Cincinnati
Last Year
Despite the disappointing thrashing in the bowl game against Florida, last season was easily the best in the Bearcat's history. The offense was amazing, with the 24 points they scored in the bowl the least they scored all season. They were 4th in the nation in scoring with 38.6 ppg. Even when Tony Pike went down, Zach Collaros stepped in and was arguably even better. It wasn't all great though, with the defense falling asleep the last five games. They allowed an average of 12.9 ppg the first eight games, then 39.4 the last five. This tale of two defenses finally caught up with them in the bowl game. The offense also took some time to get going in some games before waking up in the second half.
Offense
Last year's coach Brian Kelly is one of the finest offensive minds in the game today, and it shows in his teams' successes. Unfortunately, coaches such as these don't stay put very long, and Kelly is no different, taking the top job at Notre Dame this season. Ironically, new coach Butch Jones replaced Kelly at Central Michigan when he took the Cincinnati job. Jones did an excellent job at CMU, making a fine QB of Dan LeFevour. He now gets to play with Collaros, who is a far better fit for the spread offense both he and Kelly favor than last year's QB Tony Pike was. Pike was excellent for the most part last year, throwing for 2520 yards and 29 TDs against a mere 6 Ints. When Pike was injured for 3½ games, Collaros stepped in and completed a superb 75% of his passes for 1434 yards and 10 TDs with only 2 Ints. He also ran for 344 yards and 4 TDs, including a 75 yarder. It will be interesting to see how Collaros performs this season now that opponents have had a good look at him. His backup is junior Chazz Anderson who has game experience and has played well. The Bearcats only ran for 139 ypg last season, but that was more due to a prolific passing attack, although on occasion the running game was shut down by strong defenses. Isaiah Pead came on strong last year, gaining 806 yards and 9 TDs at 6.7 a pop. He will get a lot more work this season if he can hold up. Last season's number 2 has graduated, so John Goebel will get some carries after missing most of last season due to injury. The offensive line returns three starters, LT Sam Griffin, LG Jason Kelce and RG Alex Hoffman. New C Evan Davis and RT CJ Cobb have plenty of experience and should have few problems stepping up this year. Big-play guy Mardy Gilyard is gone to the NFL, but Armon Binns (61-888-11) and DJ Woods (51-640-4) return at WR. Vidal Hazelton got lost in the shuffle at USC, but has transferred here and sat out last year. He is a former top recruit and should flourish in the wide open offense. TE Ben Guidugli (27-364-3) returns after being voted 2nd team Big East last year. Pead caught 20 passes and 2 TDs last season, and should see an increased role in 2010.
Defense
Fixing the defensive meltdown at the end of the season has to be top of the coaching staff's list this season, and with only five starters back, it may not happen this season. The line only returns one starter, Tackle Derek Wolfe, but he's a good one notching five sacks last season. Joining him will most likely be fellow junior John Hughes, who played well when called upon last season. The coaching staff must find a pass rusher to replace Alex Daniels 8.5 sacks at End last season. Dan Giordano was a regular in the rotation last season and played well. On the other side is probably sophomore Brandon Mills, who made the most of his limited opportunities last season. It is hoped these guys can play as well or better in an expanded role this season. The lack of experience could hurt though. JK Schaffer and Walter Stewart return to man the outside at Linebacker, and both have flashed great potential at times. Tennessee transfer Dorian Davis will man the middle, but he hasn't done much to date. Corner Dominique Battle and Safety Drew Frey return after solid seasons in '09, and they'll be joined by freshmen CB Cameron Cheatham and junior S Wesley Richardson. Expect Cheatham to be targeted early and often. Last season's defense wasn't particularly good, expect more of the same this season.
Special Teams
Jake Rogers has been merely average as both a kicker and a punter, and has been benefited by Cinci's prolific offense. If they struggle this season and Gs become more regular, Rogers might not be the man for the job. Patrick O'Donnell may take over the punting chores to allow Rogers to focus on his placekicking. The return teams were exceptional last season, but Gilyard was their main returner, so a capable replacement must be found. The coverage teams were pretty good too, particularly the kick squad.
Next Season
It would be a surprise if the Bearcats were to repeat last year's success, even with a breakout year from Collaros. This team is currently in a state of flux, particularly with the coaching change, but in saying that, a manageable schedule (only Oklahoma in OOC) means at least 8 wins and a bowl game is assured.
