Campus Confidential

By Adam Abramson

I've tried to write this about four times, but have been interrupted each and every time, so my apologies if this is a little scatterbrain.

I watched a good bit of the LSU game last night and wasn't THAT impressed. Everyone is pencling in the Tigers to face USC for the title, but they're going to have to do a lot more. Maybe it was knocking off some of the rust, but the first half was not pretty, considering they had like 4 INTs. An unproven offense must step up and control games as much as that fantastic defense.

Moving on...

The fact that it's opening weekend makes up for a rather weak slate of games.

Maybe it's not THAT weak, maybe I'm just looking ahead to Sept. 8.

The game of the weekend is undoubtedly Cal vs. Tennessee. Tales of revenge or domination could be told for ages after this weekend. With a defense that has to be improved, a matured Nate Longshore and an electric DeSean Jackson, Cal is a 6-point favorite. However, I think Tennessee's defense is better than the unit last year that shut down Marshawn Lynch. Vols QB Erik Ainge has a broken pinky on his throwing hand, but reports are he's releasing the ball just fine. I like Tennessee to upset. I know, West Coast hater. But I do think Tennessee is going to surprise some people this season.

But Notre Dame-Georgia Tech is a must-watch as well for several reasons.

1. Life without Brady. Now that Quinn is in Cleveland, the long-standing post left behind has been nothing short of dramatic this summer. Charlie Weis won't tell anyone who is going to start on Saturday. Will it be the vaunted freshman Jimmy Claussen? If so, is he NFL ready or whatever the recruiting gurus penciled him in as? Will Notre Dame test the waters with a two-quarterback system? All important questions.

2. Life without Calvin. The best player in college football last year carried his team to an ACC championship game berth at wide receiver. If only the aforementioned name was his quarterback in college (Brady, not Jimmy), oh what could have been. Johnson could have actually focused on the finer points of his position instead of bailing out Reggie Ball time and time again and Brady could have actually been a Top 10 pick instead of being a No. 22 pick and whining for Top 10 money.

3. The Notre Dame defense. If the Irish made it to a BCS game without a defense, imagine what the results would have been. Safety Tom Zbikowski came back and is a strong beacon of light for that defense that needs more production with uncertainty on offense.

4. Darius Walker and Jeff Smzarjdia. In addition to losing a four-year starter at quarterback, the Irish come back without their leading receiver and rusher.

5. Taylor Bennett. Everyone is saying he can only be better than Ball. If he is and Tashard Choice puts up numbers like he did last season, the GT offense will be just fine without Johnson.

6. Joe Anoai. What will commentators talk about when he's not on the field? Last year he was good for at least two dozen mentions on plays he wasn't involved in last season.
   

If Notre Dame can leave Atlanta with an impressive win, it will be a great tone setter for the season.

Also on the slate is Virginia Tech-East Carolina. The Pirates will be without their starting quarterback, who has been suspended for the game. It was lopsided enough beforehand, so the only real reason to pay attention to this game will be the 20 minutes prior to kickoff. GameDay will be there, ECU is bringing a $100,000 check for the Memorial Fund, the two teams are entering the field together, the athletic director took out an ad in the school paper asking that fans not boo anymore and I'll be there covering it for Newsday. Tech should cover the 27.5, but I wouldn't touch this game - too much emotion, who knows what'll happen.

What I really can't wait to see is Monday night's Florida State-Clemson game. My flight home will allow me to see the first quarter. Then I have to hop on a two-hour train ride that puts me home around 11. I'm not checking the score, but going straight to the TiVo to watch the rest. We will be discussing this on Tuesday. I think we're going to see the same Florida State that beat up UCLA in the bowl game last year.

I'm curious to see the matchup between Florida State's offense against Clemson's defense. The Tigers won't blow your toupee off with their defense, but are strong enough to slow down a pretty good attack. Florida State had its share of offensive woes this year, but brought in Jimbo Fisher and he's been thrown right into the fire. I've talked about it a few times this offseason, but I'll say it again: Florida State will be able to run the ball this year, which will take pressure off the quarterbacks (I guess that's Drew Weatherford right now).

On the flip, Clemson can run the ball with CJ Spiller and James Davis, but you know what you're getting with Mickey Andrews' Tallahassee unit. This is a wash.

Otherwise, I like a lot of road teams to cover this weekend. Here's a look at some of the games I like:

From Blacksburg…adios.

By Adam Abramson

I hate myself.

I talked to Cal receiver/punt return master DeSean Jackson a few hours ago. I'm a big fan. Very candid, confident and we all know about his skill set. Well, you won't know that because I'm a moron. A MORON. I'm not sure why, but the conversation wasn't recorded. Yes, I tested the phone-to-tape recorder setup before the phone interview, TWICE.

This was the first installment of a weekly Q&A I'll be doing with the nation's top players. But, I can't quote Jackson, I can only go off the notes I took. So I'll give you a recap.

Bash me all you want in the comments. I deserve it.

By Adam Abramson

The Doak Walker Award watch list was released with a GLARING omission: Tashard Choice.

The Georgia Tech back had 1,457 yards and a dozen touchdowns last season. Choice was one of the 10 best backs in the country in 2006 and he didn't make the list for 2007? Joke.

It's even a bigger joke when Thomas Brown makes the list. The Georgia product has put together 1,867 yards...over the last three seasons.

I want someone to step up and tell me why Choice isn't on the list.

