Hammered: Bonds ties Aaron with 755

Slugger matches all-time homer record with shot off Hensley

SAN DIEGO -- Barry Bonds has now gone where only one man has been before him: to home run No. 755.

With his second-inning homer off Padres right-hander Clay Hensley on Saturday at PETCO Park, Bonds tied Aaron's cherished Major League Baseball career-best home run mark, and after the next one, he will be all alone in first place on the all-time list.

The homer, his 21st of the season and first in six games (28 plate appearances), ended Aaron's more than 33-year reign as MLB's home run king and came with Commissioner Bud Selig in attendance.

As a member of the Braves, Aaron passed Babe Ruth into first place with his 715th homer on April 8, 1974, at Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium, where the Braves began to play when they moved from Milwaukee after the 1965 season. It came in the fourth inning off Dodgers left-hander Al Downing.

It was Bonds' first off Hensley, who became the 445th pitcher to allow at least one homer to Bonds in his 22-year career. It was also his fourth at PETCO Park and 87th against the Padres, far and away his most against an opposing club.

For those who wondered what the scene would be like if Bonds hit one of his big ones on the road, as soon as it hit the electronic advertising board at the edge of the second deck in left field 382 feet away, the partisan Padres fans began a long ovation.

Bonds, who had taken a half-hour of early batting practice long before the game Saturday, was joyous as he reached the plate, giving a huge bear hug to his teenage son, Nikolai, who has been there for almost all his recent milestone homers, albeit at earlier stages of growth.

Bonds was then mobbed by his teammates as he strode back to the Giants third-base-side dugout. And just to punctuate the amazing moment, the fans gave him another ovation as he went back out to left field after the half-inning, Bonds doffing his cap in appreciation.

The ball was retrieved in Section 130, Row 1, Seat 8 by a man identified during the game as Adam Hughes, 33, from La Jolla, Calif.

Once Alex Rodriguez had hit his 500th homer earlier in the day at Yankee Stadium, Bonds became serious. He had said, half in jest on Friday night, that he was waiting for A-Rod to reach his milestone before Bonds at least tied Aaron, which he did on a 2-1 pitch from Hensley.

Thus, with no fans and just a smattering of reporters in the ballpark, Bonds emerged from the clubhouse to take early BP with Giants manager Bruce Bochy doing most of the pitching. Bonds took 11 rounds and 113 swings, hitting 17 bolts all over the nearly four-year-old ballpark.

Bonds' career has been speckled by seasons of greatness, as his seven National League MVP awards attest. He also holds the single-season record for most homers with 73 in 2001.

Aaron did it with consistency, never hitting more than 47 homers in a single season -- and he did that in 1971. But his overall numbers were outstanding. He's the only player in history to amass more than 700 homers, 3,000 base hits and 2,000 RBIs.

Aaron's 2,297 RBIs are also baseball's all-time best and his 3,771 hits are third behind Pete Rose (4,256) and Ty Cobb (4,189).

Aaron was also a .305 lifetime hitter for his 23-year career, which began in Milwaukee with the Braves in 1954 and ended there with the Brewers in 1976. He played his final two seasons as a designated hitter in the American League and his last homer was hit at Milwaukee County Stadium on July 20 of that year.

Aaron was a 25-time All-Star, including the two games that were played each summer from 1959 to 1962, won two National League batting titles and led the league in homers and RBIs four times.

He was the NL MVP only once (in 1957, the year his Braves defeated the Yankees in the World Series for Milwaukee's only baseball championship) as compared to seven for Bonds, who needs 88 hits to reach 3,000 and 20 RBIs to hit the 2,000 mark.

Aaron was inducted in the Hall of Fame along with Frank Robinson in 1982.

Bonds last homered July 27 against Marlins right-hander Rick VandenHurk with two outs in the first inning of the Giants' 12-10 win at AT&T Park. Coming on a 2-1 pitch that VandenHurk called a changeup and Bonds termed a fastball, the smash went into the bleachers left of center and was his first off a pitcher of Dutch descent.

It was only the 11th game Bonds has hit a homer in after opening April with eight long balls. Since then, he's averaged about one a week.


[Quelle: mlb.com]

Mavericks angeln sich All-Star

München - Die Dallas Mavericks sind bei der Suche nach Verstärkungen für die neue Saison endlich fündig geworden.

Der Klub von Dirk Nowitzki einigte sich mit Forward Eddie Jones über einen Zwei-Jahres-Vertrag.
Der 35-Jährige wird in der nächsten Saison 1,87 Millionen Dollar in Dallas verdienen.
Mavericks-Präsident Donnie Nelson zeigt sich optimistisch: "Bevor es in die Trainingsphase geht, wollten wir noch zwei erfahrene Spieler holen."
"Diese müssen in der Mannschaft Führungsarbeit leisten. Sie sollen uns einfach helfen, die Meisterschaft zu gewinnen."
Ein erfahrener Spieler steht in der Mannschaft meist im Mittelpunkt und kann den Jungstars einiges an Erfahrung vermitteln.

Ein wertvoller Oldie
Jones-Agent Leon Rose hat ihn zu diesem Wechsel geraten. "Es ist ein Team, dem Jones helfen kann auf ein höheres Level zu kommen", so Rose.

Nachdem Jones nun im Kader ist, fällt viel Druck von den Mavericks. Sie haben ihn schon vergangenes Jahr beobachtet, als er von den Memphis Grizzlies zu Miami Heat wechselte.
Jones steht bereits vor seiner 14. Saison in der NBA. Im Schnitt kam er auf 15,4 Punkte pro Spiel.

Glavine macht die 300 voll


Tom Glavine hat jetzt auch seinen 300. Karriere-Sieg in der Tasche

Nach Barry Bonds und Alex Rodriguez, die am Samstag ihre "Meilensteine" feiern konnten, hat es Tom Glavine nun auch geschafft.

Der Starting Pitcher gewann mit seinen New York Mets bei den Chicago Cubs mit 8:3 und heimste dabei seinen 300. Karriere-Sieg ein. Der 41-Jährige ist erst der 23. Pitcher der Geschichte, der die 300-Siege-Schallmauer knacken konnte.

Doch nicht nur die Mets hatten etwas zu feiern. Bei den Cubs gab Reliever Kerry Wood nach einjähriger Verletzungspause sein Debüt.


[Quelle: sport1.at]

Das hässliche Gesicht der Superligen

München - Von einem Sommerloch kann keine Rede sein. Die US-Profi-Ligen sorgen täglich für Schlagzeilen, obwohl derzeit nur im Baseball regulärer Spielbetrieb herrscht.

Nicht das Sportliche, sondern Skandale, Eklats und Verschwörungen sind die bestimmenden Themen.
Die NBA wird von einem Schiedsrichter-Skandal erschüttert, die NFL leidet unter dem Fall Vick.
Die MLB-Saison ist zwar in vollem Gange, doch der Homerun-Rekord von Barry Bonds, um den sich derzeit alles dreht, ist mit einem Fragezeichen versehen.
Sport1.de gibt einen Überblick und zeigt die Schattenseiten des US-Sports.

* Brennpunkt NFL: Der Fall Vick

Michael Vick, Quarterback der Atlanta Falcons, war in den Südstaaten ein Held. Einer, der das Cover von Videospielen ziert und in Rap-Texten glorifiziert wird. Einer, der auf dem Feld das Heft gern selbst in die Hand nimmt und sein Team zum Sieg läuft, wenn im Passspiel wenig funktioniert.

Doch, ob Vick jemals wieder einen Pass für die Falcons spielt, steht in den Sternen. Der 27-Jährige steht wegen der Organisation illegaler Hundekämpfe vor Gericht.
Vicks Prozess beginnt am 26. November. Ihm drohen bei einer Verurteilung bis zu sechs Jahren Haft.
Die Beweislast scheint erdrückend. Vor einer Woche bekannte sich Tony Taylor, ein Mitangeklagter, schuldig. Er schloss ein Abkommen mit der Staatsanwaltschaft und packte in einer "Sammlung von Fakten" aus.
Darin belastete er Vick schwer. Der Quarterback habe die Hundekämpfe, welche auf seinem Grundstück stattfanden, finanziert.
Außerdem bestätigte Taylor den grausamen Verdacht, dass schwache Hunde erhängt, ertränkt, erschossen oder erschlagen wurden.
Dabei hatte Vick beim ersten Gerichtstermin am 26. Juli noch seine Unschuld beteuert und angekündigt, er werde seinen "guten Namen rein waschen".
Nach Taylors Enthüllungen droht Vick und den anderen beiden Mitangeklagten sogar eine erweiterte Anklage. Bis zur Klärung des Delikts liegt Vicks NFL-Karriere auf Eis.
Weder die Falcons noch Commissioner Roger Goodell wollen den Quarterback bis dahin auf dem Feld sehen.
Inzwischen wird aber schon gemutmaßt, dass Vick wegen seiner Hautfarbe in den Südstaaten eher ein prominentes Opfer als ein Täter sei.

* Brennpunkt NBA: Schiedsrichter-Wettskandal

Nicht nur die Fußball-Bundesliga, auch die beste Basketball-Liga der Welt hat ihren Wettskandal.
Tim Donaghy heißt das schwarze Schaf unter den Referees, der auf eine zweistellige Anzahl von NBA-Spielen gewettet und Punktdifferenz sowie Gesamtpunktzahl manipuliert haben soll.
Die Untersuchungen des FBI laufen bereits seit mehr als einem Jahr und beschränken sich nicht nur auf Donaghy.
Aufgeflogen war der 40-Jährige, weil das FBI gegen die berüchtigte Gambino-Familie ermittelt.
Sie gehört zu den fünf Familien, die das organisierte Verbrechen in New York City kontrollieren.
Die Verbrecher sollen Donaghy bedroht haben, um ihn zur Manipulation von Spielen zu bewegen. Der Referee willigte ein.
Viele Tausend Dollar soll die Mafia bei Wetten gewonnen haben.
Donaghy war als NBA-Schiedsrichter bereits zurückgetreten, bevor die große Bombe platzte. Er will mit den Behörden kooperieren.
Der NBA wird das helfen, denn die Liga hat viel Arbeit vor sich. Die Glaubwürdigkeit ist erschüttert.

* Brennpunkt MLB: Rekordmann unter Doping-Verdacht

Vergangenen Samstag, um 19.29 Uhr Ortszeit, schlug Barry Bonds von den San Francisco Giants den 755. Homerun seiner Karriere.

Eigentlich ein Baseball-Festtag, denn bei diesem Bestwert steht der Rekord von Hank Aaron.
Doch MLB-Commissioner Bud Selig war gar nicht selig.
Mit Widerwillen beobachtete er in seiner privaten Box das historische Geschehen - mit offenem Mund und Händen in der Hosentasche. Er spendete demonstrativ keinen Beifall.
Der Grund: Die schon lange andauernden Verdächtigungen, Bonds habe mit anabolen Steroiden nachgeholfen.
Selig: "Trotzdem sollten wir die Leistung von Barry Bonds als bemerkenswert anerkennen."
Gegen Bonds, der stets betont, nie positiv getestet worden zu sein, laufen allerdings noch weitere Untersuchungen. In San Francisco wird gegen den Baseball-Star wegen Steuerhinterziehung und Meineids ermittelt.

sport1.de

Bonds now king of swing after No. 756
Slugger sits alone atop MLB's long-ball list with shot off Bacsik
By Barry M. Bloom / MLB.com

SAN FRANCISCO -- Now he is second to none.

Barry Bonds joined the pantheon of the baseball gods Tuesday night at AT&T Park by hitting his 756th homer, passing the legendary Hank Aaron to take over perhaps Major League Baseball's most hallowed record: first place on the all-time home run list.

The homer, Bonds' 22nd of the season, ended Aaron's more than 33-year reign as MLB's home run king. Aaron has held at least a tie for the top spot on the homer list since he knotted Babe Ruth on April 4, 1974, Opening Day of that season at Cincinnati's Riverfront Stadium.

"Right now, I'm very happy that it's all over with," Bonds said long after the Nationals defeated his Giants, 8-6. "I'm really happy with my teammates. That's the most important thing. And the fans, like I said, the fans here are my family. No one will ever take that away. No one can ever take that away."

The road to 756, paved with record-setting performances as well as controversy and suspicion about how Bonds got there, reached its destination at 8:51 p.m. PT with one out and none on in the fifth inning. Bonds' record blast came off Nationals left-hander Mike Bacsik, who wasn't born yet when Aaron's once record-setting shot came off Dodgers left-hander Al Downing on April 8, 1974, in Atlanta. Bacsik became the 446th pitcher to allow at least one homer to Bonds during the course of the lefty-swinging slugger's 22-year career.

It was one of his trademark blasts, traveling 435 feet into the bleachers just to the right of center, setting off a wild scrum for the ball. Matt Murphy, a tourist from Queens, N.Y., traveling with a friend to Australia, came up with it, the Giants announced, and Murphy left the ballpark declining to speak to the media.

The crowd, ripe with anticipation all evening as Bonds opened with a double and single in his first two at-bats, quickly began the celebration after Bonds unleashed on the full-count fastball. The hometown fans responded as expected while Bonds rounded the bases to a cacophony of cheers, met his son, Nikolai, as usual, at home plate, and then was swarmed by his teammates.

Even the Nationals stood at their positions and applauded the new home run king. Bonds mother Pat, his wife, Liz, and daughters Aisha and Shikari were also there for that brilliant moment.

Bacsik, whose father of the same name pitched to Aaron in 1976 after the Hammer hit his last homer and before he ended his career at the end of that season, visited the Giants clubhouse after he was removed from the game at the end of the fifth inning. Like San Diego's Clay Hensley who allowed No. 755 on Saturday night at PETCO Park, Bonds gave Bacsik an autographed bat to commentate the occasion.

"I went over there and told him he was the best I've ever faced and probably was the best of all-time," Bacsik said. "I told him I wanted to go after him and challenge him if the situation presented itself. I was trying to get him out. I threw him a pitch that he really like to hit and he did. I honestly didn't even watch it land. I watched Barry's reaction and by the sound of the bat, I knew that it was gone."

For Bonds, who turned 43 on July 24, it was the zenith of what has been a long and controversial career that should ultimately land him in the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, N.Y., alongside the Hammer.

Following his historic blast Tuesday night, on-field festivities lasted 10 minutes and included a surprise video from Aaron, who heretofore had remained mostly silent and aloof during Bonds' pursuit of his record.

"I would like to offer my congratulations to Barry Bonds on becoming baseball's career home run leader," Aaron said. "It is a great accomplishment which required skill, longevity and determination."

Willie Mays, Bonds' godfather, was on the field, and Major League officials Jimmie Lee Solomon and Frank Robinson were in the house and said earlier in the game that they would visit Bonds in the clubhouse after he hit the milestone home run.

Commissioner Bud Selig was not in San Francisco, having been in attendance for 11 of the games while Bonds inexorably marched toward Aaron. Selig was there Saturday night when Bonds hit No. 755 to tie.

Selig called Bonds to congratulate him and released the following statement: "I congratulate Barry Bonds for establishing a new, career home run record. Barry's achievement is noteworthy and remarkable.

"After Barry came out of the game, I congratulated him by telephone and had MLB executive vice president Jimmie Lee Solomon and Hall of Famer Frank Robinson -- both of whom were at the game and witnessed the record-breaking home run -- meet with him on my behalf. While the issues which have swirled around this record will continue to work themselves toward resolution, today is a day for congratulations on a truly remarkable achievement."

Don Fehr, the longtime director of the Players Association, released a statement that read: "For more than two decades, Barry Bonds has been one of the game's most dominant players. This is truly one of those moments that all fans will remember."

Bonds said he was pleased that the Commissioner had made the effort.

"Bud Selig called me after the game," Bonds said. "We had a chance to talk. He congratulated me. I was very happy about that. I thanked him. He told me it was a great accomplishment, 'You've endured a lot, and I have a lot of respect for you.' And I have a lot of respect for him."

After the fireworks went off and he'd made the rounds, Bonds took the microphone and told the San Francisco fans he has played in front of for 15 seasons that he loved them. He nearly broke down in tears as he remembered his late father, Bobby, the former Giant who passed away from the ravages of cancer nearly four years ago.

"I miss you," said Bonds, who trotted out to left field for the sixth inning, but was quickly removed from the game in a double switch by Giants manager Bruce Bochy. Bochy said that Bonds deserved the curtain call.

"Yeah, I wanted him to go back to left field," he said. "Those fans, they love him. They're always chanting, 'Barry, Barry.' So I wanted him to go out there so they could acknowledge him and congratulate him before I took him out of the game."

Bonds has had his dark moments. In recent years, his on-field heroics have been played out under the shadow of the investigation into the Bay Area Laboratory Co-Operative, widespread speculation about his part in the use by Major League players of performance-enhancing drugs, and a grand jury continuing to consider an indictment against him for perjury relating to his testimony in the BALCO case.

It was also noted to Bonds that along the way this year alone, Selig wasn't supposed to show up for the chase, but he did. Aaron wasn't going to recognize the feat, but he did. The crowd was going to be hostile if he hit one of his landmark homers on the road, but it certainly wasn't on Saturday night in San Diego.

Bonds, who has never shied away from the controversy, said it all didn't really dignify a response.

