the-clock drives to try to shorten games.
Big 12 rank: 12.

• DEFENSE: Where's the beef? The depth chart shows a front four with weights of 258, 273, 288 and 250. The biggest linebacker weighs 223. And only one of the top eight secondary players tops 200 pounds.
Big 12 rank: 11.

• COACHING: Chizik's teams will play hard and line up correctly. But the big questions are whether the recruiting can improve and if the staff needs to be beefed up with more guys who have been at BCS schools.
Big 12 rank: 12.

• INTANGIBLES: When the Iowa State administration pulled the plug on the Dan McCarney era, it knew patience would be required in trying to build this differently. But waiting is the hardest part.
Big 12 rank: 11.

• QUOTEWORTHY: "Our last eight months have been very driven to show progress. We feel like everything is on the right track. We will have more growing pains. We don't have a lot of players where you 'add water, instant player.' So we've got to do a lot of developing.'' - Coach Gene Chizik

SCHEDULE:
Aug. 28, South Dakota State
Sept. 6, Kent State
Sept. 13, at Iowa
Sept. 20, at UNLV
Oct. 4, Kansas
Oct. 11, at Baylor
Oct. 18, Nebraska
Oct. 25, Texas A&M
Nov. 1, at Oklahoma State
Nov. 8, at Colorado
Nov. 15, Missouri
Nov. 22, at Kansas State

• 2008 PREDICTION: 3-9, no bowl.




- Big 12 South.

1: Oklahoma.



Coach: Bob Stoops, 10th year.
2007: 11-3, 6-2.

• SWAGGER FACTOR: Despite four BCS bowl losses in a row, the Sooners' strength inside the Big 12 remains plainly evident. OU has played in six of the past eight Big 12 championship games, and will be favored to make it seven of nine as long as QB Sam Bradford (No. 1 nationally in pass efficiency as a freshman) avoids a sophomore slump. Oklahoma has reached a rhythm in its style of play and its recruiting that makes it difficult for the rest of this league to keep up.

• ALL WILL BE REVEALED: Oct. 11 vs. Texas in Dallas. Regardless of which new contender pops up, this game always sets the table in the South.

• OFFENSE: What's not to like? Bradford proved to be more than a caretaker at QB. The offensive line might be the nation's best. TB DeMarco Murray is a game-breaker. And the receivers are above average.
Big 12 rank: 2.

• DEFENSE: The front four is nasty and deeply talented, providing the pressure up front that is so important against spread offenses. The back seven lost some key players, but several redshirts showed well in the spring.
Big 12 rank: 1.

• COACHING: Since becoming a head coach in 1999, Bob Stoops has averaged 10.8 wins a season. And that's while having five assistants move on to other Division I-A head coaching jobs.
Big 12 rank: 1.

• INTANGIBLES: After winning a league-best fifth Big 12 title and becoming the first school to win two in a row, Oklahoma is on a roll on the field with its play and off the field with facilities and support.
Big 12 rank: 3.

• QUOTEWORTHY: "We've been in six Big 12 championship games and we won five, so we're doing something right. We know how to win those games. We'll manage the others the best we can. As much as anything, it's the players staying invested in us as coaches as well as us doing the job we need to do to be at our best.'' - Coach Bob Stoops

SCHEDULE:
Aug. 30, Chattanooga
Sept. 6, Cincinnati
Sept. 13, at Washington
Sept. 27, TCU
Oct. 4, at Baylor
Oct. 11, Texas in Dallas
Oct. 18, Kansas
Oct. 25, at Kansas State
Nov. 1, Nebraska
Nov. 8, at Texas A&M
Nov. 22, Texas Tech
Nov. 29, at Oklahoma State

• 2008 PREDICTION: 11-2, BCS bowl.


2: Texas Tech.



Coach: Mike Leach, ninth year.
2007: 9-4, 4-4.

