NCAA FOOTBALL PREVIEWS

Over the years I base a lot of early NCAA football capping on who has and who doesn't have a lot of returning starters. This is an effective tool for teams first 3 games of the season.Here is what i have come up with for the 2003 seson.

Column A ( teams with 15 or more returning starters )

Duke 18
Va Tech 17
Ohio St 17
Mizzou 17
Arkansas 17
New Mex 16
Maryland 15
North Car 15
Pitt 15
Tex 15
UAB 15
UConn 15
Akron 15
Air Force 15
Col St 15
Ariz St 15
Ore St 15
Auburn 15

Column B ( teams with 10 or fewer returning starters )

Cent Mich 7
Stanford 7
So Car 7
West Va 8
Louisville 8
Kent St 8
West Mich 8
La Laf 8
BC 9
Temple 9
Penn St 9
Cinn 9
TCU 9
Rice 9
Ariz 9
Cal 9
Fla 9
Ga tech 10
Wake 10
Rutgers 10
Mich St 10
Colorado 10
Houston 10
Memphis 10
Tulane 10
Ball St 10
Ohio 10
UNLV 10
Utah 10
Georgia 10
Vandy 10

Early games ( 1st three ) where teams from column A play teams from column B :

8/28 Akron vs Kent St
8/30 Col St vs Col
9/6 Mizou at Ball St
9/6 Pitt vs Kent St
9/6 Col St at Cal
9/6 Aub at Ga tech
9/13 Duke vs Rice
9/13 Pitt vs Ball St
9/13 Purdue at Wake Forest
9/13 UConn vs BC
9/20 Purdue vs Ariz
9/20 Tex at Rice

This will be the major factor in my capping games for the first 3 weeks. I hope these will be of use to you guys and we can all get off to a fast start............FL

FELLA,S I WILL TRY AND TRACK THIS ALL YEAR. GOT THIS FROM A FREIND.

1. Play on a team that has won SU and ATS their previous 2 games both of which were at home: 15-6 ATS 72%

Aug 31 1990 Detroit Lions +2½ @ Cincinnati Bengals Lions 26-24 W
Aug 17 1991 New Orleans Saints +2 @ Indianapolis Colts Colts 34-28 L
Aug 23 1991 San Francisco 49ers -3½ @ Seattle Seahawks 49ers 28-16 W
Aug 22 1992 Phoenix Cardinals +3 @ Seattle Seahawks Seahawks 17-10 L
Aug 24 1992 Minnesota Vikings +3 @ Cleveland Browns Vikings 56-3 W
Aug 25 1994 Cleveland Browns -1½ @ Indianapolis Colts Colts 24-7 L
Aug 26 1994 Seattle Seahawks +8 @ San Francisco 49ers 49ers 13-9 W
Aug 25 1995 Atlanta Falcons +2½ @ Buffalo Bills Bills 20-14 L
Aug 25 1995 Detroit Lions +3½ @ New Orleans Saints Saints 24-10 L
Aug 17 1996 Green Bay Packers +3 @ Baltimore Ravens Packers 17-15 W
Aug 16 1997 New York Jets -3½ @ New York Giants Jets 27-17 W
Aug 16 1997 San Diego Chargers +4½ vs. Tennessee Oilers Chargers 21-7 W
Aug 21 1997 New England Patriots +4 @ Philadelphia Eagles Patriots 28-14 W
Aug 22 1997 Pittsburgh Steelers +6 @ Carolina Panthers Steelers 27-19 W
Aug 22 1998 San Diego Chargers +3 @ Indianapolis Colts Chargers 33-3 W
Aug 25 2000 Denver Broncos -3 @ San Francisco 49ers Broncos 28-24 W
Aug 24 2001 Cleveland Browns +3 @ Washington Redskins Redskins 27-25 W
Aug 31 2001 Minnesota Vikings +3 @ Miami Dolphins Vikings 20-7 W
Aug 31 2001 Green Bay Packers +4½ @ Oakland Raiders Raiders 24-13 L
Aug 23 2002 Tennessee Titans +7 @ Minnesota Vikings Vikings 14-10 W
Aug 24 2002 Atlanta Falcons +3 @ Dallas Cowboys Falcons 21-19 W

This system seems to be successful for teams that are actually out to win their pre-season games. While some teams are playing their games just to scout players, others go out to win. This system is 11-1 ATS 92% since 1996.

2. Play on a team that has lost their last 2 games SU with their last game a blowout loss of 3 or more touchdowns and are now playing on the road. 12-6 ATS 67%

Aug 24 1990 Kansas City Chiefs +4 @ Detroit Lions Lions 35-21 L
Aug 31 1990 Phoenix Cardinals +7½ @ Denver Broncos Broncos 25-14 L
Aug 17 1991 New England Patriots +7½ @ Phoenix Cardinals Cardinals 46-0 L
Aug 23 1992 Pittsburgh Steelers +6 @ Chicago Bears Steelers 28-17 W
Aug 28 1992 Cleveland Browns +1½ @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers Browns 24-3 W
Aug 28 1992 Indianapolis Colts +10 @ Kansas City Chiefs Colts 21-10 W
Aug 29 1992 New England Patriots +7 @ Green Bay Packers Patriots 24-10 W
Aug 13 1994 San Diego Chargers +1 vs. New York Giants Giants 28-20 L
Aug 12 1995 Buffalo Bills +5½ vs. Dallas Cowboys Bills 9-7 W
Aug 23 1996 Carolina Panthers +2 @ New York Giants Panthers 34-7 W
Aug 23 1996 Washington Redskins +5 @ New England Patriots Patriots 27-19 L
Aug 17 1998 New England Patriots -1 vs. Dallas Cowboys Patriots 21-3 W
Sep 2 1999 New Orleans Saints +7½ @ Tennessee Titans Saints 12-11 W
Sep 3 1999 Kansas City Chiefs +2½ @ San Diego Chargers Chiefs 34-27 W
Aug 26 2000 Cleveland Browns +7½ @ Green Bay Packers Packers 34-33 W
Aug 23 2002 Jacksonville Jaguars +4½ @ Chicago Bears Jaguars 24-16 W
Aug 30 2002 Carolina Panthers +2 @ Cleveland Browns Panthers 20-19 W
Aug 30 2002 St Louis Rams -3 @ Kansas City Chiefs Chiefs 23-16 L

Aug 25 1990 Phoenix Cardinals @ Los Angeles Rams -6½ Rams 27-7 W
Aug 25 1990 Washington Redskins @ Cleveland Browns -2 Redskins 31-13 L
Aug 17 1991 Minnesota Vikings @ Cincinnati Bengals -3½ Bengals 27-24 L
Aug 22 1992 Denver Broncos @ Dallas Cowboys -4 Cowboys 17-3 W
Aug 27 1992 Los Angeles Rams @ San Diego Chargers -3½ Chargers 30-19 W
Aug 29 1992 Houston Oilers @ Los Angeles Raiders -1 Raiders 30-26 W
Aug 14 1993 Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Atlanta Falcons -7½ Falcons 20-10 W
Aug 20 1993 Miami Dolphins @ Denver Broncos -2½ Broncos 34-24 W
Aug 21 1993 New York Jets @ New York Giants -2½ Giants 14-13 L
Aug 20 1994 Cincinnati Bengals @ Philadelphia Eagles -5½ Eagles 17-7 W
Aug 25 1994 Los Angeles Rams @ San Diego Chargers -8 Chargers 28-10 W
Aug 12 1995 Minnesota Vikings @ New England Patriots -5 Patriots 21-14 W
Aug 14 1995 Chicago Bears @ Cleveland Browns -3 Browns 55-13 W
Aug 25 1995 Detroit Lions @ New Orleans Saints -3½ Saints 24-10 W
Aug 25 1995 Washington Redskins @ Green Bay Packers -6½ Packers 35-23 W
Aug 9 1996 Washington Redskins @ Detroit Lions -3 Lions 34-25 W
Aug 10 1996 San Diego Chargers @ San Francisco 49ers -5 49ers 16-13 L
Aug 8 1997 Minnesota Vikings @ Buffalo Bills -2½ Bills 19-3 W
Aug 16 1997 New Orleans Saints @ Oakland Raiders -7 Raiders 18-16 L
Aug 22 1998 Detroit Lions @ Cincinnati Bengals -3 Bengals 33-19 W
Aug 28 1998 Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ New Orleans Saints -1 Saints 10-6 W
Aug 21 1999 Dallas Cowboys @ New England Patriots -3½ Patriots 34-14 W
Aug 28 1999 Chicago Bears @ Cleveland Browns -1 Browns 35-24 W
Aug 12 2000 Seattle Seahawks @ Arizona Cardinals -1 Cardinals 21-3 W
Aug 24 2000 Carolina Panthers @ New England Patriots -4½ Patriots 29-21 W
Aug 31 2001 New York Giants @ Baltimore Ravens -3 Ravens 38-9 W
Aug 16 2002 Minnesota Vikings @ Buffalo Bills -3 Vikings 24-21 L
Aug 16 2002 Seattle Seahawks @ San Diego Chargers -5 Chargers 24-14 W
Aug 17 2002 Dallas Cowboys @ Carolina Panthers -1½ Cowboys 19-16 L
Aug 22 2002 San Diego Chargers @ St Louis Rams -4½ Chargers 31-10 L
Aug 29 2002 Atlanta Falcons @ Cincinnati Bengals -3½ Falcons 27-14 L
Aug 29 2002 Buffalo Bills @ Detroit Lions -3½

The theory of this system is that linesmakers over adjust their lines based on the recent losses. Because of those losses, the road team will be getting some value points. This system is 12-3 ATS 80% since 1992.