"I don't throw stones for throwing stones," he said. "That's not my style. It's never been my style. Just because I'm a quiet, to-myself kind of person, it doesn't mean anything. That's how I was raised, that's just how I am. It's just not me."

The record was 22 seasons in the making, beginning in 1986 when Bonds came up as a 21-year-old with the Pirates. He joined the Giants in 1993 as a free agent and has hit 580 homers in a San Francisco uniform, second only to Mays, who hit 646.

Ironically, Bonds' first homer was hit on June 4, 1986, against the Braves at Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium more than 12 years after Aaron hit his record-breaking shot into the left-field bullpen in the same now-defunct ballpark.

Bonds now holds the record for most homers in a career, most in a single season (73 in 2001), most for a 42-year-old (26 in 2006) and most as a 43-year-old, a number that is still ascending. His 73 homers since he turned 40 are the most by any player from that age on, and that includes the off-year of five he hit in 2005, the season in which he had a trio of surgeries on his right knee.

He's the only other player in Major League history, aside from Ruth, to hold the career and single-season home run records at the same time. And Ruth, who set the records with 19 in 1919, 54 in 1920, 59 in 1921 and finally 60 homers in 1927, relinquished his single-season crown in 1961 when Roger Maris hit 61. Ruth took the all-time lead with his 139th homer on July 18, 1921, and thus held both the career and single-season records for a little more than 40 years.

Bonds is also quickly approaching the 2,000-RBI and 3,000-hit plateaus (he's 19 and 85 away, respectively). And when he does, he'll become only the second player in baseball history aside from Aaron to collect more than 700 homers, 2,000 RBIs and 3,000 base hits.

Aaron's 2,297 RBIs are baseball's all-time best and his 3,771 hits are third behind Pete Rose (4,256) and Ty Cobb (4,189).

Bonds already has the all-time record for walks (2,540) and intentional walks (679).

He's the only player ever to amass more than 500 homers and 500 steals (514).

His seven National League MVPs are by far the most by any single player in baseball history. Plus, he's a 14-time All-Star, having on July 10 started in the outfield for the National League at AT&T Park because more than 2 million votes put him into the starting lineup.

Bonds' 71 multi-homer games are second only to Ruth, who had 72. And 19 times he has hit 20 or more homers in a season, one behind Aaron's record.

Adding No. 756, most of Bonds' landmark homers have come at AT&T Park, which opened in 2001 on the banks of what has been dubbed McCovey Cove.

Those include Nos. 71-73 in 2001 to set the single-season record; No. 500; No. 600; Nos. 660 and 661 to pass Mays into third on the all-time list; No. 700; and No. 715 on May 28, 2006, to pass Ruth into second all-time.

Despite all these records and Bonds ascending to the record on Tuesday night, he said he has great respect for milestones established in every sport.

"I think all records are great," he said. "I'm not going to sit there and say this is the best record. All these records, there's no one record - we can't all play the same sport. Football has its records, basketball, and hockey -- with Wayne Gretzky's records [for most goals, assists and total points]. I think they are all great records, regardless of what sport it is."


- mlb.com

Gleichgewichtsstörung adé

München - Als Kevin Garnett in Minneapolis ins Flugzeug nach Boston stieg, wackelte die NBA-Landkarte gewaltig.

"Dass Garnett nach Boston kommt, hat die Fundamente der Eastern Conference erschüttert", schrieb der "Boston Herald", als der spektakulärste Trade der Offseason in trockenen Tüchern war.
"Der Osten ist jetzt wesentlich stärker", sagt Rod Thorn, President of Basketball Operations bei den New Jersey Nets.
Das Team aus East Rutherford gehörte in den vergangenen Jahren zu den wenigen ernstzunehmenden Gegnern für die Top-Teams der Western Conference. Doch damit ist jetzt Schluss.
Spieler mit All-Star-Format

Neben Garnett sind vier Spieler mit All-Star-Format von der Western in die Eastern Conference abgewandert: Ray Allen (von Seattle nach Boston), Jason Richardson (von Golden State nach Charlotte), Rashard Lewis (von Seattle nach Orlando) und Zach Randolph (von Portland nach New York).
"Garnett ist einer der besten Spieler in der Liga", analysiert Thorn. "Allen ist einer der besten Offensivspieler der Liga. Lewis ist ein All-Star. Randolph ist ein Typ, der im Schnitt 25 Punkte und zehn Rebounds erzielt hat - es gibt nicht viele solche Spieler."

Mehr Masse als Klasse
Im Gegenzug erhielten die Westklubs mehr Masse als Klasse.
Bestes Beispiel ist der Garnett-Wechsel, bei dem Ryan Gomes, Gerald Green, Al Jefferson, Theo Ratliff und Sebastian Telfair an die Westküste gespült wurden.
Die Sonics bekamen für Franchise Player Allen Wally Szczerbiak, Delonte West und Jeff Green - Führungsspieler Fehlanzeige.
Die Warriors sicherten sich für Richardson Nummer-Acht-Pick Brandan Wright.
Die Knicks tauschten den ungeliebten Steve Francis mit Channing Frye für Randolph, Fred Jones, Dan Dickau und Demetris Nichols nach Portland.

Free Agents bleiben im Osten
Doch nicht genug: Begehrte Free Agents wie Vince Carter (New Jersey Nets), Gerald Wallace (Charlotte Bobcats) und Chauncey Billups (Detroit Pistons) bleiben ihren Teams treu und haben verlängert.

"Die kommende Saison wird hier drüben ein richtiger Kampf. Der Osten ist wesentlich besser als in den letzten Jahren", ist sich Thorn sicher.

Nur ein müdes Lächeln
"Sie haben jetzt ein paar echte Titelanwärter", gibt Donnie Nelson, Thorns Pendant bei den Dallas Mavericks, zu. In den vergangenen Spielzeiten hatte er beim Gedanken an Ostteams nur ein müdes Lächeln auf Lager.
Denn seit dem Ende der Chicago-Bulls-Dynastie mit Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Trainer Phil Jackson und Co. sind die Kräfteverhältnisse in der NBA klar verteilt.

Kanonenfutter
Die Teams aus der Eastern Conference waren nur das Kanonenfutter der erfolgshungrigen Mannschaften aus dem Westen.
Seit 1999 gingen nur zwei Championships an Ost-Teams: 2004 an die Detroit Pistons, 2006 an die Miami Heat.

Negative Bilanz war genug
Zuletzt reichten in der Eastern Conference ausgeglichene und sogar negative Saisonbilanzen für die Playoff-Qualifikation - ein Armutszeugnis. Damit ist nach Meinung der Experten spätestens seit dem wegweisenden Garnett-Wechsel Schluss.
Nelson und die Teams der Western Conference können mit diesem Erdbeben gut leben: "Es ist das Schöne an diesem Spiel. Es ist nur eine Frage der Zeit, bevor ein neues Gleichgewicht entsteht."

Reggie Miller Comeback bei den Celtics???

Die liebenswerten Looser

Die Philadelphia Phillies haben in ihrer 124 Jahre währenden Geschichte nun 10.001 Mal verloren. Ein einsamer Rekord.


Es war ein typischer Sommertag in Philadelphia. Die einheimischen Phillies spielten mal wieder miserabel und lagen hoffnungslos mit 2:10 zurück. Das Kummer gewöhnte Publikum zeigte sich weitgehend lethargisch, nur selten mischten sich Buhrufe in die entspannte Atmosphäre. Dann, am Ende letzten Innings, geschah das Seltsame: 44.872 erhoben sich im ausverkauften Haus und applaudierten. Der Anlass: Ein Rekord. Die Phillies hatten zum 10.000. Mal in ihrer Geschichte verloren, so oft wie keine andere Sport-Franchise in den USA.

"Da muss man sich nicht schämen", fand Tony La Russa. Er hat leicht reden, er ist der Manager der siegreichen Cardinals und sicherte sich den letzten Spielball, um ihn für einen wohltätigen Zweck versteigern zu lassen: "Dieser Ball ist Geschichte."

Die Phillies versuchten, es mit Galgenhumor zu nehmen: Einen "großartigen Meilenstein" nannte Pitcher Adam Eaton den Rekord, denn "schließlich muss man eine sehr lange Tradition haben, um so etwas zu erreichen". Nach einem 3:10 bei den Los Angeles Dodgers steht der Rekord nun bei 10.001 Pleiten.

Alles begann im Jahr 1883. Damals wurde der Klub unter dem Namen Philadelphia Quakers gegründet. Im allerersten Spiel gab es die erste Niederlage: 3:4 gegen die Providence Grays. In den 124 Jahren seitdem hat man allerdings auch einige Siege eingefahren, 8.810 insgesamt. Das reichte einmal sogar zum großen Wurf: 1980 gewannen die Phillies die World-Series, 1983 und 1993 erreichten sie die Endspielserie.

Ansonsten ist die Klub-Geschichte gepflastert mit Enttäuschungen, tragischen Niederlagen und viel Häme. 1960 etwa trat Manager Eddie Sawyer bereits nach dem allerersten Spieltag, einer 4:9-Niederlage gegen Cincinatti, zurück. Seine Begründung: "Ich bin jetzt 49 Jahre alt und ich möchte meinen 50. Geburtstag noch erleben."

Der Tiefpunkt folgte 1964: Zwölf Spieltage vor Schluss führten die Phillies mit sechs Siegen die National League an, deren Gewinn damals noch die direkte Qualifikation für die World Series bedeutete. Der TV Guide, die führende Fernsehzeitschrift der USA, hatte bereits eine Vorschau gedruckt und mit dem Stadium der Phillies aufgemacht. Die aber brachten es fertig, zehn Spiele hintereinander zu verlieren. Statt ihnen feierten die St. Louis Cardinals den Liga-Titel. Der sogenannte "Phold" (zusammen gesetzt aus "Phillies" und "fold") oder auch "Phillie Phlop" gilt als einer der dramatischsten Zusammenbrüche eines Teams in der amerikanischen Sport-Geschichte.

"Es ist schon hart ein Phillies-Fan zu sein", erzählte Andrew Haines, ein 25-jähriger Zuschauer, der Nachrichtenagentur AP, "es gibt eine ganze Menge Baseball-Witze mit Pointen auf ihre Kosten. Diese 10.000 Niederlagen macht die Sache nicht besser." Dabei ist es eigentlich noch schlimmer: Playoff- und World-Series-Spiele zählen gar nicht zur Verlustpartiengesamtsumme. Sonst stände der Rekord bereits bei 10.036.


[Quelle: taz.de 17.07.2007]

Wettskandal in der NBA spitzt sich zu


Der Wettskandal in der nordamerikanischen Basketball-Profiliga NBA spitzt sich zu: Der angeklagte Schiedsrichter Tim Donaghy soll am Mittwoch vor einem Gericht in New York auspacken und sich schuldig bekennen, auf Spiele gewettet zu haben, die er selbst geleitet hat. Dies bestätigte NBA- Sprecher Tim Frank. Donaghy steht unter dem Verdacht, Kontakte zum organisierten Verbrechen zu unterhalten und in den vergangenen zwei Jahren Spiele manipuliert und zudem Insiderinformationen an Dritte weitergegeben zu haben. Der Unparteiische wurde von der US- Bundespolizei FBI bereits verhört und soll laut der Zeitung «Los Angeles Times» spielsüchtig sein.

Bangen um den Ruf der Liga

«Das ist die schlimmste Situation, die ich als NBA-Fan, als NBA- Anwalt oder als NBA-Generaldirektor erlebt habe», sagte NBA-Boss David Stern. Die Liga zittert um ihren guten Ruf, und Stern ist um Schadensbegrenzung bemüht. Der mächtige Commissioner nannte den Angeklagten eine «Ratte» und «einen isolierten Kriminellen». Keine weiteren NBA-Schiedsrichter oder Spieler scheinen in die Affäre verwickelt zu sein. Bereits vor Wochen hatte er erklärt, «keine Kosten und Mühen scheuen zu wollen, den Verantwortlichen vor Gericht zu bringen, der das Vertrauen in unseren Sport erschüttert hat». Pro Saison werden knapp 250 Millionen Dollar auf NBA-Spiele verwettet.

Der 40 Jahre alte Donaghy soll in den vergangenen zwei Spielzeiten nach offiziellen Angaben 131 Saisonspiele und 8 Playoff-Partien gepfiffen haben. Am 9. Juli war der Referee zurückgetreten. Seit Bekanntwerden des Skandals Ende Juni wurde jede Partie unter Donaghys Leitung intensiv geprüft - vor allem die Zahl seiner Foul- Entscheidungen. Dabei sei der Liga, so Stern, nichts Verdächtiges aufgefallen.

Die «New York Times» berichtete, der Beschuldigte soll in seinen 13 Jahren als Schiedsrichter zwischenzeitlich Wettschulden gehabt haben und so unter den Einfluss von Verbrechern geraten zu sein, die auch seine Familie bedroht haben. Auch außerhalb der NBA geriet Donaghy bereits mit dem Gesetz in Konflikt. Im Januar 2005 war er von seinen Nachbarn in West Chester/Pennsylvania verklagt worden, weil er angeblich ihren Traktor angezündet hatte. Eine Verwicklung in den Wettskandal hat Donaghy bisher stets bestritten.



[Quelle: netzzeitung.de 15.08.2007]

Hier mal alle wichtigen Neuzugänge bis 21. August. 07

Anaheim Ducks

Mathieu Schneider / Detroit Red Wings
Stephen Dixon / Pittsburgh Penguins
Jason King / Vancouver Canucks
Todd Bertuzzi / Detroit red Wings
Shane Hnidy / Atlanta Trashers
Brendan Segal / Nashville Predators

Atlanta Thrashers

Kyle Wanvig / Minnesota Wild
Chris Thorburn / Pittsburgh Penguins
Eric Perrin / Tampa Bay Lightning
Todd White / Minnesota Wild
Kenn Klee / Colorado
Karl Pilar / Toronto

Boston Bruins

Shawn Thornton / Anaheim Ducks
Peter Schaefer / Ottawa Senators

Buffalo Sabres

Jocelyn Thibaut / Pittsburgh

Calgary Flames

Cory Sarich / Tampa Bay Lightning
Owen Nolan / Phoenix
Anders Eriksen / Columbus

Carolina Hurricanes

Shane Willis / Tampa Bay Lightning
Scott Walker / Nashville Predators
Michael Lighton / Montreal Canadiens
Jeff Hamilton / Chicago Blackhawks
Matt Cullen / NY Rangers

Chicago Blackhawks

Robert Lang / Detroit Red Wings
Yannick Perreault / Toronto Maple Leafs
Sergei Samsonov / Montreal Canadiens
Steve Marr / Calgary Flames
Andrei Zyuzyn / Calgary Flames
Patrick Kane / Nr. 1 First Round Draft-Pick
Jonathan Toews / gilt als größtes Nachwuchstalent
Jim Fahey / NJ Devils
Wade Flaherty / Vancouver
Preston Ryan / Vancouver

Colorado Avelanche

Scott Hannan / San Jose Sharks
Ryan Smith / N.Y. Islanders
Matt Hussey / Detroit
Eric Healey / Tampa
Wes O`Neal / NY ISlanders
Wyatt Smith / Minesota

Columbus Blue Jackets

Sheldon Brookband / Nashville Predators
Dan Smith / Detroit
Derek McKenzie / Atlanta
Chris Beech / Washington
Michal Peca / Edmonton Oilers

Dallas Stars

Trevor Byrne / Washington
Brad Winchester / Edmonton
Toby Peteersen / Edmonton
Todd Fedorouk / Philadelphia

Detroit Red Wings

Brian Rafalski / New Jersey Devils
Dallas Drake / St.Louis

Edmonton Oilers

Sheldon Souray / Montreal
Joni Pitkanen / Philadelphia
Dustin Penner / Anaheim

Florida Panthers

Tomas Vokoun / Nashville Predators
Richard Zednik / N.Y. Islanders
Radek Dvorak / St. Louis Blues
Brett McLean / Colorado Avelanche

L.A. Kings

Ladislav Nagy / Dallas
Kyle calder / Detroit
Tom Preissing / Ottawa
Michael Handzus / Chicago
Brad Stuart / Calgary
John Klemm / Dallas

Minnesota Wild

Petr Kalus / Boston Bruins
Eric Belanger / Atlanta
Sean Hill / Islanders

Montreal Candiens

Ryan Russell / N.Y. Rangers
Roman Hamrlik / Calgary
Bryan Smolinski / Vancouver
Tom Kostopoulos / LA Kings
Patrice Brisebois / Colorado

Nashville Predators

Matt Ellison / Philadelphia Flyers
Radek Bonk / Montreal
Dan Ellis / Dallas
Shane Willis / Carolina
Martin Gelinas / Florida
Greg Devries / Atlanta Thrashers
Jed Ortmeyer / NY Rangers

New Jersey Devils

Dainius Zuburs / Buffalo
Karol Rachunek / NYRangers
Kevin Weekes / NY Rangers
Vitaly Vishnevski / Nashville
Aaron Asham / NY Islanders

N.Y. Islanders

Jon Sim / Atlanta Thrashers
Ruslan Fedotenko / Tampa
Bill Guerin / San Jose
Mike comrie / Ottawa
Aaron Johnson / Columbus
Mathew Spiller / Phoenix
Andy Sutton / Atlanta
Josef Vasicek / Carolina
Joey MAcDonald / Boston Bruins

N.Y. Rangers

Chris Drury / Buffalo Sabres
Scott Gomez / New Jersey Devils

Ottawa Senators

Luke Richardson / Tampa Bay
Sean Donovan / Boston

Philadelphia Flyers

Kimmo Timonen / Nashville Predators
Scott Hartnell / Nashville Predators
Daniel Briere / Buffalo Sabres
Joffrey Lupol / Edmonton Oilers
Jason Smith / Edmonton Oilers
James vanRiemsdyk / Nr. 2 First Round Draft-pick

Phoenix Coyotes

Kyle Turris / Nr. 3 First Round Draft-pick
David Aebischer / Montreal
Mike York / Philadelphia
Alex Auld / Florida

Pittsburgh Penguins

Peter Sykora / Edmonton
Dany Sabourin / Vancouver
Darryl Sydor / Dallas
Jeff Taff / Phoenix
Ty Conklin / Buffalo
Mike Weaver / LA Kings

San Jose Sharks

Brad Norton / Detroit
Alexei Semenov / Florida

St. Louis Blues

Paul Kariya / Nashville Predators
Erik Johnson / Nr.1 Draft 2006
Alex Brooks / NJ Devils

Tampa Bay Lightning

Michel Oullet / Pittsburgh Penguins
Dan Jancevski / Montreal
Brad Lukowisch / NY Devils

Toronto Maple Leafs

Vesa Toskala / San Jose Sharks
Marc Bell / San Jose Sharks
Jason Blake / N.Y. Islanders
Scott Clemmensen / New Jersey

Vancouver Canucks

Brad Isbister / NY Rangers
Byron Ritchie / Calgary
Curtis Sanford / St.Louis
Aaron Miller / LA Kings

Washington Capitals:

Tom Poti / N.Y. Islanders
Viktor Kozlov / N.Y. Islanders
Michael Nylander / N.Y. Rangers
Joe Motzko / Anaheim
Niklas Backström / Schweden Nr.4 Draft 2006

.................................