2007 Doak Walker Award Watch List

Tarrion Adams (Jr.), Tulsa
Reggie Arnold (So.), Arkansas State
Toney Baker (Jr.), NC State
Lance Ball (Sr.), Maryland
Yvenson Bernard (Sr.), Oregon State
Curtis Brinkley (Jr.), Syracuse
Aaron Brown (Jr.), TCU
Andre Brown (Jr.), NC State
Donald Brown (So.), Connecticut
Thomas Brown (Sr.), Georgia
Kenny Cattouse (Sr.), Troy
Hugh Charles (Sr.), Colorado
Jamaal Charles (Sr.), Texas
James Davis (Jr.), Clemson
Calvin Dawson (Sr.), UL Monroe
Joseph Doss (Sr.), Memphis
Rodney Ferguson (Jr.), New Mexico
Damion Fletcher (So.), Southern Miss.
Justin Forsett (Sr.), California
Matt Forté (Sr.), Tulane
Mike Goodson (So.), Texas A&M
BenJarvus Green-Ellis (Sr.), Mississippi
Mike Hart (Sr.), Michigan
P.J. Hill (So.), Wisconsin
Patrick Jackson (Jr.), Louisiana Tech
Javarris James (So.), Miami (FL)
Ian Johnson (Jr.), Boise State
Felix Jones (Jr.), Arkansas
Jorvorskie Lane (Jr.), Texas A&M
Rafael Little (Sr.), Kentucky
Marlon Lucky (Jr.), Nebraska
Kregg Lumpkin (Sr.), Georgia
Chris Markey (Sr.), UCLA
DeMyron Martin (Jr.), SMU
Darren McFadden (Jr.), Arkansas
Rashard Mendenhall (Jr.), Illinois
Jalen Parmele (Sr.), Toledo
Amir Pinnix (Sr.), Minnesota
Ray Rice (Jr.), Rutgers
Kory Sheets (Jr.), Purdue
Steve Slaton (Jr.), West Virginia
Kevin Smith (Jr.), Central Florida
Ontario Sneed (Jr.), Central Michigan
C.J. Spiller (So.), Clemson
Tyrell Sutton (Jr.), Northwestern
Courtney Tennial (Sr.), Tulsa
Marcus Thomas (Sr.), UTEP
Ryan Torain (Sr.), Arizona State
Chris Wells (So.), Ohio State
Shannon Woods (Jr.), Texas Tech
Albert Young (Sr.), Iowa State

A phenomena is beginning just a few hours.

25 hours of college football. Call it a telethon, marathon, Christmas in August, the fourth layer of Hell. Call it whatever you want, but you can't escape it. Don't leave the TV on tonight when you fall asleep or ESPN will take on Freddy Krueger-like powers and invade your dreams.

If it's a telethon, somewhere Jerry Lewis is steaming. If it's a marathon, Lance Armstrong is pissed because his marathon was 26.2, not 25. If it's Christmas in August, it'd imagine the Christian faith would have something to say. Same for Dante if it's that layer we talked about. So who knows what it is...besides overkill.

If you try to watch the whole thing, you'll know Rece Davis' middle name by the time LSU faces Miss. St. Thursday night. You'll be pitching Hawaii for the BCS if you watch from 3 a.m. to 5 a.m., when they'll likely only talk about the only part of the country that's awake. You will still want the network to fire Lou Holtz.

I'll just copy and paste the ESPN schedule about it here, per its media release:

8/29
7 p.m.
College Football Live: Live shots from the ESPN, ESPN2 and ESPNU Thursday night game telecasts; live coverage of the USC practice and interviews with coaches and players; live coverage of Louisville, Florida State and Mississippi State pep rallies plus interviews with coaches and players from both teams; live interviews with various coaches, including West Virginia’s Rich Rodriguez; Notre Dame coaches roundtable with host Brent Musburger and former coaches Ara Parseghian, Lou Holtz and Charlie Weis.

11 p.m.
SportsCenter

8/30
midnight
College Football Live

12:30 a.m.
NFL Live

1 a.m.
SportsCenter

3 a.m.
College Football Live: Live updates with live interviews with Hawaii coach June Jones and Hawaii quarterback Colt Brennan

5 a.m.
SportsCenter

Noon
College Football Live

3 p.m.
Outside the Lines

3:30 p.m.
College Football Live

4 p.m.
NFL Live

4:30 p.m.
Rome is Burning

5 p.m.
Around the Horn

5:30 p.m.
PTI

6 p.m.
SportsCenter

7 p.m.
College Football Live

8 p.m.
#2 LSU at Mississippi State

Three things: If it's 25 hours of college football, will SportsCenter, PTI, NFL Live, etc. be exclusively college football? "Welcome to NFL Live: College Football Edition! I'm Trey Wingo and I want to kill my producer." No?

Second: Why am I slighted so much? When I'm on the 8:10 JetBlue flight to Richmond tomorrow and I get to enjoy my 36 channels of DirectTV, including ESPN, I have to watch SportsCenter, not hours 13 and 14, where they would likely be discussing Ian Johnson's wedding decor.

Finally, this whole thing is presented by TiVo. At first I thought it was a paradox that a device that cuts out commercials was advertising, but then it hit me. They don't need commercials because it's presented by them. Genius. Beating their own system.

I'm done with this, I've given it too much.

I'm slated for a 10-question Q&A with Cal's DeSean Jackson this afternoon. I'll probably post it tomorrow morning, and I'll make this a weekly thing with a big-name player. Give me your suggestions and any questions you'd like me to ask DeSean. Interview should go down about 4ish.

I'd love to write more, but I have that whole 4-midnight thing. Might as well promote some of it. Here's video No. 3 with my good buddy Bob.

Like I said, me in front of a camera is a work in progress.

Good surprise tomorrow in the works. Might not be up until about 4 or 5 p.m. I promise you'll like it. It's better than me on a video player.

