Two A Days: The Mountain West

1. Boise State- Replacing the FBS’ all-time leader in wins, Kellen Moore, won’t be easy for the Broncos; neither will replacing running back Doug Martin, wide receiver Tyler Shoemaker, and four other starters from an 11-win squad from last season. Stepping up to fill Moore’s shoes will be junior Joe Southwick who threw for 198 yards and a touchdown last season in mop-up duty. Aiding Southwick’s transition will be wideout Matt Miller who hauled in 8 touchdowns and 647 yards last season. Perhaps the biggest hole to fill will be on defense where only two starters return. Luckily for the Broncos, their recent success has had a huge impact on recruiting and there are plenty of viable options to replace what is missing. (Final Prediction: 11-1, 8-0, Maaco Bowl)

2. Nevada-This season the Wolfpack moved from the Boise State dominated WAC, to the Boise State dominated Mountain West.  Quarterback Cody Fajardo (1,707 yards passing, 694 rushing, 17 touchdowns) will be the Wolfpack’s best shot to unseat the Broncos and usher in a new order for the Mountain West. On defense, 6 starters return, but the front seven is inexperienced as a unit and must step up if the Wolfpack want to capture the conference title in their first season. Leading the unit will be senior defensive back Duke Williams who notched 78 tackles last season, including 4.5 for a loss. Final Prediction:  (8-4, 6-2, Poinsettia Bowl)

3. Fresno State-Senior running back Robbie Rouse (1,549 rushing yards, 13 touchdowns) and junior  quarterback Derek Carr (3,544 yards, 26 touchdowns) lead a Bulldogs offense that will be on par with any conference opponent. Senior linebacker Travis Brown (85 tackles, 3 sacks) is also one of the conference’s best, and the return of safety Phillip Thomas who missed last year with a broken leg will help the defense adjust to a new 3-4 scheme. Unfortunately for the Bulldogs, they must make trips to Nevada and to the dreaded “smurf turf” of Boise State. These trips, in conjunction with new schemes on both sides of the ball means the Bulldogs will be playing for third. Final Prediction (8-4, 6-2, Independence Bowl)

4. Wyoming-The Cowboys hope sophomore quarterback Brett Smith can match his superb freshman campaign in which he racked up over 3,300 yards of total offense and accounted for 30 touchdowns. If Smith can keep his torrid pace up, the Cowboys could make some significant noise in 2012, and maybe even reach a bowl game for the first time in years. Alvester Alexander will complement Smith out of the backfield after picking up 695 rushing yards last season. On defense, the Cowboys are led by safety Luke Ruff who notched 102 tackles in 2011 and will be a leader on the unit. Final Prediction: (7-5, 5-3, New Mexico Bowl)

5. Air Force-The Falcons return just six starters and will struggle to rise above the middle of the conference. Senior linebacker Alex Means (77 tackles, 9.5 for a loss, 6 sacks) leads the team and will need to have another monster season for the Falcons to achieve success. On offense, the quarterback, running back, and leading receiver all must be replaced in addition to five other starters. Air Force is used to losing a high number of starters every year and will handle it better than most programs, especially under coach Troy Calhoun who stayed with the team despite offers from a number of larger schools. Final Prediction: (7-5, 5-3, Armed Forces Bowl)

6. Colorado State-Chris Nwoke had a breakout sophomore season in which he racked up 1,130 yards for the Rams, and with new coach Jim McElwain’s run-heavy offense, Nwoke will be counted on to match his output from 2011. The Rams also return all-conference center Weston Richburg to a solid line that should anchor the new offense. On defense, leading tackler Shaquil Barrett returns after leading the team with 99 tackles last season. Also returning to a strong linebacker unit is senior James Skelton who finished second on the team with 91 tackles and also added two forced fumbles. Final Prediction: (6-6, 4-4, no bowl)

7. Hawaii-The biggest change for the Warriors in 2012 will be the adaptation of an offense that includes a tight end, a position not seen at Hawaii since the late 90s. Leading the Warriors new offense (installed by new head coach Norm Chow) will be Billy Ray Stutzmann (nice name) who hauled in 910 yards last season and is one of the few returning stars. The defense is also in shaky shape, with only 4 starters returning from a year ago, and only 2 of the front seven. It is a definite rebuilding year for the Warriors who will be much stronger a few years down the road. Final Prediction (5-7, 3-5, no bowl)

8. San Diego State-The Aztecs return 15 starters, including 9 on offense, and should take a step forward in 2012. Senior corner Leon McFadden is already getting NFL looks and earned them with a 47 tackle, 2 interception, and 17 pass breakup 2011. McFadden leads a strong defense and an even stronger secondary that should be the team’s strength. On offense, the Aztecs will rely on Colin Lockett  (970 yards, 8 touchdowns) to ease the transition of new quarterback Ryan Katz (an Oregon State transfer). Final Prediction: (4-8, 2-6, no bowl)