Kommentar:
Bald gehts mit der Pre Season los, es sind noch einige Namhafte Spieler ohne Vertrag. Z.B. Teemu Selännä (eventuell Karriereende),Eric Lindros,Peter Forsberg. Bleibt also noch spannend.

Ed Belfour will nach Schweden

Auch mit 42 Jahren hat Torhüter Ed Belfour noch nicht genug: Der Kanadier will nach 17 Jahren in der NHL seine Karriere beim schwedischen Zweitligisten Leksands IF fortsetzen.
Belfour, der zweimal mit der Vezina-Trophy als bester Torhüter der Liga ausgezeichnet worden war, spielte zuletzt für die Florida Panthers.
Mit 484 Siegen in der regulären Saison ist Belfour die Nummer drei in der Liste der erfolgreichsten Goalies aller Zeiten. Nur Patrick Roy (551) und Martin Brodeur (494) liegen vor ihm.

----------------------------

Atlantas Vick gesteht Hundekämpfe

Michael Vick hat sich schuldig bekannt. Der Quarterback der Atlanta Falcons bestätigte seine Verwicklungen in Hundekämpfe und muss nun mit einer Haftstrafe rechnen.
Die Strafmaß soll von einem Jahr Gefängnis bis hin zu fünf Jahren inklusive einer Geldstrafe von 250.000 Dollar reichen.
Als Erstsünder und aufgrund seines Geständnisses muss Vick zwar nicht die Maximalstrafe fürchten, allerdings wird damit gerechnet, dass gegen Tierquäler hart vorgegangen wird.

-----------------------------

Dolphins setzen auf Green

Trent Green wird bei den Miami Dolphins als neuer Starting Quarterback in die Saison gehen.
Der 37-Jährige setzte sich im Vorbereitungs-Camp intern knapp gegen den 27-jährigen Cleo Lemon durch.
Dolphins-Coach Cam Cameron begründete seine Entscheidung mit der gegenüber Lemon stärkeren Fähigkeit bei Green, ein Team zu führen. "Green bringt dafür alles mit", so Cameron, der Lemon diese Führungsrolle in Zukunft aber zutraut: "Cleo's Zeit wird noch kommen. Er hat noch viel Zeit, um sich zu entwickeln."


[sport1.de 21. Aug 2007]

30 Runs: Texas Rangers schreiben Geschichte


Mit einem Paukenschlag haben sich die Texas Rangers ihren Eintrag in die Baseball-Geschichtsbücher gesichert. In ihrem Sensations-Sieg gegen die Baltimore Orioles gelang es den Rangers, die höchste Anzahl von Punkten in einer Major-League-Baseball-Partie der letzten 110 Jahre zu erzielen.

Marlon Byrd sowie Travis Metcalf glückte ein sogenannter Grand Slam, bei dem drei Baseläufer und der Schlagmann selbst durch einen Homerun punkten können. Jarrod Saltalamacchia und Ramon Vazquez steuerten dem 30:3-Sieg jeweils zwei Homeruns bei.

"Wir haben nur mit den Köpfen geschüttelt", erklärte Byrd. "Niemand hat so etwas schon einmal gesehen. Und keiner wird es wieder sehen."

"Es war wunderbar", fügte Ron Washington, Manager der letztplatzierten Rangers hinzu und ergänzte: "Die gesamte Offensive hat perfekt funktioniert. Ich habe gehofft, dass wir offensiv stärker werden, aber damit konnte wirklich niemand rechnen."

Auf die Frage, wie die Orioles mit der höchsten Niederlage ihrer Geschichte umgehen werden, antwortete Generalmanager Dave Trembley nur knapp: "Wir müssen es schnell abhaken und nach vorn schauen."


[sportal.de 23.Aug.2007]


*kleine Anmerkung von mir: ich hatte noch mit dem Gedanken gespielt das Over zu nehmen es aber dann doch gelassen weil die beiden Teams einen Doubleheader (2 Spiele an einem Tag) gespielt haben....

Houston reagiert auf Niederlagen-Serie

Die Houston Astros haben auf die sportliche Talfahrt reagiert. Nach zuletzt fünf Niederlagen in sieben Spielen trennte man sich mit sofortiger Wirkung von Trainer Phil Garner. Mit einer Bilanz von 58-73 Siegen liegt das Team in der Central Divison der National League schon neun Siege hinter dem Führenden Team Chicago Cubs und ist nur noch eine Niederlage vom Schlusslicht entfernt. "Wir benötigen neue Ideen und müssen mit mehr Enthusiasmus an die Sache heran gehen", lautete die Erklärung von Club-Eigner Drayton McLane.


[sportal.de 28.Aug.2007]

Saisonvorschau NCAAF College Football League 2007/2008

Saisonvorschau NCAAF College Football League 2007/2008 Teil 1/2


Da an diesem Wochenende jenseits des großen Teiches wieder das College-Football-Spektakel startet hier eine Vorschau auf die Saison die auch als kleiner Überblick über die Massen an Teams dienen soll.

Mit College Football wird seit über 100 Jahren der American-Football-Spielbetrieb an US-amerikanischen Universitäten (Colleges) bezeichnet. Die Geschichte des American Football wurde größtenteils an diesen Colleges geschrieben, da die Profi-Footballer der National Football League (NFL) erst in den 1930er Jahren abweichende Regeln einführten.

College Football wird von der National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) organisiert. Hunderte von Universitäten nehmen am Spielbetrieb teil, da der Sport eine wichtige Aufgabe bei der Identitätsbildung erfüllt und zudem eine Einnahmequelle ist. Die Spiele der bedeutendsten Mannschaften haben über 100.000 Zuschauer und werden an Samstagen live im Fernsehen übertragen. Die Profis spielen deshalb nur am Sonntag.

[list]Atlantic Coast Conference (Atlantic/Coastal) (Boston College Eagles, Clemson Tigers, Duke Blue Devils, Florida State Seminoles, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, Maryland Terrapins, Miami Hurricanes, North Carolina Tar Heels, North Carolina State Wolfpack, Virginia Cavaliers, Virginia Tech Hokies, Wake Forest Demon Deacons)

Big 12 Conference (North/South) (Baylor Bears, Colorado Buffalos, Iowa State Cyclones, Kansas Jayhawks, Kansas State Wildcats, Missouri Tigers, Nebraska Cornhuskers, Oklahoma Sooners, Oklahoma State Cowboys, Texas Longhorns, Texas A&M Aggies, Texas Tech Red Raiders)

Big East Conference (Cincinnati Bearcats, Connecticut Huskies, Louisville Cardinals, Pittsburgh Panthers, Rutgers Scarlet Knights, South Florida Bulls, Syracuse Orange, West Virginia Mountaineers)

Big Ten Conference (Illinois Fighting Illini, Indiana Hoosiers, Iowa Hawkeyes, Michigan Wolverines, Michigan State Spartans, Minnesota Golden Gophers, Northwestern Wildcats, Ohio State Buckeyes, Penn State Nittany Lions, Purdue Boilermakers, Wisconsin Badgers)

Conference USA (East/West) (East Carolina Pirates, Houston Cougars, Marshall Thundering Herd, Memphis Tigers, Rice Owls, SMU Mustangs, Southern Miss Golden Eagles, Tulane Green Wave, Tulsa Golden Hurricane, UAB Blazers, UCF Golden Knights, UTEP Miners)

Mid-American Conference (East/West) (Akron Zips, Ball State Cardinals, Bowling Green Falcons, Buffalo Bulls, Central Michigan Chippewas, Eastern Michigan Eagles, Kent State Golden Flashes, Miami (OH) RedHawks, Northern Illinois Huskies, Ohio Bobcats, Temple Owls, Toledo Rockets, Western Michigan Broncos)

Mountain West Conference (Air Force Falcons, BYU Cougars, Colorado State Rams, New Mexico Lobos, San Diego State Aztecs, TCU Horned Frogs, UNLV Rebels, Utah Utes, Wyoming Cowboys)

Pacific Ten Conference (Arizona Wildcats, Arizona State Sun Devils, California Golden Bears, Oregon Ducks, Oregon State Beavers, Stanford Cardinal, UCLA Bruins, USC Trojans, Washington Huskies, Washington State Cougars)

Southeastern Conference (East/West) (Alabama Crimson Tide, Arkansas Razorbacks, Auburn Tigers, Florida Gators, Georgia Bulldogs, Kentucky Wildcats, LSU Tigers, Ole Miss Rebels, Mississippi State Bulldogs, South Carolina Gamecocks, Tennessee Volunteers, Vanderbilt Commodores)

Western Athletic Conference (Boise State Broncos, Fresno State Bulldogs, Hawaii Warriors, Idaho Vandals, Louisiana Tech Bulldogs, Nevada Wolf Pack, New Mexico State Aggies, San Jose State Spartans, Utah State Aggies)

Sun Belt Conference* (Arkansas State Indians, Florida Atlantic Owls, Florida International Golden Panthers, Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin' Cajuns, Louisiana-Monroe Indians, Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders, North Texas Mean Green, Troy Trojans)

Independents I-A* (Army, Navy, Notre Dame, Western Kentucky)[/list:u]
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* vorerst ohne Vorschau


Atlantic Coast Conference - Atlantic


The ACC became the whipping-boy of BCS conferences last season with a couple of its powerhouse schools having down seasons and the conference as a whole not faring well in elite non-conference matchups.

The ACC's Atlantic Division, however, boasts top-to-bottom balance that can restore some pride to the conference and will (if nothing else) give us a lot of entertaining football through the end of November in what should be an ultra-tight race.

Five schools from the Atlantic were bowl-bound in 2006 and it looks like more of the same in 2007.


Clemson Tigers

Clemson overcame its usual slow start last year only to lose four of its last five games, falling out of the end-of-season rankings altogether. The Tigers lost a lot of experience coming into 2007 but still have star running backs James Davis and C.J. Spiller, who combined for 2,179 yards and 27 touchdowns last year.

So expect offensive coordinator Rob Spence to call for a lot of running in Clemson this season, even more than usual considering the inexperience at quarterback. On defense, the Tigers need someone to pressure the quarterback now that Gaines Adams is in the NFL, but overall the unit could post some excellent numbers now that players like linebacker Tramaine Billie are healthy again.

Tommy Bowden opens the season against his father but has the fortune of doing so at home. The non-conference schedule is as easy as it comes, save the season finale at South Carolina. The conference slate is decent, with Clemsons toughest Atlantic battles being held at Memorial Stadium.

Predicted record: 9-3


Florida State Seminoles

Florida States ugly 13-10 win over Miami to open 2006 set the tone for an ugly season and the Seminoles schedule suggests itll be tough going for FSU in 2007 too. The opener at Clemson, a neutral-site game against Alabama and a tough month of November are all working against head coach Bobby Bowden.

The Seminoles ended last season on a positive note with a 44-point explosion against UCLA in the Emerald Bowl. They have a new offensive coordinator in place in Jimbo Fisher and enough athletes in the right spots to score points. The big offensive question is whether Drew Weatherford takes the star turn expected of him last year or if athletic Xavier Lee wrestles the fulltime quarterback spot away from him.

FSU has eight starters back on defense, including the entire secondary. The Seminoles hired former NC State head man Chuck Amato to look after a young crew of linebackers and defensive coordinator Mickey Andrews is never lacking speed on the defensive side.

Predicted record: 8-4


Boston College Eagles

The quarterback always gets the most love in football, so bettors who see that Matt Ryan is the top quarterback in the ACC could get carried away with the Boston College love. It doesnt help that the Eagles return a pair of seniors at running back and one of the better offensive lines in the conference too.

But its not all good news in Chestnut Hill. Tom OBrien was replaced by Jeff Jagodzinski and whereas consistency was an OBrien hallmark, Jags is in his first season as a head coach. New offensive coordinator Steve Logan most recently coached in NFL Europe. The new staff might work out, but the Eagles will be tested by a tougher opening trio of games than most BCS conference teams face.

Unfortunately, thats not even the hard part of the schedule - the second half is as rough as it comes in the ACC. BCs defense might prove to be the bigger strength this season despite its star power on offense. Theyll need to be with that schedule.

Predicted record: 8-4


Wake Forest Demon Deacons

Jim Grobe was rightly named national coach of the year after leading the Demon Deacons to the 2006 ACC title. Wake didnt get much respect, leading to a 7-0 ATS record as an underdog before barely failing to cover the number in the Orange Bowl.

Now Grobe faces an even tougher test; returning to a bowl game with an inexperienced defense and no more ability to surprise. The first two games against Boston College and Nebraska will tell bettors whether Wake is for real or if they were a one-hit wonder.

Riley Skinner had the top passer rating in the ACC last season because he was patient, mature beyond his years and a good fit for Wakes offensive schemes. Skinner will have backfield help in 2007 due to Micah Andrews recovery, which lets last years leading rusher Kenneth Moore return to wideout. The line is a plus, as is outstanding kicker Sam Swank. But all that amounts to little if the defense doesnt grow up quickly.

Predicted record: 7-5


Maryland Terrapins

Maryland rebounded from a pair of 5-6 seasons to go 9-4 last year, but was only 4-7 ATS before winning the Champs Sports Bowl. Howd it happen? The Terps barely squeaked by in too many close games for backers to profit off the good times in College Park. Many bettors would see that as a bad sign for 2007, but Ralph Friedgens team warrants a close look.

The skill positions are stacked, the line is solid and while neither quarterback fighting for the No. 1 spot has experience, both Jordan Steffy and Josh Portis have the ability to surprise this season. The questions for Maryland largely come from the defense. The Terps went 5-3 SU in ACC play last year, but were outgained in all but one of their wins. That wont cut it in 2007.

The Terrapins avoid Virginia Tech and Miami in the ACC slate, but face a pair of Big East powers in West Virginia and Rutgers to more than make up for it.

Predicted record: 7-5


North Carolina State Wolfpack

Theres a new boss in Raleigh and all he does is post winning seasons and win bowl games. NC State fans couldnt be happier to have Tom OBrien aboard and he doesnt have to wait long before facing his old troops. The Wolfpack visits BC on Sept. 8, a game that will give a lot of clues about NC States progress after a 3-9 SU and 3-8 ATS season in 2006.

OBrien likes to run the ball and the Wolfpack have just the backfield to win games by doing so. Toney Baker and Andre Brown are big-time talents and can buoy the offense while the quarterback situation resolves itself. OBrien brought offensive coordinator Dana Bible with him to Raleigh, so the O-line will be whipped into shape.

Mike Archer left Kentucky to run NC States defense and faces a challenge. Last years Wolfpack looked good against strong opponents before making bad offenses look like juggernauts the very next week. The line looks good as 2007 approaches, but the other defensive groups have holes to fill.

Predicted record: 6-6


Atlantic Coast Conference Coastal


Last years ACC Coastal featured two football teams fighting for supremacy, two proud schools fighting for mediocrity and two basketball campuses fighting for nothing in particular.

The main change in 2007 is at the top. Virginia Tech should separate itself from the rest of the conference, while Miami, Georgia Tech and Virginia could be in a tight battle for second. North Carolina and Duke will once again be far better at hoops than on the gridiron.

Quick question: whos the best quarterback in the division? No matter who your answer is, Ill bet hes pretty iffy, isnt he? Every team in the Coastal has concerns at QB, not a great thing for the four teams entertaining bowl hopes.


Virginia Tech Hokies

The Hokies lost in consecutive weeks to Georgia Tech and Boston College last year, costing them a shot at the ACC title. It was a bad slip-up for the conferences strongest team, as Va. Tech allowed less than five points per game over its final six regular season meetings despite playing four bowl-bound opponents.