3. Play on a team coming off a SU home loss where they scored at least 10 points and are now a home favorite. 23-9 ATS 72%

Aug 25 1990 Phoenix Cardinals @ Los Angeles Rams -6½ Rams 27-7 W
Aug 25 1990 Washington Redskins @ Cleveland Browns -2 Redskins 31-13 L
Aug 17 1991 Minnesota Vikings @ Cincinnati Bengals -3½ Bengals 27-24 L
Aug 22 1992 Denver Broncos @ Dallas Cowboys -4 Cowboys 17-3 W
Aug 27 1992 Los Angeles Rams @ San Diego Chargers -3½ Chargers 30-19 W
Aug 29 1992 Houston Oilers @ Los Angeles Raiders -1 Raiders 30-26 W
Aug 14 1993 Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Atlanta Falcons -7½ Falcons 20-10 W
Aug 20 1993 Miami Dolphins @ Denver Broncos -2½ Broncos 34-24 W
Aug 21 1993 New York Jets @ New York Giants -2½ Giants 14-13 L
Aug 20 1994 Cincinnati Bengals @ Philadelphia Eagles -5½ Eagles 17-7 W
Aug 25 1994 Los Angeles Rams @ San Diego Chargers -8 Chargers 28-10 W
Aug 12 1995 Minnesota Vikings @ New England Patriots -5 Patriots 21-14 W
Aug 14 1995 Chicago Bears @ Cleveland Browns -3 Browns 55-13 W
Aug 25 1995 Detroit Lions @ New Orleans Saints -3½ Saints 24-10 W
Aug 25 1995 Washington Redskins @ Green Bay Packers -6½ Packers 35-23 W
Aug 9 1996 Washington Redskins @ Detroit Lions -3 Lions 34-25 W
Aug 10 1996 San Diego Chargers @ San Francisco 49ers -5 49ers 16-13 L
Aug 8 1997 Minnesota Vikings @ Buffalo Bills -2½ Bills 19-3 W
Aug 16 1997 New Orleans Saints @ Oakland Raiders -7 Raiders 18-16 L
Aug 22 1998 Detroit Lions @ Cincinnati Bengals -3 Bengals 33-19 W
Aug 28 1998 Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ New Orleans Saints -1 Saints 10-6 W
Aug 21 1999 Dallas Cowboys @ New England Patriots -3½ Patriots 34-14 W
Aug 28 1999 Chicago Bears @ Cleveland Browns -1 Browns 35-24 W
Aug 12 2000 Seattle Seahawks @ Arizona Cardinals -1 Cardinals 21-3 W
Aug 24 2000 Carolina Panthers @ New England Patriots -4½ Patriots 29-21 W
Aug 31 2001 New York Giants @ Baltimore Ravens -3 Ravens 38-9 W
Aug 16 2002 Minnesota Vikings @ Buffalo Bills -3 Vikings 24-21 L
Aug 16 2002 Seattle Seahawks @ San Diego Chargers -5 Chargers 24-14 W
Aug 17 2002 Dallas Cowboys @ Carolina Panthers -1½ Cowboys 19-16 L
Aug 22 2002 San Diego Chargers @ St Louis Rams -4½ Chargers 31-10 L
Aug 29 2002 Atlanta Falcons @ Cincinnati Bengals -3½ Falcons 27-14 L
Aug 29 2002 Buffalo Bills @ Detroit Lions -3½ Lions 20-13 W

A team that lost at home but was able to put points on the board (scoring more than 10 points is a lot in some cases) is a good bet the following week since they must be considered a good team in the eyes of the linesmakers to be favored after a home loss. Plus, with their last loss, the line should show some value. This system took a hit last season going 2-4 ATS but we see it making a recovery this year.

4. Play against a team that is favored by more than 4 points at home in their second game of the season. 23-11-1 ATS 68%

Aug 18 1990 San Diego Chargers @ Los Angeles Rams -4½ Chargers 30-27 W
Aug 15 1992 Cleveland Browns @ New York Giants -6 Giants 16-7 L
Aug 17 1992 Detroit Lions @ Buffalo Bills -6 Bills 30-24 P
Aug 17 1992 Pittsburgh Steelers @ New Orleans Saints -5 Saints 26-0 L
Aug 12 1993 Buffalo Bills @ Kansas City Chiefs -7 Bills 30-7 W
Aug 14 1993 Cincinnati Bengals @ Indianapolis Colts -4½ Bengals 24-7 W
Aug 14 1993 Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Atlanta Falcons -7½ Falcons 20-10 L
Aug 13 1994 Chicago Bears @ Arizona Cardinals -5½ Bears 16-0 W
Aug 10 1995 Jacksonville Jaguars @ Detroit Lions -6½ Lions 19-3 L
Aug 12 1995 St Louis Rams @ Oakland Raiders -7 Raiders 27-22 W
Aug 12 1995 Minnesota Vikings @ New England Patriots -5 Patriots 21-14 L
Aug 13 1995 Green Bay Packers @ Pittsburgh Steelers -6 Packers 36-13 W
Aug 8 1996 New York Jets @ Philadelphia Eagles -4½ Eagles 30-16 L
Aug 8 1996 Buffalo Bills @ Minnesota Vikings -5 Bills 35-12 W
Aug 10 1996 San Diego Chargers @ San Francisco 49ers -5 49ers 16-13 W
Aug 9 1997 Denver Broncos @ Carolina Panthers -7 Broncos 23-13 W
Aug 9 1997 Seattle Seahawks @ San Francisco 49ers -6 49ers 21-17 W
Aug 14 1998 Carolina Panthers @ Buffalo Bills -5½ Panthers 12-7 W
Aug 14 1998 New York Giants @ Jacksonville Jaguars -6 Jaguars 24-10 L
Aug 14 1998 New Orleans Saints @ Denver Broncos -7½ Broncos 17-10 W
Aug 14 1998 Chicago Bears @ Arizona Cardinals -6½ Cardinals 27-24 W
Aug 15 1998 Baltimore Ravens @ New York Jets -5½ Ravens 33-0 W
Aug 17 1998 Indianapolis Colts @ Cincinnati Bengals -4½ Colts 30-27 W
Aug 20 1999 Philadelphia Eagles @ New York Jets -8 Jets 10-9 W
Aug 21 1999 Baltimore Ravens @ Atlanta Falcons -4½ Ravens 19-6 W
Aug 11 2000 New England Patriots @ Washington Redskins -6 Redskins 30-20 L
Aug 11 2000 New York Giants @ Jacksonville Jaguars -6 Jaguars 16-13 W
Aug 12 2000 Cleveland Browns @ Chicago Bears -5 Bears 19-6 L
Aug 13 2000 San Francisco 49ers @ Kansas City Chiefs -5½ 49ers 33-10 W
Aug 18 2001 Dallas Cowboys @ New Orleans Saints -7½ Saints 16-10 W
Aug 18 2001 Arizona Cardinals @ Seattle Seahawks -6½ Cardinals 16-13 W
Aug 16 2002 Chicago Bears @ St Louis Rams -6 Bears 19-17 W
Aug 16 2002 Seattle Seahawks @ San Diego Chargers -5 Chargers 24-14 L
Aug 17 2002 Houston Texans @ Kansas City Chiefs -6 Chiefs 19-9 L
Aug 19 2002 San Francisco 49ers @ Denver Broncos -6 49ers 12-7 W

The one explanation of this system is that the home team is overpriced this early in the pre-season, thus there is good value in the dogs. This system is 17-6 ATS 74% since 1996.

CUT AND PASTE INFO

Coaching changes can have an immediate impact on teams while for others, it may take time for the new coach to make his mark. Here is our take on the new coaches for 2003 and whether or not you will see an immediate change or the same old stuff from 2002.

Alabama – Mike Shula replacing Mike Price replacing Dennis Franchione

This was by far the most talked about coaching carousel in the off-season as Franchione decided to head back to the state of Texas after just two seasons guiding the Tide. Alabama thought they had their man with Mike Price until the whole sex scandal story came out and he was immediately let go and replaced by Mike Shula. Shula is a former Alabama quarterback and seems like a good choice to lead this team but the big question is why he wasn’t a candidate until after Price was let go? He is the youngest coach ever hired at Alabama and will be the youngest coach in the SEC entering this season. His youth will allow him to be a good motivator but he has no head coaching experience and that will definitely hurt. He has plenty of NFL coaching experience as he landed his first job in 1988 and most notably spent 4 years in Tampa Bay as their offensive coordinator. The problem was that offense was atrocious so he will need to rely on Tide offensive coordinator Dave Radar to g! et the job done. Five years from now, this will look like a very good decision but with this team entering a second year of NCAA probation, it will be a transition year for the Tide and they will not come close to matching their 10 wins from a season ago.

Ball St. – Brady Hoke replacing Bill Lynch

This looks like a perfect fit for the Cardinals who are coming off a 6-6 season in 2002. Lynch was fired as Ball State's football coach after producing only two winning seasons in his eight years at the school. Hoke is a former All-MAC football player at Ball St. and will be coming back to his alma mater after spending the last 8 seasons at Michigan. He spent the 2002 season as the associate head coach and defensive line coach and will bring a great deal of big school experience to the Cardinals. A .500 season is something a lot of teams would kill for but it wasn’t good enough for Lynch to keep his job. Hoke will have his hands full in his first season as the Cardinals welcome rising Missouri and have three rough MAC visitors in Miami, Toledo and Bowling Green. He has to replace some good talent in key positions and while the move looks to be the right one, it might be a rough rookie season for Hoke in his return to Muncie.