9. New Mexico-Perhaps the most confusing coaching hire of the offseason was made by the Lobos as they hired former ESPN analyst Bob Davie to lead the program, despite Davie being out of coaching since the 90s. Quarterback BL Holbrook (1,490 yards, 4 TDs in 8 games) is one the few players on the team that can make an impact and will be counted on to lead the team or the Lobos could find themselves in the cellar of the league yet again. Final Prediction: (2-10, 1-7, no bowl)



10. UNLV-The Runnin’ Rebels should run from the competition this season, after a miserable 2011, 2012 doesn't look much better. Despite returning 12 starters (6 offense, 6 defense) the Rebels are still one of the worst teams in the conference. They will live up to their name however, with a strong ground game that returns five starters on the line plus tailback Tim Cornett (671 yards, 7 touchdowns) who has led the team in rushing the past two seasons. Defensively, the Rebels will count on John Lotulelei to help the defense improve from its abysmal level last season. Final Prediction:  (1-11, 0-8, no bowl)

Offensive Player of the Year: Chris Nwoke, RB, Colorado State
Defensive Player of the Year: Leon McFadden, CB, San Diego State

Two-A-Days: Conference USA

East

1. Central Florida-The Golden Knights are built around their stellar defense which ranked at the top of the conference in every category, including a stifling scoring defense that ranked 9^th in the nation. In 2012 the Knights return the majority of the unit, including three of the four secondary spots, including senior safety Kemal Ishmael who led the team with 81 tackles in 2011. On offense, sophomore Blake Bortles will be counted on to lead a depleted unit that only returns 3 starters and wasn’t that great to begin with, ranking in the middle of the conference. Running back tandem Latavius Murray and Storm Johnson will need to step up in a big way for the Knights to achieve any out of conference success. Final Prediction (9-3, 7-1, Liberty Bowl)

2. Southern Miss-After a stunning upset of then-undefeated Houston in the Conference USA championship game, the Golden Eagles defeated Nevada in the Hawaii Bowl. 2012 will not be as kind to them, however, as coach Larry Fedora took the head coaching spot at North Carolina. The Golden Eagles will also be without six starters from a rushing attack that led the conference last season, including Jamal Woodyard, their leading rusher who was arrested on armed robbery charges and was dismissed. Defensive end Jamie Collins (98 tackles, 19 tackles for a loss, 6.5 sacks) leads a defense that will attempt to match their top 25 rankings from a season ago. This is a definite rebuilding year for them but don’t count out another run. Final Prediction: (7-5, 6-2, Beef O’ Brady’s Bowl)

3. East Carolina-For the Pirates, improvement must start with the reduction of turnover margin, a statistic that the Pirates ranked next to last in 2011. Another the problem for the Pirates will be their porous offensive line which allowed 2.5 sacks per game last season and anchored a run game that ranked 105^th nationally. The defense is in better shape, with five members of the front seven returning including C-USA Freshman of the Year middle linebacker Jeremy Grove who tallied 122 tackles in his first year Final Prediction:  (6-6, 5-3 no bowl)

4. Marshall-In any other year, the Thundering Herd would be a contender for a division title and possibly the conference championship, however, 2012 is a good year for many teams, and the Herd will be on the outside looking in for yet another season. The offense will be led by sophomore quarterback Rakeem Cato enjoyed modest success in his freshman campaign, throwing for 2,059 yards and 15 touchdowns. On the receiving end of 12 of those TDs was Aaron Dobson; who pulled out of the NFL Draft at the last minute to return to the Herd. Dobson is big (6 foot 3) and experienced and should provide a security blanket for the offense. Six starters return to a defensive unit that ranked in the middle of the pack last season. In 2012, expect a small step forward, led by a strong linebacking corps and an experienced D-line. Final Prediction (4-8, 3-5, no bowl)

5.  UAB-As in most mid-major conferences, a poor defense spells doom for teams that usually find themselves in run and gun battles. Unfortunately for the Blazers, they have a poor defense, ranking in the bottom 10 in scoring, passing, and total defense in 2011. 2012 should be an improvement however, with a linebacking corps rich in experience and size. On offense, quarterback Jonathan Perry will benefit from a deep receiving corps and a new offense brought in by new coach Garrick McGee. In a tough conference however, with the inexperience on defense and the O-line 2012 will yet again be a tough year.  Final Prediction:(4-8, 2-6, no bowl)

6. Memphis-After an abysmal 2011 season in which the Tigers managed to scrape out two wins, 2012 doesn’t so much more promise. A new coach, new quarterback, and six starters back from an offense that was just as bad as you’d anticipate (116^th in total yardage, 115^th in scoring), the offense will be bad yet again. The defense won’t be much better, especially with the worst pass defense in the nation returning three starters. All in all, the Tigers won’t be much better this season and should look to 2013 for possible success. Final Prediction: (2-10, 0-8, no bowl)
 