Connecticut
Last Year
Last season was overshadowed by the stabbing of starting corner Jasper Howard in October, but the team pulled through this admirably, a tribute to coach Randy Edsall. The Huskies had a solid 8-5 (3-4 Big East) last season and a bowl win over South Carolina, and their five losses were by a total of 15 points. They ran the ball successfully for the most part, with the two pronged attack of Jordan Todman and Andre Dixon (both 1000+ yards and 28TDs) doing the damage. The passing game improved as the season went on. The defense struggled against the better teams but 33 sacks and 25 turnovers kept them in games.
Offense
Zach Fraser started the season at QB and struggled until he got injured. Cody Endres stepped in and played well, and probably would have retained the starting job except he was lost for the season against Rutgers. Fraser returned and looked like a different QB, leading to team to a 4-1 finishing clip including the bowl win. This season both QBs return, with Fraser the likely starter. Dixon moves on this season, but leading rusher Todman (1188 yards and 14 TDs) returns. Tough FB Anthony Sherman will ope holes for him again in '10. Four linemen return to clear the way, including 1st Team Big East C Moe Petrus and RG Zach Hurd. RT Mike Ryan can play both tackle spots and LG will be a battle between Erik Kuraczea and Mathieu Olivier, both of whom started at times last season. The likely LT is sophomore Jimmy Bennett (a former top recruit). He missed spring camp with a knee injury though, but it is hoped he will be ready to go in September. This is potentially UConn's best line since moving up from the FCS. Neither of their starting wide receivers from last season return, and big play guy Marcus Easley will be a huge loss, but the returning players are experienced and solid. Michael Smith and Kashif Moore should be the nominal starters. Ryan Griffin caught 23 passes for 272 yards at TE last season and is more than good enough to improve in those numbers this season. He's also picked up his blocking. Todman is capable catching the ball out of the backfield. With eight starters back, and two experienced QBs, this unit is rock solid this season.
Defense
The defense also returns eight starters, including three quarters of their defensive line. Kendall Reyes and Twyon Martin return to man the middle, and Jesse Joseph is the returning End. Last year's starting MLB Greg Lloyd moves to DE this season. The coaching staff believe his speed and strength can cover the loss of Lindsey Witten's 11.5 sacks. Despite Lloyd's move, the linebacking corps returns two four year starters in Scott Lutrus and Lawrence Wilson. Lutrus takes over the middle, and '09 part-time starter Jory Johnson takes his spot on the outside. This is a good group. Last year's concern was the secondary, and that should be the case again this season. Sophomore Blidi Wreh-Wilson was forced into a starting corner spot prematurely to replace Howard, but the experience should stand him in good stead. The other starter will be fellow soph Dwayne Gratz, who gained some valuable experience playing in the Nickel D last season. Another sophomore, Jerome Junior, started 12 games at SS last season but moves over to Free in '10. Senior Kijuan Dabney would have played more last season if not for a shoulder injury. He takes over the SS slot. This is an experience unit outside of the secondary – if they can grow up fast, this could be a strong defense in '10.
Special Teams
Kicker Dave Teggart struggled last season (14/23 FGs) after a great freshman year, but it's unlikely he'll lose his job unless he completely falls apart in '10. Redshirt freshman Chad Christen takes over at punter. It remains to be seen whether he can maintain his HS success. Three different players had KR TDs last season (including Todman) and they all return so there's no concern there, but new PR is inexperienced. Kick coverage was poor last season, but punt coverage was excellent. There is plenty of room for improvement here.
Next Season
This team is in good shape with 16 returning starters this season, and is probably the most experience team in the Big East. Their OOC is very winnable (including a trip to struggling Michigan) and if the team can turn some of those close division losses into wins, they could be looking at a ten-win season. In fact, with the changes going on at other Big East programs, they've got to be considered (at least for now) contenders for the conference. His could be the year they finally get some FBS notice.
Louisville
Last Year
How the mighty have fallen! Was it really only four seasons ago that the Cardinals were a loss to Rutgers away from making the BCS game? What has happened since then that caused this fall from the heights. The answer is simple – Bobby Petrino. The coach's exodus to the NFL and rapid exit has been well documented. His replacement was Steve Kragthorpe, who had previously coached at Tulsa and was known as an offensive mastermind, which sat well with the Louisville faithful. So what went wrong? The answer is defense. Petrino's Louisville squads were strong defensively, something that was under-appreciated by alumni. So after three steadily worsening seasons, Kragthorpe was sent packing and ex-Florida defensive co-ordinator Charlie Strong has been brought in. The Cardinals weren't particularly competitive in '09, going 4-8 (1-6 Big East) and propping up the conference.