Baylor – Guy Morriss replacing Kevin Steele

The coaching change for the Bears can only be a positive. Steele did a horrific job at Baylor in his 4 seasons as he compiled a 9-36 record and just one conference victory. Morriss resigned at Kentucky after six seasons, the final two as head coach. He is a native Texan and should bring excitement to this program that seemed to quit at certain times for their old coach. Morriss is very respected and should be able to help the Bears recruiting right away, bringing in future success to this perennial Big 12 basement team. The problem is that for now, he will be coaching Steele recruits and must look for ways to move this team in the right direction this season which might be easier said than done. After their spring sessions, Morriss knew what lies ahead. “It took us some time this spring just to get our kids in good enough shape so that we can start getting some work out of them. I think any time there is a transition, like a new staff, and the length that it took, som! e of the kids fell through the cracks. We had to get after them pretty hard this spring just to get them back on track in the weight room, conditioning and so forth, but as far as next year goes, it's going to be an interesting year. We aren't blessed with a lot of depth, our numbers are down right now, and we are a little bit out of balance, but again we knew those things coming in here. We are just going to try to be as competitive as we can be, play as hard as can for as long as we can and kind of see what happens.” Even he knows the challenge will be difficult but at least they are moving forward. 2003 doesn’t look to be good, but it can’t get much worse.

Bowling Green – Gregg Brandon replacing Urban Meyer

Brandon will have some tough shoes to fill in taking over for the very popular Meyer who left the Falcons to take the head coaching job at Utah. Meyer took over a team that had endured six straight losing seasons. In Meyer's first two seasons, the Falcons went 17-6 overall, including an 11-5 mark in the Mid-American Conference. He left the program in tremendous shape and it will be up to Brandon to keep the success going, which shouldn’t be a problem at all. Brandon has more than 22 years of coaching experience at the Division I level, including the last two years at Bowling Green where he has served as assistant head coach and directed the Falcons' record-setting offensive attack. The Falcons had trouble scoring at all before Brandon arrived, and last year they led the nation in that department for the first half of the season, with essentially the same players. The players are behind Brandon and he was hands down the players’ choice as their new coach. "We were unite! d in our support for coach Brandon," senior quarterback Josh Harris said, "and we let everyone here know that. We felt like he had done a lot of good things with the offense, and we wanted to see that continue." This was definitely the best decision the athletic department could have made and the Falcons won’t miss a beat in 2003.

East Carolina – John Thompson replacing Steve Logan

East Carolina will have a different face on the sidelines for the first time in 11 seasons. The Pirates posted a 4-8 mark in 2002 and have won only four of their past 15 games dating back to 2001. East Carolina finished tied for fifth (4-4) in Conference USA this past season, its lowest finish in six years of competition in the league after three straight second-place showings. Logan is the all-time leader in coaching wins but the university needed to go in a different direction and get a fresh look to the program. Enter John Thompson, one of the most highly regarded defensive coaches in the country. His 21-year collegiate coaching career includes 19 seasons as a defensive coordinator with stops at four schools in the Southeastern Conference - Florida, Alabama, Arkansas, and LSU. He has guided one of the nation's top 25 defensive units in four of the past six years. But Thompson isn’t a stranger to Conference USA. He was the mastermind behind the dominant Southern Mis! s defense of the mid-1990s as he took over the position of defensive coordinator for the Golden Eagles in 1992, was given the additional title of assistant head coach in 1993, and remained with that program until 1998. Along the way, Southern Miss won or shared two Conference USA titles, ranked among the top 25 nationally in scoring defense twice, and made two bowl appearances. The Pirates were underachievers the last couple season under Logan and this change should bring East Carolina back into the national spotlight right away.

Houston – Art Briles replacing Dana Dimel

Dimel was a player favorite at Houston but a change had to be made since the program wasn’t improving as quickly as the university had hoped. There was no quit in the Cougars who finished last season with a convincing 27-10 win over Louisville, 6 days after Dimel was told he was fired but decided he wanted to coach his players one last time. He finished 8-26 in three years at Houston, including an 0-11 record in 2001 - the only winless campaign in the program's history. Briles becomes the first-ever former UH player to lead the Cougar football program, something that will play an important role this season in getting his players on his side. Briles spent the last three years as the running backs coach at Texas Tech and like Guy Morriss of Baylor, he is very well respected around the high school ranks and should improve their recruiting immediately. Unfortunately, Houston has had their problems in recent years and a turn around won’t happen in one season. This is a move! for the future more than anything and improving on their 5 wins from a year ago might be a stretch. Developing a foundation is the first step and the university is hoping Briles can do that. But this should be a fun team to watch as Briles brings in a wide-open, air it out offensive attack, which could keep the Cougars competitive in some games if their defense can hold up.

Kentucky – Rich Brooks replacing Guy Morriss

Morriss stepped down to head back to his home state of Texas to take over the struggling Baylor program. Rich Brooks comes in with a wealth of experience but hasn’t coached in a few years since leaving the Atlanta Falcons in 2000. Brooks has 27 years of coaching experience on the collegiate level, including a groundbreaking 18-year term as head coach at Oregon, and is a 10-year NFL coaching veteran. His tenure at Oregon shows his commitment to a program, something the Wildcats are in desperate need of. Morriss was only around for 2 seasons and the program has been in the middle of NCAA infractions and probation the past few years so a veteran like Brooks could turn them around, but not overnight. His best move was the hiring of ex-Utah coach Ron McBride, who joins the staff as an assistant coach in charge of linebackers. Utah has been known for their tough defense and McBride should bring that talent to Kentucky, who will need a push right away as they return only 3 sta! rters to their defense with all 4 linebackers being new. It might take some time for the defense to get it together but Brooks has the luxury of a solid offense that loses just 4 players including only 1 offensive lineman. It’s a whole new start for Kentucky, which can only bring good things and Brooks can definitely be the right man to turn things around.

Louisiana-Monroe – Charlie Weatherbie replacing Bobby Keasler (Mike Collins)

Keasler resigned last season and it was Mike Collins who stepped in and did a fantastic job in running the team the remainder of the season even though the wins didn’t come their way. Just keeping their heads in the game after their coach quits halfway through the season is a huge accomplishment in itself. He was given the permanent job for 2003 but unfortunately, Collins got hit with a DUI the night before the spring game and was fired. In steps Charlie Weatherbie who has had great success in turning around struggling programs (Utah St. and Navy). He is considered a players coach and is very well respected but knows that it will be an uphill battle for the Indians. He inherits a very young team but one that has a lot of talent. This team has a legitimate shot in coming years as long as they buy into the system but 2003 isn’t the year. This is a great move for the program to get a big name coach that can attract recruits and make the fans and people around the univers! ity believe. And who knows, they could surprise this season but with trips to LSU, Mississippi and Auburn, it’s not likely. Surpassing their 3 wins from last season is doable but it won’t be much more than 1 game most likely.

Tough skeds, weak profits by Jon Campbell

Before you even look at the lines for individual college football games as they slowly emerge, stop and think about one important ingredient you might be overlooking: scheduling.

Scheduling is so important to any football team's success, yet it's a simple factor often bypassed when you're perched upon the throne with a 160 preview mag that mostly measures a team's talent level.

Keep in mind teams set their schedules for specific reasons with particular goals in mind. Although many 'cappers may look hard at a team's schedule in a micro sense - that is who they play or have played in the short term they fail to see the big picture. Square bettors will often look at who a team is playing the week of a game, and the week after that, but they might fail to look at a club's entire season and how it affects its play.

Take Florida State this year for example. FSU is clearly looking to regain some respect amongst the top national contenders this year with a suicidal non-conference schedule that pits the Seminoles against Colorado, Miami, Notre Dame and Florida.

Florida State plummeted from a season-high ranking of 12th in Week 8 last campaign, to a dismal 23rd by the final week of the season. Reports say coach Bobby Bowden is not his usual happy-go-lucky self following his son's financial scandal that cost him a heap of dough and a host of discipline problems within his ranks last year. But he could be even crankier by the time he's finished going through the non-conference gauntlet he's laid out for himself.

That's not to say you should run out and start fading Florida State like a Tiger Woods two iron shot, just don't expect the team to sail through its non-SEC opponents without finding a little of the ATS rough.

Alabama is another team that isn't really doing itself any favors by squaring off against a veteran-laden South Florida team and the Sugar Bowl favorite Oklahoma Sooners in its first two games. The Crimson Tide then close out the season with a lengthy road trip to Hawaii, which is a game that follows two tough tilts against LSU (at home) and Auburn (on the road). Three of Bama's last four outings are on the road, which is just one more obstacle the team must overcome following the firing of head coach Mike Price after he couldn't stay out of the nudie bars.

The point of all this is, it doesn't pay to ride a pile of teams with tough schedules. You'll likely end up crashing headfirst into an empty betting account.

Last season, the teams that finished in the top 12 in the final BCS strength of schedule standings earned a marginal 76-70-1 ATS record (against the spread) not including bowl games. In 2001, the top 12 teams in the same standings went 68-75 ATS. That puts the teams with the toughest dozen schedules at 144-145-1 over the last two years. In simple accounting terms, you'd be kissing your cash good-bye.

Only 11 of those 24 teams managed to finish above the water line in the ATS column, and four of those teams finished only one game above the .500 mark against the number. Cal went a costly 3-8 ATS in 2001 with the toughest schedule in the land, and if you don't believe it, the Golden Bears also posted a 1-10 SU record (straight up) as reassurance.

