College Football 2005-2006 Preview

[JohnBM01]

This is John M. of Houston, TX, USA. This thread is all about what we may expect to see in 2005 and 2006. GTPlanet, if it's one thing I've enjoyed each weekend during college football season, it was covering all the games and giving you all the scores. I don't have big news on Division 1-AA, Division 2, or Division 3, but I will cover the games based on scores I see in the media. Many of my sources will come from networks such as ESPN, ESPNEWS, ESPN2, ABC, Fox Sports Net Southwest (here locally), and whomever else. A majority of my scores come from ESPNEWS and televised highlights. Here's how I do scores:

"Title" (Away Team) @ (Home Team)
(Story) (Final Score; winning team in bold)

Now let's take a look at some of last year's highlights. * Last year, Auburn was beating teams left and right in the SEC. However, the Auburn Tigers were relegated to the Sugar Bowl as Southern California and Oklahoma played in the national title game. * Also shafted was Texas. The Longhorns ripped a sensational season losing only to Oklahoma. They headed to the Rose Bowl where they beat Michigan (who they faced for the first time, by the way) in a hell of a game. * Ever heard of Utah's football program? Yeah, "who's Utah?" They also finished undefeated. Urban Meyer went from the Utah Utes to the Florida Gators. Utah had a dream season being undefeated even in a BCS Bowl game where they beat Pittsburgh's Panthers. * The Miami Hurricanes are one of the best teams in America, but they lose in upsets to Clemson in Overtime at home, and North Carolina in a road game. Yes! The 2004-2005 NCAA Men's Basketball Champions North Carolina knocked off Miami. I often joke about Tar Heels, but they had a great football season knocking off another bigtime football team, the NC State Wolfpack. * Another big highlight was something that hasn't happened since 1978- when Florida, Florida State, and Miami all lost in the same weekend. * The state of Texas really wanted to make a bold move by having its 1-A teams not compete in the postseason if a playoff isn't set up. Texas's talent includes Texas, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, Houston, Texas-El Paso, Baylor, TCU, SMU, just to name a few. * Speaking of the "BCS BS," now teams won't be ranked until Game 4 according to a new poll system whose name fails me right now.

College Football 2005-2006 Preview. Care to contribute? Go ahead. By the way, Missouri won't start with one of their players. A 19-year old died during involuntary training, I beleive.

 

[JohnBM01]

I believe Arrowhead Pond hosted a lot of the Big XII championship games. Now that I look at it, I've always thought the Big XII was a pure football conference. That can be said for Texas, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State is good, Kansas State, Missouri, and Nebraska. Of them, Kansas State had the worst result at 4-7. I think Darren Sproles left the Wildcats for the NFL, so they'll be on the hot seat to do better without Sproles. Sonny Cumbie was a pretty good Texas Tech QB as was Vince Young. Texas felt snubbed as they played Michigan in the Rose Bowl instead of a playoff deal against USC or Auburn. I respect Texas A&M. One of my favorite games from last season was Oklahoma/Texas A&M. No, not 2003's 77-0 slaughter against Texas A&M, but the one that actually was a GAME. Texas A&M is a good team, and I've never really doubted them (except when the Aggies have to play Texas Tech and Texas). Why haven't I mentioned Baylor? Well, I think they are like Kansas- better in basketball. But does it mean that I count out both Kansas and Baylor? I'm not looking for any upsets, but they are still pretty good teams.

One thing concerns me here in Texas. I know there was that issue earlier this year when Texas wanted a playoff system in Division 1-A college football, or Texas schools will pull from the postseason. I don't know how that is all going, so if Texas teams likst most of the Big XII south, the WAC teams, the Conference USA teams, all the Texas talent in Division 1-A will likely not see Texas in the bowl games.

By the way, one thing I forgot to share is that the Big XII Championship game will take place at Reliant Stadium this year. I've been at Reliant Stadium, and while it seems pretty small inside, I seen a Division 1-AA game between SWAC stars Southern and Prarire View A&M. I can imagine what it's like at Reliant Stadium when the Texans have home games there. It's an awesome place if you ask me. That's what I tried to mention in my first paragraph.

Any of you others want to share your views on the upcoming college football season? Any conference, any division, any university or college. Share your views.

 

[DavidRoy90]

Great forum.

 

[Joey D]

I'm still a huge Michigan fan, since my college doesn't have a football team (our basketball team is great though...Oakland University Golden Grizzley) anyways I'm a Michigan fan and I'm hoping for the best this year. They need that title.