West

1. Houston-Last year’s mid-major Cinderella story is without record-setting QB Case Keenum and head coach Kevin Sumlin who bolted for the greener pastures of Texas A&M. Despite these losses, the Cougars are still the strongest team in the C-USA West by a large margin. New quarterback David Piland has game experience he picked up in 2010 when Keenum missed 8 games with a torn ACL. The Cougars will also benefit from the return of 4/5 of the offensive line and their leading rusher from last season. On the other side of the ball, seven starters return to a unit whose strength will be the linebackers. Sophomore Derek Matthews led the team in tackles last season with 106 and will anchor the unit. Stability is also present in their special teams unit which returns the kicker, punter, holder, and long snapper from a year ago. Look for the Cougars to repeat as division champs. Final Prediction: (10-2, 8-0, Armed Forces Bowl)

2. SMU-June Jones’ famous run and gun offense he brought from Hawaii has been a boon for the Mustangs who have begun an upward track. 2012 will be a small step back, however, with a brand new offensive line and Texas transfer Garrett Gilbert under center will have to work with an essentially new offense. Senior running back Zach Line is a stellar offensive player and will be counted on to give life to the Mustang's offense. On defense, the Mustangs will maintain their high level from a year ago, if not take a step forward, starting with senior inside linebacker Taylor Reed who notched 101 tackles last season and will lead a linebacker corps that returns three senior starters. Final Prediction: (7-5, 6-2, Ticketcity Bowl)

3. Tulsa-Returning the majority of their skill players, the Golden Hurricanes are primed to repeat the 8 win campaign from a season ago. Running backs Ja’Terian Douglas and Trey Watts combined for over 1,750 yards on the ground in 2011 and should lead the Golden Hurricane’s offense in 2012. H-back Willie Carter is also an offensive weapon as are receivers Bryan Burnham and Jordan James. The defense also has playmakers, led by safety Dexter McColl who hauled in six interceptions last season and is tied for the career record at Tulsa.  Final Prediction: (7-5, 6-2, New Orleans Bowl)

4. Rice-Hybrid running back/wide receiver Sam McGuffie leads the Owls offense that is filled with big play potential. The only problem will be getting these players the ball, quarterback Taylor McHargue only threw for 1,072 yards last season and must improve on his decision making if the Owls are going to make any noise in the competitive West division. Leading tackler Cameron Nwosu (108 tackles, 58 solo) will be the foundation for the defense and LSU transfer Kyle Prater will add speed. The Owls will need more consistency on both sides of the ball if they want to make any real progress in the conference.  Final Prediction: (4-8, 3-5, no bowl)

5. UTEP-The Miners are in the middle of the pack offensively and will need quarterback Nick Lamaison to take a leap forward and cut down on his mistakes from a season ago (10 interceptions against 12 touchdowns). The real strength of UTEP however, is their experienced offensive line; which has four starters from 2011 and will help give Lamaison more time in the pocket and accelerate the run game. Defensively the Miners are terrible, ranking 104^th in total defense in 2011 and bringing in seven new starters for 2012. Final Prediction: (2-10, 1-7, no bowl)

6. Tulane-Senior quarterback Ryan Griffin is one of the lone bright spots on a Green Wave squad that hasn't reached a bowl game since 2002. Griffin threw for 2,502 yards last season, but must improve on his poor 13-10 touchdown to interception ratio. Running back Orleans Darkwa is the team workhorse, averaging 924 yards in his first two seasons, in addition to 13 touchdowns last year. On defense, the team will count on linebacker Trent Mackey to match his 145 tackles from 2011 and lead the experienced linebacking corps. With a brand new head coach and a defense that has to make huge progress for the team to be competitive, it will be a while before there is joy in Tulane. Final Prediction: (1-11, 1-7, no bowl)

Conference Championship Game: UCF vs. Houston. The Cougars will once again fall short against the more experienced Golden Knights who will use their suffocating defense to capture the title. Champion: Central Florida.

Offensive Player of the Year: Zach Line, RB, SMU

Defensive Player of the Year: Jamie Collins, DE, Southern Miss

Two-A-Days: The MAC

East

1. Ohio--2011 saw the Bobcats notch school records in points, total yards, and passing yards thanks to a no-huddle system. Six starters return from that unit, including junior quarterback Tyler Tettleton who amassed just shy of 4,000 yards last season (3,302 passing, 658 rushing, 38 total TDs), so expect the offense to continue its torrential pace from a year ago. The MAC’s 2^nd ranked scoring defense is returning seven starters, including free safety Gerald Moore who racked up 84 tackles including 4 for a loss in 2011. Even the Bobcat’s special teams returns a stellar player, in kicker Matt Weller who ranked 2^nd in the nation in field goals made and was named MAC Special Teams Player of the Year. Final Prediction: (10-2, 7-1, GoDaddy.com Bowl)