• SWAGGER FACTOR: The Red Raiders are the trendy pick nationally for a breakout season. They have a wild and crazy coach, 19 starters back from a 9-4 team and a three-year starting QB who led the nation in passing. Confidence is high, but is it justified? For every big victory Tech has had in recent years, there seems to have been two head-scratching defeats to counter it. The Red Raiders' best finish under Leach is No. 18. That leaves too much doubt for now.

• ALL WILL BE REVEALED: Oct. 25 at Kansas and Nov. 22 at Oklahoma. In road games against ranked foes, Texas Tech under Leach is 1-18.

• OFFENSE: Tech was second nationally last season in total offense and seventh in scoring. That probably won't change, but too many stats are piled up against weak non-league foes. More consistency in league play is needed.
Big 12 rank: 4.

• DEFENSE: This unit did improve after changing coordinators following a 49-45 loss at Oklahoma State in week four. But giving up 41, 31, 59, 27 and 28 points in games after mid-October leave an uneasy feeling.
Big 12 rank: 5.

• COACHING: Leach has extended Texas Tech's Big 12-best streak of consecutive years with bowl eligibility to 15, and created an identity for Red Raider football. The next step is to move up a step into the BCS-bowl echelon.
Big 12 rank: 4.

• INTANGIBLES: Is this Tech team the one that is so tired of banging on the door and not being let in that it will do something about it? That's the theme entering the season. We'll see where it leads.
Big 12 rank: 2.

• QUOTEWORTHY: "Our expectations are already high. So what that means to me is we just need to ignore expectations and everybody needs to do their job and improve on their role. If everybody does that together for the entire season, we have a chance to continue to improve.'' - Coach Mike Leach

SCHEDULE:
Aug. 30, Eastern Washington
Sept. 6, at Nevada
Sept. 13, SMU
Sept. 20, Massachusetts
Oct. 4, at Kansas State
Oct. 11, Nebraska
Oct. 18, at Texas A&M
Oct. 25, at Kansas
Nov. 1, Texas
Nov. 8, Oklahoma State
Nov. 22, at Oklahoma
Nov. 29, Baylor

• 2008 PREDICTION: 9-3, Cotton Bowl.


3: Texas.



Coach: Mack Brown, 11th year.
2007: 10-3, 5-3.

• SWAGGER FACTOR: It was interesting at Big 12 media days to watch Texas _ with a $105 million athletic budget and a 98,000-seat football stadium - attempt to label itself as an underdog this season. Perhaps that's reverse swagger from a program that has won at least 10 games for seven straight seasons. Even if the Longhorns are a year away, as many analysts think, there is too much talent around for them to be too far off the radar screen.

• ALL WILL BE REVEALED: Oct. 11 vs. Oklahoma in Dallas. The Longhorns could rattle the ratings with an upset here.

• OFFENSE: Is the offense that produced 52 points in the Holiday Bowl the real deal? For that game, UT used a quicker tempo, more exotic plays and some passer-runner QB alternating. This under-performing unit needs some jazzing up.
Big 12 rank: 5.

• DEFENSE: New coordinator Will Muschamp from Auburn has had free reign to jumble this unit, which gave up the most yards in school history. He has opened the depth chart and promised to play those who produce.
Big 12 rank: 4.

• COACHING: Muschamp is as well-regarded as any defensive coordinator nationally. Also, bringing in former QB Major Applewhite as an offensive aide could light a fire under longtime coordinator Greg Davis.
Big 12 rank: 3.

• INTANGIBLES: When the Longhorns get fired up and want to play, few can hang with them. The problem is effort and intensity sometimes seem optional. Will UT believe it is a year away or be willing to strike now?
Big 12 rank: 9.