 

[JohnBM01]

On ESPNEWS' "The Hot List," the SEC Football Media day was on the air. Last year, I followed the Tennessee Volunteers, so I have some knowledge of this school's history. Phillip Fulmer, the Vols' head coach, had a record of 123-31 after coaching the Volunteers for over 13 seasons. I really enjoyed the game between Auburn at Tennessee. I even like the "Rocky Top" fight song. Plus, if you're not sporting Volunteer Orange, you're likely to be hated on by well over 100,000 fans filling up Neyland Stadium. They play September 3rd against Alabama-Birmingham (UAB) at Tennessee. Fulmer is 39-13 in last four seasons as Tennessee's coach. After UAB, the team's schedule goes like this: Florida*, LSU*, Ole Miss, Georgia, Alabama*, South Carolina, Notre Dame*, Memphis, and rivals Vanderbilt. The games with asterisks (*) are Away games. The only fear Mr. Fulmer has is that some of his players have been involved in surgeries and injuries.

Why should you care about the Southeast Conference? Remember Auburn? They were undefeated in the regular season, won the SEC Championship game in Atlanta against Tennessee (meaning they beat the Vols TWICE), and where did they end up? The Sugar Bowl. Not against USC, not against Oklahoma, they played in New Orleans and not Miami. Many upset Auburn Tiger fans felt that Auburn deserved better. In my view, they really did deserve better. A BCS Bowl Game is always good, but I'd agree that a playoff of some sort would have came down to Auburn vs. USC, or Auburn vs. Oklahoma.

Outside of Auburn and Tennessee, there are still some good talent in the SEC. In fact, almost all of the SEC is pure talent. You look at LSU, Florida, South Carolina, and of course Georgia. Ole Miss is a solid team as is Mississippi State. MSU pulled off that upset against Florida when MSU played at home to the Gators. Hey Alabama! I think the Crimson Tide will wash away its competition. I'd probably go on a limb to announce my favorites to play in the SEC Championship game. My favorites are Auburn, Tennessee, Georgia, and I'll even throw in Florida. I'm predicting any two of these four teams will likely be in the title game.

 

[JohnBM01]

If I look to anything involving Wolverines football, it has to be the annual Ohio State/ Michigan game. If my parents take me out on the road, I'll be sure to get me a radio and listen to this year's game. Speaking of the Big Ten, the Big Ten Media Day will take place on ESPNEWS. Some of my favorites in the Big Ten have to include Michigan, Michigan State, Ohio State, even the team who upset LSU in a Bowl game, Iowa. Kind of dark horses would be Wisconsin, Purdue, and Penn State. The Big Ten is solid in football.

Also speaking of the Big Ten, I thought Ohio State was going to blow out Northwestern. As it turned out, the Northwestern Wildcats pulled off a monumental upset over the Buckeyes. * Has anyone seen last season's Michigan/Michigan State game? It was a completely AWESOME game that took three overtimes to complete. This was back during Week 10 of last year's season. Last year's Michigan/Michigan State game was amazing. I don't know if Timmy Chang of Hawaii got signed up in the NFL Draft or not, but it would surely be interesting to see the Asian-American in the NFL. If so, he'd be the first-ever Asian-American quarterback, not to mention the only other Asian player other than Dat Nguyen of the Dallas Cowboys, who should be in his 9th Season in the NFL, granted he's still playing for the 'boys.

I do see Michigan continuing their success. I don't think Michigan really has dismal seasons. Ann Arbor is college football heaven (unless you attend college in Ohio State, Michigan State, Wisconsin, Minnesota, or even Iowa). They are solid even in losing efforts. I don't see them running down the leaderboard this coming season.

 

[Joey D]

Did I see the Michigan/Michigan State game? Hell ya I saw it I was there . My buddy has season tickets so naturally I bought one off of him and went. That was some amazing football, and hopefully I can score tickets again this year. I try to make it out to 2 or 3 U of M games a year or even MSU games since Ann Arbor is about an hour away and East Lansing is about the same.

I'm excitied for the season to start, I enjoy watching NCAA more then the NFL. Well also I do enjoy a nice wager on the games to.

And while I'm still a huge U of M fan, I still respect Ohio State for some of the games they play.

 

[JNasty4G63]

Sorry Blaz, but my Hawks are going to rule the B10 this year. We actually have a running game, Tate is back again, and Ferentz just kicks ass, plain and simple. I don't want to go all the way and say Nat. Champs just yet, but don't be shocked when Iowa is WAAAAY up the list this year.

GO HAWKS!!!

Hilg

 

[JohnBM01]

I believe in my game reports on this forum, Iowa COULD have been the Big Ten champs. With a little help, Michigan won the Big Ten title and played in at the beautiful Rose Bowl, where they'd lose to the Texas Longhorns in a hell of a battle. Texas ripped the long field goal to win over the Wolverines.