2. Bowling Green--The Falcons’ defense should be the calling card for 2012, led by senior defensive tackle Chris Jones who had a monster 2011, picking up 8.5 sacks, 14 tackles for a loss, and forced three fumbles. Jones looks to match that output alongside 8 other returning starters including senior Dwayne Woods who had 111 tackles last season. Offensively, the Falcons will rely on junior quarterback Matt Schulz (3,024 yards, 18 TDs) to make up for the loss of the entire starting receiving corps. The leading receiving returner, Shaun Joplin, only had 21 catches last season and must step up if the Falcons are to challenge Ohio. Final Prediction: (7-5, 6-2, no bowl)

3. Miami (Ohio)--With a passing attack that ranked 14^th in the nation last season returning many key components, the Redhawks will again take to the air in 2012. QB Zac Dysert (3,513 yards, 23 TDs) has his two leading receivers returning as well, most notably Nick Harwell who hauled in 97 receptions for 1,425 yards and 9 touchdowns in 2011. Balance will be key, however, as the Redhawks ranked dead last in rushing last season, averaging an anemic 73.8 yards per game. On the other side of the ball, the Redhawks return six starters from a decent defense including DE Jason Semmes, who tallied 4.5 sacks in 2011, and CB Dayonne Nunley who had 3 picks. Final Prediction (7-5, 6-2, no bowl)

4. Kent State--An atrocious offense (next to last nationally) was the core of the Golden Flashes problems in 2011 and its seven returning starters must take a step forward if the Golden Flashes want to make any noise in a competitive MAC East. The defense is in much better shape however, ranking 21^st nationally in total defense. Leading the seven returning starters is Roosevelt Nix who tallied 17 tackles for a loss and 4.5 sacks in 2011. The secondary is also ripe with veterans and should help the Golden Flashes stay in games, even with their less than stellar offense. Final Prediction (6-6, 5-3, no bowl)

5. Akron--The Zips ranked near the bottom in most categories on both sides of the ball in 2011 with their lone win coming against perennial FBS doormat VMI (and even that was only by 23 points). 2012 should be better for Akron, with the return of 6 starters on offense, including their leading passer, rusher, and receiver from a year ago. Defensively, the Zips must hope 8 new starters can gel quickly and stop the run, which was a glaring weakness in 2011 (108^th nationally). It will be a long year for the Zips yet again, but it shouldn’t be for too many more seasons. Final Prediction: (3-9, 2-6)

6. Buffalo--In 2011, Branden Oliver set school records in carries, rushing yards, and all-purpose yards, all while just a sophomore. In order for the Bulls to succeed in 2012, Oliver must again put up stellar numbers, especially with another new quarterback, the 3^rd in 3 years. On defense, the Bulls will hope that the 7 starters that return from 2011, can put together another decent year that can allow the offense some breathing room against a tough schedule both outside the conference and in.  Final Prediction: (2-10, 1-7)

7. UMass--Another new program to the ranks of the FBS, the Minutemen are looking to quickly achieve success. That success won’t come in 2012 however, with the Minutemen traveling to Michigan, Indiana, and Vanderbilt in addition to playing a tough conference slate. The star of the team is undoubtedly senior MLB Perry McIntyre who led the team in tackles (116), tackles for a loss (11.5), and sacks (6.5) in 2011. Alongside McIntyre will be seven other returning starters including senior FS Darren Thellen who had 5 interceptions in 2011 to go along with his 68 tackles. With only one wideout with more than one catch (Marken Michael has 3) the Minutemen will struggle to score enough points in the offense-first MAC. Final Prediction (0-12, 0-8, no bowl)

West

1. Western Michigan--The juggernaut of the MAC West, the Broncos are loaded on offense, with 3 year starting quarterback Alex Carder (3,873 yards, 31 TDs) leading a passing attack that ranked 8^th in the nation last year;  and with 6-8 RT Dann O’Neill anchoring the O-line, a ground game should also emerge for the Broncos. Defensively, the Broncos struggled in 2011, including giving up 66 points and 804 yards to conference foe Toledo. The 2012 unit is filled with returning starters and upperclassmen, so look for a marked improvement. Final Prediction (9-3, 8-0, Famous Idaho Potato Bowl)

2. Northern Illinois--2011 saw the Huskies pick up the MAC conference championship and another 11 win season, including a win in the GoDaddy.com bowl against Arkansas State. 2012 won’t be as easy however, as they must try to rebound from losing 8 starters from an offense that ranked 11^th in the country in total yards. The problem is compounded by a tougher schedule, including traveling to MAC West favorite Western Michigan. The Huskies do have the benefit of returning 2011 co-leaders in receptions in seniors Martel Moore and Perez Ashford who both hauled in 47. On defense, the Huskies need to improve to have a shot, despite returning 9 starters. Don’t be surprised however, if the Huskies return to the MAC title game yet again, or if they upset Kansas who visits Dekalb this season.  Final Prediction (9-3, 7-1, Little Caesars’s Bowl)