Offense
Strong intends to run a spread offense akin to that run in Florida, but may not have the pieces necessary to have any impact this season. Last season the Cards played three different QBs, none of who impressed. Best of the bunch was senior Adam Froman (60%, 1354 yds, 6 TDs and 5 INTs). He's the most mobile of the QBs, which suits the new offense, but any pass over 20 yards is an adventure. Will Stein played in four games last season and is faster than Froman, but freshmen Dominique Brown is a tough runner and may win the job at some stage. Louisville generally has decent RBs, and last season was no different. Victor Anderson is their top guy, but he was injured often last season and only gained 473 yards and 5 TDs. Darius Ashley filled in admirably, rushing for 462 yards and 4 TDs, while Bilal Powell came third with 392 yards and 4 TDs. The open spaces provided by the spread offense should give this trio ample opportunity to improve their yardage. Four starters return from an offensive line that allowed 37 sacks and opened holes for 3.5 ypc. These numbers just won't cut it, and no jobs are guaranteed. The starters most likely will be C Mario Benavides, Gs Mark Wetterer and Joe Evinger, and Ts Jeff Adams on the right and either Byron Stingily or Greg Tomczyk on the left. Top receiver Scott long has graduated, but Doug Beaumont (38-465-0) returns. Josh Chichester (17-202-2) will get one of the other WR slots, with either Stephon Ball (3-42-0) or Troy Pascley (3-30-0) taking the third spot. New coaches tend to favor their own recruits, so watch out for freshmen playing a big role here. TE Cameron Graham (27-323-2) is one of the best in the conference and should flourish in an offense that gets rid of the ball quickly. Look for this offense to run often and throw to Graham until Strong's recruits get their feet wet.
Defense
This is Strong's forte, and he did an amazing job (albeit with amazing talent) at Florida. He'll have to exhibit some patience with the holdovers from last year's squad, at least (as with the offense) until his own guys are ready to go. Only five starters return, including their four leading tacklers, leading sack guy and leading interceptor. Two starters return from a line that got shoved around too often in a conference with good running attacks. DT Greg Scruggs (4.5 tfls) and Malcolm Tatum are undersized but do play at a high tempo which will appeal to Strong. Joining them this season will be Tackle Tim High, who weighs 310, but has done little to date. The other end will be William Savoy, who had 5 sacks as part of the rotation last season. The linebackers should be good next season. Brandon Heath (48 tkls, 5.5 for loss and 2 INTs) is the only returning full-time starter, but Dexter Heyman and Antwon Canady have starting experience. Only one starter, CB Johnny Patrick (53 tkls and 2 INTs) returns from a secondary that struggled last season. Anthony Conner played okay in limited opportunities last season, and will man the other corner spot. Safeties will most likely be Terence Simien and Shenard Holton. Neither has a lot of experience and will be the weak spot. There is some talent here, but Strong will have his hands full trying to get them to make some stops.
Special Teams
Chris Philpott (5/5 FGs) took over during the season and did a good job. He looked good in spring camp too. Jon Payne takes over at Punter from the steady Cory Goettsche who graduated. Returner Tent Guy was excellent last season but unfortunately has graduated. Anderson and Beaumont are probably the best options to replace him, but as they are starters, another option may need to be found. Punt coverage was excellent last season, but kick coverage wasn't great. Special teams are especially important to struggling teams, but there's no guarantee they can match last year's production.
Next Season
Strong is a good coach and a good recruiter, but a winning season in '10 may be beyond them. OOC includes equally struggling Kentucky and always tough Oregon State, but the in-conference schedule is harsh this season, even with the changes in the other programs. If they can go 4-1 in OOC then they might eke out six wins, but that's about it for this season. Give them a couple of years though…
Pittsburgh
Last Year
After yearly calling for coach Dave Wannstedt's head the Panthers finally showed their mettle, coming within four points of the Big East title. A 10-3 season (5-2 Big East) included a surprising loss to North Carolina State and losing by 3 in the Backyard Brawl to West Virginia and by 1 to Cincinnati on a game they appeared to have well in hand. They also beat a good North Carolina team in their bowl game. Wannstedt is an excellent recruiter and this year finally showed the results of those good classes. They return many of last season's stars, including super RB Dion Lewis and pass rusher Greg Romeus. The offense and defense were both pretty consistent throughout for the most part, not really deviating too far from their average yardage gained or allowed. This suggests a consistent performance throughout, and this is essentially the truth. They were solid all year long, and their record reflects it.