On to the Big XII. You already know I'm going to have Texas as big favorites. Texas may have an easier ride against the Oklahoma Sooners this season as Jason White isn't the QB. I don't know if Antonio Perkins got drafted or not, but with the stars of Saturday got drafted to play on Sundays and Monday Night, who knows what the Longhorns can muster? Most of the Big XII's talent is in Texas, that being Texas, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, and even Baylor. I still think Baylor is a basketball school, but anyone who upsets Texas A&M is pretty good. I know the players are practicing, but I hope the 12th Man trains for another series of great home games at Kyle Field. I was so impressed with Texas last season. I was about to lose my mind if the Longhorns would lose to Kansas. Turns out, the Texas QB was on a 4th and 18 deep in the Fourth Quarter, got the first down and prevented a scare. Also, Oklahoma State was beating down Texas like, what? 35-7? It wasn't until Texas reversed the blowout by KILLING Oklahoma State at game's end.

Allow me to introduce the Pac-10 to this thread now. I never expected the USC Trojans to beat the holy crap out of the Oklahoma Sooners, but they did in the 2005 Orange Bowl. This was even counting Ashlee Simpson getting booed right out of Miami during the halftime. Matt Leinart wanted to stay an extra year, all the while chasing another Heisman and maybe another championship for the University of Southern California. I don't know very much about California, so I can't really say the Golden Bears are one to watch. Stanford might be trouble in the Pac-10, but I don't see Arizona being a power. Arizona State is better than the Arizona Wildcats, and I don't see Arizona State being upset by Arizona. Oregon- worst uniforms in college football EVER! Their football is good, though. Oregon State is a bit better than the Ducks, as are the Washington State Cougars (ugliest logo ever). Tyrone Willingham better improve the Washington Huskies after their 1-10 season. Any more?

 

[JNasty4G63]

Yea, Michigan and Texas was an awesome Rose Bowl, for sure. We had a great Capitol One bowl as well. We beat LSU on the very last play, Tate threw a 55yd bomb to Holloway and we walked off winners. It was awesome.

But, I still stand by what I said. This season coming up, Iowa will dominate the Big 10. We have everything in line for once, and looking real good. Watch for it.

Hilg

 

[JohnBM01]

GTPlanet, in an effort to bring in as many conferences as I can for discussion, I've brought in the Big XII, the Big Ten, Pac-10, the SEC, now I'd like to bring in... Conference USA. Here locally, I'm already supporting my brother's alma mater, Houston. But Houston has had a 3-8 season, losing to teams like Louisville, Oklahoma, Miami (FL), among others. For Cougars fans, that's disappointing considering that back in 2003, they made it to the Hawai'i Bowl to face the Hawaii Warriors of the WAC. You remember the 2003 Hawai'i Bowl? It was a triple-overtime thriller. Hawaii won the game, Houston won the big brawl after the game .

Conference USA will have its inaugural conference championship this season. Here is the C-USA lineup for the Conference USA championship:

C-USA WESTERN CONFERENCE:
Houston
Rice*
SMU (Southern Methodist U.)
Tulane
Tulsa*
UTEP* (U. of Texas-El Paso)
C-USA EASTERN CONFERENCE:
East Carolina
Marshall*
Memphis
Southern Miss
UAB (U. of Alabama-Birmingham)
UCF (U. of Central Florida)

* = new to C-USA

If you live in Houston, you'll now be able to have some fun by watching Houston and Rice go at it sometime during Thanksgiving weekend. Houston and Rice are now conference rivals apart from their past C-USA vs. WAC days. Of course, conference games are played a bit later in the season. Some missing names include Louisville, Cincinatti, South Florida, and maybe one more name that may fail me right now. Care to discuss C-USA? You have my word. Their Media Blitz is Aug. 1st.

 

[JohnBM01]

BIG TEN Media Day, folks. I missed Media Day coverage (asleep), so it wasn't until ESPNEWS got me back in tune with this. To keep the Big Ten moving, here are items I've heard discussed.