3. Toledo--Ranking in the top 10 in scoring and total offense in 2011, the Rockets were unquestionably an offensive powerhouse. Unfortunately for head coach Matt Campbell, only 4 starters return from that unit, and the team will be using a new running back, tight end, and three new members of the O-line. Quarterback is less of a question mark, with two proven players battling it out for the starting job. Junior Terrence Owens is the frontrunner after posting 2,022 yards and a sterling 18-3 touchdown to interception ratio last season. The Rockets’ defense is also facing the difficult task of replacing seven starters, but the unit is deep and is helped by key transfers including former Michigan safety Vladimir Emilien who has been moved to linebacker. The Rocket’s 2012 success will depend on how well the new starters gel and adjust to the higher level of competition in the MAC.  Final Prediction (6-6, 4-4, no bowl)

4. Ball State--The Cardinals are primed for a marked improvement from a year ago, as the bulk of the offensive line returns along with the starting quarterback and tailback from a year ago. Unfortunately for the Cardinals, they play in the toughest division in the MAC and also must play the best teams from the MAC East, not to mention their non-conference slate that includes trips to Clemson, Indiana, and Army. The Cardinals will benefit from these contests, in 2013. The defense, which ranked at or near the bottom of the MAC in every category, will have to take massive steps for the team to make any noise. Senior Travis Freeman (134 tackles, four sacks) will lead the unit that will improve, but (yet again) how difficult will it be to improve on the abysmal numbers from 2011? Final Prediction (3-9, 3-5, no bowl)

5. Eastern Michigan--The 14^th ranked rush offense in the country returns in full for 2012, led by QB Aaron Gillet who racked up 736 yards in addition to Javonti Greene (667 yards) and senior Dominique Sherrer. The receiving corps is a question mark however, as two freshman are slated to start for the Eagles. On defense, the Eagles must replace both starting safeties, three members of the defensive line, and half the linebacking corps. Senior linebacker Justin Cudworth (83 tackles, 8.5 for a loss) leads the unit that must pull together if the team hopes to avoid a last place finish. Final Prediction: (3-9, 2-6, no bowl)

6. Central Michigan--The Chippewas have posted consecutive 3-win seasons after reaching incredible heights under the direction of former QB Dan LeFevour. Hope is not all lost however, as another stellar quarterback leads this year’s squad. Ryan Radcliffe racked up 3,286 yards and 25 touchdowns last season and with a receiving corps that remains intact, higher numbers could be in store for the senior. Seven starters return on the defensive side of the ball, but with a defense that ranked in the bottom fifth of FBS last year, those returnees must improve or it will be another long season in Mount Pleasant.  Final Prediction (3-9, 2-6, no bowl)



MAC Title Game: Ohio vs. Western Michigan. The Bobcats are the strongest team in the conference and after blowing a 20 point halftime lead in the 2011 title game, are more focused than ever before. This renewed focus, in addition to the best offense in the conference gives them the edge over the Broncos. Champion: Ohio 

Offensive Player of the Year: Tyler Tettleton, QB, Ohio
Defensive Player of the Year: Travis Freeman, LB, Ball State

Two-A-Days: The Sun Belt

With the emergence of Arkansas State and FIU, the Sun Belt is no longer the laughingstock of the FBS and Arkansas State is primed to have a breakout a year and bring respect back to the Sun Belt.

1. Arkansas State—After a stellar 10-win 2011, the Red Wolves are primed to defend their conference title. Senior quarterback Ryan Aplin is the most dangerous player in the conference after racking up 3,588 yards in the air and 588 yards on the ground, accounting for 29 touchdowns.  Adding to the Red Wolves’ aerial attack are senior receivers Taylor Stockemer and Josh Jarobe, both returning starters. Defensively, the Red Wolves must replace seven members of a unit that ranked in the top 25 in scoring, passing, and total yards. There is reason for optimism however, as the returning starters all have excellent experience and the replacements are mostly upperclassmen. Final Prediction: (9-3, 7-1 Sun Belt, GoDaddy.com Bowl)

2. Louisiana-Lafayette—The Ragin’ Cajuns (awesome name) have the second-biggest offensive threat in the conference with quarterback Blake Gautier, who took over the starting spot in Week 4 and promptly set the school record for passing yards with 2,958. With an offense that returns 8 starters, including the entire receiving corps and conference freshman of the year, tailback Alonzo Harris, the Ragin’ Cajuns will have no problem putting points on the board. The defense, however, is loaded with question marks. Only one member of the front 7 returns and the rest of the team must quickly step up if the Ragin’ Cajuns hope to return to the postseason. Final Prediction: (8-4, 6-2, New Orleans Bowl)

3.  Florida International—In 2011, the Golden Panthers had a suffocating defense that ranked 14^th nationally in scoring. 9 starters return and will lead FIU yet again. Individually, look for senior Winston Fraser (108 tackles, 64 solo) to anchor the unit. Junior running back Kedrick Rhodes (234 carries, 1,149 yards) leads a Golden-Panthers offense that must replace playmaker T.Y. Hilton who led the team in both receiving and returns. Final Prediction: (8-4, 6-2, no bowl)