• QUOTEWORTHY: "The Big 12 may be the strongest it has ever been from top to bottom. We have nine bowl teams on our schedule, so it will be the hardest schedule we've ever played. We'll have to play really, really well to have as good as team as we have had because of the strength of schedule and the offenses in this league.'' - Coach Mack Brown

SCHEDULE:
Aug. 30, Florida Atlantic
Sept. 6, at UTEP
Sept. 13, Arkansas
Sept. 20, Rice
Oct. 4, at Colorado
Oct. 11, Oklahoma in Dallas
Oct. 18, Missouri
Oct. 25, Oklahoma State
Nov. 1, at Texas Tech
Nov. 8, Baylor
Nov. 15, at Kansas
Nov. 27, Texas A&M

• 2008 PREDICTION: 8-4, Alamo Bowl.


4: Oklahoma State.



Coach: Mike Gundy, fourth year.
2007: 7-6, 4-4.

• SWAGGER FACTOR: With billionaire oilman T. Boone Pickens writing checks, swagger is in plentiful supply in Stillwater. But can the Cowboys cover the checks being written? Mike Gundy is known more for his verbal assault on a female sportswriter last season than for his coaching acumen. The loss of offensive guru Larry Fedora to Southern Mississippi won't help. OSU is scary-good athletically, but hasn't discovered the keys to consistency yet.

• ALL WILL BE REVEALED: Oct. 25 at Texas. Considering the schedule OSU drew this season, a road upset of major magnitude will be needed to contend.

• OFFENSE: Of all the Big 12 spread formations, this one structurally may be the most difficult to defend. QB Zac Robinson and TE Brandon Pettigrew are very underrated, and the line depth may be the school's best in years.
Big 12 rank: 3.

• DEFENSE: After finishing 101st in total defense last season, improvement is a must. Only two starters in the front seven return. Five juco defenders enrolled in January and need to make an impact.
Big 12 rank: 9.

• COACHING: Give Gundy credit in recruiting. For the first time, the Cowboys have landed Top 25 classes for three straight years. The problem has been more in fitting that talent together.
Big 12 rank: 11.

• INTANGIBLES: It's hard to find any. This looks like the usual Oklahoma State team. The Pokes will pull an upset, lose an easy one, finish just above .500 and go to a minor bowl.
Big 12 rank: 10.

• QUOTEWORTHY: "Our players are very excited, very confident. We feel very good about our progress in the latter part of last season. We finished strong, with a bowl win over Indiana. We had a great recruiting class. We have a lot of discipline and structure in our program, and that's what we believe in.'' - Coach Mike Gundy

SCHEDULE:
Aug. 30, Washington State in Seattle
Sept. 6, Houston
Sept. 13, Missouri State
Sept. 27, Troy
Oct. 4, Texas A&M
Oct. 11, at Missouri
Oct. 18, Baylor
Oct. 25, at Texas
Nov. 1, Iowa State
Nov. 8, at Texas Tech
Nov. 15, at Colorado
Nov. 29, Oklahoma

• 2008 PREDICTION: 7-5, Sun Bowl.


5: Texas A&M.



Coach: Mike Sherman, first year.
2007: 7-6, 4-4.

• SWAGGER FACTOR: Don't assume this is a carbon copy of the Nebraska-Bill Callahan experiment, even though new coach Mike Sherman has been in the NFL the past 11 years (Green Bay, Houston) and then hired four former Callahan staffers. Sherman has been at A&M twice before for seven seasons total. He has work to do to repair the Aggie spirit. Under Dennis Franchione, A&M recorded its worst loss ever and had two losing records in five years.

• ALL WILL BE REVEALED: Oct. 11 vs. Kansas State and Nov. 1 vs. Colorado. These home games are must wins for A&M to get bowl eligible.

• OFFENSE: Drastic change is afoot. The option-based attack has been scrapped for a pro-style set, often with two backs. That means two-year QB starter Stephen McGee has to start over to hold off 6-foot-5 Jerrod Johnson.
Big 12 rank: 11.

• DEFENSE: The man punching the buttons is 64-year-old Joe Kines. He'll pull out every trick in his thick book to shore up the Wrecking Crew, which gave up 42 touchdowns and 416 yards a game last year.
Big 12 rank: 7.