Ever heard of the Big Ten? Well, here's a hint. One of college football's grandest rivals, Michigan and Ohio State, play every year in the biggest college football battle. Ann Arbor vs. Columbus. Two football powerhouses going at it. Yeah, NOW you remember the Big Ten. Having said that, the Big Ten is Michigan, Michigan State, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Indiana, Illinois, Northwestern, Penn State, Iowa, Ohio State, and Purdue. * Iowa is told to be a bigtime dark horse and a potential BCS buster. They, of course, landed the upset over the LSU Tigers in the Capital One Bowl. Or for Iowa fans, the "Captial OWNAGE Bowl." I'm going to tell you, I think Iowa can be a pretty good bet for high placement in the Bowl Games, perhaps even be invited to a BCS Bowl Game. * Ohio State kind of fell apart last season, and it all began with Northwestern, then I think they'd lose three straight until winning. In the Big Ten, this is probably the biggest upset in the Big Ten. I'm talking about in in-conference play. * Wisconsin's Barry Alvarez is planning to step down as head coach of the Badgers. His record with the Badgers is 108-70(?)-4. *
After his time with the Florida Gators, Ron Zook is the new head coach of the Illinois Fighting Illini.

GTPlanet, we obviously know the biggest Big Ten game each year is Ohio State vs. Michigan. But here are some big games coming up involving Big Ten Teams:

Bowling Green at Wisconsin
Notre Dame at Michigan
Texas at Ohio State

My commentary in the next post on these three games, even my picks.

 

[JohnBM01]

As promised, my picks on these games ESPNEWS suggested about the Big Ten games.


Bowling Green at Wisconsin
* Bowling Green is a solid MAC team, but I'd give the edge to the Wisconsin Badgers.
(My Guessed Score: 35-7; Wisconsin)

Notre Dame at Michigan
* Are you kidding me? Wolverine BEATDOWN! I'm not completely counting out the Fighting Irish though. If Weiss can make them stars, I bet he can do it.
(My Guessed Score: 42-14; Michigan)

Texas at Ohio State
* This is the most interesting game of the three non-conference games. For Texas, they knocked off one bigtime Big Ten team, but this is the only deadlock I can see.
(My Guessed Score: 31-28; OT; Texas)

Carry on...

 

[Earth]

I devote every Saturday during college football season to watching every game I can

Sort of pathetic, huh

9am rise

10 am watch college football countdown

12-9 pm watch college football

9 pm sleep

Now that you know how much I follow college football I'll get into more things later.

 

[JohnBM01]

In talking about college football, there was a team I've always mocked for fun. No, not Syracuse. Notre Dame. Earlier, it was Tyrone Willingham. Now, it's Charlie Weiss to take command of the blue and gold. I really think Notre Dame may have a good chance with Weiss. Charlie Weiss was part of the 21st Century NFL dynasty, the New England Patriots. Now he's commanding the blue and gold in a return to glory. Do I like their chances? I don't really follow Notre Dame like I tried to follow Tennessee last year. If I had to predict, I'd predict the Fighting Irish will make a Bowl Game appearance. I'll guess their record will be 8-3 and probably win their Bowl Game. If you're in college football, one of the signs of a good season is being able to play in a bowl game. Signs of the BEST season would be to play in New Orleans (Sugar Bowl), Pasadena, CA, USA (Rose Bowl), Tempe, AZ (Fiesta Bowl), or Miami (Orange Bowl).

As far as Washington goes, do you think Tyrone Willingham can help the ailing Washington Huskies? The Washington Huskies finished 1-11. I believe they were co-national champions back in 1991, so it's been about 14 years since championship gold. I don't really think they can compete for a national title, but I'd like them to at least have a good record in the Pac-10. Speaking of the Pac-10, unless USC just completely falls apart, I got USC. Second choices would probably be Oregon State, maybe California, maybe even (don't laugh) UCLA or Arizona State.

Coast-to-coast the old fashioned way, yes?

 

[Klostrophobic]

I'm excited to see BC in the ACC this year. I hear Will Blackmon (CB for BC) will see some action at WR this year.

And Mathias Kiwunaka (that has to be wrong) is going to destroy opposing linemen this year. ACC beware.

Charlie Weiss was hanging around at Patriots practice a few days ago.

 

[JohnBM01]

Perhaps my fondest memory when Boston College comes to mind was that ever-famous Hail Mary Doug Flutie threw up to knock off the Miami Hurricanes in 1984, a year after I was born. Now that you mention it, Klostrophobic, it would be nice to see Boston College vs. Miami (FL) this year in in-conference play. Boston College is a great football team, but their basketball program was pretty dominant until they lost in their 20 or so win streak.

Speaking of Miami, what's happened to Miami? I remembered watching the 2003 national title game (Ohio State vs. Miami). The game was a triple-overtime thriller, and I thought there were some bad calls and Miami should have won. However, the Buckeyes won it all. I think Miami is a great team, maybe the greatest in the country. The 5-time national champions lost against two teams I'd thought Miami would have, could have, should have won. But as with everything in college football, nothing is a given. I think the worst of the two teams I have in mind (North Carolina and Clemson), had to be the loss to North Carolina. North Carolina has some history, and I usually knock on North Carolina in football. But to see that long field goal kick to knock off Miami in Chapel Hill, NC, USA, that field goal kicker had to be the big man on campus. Clemson is a good team themselves. The Tigers were once national champions. Had they not have their altercation, they would have seen Bowl Game action.