Offense
Last year, the Panthers had their best total offense since '03 and their best running attack by far this decade. QB Bill Stull (65.1%, 2633 yards, 21 TDs and 8 INTs) really stepped it up last season and was rock solid, making the throws that needed to be made and avoiding any major mistakes. He won't be back this season unfortunately, so Tino Sunseri and Pat Bostick will battle for the job. Sunseri played well in limited opportunities last season (17-10-114-2-0) and is the favorite coming out of the spring, but Bostick has been around a while. Whoever wins the job will have the benefit of handing off to Lewis (325-1799-17), who not only smashed the Panthers' freshman rushing record, but had the second best season in Pitt history behind some guy named Dorsett! He was voted 2nd team All-American for his troubles, and the sky's the limit for him. Backing him up is Ray Graham (61-349-4) who played well when given the chance. He should get more carries this season to give Lewis a breather. Leading the way for them will be Henry Hynoski, a fine blocker who can also run and catch when required. A runner is only as good as his line, and last year's version was superb. Not only did they pave the way for 180 yards a game on the ground, they only allowed 15 sacks. Unfortunately, only Tackles Jason Pinkston and Lucas Nix return. The middle should be manned by senior C Alex Karabin, who plays regularly, and junior Gs Chris Jacobson and Greg Gaskins. They too played regularly last season. If they can hit the ground running, there should be little let down in '10. 6'5 Big play guy Jonathon Baldwin (57-1111-8) returns at receiver, and will be joined by fellow 6'5 Mike Shanahan (15-211-0). Manning the slot will be little guy Greg Cross (redshirted last year), who's only 6'2. This height advantage gives any QB an extra edge on errant passes. They lost both of last season's TEs who were big parts of the offense, and this year's starter will be Mike Cruz (1-2-1) who's a fine blocker but an average receiver. Virginia transfer Andrew Devlin could take his spot. Lewis caught 25 passes last season and should continue to be part of the passing game. This offense should continue to be potent this season.
Defense
The defense last year was tough against the run, but had a few hairy moments against the pass, especially early in the season. They return six starters from last season, including their two top-notch defensive ends. Greg Romeus will look to improve on his 8 sacks of last season – he is the reigning Big East defensive player of the year. On the other side is Jabaal Sheard who had 5 sacks. These two will encourage opposing passers to throw quickly in 2010. They are solid against the run too. Last year's DTs were excellent and will be sorely missed. Charged with replacing them will be Myles Caragein (35 tkls, 7.5 for loss) and either TJ Clemmings or Chas Alecxih (4 sacks). Clemmings is a freshman, but regardless of the combination they should be solid in the middle again. The starting OLBs Greg Williams and Max Gruder are back, and they combined for 124 tackles with 7.5 for loss last season. Stepping into the middle is sophomore Dan Mason (26 tkls, 2 sacks) who started three games last season hits like a train. Cornerback could be a problem as two new starters will need to emerge. Junior Antwuan Reed should take one slot, having played in 22 games over the last two years, while either JUCO Saheed Imoru or sometime-starter senior Ricky Gary will take the other side. It wouldn't be a surprise to see a frequent rotation here. Senior Dom DeCicco had 88 tackles and 3 picks last season and is a good one, and sophomore Jarred Holley started from week 5 on and had 48 tackles and another 3 INTs. The coaching staff hopes the pass rush can get after the QB enough to give the corners a chance to adjust to a full-time starting role. If it goes according to plan, this defense could be even better this season.
Special Teams
Dan Hutchins was the kicker and punter last season and had mixed results. He was solid as a kicker (23/29 FGs), including nailing a game-winner against UConn, but only averaged 41.1 as a punter with a meagre 34.5 net. Either he needs to improve in both areas, or someone needs to step up and take on the punting chores. Cameron Saddler was excellent returning kicks and nearly took a couple to the house, but Aaron Smith was not the answer at PR. Coverage teams were pretty good, although they could improve. As a whole this unit has to step it up in '10.
Next Season
This team is loaded. Wannstedt has holes to fill, but with the excellent recruiting classes he's pulled in, this is the most talented squad in the Big East. The other teams are going through major changes at skill positions, yet he has most of his guys back. If he doesn't win the Big East this year, the boo-birds will rear their ugly heads again. The OOC schedule includes always tough Utah, BCS outside shot Miami and Brian Kelly led Notre Dame. If he can pull off at least 4-1 here, and win the Big East, a major bowl could be in reach.