By Adam Abramson

Good morning,

First I'll start with some news. LSU will be getting a new Mike the Tiger. Mike the Tiger V died last year and the search has been on since. Don't brush this off as trivial. LSU's tiger is highly HIGHLY respected and loved in Baton Rouge.

I first heard back in June that the new Mike would be introduced at the first home game on Sept. 8 against Virginia Tech. However, that was put to rest on Monday when reports said Roscoe (not yet named Mike) will be on campus on the 8th, but not in Death Valley. Good news for Tech fans.

If you want to see where Mike VI will live, visit the website. It's insane. Click here.

One other thing...

Colleague Mark is looking for a new college football team to root for this year. He's calling all readers for a vote. Now, we all know who I am going to vote for, but the rest is up to you.

Check it out.

OH! Thanks to Reggie Bush for stopping in and posting. Might be the comment of the year.

I'll return later today.

By Adam Abramson

Emmanuel Moody will be a Florida Gator.

The former USC running back chose the 2006 National Champs over the University of North Carolina.

He told ESPN's Joe Schad it's "a business decision." USC just had too many backs sharing carries.

Fair enough, but let's look at depth charts for the two schools he was choosing between:

Florida:
Kestahn Moore, sophomore
Brandon James, true freshman
Chris Rainey, true freshman
Chevon Walker, true freshman

North Carolina:
Richie Rich, sophomore
Anthony Elzy, true freshman
Ryan Houston, true freshman

I'm not prepared to say North Carolina's backfield is much weaker, but three of the true freshman on UF's roster were blue chip prospects. Now, Mannuel has a proven track record, but I hope he doesn't assume he's going to be the featured back next year. I'm sure Moore, James, Rainey and Walker will have a say in the matter.

Furthermore, the spread offense? If it's a business decision, go to a school where you'll get 20 or more carries a game. A school like Georgia Tech (...or UNC under Butch Davis) would have been great for Moody.

By Adam Abramson

It's game week. Finally. I wrote a little thing in the print edition of the paper on Virginia Tech. The editors used my Top 10 teams, players and Big East outlook. Pretty neat stuff.

Also, some exciting news. You'll be able to hear me on the radio this fall. I'll follow with details when I have them. Stay tuned (pun intended).

Let's wrap up the conference rankings. We'll start with No. 1, scroll down to see No. 2.

I can't emphasize my excitement: It's game week!

SEC

No real surprise here. The Southeastern Conference's dominance continues and doesn't appear to be going anywhere as programs like Kentucky blossom. With Nick Saban at Alabama, it's just another program that's back in the mix.

Even the teams lurking at the bottom of the standings can't be slept on. Ask LSU about its 2006 overtime scare against the Rebels or Georgia about its home loss to Vanderbilt.

There's five teams who can pitch a fit for the SEC title this year and three others who could sneak in if the big boys beat each other up enough (Auburn, Kentucky and South Carolina).

I don't know what else to say about the SEC that I haven't said this summer. Almost a quarter of my Top 25 is from the SEC, same goes for the AP and Coaches polls.

Actually, I will say watch out for Kentucky quarterback Andre' Woodson. The senior is getting a fair amount of preseason hype after a monster 2006 season. He's the best signal caller in the conference, sorry Tim Tebow. If you need a refresher, think back to his 299-yard, 3TD bowl game outing against Clemson.

And, just a news note: LaMarcus Coker has been reinstated by Phil Fulmer. Tennessee should be fine running the ball this season with he, Arian Foster and Montario Hardesty.

Predicted order of finish:

Champion: LSU

Big XII

Considering I spent a week defending my praise for Texas A&M and Nebraska and my lack of faith in Oklahoma, I've spoken at length about the Big 12.

The conference is really solid this year and it's not getting enough credit. Why, Adam, why do you say this?

It's simple. There are four legitimate contenders for the conference title. Compared to the conferences we've look at thus far, the Big XII appears more top heavy with Texas, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas A&M:

Big 10: Michigan, Wisconsin, Penn State
Pac 10: Southern California, Cal
Big East: West Virginia, Louisville, Rutgers
ACC: Virginia Tech

If you want to argue schools like Wake, Florida State, Georgia Tech and Miami are up for the ACC title, then they have to hope a very talented Tech team falters. They don't qualify as legitimate. As far as the conferences with three contenders, the Big 10 and the Big East, they lack the depth that the Big XII has.

The maturation of programs like Kansas, Texas Tech and Missouri, coupled with the quick turnaround at Kansas State gives the conference a lot of depth. Also, don't sleep on Colorado this year, the Buffs are somewhere in the middle of taking baby steps and strides. Whatever, just don't be surprised if Colorado is back in the bowl mix this year.

What intrigues me most is whether any of these conference contenders could pitch a fit in a national title game. I think Texas has the offensive weapons in Colt McCoy, Jamaal Charles and Limas Sweed to keep any defense honest, but we'll see what happens when they face a prolific offense. Can Mack Brown's 11 hold up against a grinding rushing attack in the Red River Shootout or regular season finale in College Station?

As much as I raved about Texas A&M two weeks ago, the team that everyone should be most scared of is Nebraska. The offensive pieces are in place and have a great coach steering that ship and the defense might just be good enough this season. Bill Callahan's team has the advantage playing in the weaker North division, which could spell BCS for the Huskers.

But enough about the big wigs, we've driven them into the ground the last month. It's teams like the Jayhawks, Wildcats and Tigers who are going to make the conference interesting.

Kansas: After a valiant 6-6 campaign, the Jayhawks have a serious shot at winning 7 or 8 games this season. What's missing this year is running back Jon Cornish (1,457 yards), but Jake Sharp was promising in limited action as a freshman last year. A bowl game is a must for Mark Mangino's boys.