The most profitable of those 24 teams was last year's Georgia Bulldogs, who unexpectedly stormed straight to the SEC Championship. The 'Dogs collected a tidy ransom at 9-3 ATS, but that's far from the norm.

If you're going to play one team all season, you're better off avoiding the teams with the tough schedules the same way you'd avoid a friend with a bad cold. You can still play the high-profile teams, you're just better off looking at the ones that are giving themselves a bit of a break through non-conference play.

Maryland is one team that's dodged the outer-divisional bullet over the last two seasons, despite its uprising as a club to be reckoned with. The Terps are 18-5 ATS over the past two seasons, while posting a 20-4 SU mark. Once again this year they'll coast through non-conference play against the likes of Northern Illinois, The Citadel, and Eastern Michigan. Maryland returns 15 starters this term - nine on defense - and may not be able to outrun oddsmakers any more.

But the trick is to look for this year's Maryland. The tougher a top team's schedule is, the sharper the lines will be. Avoid being slashed by focusing on quality squads that face less-than marquee opponents.

BIG EAST CONFERENCE

BOSTON COLLEGE

HEAD COACH: TOM O’BRIEN

The Eagles begin the 2003 campaign with proven defense, questions at QB and O-Line Thirty-eight letter winners (11 offense, 24 defense, three special teams) return from an Eagle team that finished with a 9-4 record after an impressive 51-25 victory over Toledo in the Motor City Bowl in Detroit. The Eagles will enter the 2003 season in the hunt for an unprecedented fifth straight bowl bid and fourth consecutive bowl win. Since his arrival at Boston College in 1996, Coach Tom O’Brien has transformed a struggling program into one that is a consistent winner. O’Brien has coached a running back who has rushed for 1,000-plus yards five seasons in a row; he led last year’s senior class to 32 wins over four years, tying the 1981-84 Eagles for the most wins in a four-year period in the past 60 years of BC football; he has signed recruiting classes regarded among the best in the nation; and he has helped maintain Boston College’s tradition of producing winners in the classroom as well.

Here’s a look at the 2003 squad, position-by-position: Offense Offensive Line No doubt about it – this could be O’Brien’s primary area of concern heading into the spring campaign. Departed tackles Leo Bell and Marc Parenteau, along with center Dan Koppen, leave some big shoes to fill along the line. The Eagles do return both starters at the guard positions in Chris Snee and Augie Hoffmann, and sophomore Jeremy Trueblood did see big-game experience in 2002 as a redshirt freshman, along with Pat Ross. O’Brien plans to move junior Anthony Crosson and seniors Justin Hinds and Keith Leavitt back to the offensive side of the ball to help shore up the line and will look to sophomore Chris Hathy and redshirt freshmen Josh Beekman, Shadu Moore and James Marten to have a strong spring. “Right now, it’s a little unsettled,” O’Brien says. “But hopefully by the end of spring, we can come up with a two-deep we’re comfortable with.” Don Horton, the Eagles’ former tight ends coach, will take over the offensive line coaching responsibilities following the departure of Dave Magazu to the NFL’s Carolina Panthers. Tight End The Eagles are in good shape at this position with the return of 2002 starter Sean Ryan, who was named to the All-BIG EAST second team following a stellar junior campaign. Ryan will be backed up by junior David Kashetta, who saw significant action at tight end last season as one of Ryan’s backups. Sophomore Chris Miller, who played a key role with the scout team last year, also will vie for playing time at tight end in 2003. Jim Bridge, offensive line coach last season at Eastern Michigan University and a former offensive line assistant at The Ohio State University, will coach BC’s tight ends, replacing Horton. Quarterback Easily the most high-profile position on any team, this will be, no doubt, the hottest topic of discussion among BC fans heading into the 2003 season. Veteran QB Brian St. Pierre, who ended his career third on the Boston College all-time passing list, has graduated, and his backup, junior Quinton Porter, saw action in only five games last season. But O’Brien expresses confidence in Porter heading into spring practice. “Quinton will get most of the reps in the spring,” O’Brien says. “I think he’s ready to step up to the plate and play well for us.” O’Brien also will take a look at redshirt freshmen Karim El Nokali and walk-on Dan Berglund.

Running Back At ease - the position that had fans wringing their hands heading into the 2002 season could have them jumping for joy in the fall. Tailback Derrick Knight heads into his senior year after gaining 1,432 yards on 259 carries last season and picking up second team All-BIG EAST honors. Knight was also BC’s third-leading receiver on the season after grabbing 37 catches for 372 yards and two touchdowns. While Knight seems to have a solid grip on the starting tailback job, he will be pushed by returning senior Horace Dodd, who actually got the starting nod for the first two games of last season and finished the year on a strong note, gaining 33 yards with a touchdown in the Motor City Bowl. Redshirt freshman Jeff Ross and walk-on Everett Lee also will have an opportunity to compete for playing time at tailback. “I look for Derrick to improve upon last year,” O’Brien says, “and we look for Horace to have a strong spring, also, to give us a solid backup at tailback.” Senior Greg Toal, who started the final 10 games of last season, gives O’Brien a strong starter at the fullback position, while sophomore Haven Perkins has recovered from surgery and hopes to make his presence known in spring drills.

Wide Receiver - One would think this would be an area of concern with the departure of leading receiver Keith Hemmings (41 catches, 559 yards) and fellow starter Jamal Burke (33 catches, 498 yards). Not so fast. O’Brien is confident juniors Grant Adams and Joel Hazard are up for the task. Indeed, both showed flashes of good things to come at the Motor City Bowl – Adams led all BC receivers with five catches for 92 yards and two touchdowns, while Hazard caught five passes for 66 yards and one touchdown in that game. “We really liked the way Adams and Hazard played in the bowl game,” O’Brien says. “They will start out as our top two wide receivers, but then we have four freshmen on campus (Taylor Sele, Jason Lilly, Tony Gonzalez and Kevin Challenger) who will get a strong look.”

Defense -Defensive Line The area weakened last season by season-ending injuries to Doug Goodwin and Antonio Garay could be the strength of the 2003 team. Although he will sit out spring drills, left tackle Goodwin is expected to be back at full strength in time to reclaim a starting job in the fall. Senior Tom Martin brings experience to the line after starting all 13 games last season. Junior Tim Bulman, who was thrust into a starting role midway through last season when Goodwin was injured, returns to challenge again for a starting role, along with Al Washington, who saw action last year as a true freshman. Senior Leonard Bennett also will get a look during spring drills. Although starting defensive end Derric Rossy is gone, his counterpart, junior Phil Mettling returns. Mettling was another player thrust into the limelight in 2002 as he replaced the injured Antonio Garay and started the last eight games of the season. Standout sophomore Mathias Kiwanuka returns, along with sophomore Jim Unis, who was called into action last season as a true freshman. Junior Myran Hunter and redshirt freshmen Jake Ottolini and Robert Ziminski also are on the radar screen for spring drills. Linebacker “Our main concern on defense,” O’Brien says, “is to find a middle linebacker.” Indeed, the key to this position is finding a replacement for departed starting middle linebacker Vinny Ciurciu. O’Brien will look at sophomores Ray Henderson, who played a key backup role in 2002, and Ricky Brown, who saw action as a true freshman, to step into Ciurciu’s role. Starters Josh Ott and Brian Flores return to lay claim to the other two starting linebacker positions. Ott started all 13 games last season, was BC’s leading tackler, and was named national defensive Player of the Week after his performance against Notre Dame, which included a 71-yard interception return for a touchdown. Fellow senior Flores earned BIG EAST Player of the Week honors last season for his play vs. Central Michigan. Senior Kevin Kiley, sophomores Jon Misiewicz and Patrick McShane and redshirt freshmen Jeff Burns also will get a look in spring drills.

Defensive Backs The Eagles lose three starters in safeties Doug Bessette and Ralph Parent and corner Trevor White, but a strong spring practice could enable some talented young players to step to the plate. Peter Shean, who started at corner for the first two games of 2002 before being sidelined with a torn anterior cruciate ligament, will sit out spring drills but is expected to return to the lineup in the fall. Sophomore Larry Lester returns as a veteran after being thrust into Shean’s starting position early last season as a redshirt freshman. Sophomore talent Will Blackmon, who showed flashes of brilliance as a true freshman, and fellow sophomore Jazzmen Williams return to provide depth at this position. Senior Paul Cook, who started one game at safety in 2002, and talented reserve T.J. Stancil are the frontrunners at the safety spots, while O’Brien will be watching sophomore Nathanael Hasselbeck and redshirt freshman Larry Anam at the position as well. Kevin Lempa, defensive coordinator at Hawaii since 2000 and a former member of the BC coaching staff, will coach the Eagles’ defensive backfield, replacing Bob Shoop, who resigned in January to become the head football coach at Columbia University. Specialists Senior Sandro Sciortino is a proven place-kicker for the Eagles. Sciortino handled all kickoff, PAT and field goal duties for the Eagles in 2002 and set a Boston College single-season record for field goals made (23). O’Brien will call on walk-on Rob Leuffen to replace four-year starter Kevin McMyler.