I've been thinking. The Big East conference gets a BCS Bowl Tie-In. Do you think the Big East STILL deserves a BCS Bowl Tie-In, or should some other conference get one? Or should there be tie-ins for BCS Bowls?

 

[Earth]

I found it funny that Texas thought they should have a shot at USC.

They lost to Oklahoma 19-0

Oklahoma lost to USC 55-19

Why should they be given a shot?

USC finished the season undefeated. Texas lost a game. If anybody Auburn should have a shot. They should be happy with their Rose bowl win. I guess their head got too big
Anyway, USA Today came out with a coaches poll today

USC was #1,
Texas #2
Tennessee #3
Michigan #4
Oklahoma #5.
LSU #6
Virginia Tech #7
Iowa #9

I honestly think Texas and Oklahoma are ranked too high. Oklahoma has so much unproven talent and Texas looks good just because they barely beat a 3 loss Michigan team.

USC will have its usual walk through the weak pac 10, with the @Cal game being the only real chalenge. USC does have the most talent, true, but they aren't tested week in and week out like Big 12 or SEC teams. They sleep walk through their weak conference they play their A game in the bowls. Sort of like Miami

USC will win the PAC-10

OU-Texas game will decide who wins the Big 12

Tennessee will win the SEC championship

Michigan will win the Big 10

 

[JohnBM01]

This is off-topic of college football, but this is new development from the NCAA. Teams with hostile or abusive American Indians nicknames and mascots (Fighting Illini, Seminoles, Indians, etc.) are banned to use such nicknames and mascots in post-season play. This doesn't apply to the BCS in college football, since the BCS is not a tournament. The policy is enacted starting February 1, 2006. Such teams that cannot use such mascots/nicknames include Alcorn State, Central Michigan, Florida State, Utah, Illinois, Bradley, and North Dakota among the 18 schools in question.

Now back on topic. If you ask me, the deal challenge for USC was that Away game at Stanford. Did you remember what happened before Halftime? Stanford ripped a big run with no one chasing the runner down, and the Cardinal scored a touchdown over the Trojans. I like Texas. They are a tough team if not in the nation, then certainly in the Big XII South. I mean, you don't reverse a blowout like they almost had when they played Oklahoma State (they were 35-7, Oklahoma State) and not get a good rank. You don't convert a 4th and 18 to eventually score the winning touchdown. Then too, Texas knocked off a great Michigan Wolverines unit in the Rose Bowl. To me, I think Texas deserved at least a Top 5 position. If there was a playoff system in college football, I'd love to see USC vs. Texas, and Oklahoma vs. Auburn. I don't know what would be the proper seeding, but I know that there would be a chance at a Final many would want to see.

Something funny. You have USC win the Pac-10. You have OU or Texas to win the Big XII title (granted there isn't a dark horse in the Big XII North). You have Tennessee win the SEC. And you have the Wolverines winning the Big Ten. Who's taking home the national title next year, to you?

 

[Joey D]

Texas vs. Ohio State will be a friggen blast to watch. That will be such a great match up...except if for some reason one of the teams suck this year.

 

[Earth]

Now back on topic. If you ask me, the deal challenge for USC was that Away game at Stanford. Did you remember what happened before Halftime? Stanford ripped a big run with no one chasing the runner down, and the Cardinal scored a touchdown over the Trojans. I like Texas. They are a tough team if not in the nation, then certainly in the Big XII South. I mean, you don't reverse a blowout like they almost had when they played Oklahoma State (they were 35-7, Oklahoma State) and not get a good rank. You don't convert a 4th and 18 to eventually score the winning touchdown. Then too, Texas knocked off a great Michigan Wolverines unit in the Rose Bowl. To me, I think Texas deserved at least a Top 5 position. If there was a playoff system in college football, I'd love to see USC vs. Texas, and Oklahoma vs. Auburn. I don't know what would be the proper seeding, but I know that there would be a chance at a Final many would want to see.

Something funny. You have USC win the Pac-10. You have OU or Texas to win the Big XII title (granted there isn't a dark horse in the Big XII North). You have Tennessee win the SEC. And you have the Wolverines winning the Big Ten. Who's taking home the national title next year, to you?