• COACHING: It's an interesting collection. Kines is in his 40th year. Former Kansas wishbone QB Nolan Cromwell, the offensive coordinator, has zero time as a college coach. Tom Rossley is a former head coach at SMU.
Big 12 rank: 8.

• INTANGIBLES: First-year coaches struggle in leagues this good. No reason to expect an exception here. The learning curve for the NFL guys will be steeper than they expect. And the current personnel doesn't fit the new systems.
Big 12 rank: 8.

• QUOTEWORTHY: "I know the landscape well, and I know what it's all about. It's as similar as I can get to a place like Green Bay, where you come to work every day, the expectations are very high and the fans are very passionate.'' - Coach Mike Sherman

SCHEDULE:
Aug. 30, Arkansas State
Sept. 6, at New Mexico
Sept. 20, Miami (Fla.)
Sept. 27, Army
Oct. 4, at Oklahoma State
Oct. 11, Kansas State
Oct. 18, Texas Tech
Oct. 25, at Iowa State
Nov. 1, Colorado
Nov. 8, Oklahoma
Nov. 15, at Baylor
Nov. 27, at Texas

• 2008 PREDICTION: 6-6, Independence Bowl.


6: Baylor.



Coach: Art Briles, first year.
2007: 3-9, 0-8.

• SWAGGER FACTOR: New coach Art Briles says he likes to "walk down paths nobody else wants to walk down.'' Well, he's at the right place. Baylor is 11-85 all-time in the Big 12, has finished last in the South in 10 of 12 years and has a 13-year bowl drought. Briles, the fifth BU coach in 13 years, has plenty of work to do before even thinking about "swagger.'' The Bears first need to find their way to "respectable'' then "improving'' and "challenger.''

• ALL WILL BE REVEALED: During nonconference play. That's when Baylor faces Wake Forest (9-4), Washington State (5-7) and Connecticut (9-4).

• OFFENSE: Briles was an assistant for three years to Texas Tech's Mike Leach, which added to his wide-open offense. As a Texas prep coach, Briles developed five QBs who each threw for 3,000 yards in college.
Big 12 rank: 8.

• DEFENSE: Only Nebraska's sorriest defensive season ever kept Baylor, 110th nationally, out of last place in the Big 12. LB Joe Pawelek is an honors candidate. But depth and talent are in short supply overall.
Big 12 rank: 12.

• COACHING: Briles is a fixer-upper. He led Houston to its first undisputed conference title in 26 years and first 10-win season since 1990. He also turned Stephenville (Texas) High into a winner.
Big 12 rank: 10.

• INTANGIBLES: Chuck Reedy, Dave Roberts, Kevin Steele and Guy Morriss couldn't make it work. So what hope does Briles have? With his extensive Texas roots (five high schools, three colleges), maybe recruiting ramps up.
Big 12 rank: 12.

• QUOTEWORTHY: "If I walked through the room and 11 other head coaches from the Big 12 walked through, there probably wouldn't be a whole lot of people pointing at me saying, 'There goes Baylor football.' So that's what we're out to change.'' - Coach Art Briles

SCHEDULE:
Aug. 30, Wake Forest
Sept. 6, NW (La.) State
Sept. 13, Washington State
Sept. 19, at Connecticut
Oct. 4, Oklahoma
Oct. 11, Iowa State
Oct. 18, at Oklahoma State
Oct. 25, at Nebraska
Nov. 1, Missouri
Nov. 8, at Texas
Nov. 15, Texas A&M
Nov. 29, at Texas Tech

• 2008 PREDICTION: 3-9, no bowl.






- 2008 Games to watch.

Keep up-to-date on the best the 2008 season has to offer

Rivalries. Backyard brawls. Cocktail parties. From Aug. 30 to Dec. 6, the 2008 college football season is chock full of great matchups from coast to coast. Here's a week-by-week schedule of games to watch:


Week 1

Aug. 30: Alabama vs. Clemson (8 p.m. ET, ABC)
The Crimson Tide and the Tigers meet in Atlanta's Georgia Dome, where Clemson ended the 2007 season with a 23-20 overtime loss to Auburn in the Chick-fil-A Bowl. A loss to Alabama would greatly diminish Clemson's lofty expectations in 2008.