MIAMI-FLORIDA

HEAD COACH: LARRY COKER

After a three-year run in which they won 35 of 37 games, captured one national championship and three BIG EAST Conference titles and made two appearances in the Bowl Championship Series Title Game, the Miami Hurricanes have several challenges to face this spring in their quest to maintain a tradition of excellence and dominance established over the last 20 seasons. The Hurricanes must replace 12 starters (5 offense, 5 defense, 2 specialists) from a year ago and have undergone an al-most complete makeover from their starting unit of two years ago. Only two players – linebackers Jonathan Vilma and D.J. Williams – remain as starters from the 2001 national champions. But the “generational change” that has taken place over the last two seasons hasn’t lowered the expectations of the players, the coaching staff or the fans. The Hurricanes fully expect to compete for another BIG EAST title and make another run at national contention this season as 47 lettermen return from the squad that went 12-1 in 2002 and narrowly missed a second consecutive national championship. Overall, 13 starters (6 offense, 6 defense, 1 specialist) re-turn for Miami including the team’s leading pass catcher, top five tacklers, leading blocker, all four defensive backs, and leading return men. Miami completed its first ever back-to-back 12-win seasons in 2001 and 2002 and head coach Larry Coker mans the helm of a program that is one of only two in the nation (along with Texas) to have constructed five consecutive nine (or more) win seasons. Miami has finished ranked among the top two each of the last three seasons, but this group of Hurricanes is not satisfied. The bar of expectations remains high at Miami and this team wants to raise it even higher.

QUARTERBACK The Hurricanes enter the spring of 2003 looking to replace one of college football’s supreme winners and the most prolific passer in Miami history in Ken Dorsey. Despite the fact that the Hurricanes have a quartet of talented passers ready to compete for the starting job, Miami faces the prospect of a starting quarterback this fall that will be making his first stop in a UM uniform for the first time since Larry Coker took over the program in 2001. Two players return with extensive playing experience – juniors Derrick Crudup and Brock Berlin – but only one (Crudup) has significant playing time in the Miami system. Crudup is entering his fourth year working with the Miami offense and has played in 16 games over the last two seasons. An athletic player with a strong arm, Crudup served as Dorsey’s primary backup the last two seasons after redshirting in 2000. Crudup has completed 25 of 48 passes for 326 yards and three touchdowns without throwing an interception at Miami. Fellow junior Brock Berlin is a heralded transfer from the University of Florida who sat out the 2002 season per NCAA transfer rules. Berlin went through spring practice in 2002 and is in his fourth spring practice of college ball. The Shreveport, La., native played in 12 games for the Gators in 2000 and 2001, completing 53 of 87 passes for 653 yards and 11 touchdowns with two interceptions. Berlin started his final game at Florida, leading the Gators for much of their victory over Maryland in the 2002 Orange Bowl following the 2001 regular season. Redshirt freshman Marc Guillon appears to have the right bloodlines for the job, hailing from the same high school that produced Dorsey (Orinda High School in Miramonte, Calif.). Guillon played once last year before settling for a medical redshirt in 2001, completing three of five passes for 53 yards and a touchdown without an interception against Florida A&M. True freshman Kyle Wright enrolled early at UM in January. A talented passer, Wright was considered by many to be the nation’s top high school signal caller in 2002.

RECEIVERS The player who wins the quarterbacking derby will be able to rely on a receivers corps that combines some veteran experience with exciting young talent. Several young players will be looking to make the most of their chance for a starting job this spring as there is an opportunity for work at both split end and flanker. The loss of split end Andre Johnson to the NFL a year early was a blow, but not an unexpected one, for the Hurricanes. At flanker, senior Kevin Beard will miss the spring while recovering from a knee injury suffered in late November. That leaves senior Jason Geathers as the leading veteran returnee at split end with sophomore Roscoe Parrish the leading returnee at flanker. Geathers spent much of 2002 at tailback, but moved back to split end after Beard’s injury. Geathers is no stranger to the position, having spent the 2000 and 2001 seasons there and he had seven catches for 99 yards with two touchdowns in 2002. Geathers has 16 catches for 211 yards and three scores in his career. Joining Geathers at split end will be sophomore Akieem Jolla, who caught five passes for 96 yards and one touchdown last season. Ryan Moore is a gifted talent at split end who could be ready to make an impact in his redshirt freshman season. While Parrish leads the way at flanker, the Hurricanes have no shortage of talent there this spring while awaiting Beard’s return this fall (he had 23 catches for 262 yards and four touchdowns last year to rank fourth in receptions). Parrish began to establish himself as a big-play threat late in the season, making several important catches after Beard’s injury. Parrish ended 2002 with 19 catches for 340 yards and two touchdowns. True freshman Darnell Jenkins will make a much-anticipated debut in orange and green this spring while sophomore Sinorice Moss is expected to miss the spring after offseason ankle surgery. Moss was a special teams regular who also caught three passes last year.

TIGHT ENDS Perhaps the position that will provide the greatest comfort to UM’s new quarterback will be tight end. Junior Kellen Winslow returns to the starting position after posting the most productive pass catching season ever by a Miami tight end in 2002. Winslow, a first team All-America selection by CNNSI.com in 2002, caught a team-high 57 passes for 726 yards and eight touchdowns last season. He capped the year with a record performance in the Fiesta Bowl against Ohio State with 11 catches for 122 yards and a touchdown. A finalist for the John Mackey Award (nation’s top tight end) in 2002, Winslow is college football’s undisputed top returning tight end. But Miami’s talent pool at tight end doesn’t stop with Winslow. Joining the Hurricanes this spring is Kevin Everett, who starred the last two years at Kilgore (Texas) Junior College after originally signing with UM in 2001. Everett has the size, speed and agility to give Miami a pair of out-standing athletes at the position. Sophomore Brandon Sebald returns for his third season in the Miami system after redshirting in 2001 and playing sparingly in 2002. He has one career catch, a 14-yarder against Connecticut in 2002. Redshirt freshman Curtis Justus continues to learn the Miami system and will be competing for playing time this spring, along with Sebald. Winslow’s primary backup, sophomore Eric Winston, has moved from tight end to the offensive line.

RUNNING BACKS For the third straight season, Miami needs to replace its starting tailback. In 2001, the Hurricanes replaced former starter James Jackson with future NFL first round draft pick Clinton Portis (the 2002 NFL Rookie of the Year). In 2002, Miami replaced Portis with Willis McGahee, who shattered every Miami single- season rushing and all-purpose yardage record in his only season as the starter. One of this spring’s most anticipated competitions will be the battle for the starting job at tailback between fifth-year senior Jarrett Payton and third-year sophomore Frank Gore. Payton has experience on his side, having played in 27 games during his UM career including 12 games last season as a reserve tailback. Payton rushed for 223 yards (4.5 avg.) last season and has 511 yards (4.4 avg.) and three touchdowns in his Miami career. Gore was the touted star of the future heading into 2002 after a dazzling 2001 campaign in which he averaged a whopping 9.1 yards per carry with 562 yards on 62 carries and five touchdowns. Payton and Gore are the only scholarship tailbacks on the roster this spring. Miami will welcome freshman recruit Tyrone Moss to join the rotation this fall. There is plenty of experience returning at fullback as the Hurricanes welcome back incumbent sophomore starter Quadtrine Hilland top reserves junior Kyle Cobia and senior Talib Humphrey. Undersized for a fullback at 6-2, 213, Hill showed surprising blocking skill along with the ability to be a dependable receiver as he caught 14 passes for 270 yards (19.3 avg.) but will be looking for more touches on the ground after carrying only six times for 16 yards last season. Cobia is a more traditional fullback whose blocking in short yardage situations has been vital. But Cobia will miss the spring following surgery to repair a shoulder. Humphrey played extensively as a reserve last year and will be looking to expand his role this spring.

OFFENSIVE LINE The Miami offensive line has produced at least one first-team All-American each of the last four seasons. Miami lost three of five starters from 2001 (LT Bryant McKinnie, RT Joaquin Gonzalez and RG Martin Bibla) and loses two more starters from 2002 (C Brett Romberg and LG Sherko Haji-Rasouli). Romberg and Haji-Rasouli combined for 61 starts in their careers at Miami. Three starters return who started all 13 games in 2002 – senior tackle Vernon Carey, senior tackle Carlos Joseph and junior guard Chris Myers. But line coach Art Kehoe has made it clear that no one’s starting job is safe. Carey could be set up for a monster year in his senior campaign after a dominating performance in 2002 in which he led the team in pancake blocks and metrorails”. Joseph and Carey have the ability to be outstanding tackles while Myers could be the star of the future at guard. All three players were vital members of a unit that showed the ability to be a punishing run blocking unit while allowing just 11 sacks by the starters last sea-son. Two key starting jobs are open at center and left guard. Junior Joel Rodriguez appears primed to step in at Romberg’s center spot after three seasons of apprenticeship while veteran senior guard Joe McGrath is the most experienced returnee vying for the job at left guard. A group of talented younger players will battle for playing time and starting jobs, as well. Sophomores Tony Tella and Rashad Butler will be in the mix at tackle while sophomore Robert Bergman, and redshirt freshman Alex Pou will get a look at guard. The most intriguing position change of the spring could be former tight end Eric Winston’s move to the line. The sophomore, who has bulked up to 290 pounds over the offseason, will begin at tackle but could play either guard or tackle this season. Also, look for true freshman Derrick Morse to make his presence felt at tackle this spring after enrolling in time for the spring semester.