Kansas State: When Ron Prince was hired everyone expected a quick turn around, and that's exactly what happened. After nine combined wins in '04 and '05, Prince came in, went 4-4 in the conference, picked up seven wins and made it to a bowl game. All of this was with a highly touted true freshman who threw four touchdowns and 12 INTs. Now that his head is not spinning 700 mph, Josh Freeman should lead the Wildcats to a similar season, but perhaps a bowl win this time around.

Missouri: The Tigers might have the best quarterback in the conference this year. Chase Daniel completed 64% of his passes, had 26 total touchdowns and led his team to an 8-win season (a nose hair from nine). If he continues to improve and running back Tony Temple has a big senior year, 10 wins is not out of the question (can't afford one slip up and they have to beat the two teams directly above them in this short list).

Predicted order of finish:

Predicted order of finish:

I know, the North looks the same as last year.

Champion: Nebraska

I will be back in the swing next week.

I've just been jammed up with the college football preview that hits racks tomorrow. You've seen most of it. But I'll link to my VT story.

Conferences on Monday morning when you arrive at your desk. I promise.

But before I go, I am once again perplexed by Charlie Weis. He's decided who is his starter will be for Notre Dame's opener, but won't reveal. So, while that doesn't sound too bad, this does:

“I’m not positive if he knows. Because if I told him, then he’d have to lie to you if you asked him the question,” Weis said.

So, the Irish are gearing up to play a pretty tough Georgia Tech team, but he hasn't announced a starter to the team? Or even to the guy? Weis: “I think if they haven’t figured it out by now then they’re not very smart.” OK, so why the head games?

I think it's smart to keep your hand hidden, especially when the offense can have several looks, but you have to establish a leader in practice for everyone to look to. I'd like to think one guy is running with the first teamers moreso than someone else, but who really knows?

And, I was just watching College Football Live on ESPN and Lou Holtz said he thinks the Irish will win 10 games. Seriously?

Afternoon,

I'm here to apologize. I was swamped last night at work trying to get stuff filed for this weekend's college football preview. Then last night we took a coworker out because it's her last week. Getting home at 4 and getting up at 9:30 to play basketball left me no time to work on a conference today. I'll crank it out at work tonight and when you wake up in the morning, you'll be reading about conferences until your eyes bleed (okay, I'll keep it under 1,000 words, promise).

To make it up, I'm posting the video below. Hopefully you'll get a good laugh. Put on some headphones if you're at work. The song is newer on the hip-hop scene and was the intro song for Entourage last week. So, take it as a cultural lesson, if nothing else. This video brought me to tears I laughed so hard.

By Adam Abramson

I spent the morning talking to Virginia Tech quarterback Sean Glennon. Entering his junior season, I think he's poised for a big year. Tech has a great ambassador in him and his face should be in front of every TV camera that rolls through town. Well spoken, good answers, generally honest (as opposed to a cliche machine).

The Hokies announced that stud freshman Tyrod Taylor is now the backup and former back up Ike Whitaker has moved to wide receiver. I propose a few wrinkles be added to the playbook: end around pass, WR screen pass or line up with Ike at WR, running back Branden Ore at QB, then motion Ike to the backfield and give it a go. I guess it's easy to be a keyboard coach.

I'm working on a VT story for the college football preview this weekend, I'll post a link when it runs.

On to business.

Big 10

Having your own network doesn't get you any extra credit points with Campus Confidential.

If Ohio State had a roster similar to last year's (especially on offense), they could pitch a serious argument why they're the toughest conference in the country. But the loss of that powerhouse this year has bumped the Big 10 down some. Don't get too down, Big 10ers, third place still gets a spot on the medal stand.

One theme about the conference is that all the major players have questions concerning the depth chart.

Can Michigan rebound from the defensive overhaul? Can Ohio State rebound from the offensive overhaul? How will a new quarterback do up in Wisconsin this year? Can Penn State be elite 22 guys they put on the field this year (they've been good, not great)?

But the questions don't stop there. How good is the depth?

What is life in Iowa going to be like with Drew Tate graduated? Is this the year for Illinois to break out under Ron Zook? Can Purdue string together a season of solid performances? How will Indiana fare without Coach Hep as a guiding force? Can Michigan State and Minnesota quickly adapt to their new coaches? What's going on at Northwestern…in any sense?

Teams like Minnesota and Iowa have to put up better records than .500 if they want to give their conference more bragging rights. The Hawkeyes avoid Michigan this year, but travel to Wisconsin and Penn Sate to make up for it.

In Champagne, it's no surprise that Zook is recruiting his tail off, as he did in Gainesville. It might take another year for Juice Williams to become a consistent threat, but having a guy like Arrelious Benn as a target will help. It has to be better than a two-win season for Illinois. The Illini should shoot for six wins, seven would be a huge step forward.

Purdue could win 10 games this season. You heard it here. In order to do such, the following games are must-win: at Penn State, vs. Notre Dame, vs. Iowa and at Indiana.

Speaking of Indiana, we've asked if they'll be fine without Coach Hep. The answer is yes. Indiana went 5-7 last year and I wouldn't be surprised to see that the other way around this year (meaning 7-5…yup).

As far as Michigan State and Minnesota, I'm not expecting much from either. One of them has to finish .500, otherwise it could be a down year for the Big 10 when bowl season runs around.

It would look like: Michigan, Ohio State, Wisconsin, Penn State, Purdue and two of Indiana, Iowa, Michgian State and Minnesota. If three of those last four can make a bowl and six of those eight win their bowl games, you have to argue that it's the best, or second-toughest conference in the land. We'll see.

Can we just add a team and get a championship game, please?