Aug. 30: Illinois vs. Missouri (8:30 p.m. ET, ESPN)
Who knew last year's opener in the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis would produce two of college football's biggest surprises? The Tigers have their sights set on a national championship this season; the Illini hope to stay near the top of the Big Ten.

Upset alert: East Carolina over Virginia Tech (Noon ET, ESPN)


Week 2

Sept. 6: Oregon State vs. Penn State (3:30 p.m. ET, ABC)
The Nittany Lions, with 14 starters back, might be flying under the radar in the Big Ten. The Beavers have quietly put together the best two-year record in the Pac-10 by a team other than USC.

Upset alert: Central Florida over South Florida (7 p.m. ET, ESPN2)


Week 3

Sept. 12: Kansas at South Florida (8 p.m. ET, ESPN2)
The Jayhawks and Bulls play in Tampa on Friday night in a matchup of two of last season's biggest surprises. South Florida climbed as high as No. 2 in the national rankings before slipping badly at season's end. Kansas went 12-1 in 2007, but didn't face a nonconference opponent anywhere near the level of the Bulls.

Sept. 13: Ohio State at USC (8 p.m. ET, ABC)
The Buckeyes, losers in each of the past two BCS championship games, hope to finally silence their critics by beating the Trojans in the Coliseum. USC is going for its seventh consecutive Pac-10 title, but must replace several key pieces and pray quarterback Mark Sanchez is ready to play against Ohio State.

Sept. 13: Georgia at South Carolina (3 p.m. ET)
Gamecocks coach Steve Spurrier loves beating the Bulldogs more than any other opponent. South Carolina's 16-12 win in Athens last season cost Georgia a chance to play for the SEC title and possibly a BCS championship. Another loss to the Gamecocks would probably all but end the top-ranked Bulldogs' championship hopes again.

Upset alert: Fresno State over Wisconsin (10:30 p.m. ET, ESPN2)


Week 4

Sept. 20: Georgia at Arizona State (8 p.m., ABC)
The Bulldogs make a rare trip west of the Mississippi River. The Sun Devils won 10 games in coach Dennis Erickson's first season, but they'll have to do a better job protecting quarterback Rudy Carpenter against Georgia's defense.

Sept. 20: Florida at Tennessee, (TBA)
The Gators blasted Tennessee 59-20 in the Swamp last season, one of the most embarrassing defeats in coach Phillip Fulmer's tenure. The Volunteers are flying under the radar in the SEC East, with nearly everyone focusing on Florida and Georgia.

Sept. 20: LSU at Auburn (TBA)
The third big SEC game of the weekend could decide which team wins the SEC West. It's a physical, close game each time these teams meet. Defending national champion LSU won 30-24 at Auburn last season.

Upset alert: Boise State over Oregon (3:30 p.m. ET)


Week 5

Sept. 27: Illinois at Penn State (8 p.m. ET)
The Illini beat the Nittany Lions 27-20 last season, one of the first big victories for coach Ron Zook. The winner of this year's game might challenge Ohio State and Wisconsin for Big Ten supremacy.

Sept. 27: Virginia Tech at Nebraska (TBA)
The Hokies are the first big test for new Cornhuskers coach Bo Pelini, who hopes to restore Nebraska's pride on defense. Defending ACC champion Virginia Tech must replace a boatload of talent on defense.

Upset alert: Oregon State over USC (Thursday, Sept. 25, 9 p.m. ET, ESPN)


Week 6

Oct. 2: Pittsburgh at South Florida (7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN)
The Thursday night game is the Panthers' first opportunity to prove they're finally ready to challenge for the Big East championship again. Pitt must slow down Bulls quarterback Matt Grothe; South Florida must contain tailback LeSean McCoy.