DEFENSIVE LINE On paper, at least, the Hurricanes appear decimated along the defensive front. Six key players from 2002, including all four regular starters, have departed leaving Miami with crucial work to do in the defensive front. But the cupboard is far from cleared of talent and experience as the Hurricanes return veterans at both tackles spots and younger players with experience at the ends. Headlining the Miami front wall will be junior defensive tackle Vince Wilfork, who returns for his third season at UM with designs on making a huge impact for the Hurricanes in his first season as the probable starter. Wilfork was close to cracking the team’s top 10 in tackles last year with 43 stops including 15 tackles for losses, eight quarterback hurries and seven quarterback sacks. Joining Wilfork in the middle will be Santonio Thomas and Orien Harris. Thomas played in two games last year before missing the rest of the season with a shoulder injury. He has played in 15 games over the last three years and had three tackles for losses and one sack in little more than a game of play in 2002. Harris earned increasing playing time as last season progressed, racking up 36 tackles (14 solos), 14 quarterback hurries, one sack and a fumble recovery. Another veteran tackle, senior Larry Anderson, returns this season and figures to battle for playing time after missing much of 2002 with an illness. The process to find a rotation of defensive ends figures to be one of the team’s primary concerns this spring. Miami returns two players with extensive experience in junior John Square and sophomore Thomas Carroll. Square has played in 13 games over the last two seasons, including four games in 2002. He had five sacks in nine games two years ago before being limited by a chest injury last season. Carroll worked into regular playing time last season as a redshirt freshman, garnering six tackles (two for losses) and one quarterback sack. The arrival of junior college transfer Alton Wright this spring from Kilgore (Texas) JC could shore up some of the depth at end, as will the emergence of a pair of talented redshirt freshmen in Baraka Atkins and John Wood. Both Atkins and Wood are considered stars of the future for the Hurricanes. Junior David Williams moves to defensive end this spring after spending his first three seasons at Miami at tight end.

LINEBACKERS The Hurricanes return two starters who started every game in 2002, and a third who started the final segment of last season. As usual, Miami has exceptional talent at all three positions headed by senior middle linebacker Jonathan Vilma and weakside linebacker D.J. Williams. Both Vilma and Williams made the 11-man list of semi-finalists for the 2002 Butkus Award and figure to be prime candidates for national honors again this season. Vilma is the most experienced starter on the Miami roster with 24 career starts in the middle. A First-Team Verizon Academic All-American 2002, Vilma has led the Hurricanes in tackles the last two seasons, including 133 tackles last year along with eight stops for losses, two sacks, two fumble recoveries, one forced fumble and four quarterback hurries. Williams was a disruptive influence for opposing offenses throughout the season, ranking second on the team in tackles (108) and tying for the team lead in tackles for loss with 16 (45 yards) along with four sacks and two forced fumbles. A former fullback, Williams could be on the verge of a huge season in 2003. The young pup of the linebacker corps is sophomore Roger “Rocky” McIntosh, who broke into the starting lineup at strongside linebacker last year and appears ready to master the UM defensive scheme. McIntosh started five of the final six games of 2002 and finished with 43 tackles (24 solos), eight for losses, and one forced fumble. A group of talented linebackers will continue to provide depth across the board led by senior SLB Jarrell Weaver, sophomore MLB Leon Williams, junior WLB Darrell McClover and sophomore SLB Buck Ortega.

SECONDARY The Hurricanes welcome an entirely different situation in the defensive backfield than they faced a year ago as all four starters and the top eight secondary players from 2002 return. The 2002 starting quartet of cornerbacks Kelly Jennings and Antrel Rolle and safeties Maurice Sikes and Sean Taylor not only settled in comfortably as starters but led the nation in pass defense and pass efficiency defense. Along the way, the Hurricanes tied the NCAA record for fewest yards allowed per completion for a single season at 9.5 for the year. Rolle, Sikes and Taylor earned First-TeamAll-BIG EAST honors in 2002 and all four returning starters should be top honors candidates this fall. The star of the unit could be junior free safety Sean Taylor, who established an edge to the unit with a series of bruising stops along the way to ranking third on the team with 85 tackles. Taylor picked off four passes and broke up a team-best 15 passes and forced a fumble. Redshirt freshman Brandon Meriweather figures to be the backup to Taylor. At strong safety, Sikes will sit out the spring following shoulder surgery. Sikes could return to his starting job in the fall after a season in which he was fourth on the team in tackles (80), intercepted three passes (returning two for touch-downs), knocked down nine passes, forced two fumbles and recovered another in addition to blocking a field goal on special teams. Rolle had an impressive campaign in 2002 with 66 tackles (fifth on the team), six stops for losses, two sacks, one interception, seven passes broken up and three fumble recoveries. The junior from Homestead figures to be one of college football’s top all-purpose corners, showing exceptional cover skills along with a hard nosed approach to run support. Jennings was overshadowed much of last season, but asserted himself as the starter at left corner as a redshirt freshman despite playing much of the season with a cast on one hand. The speedy Jennings made 25 tackles, broke up six passes and intercepted a pass in 2002. Alfonso Marshall returns as one of the team’s most experienced reserves at cornerback. Marshall started three games last season as a nickel or dime back and has played in 32 games over the last three seasons. He made 20 tackles last season, intercepted one pass and broke up six aerials. Sophomore Glenn Sharpe returns to provide depth at corner, as well, after a rookie season in which he made 18 tackles in 12 games and broke up three passes, in addition to recovering a fumble. Sophomore safety Marcus Maxey and soph Greg Threat return at strong safety and could thrive in Sikes’ absence during the spring. Maxey (11 games) and Threat (12 games) played extensively last year. True freshman Terrell Walden will join the team for spring drills at cornerback.

PITTSBURGH

HEAD COACH: WALT HARRIS

The Pittsburgh offense could explode this year if all the returning skill players can improve just a little bit. Quarterback Rod Rutherford is an emerging superstar and he has two sensational weapons at his disposal in Larry Fitzgerald and Kris Wilson. The running game should be strong, but the line has to fill in some big holes. Quarterbacks - Rod Rutherford, Sr. - Rutherford came into 2002 battling for the starting job and finished with such a flourish that he has to be considered an All-America candidate going into his final year. A great runner who's still improving his passing skills, Rutherford might make a Brad Banks-like jump into the higher echelon of the college football world this season if he can be a bit more accurate and make better decisions. At 6-3 and 220 pounds, he could become a decent pro prospect with a big season. Top Backups - Tyler Palko, Soph. - The superstar recruit is the future of the position. He played in a backup role last year and should be a strong. With another season to improve, he should be ready to step in next year. Luke Getsy, RFr. - He's roughly the same size and makeup of Palko, but he isn't the same player. Getsy is the clear number three trying to challenge for the No. 2 spot.

Running Backs - Brandon Miree, Sr. - Miree became a workhorse as the season wound down rushing for more than 100 yards in four of the final five games of the year. The 235-pound wrecking ball led the team in rushing and is a fine receiver out of the backfield. He'll play an even bigger role this season seeing the ball on the goal line more. Fullback Lousaka Polite, Sr. - This is Polite's fourth starting season as a great blocking back and solid short-yardage ball-carrier. He was third on the team last year rushing for 211 yards, but his real skill is in opening up holes for the tailback. Top Backups Raymond Kirkley, Jr. - After beginning last year as the starting tailback, Kirkley gave way to Miree after a few game and finished the year with 152 rushing yards. The 215-pound Kirkley is an experienced option to give Miree a spell. Fullback Tim Murphy, Soph. - An experienced backup, the 230-pound Murphy broke off a 52-yard run against Virginia Tech showing off his speed. He had problems with a shoulder problem, but he should be 100% this year.

Receivers - Larry Fitzgerald, Soph. - Fitzgerald is one of the best wide receivers in the nation. He has a knack for making the great play when the ball is in the air with a Cris Carter-like ability around the goal line. At 6-3 and 210 pounds, he's ready for the NFL right now. He's also a great character player with the drive to get even better. Yogi Roth, Sr. - It'll be up to Roth to take over for Lamar Slade opposite Fitzgerald. Roth made two catches last year in a reserve role with enough experience to handle the job of catching the underneath passes. Tight end Kris Wilson, Sr. - It's unfortunate that Wilson plays in the same conference as Kellen Winslow. The 6-3, 240-pound Wilson is a legitimate John Mackey Award candidate averaging 21.6 yards per catch with the speed to beat most linebackers and the strength to be one of the nation's better blocking tight ends. Top Backups Princell Brockenbrough, Jr. - The JUCO transfer had a hard time with a knee injury causing him to miss last year. At 6-3, he adds a bigger option to the receiving corps than Roth and Gaines provides. Tight end Eric Gill, Soph. - Gill played in all 13 games last year as Wilson's backup. A little bit bigger than Wilson, Gill is more of a blocker than a receiver only catching one pass last year.

Offensive Line - Tackle Rob Petitti, Jr. - Petitti returns to his starting job on the left side where he'll once again be an All-Big East and All-America candidate. At 330-pounds, he's a mauling blocker with good enough feet to handle most speed ends. Guard Dan LaCarte, Sr. - A starter over the last two years, LaCarte brings experience and side to the left side. He's not the most talented player in the Big East, but he works well with Petitti. Center Justin Belarski, Jr. - The 290-pound junior might take over the starting center job left by Chad Reed. He hasn't seen too much time, so his development is key. Rob Frederick played mostly with the first team early this spring, but he didn't look all that strong. Guard Jon Schall, Sr. - After starting at left guard in 2000, Schall has been more of a backup over the last two years. He has a huge task to replace Bryan Anderson at right guard. Tackle Matt Morgan, Sr. - Morgan has 22 starts of experienced, but he had problems with an ailing hip last year. He has excellent size at 6-7 and 295 pounds with the athleticism to protect Rutherford's blind side. Top Backups C Matt Maiers, Jr. - Maiers has spent more of his time as a backup guard. He'll move over to center this year to provide the depth. T Dale Williams, Soph. - The 285-pound Williams will push for time at right tackle being groomed as the 2004 starter. G Penny Semaia, Sr. - The 330-pound Semaia has seen plenty of action over his career and will push for time at left guard. Pittsburgh's defense doesn't have much star power outside of end Claude Harriott, but it should be in the top twenty all year. This group can best be described as solid with strong tackles, linebackers and safeties, but no one that stands out. The backups are talented and young.