The good news for head coach Frank Beamer is that the bulk of last years starters return. The Hokies will have one of the best defenses in the country and can always be counted on for good special team play. The offense should be solid with loads of talent at the skill positions, but can be better than solid if quarterback Sean Glennon steps up or backup Ike Whitaker is ready to step in.

The Sept. 8 visit to Baton Rouge has BCS Bowl ramifications for both Tech and LSU. The biggest conference tests for the Hokies are the Oct. 6 visit to Clemson and the Oct. 1 Thursday-nighter at Georgia Tech.

Predicted record: 10-2


Miami Hurricanes

The good news for the Canes is that 2007 cant be worse than 2006. New head coach Randy Shannon has a huge early challenge with a Sept. 8 visit to Oklahoma. Miamis other non-conference test is a Sept. 20 visit from Texas A&M. The ACC slate starts off a lot easier than it ends, with intimidating trips to Virginia Tech and Boston College on Nov. 17 and Nov. 24 respectively.

The Hurricanes defense was their strength in 2006 and should be just as strong this year despite losing two first-round talents in the NFL Draft. Opposing quarterbacks will drop back in fear this year against Miami.

The question marks are on the offensive side of the ball. Miami doesnt recruit skill players like it did in the glory days and last seasons scores prove it. The starting quarterback slot is still open. If Javarris James can dominate in his sophomore year, an ACC title could be possible, but the Hurricanes combined 8-16 against-the-spread (ATS) record over the last two seasons underlines the schools status with the betting public.

Predicted record: 9-3


Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets

Georgia Tech couldve and shouldve clinched a berth in the Orange Bowl last year but couldnt score a touchdown in a dreadful ACC Championship game last December. They settled for the Gator Bowl, where they proceeded to rack up 35 points on a quintet of offensive majors.

The Yellow Jackets lost superstar Calvin Johnson from last years squad, but otherwise return a ton of talent. The offensive line might be the best in the ACC and Tashard Choice is a very good college running back. Taylor Bennett looked good at quarterback last year but doesnt have a deep receiving corps to help him along this year. The blitz-happy defense returns eight starters from 2006 and will be a strength again this fall.

Techs schedule has tough bookends with a visit to Notre Dame to open the season and its annual hate-fest with the Dawgs to close it out. Trips to Maryland and Miami are the toughest conference road games.

Predicted record: 8-4


Virginia Cavaliers

The key number in Charlottesville is 19. Thats how many starters return this year, including 10 players on an already decent defense. The Cavaliers were young in 2006 and werent expecting to compete for the Coastal title, but still disappointed with the schools first losing season since 2001.

They were especially bad against non-conference opponents, going 1-3 straight up (SU) and 0-4 ATS. Their sole non-conference win was an overtime victory at home over Wyoming when the Cavs had been 9-point favorites. Virginia opens 2007 with a visit to Wyoming, a measuring stick for the teams improvement.

The Cavaliers could be a good bet this season because of the question marks at quarterback and running back. Those are marquee positions that attract public bettors when filled but keep tem away when there are concerns. The defense alone could be good enough for a 6-1 start while the offensive backfield sorts itself out for the tougher ACC games.

Predicted record: 7-5


North Carolina Tar Heels

North Carolinas new head coach Butch Davis will have a decent team - in 2009. The Heels are in the exact opposite boat the Cavaliers find themselves in as only nine starters return to Chapel Hill after a very bad 2006 season in which UNC went 3-9 SU and 4-7 ATS.

The offense could be ugly. Last years top passer, Joe Dailey, moved to wide receiver. The top returning rusher, Barrington Edwards, is suspended indefinitely and the projected top tailback for 2007 is named Richie Rich. The young offensive line has to replace both starters on the left side.

The defense was poor last season, save for a late two-week stretch in which it held consecutive conference opponents to single digits. It could be even worse this year with only four starters returning and the highly-acclaimed recruits too inexperienced to play starring roles. The schedule goes downhill after opening with James Madison.

Predicted record: 3-9


Duke Blue Devils

Dukes 0-12 SU record in 2006 screams disaster, but highlights can always be found if you look hard enough. The Blue Devils lost by a single point to the eventual ACC champs, they couldve beaten usually-mighty Miami, and the offense kept them in an entertaining 45-44 loss to UNC.

All 11 starters return on the offensive side of the ball, but there just isnt enough talent to get excited for SU wins. The key will be watching their development through the season to see if Dukes worth playing with the points. The Blue Devils were 3-2 ATS on the road last season, a fact worth noting with seven away games in 2007.

The defense returns only five starters and lost its biggest talent when cornerback John Talley graduated. Duke didnt schedule a Division 1-AA opponent this year and will be vulnerable to every single attack it faces. The opener against UConn and the finale at Chapel Hill are the Devils best chances for wins.

Predicted record: 0-12


Big 12 Conference - North


The Big 12 North still has a long way to go before it can overcome its inferiority complex in relation to its southern counterpart, but the good news is that a few teams have risen above the mediocrity that plagued the division the last few years. Nebraska, Missouri and Kansas State all look like they have the talent to tangle with Texas and Oklahoma and, if not come away with wins, at least make bettors think long and hard about taking the points in a North-South showdown.


Nebraska Cornhuskers

Normally, youd be worried about the prospects of a team that was forced to replace the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year, but sometimes things just fall in your lap. Thats kind of what happened to Nebraska when former Arizona State starting quarterback Sam Keller transferred to play for Big Red. Keller brings his superior skills and valuable experience to Lincoln to fill the shoes of the departed Zac Taylor, who efficiently ran the West Coast offense for the last two years. If anyone can pick up where Taylor left off, its Keller.

In the backfield, running back Marlon Lucky will make life easier for whoever ends up under center and the defense is going to be stacked again. Even though the Huskers lost all four of their starting D-linemen, this is Nebraska, where big, nasty linemen are as common as John Deere tractors. This team looks loaded and ready to take the Big 12 North again this year.

Predicted record: 9-3


Missouri Tigers

This is a team that could make some serious cash. Things are only going to get better for the Tigers as Chase Daniel continues to emerge as a star quarterback, taking advantage of some of the best receivers in the conference and a rock solid offensive line.

The defense lost a couple of major contributors at the safety position, but tremendous talent on the defensive line and at linebacker (watch out for sophomore Sean Weatherspoon on the outside) will shore up this unit and keep every game within reach. After a disappointing finish to the 2006 season, few observers are looking for big things from Missouri, but the squad has the talent on offense to put up serious points. If the defense plays half as well as it did last year, this team should have no trouble making a few bucks for supporters this season.

Predicted record: 8-4


Kansas State Wildcats

A new hero emerged in Manhattan, Kansas, last season as Josh Freeman went from unknown freshman to star quarterback in a matter of months. If you saw him throw three touchdown passes in a monumental upset of Texas (+16 ½), it was clear that first-year coach Ron Prince had found a special player. The future starts now for Kansas State. If Freeman can avoid the sophomore slump and cut down on the interceptions he was prone to in his freshman year - these Wildcats could be a great bet to cover more than a few spreads in 2007.

The defense was stable last year, but showed some weakness against the run. Moving to a 3-4 isnt going to help with that problem and they may struggle against the conferences better running teams. A Sept. 1 non-conference showdown with Auburn will be a good indicator of what bettors can expect from K-State this season.

Predicted record: 7-5


Kansas Jayhawks

This is not a team that looks set to improve in 2007. Their record-setting running back, Jon Cornish, is gone, leaving a big void in the backfield. That means that when coach Mark Mangino finally chooses his starting quarterback, the lucky guy will have to figure out how to run the offense without depending on Cornish as the safety net. That wont be easy with an offensive line that gave up 26 sacks last year and too frequently allowed pass rushers to send the quarterback running for his life. On top of that, there arent any serious receiving threats and neither Kerry Meier or Todd Reesing (Manginos two options at quarterback) have shown great accuracy.

The defense wasnt as bad as it looked on paper last year, but you cant ignore that the 274.2 yards per game they gave up against the pass was the worst in the country. With three of the four best passing teams in the conference on the schedule, that weakness could be fatal for the Jayhawks if it isn't corrected.

Predicted record: 6-6


Iowa State Cyclones

Its hard to find anything good to say about Iowa State - and thats not just because of the crumbling facilities and tumbleweed ambiance. The teams defense was terrible last year, allowing more points and yards per game than every other Big 12 team with the exception of Baylor. The offense wasnt much to write home about either, able to ring up only 18.8 points per game last year.

The one good thing you can say for the Cyclones this year is that new head coach Gene Chizik is looking to make an instant impact in Ames. The recruiting guru brought in a slew of experienced players from the junior college ranks. But with a whole new staff and new system at Iowa State, a winning season is too much to hope for.

Predicted record: 5-7


Colorado Buffaloes

In his days at Boise State, Dan Hawkins proved he could build a winning program. At Colorado, however, hes going to have to prove he can lead a team through adversity. After two disastrous seasons (including a 2-10 campaign in Hawkins first crack in the Big 12 last year) the Buffaloes still dont have the tools to assemble a winning season. Theres no quarterback on the roster that looks ready to lead Hawkins spread offense and although running back Hugh Charles is a playmaker, in this offense the run is supposed to complement the pass, not the other way around. Until Colorado finds a competent passer, this team wont win in the Big 12.

Predicted record: 3-9



Big 12 Conference - South


The South will rise again? It doesnt have to in the Big 12 because its already on top.

The South division had the conferences two best teams, Oklahoma and Texas, and three more bowl-bound teams in 2006. They let Big 12 bettors down in bowl season, however, as those teams covered the spread in only one of their five bowl games.

Scheduling is a huge issue when sorting out the conference standings, with home games meaning so much when facing equally talented opponents. Theres no bigger game, of course, than the Red River Shootout on Oct. 6 between the Sooners and the Longhorns.

Heres how the Big 12 South shapes up in 2007.


Oklahoma Sooners

Oklahoma may have won the Big 12, but football fans will remember 2006 as the year the Sooners lost to Boise State in an amazing Fiesta Bowl. Head coach Bob Stoops has the weapons and the schedule to not only resurface in the national title chase, but to erase memories of last year along the way.

Miami visits on Sept. 8, but these aint your daddys Hurricanes. Following that contest, their "road game" against Tulsa will be like a home game played in a smaller stadium. The conference road schedule is decent and the Sooners are nigh unbeatable at home in Big 12 play. That leaves the Red River Shootout as the key to a BCS bowl game run.

Theres a battle in Norman for starting quarterback, but the O-line is big enough and the skill positions talented enough to put points on the board no matter who takes the snaps. A decent game manager will do. The defensive secondary is the best in the conference, but theyll be tested regularly if the front seven cant pressure opposing quarterbacks. The special teams in Norman are even more special than usual.

Predicted record: 11-1


Texas Longhorns

The Longhorns lost their last two regular season games as heavy favorites against Kansas State and Texas A&M. The losses put an end to conference title hopes in 2006, but Mack Brown has a team that could end up on top again in 2007. Texas offensive and defensive units are at or near the top of the Big 12 heap.

Colt McCoy is back to lead the offense and he has perhaps the nations top group of receivers as targets. The line is young, however, and needs to have its act together before facing the Sooners. Its hard to top the Horns front seven on defense, where theres size, speed, experience, savvy and depth to spare. The same cant be said of the secondary, which lost a pair of all-conference players to the NFL.

Texas has its only non-conference test early when TCU visits Austin on Sept. 8. After that, national title hopes hinge on the Oklahoma game and even if the Horns win that one, a conference title could be on the line in the season finale at College Station against Texas A&M.

Predicted record: 11-1


Oklahoma State Cowboys

The offense is balanced, the defense is getting better and confidence is rising in Stillwater. The Cowboys were an entertaining team to watch in 2006 and their Independence Bowl win over Alabama was no exception. The key for 2007 is to get tougher and - cowboy up, as it were.

Bobby Reid is a solid two-way threat and is difficult to bring down at his playing weight of 235 pounds. Feature back Dantrell Savage is a whippet while Keith Toston combines size and speed nicely in the backfield. Receiver Adarius Bowman, a potential All-American, is the star of a potent offense.

The question for Oklahoma State is whether the defense can actually hold a conference opponent to fewer than 24 points, something they couldnt do in eight tries in 2006. Heres saying that a top-notch group of linebackers leads to a upset or two in Big 12 play.

Predicted record: 8-4


Texas A&M Aggies

The Aggies were Big 12 contenders last year, but this years schedule should derail any conference title hopes in College Station. Miami, Texas Tech, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Missouri - and thats just the road schedule. Add a visit from the Longhorns and a seven-win season isnt too much of a letdown after a 9-4 campaign in 2006.

A&M wont have a problem running the ball. Mike Goodson and Jorvorskie Lane are a legit lightning-and-thunder combo and quarterback Stephen McGee can scramble with the best of them. The offensive line is experienced and flat-out good. The aerial game will struggle to stretch the field when asked to do so.

The Aggies allowed 31.2 points per game in 2005, then hired Gary Darnell as defensive coordinator and trimmed that number to 20.5 last year. The defense was solid against the Sooners and Horns (24 combined points in two games) but suspect against lesser lights in the Big 12. The line is solid, but A&M doesnt recruit national defensive talent like the conferences top schools.

Predicted record: 7-5


Texas Tech Red Raiders

Lubbock likes a winner and thats what the town has been given during head coach Mike Leachs entire tenure. Hes a master of the spread offense and quarterback Graham Harrell, Leachs star pupil, returns after throwing for 4,555 yards and 38 touchdowns last year. Harrells top two targets graduated, but Leach has no problem stacking his team with receivers.

The problems for the Red Raiders lie outside of the passing game. Only one starter returns on each of the offensive and defensive lines. There isnt a lot of depth in the trenches either and the same is true at linebacker. Texas Techs defense could grow an unhealthy dependence on its experienced secondary.

Luckily for Leach, the schedule in 2007 should allow for another winning season and yet another bowl game. The Sept. 22 visit to Oklahoma State and A&Ms trip to Lubbock on Oct. 13 should decide whether Tech finishes third, fourth or fifth in the South.

Predicted record: 7-5


Baylor Bears

Baylor won three conference games last year for the first time in Guy Morriss tenure as head coach. Unfortunately all three victories came against teams from the North. The Bears were 0-5 SU against their rivals in the South with an average margin of defeat of 28.8 points. The average spread in those five games was +17 points, but Baylor still managed to go 0-5 ATS.

The 2007 schedule could allow for an improvement on last years overall 4-8 SU record, but the Bears are likely to go winless against the South again in 2007 thanks to the player turnover on both sides of the ball.

Kent State grad Michael Machen takes over at quarterback as a 25-year old. Hell be hard-pressed to duplicate Shawn Bells success from last year, especially with only one returning starter in the skill positions. The defense returns seven starters, but that might not be a good thing, given some of Baylors final scores in 2006.

Predicted record: 4-8



Big East Conference


The Big East won a lot of favor last year and not just because of Louisville and West Virginia, the conferences expected powers. Rutgers joined the Cardinals and the Mountaineers high in the national rankings and the three teams combined for 34-5 straight-up (SU) and 23-13-1 against-the-spread (ATS) records in 2006.

South Florida and Cincinnati joined the Big Three in the bowl scene and did the conference proud by winning their postseason games, making the Big East 5-0 SU in bowl games. Its five teams provided paydays over 63 percent of the time for the season as a whole.

That gives the Big East a lot to live up to in 2007. Luckily theres a boatload of talent returning, enough to put half of the conferences eight teams in most preseason top-25 polls.

Heres how we see things shaping up.


West Virginia Mountaineers

Rich Rodriguezs boys might repeat last seasons 7-0 SU start, but wont match the 28-point average margin of victory over the same span. The Mountaineers have three tough road games over a four-week span in September culminating with a Sept. 29 visit to South Florida.

West Virginia will be favored for each of those games due to its backfield, commonly cited as the nations best. Tailback Steve Slaton and quarterback Pat White are burners embedded in the Heisman Trophy chase. Fullback Owen Schmitt is a good runner and an even better blocker. Opponents found out last year that White is a good passer when needed, but why bother with the pass when no one can stop the run?

The defense gave up too many passing yards late last season, often a byproduct of an AWOL pass rush. Eight starters return and even a slight improvement could lead to a Big East title with the Cardinals visiting Morgantown this year.

Predicted record: 11-1


Louisville Cardinals

The Cardinals should be fine through October, though visits to Kentucky, North Carolina State and Cincinnati pose threats with all three hosts looking to prove themselves against a national powerhouse. Louisville should handle all three, however, thanks to its high-powered offense.

Quarterback Brian Brohm is another Heisman candidate in the Big East and has two elite receivers and a tight end on the verge of stardom as targets. George Stripling and Anthony Allen should combine to match the departed Michael Bushs numbers from 2005.

Bobby Petrino headed to the pros, but new head coach Steve Kragthorpe is a great replacement, especially on the offensive side of the ball. Unfortunately, the Cardinals have a lot of defensive talent to replace, which doesnt bode well for their killer November schedule (at WVU, USF and Rutgers).

Predicted record: 10-2


South Florida Bulls

Quarterback Matt Grothe was the story last year as he led the young Bulls to the cusp of national rankings and a win at the Papajohns.com Bowl. The story this year will be South Floridas defensive speed. Having a pair of the conferences top shutdown corners increases everyone elses confidence on defense, one that already limited the Big East big boys to impressively low outputs last year.