Predicted order of finish:
1. Michigan
2. Penn State
3. Wisconsin
4. Purdue
5. Ohio State (crazy, I know)
6. Indiana
7. Minnesota
8. Michgian State
9. Iowa
10. Illinois
11. Northwestern

By Adam Abramson

Morning, I'll come through later today with my No. 3 conference. I have to knock out some interviews and then I'll finish up and post.

It was a great 71-year ride for the Miami Hurricanes in the Orange Bowl. But it's time to say "goodnight, Sweet Prince."

Starting in 2008, the team will move to Dolphin Stadium for home games.

I covered a game at the Orange Bowl in 2004 and the first thing I remember thinking is "Man, this place is completely opposite of the football program." The old and rickety venue was home to a flashy, modern team. Although I must say looking at the end zone and seeing a row of palm trees was unique, and quite beautiful.

A move to Dolphin Stadium is a step down in tradition for the Canes, but a step up in amenities and revenue. People who graduate from UM make money and spend money on things like luxury boxes.

As the AP article put it: The Hurricanes won three national championship games on that field, had a NCAA-record 58-game home winning streak from 1985 through 1994 and have drawn more than 17 million fans there over the years. Although, when I was covering what was essentially the 2004 ACC Championship game, it was anything but full.

What I don't like is that Dolphin Stadium is 20 miles from campus. 20 miles! That's almost a marathon away. I can't think of many other major programs with a similar setup. UCLA is a ways from the Rose Bowl, but at least there's Pasadena. It's the perfect stage for a football Saturday. Unless Opa Locka has changed dramatically since I've lived there, spectators will have to drive a long way, tailgate and leave.

Are there any other major programs that I'm missing?

By Adam Abramson

I'm back. Here's No. 4 in the conference rankings. And, I promise I really took the whole West Coast Bias into account.

Pac 10

I've read and seen a lot of outlets say it's the second best conference in the country. However, there's nine other schools not named Southern California.

It's a pretty strong group, but I question the depth. Southern California is good enough to represent two good schools in any other conference, I think this was proven when the running back depth chart took no hit with Emmanuel Moody transferred. The problem is, at least it's a problem for the Pac-10, the talent on that roster only counts for one school (naturally).

Cal is strong. UCLA is good, but not great. Oregon is good, but not great. Arizona is continually improving, but not there yet. The same goes for Oregon State. And Arizona State will be good again, but not this year. Stanford and the Washington schools are as dormant as Cal's mascot during the winter months.

Again, there's a lot of promise, but there's a lot of questions. Can UCLA win more than one big game in a season? Can Oregon?

Big steps have been taken in improving the depth of the conference. Thank Jeff Tedford, Mike Stoops, Mike Bellotti and Pete Carroll.

Every year the Pac-10 is improving. This year it'll be better than 2006 (3-3 in bowl games, with some impressive wins).

And I give the nod to the Pac-10 over the Big East because of depth, in case you were curious.

Predicted order of finish:
1. Southern California
2. Cal
3. UCLA
4. Oregon
5. Arizona
6. Oregon State
7. Washington State
8. Arizona State
9. Washington
10. Stanford

By Adam Abramson

So I dropped the ball.

I should have released two conferences on Monday so I could unveil the Top 4 solo. But, I didn't think ahead even though I wrote ahead.

So, this morning I'll bring you the conference that is...next to weakest? Later today I'll drop another conference on you. Two-fer Tuesday.

But before that, I want to share some Charlie Weis quotes about his prized recruit at quarterback, Jimmy Clausen.

Clausen was nabbed outside of a liquor store and cited for...well, breaking the law. Apparently he was with someone of age who was purchasing liquor. Maybe he's just a nice guy and was giving someone a ride. But then again, he's a college freshman.

Here's his coach's take:

"So was (Clausen) in the wrong place at the wrong time? Absolutely. But I think it's out of ignorance, and by ignorance I mean lack of knowledge. I don't think he was defiantly trying to get himself in trouble with the law."

Huh? Two key things here:

1. Defiantly trying to get himself in trouble with the law...who defiantly tries? Rioters. Assuming Jimmy is guilty, he's like everyone else who breaks the law: In the wrong place in the wrong time.

2. Lack of knowledge? Of the law? I was busted by an RA for something similar my freshman year of college. I didn't defiantly try to get myself in trouble with the law. But I knew what the H-E-double hockey stick what I was doing. I was breaking the rules and I got caught.

To Weis' credit, he did say "You can't sit there and say, when something happens, that nothing happened."

Thanks, coach.

Moving on...

Big East

Huh? The conference has three teams in the Top 16!

Yeah, but who else? South Florida has proven it's a program to be reckoned with, but I wouldn't say it's at the next level, yet. Connecticut is improving, but still has a bit of work before it can talk a big game. Syracuse has fallen off the map (and really needs to get the people in place to get it back on…). Pitt is once again teetering on the map, but I think it's going to be another year or two.

Last year, the Big East proved it can play tough defense and run the ball and it will do the same this season. It's a very young and promising conference that has rebounded in the wake of the ACC's liquidation.

Holding on to Greg Schiano and Rich Rodriguez was really important for the state of the conference this year and the years to come. Keeping Bobby Petrino around would have gone a long way, especially in the near future.

One program to keep an eye on is Cincinnati. The Bearcats won eight games in 2006, despite playing five against the Top 25. It might be a tough year with a new coach and offense in place. Brian Kelly is going to take a very balanced offense and turn it into a very pass-heavy attack. It's tough to implant that in Year One. But overall, the Bearcats could be winning bowl games in the near future (as they did in 2006).

Speaking of bowl games, the Big East was 5-0 last year. Not too shabby for an eight-team conference. And one of those teams, Pitt, is fast-growing and could be making waves as early as next season.