Rutgers
Last Year
The Scarlet Knights pulled off a 9-4 (3-4 Big East) season despite playing with a freshman QB and lacking a breakaway threat at RB. They managed this with an easy OOC schedule and a fine defense, coach Greg Schiano's speciality. Schiano has done a great job here, turning a moribund program from whipping boys to a bowl regular. They may have been ranked in the Top 10 in '06, but this may have been his best coaching job to date.
Offense
Tom Savage has gone from the youngest QB in the conference to the most experienced in just one season. In his 11 starts he completed 52.3% of his passes for 2211 yards with 14 TDs against just 7 picks. Obviously his accuracy needs to improve, something he didn't do over the course of the season, but he is smart with the football which helps. The running game really struggled last season, with their season average grossly inflated by running over weak teams. Joe Martinek ran hard all season, and was effective in the fourth quarter, but he's merely a banger. He will most likely be backed up (or replaced) by De'Antwan Williams (44-235-1) and the incoming freshmen. Fullback will probably be Edmond Laryea, although he's merely average. The line returns only two starters, LG Art Forst (1st team Big East) and C Howard Barbieri. Desmond Wynn has started some in the past and will probably play LT. Desmond Stapleton will probably play opposite him with Antwan Lowery at RG. This line could be reshuffled before the season starts. The excellent Tim Brown graduated last season but the Scarlet Knights appear to have a ready made replacement in Mohamed Sanu. In '09 he caught 51 passes for 639 yards and 3 TDs, but also played some QB in running formations, gaining 346 yards and scoring 5 TDs. He also threw a TD pass. This versatility will see him leaned upon even more next season. The problem is who will play opposite him. There are number of freshmen and sophomores waiting in the wings, but none have much experience, and this must be a concern going into fall camp. DC Jefferson returns at TE, but he only caught 5 passes last season. The ex-QB still has a lot to learn, but he has potential and should improve this season. Savage didn't throw to his backs much last season, but that may change as he becomes more experienced. This offense has way too many question marks to be much of a factor this season.
Defense
Schiano has done an excellent job with the defenses here, and he believes this year's could be his best yet. Last season the run defense ranked 15th nationally with a mere 103 yards per game (3 ypg!) and 16th in scoring at 17.9 ppg. The pass defense was rock solid too for the most part, and 40 sacks and 34 turnovers are worthy of note. The defense did tend to fall asleep on occasion, such as being gutted by Cincinnati in the opening game and run over by lowly Syracuse in a shock defeat. This will have to be corrected for next season. They return three starting linemen from '09, including both their tackles. Scott Vallone was a freshman All-American last season with 12.5 tfl, while Eric LeGrand had 5.5. End Alex Silvestro was 2nd team Big East with 42 tackles including 10 for loss, while this year's new starter Jonathon Freeny was also 2nd team Big East and had 9.5 sacks despite only starting one game. This is an excellent group to have up front and make life a lot easier for the Linebackers, only one of whom returns. Antonio Lowery had 55 tkls with 6.5 for loss in 9 starts last season and should improve on them this season. Steve Beauharnais will man the middle after a freshman season where he had 36 tackles and 5 sacks in part-time duty. Manny Abreu has played well when given the chance in the past, but this corps is the question mark pf the defense going into 2010. Last season's super corner Devin McCourty has gone to the NFL, but the secondary is still in good shape. David Rowe did a solid job on the other side and returns this season, and he should be joined by senior Brandon Bing. Any of this year's freshmen could steal the spot either. Joe Lefeged returns at Safety having started the last three years, and he'll be joined by Khaseem Greene who did a good job when given the chance. The linebackers will have time to gel with an easy OOC schedule, so this group could be even better this season. They may need to be with all the issues on offense.
Special Teams
Each kick by San San Te last season was an adventure, as he had a habit of slicing. However, after offseason surgery and some technical improvement in camp, it looks like he may actually have a good season. With a long of 49 in '09, his leg strength is not an issue. Punter Ted Dellaganna is one of the best in the conference, with a net of 36.9 and 26 inside the 20. Lefeged averaged 32.4 on 11 KRs and scored a TD last season, and should take on the job full-time in 2010. Sanu only averaged 3.9 per PR last year, so he either needs to drastically improve or be replaced. He definitely has the talent though. Coverage units were both excellent. This group should be better next season.
Next Season
Rutgers has had a tendency to choose easy OOC opponents recently, and this season is no different, the only exception being potential ACC champion North Carolina. They should go at least 3-1 heading into conference play. They also play Tulane, another likely victory. With the change going on in the conference they should easily make another bowl game, but I can't see them winning the conference title this year with the question marks on offense.