4.  Louisiana-Monroe—Kolton Browning played the majority of 2011 with a broken sternum and still managed to throw for 2,483 yards and 13 touchdowns.  Along with Browning, seven other offensive starters return, including the entire receiving corps and the team’s leading rusher Jyruss Edwards (143 carries, 667 yards, 11 TDs). On the opposite side of the ball the Warhawks are looking to match 2011’s Sun Belt leading rush defense which also ranked 8^th in the country. Leading the charge will be OLB Cameron Blakes whose senior leadership will be vital during the 2012 campaign. Final Prediction: (7-5, 6-2, no bowl)

5.  Troy—Despite a poor 2011 that saw the Trojans only win 3 games, there is hope. Junior quarterback Corey Robinson is now in his third year as the starter and should continue to build on his solid numbers (3,411 yards, 21 touchdowns) from a year ago. But for the Trojans to truly compete in an improved Sun Belt, the defense must improve on its abysmal numbers from a year ago. The defense ranked 101^st, 105^th, 101^st, and 113^th in scoring, rushing, passing, and total defense respectively and unless those numbers get better, Troy could find themselves looking at another 3 win year. Final Prediction: (5-7, 5-3, no bowl)

6. Western Kentucky—Hilltopper coach Willie Taggart must find a way to replace Bobby Rainey, the #2 rusher in the country from 2011, if he wants to lead his squad to any sort of Sun Belt success. The job of replacing Rainey will fall to senior quarterback Kawaun Jakes who accounted for over 2,000 total yards and 12 touchdowns last season. The offense is new as well, switching from a possession rushing game to a more West Coast style that should allow the Hilltoppers to stretch the field. Defensively, 7 starters return to a unit that ranked in the top 5 of the Sun Belt in nearly every major category and should be a strength this year yet again. The line will be led by Quantereus Smith who tallied 7.5 sacks last season to lead the team. Final Prediction: (5-7, 4-4, no bowl)

7. North Texas—The Mean Green have enormous potential and according to an assistant in the Sun Belt, are “a monster on the rise”. However, 2012 does not look to be their year of coronation. Returning only 4 starters to a defense that ranked in the bottom of the conference in major categories, the Mean Green must hope that the likes of Arkansas State and Louisiana-Lafayette have an offensive off day when they match up. On the offensive side of the ball, the Mean Green return seven starters but must replace school rushing record holder Lance Dunbar in the backfield. Quarterback Derek Thompson must improve on his pedestrian 11 TDs and 6 interceptions from 2011 if North Texas is to reach any of its promised heights. Final Prediction: (4-8, 3-5, no bowl) 

8.  Florida Atlantic—An embarrassing 1 win season in 201 left the Owls at square one yet again. 15 starters returning bodes well, and another one win campaign is out of the question.  The core of the Owls 2011 problems centered on their atrocious offense which managed 7 points or fewer on 6 occasions. To combat this, new coach Carl Pelini is bringing the spread with him. Senior quarterback Graham Wilbert must improve on his 17 TD-15 INT ratio in 2012 if the spread is going to be successful. Randell Johnson (4.5 sacks) leads the Owls’ defense which was better than the offense in 2011 (but that’s not saying much). Final Prediction: (3-9, 2-6, no bowl)

9. Middle Tennessee State—The Blue Raiders’ calling card in 2012 will be a fresh start, as they must replace 7 starters on both sides of the ball and both their kicker and punter from last season. One of the holdovers is junior quarterback Logan Kilgore who threw for over 2,000 yards in 2011 and will look to improve on those numbers in 2012. On the other side of the ball, the Blue Raiders need to improve in nearly every area and with only 4 starters returning, it looks like a tall order. Final Predicition: (2-10, 1-7, no bowl)

10.  South Alabama—Another FBS newcomer, the Jaguars are looking to build a program that will be respected across the nation and, more importantly, in the Sun Belt. There is hope in 2012 however, as 9 starters return to a defense that ranked near the top in every category in the FCS. The Sun Belt is not the FCS however, and if the Jaguars are to achieve any success, the defense must be otherworldly. Offensively the cupboard is essentially bare, with only 4 starters returning, including quarterback CJ Bennett who only threw for 1,640 yards against weaker competition. It could be a long year for the Jaguars. Final Prediction: (1-12, 0-8, no bowl)

Offensive Player of the Year:  Ryan Aplin, QB, Arkansas State

Defensive Player of the Year:  Winston Fraser, LB, FIU

Two A Days: The WAC

With the college football season only a week away, Danger Zone Sports is ready! Every day until kickoff, there will be two college football posts up on the blog. So get excited for the most wonderful time of the year!

We'll kick off Two A Days with out first conference preview as we take on the WAC.