USC was sleep walking in the Stanford game IMO. They woke up in the second half and heald Stanford to under 50 yds and scored 21+ points. The thing is if you play in the SEC, Big XII, or Big 10, you can't sleep walk, because if you get down by 14 or 17 points vs Texas, LSU, or Michigan at THEIR stadium, your not coming back

I'm against a playoff system in college football. I just don't like the idea. It's never been a part of 1-A ball and I want to keep it that way

Texas didnt finish in the final top 5? Thats rediculous

As for the National Champion and my conference picks, all I have to go off of is what they did last year and what talent they have returning. If you go by that USC is the obvious pick, but anything can happen

 

[JohnBM01]

Kyle Orton played in the Hall of Fame game during NFL preseason action. So what does this have to do with college football? Well, before he was picked up by the Chicago Bears, Orton put on a great season of football playing for the... choo choo!... the Purdue Boilermakers. Purdue suffered a big upset thanks to the boys out of Madison. That's right- the Wisconsin Badgers. That was a Saturday night game on ESPN last year. Wisconsin came in and shocked the Purdue Boilermakers. I believe Kyle Orton got banged up during play, kind of crashing and burning the Boilermaker trudge through the regular season.

Anyone likes the ACC? No, not in basketball, but football? The ACC is a great conference. I don't think the ACC is the SEC, but the Atlantic Coast Conference has a great deal of talent. Among some of my favorites in conference are the Miami Hurricanes, the Florida State Seminoles, the Maryland Terrapins, and the Virginia Tech Hokies. The two teams I have as favorites to win in conference are rivals- either Miami or Virginia Tech are probably going to be solid. Florida State football usually is solid every year. I'm sure the FSU faithful will have a frenzy of activity at Doak Walker Stadium. I've heard of their academic success, and their athletics are no slouch either.

During the first few weeks of the regular NCAA Football season, there is another Florida team in the Sun Belt conference who upset the Hawaii Warriors. I believe it was Florida Atlantic. I'm not sure if it was Florida Atlantic or Florida International. The thing about the Sun Belt conference is that it's kind of like VERY close to Division 1-AA. You don't really have standout teams like you see in the Big 10, the SEC, or anything like that. I know a few of the teams, however. Here in my state, we have the Mean Green of North Texas. I believe Idaho is a Sun Belt team as well.

People, you can talk about ANY conference. ANY division. I try to diversify my commentary. But you're free to talk about any conference, any division, any teams.

 

[JohnBM01]

Today on ESPNEWS (today being 5:08 PM CDT 8/18/05), there was a college football preview show courtesy of ESPNU. Here are as many highlights as I can provide:

WARNING: Look forward to a long list of highlights.

===PAC-10===
USC (Southern California) has some holes to fill as four coaches are lost. Among them, Norm Chow. There will be eight returning starters on offense and six returning starters on defense.

===BIG XII===
* Texas was 11-1 last year and MAY have a chance to finally knock off Oklahoma as Jason White not only got drafted to the pros, but also retired because of weak knees, he said. Don't count out the Sooners, however. There are still talent such as Adrian Peterson, among others. Returning starters? 8 on Offense, and 7 on Defense. The Big XII will be big, especially in the Big XII South.
* Can Nebraska return to the national spotlight?
* A potential surprise in the Big XII are the Iowa State, and maybe even the Kansas Jayhawks.

===BIG TEN===
* Braylon Edwards of Michigan is gone to the NFL, so can Michigan return to the promised land in the Big Ten without him? Eight will return on offense and seven on defense.
* THE Ohio State Buckeyes will have an even 9 returning starters on offense and defense respectively.
* Iowa - Big Ten's ultimate dark horse? One problem is that they may not have a solid running back. Defense should be solid.
SURPRISE TEAM: Purdue (doesn't play Michigan) Penn State (so maybe JoePa can pull it off)
* Big Ten could be the second best conference next season to the SEC.

===SEC===
* Auburn: no Florida, no Tennessee in schedule. Five straight home games.
* LSU: full of talent; can Miles coach LSU to greatness?
* Tennessee: good in regular and postseason, bad in the off-season with students getting into trouble. Defensive End Jason Allen has 123 tackles, 2 sacks, and two interceptions. He led the SEC last year.
* Georgia: David Greene gone, can the Bulldogs win again? They may need a new offensive package with an athletic quarterback.
* Steve Spurrier will be a good coach for USC (South Carolina), but can he coach the Gamecocks to a winning season SC QB Syvellw Newton was a QB last year, he'll now be a Wide Receiver.
* Florida: plenty of talent left behind by Ron Zook. Former Utah coach Urban Meyer could have quite a good time coachin the Florida Gators to maybe a bigtime Bowl Game.