Once left for dead, the Big East is making moves and isn't a group to sleep on.

Predicted order of finish:
1. West Virginia
2. Rutgers
3. Louisville
4. South Florida
5. Pittsburgh
6. Cincinnati
7. Connecticut
8. Syracuse

By Adam Abramson

This week we're going to take a look, rank and discuss the BCS conferences. Considering we've talked a lot about players lately, I want to look at the conference as a whole. I'm throwing tradition out the window, because we're looking at who is the best THIS YEAR.

Let's start with the weakest and we'll work our way forward.

Atlantic Coast Conference

There's just too many questions in this year's Atlantic Coast Conference to give them respect. For starters, it's not very top heavy. Virginia Tech is practically the unanimous favorite to take the cake and it's rather unimpressive after that.

Wake Forest winning the ACC title 9-6 over Georgia Tech in 2006 pretty much sums of the state of the conference the last three years (2007 included). I know I said tradition is out, but it shouldn't be much of a surprise that the ACC is not ranked higher. Don't think I should hate on Wake Forest? Wins over Duke and North Carolina State last year were by the same total as the two schools had in the win column, combined…3. A 14-13 home thriller over 0-12 Duke and a 25-23 hair raiser over 3-9 NC State. Yup.

I actually think Miami and Florida State have a fighter's chance this year to turn some heads and win 8 games, but a lot of good things have to happen in the Sunshine State, a lot. After those two schools and VT, the cream of the crop is pretty stale.

It's kind of weird to say that a conference with Miami, Florida State and Virginia Tech is the weakest of all BCS conferences, but there's very little depth. Clemson is sure to provide some, but the jury is out on Boston College and Georgia Tech.

I doubt it's going to stay like this for very long, however. This could actually be the ACC's last "down year" for a while. Things are looking way up in Blacksburg, Tallahassee, Miami, Raleigh, Boston, Clemson and Chapel Hill. All said towns have promising young quarterbacks and fantastic staffs that are in the process of rebuilding programs (sans VT rebuilding).

With respect to non-BCS games, The Gator Bowl might be the one conference pundits and officials keep a close eye on. The alliance with The Big East or Notre Dame could be a good measuring stick for what the ACC truly has to offer. I'd say Chick-fil-A Bowl, but the SEC is just too powerful right now.

Predicted order of finish:

Champion: Virginia Tech

By Adam Abramson

This was tough. I wanted to rank the two studs below 1 and 1A. They're both that good.

I'll just explain the rest below.

2. Brian Brohm
The Louisville field general passed up some serious scratch and returned for his senior season and his reward should be the honor of being the first QB taken in the 2008 Draft. He's ready for Sundays now. I'm a little worried that his numbers will suffer some with coach Bobby Petrino now in Atlanta. However, with Vick in the proverbial doghouse, perhaps he's the future of the Falcons. Brohm has all the intangibles: size, patience, decision making, leadership, etc. Sometimes his throwing motion has me doing a double take (almost like he short-arms it), but I think much of that could be related to a lightning-quick release. Whatever it is, the ball is usually on point and in the hands of his dangerous receivers. It's fun to watch Brohm take his five-step drop, go through his read progressions, step up and fire a strike because he does it with great poise. Brohm has the tendency to check down to a tight end, back or short pattern, but he has the arm and the receivers in Harry Douglas and Mario Urrutia to let it fly - something he should do all season long. Assuming he plays in every game this year, there's no reason he shouldn't have 400 attempts, 3,600 yards, 25 TDs and no more than five or six INTs. However, he has the skill set that he should be aiming to improve his completion percentage to the neighborhood of 70 (63 in 2006).

1. Darren McFadden
I watched run after run and the result was the same: Extreme efficiency from the very first step. The Arkansas junior doesn't waste a tenth of a second on any play. His eyes are constantly moving. On one play he can follow his blocks and spring a 20-yard run and the very next play create his own lane with his vision and pick up 40. At 6'2, 205, McFadden generally chooses to run right by you, but has no problem throwing the forearm shiver and sending a defender haplessly to the ground. I'm not going to go bananas about the fact he throws for touchdowns. He's a running back who has a solid arm and as much credit should go to Houston Nutt and his staff for calling his number to throw when they do. There's a reason he was the Heisman runner up, especially when you consider the level of defense he faces week in-and-out. Better enjoy the country's best college football player this year, 'cause Momma says it's all we'll see of him in Fayetteville. And finally, one of my favorite TV-watching moments came last week when he was on ESPN's First Take. Jay Crawford asks what's on his iPod and he replies simply with "Boosie and Webbie." Jay Crawford didn't know what to say really…but Boosie is what's hot right now. He needs to get with it…WIPE HIM DOWN.

Less than two weeks......

By Adam Abramson

I decided to unveil Nos. 1 and 2 on Friday instead of just one. If I left it with just one, there'd be no suspense. It would be like them released the Heisman runner ups the night before they crowned the winner, it just doesn't make sense.

Here we go.

4. Dan Connor
While everyone was going bananas for now-Buffalo Bill Paul Posluszny, Penn State's Dan Connor was doing as much as his elder, if not more. In 2006, Posluszny had 116 tackles, Connor had 113. Posluszny had 9.5 tackles for loss, Connor had nine. Posluszny had three sacks, Connor had five. Connor also had two interceptions (Poz had none) and three forced fumbles (two for the senior). He also had a safety…consider that the cherry on the sundae. After a sick freshman year, Connor missed some games in '06 but still put up great numbers. Last year he took on All-American form but patiently waited in the wings for his mentor to move on. Well he's gone. It's Connor's show and he won't disappoint. If anyone in State College has lived up to the five-star billing he's had coming out of high school, it's Connor. The No. 1 linebacker ranking he had coming out of high school in 2004 holds true today as he suits up for his senior season. My two favorite things about Connor: He's a former running back (imagine trying to tackle 6'3, 230 pounds of man) and the extended neck roll he sports during games. I don't think there's anything more intimidating.