With the departure of Hawaii, Nevada, and Fresno State the depleted WAC stands as the weakest conference in Division I. All is not lost however; Louisiana Tech is fielding one of their strongest teams in years and should breeze through their conference schedule and also will challenge their non-conference foes.

1.   Louisiana Tech—The Bulldogs are undoubtedly the class of the conference and are in excellent position to improve on last season’s respectable 8-5 mark. Led by a tenacious defense that ranked 1^st in the WAC in both total defense and run defense, the Bulldogs are able to shut down any conference foe’s offense and probably will. On the offensive side of the ball, senior Colby Cameron (1,667 yards and 13 touchdowns) looks to pick up where he left off after a torrential 2011 season.  In addition to dominating the conference, Tech should also expect to pick up non-conference wins against Houston, Rice, UNLV and could possibly steal a win from Illinois in Champaign. Final Prediction: (9-3, 6-0 Sun Belt, Famous Idaho Potato Bowl)

2. San Jose State—After a mediocre 2011, the Spartans are looking to have a breakout season. Led by a passing attack that ranked in the Top 25 nationally; returning from the passing attack are three receivers including first team All-WAC Noel Grigsby (89 catches, 866 yards). Also returning is first team All-WAC tight end Ryan Otten. The returners should ease the pain of replacing last year’s starter, a job that will most likely fall to junior David Fales who emerged from the spring as the starter. On defense the Spartans return only four starters and the kicking game is also filled with question marks. There is no question that any game the Spartans are in will feature a ton of offense from both teams. Final Prediction (7-5, 5-1, no bowl)

3.  Utah State-Last year’s conference leader in scoring and rushing offense, the Aggies are hoping to use their high powered ground attack to achieve 2012 success. Returning 5 starters on offense, including three members of the offensive line, they will continue to pound the ball. Taking the bulk of the carries will be senior Kerwynn Williams who rushed for 542 yards on only 81 carries last season. On the defensive side of the ball the Aggies have 6 starters returning from the top ranked unit in the WAC, highlighted by three upperclassmen in the secondary. To make any real noise in the WAC however, the Aggies must improve on their turnover margin which ranked 106^th nationally in 2011. Final Prediction (6-6, 4-2, no bowl)

4. New Mexico State—Despite a passing attack that ranked 26^th in the nation last season, the Aggies only managed to win 4 games. 2012 does look better however, with the return of sophomore Andrew Manley, who started at the beginning of 2011 before being sidelined with a knee injury. The defense also looks stronger with a linebacking corps that returns three upperclassmen and adds a top junior college transfer in linebacker Trashaun Nixon. If the Aggies can improve on the defensive side of the ball, a .500 record is not out of the question. Final Prediction (5-7, 3-3, no bowl)

5. Idaho—The Vandals finished 2011 at a disappointing 2-10 mark, including two overtime losses. This year’s team does not look much stronger and will benefit from playing Division I newcomers Texas State and Texas-San Antonio. Outside of the return of receiver Mike Scott (55 catches, 691 yards, 2 touchdowns), the offense is welcoming essentially a new batch of starters at the skill positions. The defense is dealing with a similar problem, and will have to replace 6 of their front 7. The defense wasn’t that strong to begin with, ranking in the bottom 10 in both passing and total defense. It looks to be a long year for the Vandals. Final Prediction (3-9, 2-4, no bowl)

6. Texas State—Division I newcomer Texas State is faced with an immense challenge with the move up to the tougher FBS after a year in the FCS (formerly Division I-AA). If the Bobcats are to have any success in their new conference they must continue to utilize their run game that averaged 195.3 yards per game in 2011. Shouldering the load will be sophomore tailback Terrence Franks (146 carries, 863 yards, 9 touchdowns) who had an impressive freshman campaign and will be counted on to lead the Bobcats against improved defenses. Final Prediction (2-10, 1-5, no bowl)

7. Texas-San Antonio—The Roadrunners (nice name) are another FBS newcomer who will only spend one season in the WAC before heading to Conference USA in 2013. Despite returning 18 starters (9 on both offense and defense), 2012 will be rough. Quarterback Eric Soza (2,148 yards, 14 touchdowns) will lead the offense against a schedule that features 8 FBS opponents and 5 lower level opponents. Final Prediction: (5-7, 0-6, no bowl) 

Offensive Player of the Year: Colby Cameron, QB, Louisiana Tech

Defensive Player of the Year:  McKade Brady, FS, Utah State

KD35 Commeth

Durantula: The Most Dangerous Player.

With a 7’5” wingspan, playing a position that a man of his stature would not normally play, the agility aspect of his game sometimes make it seem that the two 7’5” arms look like Eight.

Okay, that may be a little extreme. But the fact is, Durant is dangerous. Early in his career he was a scorer, just a pure knock ‘em down shooter. Remind you of some other player (hint: He changed his Jersey to 24). In the four years in the league, Kevin Durant has evolved into, what I would call the most dangerous player. The fact is he isn’t as talented, nor can he fill a sheet like LeBron James, the current holder of ‘Best Player in the World’ title, but unlike LeBron James, Kevin Durant has more game winners than LeBron. The fact is, when it boils down to clutch moments LeBron James just isn’t cold enough. Regardless.