Oct. 4: Ohio State at Wisconsin (8 p.m. ET)
The Badgers get their chance to beat the Buckeyes in a night game at Camp Randall Stadium. Wisconsin was no match for Ohio State last season, losing 38-17 in Columbus.

Oct. 4: Oregon at Southern Cal (8 p.m. ET)
The Ducks beat the Trojans 24-17 in Eugene, Ore., last season and seemed to be on their way to winning the Pac-10 until quarterback Dennis Dixon blew out his knee. Each team has a new quarterback this season.

Upset alert: Rutgers over West Virginia (Noon ET)


Week 7

Oct. 9: Clemson at Wake Forest (7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN)
The Demon Deacons might be Clemson's stiffest competition in the ACC's Atlantic Division. Wake Forest coach Jim Grobe hopes his team puts up more of a fight than last season -- the Tigers won 44-10 at Death Valley.

Oct. 11: Texas at Oklahoma (Noon ET, ABC)
Oklahoma stopped a two-game losing streak to the Longhorns with a 28-21 victory in last season's Red River Rivalry. The Sooners have won six of their past eight games against Texas.

Oct. 11: LSU at Florida (TBA)
The past two national champions meet in the Swamp, with the Gators still smarting from last season's 28-24 loss in Baton Rouge. The Gators led for all but 1 minute, 9 seconds -- but somehow lost the game.

Oct. 11: Tennessee at Georgia (TBA)
The Volunteers routed Georgia 35-14 at Neyland Stadium last season, the last time the Bulldogs would lose in 2007. Tennessee won 51-33 at Sanford Stadium in 2006, becoming only the second opponent to ever score more than 50 points between the hedges.

Oct. 11: Arizona State at USC (TBA)
The Sun Devils were no match for the Trojans in 2007, losing 44-24 in Tempe. Arizona State might be USC's best competition in the Pac-10 this season.

Upset alert: Notre Dame over North Carolina (TBA)


Week 8

Oct. 16: BYU at TCU (8 p.m. ET)
If the Cougars are going to crash the BCS party, they'll have to get past the Horned Frogs, who failed to get to the BCS last season.

Oct. 18: Kansas at Oklahoma (TBA)
The Jayhawks didn't have to play Oklahoma or Texas while posting a 12-1 record in 2007. Kansas has to play both teams this season.

Oct. 18: Michigan at Penn State (4:30 p.m. ET, ESPN)
Rich Rodriguez takes his spread offense to Happy Valley for the first time, hoping his new quarterback will make the Nittany Lions not-so-happy.

Upset alert: South Carolina over LSU (TBA).


Week 9

Oct. 23: Auburn at West Virginia (7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN)
The Tigers make a rare trip near the Mason-Dixon Line in a battle of teams with BCS title aspirations. Mountaineers quarterback Pat White gets a chance to beat a team from his home state of Alabama.

Oct. 25: Georgia at LSU (TBA)
The Bulldogs and Tigers have played in two of the past five SEC championship games, and the winner of this game might jump in the driver's seat of the conference race.

Oct. 25: Texas Tech at Kansas (TBA)
Red Raiders coach Mike Leach takes his high-powered offense to Lawrence, Kan., for the first of two very difficult road games in Big 12 play.

Oct. 25: Penn State at Ohio State (8 p.m. ET)
The Nittany Lions might be one of only three Big Ten teams that can challenge the Buckeyes this season. Ohio State blasted Penn State 37-17 at Happy Valley last season.

Upset alert: Alabama over Tennessee (TBA)


Week 10

Nov. 1: Georgia vs. Florida (TBA)
The Bulldogs finally beat the Gators 42-30 last season, winning in Jacksonville, Fla., for only the third time in 18 meetings. Florida has its sights set on revenge after the Dogs danced in the end zone in one of the most bizarre moments in the storied rivalry.