3. John David Booty
I thought for a long time as to where I should put Booty on this list. Then it hit me. If I had the weapons that Booty has then I would rank somewhere about 9 or 10 on the list. Since the USC gunslinger is a lot better than I am, he's just fine being ranked No. 3. In all seriousness, his body of work last season speaks for itself - it doesn't matter who he was throwing to or who was blocking for him. Booty should be in New York for Heisman night this winter because he's good at two things: winning and putting up insane numbers while winning. 3,300 yards, 29 touchdowns, 144 passer efficiency, 12 wins. Those were his numbers as a first-year starter. It's almost unfair to think what's going to happen assuming he matures as a leader, decision maker and raw passer going into his senior season. If he can throw for 3,800 yards and 35-40 touchdowns, it's gonna be real hard to keep from winning that said Heisman. They say three's a crowd, but I don't think Pete Carroll is complaining when the crowd is Carson Palmer, Matt Leinart and John David Booty.

By Adam Abramson

Pat Bostick watch: He's getting ready to compete (and earn, I presume) for the starting job, again.

Otherwise, Tuesday was a bad day for wide receivers. Bostick lost his top target in Derek Kinder for the season with a torn ACL. Percy Harvin is being hampered by an achillies. Indiana receiver James Hardy is out two weeks with a broken finger. And Arkansas stud Marcus Monk is out 4-6 weeks with a knee.

At UConn, JUCO transfer Tyler Lorenzen will start and transfer Jarrell Miller (linebacker) must sit. I'll post more about Miller later, for all the Huskies reading.

On to the player list. No objections to 10-8, so I guess I did something right.

Here's 7-5. Discuss.

7. Jake Long
Michigan's left tackle has 27 starts under his belt and should be a Top 10 pick in next year's draft. What else is there to say about a dominating offensive lineman? He's really good and after this season he'll be really wealthy and probably have a Lombardi Award. He's on the same level as this year's No. 3 pick from Wisconsin, Joe Thomas. Chad Henne and Michael Hart should walk over and give Long huuuge hugs after every game and thank him profusely for his mastery protecting their be-hinds.



6. Ray Rice
Why not Steve Slaton? Well, I think the West Virginia back is a complete stud, but having Pat White's legs really complicates things for opposing defenses and creates tons of opportunities for No. 10. However, No. 27 up in Piscataway has to create a lot on his own - with no mobile quarterback or much of a passing attack to compliment him. Rice rumbled to 1,794 yards and 20 rushing touchdowns last season and left me grumbling when he was not invited to the Heisman ceremony. This year he will be asked for the same kind of production in his junior campaign and like numbers better earn an invite. I think the Rice/Slaton debate can be summed up like this: much of Rutgers' seasons hangs on the shoulders of Rice while WVU would notice Slaton's absence, but could make do without him.

5. Glenn Dorsey
The ability to take over a game from the defensive tackle position is no easy task and not many can say they're capable of such. Glenn Dorsey is one of these rare athletes that combines the size, speed and strength to dictate how an opponent will draft up their rushing attack. At 6'2, 300 lbs., Dorsey is a bad, bad man who could be suiting up on Sundays this fall but chose to come back. On the average snap, Dorsey must fight through about 600-pounds of opponent and yet he finished third on an outstanding defense with tackles last season. He's on virtually every All-American list in existence, so everyone's noticing what No. 72 can do.

15 days 'til kickoff...

By Adam Abramson

This list may have you thinking it's April, but it's the other A-month.

Unlike my Top 25, I don't care who will have the best numbers at the end of the year. If I'm recruiting players, I guess we'll call this the "Big Board."

I'm going to unveil three a day and the final on Friday.

Let's start with 8-10.

10. DeSean Jackson
I thought for a while about choosing Limas Sweed over Jackson to round out this year's list of top players. However, Jackson's versatility and domination of the return game has to put him on this list. Jackson was good for 18 yards per catch last year and 13 touchdowns when you count his four punt return scores. At receiver, Jackson No. 1 weapon is his speed. As far as his return style goes, he's not going to Dante Hall you by making 600 moves. Tthe country's top returner beats you one of two ways: he picks a route and just outruns everyone or he reverses field as his blockers set up a wall to run behind. Either way, it's a treat to watch. If his quarterback, Nate Longshore, improves as expected, he could put up very dangerous numbers.

9. Calais Campbell
Much is made of that imaginary amusement park-like sign that exists for quarterbacks. "You must be at least 72 inches or else people will say you can't see over your own linemen." Well, that's not entirely true because quarterbacks under the height requirement often find ways and end up like the punk kids who cut the line and are in the front row. But, I really feel bad for those vertically challenged signal callers who have to bob and weave for a view around 6'8" Calais Campbell. While most guys his size are dunking on a hoops court, he's manhandling tackles and sacking quarterbacks at an alarming pace. Gaines Adams, last year's top defensive linemen selected in the draft, had numbers that hardly eclipsed the Hurricane bear (actually, Campbell had more tackles and tackles for loss). With his size and speed, you have to think Julius Peppers all over again.

8. James Laurinaitis
When you're an All-American linebacker as a sophomore, you're doing something right. I'd say it's highly unlikely that Laurinaitis regresses this season - or ever, for that matter - so this is a no-brainer. If he puts up a season like did last year, will he go pro? It's a tough call, but I might guess he would say. If he leaves this year, he could be the third or fourth linebacker taken, purely based on potential. However, if I'm a GM, I seriously think about taking him first. Why? Dad was a pro wrestler, mom was a power lifter. Bruiser family. I can't stress this enough: in his first year as a starter, he had 115 tackles, four sacks, five interceptions and All-American honors.