===ACC===
* Virginia Tech - Keep Marcus Vick out of trouble. May likely win the ACC Coastal. Can the rest of the team to play as good as they were recently?
* Florida State: not enough athleticism in FSU QB.
* Miami (FL): Kyle Wright may win QB job. Kirby Freeman may be backup.
* Boston College: Quinton Porter is new QB for the BC Eagles. Expect Andre Callender to be solid as running back. Been to Bowl Games
* ACC Coastal may be stronger this year. With the new format, the ACC Coastal will consist of the following teams: Miami (FL), Virginia, Virginia Tech, Georgia Tech, North Carolina, and Duke.

===BIG EAST===
Cincinatti, Louisville, and South Florida enter Big East.
* Louisville: Brian Brohm is the QB. They lose six starters, so can they compete at their best on a consistent basis?
* Pittsburgh: QB Tyler Palko has 24 touchdowns and led the Big East last year.
* West Virginia: "Pacman" gone. 75% Freshmen- can the Mountaineers still be solid in the Big East?
* Syracuse: Greg Robinson will be Syracuse's head coach, who has over 30 years of experience. We may see a run-oriented offense.
* "Big East should NOT be a BCS conference." -Todd McShay

===Others===
* Notre Dame: Charlie Weis is the 28th Head Coach for the Fighting Irish. Solid running game. Two great receivers. Tough schedule!

* Utah: Brian Johnson will be new QB for the Utes. 16-straight games.

* Potential ones to watch: Bowling Green, Fresno State, Boise State, Wyoming

===RECRUITING===
* Fred Rouse can be a great WR for Florida State. Harrison Beck will play QB for Nebraska.
* Ryan Perrilloux must step up playing QB for LSU.
* USC leads in preseason recruiting

===Heisman Candidates and National Title Predictions===
National Title: (John) USC. (Todd) USC
Heisman: (John) Matt Leinart of Southern Cal. (Todd) Matt Leinart of Southern Cal.
Most Overrated: (John) Iowa. (Todd) Oklahoma.
Most Underrated: (John) LSU (Todd) Miami (FL)

That's a lot, huh? Care to continue the preview?

 

[led1013]

this year will be the best ou-texas, because texas is a little better than they usally are and ou is young but i still think ou will win because mack is afraid of stoops and ou has so anger to get rid so get ready for an ass whooping texas i'll be in the stands so mark the date and watch the best college football rivarly

 

[JohnBM01]

Now more highlights of college football previews, this time, with the Pac-10. ESPNEWS had ESPNU coverage of the Pac-10 Preview. Here are some of the highlights to keep the thread rolling:

-PAC-10 Preview Sources: ESPNU and Insiders Football News's College Football 2005 Preview

==University of Southern California 13-0 in 2004===
* There has never been a team in all 135 years of college football. From Rutgers vs. Princeton in 1869 to Oklahoma vs. USC (Southern California) in 2005, there has NEVER been a three-consectutive champion.
* Norm Chow gone. Can Trojans' offense hold without Chow?
* Good offense, but four All-Ameican defensive players from SoCal are gone. Top rushing defense in the nation.

===California - 10-2 in 2004===
* Offense has 6 returners; Defense has 3 returners
* Coach Jeff Tedford is 25-13 in three seasons with the Golden Bears.
* Ayoob has 35 touchdowns from last year
* Lots of junior college players recruited for Cal.

===Arizona State 9-3 in 2004===
* Andrew Walter, Arizona State QB, has 606 passing yards, 59.2% completion, 5 TDs, and one INT for the Sun Devils.
* Defense: Dale Robinson got 4.5 sacks last season.
* Arizona State can be tough to beat at home. They haven't beaten USC since 1999.

===Oregon State 7-5 in 2004===
* could be the next starting QB.
* Mike Haas is a great WR for the Beavers.
* Question marks on the linebacking core as several starters are gone.

===Oregon 5-6 in 2004===
* The Ducks may end up being a surprise team in the Pac-10. Perhaps upset USC.
* Devan Long, DE, has around 46 tackles for the Ducks.

===UCLA (California- Los Angeles) 6-6 in 2004===
* Drew Olson is likely to be the starting QB with great consistency. Has lots of talent.
* The Bruins may need to rely on Maurice Drew to be their big weapon which may lead them to a winning season and maybe a Bowl Game.
* They were even in scoring in the Pac-10, finishing 5-5 in conference

===Washington 1-10 in 2004===
* Ex-Notre Dame coach Tyrone Willingham has some work to do to revitalize the Seattle school. He never had three straight winning seasons.
* Needs players to run the West Coast Offense.
* Casey Paus will return to Washington with 1,476 passing yards and 5 TD last year for the Huskies.
* Winless in Pac-10. 55th ranked defense last year. Only win- San Jose State (21-6). Hasn't beaten USC since 2001.