The offense should be fine as long as Grothe stays healthy. The line is experienced, the underrated receiving corps is loaded with speed and the underachieving backfield is quietly stockpiling talent.

South Floridas biggest scheduling problem is its Sept. 8 visit to Auburn. An upset win would do wonders, but how demoralizing would a big loss against an SEC power be? The Bulls host West Virginia and Louisville but visit its main opponent for third place in the conference with an Oct. 18 trip to Rutgers.

Predicted record: 9-3


Rutgers Scarlet Knights

Rutgers schedule-makers gave the Knights a big boost before the season even started. The schools non-conference games arent overly intimidating and the Knights host their most important Big East games with the exception of the season-ending visit to Louisville.

Ray Rice is back in the Rutgers backfield, but hes not surrounded by elite talent. Mike Teel is easily the weakest starting quarterback among the conferences upper-half teams and he lost his top targets in tight end Clark Harris and fullback Brian Leonard. If Teel cant develop something with his wide receivers, opposing defenders will key on Rice even more than they did late last season.

The Knights defense should be strong again with Greg Schianos zone blitz going wild and a pair of very good safeties keeping opposing receivers honest. The September home games against Navy and Maryland will dictate the type of bowl Rutgers will play in at seasons end.

Predicted record: 9-3


Cincinnati Bearcats

Head coach Brian Kelly already has a win under his belt with the Bearcats thanks to last Januarys triumph in the International Bowl. The team we see in September, however, will barely resemble what we saw in Toronto, as Kellys had a chance to mold Cincinnatis football team in his image over subsequent months.

The offense becomes a no-huddle spread attack and it remains to be seen whether Dustin Grutzas the right man to quarterback the "Cat Attack" or if former Wake Forest man Benjamin Mauk will take the reins. Lots of starters return to the defense, but they wont be playing for defensive ace Mark Dantonio anymore and theyre learning a new scheme as well.

The non-conference schedule will illustrate the Bearcats progress in Year 1 of the Kelly regime. A 5-0 record through Sept. 29 would have them returning to a bowl, but a 3-2 record is more likely over that span.

Predicted record: 6-6


Pittsburgh Panthers

The pressures building on Pitt head coach Dave Wannstedt, whose big name hasnt led to a winning season or bowl appearance since he started in 2005. Giving up big-time points to Louisville and West Virginia is expected, but letting Michigan State score 38 and Connecticut score 46 when the Panthers were favored in each game? Come on.

The loss of linebacker H.B Blades and cornerback Darrelle Revis hurts the defense, but not as much as the loss of quarterback Tyler Palko hurts the offense. The line looks fine and the starters from the other skill positions return, but the three-way battle for the quarterback spot will determine Pitts offensive output.

The Panthers conference schedule includes a trio of road trips to Big East powers. The non-conference schedule includes road trips to Michigan State and Virginia that will likely determine whether Pitt plays a bowl game or not this year.

Predicted record: 6-6


Connecticut Huskies

Connecticuts offense returns a lot of starters at skill positions and a ton of linemen with varying degrees of experience as a starter. Theres no clear-cut quarterback in place, however, with last years top passer D.J. Hernandez moving to wideout this year. That puts too much pressure on sophomore running back Donald Brown to produce big-time yards.

The Huskies in 2006 made opposing running backs salivate and losses at the tackle and safety slots arent going to help UConns poor rush defense in the least.

On the plus side, the Huskies have scheduled Duke, Maine and Temple to kick off 2007. A 3-0 start to the season could build enough confidence to pull off an upset or two later in the schedule. But a bowl doesnt look likely for head coach Randy Edsalls boys.

Predicted record: 5-7


Syracuse Orange

Syracuse was a moneymaking team last season, starting 2006 7-1 ATS thanks to an underrated defense. The Orange return only five defensive starters, however, and are replacing its entire starting group of linebackers.

Andrew Robinson is the new quarterback in head coach Greg Robinsons West Coast offense and he has some nice receivers as his top targets. The talent level at Syracuse, however, just doesnt meet the other schools of the Big East, as evidenced by the 1-13 SU and 4-10 ATS conference records during the Robinson regime.

The Orange also booked a tough non-conference schedule, including visits to Iowa and Louisville in September. The Carrier Dome gave ‘Cuse an edge last season (5-1 ATS), but the Orange will be hard-pressed to match that pace with the 2007 home schedule they face.

Predicted record: 3-9


Big Ten Conference


Michigan Wolverines

Lloyd Carrs Wolverines are expected to go Hollywood and show off more flash on the offensive side than fans might be used to. Maybe it's because the coach has been hanging out with Russell Crowe in the offseason, but it's probably got more to do with the stable of talent on the offensive side. Traditionally, Michigan has built its championship teams on a foundation of solid defense, but this year should be different. Four defensive starters were drafted to the NFL and coordinator Ron English will have a lot to prove this year as the unit is rebuilt almost from scratch, but the secondary is solid and that should help.

More importantly, the offense will be stacked. Quarterback Chad Henne is back for his senior season and although he was outshined by another Big Ten quarterback last season, this will be Hennes year to steal the show. Hell have a big, nasty offensive line with Mike Hart in the backfield and Mario Manningham putting fear into the hearts of defensive backs across the Midwest. Those weapons should be enough for Michigan to outgun Ohio State and win a 43rd Big Ten title.

Predicted record: 11-1


Ohio State Buckeyes

Not every team is USC - not even Ohio State. After the departure of Troy Smith, the Buckeyes have a major personnel problem as they try to find the guy to replace their Heisman-winning quarterback. After the spring game, the front-runner looks to be junior Todd Boeckman, but not far behind is sophomore Robby Schoenhoft. Throw redshirt freshman Antonio Henton in the mix and youve got yourself a full-blown free-for-all behind center - and while all these guys show promise, none of them are likely to collect any hardware this year.

In the spring game, the three QBs were a combined 21-for-45.

Whoever eventually wins the job, they wont have much veteran help with receivers Ted Ginn, Anthony Gonzalez and tailback Antonio Pittman all gone to the NFL, but prepare for the emergence of new stars like receiver Brian Robiskie and 230-pound speedster Chris Wells at tailback. The defense will again be one of the best in the conference, but after the reputation the Buckeyes have earned over the last five or six years, theyll have to repeat last year's 10.4 points allowed per game performance to cover pointspreads this year. That will be tough to do with only five returning starters.

Predicted record: 11-1


Wisconsin Badgers

Heres another team that lost its starting quarterback, but unlike most other schools, Wisconsin doesnt ask its signal caller to win games with his arm. With John Stocco trying to find a home in the NFL, senior Tyler Donovan will take over behind the usual group of inhumanly large offensive linemen. He looked OK in his few appearances last year, but his main job will be to hand the ball to P.J. Hill and watch the sophomore run to what could be a Heisman Trophy year.

On defense, the Badgers will be absolutely impregnable. Last years unit allowed the fewest yards per game in the Big Ten and third fewest in the country, and will return largely intact. There will be a few missing pieces in the secondary from last years nation-leading pass efficiency defense, but a strong pass rush from the D-line will help as the new defensive backs get comfortable.

Predicted record: 10-2


Purdue Boilermakers

Faithful supporters have been waiting for this team to live up to expectations, but its been nothing but disappointments in West Lafayette in recent years. The Boilermakers have had the talent to contend for a Big Ten title for the last couple of seasons, but Joe Tiller hasnt been able to motivate his troops. Defense has been the core of the problem and it might not be a good thing that nine starters return to a unit that allowed the most rushing yards in the Big Ten in 2006. However, there is plenty of talent here and bettors would be advised to watch how this defense performs early on because, as bad as theyve been, if they ever gets it together they could surprise the conference.

Another potential breakout star could be quarterback Curtis Painter. His impressive numbers last year were obscured by the teams six losses, but he still threw for almost 4,000 yards (fourth in the nation). Hes also got one of the best targets in the game in Dorien Bryant. If these two underrated stars play at their best this season, the offense should be able to cover the home pointspreads that stung backers last year.

Predicted record: 9-3


Penn State Nittany Lions

They dont call this place Linebacker U for nothing. Even though Paul Posluszny isnt anchoring the defense in University Park anymore, they have another NFL-quality linebacker to take over in Dan Conner. The secondary will also be secure with Justin King and Anthony Scirrotto ball-hawking in the shadows, but its the front four that will be a topic of debate until the season is underway. Big Ten teams will probably try to run the ball against this young defensive line, so much of the Nittany Lions success will depend on how they perform.

Theres also a considerable amount of pressure on senior quarterback Anthony Morelli, who hasnt yet lived up to lofty expectations. He has to get over his Jeff George syndrome and stop trying to show off his arm strength on every passing play. A little patience and better decision-making will benefit the quarterback and his team.

Predicted record: 8-4


Illinois Fighting Illini

Say what you will about Ron Zook and his poor coaching record (including four wins in two seasons at Illinois) but youve got to think things are looking up for Illinois this fall. Zook just signed one of the best recruiting classes in the conference, which he can add to some incredible talent already on the roster.

Even though the Illini were burried under a pile of losses last season, they covered against Iowa, Michigan State, Penn State, Wisconsin and Ohio State. You can expect more of the same as Zook builds his team around Juice Williams, the quarterback who spent last season auditioning for the role of most exciting player in the nation. If the recent spring game is anything to go by, Williams showed improvement in his accuracy and also found a new deep threat in freshman wideout Arrelious Benn, who caught five passes for 145 yards. Dont pop the corks yet, but it could be a good year in Champaign.

Predicted record: 7-5


Michigan State Spartans

This team will certainly miss quarterback Drew Stanton, who will be playing up the road with the Detroit Lions this year, but a solid offensive line can make such transitions go much more smoothly. The Spartans are in good shape up front with seniors at left tackle, left guard and center and returning starters at every spot on the front lines. A unit like that is also a big help for new head coach Mark Dantonio, who can depend on sound blocking and solid running game with three returning running backs while he works to build up the program.

However, most of the preseason previews have set Michigan State way down in the polls, one even picking them to finish as low as 10th in the Big Ten. They may be in rebuilding mode, but this is a team that has underachieved for the better part of a decade under former coach John L. Smith. Bettors should keep a close eye on pointspreads because it could be time the Spartans finally exceed a few expectations.

Predicted record: 6-6


Minnesota Golden Gophers

Most preseason polls picked the Gophers to occupy the Big Ten basement this year, but this is a team that could be primed for an improvement. After the embarrassing loss in last years Insight Bowl, Glen Mason was fired and Tim Brewster was brought in as head coach. The former tight-ends coach for the Denver Broncos and San Diego Chargers is known for his recruiting prowess from his days at the University of Texas, but it's his enthusiasm and leadership that should benefit this team immediately.

Minnesota really wasnt as bad as they looked on paper last year. They came out on the wrong end of a lot of close games and, aside from blowouts against Ohio State and Wisconsin, they were competitive in almost every game. The Gophers covered the spread in their last four games of the season and even though they blew a 31-point lead in their bowl game, they still covered as 8-point underdogs to Texas Tech. That could be something to build on this year.

Predicted record: 6-6


Iowa Hawkeyes

Take a good look at Iowas 2006 against-the-spread record and burn it into your memory. You might want to believe in this team, but you might as well light your bankroll on fire if youre even thinking about betting on the Hawkeyes after they covered in just two games last year. Everyone expected big things from Drew Tate and Co., but the season turned into an unmitigated disaster that included losses to Indiana and Northwestern.

Forget that they put on a show in a 26-24 loss to Texas as a 9-point underdog in the Alamo Bowl. They lost Tate, they lost three of their best offensive linemen and although theyll have what looks to be a good defense on paper, if you still think Kirk Ferentz can lead this team to victory, then you deserve to lose your money.

Predicted record: 5-7


Northwestern Wildcats

Theyve been the ugly stepsister of the Big Ten for as long as anyone can remember and despite the blip in the space-time continuum that allowed them to go 7-4 in 2005, Northwestern isnt going to get any prettier this year.

Their offense was the worst in the conference last year and you can't hope for much more this year. Their defense is toothless. They didnt get within ten yards of the opposing quarterback last year and this might be the slowest defense in the conference. They have some size up front, which might help, but with back-to-back games against Ohio State and Michigan to start their Big Ten schedule, their season might be over before it really gets started.

Predicted record: 4-8


Indiana Hoosiers

Terry Hoeppner brought hope to Indiana when he arrived two years ago. He led the team to upset wins over Michigan Sate (+19) and Iowa (+6 ½) last year and things were supposed to continue to improve this year. Many bettors had the Hoosiers on their radars until the head coachs health went south and kept him from his duties, a scenario that will doubtlessly hurt the teams chances this year.

Hoeppner had two brain surgeries over the last two months to remove tumors and it is still uncertain when hell return to Bloomington. It will be difficult for the Hoosiers to develop the consistency needed to turn a few shocking upsets into a winning season without their head coach at the helm. There is some great talent on the team - not the least of which is quarterback Kellen Lewis- but without direction and leadership, this team is likely to slide back into the abyss it's been in for the last decade.
Predicted record: 4-8


Conference USA - East


Up and down, up and down - theres enough movement among Conference USAs eastern schools from year-to-year to cause motion sickness. Southern Mississippi is the sole exception and the Eagles solid play should continue in 2007.

East Carolina joined them as the only other C-USA East team with a winning record last year but the Pirates lost too much for a repeat this time around. Memphis and UCF were the Easts top teams in 2005 before big letdowns last year. Both schools should rebound to challenge Southern Miss this fall. And so it goes...


Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles

Jeff Bowers Golden Eagles have been C-USAs safest bet to make it to a bowl game in recent years and theres no reason to suspect 2007 will disappoint. Southern Mississippi has key returnees on offense, the best defense in the division and a stable program in a conference known for instability.

The Eagles are stacked in the backfield with Damion Fletcher, who gained 1,388 yards on the ground as a true freshman last year, senior quarterback Jeremy Young, headed for a much-improved campaign, and incoming runner Antwain Easterling, another star in the making. The interior of the offensive line is a concern, but Bowers reliance on the running game should ensure a line that is aware of its tasks.

Southern Miss is stacked defensively in its front seven and only looks vulnerable at corner, where two new starters will line up this season. The Eagles held visiting opponents to 93.5 rushing yards per game and 2.9 yards per carry at home last year and have the 2007 schedule to improve on those numbers.

Predicted record: 9-3


Memphis Tigers

Memphis had a top runner in DAngelo Williams and a top kicker in Stephen Gostkowski when the school went 24-13 straight up (SU) and 17-17 against the spread (ATS) from 2003 through 2005. Last year proved too harsh an adjustment for the Tigers as they dropped to 2-10 SU and 3-7-1 ATS. They went from 268 to 112 rushing yards per game in their new spread offense and lost four games by a field goal or less.

The depth of the Tigers fall was overly drastic and sets them up for a quick recovery this year. Memphis doesnt have a dominant offensive star like Williams, but boasts the most balanced and deepest unit in the division with a full season of the spread under its belt. Kicker Matt Reagen was C-USA all-frosh last year and has the leg to put the Tigers on the winning side of close games.

Well forecast a Tigers rebound under the assumption that head coach Tommy West wont fire his defensive coordinator and take over the defense in September again. Rick Kravitz runs the show this year and eight starters return to his revamped 4-3.

Predicted record: 8-4


UCF Golden Knights

Head coach George OLeary was at the helm of the NCAAs biggest turnaround, winning eight games in 2005 after a winless first season in Orlando. OLearys boys suffered a disappointing 2006 campaign but UCF should bounce back to bowl eligibility again behind its 17 returning starters.

Quarterback Kyle Israel isnt among the returning starters but has loads of experience. Israel was the main man behind center in half of the Knights games last year and connected on 35 of his 42 passes in the final two. Hell have the conferences most experienced line in front of him and one of its most explosive backs behind him in Kevin Smith.

Nine starters return on defense and will be under the tutelage of new defensive coordinator John Skladany. They have nowhere to go but up after four consecutive seasons allowing 28.7 points per game or more. UCFs schedule is tough, both in terms of non-conference opponents and C-USA road tests, and keeps the school from a more impressive record.

Predicted record: 6-6


East Carolina Pirates

Arrr, them thar Pirates be holdin treasure! East Carolinas 12-12 SU record under head coach Skip Holtz isnt a knockout, but bettors have noticed the schools 18-6 ATS mark during the same period. Holtz led the Pirates to their first bowl appearance in five years on the strength of a defense that held opponents to 20.8 points per game (two years after they allowed 39.9 per).

The defense could be just as good in 2007 but there are a lot of holes to fill on offense and East Carolinas September schedule could be a confidence-killer. The Pirates play a pair of BCS-conference favorites, C-USAs two best teams and another BCS-conference team in a difficult opening month.

East Carolinas offensive unit will be tested during that span with a new quarterback lining up behind a less experienced line, and with a new tailback and two new receivers in starting roles. The ATS run in Greenville will come to an end if the Pirates 07 lines are based on 06 performance.

Predicted record: 5-7


Marshall Thundering Herd

The good news in Huntington, WV, is that C-USA defensive player of the year Albert McClellan will benefit from a new defensive scheme and more experienced teammates around him. Marshall allowed nearly 30 points per game last season, the Herds second losing season in a row. New defensive coordinator Steve Dunlap will blitz away and let McClellan improve on last years 11 ½ quarterback sacks.