By Adam Abramson

I liked working days last week. A main reason was because I could write and post by 9 a.m.

But this week it's back to the night shift. So, I'll do my best to write in the evenings and post so it will be up in the morning.

Anyway, I'm close to finished on Top 10 players. Check for that tomorrow.

As far as the fantasy dream team…I liked the few submissions I received and think this has potential for something more. Let the wheels turn for a little while and I'll see what I come up with.

Did anyone watch the Chargers-Seahawks last night? I was on a flight home and saw a few minutes of the game. One play I saw that conjured some memories was Darren Sproles darting for a first down on a 3rd-and-21 draw play.

Sproles almost had 2000 yards in '03 and helped the Wildcats reach the Fiesta Bowl (he and Ell Roberson…another story.). Those were the days in Manhattan, I guess. I know a Wildcat or two might be reading this. Good to see Darren out there?

Anyway, I better gear up for the grind. Hope you're making it through Monday. We'll get after it tomorrow.

17 days 'til kickoff.

By Adam Abramson

So, yesterday I told you I was working on editing a video. Here's the video. I'm not very camera-friendly, yet (third time on it, I think). But with practice, I'll be like the pro on the right. I'll be okay with your jabs, I know my place.

Also, what's happening to me? The latest comes from CNNSI.com's Stewart Mandel. Also, he talked to Virginia Tech linebacker Xavier Adibi who discussed having a NCAA 2008 title belt. Also stolen from me and the guys in college.

By Adam Abramson

Let's have a little fun this Friday.

Let's make College Fantasy Football rosters. Do it without looking at a stat sheet for rosters.

Here's the fantasy dream team off the top of my head:

QB - Colt Brennan, Hawaii
RB - Steve Slaton, West Virginia
RB - Chris Wells, Ohio State
WR - Jarrett Dillard, Rice
WR - DeSean Jackson, Cal
WR - Limas Sweed, Texas
TE - Gary Barnidge, Louisville
K - Jeremy Ito, Rutgers
DEF - Virginia Tech

This isn't necessarily the preseason All-Americans or my list of best players. But, from a fantasy standpoint, these are the guys I'd make a dream team with. After looking at the list, I don't know that the names would change that much.

What says you?

By Adam Abramson

Allow me to follow up.

First, great comments and insight left by the OU faithful. Their insight is very fair and full of knowledge.

I did know about DeMarco Murray and actually think he is your most talented back of the bunch. I understand your thought on having a stable of able backs and I think that's fine. But I think it may be just that I'm from the school of thought where three solid backs don't add up to the best back in college football because your featured back is probably going to need two series to get into a groove. So while he's gearing up, your other guys are no longer fresh.

I tried to say earlier today I wasn't knocking Patrick, I think he's a fine back and can also be "All Day." Before I posted this morning's entry, I was talking OU football with a friend who reminded me that OU won all of its games with AP out, but I think having a senior at quarterback didn't hurt, even if it's from a leadership standpoint. It's not like the Sooners will have the worst rushing attack in the country or anything, I'm sure it will be fine. What I am saying is that I expect to see some form of a dropoff because they've had a one-of-a-kind back. If AP is getting the ball 30 times a game and AP2 is getting it 30 times a game, I expect Peterson to put up 175 and I hope Patrick will get 150 (which he did last year).

To me, it all goes back to quarterback. Now, the chances of me eating crow are high if one of these guys comes in and can be a stud right away, because as someone said, get Malcolm Kelly the ball. As we saw last year with Calvin Johnson and a terrible quarterback, it can still work. But, again, you're talking about THE BEST college football player around. So, time will tell at quarterback. I think this is the determining factor. As I said last month, all but FOUR passes were thrown by a non-Paul Thompson arm in 2006.

Now, let me take a deep breath before this one...OK. YES, the Big 12 North is pretty much a joke (and I gave props to the South this morning). BUT, Nebraska is fortunate enough to call the XII North home. Here's where the breath comes in. I really believe Nebraska is better than Oklahoma when you look at the total package. Oklahoma has a better defense, but year-by-year the Black Shirts are improving. So, if the trend continues, NU's defense will be good enough.

Now, there's no way I can be a Franchione supporter, because then I'd have to be institutionalized. When A&M and OU meet, coaching is where OU will have the biggest advantage.

I thought they said don't mess with Texas, but it might need to change to "Don't mess with Texas, and brace yourself if you mess with Oklahoma."

I appreciate everyone's comments. I appreciate the nasty emails I received, they were fun. This is the beauty of college football and sports in general. But I have to say, the informed insight was a breath of fresh air. Keep it coming, I'll talk all day!

But for now, I'm going home.

By Adam Abramson

First, the Pat Bostick watch is over in Pittsburgh. His father has come out and said he should be back in Pitt's camp by this weekend or early next week, so all the Panthers can exhale and continue their safety dance. And, I have to say I love the Wannstedt bashing -- sounds like we have ourselves a little anti-Pitt coup...keep up the heat!

But, to what I really wanted to get into today...Everyone has their britches in a bunch because I didn't rank Oklahoma in the Top 10. There's been a lot of hating going on so I want to back up my stance even further.

1. Let's review my top 10: USC, Michigan, Florida, LSU, Texas, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Virginia Tech, Texas A&M and Tennessee. With the exception of Wisconsin, all of those schools have a solidified starting quarterback -- all of whom have some form of experience. Oklahoma does not. Oklahoma does not have an option with a lic