This should be a superior defense in 2004 and it won't be too bad this year. Defensive Line - Defensive end Claude Harriott, Sr. - The concern going into last year was how the line was going to replace Bryan Knight. From out of nowhere, Harriott became one of the Big East's best players last year making 9.5 sacks and 21 tackles for loss. He's not just a pass rusher, he's great against the run as well. Defensive tackle Vince Crochunis, Jr. - After injuries hammered the scheduled starters last year, Crochunis ended up starting every game and became a top run stuffer making 71 tackles and 2.5 sacks. Defensive tackle Dan Stephens, Jr. - An active tackle with 16 games of starting experience, he's a solid player in the middle making 52 tackles last year. Defensive end Thomas Smith, Soph. - The 265-pound Smith gives the line a big option on the other side of Harriott. He played in 12 games last year making ten tackles and a sack. Top Backups DE Andy Alleman, Soph. - It'll be up to the 235-pound Alleman and Thomas Smith to take over for Brian Guzek. Alleman has seen playing time, but he hasn't done much yet playing mostly on special teams. DT Jake Holthaus, Jr. - Holthaus saw plenty of action last year on the nose making 18 tackles and six tackles for loss. DT Charles Spencer, Soph. - The 320-pound Spencer adds needed beef on the inside. He'll combine with Holthaus to backup Crochunis.

Linebackers - Lewis Moore, Sr. - Moore was sensational last year on the strong side making 94 tackles and eight tackles for loss. He's 6-2 and 245 pounds with sideline to sideline range. He has three years of experience making 199 tackles. He might be moved to the middle to replace Gerald Hayes. Joe Dipre, Soph. - Gerald Hayes led the team with 133 tackles last year and was one of the nation's best middle linebackers. Dipre will combine with Azzie Beagnyam to try and take his place unless Moore moves over to the inside. Dipre has superstar written all over him, but he'll need time to get his feet wet after redshirting his first year and declared ineligible last year. Malcolm Postell, Jr. - The former running back made 15 tackles in a reserve role last year. He learned enough on the job last year to use his athleticism on the weak side. After looking great in early practices, the spot is his on the weak side. Top Backups Brian Bennett, RFr. - Bennett is only 215 pounds and needs to hit the weights a little more, but he has raw talent. He'll back up Moore on the strong side if not start. Azzie Beagnyam, RFr - A top recruit, Beagnyam will find a place in the rotation. All he needs is a little more practice time before he becomes a major factor. If Moore moves the middle, Beagnyam will move to the outside. The coaching staff loves him. Charles Sallett, Soph. - The 210-pound walk-on will push for time on the weak side. He's not all that big and doesn't have too much of a chance at starting, but he'll need to become a consistent backup.

Secondary - Cornerback Shawntae Spencer, Sr. - Spencer has grown into an outstanding corner. He's big, fast and very productive making 51 tackles and three interceptions. He'll be the shut down corner on one side, but won't see much action since teams are going to stay away from him. Free safety Tez Morris, Soph. - Morris was steady last year finishing season on the team with 119 tackles and broke up six passes. He's not big and isn't a huge hitter, but he makes plays and is getting better and better with more experience. Strong safety Tyrone Gilliard, Jr. - Gilliard made 49 tackles last year and is a good run stuffer. Like Morris, he's not a big hitter, but he's a sure tackler and isn't too bad in pass coverage. Cornerback William Ferguson, Sr. - Ferguson has spent most of his career at free safety making 33 tackles last year. He'll get one of the first chances at replacing Torrie Cox at corner and has looked fantastic in early practices. Top Backups Cornerback Bernard Lay, Soph. - Lay saw time as a true freshman making five tackles coming in as a nickel back. At 6-2 and 195 pounds, he adds size to the position. Strong safety Corey Humphries, Sr. - Humphries was one of the rising stars of the secondary with size and instincts, but a torn ACL put a hold on that. He came back in time to play in six games, but he wasn't quite the same. He might be more of a factor this season. - Cornerback Marcus Furman, Jr. - The speedy Furman spent time at running back over the first two years of his career rushing for 75 yards and a touchdown last year. Special Teams Placekicker David Abdul, Soph. - Abdul eased all fears about the kicking game last year making 13 of 20 field goals hitting eight of 13 from beyond 40 yards. He was hitting bombs in spring practices. Punter Andy Lee, Sr. - One of the nation's better punters, Lee averaged 43.1 yards per kick last year putting 17 inside the 20. He'll be a Ray Guy Award finalist.

RUTGERS

HEAD COACH: GREG SCHIANO

New offensive coordinator Craig Ver Steeg is attempting to put in a new Pro-Style offense, but it's all about the offensive line. There are several running back options, some speedy receivers, and decent quarterback prospects, but none of that matters if the line isn't much, much better than it was last year. Rutgers averaged 1.5 yards per carry and allowed 51 sacks. With an experienced and injured line, the production might not improve. Quarterbacks - Ryan Hart, Soph. - Hart took over this spring as the team's top quarterback and starter finishing by going 7 of 9 for 102 yards in the spring game. He became a solid player over the second half of last year throwing for 479 yards and two touchdowns with six interceptions. He has a better command of the offense now, and has better mobility compared to the other quarterbacks. Top Backups - Ted Trump, Sr. - Trump is the leading returning quarterback completing 71 of 155 passes for 740 yards and four touchdowns. His problem was in his decision making throwing 11 interceptions. He has the biggest arm on the team. Chris Baker, Jr. - The former receiver caught 13 passes for 117 yards and two touchdowns. He'll be in the mix for the backup quarterback job if he doesn't moved back to receiver.

Running Backs - Markis Facyson, Soph. - Facyson started five games as a true freshman rushing for 398 yards and a touchdown. He's a quick player with a good boost once he gets past the line. - Fullback Cedric Brown, Jr. - The former linebacker saw time at fullback last season starting in one game. At 250 pounds, he's a good blocker, but not much of a runner. Top Backups - Clarence Pittman, Jr. - Pittman started in seven games rushing for 316 yards and a score. He has a little bit of power, but he wasn't able to provide much of a spark. - Jason Nugent, Soph. - Nugent was the best power back on the team averaging 4.3 yards per carry. At 210 pounds, he's strong in short yardage situations. - Marcus Jones, Jr. - The 200-pound Jones will get every chance to see time in the tailback rotation. He ran for 55 yards on 19 carries. He was the team's top runner in 2001. Fullback Brian Leonard, Soph. - The scout team performer will play along with Cedric Brown as the team's top fullback. He's a strong runner, now he has to develop into a good blocker.

Receivers - Shawn Tucker, Soph. - The 6-2 Tucker turned into a great reserve making 21 catches for 195 yards and a touchdown. He should grow into the number one role with his great speed and tremendous hands. - Tres Moses, Jr. - Moses was expected to be a top playmaker, but he hurt his knee on a punt return and was knocked out for the year. He caught 13 passes for 159 yards and a touchdown in 2001, and is now expected to be a decent starter. Tight end Chris Loomis, Jr. - Loomis will be one of three tight ends trying to replace L.J. Smith. After a sensational spring, the 230-pound junior should be a top pass catcher. He caught 11 passes for 110 yards and a touchdown as a backup and in a two tight end set. Top Backups Corey Barnes, Soph. - Barnes played in every game as a true freshman catching three passes for 41 yards. He isn't big, but he's extremely quick and should be great at finding the seems. Jerry Andre, Jr. - The 6-1 Andre started in four games catching eight passes for 137 yards with most of his work coming in the opener against Villanova. One of the fastest players on the team, he'll be asked to be a top deep threat. - Tight end Ray Pilch, Sr. - Pilch moves over to tight end after playing all of last year as a fullback carrying the ball 16 times for 135 yards. He has good athleticism and is a decent blocker.

Offensive Line - Tackle Ron Green, Jr. - The 320-pound JUCO transfer is a big blocker with great athleticism. With the tackle positions in question, the star recruit could make a solid starter when he gets to the team. - Guard Brian Duffy, Sr. - Duffy was the starting guard last season before tearing up his knee. He missed spring ball and is trying to come back for the season to start on the right side. When he's right, he's one of the team's best run blockers. - Center Marty Pyszcymuka, Sr. - He's the best offensive lineman on the team and the most versatile, Pyszcymuka can play defense, offensive guard or center. He's tough, but he's had problems with a variety of injuries. - Guard Rich McManis, Sr. - Experienced at both guard spots, McManis will get the first look on the left side after playing in ten games last season. He's big and has decent power, but he isn't quick.- Tackle Mike Williamson, Sr. - Williamson needs to make the move from being a great reserve to a solid starter. He has a little time at center and at both tackle spots. Top Backups - T Mark Segaloff, Jr. - Segaloff will get a shot somewhere on the offensive line. If Green doesn't end up making an impact at tackle, Segaloff could fill in. - T Mike Clancy, Jr. - Clancy saw a little bit of action playing in four games. He needs to be a top player after playing on the scout team. - G Sameeh McDonald, Jr. - McDonald should be more of a factor with all the injuries at guard. The 300-pound junior played behind McManis last season as a top scout team player.