South Florida
Last Year
USF roared out the gate last season, easily dispatching their first three fours by 20+ points each. Unfortunately they lost Matt Grothe for the season in Week 3 to a torn ACL, but appeared to have little let-down with freshman BJ Daniels at the helm and dispatching then #18 Florida State 17-7 in Tallahassee. They were 5-0 and ranked #21 going into the Cincinnati game and even went toe-to-toe with them in the first half before the wheels fell off the wagon. BJ Daniels began to mix flashes of brilliance with typical rookie mistakes as the team went 2-5 before beating MAC opponent Northern Illinois in their bowl game. If Daniels can cut out the mistakes he has a bright future – when he was on form, he was great. But the offense lived and died on his performance. The defense was fast and tough as usual, although they wore down in games when the offense didn't pull its weight. Then in the off-season, the Bulls only head coach Jim Leavitt was fired. He has done a good job building this program, but the new man in charge is ex-East Carolina and Connecticut coach Skip Holtz. He has done a good job in the past (72-50 record) and arrives at a time when South Florida are competing with the other Florida schools for top recruits. If he can continue building from were Leavitt left off, a Big East championship could be just around the corner.
Offense
Matt Grothe, who seems to have played here since the program started, has finally run out of eligibility after a fine career. This is now Daniels gig and he actually had a decent first season, completing 53.7% of his passes for 1983 yards with 14 TDs and 9 picks. He also ran for 772 yards and 9 TDs, leading the team in rushing. He often tried too hard to make a play, hanging onto the ball for too long and taking sacks (35) or forcing it and being intercepted. On occasion though he looked brilliant, making defenders look stupid with some instant replay-worthy moves. The Bulls finally gave up on Mike Ford and sent him packing, leaving Moise Plancher (129-581-5) as the probable starter. He hasn't proven he can carry the load, so a committee approach is likely. Backing him up will be a host of freshmen. Watch out for JUCO Michael Hayes though – he helped Blinn CC to a JC championship and is the type of heavy-duty ball carrier USF have lacked since Andre Hall graduated. Whoever has the ball will have an excellent line blocking for him. Four out of five linemen return, with Zach Herrmann the odd man out due to retirement. C Sampson Genus, Gs Chaz Hine and Jeremiah Warren and T Jake Sims all return to clear the way. The "new" member is Jamar Bass who actually started six games last season. Receiver could be a problem area though. Carlton Mitchell has gone to the pros, and potentially great AJ Love (26-489-4) tore his ACL in the spring and will most likely miss the season. Dontavia Bogan (22-305-4) returns to man one spot, but the other two appear up for grabs. RB Lindsey Lamar has been tried there in camp and has looked pretty good, and backup QB Evan Landi may also be moved to WR, but this area remains a question mark. Jeff Hawkins should be the starting TE in '10. He needs to improve his blocking, but he's a good enough receiver to act as a safety valve for Daniels. The RBs are hardly used in the passing game, although that may change with a new offensive system in place.
Defense
The normally staunch defense could be in trouble this year. Only three starters return from a unit that was gutted by graduation and the NFL Draft. George Selvie and Jason Pierre-Paul will be missed at DE, but the line has capable replacements, and also returns under-rated Terrell McClain (25 tkls, 3.5 for loss) at DT. Fellow Tackle Keith McCaskill started five games last season and can get the job done. At one end spot should be David Bedford who has started three games over the past couple of years, while the other spot will be manned by either Craig Marshall (39 tkls and 5 sacks in two years) or redshirt freshman Ryne Giddins. These are all quick, athletic players in the USF mould. Sabbath Joseph (48 tkls, 4 for loss) returns at WLB, and he'll be joined by Sam Barrington (41 tkls,2 for loss) who made the Big East Freshman team despite only starting one game, and Jacquian Williams who had 28 tackles in spot duty last season. This should be a good crew in '10. Quenton Washington returns and mans one corner spot and he'll be joined by Kayvon Webster, who started six games as a freshman and had 30 tkls and 2 picks. Fellow sophomore Jon Jejiste or Jerrell Young (who started 6 games before injury) will start at SSm while Mistral Raymond will take over the FS spot after starting four games last season. This group has experience and could be tough to pass on. If last year's part-time starters can maintain their level of play over the course of the season, the defense should be excellent. If not, the better start scoring some points on offense.
Special Teams
Eric Schwartz was okay last season, making 11 of 16 FGs including a 50 yarder. But he may be replaced by Maikon Bonani who missed the season due to injury and made 15 of 21 FGs the year before. A new punter needs to be found, and the expectations are for Justin Brockhaus-Kann to take the job. He had an outstanding HS career but redshirted last year. Bogan was okay returning kicks but can do better, while Faron Hornes really needs to improve his PRs or lose his job. Kick coverage was good last season, but punt coverage was weak allowing 21 yards per return and a TD. Improvement is a must in this department.