Nov. 1: Clemson at Boston College (TBA)
The Eagles beat the Tigers 20-17 at Death Valley last season to win the ACC's Atlantic Division. Boston College coach Jeff Jagodzinski believes his team might be better than everyone else thinks.

Upset alert: Notre Dame over Pittsburgh (2:30 p.m. ET)


Week 11

Nov. 8: Alabama at LSU (TBA)
Crimson Tide coach Nick Saban returns to Baton Rouge, La., for the first time. The Tigers beat their former coach's team 41-34 in last season's meeting in Tuscaloosa, Ala.

Nov. 8: Cincinnati at West Virginia (TBA)
Pat White helped the Mountaineers run the Bearcats out of the Big East race last season by running for a pair of touchdowns in a 28-23 victory.

Nov. 8: Oklahoma State at Texas Tech (TBA)
After beating the Red Raiders 49-45 last season, Cowboys coach Mike Gundy screamed, "I'm a man!" After this year's meeting in Lubbock, Texas, Leach hopes he'll be able to scream, "I'm the man!"

Upset alert: California over USC (8 p.m. ET, ABC)


Week 12

Nov. 15: Ohio State at Illinois (TBA)
Last season, the Illini upset the Buckeyes 28-21 in Columbus, Ohio, nearly knocking Ohio State out of the BCS championship game. Coach Jim Tressel has to find a way to neutralize Illinois' spread offense.

Nov. 15: Georgia at Auburn (TBA)
The Tigers might be the last roadblock in Georgia's quest for a national championship. These teams have ended each other's championship hopes countless times during the Deep South's Oldest Rivalry.

Nov. 15: USC at Stanford (TBA)
The Cardinal stunned the Trojans 24-23 in the Coliseum last season, ending the Trojans' 35-game home winning streak.

Upset alert: South Carolina over Florida (TBA)


Week 13

Nov. 19: Ball State at Central Michigan (7 p.m., ESPN2)
The MAC's top two teams play in a game that might decide which team wins the MAC West. Central Michigan's Dan LeFevour and Ball State's Nate Davis are two of the most underrated quarterbacks in the country.

Nov. 22: Michigan at Ohio State (TBA)
Rodriguez can run for governor in Michigan if he ends the Wolverines' recent slide against Ohio State. The Buckeyes have won six of the past seven meetings.

Nov. 22: Texas Tech at Oklahoma (TBA)
The Red Raiders took a 27-7 lead in the first half of last season's 34-27 victory, beating the Sooners for the second time in a row at AT&T Jones Stadium. The loss knocked the Sooners out of the national championship race.

Upset alert: Utah over BYU (6 p.m. ET)


Week 14

Nov. 28: West Virginia at Pittsburgh (Noon ET, ABC)
Last season, the Panthers stunned the Mountaineers 13-9 in Morgantown, W. Va., knocking the Mountaineers out of the BCS championship game. The 101st meeting of the Backyard Brawl figures to be just as intense.

Nov. 28: Fresno State at Boise State (6 p.m. ET, ESPN2)
If the Bulldogs can get past a tough early schedule, which includes a road game at Rutgers and a home game against Wisconsin, they might still be in the BCS hunt when the play the Broncos on the blue turf.

Nov. 29: Kansas at Missouri (TBA)
The Tigers beat the Jayhawks 36-28 last season to win the Big 12 North. But Missouri still has revenge on its mind because Kansas received an at-large invitation to the Orange Bowl.

Upset alert: South Carolina over Clemson (TBA)


Week 15

Dec. 6: South Florida at West Virginia (TBA)
The Bulls and Mountaineers both climbed as high as No. 2 in the national rankings last season. Each team is good enough to get that high again this year.

Dec. 6: USC at UCLA (4:30 p.m. ET, ABC)
Bruins coach Rick Neuheisel gets an up-close look at the dynasty he must overcome in Los Angeles. It will probably take a couple of more years until he's ready to compete with the Trojans.

Upset alert: Arizona over Arizona State (TBA)