In what would be the ‘real’ match-up, but also a finals preview in an OKC vs. Heat matchup.  This would be the final meeting between LeBron and Durant, the two leading candidates for the KIA MVP award. Durant flirted with a triple double in that game, finishing with 29 points, 9 rebounds, 8 assists, 2 steals, and a single block, compared to King James’s 17 points 7 assists, 4 turnovers, and 3 rebounds. Durant dominated on both ends, playing fantastic defense, giving Kendrick Perkins involved on the opposite side (60% of Durant’s 8 assists went to Perkins).

Early in the start of the lockout shortened season, many experts talked about how Durant, and Westbrook would cause the team to implode, two young stars vying for the spotlights. What should have been team work, would cause tension and then utter chaos. The Thunder would go on to lock up the number 2 seed behind the San Antonio Spurs, (Who they kick off the Western Conference finals against soon).
It didn’t stop at their regular season dominance; Durant would take the Thunder past the defending champion Dallas Mavericks in the hardest 4 game sweep of a team, in history. They would play a even harder 5 game series against the Los Angeles Lakers. It’s easy to say that real mismatches on paper were OKC’s back court (Westbrook, Harden, Durant) would dominate against LA’s (Kobe, Artest/Barnes, Sessions). Where LA had Andrew Bynum one of the top 2 centers in the NBA, and Pau Gasol, but neither player could catch rhythm against OKC’s frontcourt combo of Perkins and Iblocka (I want to go ahead and say that at the beginning of the season I was calling him Iblocka, Iblocka flocka flame to be specific).
Now Durant is in a stride, he hasn’t had a down game thus far.

There have been no questions on Durant’s health, his abilities, or his character. Durant is banging on the door of greatness right now, and what better way to prove it than go up against a team coached by, in my opinion the greatest professional coach in history, Greg Popp. The original big 3: Parker, Manu, and Tim Duncan, Duncan might I add is playing like he was 28 again. Parker was the original slashing point guard, and Manu is easily the original ‘James Harden’.  Not only that, but the Spurs are loaded with experience, are playing some of the greatest playoff basketball anyone has seen in a long time.

The spotlight has been turned up, but the thing is that Durant will never shy away, when the game is at its hardest, when the lights are shining bright. Kevin Durant will step up, he will make that shot. And in one instance, whether it be against the Spurs, the Heat or Celtics/Sixers. Durant is banging on the door, inside waiting for him is the start of a truly epic career, because in this sports fan’s opinion.

Kevin Durant, will be, the greatest player in NBA History. When his career is said and done, written down on the pages of history. On 5/26/2012, Dr. Rob said it. Believe it.

Go Thunder.
Go Devils.

Also want to point out, bought KD and Devil’s swag before the post seasons began. Not a bad idea eh?

Saints Player Punishment

Many apologies to our many loyal and occasional fans and readers. It's also a bummer that I return from my writing hiatus with such a sour topic but this is something that should be discussed. I am hearing from a lot of people that the Saints players should not be punished. Several news outlets and sports fan are only saying that they were following orders and that they should be excused. A few people have been so bold as to say that if Vilma, among other defensive players, had said no they would be mutinous players against their coach. This is completely ridiculous. Every person, regardless of their profession, is expected to be held accountable for their actions. If that means going as far as to refuse to accept money or every play for a team that has this bounty program in place then so be it. I realize that it would be incredibly difficult to raise issue with your coach about something such as this but each person has to be held accountable and should be punished.

What I take issue with are the specific level of punishments. Vilma in particular was punished too harshly. His fellow athletes are tweeting things such as "suspended for just playing football...wow" but I disagree with this. He was not punished for playing football he was punished for his alleged involvement in the program. Roger Goodell have even said Vilma put up $10,000 of his personal money as part of the program. Gregg Williams, the alleged creator of this bounty program, is suspended indefinitely and Sean Payton, the head coach, is suspended for the entire year. Assistant head coach Joe Vitt was only suspended for  6 games for his involvement.

I find it difficult to believe that a player, non-withstanding that he is the defensive captain, was just as responsible as his head coach for the bounties. I also take offense to the idea that the same player is 3 times more responsible for the program operation than the assistant head coach. Pending if Gregg Williams receives more punishment or not, Vilma and the man who started the entire program could have received the same level of punishment. This is incredibly harsh. Vilma could have fairly been punished with 6-8 games but Roger Goodell had to prove once again that he is The Man.

Finally, Chase Daniels tweeted recently that he was with Vilma when Vilma found out about his suspension. Oh, did I forget to mention that they were watching SportsCenter together, and he saw that he was suspended for the entire season. Really classy move Roger, well done.