Next Season
The Bulls tend to start to start fast then suffer a late season swoon, and lose to at least one team they probably shouldn't. Holtz needs to correct this to take the Bulls to their Promised Land of a Big East title. Three of their OOC opponents are shoo-in victories, but they also include rebuilding Florida and Miami (Fl). If they can find some receivers and get the running games going, this could be their year. 8-5 and another middle tier bowl as usual will be the most likely result.
Syracuse
Last Year
Greg Robinson turned Syracuse from a Big East contender to a bottom-dweller in very few seasons. The team had dipped in previous seasons, and Robinson was trying to install a new offensive system which can take time. The team never really improved (10-37) and he recruited badly, leading to his firing at the end of the '08. Step forward Doug Marrone, just their sixth head coach in 47 years. With a pretty bare cupboard, Marrone fashioned a 4-8 (1-6 Big East) record and had the team punching above their weight in most games. Beyond RB Delone Carter, the Orange beat Rutgers and Northwestern, and their defense allowed just 101.8 ypg rushing, thanks in no small part to Arthur Jones (now with Baltimore). This was 87 ypg less than last year. Their secondary was still weak, but 35 sacks and 15 INTs helped out.
Offense
Here's the bad news – the offense returns two of last year's starters, and star Carter may not be back due to legal difficulties. At QB Ryan Nassib is the most likely starter after playing in nine games as a freshman and threw for 422 yards (52.9%) with 3 TDs and an INT. Redshirt freshman Charley Loeb will back him up if he doesn't steal the starting gig. If Carter is out, Antwon Bailey will be the most likely replacement after coming second on the team with 312 yards and a TD last year. It's unknown whether he can carry the load, and there is little experience beyond him. It might be academic (no pun intended) that the line only returns one starter, C Ryan Bartholomew. Three of the four new starters – Gs Andrew Tiller and Adam Rosner, and T Josh White all have starting experience. The other T will probably be JUCO Michael Hay, but he could be pushed by redshirt freshman Justin Pugh. Marcus Sales (28-324-3) and Alec Lemon (29-295-1) return at receiver and will likely be joined on the starting roster by Aaron Weaver, a transfer from Hofstra who 1416 yards in three years there. This isn't a great group but are functional, although Lemon has potential. At TE Nick Provo should return from injury to beat out the more experienced Jose Cruz. He'll provide a decent safety valve for Nassib. Carter wasn't used much as a receiver last season, but that could change with whoever is the back this season. If Carter is back the offense might do enough to pull off a few wins, if not, this could be a long season for Marrone.
Defense
The defense returns ten starters from last year's squad, and should be a better unit for it. Tackle Andrew Lewis will be joined this season by either JUCO Deon Goggins or senior Bud Tribbey whi has starting experience. They should remain tough in the middle. At End Mikhail Marinovich (3 sacks) and Chandler Jones (52 tkls, 8.5 for loss) are excellent run-stuffers but don't provide much in the way pf pass rush. That comes from speedy LBs Derrell Smith and Doug Hogue who combined for 154 tackles, 10.5 for loss and 16 sacks. The other starter, EJ Carter, had 24 tackles and 2 sacks in 8 starts last season. The secondary actually returns 5 players with plenty of starting experience from last season. Kevyn Scott (22 tkls, 2 INTs) mans one corner, while Mike Holmes (77 tkls, 3 INTs) will take the other if he doesn't slide over to FS. If he does, ex-WR Da'Mon Merkerson will step in. He started 7 games at corner in '09. Max Suter (71 tkls and a pick) returns to the SS spot, and if Holmes stays at corner, Shamarko Thomas should step in at FS after 41 tackles with 5.5 for loss last season. The defense should be better for the experience of playing together last season, but the secondary in particular lacks any real star-power and could struggle again. In saying that, there is little experience at QB in the conference, so they may do some damage in '10.
Special Teams
Ryan Lichtenstein earned a scholarship after walking on as kicker and doing a fine job (13/17 FGs),while Punter Rob Long is one of the best in Big East averaging 43.8 gross, 36.1 net and dropping 25 inside the 20. He may be playing on Sundays in 2011. They need new returners, although Suter averaged 25.5 on 51 KRs as a freshman and may do so this season. Whoever returns punts must do better than Donte Davis' 6.9 average in '09. Coverage teams need to be improved too after probably costing them the Louisville game last season.