The bad news is that offensive dynamo Ahmad Bradshaw left school early to go pro and left a hole at running back that wont be filled in 2007. That puts more pressure on the quarterback, a position where questions abound at Marshall - Bernard Morris is a great athlete but doesnt meet the schools high standards for the position.

Marshalls conference road games are against some of C-USAs top schools and the Herd plays a trio of tough BCS-conference foes in September, thereby assuring another losing season at a school that had grown comfortable with bowl game appearances.

Predicted record: 4-8


UAB Blazers

Everywhere you look this summer, someones predicting the Blazers to finish in the C-USA East basement. Its understandable once you examine UABs 2006 results, and its 2007 roster, schedule and overall scene in Birmingham.

The Blazers were 3-9 SU last year, 2-6 in conference play, and return only four starters on each side of the ball. Both lines are rebuilding and UAB could get decimated in its opening games at Michigan State and at Florida State as a result. It may not get better once the conference schedule begins, either: the Blazers dont have a game-breaker on offense and teams should be able to pound the ball against the defense.

UABs best player is safety Will Dunbar, whose tackle totals should jump this year with all the opposing runners blasting through the Blazers front seven. New head coach Neil Callaway wasnt given much to work with and it might take more than one season for UAB to regain respectability in C-USA.

Predicted record: 2-10


Conference USA - West


The West is the best in C-USA as well as the NBA and NHL. While Houston, Tulsa and Rice all lost their respective bowl games last year, the division should fare well in conference battles against Eastern foes in the months ahead.

The Cougars are favored to repeat as Western champs, but the Golden Hurricane's new offense could throw a wrinkle in matters, as could improvement from both UTEP and SMU.


Houston Cougars

Houston lost C-USAs marquee name and its most valuable player when Kevin Kolb wrapped up his fourth season as starting quarterback, but the Cougars should fare just fine with Blake Joseph taking over Kolbs job.

The offensive line has the potential to dominate and Houston is stacked with talent at the skill positions. Converted receiver Anthony Alridge averaged 10.1 yards per carry in a near 1,000-yard season last year and is the most dangerous backfield weapon in the conference.

The defense was susceptible to the run last year but should be much tighter this time around as head coach Art Briles and defensive coordinator Allen Widdell have their best front seven since joining forces at Houston. The opening game in Oregon will be a good test for the Cougars 3-4 attack. After that, Houstons trio of games between Oct. 20 and Nov. 4 will decide the West. Two of them are on the road but the Cougars should still have C-USAs best conference record.

Predicted record: 9-3


Tulsa Golden Hurricane

The bad news of losing Steve Kragthorpe to Louisville was somewhat offset when Todd Graham came back to Tulsa to take the vacant head coaching gig. Graham will be joined by former Arkansas offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn and West Virginia tight ends coach Herb Hand to mold the Golden Hurricanes already-intriguing offensive talent into a scoring machine.

Quarterback Paul Smith is savvy and is already comfortable with the new sets while Courtney Tennial is a load to bring down and the top producer in a good backfield. The problems for Tulsas offense are largely up front, where four new starters are on the O-line trying to replace three All-C-USA talents.

Graham is a defense guy who brought some big coaching talent to help him solidify a relatively inexperienced unit. Four of Tulsas top five tacklers are gone, but the Hurricanes unique 3-3-5 attack and the schools defensive talent pipeline will catch opponents off-guard.

Predicted record: 8-4


UTEP Miners

The offense scored 27 points per game in Mike Prices third year as UTEPs head coach, down from 36 in his first. The defense allowed 31 last year, up from 25 in Prices El Paso debut. Folks might expect the nasty trend to continue in 2007 after the offense lost its top weapons and the defense returned only four starters.

On the plus side, the offense will stress a ground attack a year after averaging just 58 rushing yards per game and the Miners have the talent to make it work in their favor. Marcus Thomas leads a corps of runners that can bowl defenders over as well as blow by them. The backs need an improvement form the offensive line and should get it with all five starters returning.

The revamped Miners defense should improve as the season progresses. The secondary will be tested early by Texas Tech and New Mexico States aerial attacks, but the conference schedule could be worse. UTEPs toughest conference games are played at the Sun Bowl.

Predicted record: 5-7


SMU Mustangs

Expectations havent been this high for the Mustangs in a long time. They have back-to-back .500 seasons in C-USA play, return the conferences freshman of the year in quarterback Justin Willis and perhaps its best special teams unit as well. SMU cost itself a bowl appearance with its season-ending loss to Rice last year. A similar disappointment wont suffice in Dallas in 2007.

It will be an uphill battle for the Mustangs to reach six wins and bowl eligibility, however. Blame the schedule. They face Texas Tech and TCU in a pair of in-state non-conference battles and travel to play four of C-USAs toughest teams. Conference home games against UTEP, Rice and UCF arent gimmes either.

SMUs defense lost the plot late last season and lost its three best players in the offseason. The linebackers will have to be dominant for the defense to match last years numbers. Opposing defenses will key on Willis, meaning one of the returning running backs has to take a star turn in 2007.

Predicted record: 5-7


Rice Owls

Everybody gave a hoot about the Owls in 2006 as they rallied from a 1-5 start with six straight conference wins to clinch their first bowl appearance since 1961. Unfortunately the favored Owls were pummeled by the Sun Belts representatives from Troy, possibly a sign of things to come in 2007.

Of Rices season-ending wins, only one was by more than six points. The positive momentum built up under then-coach Todd Graham will have departed with the bowl game loss and Grahams move to Tulsa. David Bailiff is Rices third head coach in as many seasons and he'll be joined on the sidelines by new offensive and defensive coordinators.

On the plus side, Chase Clement will still be throwing touchdowns and future NFLer Jarrett Dillard will be reeling them in. Rice scored 27 points per game in 2006 and could match that total this year. The task will be to hold opponents to under 40 points per game with many new faces in a new 4-2-5 defensive alignment.

Predicted record: 3-9


Tulane Green Wave

Tulanes poor 2005 showing was entirely excusable, given the teams inability to play in its home stadium and the turmoil in New Orleans for the months following Hurricane Katrina. The Green Waves poor form continued into 2006, however, and looks to do the same through 2007.

A new quarterback will have to emerge to divert opposing defenses from stacking the line to stop Tulanes talented runners, led by Matt Forte. The defense has a lot of returning starters, but no star power.

The Wave host a pair of SEC schools in September, including conference favorite LSU. With Houston also coming to town in the month, Tulane should be grateful for SE Louisianas visit on Sept. 22 to avoid an oh-fer opening month. As it stands, the Green Wave are rebuilding with an entirely new coaching staff and will be lucky to match last years output of four wins.

Predicted record: 3-9


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Teil 2/2


Mid-American Conference (MAC) - East


When football fans dream in the summer about the upcoming college football season, not many of them are thinking about the Mid-American Conference. Well end up watching a ton of MAC games down the stretch, however, thanks to an ingenious late-season schedule filled with Wednesday night and Friday night games.

Not many of those games will feature Temple, the newest addition to the MAC, but they will feature the handful of contenders in a wide-open East Division. Ohio easily paced the field in 2006 with its 7-1 conference record but the rest of the division will play catch-up in 2007.


Bowling Green Falcons

BG was a MAC powerhouse when Gregg Brandon first stepped into the head coach role from the offensive coordinator position, going 20-6 straight up (SU) and 13-9-1 against the spread (ATS) in 2003 and 2004. Things have since fallen off, as seen in the schools 10-13 SU and 6-17 ATS record in the last two seasons.

Bowling Green should get back to winning ways this season behind its wide-open offense and multi-faceted athletes at the skill positions. Quarterback Anthony Turner can run as well as pass, receiver Freddie Barnes was the teams third-leading rusher in 2006 and can step in at quarterback and the Falcons boast an already solid group of runners with JUCO transfer Eric Ransom.

The Falcons allowed 28.3 points per game in 2006 despite reducing opponents running and passing by 30 yards each per game. Eight starters return to the defense, including the entire secondary, and Bowling Greens scoring numbers should improve as a result. The Falcons open the season by visiting a pair of Big Ten opponents with brand new quarterbacks, so the upset potential is there.

Predicted record: 8-4


Miami Redhawks

The Redhawks were a goldmine from 2001 through 2005 behind quarterbacks Ben Roethslisberger and Josh Betts, going 42-20 SU and 36-25 ATS over that five-year span. Last year wasnt as great for Miami backers, but it was no fault of quarterback Mike Kokal, who posted good numbers on a 2-10 SU team.

Kokal was victimized by an offensive line that allowed 49 sacks last year, but that line should actually be a team strength in 2007 thanks in part to a pair of starters returning from injuries. Theyll be blocking for another player returning from injury, former 1,000-yard runner Brandon Murphy. If Dustin Woods develops even further as a deep threat, the Redhawks offense could jump by as many as 10 points per game.

The defense is experienced and should also improve from last years numbers, but will be tested early by the MACs best quarterback and four BCS-conference opponents, all of whom the Redhawks face in the month of September.

Predicted record: 7-5


Ohio Bobcats

The Bobcats rebounded from five straight losing seasons to win the MAC East by two games in 2006. The pats on the back were quickly halted by consecutive lopsided losses in the MAC Championship game and the GMAC Bowl. That only 11 starters return is another reason for tempered optimism in Athens, Ohio.

Running back Kalvin McRae is one of the conferences biggest returning stars but wont see many familiar faces in green and white once the season starts. Ohio has new starters at quarterback, fullback, center, left tackle, one of the wideout spots and both tight end slots. The defense improved by 12.4 points per game allowed in 2006, but lost all its starting linebackers for 2007.

Frank Solich is as big as names get among MAC head coaches following his tenure at Nebraska, and he did a great job in his second season at Ohio. He has to overcome big losses at key positions, but has the schedule to be bowl-eligible in 2007 for the second straight season.

Predicted record: 6-6


Kent State Golden Flashes

Kent State improved to 5-3 in MAC play one year after going 0-8. The Golden Flashes were 4-4 ATS in conference play but could have been 7-1 ATS if their kicking game hadnt been so bad. Going 2-for-10 on field goal attempts is abysmal, but the dearth of attempts says the coaches had no faith in the kickers and frequently ran plays on fourth down in the red zone.

In any case, the Flashes have a lot of talent returning this fall, led by mobile quarterback Julian Edelman and tiny running back Eugene Jarvis. Behind its experienced offensive line, Kent State should once again be able to run the football in 2007.

The passing game will be problematic, both on offense and defense, with the Flashes losing their only deep threat as well as a pair of all-conference performers in the secondary. The defensive line should get plenty of pressure on opposing MAC quarterbacks and theres depth at linebacker. Kent States schedule ends nicely but the teams record could be in tatters by the time November hits.


Predicted record: 4-8


Akron Zips

The Zips were a moneymaker in MAC play in head coach J.D. Brookharts first two seasons, going 12-5 SU and 13-10 ATS in conference play. 2006 was a different story despite continued strong play from the quarterback position, as Akron dipped to 3-5 SU and 1-7 ATS against MAC opponents. Things might not get better right away in Akron with only four games scheduled for the Rubber Bowl.

The offense is a good news/bad news proposition. The teams starting running back, receivers and tight ends return, but the Zips dont know whos starting at quarterback and whoever wins the job will line up behind an inexperienced O-line. Similarly, the defense has its good and bad points: the good is almost entirely in the back of the Zips 3-3-5 defense, while the D-line struggles to pressure opposing quarterbacks.

The schedule doesnt look great for a rebound year. Winning hinges on the quarterback position in Akron and its difficult to project success when the position is in the hands of unknowns.

Predicted record: 3-9


Temple Owls

Thanks to its Independent status, Temple scheduled lots of tough games over the past two seasons. It showed in the Owls 1-22 SU record, but they covered the spread in almost half their games thanks to regularly getting 30-plus points from oddsmakers.

The Owls losing streak was snapped last year with their win over Bowling Green, a good sign for a school entering its first season of MAC play. Temple played a host of MAC teams last season, in fact, and was competitive in more than half of them. With the bulk of its offensive starters back and reduced travel, theres finally some optimism surrounding Temples football team in 2007.

Temple was outscored 45.3-9.7 in 2005 and 41.3-10.9 in 2006. Both lopsided margins, true, but the improvement on both sides of the ball means something. The Owls single-game high on offense was 17 points in 2005, but they had three straight 20-plus point games last year, all against MAC teams. They arent world beaters, but at least the Owls wont be blown out in conference play.

Predicted record: 3-9


Buffalo Bulls

On the plus side, Buffalo nearly doubled its scoring last year from 2005, returns 18 starters and has a head coach in Turner Gill whose enthusiasm wasnt dampened by a 2-10 opening season on the Bulls sideline.

On the minus side, the Bulls are still viewed as a prime contender to fill the role of "Division 1-As weakest football team" Theres not a lot of depth behind all those returning starters and besides, its not like the guys coming back to play another season at UB Stadium put up huge numbers last year.

Thanks to its schedule, Buffalo could be the underdog in all 12 scheduled games this year, which isnt a bad thing. The Bulls are 13-9 ATS as an underdog the last two seasons and were 5-2 ATS as an underdog on the road last season. Something to keep in mind as they visit Rutgers and Penn State in Weeks 1 and 3 respectively, where theyre certain to face 30-plus point spreads.

Predicted record: 1-11


Mid-American Conference (MAC) - West


Thanks to this conference's brilliant marketing idea to play games on Friday nights, you'll probably see more MAC games than you might normally see on TV. And if people are watching, then they're probably betting.

Last year, teams like Western Michigan and Central Michigan came up as big winners at the sportsbook and there will probably be a few surprise winners this year as well. The Midwest might not be the most exciting part of the country, but this conference always provides some action.


Western Michigan Broncos

There were a lot of positives in Kalamazoo last year. They made a bowl game for the first time in nearly two decades, they had strong non-conference games with a win over Virginia and close games against Florida State and Cincinnati - and they made bettors happy with a solid 4-1 against-the-spread (ATS) record against teams from outside the MAC. That momentum should carry them to another successful year in 2007.

The Broncos will be looking for a starting quarterback this summer, but this is a team built on defense. They allowed fewer than 20 points per game last year, and most of their big players are back. Super linebacker Dustin Dulco will be all over the field again and the Broncos secondary that grabbed 27 interceptions last season are also all back to improve on that mark. Watch for this team to potentially go undefeated in the MAC and cover a lot of spreads this season.

Predicted record: 9-3


Central Michigan Chippewas

The MAC has become known as a quarterback factory in recent years, pumping out products like Roethlisberger, Pennington, Leftwich and Charlie Frye. You cant win in this league without a super quarterback and the Chippewas found theirs last year when freshman Dan LeFevour took over early in the season. His 3,000 passing yards and 26 touchdowns were impressive, but for a frosh to get thrown into the fire and throw only 10 interceptions - that seems like a sign of good things to come.

There are weapons at almost every other skill position on offense, so the pressure is on the defense. The 'D' will have to hold strong if this team has a chance of coming anywhere near the 11-2 ATS mark they set last year. The defense was weak against the pass last year, but strong up front. This year it could be the opposite. The secondary will be more experienced, but theyll be weaker up front without DE Dan Bazuin, who was drafted by the Chicago Bears. With a weakened pass rush, the Chips could be more susceptible against passing teams, which could lead to a few blown pointspreads.

Predicted Record: 9-3


Toledo Rockets

Things havent been the same in Toledo since Bruce Gradkowski collected his degree and headed to the NFL. Last year was the Rockets first year without the record-setting quarterback and it wasnt pretty. After three winning season with Gradkowski behind center, Toledo suffered through a 5-7 season last year. The trouble was largely because of a stagnant offense that can be blamed mainly on poor quarterback play.

Right now its anyones guess who will be at quarterback when the Rockets kick off their season against Purdue on Sept. 1. There are three potential candidates who will battle it out through training camp. Whoever it is, hell have the benefit of a good running game behind all conference tailback Jalen Parmele and a rock solid O-line. The defense is good enough to hold its own, but unless one of the QBs in camp turns into another Gradkowski, the Rockets cant expect much better results than the 5-6 ATS record they put up last season, but a favorable schedule should help their straight-up record.

Predicted record: 7-5


Ball State Cardinals

Shhhhh. Nobody is talking about Ball State as we head into the upcoming season, but most people dont know that despite losing seven games they were absolutely golden at the sportsbook, good for an 8-3 record against the spread. We think there might be more pointspread magic this fall.

The Cardinals made all that cash last year largely on the merit of an offense that was blessed with some great speed at running back and receiver and the arrival of a prodigy at quarterback in the form of Nate Davis. That offense will be better this year - and so will the defense. The worst defense in the MAC West couldnt get much worse, but part of last years struggles was created by the introduction of the 3-4 set. Now they have a year of experience with the system and a lot of returning talent to shore up the unit. Keep an eye on this team after they get some tough games against Miami and Nebraska out of the way early on.

Predicted Record: 6-6


Northern Illinois Huskies

If NIU went 7-4 ATS with the nations leading rusher in their backfield, what are they going to do without him? Garrett Wolfe isnt around to carry the offense on his back anymore so that job will have to be picked up by someone else. The problem is, there isnt anyone on the roster that seems capable.