===Stanford; 4-7 in 2004===
* No legit quarterback. Needs recruiting.
* Offense is solid, but questionable defense.

===Washington State; 5-6 in 2004===
* Plenty of momentum

===Arizona; 3-8 in 2004===
* Mike Stoops successful in recruiting for the Wildcats.

===Final Thoughts===
Pac-10 Winner? (John)USC will win. (Todd) USC will win.
Waiting in the wings? (John) California. (Todd) Arizona State
Pac-10 Player of the Year? (John) Matt Leinart. (Todd) Matt Leinart.
May Upset USC? (John) Oregon. (Todd) Arizona State.
Biggest Surprise in the Pac-10? (John) USC. (Todd) Washington State in Bowl Game.

 

[JohnBM01]

As of right now, ESPN is currently showing a one-hour special on Ohio State's college football practice. I have seen a number of drills. Drills include Punt, Defensive Inside, Offensive Inside, offensive line drills, 7-on-7, just a great way of looking at the Buckeyes in action. If you love the Ohio State... no wait, THE Ohio State Buckeyes, This is can't miss TV.

I still believe that their biggest game this year in terms of non-conference games, has to be Ohio State locking horns with the Texas Longhorns. I'm going to tell you something. Texas shown their worth against one of the Big Ten's best teams, the Michigan Wolverines. And if this year's Rose Bowl game was any indication, imagine them having a great game against the Texas Longhorns. The game will be at Buckeye Stadium, so you know the Buckeye faithful will want to disrupt the Longhorns' offense.

The Buckyes will play these non-conference games: Miami of Ohio, Texas, and San Diego State (all home games). In conference, OhSU has a Bye Week for October 1st. Then they play Iowa, at Penn State, Michigan State, at Indiana, at Minnesota, Illinois, Northwestern, and at Michigan. You already know I'm going to want to see Ohio State vs. Michigan.

Just wanted to throw this out for you Big Ten fans.

 

[Joey D]

While I despise the Buckeyes since I'm a Michigan fan all the way, I must say their team in past years has impressed me. I'm looking forward to the Michigan vs. OSU game. I find it better then Mich. vs. Notre Damn or Mich. vs. MSU.

 

[JohnBM01]

Of course, this year's Michigan/Ohio State rivalry takes place at the Big House, Ann Arbor. Michigan Wolverines territory. The people may be loud at Buckeye Stadium, but nothing like at the University of Michigan. You bet this will be a big game, always has been. I don't think any other schools, besides UNC and Duke in college basketball, have such hatred and are two of the best teams in the nation.

Another small note, if you have ESPN Classic, they are showing all kinds of old games. Check some of the old games out as you think about this season's games.

 

[Joey D]

I'll have to check out the old games, they are always fun to watch. Even though I know the outcome, its still fun to watch them.

I'm trying to score tickets this year to the game, I already have secured a set of tickets to the Michigan vs. MSU game.

 

[JohnBM01]

Let's talk Michigan, then. Their set of games include the following:

===Michigan's 2005 Schedule===
9/03: Northern Illinois
9/10: Notre Dame
9/17: Eastern Michigan
9/24: (at) Wisconsin
10/1: (at) Michigan State
10/8: Minnesota
10/15: Penn State
10/22: (at) Iowa
10/29 (at) Northwestern
11/05: ---bye week---
11/12: Indiana
11/19: Ohio State

I predict Michigan will breeze through their first three games before the fun begins in Big Ten conference play. Wisconsin is a nicely-balanced unit in Madison. Get ready, Blazin! Michigan vs. Michigan State, AT Michigan State. If last year was any indication, this year's game should be insane. It's one of the most exciting moments in a college football season- facing the school you completely hate. Then of course, playing fair on the football field. I'm sure no love will be lost among these two Michigan institutions, which are basically the best two teams in the state of Michigan. Here's a prediction. I think Michigan AND Michigan State will see Bowl Game action. I think Michigan may return to a BCS Bowl.

I'm looking to start another college football discussion in another thread, but for now, I think Michigan is going to have a solid season. I don't think I can recall a fiasco of a season that the Michigan Wolverines have had in their history. Next week, college football season 2005 will begin! ESPN's supposed to show UCF at South Carolina this coming Thursday. Locally, Houston starts their season against Oregon at beautiful Reliant Stadium. Reply on now!