Next Season
The OOC schedule is a mixed bag of should-wins (Akron, Maine and Colgate) to probably-wonts (Washington and Boston College). The Big East is in a state of flux this season with most teams suffering key graduations, and a 3-2 record in OOC could see them win 6 games and maybe get a bowl berth. They have to sort out the offense though, the defense isn't good enough to win games on it's own next season.
West Virginia
Last Year
Bill Stewart's done a fine job here replacing Rich Rodriguez, going 9-4 (5-2 Big East) in each season. Last season they ended up ranked #24, but lost 30-19 to USF and 24-21 to champs Cincinnati, either of which could have earned them the conference crown. The team was spearheaded by RB Noel Devine who has been everything the team hoped for when they signed him as one of the top recruits in the country in '07. However, despite being one of the top rushing teams in the nation, they struggled to scoring points at key times. The normally strong defense tended to disappear in the redzone too.
Offense
Jarrett Brown was okay last season after taking over from WVU hero Pat White, but was better at making the right reads in the run game than racking up stats. He's moved on this year, but the team really likes sophomore Geno Smith (65% 309 yds, TD and INT) who played in 5 games last season and was a top recruit. He better come up with the goods, because there's no experience behind him. "Coming up with the goods" means feeding Devine the ball. Last season he ran for 1465 and 13 TDs and carried the load despite weighing in at 180 lbs. He's lightning fast and is a big play waiting to happen. The FB and short yardage guy is Ryan Clarke, who gained 250 yards and scored 8 TDs. The coaching staff does a good job of recruiting players who fit their system, so they have a plethora of capable backs waiting in the wings for their chance. The offensive line loses Selvish Capers but otherwise returns intact. Jeff Braun and Matt Timmerman will battle to replace him. This is a good line that, while it isn't particularly strong, carries out the assignments in their sleight-of-hand offense effectively. Jock Sanders returns to man the slot again this season. He did a great job last year catching 72 passes for 688 yards and 3 TDs, and rushing for 175 yards and another score. Joining him should be regulars Brad Starks (29-405-2) and Tavon Austin (15-151-1). This unit should at least be effective as last year's. When they use a TE, Tyler Urban will be the man after catching 10 passes in limited opportunities last season. Devine caught 22 passes in '09 and should at least match that number again this year.
Defense
This defense was tough for most of the year, but struggled down the stretch with the title on the line. They also only recovered six opponents' fumbles, which needs to be drastically improved. Ten starters return, so if they tighten up, this could be the best unit in the Big East. All three of their linemen return (they run a 3-3-5) in DE Julian Miller (53 tackles, 5 for loss and 9 sacks), DT Scooter Berry (only 15 tkls due to injury) and Chris Neild (35 tkls). Josh Taylor filled in capably for Berry when he was injured. If this group stays healthy this year, they're potentially the best line in the Big East. At LB, Pat Lazear (78 tkls, 5 for loss), JT Thomas (76 tkls, 6.5 for loss and 2 INTs) and new but experienced starter Anthony Leonard (23 tkls with 2 for loss in part-time duty last season. The Cornerbacks, Keith Tandy (61 tkls and 3 INTs) and Brandon Hogan (74 tkls, 11 PBUs) are solid, and FS Robert Sands (65 tkls, 8 PBUs and 5 Ints) is excellent. BS Sidney Glover (60 tkls, 5.5 for loss) is also fine but their new SS Terence Garvin is inexperienced. Regardless this should be a great unit in '10.
Special Teams
Kicker Tylan Bitancurt (13/15 FGs) is rock solid, but a new Punter is needed. Alabama transfer Corey Smith is favorite to take the job, although he hasn't punted in the NCAA yet. Austin (17-426-1) is an excellent KR, and Devine and Sanders can pitch in too. Sanders was only okay at PR (8.6 ypr) last season. Kick coverage was poor last season, but punt coverage was good. There is work to be done on this unit for next season.
Next Season
WVU have a relatively easy OOC, apart from a trip to take on Louisiana State. A win isn't beyond them here, although it won't be easy, but they should start conference play at least 4-1. This could be the Mountaineers' chance to get back to the top of the Big East, as they are one of the most experienced teams. Their biggest game is the Backyard Brawl against Pittsburgh on 26th November. Assuming they haven't lost any games they shouldn't, this should be the Big East decider. If they can beat LSU (albeit with a new QB) and win the Big East they could be in the National Championship reckoning. 9 or 10 wins is a certainty though.
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