Sophomore Dan Nicholson will be the starting quarterback, but a spotty offensive line wont do him any favors as he tries to get comfortable in the pocket. Expect coach Joe Novak to add some wrinkles to the offense, but no amount of scheming will make up for the 2,147 yards that went with Wolfe to the NFL.

Predicted record: 4-8


Eastern Michigan Eagles

Last year was bad. What else can you say about a 1-11 season? You could point out that it wasnt so bad in the eyes of bettors and the Eagles managed to cover the spread in half their games, which puts a bit of a positive spin on things.

But in truth, their straight-up record tells the real story. This is a team without a true starting quarterback, no game-breaking speed and a defense that probably couldnt stop Joe Paterno from putting together a 100-yard game against them. None of these problems looks like it will get better this year and their only hope is that they catch a few teams looking past them if they hope to make any cash for backers this year.

Predicted record: 2-10


Mountain West


The Mountain West gives bettors one dominant team per season that wins both on the field and at the pay window. Utah in 2004, TCU in 2005 and BYU last year each went undefeated in conference play and combined to go 34-3 straight up (SU) and 28-7-2 against the spread (ATS) in those seasons.

The same three schools are the frontrunners to win again in 2007. The key for bettors is picking the winner from the outset so they can sit back and watch the profits pile up the rest of the season.


TCU Horned Frogs

It begins with the ends in Fort Worth, as in defensive ends Tommy Blake and Chase Ortiz. They highlight a defensive unit that held nine opponents to 14 or fewer points last season and returns nine starters to continue the dominance.

The offense has more holes to fill, but head coach Gary Patterson and offensive coordinator Mike Schultz have the experience, guile and athletes to score 30 points per game again this year. Marcus Jackson looks like hell take over at quarterback, another player capable of posting nice two-way numbers in a run-dominated offense.

TCU has very solid special teams to complement its stacked defense and dangerous ´O, a mix that should result in another Mountain West title. The toughest conference road test is the Nov. 8 visit to BYU. Whether the Frogs can imitate Boise State from last year and make a splash in the BCS bowl scene might hinge on their Sept. 8 trip to Austin to play the Longhorns.

Predicted record: 11-1


BYU Cougars

Brigham Young was awesome down the stretch last year, sweeping through the entire conference schedule without a loss and capping the season by embarrassing Oregon 38-8 in the Las Vegas Bowl. The Cougars lost a ton of talent coming in to 2007, however, especially at the skill positions.

Arizona State transfer Max Hall takes over at quarterback behind one of the best offensive lines in the country, which should help him in his first season running the BYU offense. Hall doesnt have game experience but has been a star in the making for quite a while and is older than your average first-year starter. The defense lost a few starters too, but BYU recruits players like no other MWC school so they should continue where they left off last year.

The Cougars have a favorable conference schedule, getting both TCU and Utah at home. Both games will be tough (as always), just as tough as BYUs September trips to UCLA and Tulsa.

Predicted record: 9-3


Utah Utes

The Utes were a bettors dream team in 2003 and 2004 under Urban Meyer, going 22-2 SU and 20-4 ATS over that two-year span. Things have gone a little downhill under Kyle Whittingham, whose teams have gone 15-10 SU and 11-12-1 ATS since his arrival in Salt Lake City in 2005.

Utahs offense should be fine this year, so long as quarterback Brian Johnson can return to his 2005 form after sitting out last season recovering from a torn ACL. The O-line is big and experienced, the receiving corps is stacked and the backfield has some intriguing talent.

The defense lost a lot more than did the offensive unit and itll be tested right away when Utah opens the season at Oregon State on Aug. 30. The Utes host UCLA two weeks after that and then travel to Louisville on Oct. 5. The schedule only gets worse with visits to top conference rivals TCU and BYU.

Predicted record: 7-5


New Mexico Lobos

The Lobos have been operating at a level barely below the MWCs top three schools for a long time, going 27-17 SU and 27-16-1 ATS in conference games from 2001-06. The fact that the Lobos have lost in every bowl appearance under head coach Rocky Long helps keep them under the radar.

Starters return at almost every skill position on offense, but last years scoring average of 21.8 points per game didnt knock anyones socks off. The defense has 10 starters back in the fold, but the fact that the Lobos allowed 472 passing yards to New Mexico State and 464 to BYU shows that theres work to be done in the secondary.

New Mexico will likely return to a bowl game in 2007 but its road schedule will keep conference title dreams at bay.

Predicted record: 7-5


Wyoming Cowboys

The Cowboys posted a 5-3 SU record in MWC play in 2006 to finish tied for third in the conference and outgained all four of its non-conference opponents. They managed to miss the postseason again last year in spite of those encouraging numbers, leaving head coach Joe Glenn with only one bowl appearance in four seasons in Laramie.

Wyomings big-name offensive players return but it wont mean much if an inexperienced line doesnt gel quickly. The D-line is also lacking in game-breaking players and the Cowboys could be overreliant on their linebackers in 2007. Wyoming might be the hardest MWC school to pin down expectations-wise, capable of fantastic and horrible performances in consecutive weeks.

Predicted record: 6-6


Colorado State Rams

Colorado States offense tumbled in 2006, averaging 16.8 points and 77 rushing yards per game one year after scoring 26.8 and rushing for 122 yards per contest. The return of star runner Kyle Bell from a knee injury is causing a lot of optimism in Fort Collins, especially with starters returning to every other skill position for the Rams.

Last seasons horrible final two months will be hard to erase from the teams psyche, though. The Rams opened the season 4-1 SU before losing their final seven games. The fact that they were shut out in Wyoming and held to six points at San Diego State suggests that the Rams need more than Bells return to the backfield to fully rebound in 2007.

Predicted record: 5-7


San Diego State Aztecs

Its a tale of two units at San Diego State this year, as the offense has reason for optimism but the defense could allow some cringe-inducing yardage and point totals. Head coach Chuck Long has a good offensive pedigree as both a player and a coach and his Aztecs this year have the size, skill and depth to double last years measly average of 14.2 points per game.

Unfortunately the defense lost nine of its top dozen tacklers after allowing 27.1 points per game for the second straight year. The Aztecs face consecutive upper-tier Pac-10 quarterbacks to open the season, a huge test for a secondary that lost all four of its starters from 2006.

Predicted record: 3-9


Air Force Falcons

The good news for the Falcons in 2006 was that their defenders allowed 6.5 fewer points per game than they did in 2005. The bad news was that their offensive output decreased by 6.8 points. The net result was a second consecutive four-win season in Colorado Springs.

Air Forces 1-point loss to Tennessee to open last season is even more impressive in hindsight than it was at the time. This years opener comes against a much easier opponent in South Carolina State. Thats a good thing considering the learning curve under new head coach Troy Calhoun. Shaun Carney is a presence at quarterback and could lead the Falcons to an upset or two.

Predicted record: 3-9


UNLV Rebels

UNLVs offense put up nice numbers against its weaker opponents last year but was essentially shut down by most schools with the least bit of football pedigree. How the Rebels fare this year depends on the ability of quarterback Rocky Hinds & Co. to put more consistent pop in the shotgun offense from which UNLV operates.

The defense faces near-impossible tests early in the season with both Wisconsin and Hawaii visiting Las Vegas in September. All of the starting linebackers are back for UNLV, including potential NFLer Beau Bell, but the secondary let opposing quarterbacks complete 67 percent of their passes last year and lost star corner Eric Wright to the pro ranks.

Predicted record: 2-10


Pacific Ten Conference


The Pac-10 has mighty USC in its fold, but many of its other schools have trouble winning respect from the non-West Coast set.

Pac-10 teams, however, were good bets in 2006. The six conference schools that ended up in bowl games were 13-8 against the spread (ATS) when playing non-conference opponents, 11-4 ATS during the regular season. Because they happened so early, UCLAs 21-point win over Utah, Arizona States 29-point win over Nevada, and Arizonas win over BYU were largely forgotten but have significance in hindsight.

Thats worth noting before the 2007 season kicks off with eight Pac-10 teams playing non-conference foes in Week 1.


USC Trojans

Southern Cal is everyones preseason No. 1 and understandably so. But Trojans backers should be concerned that the hype will send USC spreads back into the stratosphere. The school was also a preseason No. 1 in 2004 and 2005 and only went 14-12 ATS in those years thanks to being favored by at least three touchdowns 17 times in 26 games.

Why so much confidence in L.A.? Try the return of 10 starters to the best defense in the country, a Heisman Trophy favorite returning at quarterback, an absolute smorgasbord of talent fighting for the few available jobs and a coaching staff that can effectively run the nations top football factory.

USC lost its pair of 1,000-yard receivers, but thats the closest you can come to poking holes in the Trojans 2007 roster. If you think John David Booty will lack targets this year, you dont understand head coach Pete Carrolls recruiting pipeline. The Trojans are talented enough to go undefeated in any conference in the country. The concern for bettors, as noted above, is the massive spreads theyll face weekly.

Predicted record: 12-0


UCLA Bruins

The Bruins were 4-5 heading into the 2006 homestretch but salvaged the season with three straight wins as an underdog, including a 13-9 stunner over USC. The rally lifted their ATS record to 8-4 before the Bruins allowed a season-high 44 points to Florida State in an Emerald Bowl loss.

Optimism abounds for 2007, however, because 20 starters return from 2006. The defense became a team strength last season, with the Bruins holding four bowl-bound teams to 12 points or fewer. End Bruce Davis highlights an outstanding pass rush that racked up 30 quarterback sacks in just nine Pac-10 games.

UCLAs offense took a step back in 2006, but the units experience alone should ensure a jump from last years average of 23 points per game. Theres uncertainty over who should start at quarterback, but whoever takes the bulk of snaps should be well-protected. New offensive coordinator Jay Norvell promises a trickier offense in L.A. this year, so keep an eye on the opener at Stanford for progress.

Predicted record: 9-3


California Golden Bears

Cal recovered after its opening-week loss at Tennessee last year by rattling off six straight wins and outscoring its opponents 240-94. The Bears went 5-0 ATS during the stretch but 0-6 ATS the rest of the regular season, before trouncing Texas A&M in the Holiday Bowl to finish off a Jekyll-and-Hyde campaign.

The offensive unit looks strong again with DeSean Jackson playing the role of Americas most dangerous weapon, quarterback Nate Longshore returning and Justin Forsett ready to be a 1,000-yard man now that Marshawn Lynch is in the NFL. The Bears have averaged at least 32.6 points per game every year during head coach Jeff Tedfords tenure and shouldnt have a problem matching that number this year.

The problems for Cal in 2007 are on the defensive front seven and with the schedule. The Bears lost a lot of experienced defenders, especially on the line. They are also challenged by the fact that they have to visit all three schools viewed as their main competitors for second place in the Pac-10.

Predicted record: 9-3


Oregon Ducks

Oregon was 7-2 straight up (SU) before a trio of duds to close the regular season sent the Ducks waddling toward the not-so-prestigious Las Vegas Bowl, where they were promptly handed a 30-point loss by BYU.

Theres hope in Eugene for 2007, though. Dennis Dixon is the unquestioned starter at quarterback, has a potentially great runner behind him in Jonathan Stewart and has some freakish targets on the outside, led by Jaison Williams who weighs 240 and has sprinters speed. The O-line is above average by conference standards. The Ducks 2006 defensive numbers were skewed by the late collapse, when they allowed at least 30 points in each of the final four games. Theres too much experience for a repeat performance.

The Ducks posted a winning ATS record in the Pac-10 for the fourth straight year in 2006 and have a friendlier conference schedule this time around. If Dixon develops as hoped, the Ducks will be a bettors boon for a fifth straight season.

Predicted record: 8-4


Oregon State Beavers

OSU was shut out of the national rankings through most of 2006 despite beating USC and finishing third in the Pac-10 standings at 6-3 SU. It took season-ending wins over non-conference foes Hawaii and Missouri to rise to No. 21 following the Beavers 10-win campaign.

Whether Oregon State can reach 10 wins again largely rests on the left arm of new quarterback Sean Canfield. He has one of the conferences best offensive lines in front of him and top-notch talent at the skill positions to support him, led by running back Yvenson Bernard and receiver Sammie Stroughter.

The defense has a host of returning starters and the front seven especially is filled with impact players. The Beavers have a top placekicker in Alexis Serna and Stroughter is almost as dangerous as Cals DeSean Jackson on returns. The black cloud over Cornvallis is the schedule, one that features only one non-conference "gimme" and far more road tests in conference play compared to 2006.

Predicted record: 7-5


Arizona State Sun Devils

The Sun Devils appeared in the national rankings in each of the previous five seasons under Dirk Koetter but never fared well against its ranked opponents during those years: ASU was 2-15 SU and 4-13 ATS against ranked teams from 2002 through 2006.

Now Dennis Erickson runs the show in Tempe and there are expectations that he and his coaching pedigree will lead the Sun Devils to big things. And what a schedule Erickson has to start out! The Sun Devils could be 8-0 SU before the challenging part of the conference schedule starts.

Arizona State returns a lot of talent to its offense, including quarterback Rudy Carpenter and running back Ryan Torain, both of whom are expected to flourish under new offensive coordinator Rich Olsens sped-up attack. The defense is problematic, losing half of its top 10 tacklers from last year, but the soft schedule at the beginning of the season could be a confidence-building experience for the unit.

Predicted record: 7-5


Arizona Wildcats

On the plus side, Arizona became bowl-eligible last year for the first time in almost a decade, thanks to a late-season rally that included three SU wins over Pac-10 opponents when the Wildcats had been double-digit underdogs. On the minus side, they have a tough schedule with four challenging road games within the seasons first seven weeks.

Arizona brought in Sonny Dykes to put some charge in an often lifeless offense. The Wildcats averaged only 169 passing yards per game last season whereas Texas Tech averaged 369 per game under Dykes in 2006. It remains to be seen if Arizona has the offensive personnel to run the spread with similar effectiveness, though ´Zona fans remain high on quarterback Willie Tuitama.

The defense returns a ton of experience, though the talented secondary might be frustrated by the front sevens lack of pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Arizona failed to record a sack in six of its nine conference games last year.

Predicted record: 6-6


Washington State Cougars

The Cougars were 6-3 SU and ATS going into the homestretch last year before ruining their chances at a bowl appearance with three straight conference losses as a favorite. Wazzu might be hard-pressed to reach .500 again thanks to an inexperienced secondary and questions about the Cougars ability to run the ball.

Quarterback Alex Brink was second-team All Pac-10 last year, which is saying something in such a pass-heavy conference. He has a savvy line in front of him, but lost some prime targets going into the season.

Washington State hasnt had a winning record when favored under Bill Doba in his four seasons as head coach. The Cougars are a combined 9-17 ATS as a favorite under Doba, who regains control of the defense this year in Pullman.

Predicted record: 5-7


Washington Huskies

Its been said many times but it bears repeating: Washingtons 2007 schedule shows a masochistic side shared by no other school in the nation. If the Huskies dont beat Syracuse in the Carrier Dome in the season opener, UW alumni could return for homecoming to watch an 0-7 team face Arizona.

Looking on the positive side, at least Washington will be an underdog plenty of times this year, giving the Huskies a shot for a second-straight winning season ATS (after posting a losing ATS record in every other season this decade, going 25-41-2 ATS overall from 2000-2005).

Quarterback Jake Locker has a lot of hype to meet and a lot of tough opponents to keep him from doing so. There are too many key bodies to replace on defense and special teams, and as much as head coach Tyrone Willingham is doing right in Seattle, it wont show in this years record.

Predicted record: 3-10


Stanford Cardinal

Stanford took a serious step backwards in 2006, losing eight of its 12 games by three touchdowns or more and ending up as a 3-9 ATS money pit for backers. All this happened despite going 19-12-1 ATS in the previous three seasons. The school hired ex-NFL quarterback Jim Harbaugh to turn things around this year, though its a concern that he lacks Division 1A coaching experience.

The offense should be a lot better in 2007 (it cant get much worse, after scoring just 10.6 points per game in 2006). Quarterback T.C. Ostrander has plenty of experience and a talented group of receivers to help him out. The defense is less a cause of optimism, losing three of its top four tacklers and lacking the blue-chip talent to keep up with Pac-10 talent.

The Cardinal could be a decent ATS bet again this year, but theres no chance of a postseason appearance.

Predicted record: 1-11


Southeastern Conference - East


The national champion Gators brought the most glory to the SEC East, but they weren't the only school to make a dent in the postseason scene last year. Four others from the division played a bowl game last winter and the East went a combined 4-1 straight up (SU) and against the spread (ATS).

Bettors can expect more of the same this year as far as bowl-bound schools are concerned, but can the Gators count on another national championship game appearance? Theyll be hard-pressed to make the conference championship game with this kind of competition.


Florida Gators

Floridas dominance in the BCS Championship game nailed home the point that the SEC is now the top conference in the country. Thats a source of pride for whoever survives the conference, but that top-to-bottom competitiveness is hell through November. Thats troublesome for the Gators in 2007, considering the talent they lost from last years championship squad.

Gainesville residents would have us believe that the Gators recruit well enough that they can send out a defense as dangerous as last years, but with nine new starters, patrons at the Swamp are bound to see more slipped tackles and blown coverages in September than they did in all of 2006.

The big loss on offense was quarterback Chris Leak. Last years fill-in Tim Tebow was the nations highest-profile backup and wont catch anyone off guard and it remains to be seen how often hell find his rich array of targets. For all the negativity, however, the Gators have great talent taught to do the little things on both sides of the ball and head coach Urban Meyer is blessed with an easier schedule than last year.

Predicted record: 10-2


Georgia Bulldogs

It was a tale of three seasons in Athens last year. The Dawg´D was the talk of the land as Georgia won its first five games, then the focus shifted to the anemic offense as the Bulldogs lost four of its subsequent five games. Then-freshman quarterback Matthew Stafford gave hope for 2007, however, when he led Georgia to a trio of season-ending wins against some of the toughest defenses in the nation.

The optimism should be tempered a little by an early schedule that has the Dawgs visiting ´Bama and the Vols (as well as hosting South Carolina and Oklahoma State) through Octobers first weekend.

Stafford has the arm to be a star and it could happen as soon as this season if his receivers hang onto the ball better than they did last season. The O-line has some young starters but it should be a team strength while opening holes for a variety of backs. That all adds up to improved offensive production, but the sheer volume of new starters on defense should keep Georgia away from a 10-win regular season again.

Predicted record: 9-3


South Carolina Gamecocks

Steve Spurrier went 7-5 SU and 6-6 ATS in his first year in Columbia, then 8-5 SU and 9-3 ATS record in his second. South Carolinas placement in the mighty East lets Spurriers boys slip under the radar as much as you can in the SEC, meaning the Gamecocks will likely have some early-season value and could improve even further this year.

The Cocks return 15 of their leading 16 tacklers from 2006, which bodes well for early visits to Georgia and LSU when theyll get plenty of points from oddsmakers. Whether the offense can score enough to steal a SU win or two is the question of the season. Quarterback Blake Mitchell improved through 2006, but isnt a game-breaker. The backs are strong as a group, but that doesnt mean much if the line doesnt improve.

South Carolina played five road games last year, four SEC games and a visit to Clemson. The Gamecocks went 4-1 SU, 5-0 ATS and came within a blocked field goal at the Swamp of making it a perfect record. Spurriers team shows up for big games, a good sign in this conference.

Predicted record: 8-4


Tennessee Volunteers

The Vols start the season off on a rotten note, visiting Cal on Sept. 1 to face a Bears team looking for revenge after last years thumping on Rocky Top, then dropping by the Swamp two weeks later to visit the defending champs. Things are reasonably manageable after that, with home games against Georgia and South Carolina and a trip to Tuscaloosa the biggest problems.

Tennessee has some holes to fill if the school wants to win double-digit games and have a shot at the conference title. The passing game, its major offensive strength last season, will rely on an entirely new corps of targets, and quarterback Erik Ainge no longer has the SECs top left tackle protecting him. The losses on defense are also a concern, especially at tackle and in the secondary.

The Volunteers were 8-4 ATS in the regular season last year, obscuring the fact that they maintained their miserable ways as a home favorite. They were 1-3 ATS when laying points at Neyland Stadium in 2006, dropping them to 3-14 ATS since 2004 and 10-26 ATS since 2001 as a home favorite.

Predicted record: 7-5


Kentucky Wildcats

The Rich Brooks era finally delivered in Lexington last year as the Wildcats not only played .500 football in the countrys toughest conference, but upset Clemson in the Music City Bowl. Kentucky flaunted an offense that (barely) managed to score more points than its porous defense regularly conceded.

Quarterback Andre Woodson returns with all his top targets and top runners, so whats not to love about the Cats in 07 with eight home games on their schedule? Quite a bit, actually. Last years schedule had Kentucky visiting most of its toughest rivals, resulting in four games where the Wildcats were +20 or more. This time theyre getting most of the same teams at home, meaning unfriendly lines for bettors.

The defense was too reliant on turnovers last year and managed to get away with its risky approach. But Kentucky allowed its opponents over 450 yards of offense per game, an abominable number the team cant get away with again. The Wildcats success in 2006 also makes them a target in 2007, whereas theyd slipped under the SEC radar in previous seasons.

Predicted record: 6-6


Vanderbilt Commodores

It was a step back for the Commodores in 2006, who went 1-7 SU and 4-4 ATS in conference play after going 3-5 SU and 5-3 ATS in the SEC the year before. Last year still produced a memorable win, however, as they beat Georgia as 14-point road underdogs for the schools first win over a ranked team in their opponent's home stadium.

Vandy has only four road games this season, but all four are against tough SEC opponents, so the upset opportunities are there. The fact that 18 starters (10 on offense) return for 2007 has optimists in Nashville thinking that a .500 season and the schools first bowl appearance since 1982 are not only possible, but likely.

Those optimists should lower their expectations. Returning a huge volume of starters is nice, but recruiting classes that annually rank at or near the bottom of the SEC means Vanderbilts starters are nowhere near the talent level of its conference rivals. Receiver Earl Bennett is a star and quarterback Chris Nickson is exciting, but the Dores have too many opponents with national title hopes to count on a bowl game.

Predicted record: 5-7


Southeastern Conference - West


The 2006 SEC West featured three "haves", a pair of "have-nots" and Alabama, who should always be in the first group but played more like the second.

To the surprise of absolutely no one, the Crimson Tide hired the biggest and most expensive head coach they could find in an effort to keep up with the Jones (or in this case, the Tigers). And seeing as Nick Saban is hardly starting from scratch in Tuscaloosa, its bound to be a tighter race in the West in 2007.


LSU Tigers

LSU officially finished third in the West last season, but by the time they beat division champs Arkansas last November, they were widely viewed as the best in the West if not the entire SEC. This year the Tigers schedule is far friendlier, so much so that they can improve on last seasons 11-2 record despite the loss of some all-world talent to the NFL.

The defense will be the strength of the Bayou Bengals in 2007, bad news for teams visiting Baton Rouge. Five of the Tigers six toughest games are at home this season and the combination of defensive talent and crowd noise will make it impossible for opposing offenses to function as planned. The line might be the nations best and theres speed and depth galore elsewhere on ´D.

Les Miles offense lost its quarterback and top two receivers, but a handful of bruising runners remain as does a very solid offensive line. Matt Flynn has won as LSUs quarterback before and would love to do so again as a senior this year. If he can keep defenses honest, the Tigers could have a spotless record.

Predicted record: 12-0


Alabama Crimson Tide

It wasnt a great year for the Tide in 2006. They had an overall losing record, went 2-6 SU in SEC games and lost to Auburn for the fifth straight season. As such, Nick Sabans assigned tasks are simple: win games, win SEC games in particular, and most specifically, win the Iron Bowl.

His main weapon is quarterback John Parker Wilson and a receiving corps led by 1,000-yard man D.J. Hall. With new offensive coordinator Major Applewhite introducing a lot of innovation to the passing game, Wilson could have the type of season thatll keep Tuscaloosa talking about him for a while. All five starters return to the line, which should help the Tides stable of inexperienced runners.

An improved offense wont mean much, however, if the defense doesnt adjust quickly to the new schemes under the Saban regime. The secondary looks solid, but itll take a couple of games to gauge the front sevens progress. Luckily, Alabamas schedule opens with Western Carolina.

Predicted record: 9-3


Auburn Tigers

No one in the SEC has an easy schedule, but at least one school per season is saddled with an inordinately difficult road slate in conference play. The role will be filled by Auburn in 2007, by virtue of its trips to Florida, Arkansas, LSU and Georgia, schools that combined for a 43-11 record last year.

The Tigers lost a lot of talent and experience coming into this fall, especially on offense. Quarterback Brandon Cox is back, but his leading rusher, receiver and four of the linemen starting in front of him are not. Cox took a beating last season and while he says hes healthy now, how long will that last behind such an inexperienced line?

The defense took a hit as well with some starters graduating, but the depth was there last season to absorb such losses. Head coach Tommy Tuberville knows better than to field a defense that cant dominate. Speed kills on defense and Auburn has speed to burn, meaning those road games listed above could stay closer than oddsmakers project.

Predicted record: 8-4


Arkansas Razorbacks

Arkansas was the surprise West champion last year and returns a running-back combo of Darren McFadden and Felix Jones that combined for almost 3,000 yards on the ground last year. Whats not to like in 2007?

Theres a bad taste in Fayetteville, for starters, since Mitch Mustain and Gus Malzahn left town. Theyre the local high school quarterback / offensive coordinator combination whose spread offense was to set the world on fire, no matter how much sense it made to pound the rock with the running game.

Then there are the key starters to replace, especially on defense and on the left side of the offensive line. That latter concern should be a worry for quarterback Casey Dick, who had enough problems passing behind last years top-notch protectors. Toward the end of last season, McFadden looked like the best passer on the Razorbacks roster, not a good thing in the defensively-minded SEC.

Predicted record: 7-5


Mississippi State Bulldogs

Sylvester Croom came to Starkville before the 2004 season and hasnt topped three wins since. Whether the Bulldogs can win four or more in 2007 depends on whether an experienced offensive unit can continue to improve.

Mississippi State was only 1-7 straight up in SEC play last year, but went 4-3-1 against the spread thanks to three of the schools losses being by a field goal. Bulldogs backers look at the nine returning starters on offense and think that things have to get better this year. They might be right. The line is solid, quarterback Michael Henig has a gun as well as a deep threat in Tony Burks, and running back Anthony Dixon is a load.

The Bulldogs have a lot of holes to fill on defense, especially on the line. If the ´D doesnt at least match last years 25.8 points per game allowed, then State will have a hard time escaping the three-win rut with an always-challenging SEC schedule on tap.

Predicted record: 4-8


Mississippi Rebels

Folks in Oxford are thinking about a possible bowl season, but the Rebs schedule wont help their cause. All four of their conference home games involve schools expecting to return home with a win, and rightfully so. Missouri is another intimidating visitor this season.

Ole Miss returns a lot of offensive starters but the quarterback picture is muddy, with Brent Schaeffer underachieving last year and Seth Adams a largely unproven senior. Wholl be taking the snaps in November is anyones guess.

The Rebels were a good bet in conference play last year (5-2-1 ATS) largely due to their defense. All-World Patrick Willis is in the NFL now, though, and neither of his fellow starting linebackers from 2006 came back for 2007 either. Ole Miss had only 14 quarterback sacks last year - without run-stuffing Willis behind it this year, the ´D-line has to boost pressure on the opposing QBs.

Predicted record: 4-8


Western Athletic Conference


Boise State was the sweetheart of the BCS rodeo last year, cracking the entry for the elite bowls and acquitting itself marvelously once there. The Broncos upset of Oklahoma in the Fiesta Bowl bodes well for this years WAC champ, should they make it though the 2007 regular season with an unblemished record.

Not only did Boise State do the conference proud, but the WACs overall 3-1 straight-up (SU) and 4-0 against the spread (ATS) bowl records underlined its improvement in recent years.


Hawaii Warriors

No use avoiding the obvious: the Warriors have been widely-touted as 2007s answer to Boise State (including by us) and have a high-octane run-and-shoot offense to thank for the national attention.

Quarterback Colt Brennan returned after his record-breaking 2006 season along with a trio of receivers who caught 36 touchdown passes between them. Brennan passed for 58 majors last year but will have a hard time matching that total in 2007 for two reasons: Hawaii plays one fewer regular season game and loses three All-WAC offensive linemen. Finding the right fit at running back to replace Nate Ilaoa in June Jones complex offense is also a vital key to BCS success.

The defense lost Jerry Glanville as its coordinator and reverts to a 4-3 under new man Greg McMackin. Thats a bit dodgy, considering the Warriors depth at linebacker and the lack thereof on the D-line. Hawaiis ridiculously favorable schedule, however, will have them 9-0 before facing a challenge. Its also an easy enough schedule to let the Warriors improve on their 46.9 point-per-game average from 2006.

Predicted record: 11-1


Boise State Broncos

Now what? The undefeated run capped by the big bowl win and the proposal to the cheerleader was so January. The 2007 regular season is right around the corner and the Broncos lost so many starters from last season theyll hardly be recognizable to casual fans.

Boise State retained star running back Ian Johnson, however, alongside head coach Chris Petersen and his big bag of tricks. Add a top-notch offensive line, the most defensive talent in the WAC and another non-threatening schedule to the mix and the Broncos are guaranteed another double-digit win season. Another undefeated run to a repeat BCS Bowl appearance is possible, if not likely.

The aerial game will feature an entirely new cast of starters, the defensive front seven lost a ton of talent and new men will fill the major special teams roles. Considering the vulnerability Boise State showed in a couple of WAC games last year, the Broncos are bound to drop one before making the season-ending trek to Hawaii.

Predicted record: 10-2


Fresno State Bulldogs

What happened in Fresno last year? The Bulldogs lost their bite, suffering their first losing and non-bowl season in a dogs age under head coach Pat Hill. They also became Americas worst bet in the process, going 2-10 ATS, with one of those covers being a 32-point loss as 33-point underdogs at LSU.

Things might not immediately bounce back to normalcy, with the school losing six of its top seven tacklers from last year and facing a far tougher non-conference schedule than either of the WACs two frontrunners.

On the plus side, things can hardly go worse than they did last year. The plummet on offense (from 38 points per game in 2005 to just 23 last year) was way too drastic. Fresno State has the second-best O-line in the conference and returns quite a bit of experience at the skill positions. And while the defense lost a lot of starters, the Bulldogs recruit defensive talent as well as any WAC school.

Predicted record: 6-6


Nevada Wolf Pack

The Wolf Pack were tough opponents the last two seasons under head coach Chris Ault, especially at home. They were 17-8 SU and 18-7 ATS overall in 2005-06, 10-2 SU and ATS in Reno.

Ault lost a lot of firepower, however, from an offense that topped 30 points per game in each of those seasons. Nick Graziano is the new man behind center in Nevadas unique "Pistol" formation and the unit also lost its thousand-yard back. Luckily theres plenty of depth at running back and potential at wideout. The defense returns a couple of all-conference talents but not last years coordinator.

Nevada fans would like to think a WAC challenge is in the cards, but the Wolf Pack cant match the top two teams in the conference and will face some key opponents on the road.

Predicted record: 6-6


New Mexico State Aggies

Can the Southeast Louisiana combo of head coach Hal Mumme and quarterback Chase Holbrook make the turnaround complete in 2007?

New Mexico State was horrible on the field and at the betting window in Mummes first year, going 0-12 SU, and 2-10 ATS. The Aggies improved to 4-8 SU and 7-3 ATS last year, largely on the strength of Holbrooks 4,619 passing yards and 34 touchdown passes. Now to be a winner on the field and at the window in the same season - thats the trick of it all.

The passing game will be fine, especially with such an experienced O-line protecting Holbrook. To make the next step, however, the Aggies have to run the ball better and stop opposing runners more frequently. New Mexico State has a home-heavy schedule and improved confidence in its favor, but a lack of recruiting ability going against it.

Predicted record: 6-6


San Jose State Spartans

San Jose State pieced together its first winning season since 2000 last year, then celebrated by booking four straight road games to open the 2007 schedule (with the first three at BCS conference schools).

Quarterback Adam Tafralis had an excellent year in 2006, as did 1,000-yard runner Yonus Davis, the top two parts of a deep backfield on offense. The O-line is decent but the receivers are a question mark.

The Spartans allowed 43 points per game in 2004, Dave Baldwins last year as head coach. That number was more than halved by Dick Tomeys second year in charge. The defenses two biggest stars, linebacker Matt Castelo and cornerback Dwight Lowery, are back and the defensive numbers could be nicer than ever if it werent for that nasty schedule.

Predicted record: 5-7


Louisiana Tech Bulldogs

Its a new regime as Derek Dooley takes over the head coaching gig for the Bulldogs. The Dooley name carries sway in the southeast and not solely because of father Vinces years at Georgia. The younger Dooley takes over at Tech after an assistant gig at LSU and has an experienced team upon his arrival.

The skill positions are more than adequately stocked compared to other teams expected to vie for the title of "worst Division 1-A team in America". The O-line is experienced and the defense returns 10 starters too.

The Bulldogs should handle the dregs of the WAC in spite of an entirely new regime. Louisiana Techs problem, however, is another tough slate of non-conference games on the schedule and its WAC home games including the conferences two premiere schools.

Predicted record: 4-8


Idaho Vandals

The Vandals hoped for a return to winning ways under Dennis Erickson, but the legendary coach left after just one season along with those high hopes. Robb Akey takes over as Idahos third head coach in three seasons after serving as Washington States defensive coordinator since 2003.

Akey inherits a defense that returns its top players but is experimenting with new formations under a new coordinator. The offense also has a new coordinator too, but only five starters return to put points on the board.

Idaho won three conference games last year for only the second time since 2000 and has the home games to meet last years "success". It depends on how quickly things come together in Moscow, however, and starting the season against mighty USC likely wont help anyones confidence.

Predicted record: 3-9


Utah State Aggies

The good news in Logan is that nearly everyones back on defense. The bad news is that theyre the same crew who allowed opponents to score 39 points per game in 2006. Even worse news is that the production-challenged offense averaged only 11 points per game. The worst news of all? The ´O lost its backfield playmakers from last year.

The Aggies won only once in 2006, a 13-12 squeaker over Fresno State when theyd been 27-point underdogs. Its difficult to look at their 2007 schedule and peg a likely win, but last years shocker against the Bulldogs underlines how anything can happen on any given Saturday.

Predicted record: 1-11



toronto 01.Sept. 2007

[Quellen: wikipedia.de, covers.com]