The numbers weren't great, but it's unfair to pin all of the problems last year on the defense. The offense rarely kept drives going and never helped give the D any support. Even so, the defense has to be stronger in all areas after giving up 33 points and 405 yards per game. There are a couple of great playmakers, but little overall talent. Defensive Line - Defensive end Raheem Orr, Sr. - The 260-pound Orr is one of the most talented players on the team. Now he has to have a huge season to take the pressure off the rest of the line after making 62 tackles, 4.5 sacks and 9.5 tackles for loss last year. He has a great first step and is decent against the run. - Defensive tackle Gary Gibson, Sr. - Gibson is the most experienced player on the interior making 32 tackles on the inside. He's a relatively decent athlete and can get into the backfield. - Defensive tackle Vai Barnaby, Soph. - Barnaby will battle for the vacant starting spot after making 39 tackles as a reserve. He's one of the rising playmakers on the line and could be even better with some more time in the weight room. - Defensive end Ryan Neill, Sr. - Neill was on his way to a big season making 43 tackles and 3.5 tackles for loss in nine games before getting knocked out for the year with a knee injury. Top Backups - DE Alfred Peterson, Jr. - Peterson started in three games when Neill went down. He's a better overall prospect than Neill and will find more playing time as the year goes on. - DT Ron Jenerette, Sr. - Jenerette has grown into a decent reserve and could see plenty of time behind Gibson. The 290-pound senior made 16 tackles last year. - DT J'Vonne Parker, Jr. - He didn't see any playing time last year after transferring from Howard. At 345 pounds, he might grow into a run stopping factor. - DT Luis Rivas. Soph. - Rivas is one of the rising stars on the line making 14 tackles as a true freshman. At 275 pounds, he could end up starting very soon.

Linebackers - Brian Bender, Sr. - Bender is one of the veteran leaders on the team with 133 career tackles, three sacks and ten tackles for loss. He's expected to be one of the team's leading hitters and top all-around playmakers. - Jeremy Campbell, Sr. - Campbell and Ismael Medley could end up combining to try and take over for Gary Brackett. Campbell has a little bit of experience playing in 18 career games. He isn't all that fast, but he has decent instincts. Brian Hohmann, Sr. - Hohmann turned into a top outside linebacker making 47 tackles and five tackles for loss. He has decent speed and decent athleticism. Top Backups - Ishmael Medley, Jr. - Medley went from being a scout team player to a solid reserve. Now he's expected to be one of the better linebackers and special teams performers. - Will Gilkison, Soph - Gilkison turned into the team's top backup last year making 21 tackles looking stronger and stronger as the season went on. He might end up moving to the middle to give the team more experience.

Secondary - Cornerback Nate Jones, Sr. - Jones is a tremendous blend of speed and quickness. The best pro prospect on the team, Jones is great with the ball in the air making two interceptions and breaking up seven passes. He can tackle as well finishing third on the team with 84 stops. - Free safety Terry Bynes, Soph. - The 6-2, 210-pound sophomore will get the first shot at replacing Shawn Seabrooks at free safety. Bynes has seen time at linebacker to give the corps a little more speed. He could shine with his big hitting ability and great speed. - Strong safety Jarvis Johnson, Jr. - The big hitting junior is growing into one of the team's better players. He turned into a top playmaker with 61 stops and four broken up passes. Look for him to be all over the field and to take for Seabrooks as the team's best tackling defensive back. - Cornerback Brandon Haw, Sr. - The 6-0 Haw isn't quite the talent that Jones is, but he's been as productive leading the team with four interceptions and 18 broken up passes. He can also hit a little bit making 35 tackles. After missing most of 2001 with a knee injury, he looked strong all of last year. Top Backups - Cornerback Bryan Wilson, Jr. - Wilson played in every game mostly seeing time on special teams. He moved from receiver to defensive back last year and should be one of the key corners. - Free safety Jason Grant, Sr. - Grant will be in the mix for the starting free safety job after starting in two games. He's a good tackler making 42 stops and three tackles for loss. Free safety Anthony Frazier, Sr. - Frazier has seen time for three years mostly playing on special teams. He has a shot at playing at either safety spot. - Strong safety Eddie Grimes, Jr. - Grimes has been a fifth defensive back coming in as a nickel making 14 tackles. He's expected to play a huge role behind Johnson at strong safety. Special Teams - Placekicker Ryan Sands, Sr. - Sands handled most of the kicking duties last season struggling to hit only 5 of 12 field goals. He was far stronger as a sophomore hitting six of six. He'll get pushed by sophomores Justin Musiek and Mike Cortese. Punter Joe Radigan, Soph. - The 6-5, 240-pound sophomore will get the first shot at replacing Mike Barr. Barr was tremendous averaging 40.3 yards per kick putting 45 inside the 20. Radigan has a big leg, but he's not expected to be Barr right away.

SYRACUSE

HEAD COACH: PAUL PASQUALONI

Syracuse was able to move the ball and score, but it struggled too much in key moments. The rushing attack should be outstanding with two great backs working behind a veteran offensive line. The talent is there at quarterback and receiver, but the Orangemen need far more production this year out of both areas. Quarterbacks - R.J. Anderson, Sr. - Anderson had a strong sophomore season completing half his passes and rushing for 245 yards and five touchdowns. His stats weren't out of this world, but he moved the team and looked like a star of the future. He wasn't so strong in his junior year throwing interceptions and having problems with the passing game. Struggled to prove the necessary spark, he was benched for Troy Nunes. As the most experienced quarterback on the team, he has to provide the leadership and playmaking ability the offense got from Nunes. If he can't do it, SU has two great options ready to take over. Top Backups - Xavier Gaines, Soph. - Gaines could end up as the starter very soon to take advantage of his tremendous athleticism and size. The 6-4 sophomore was a wide receiver for a while before moving back to his more natural position at quarterback. - Perry Patterson, RFr. - Patterson is a very big, very strong quarterback with a big arm and great mobility. The 6-4, 240-pound redshirt freshman is in the mix for the staring job.

Running Backs - Walter Reyes, Jr. - Reyes turned into a machine last season rushing for 1,135 yards and 17 touchdowns averaging 6.2 yards per carry. He has excellent speed through the hole and is automatic inside the ten-yard-line. He isn't used much as a receiver, but he can catch making seven grabs for 62 yards. - Fullback Thump Belton, Sr. - How great is his name for a fullback? His real name is Keith, but Thump just sounds better. He's a 240-pound battering ram able to open up holes and carry the ball a bit in short yardage situations. He ran for 102 yards on 21 carries last year and is a team leader voted the offensive captain. Top Backups - Damien Rhodes, Soph. - The speedy Rhodes turned in a great freshman season rushing for 568 yards and seven touchdowns averaging 4.1 yards per carry. He isn't necessarily a big runner, but he has good size at 6-1 and 193 pounds. His game is all about speed clocking in at 10.7 in the 100 meters in high school. - Tim Washington, RFr. - Washington was a highly decorated recruit and appears ready to make a bit of an impact. It'll be hard with Reyes and Rhodes getting so many carries, but he'll get on the field using his quickness and cuts as a good third option. He led the team in the spring game rushing for 100 yards. Fullback Greg Hanoian, Jr. - Hanoian and Stephen McDonald will combine to play behind Belton. Hanoian moved over from linebacker to tight end and from tight end to fullback. He's the biggest of the fullbacks at 267 pounds. The 238-pound McDonald is more of a runner.

Receivers - Johnnie Morant, Sr. - It's time for Morant to be a star. He has the speed and the size at 6-4, 223 pounds to be a sensational all-around receiver. After averaging 22.7 yards per catch in 2001, he was merely average last season catching 24 passes for 327 yards without a score. - Jared Jones, Jr. - The former quarterback grew into a nice receiver last season catching 22 passes for 213 yards and two touchdowns. He has great speed and quickness able to get open from short to medium range. Tight end Lenny Cusumano, Sr. - The 255-pound Cusumano is a three-time Big East All-Academic performer and a big, physical tight end. The former fullback is used more as a blocker than fellow tight end Joe Donnelly. Top Backups - Rashard Williams, Soph. - Williams played as a true freshman making six catches for 46 yards. He's only 5-6 and 152 pounds, but he's lightning quick. He'll play behind Jones. - Andre Fontenette, Soph. - Fontenette is a physical receiver with good speed. He started to become a factor last year catching seven passes for 89 yards. Tight end Joe Donnelly, Sr. - Donnelly saw time in every game with five starts catching 12 passes for 148 yards and a touchdown. He's not quite the blocker that Cusumano is, but he's a physical player able to be a strength in the running game.

Offensive Line - Tackle Adam Terry, Jr. - The 300-pound Terry is a mountain of a player getting better with the more time he gets. He's a solid run blocker looking stronger on passing downs. - Guard Matt Tarullo, Jr. - One of the smarted players on the team, the two-time Big East All-Academic honoree started every game at right guard. At 313 pounds, he's the biggest starter on the line. Center Nick Romeo, Sr. - One of the best centers in America, the 298-pound Romeo is a three-time Big East All- Academic performer in the classroom, and a rock on the middle of the line on the field. He's been a fixture on the line for three years. - Guard Jason Greene, Soph. - Greene is the one new starter on the line, but he has a little bit of experience playing in five games as a true freshman. He has as much raw talent on anyone on the line and should be a factor with a little more time. Tackle Kevin Sampson, Jr. - Sampson has been a solid contributor since he came to SU starting in every game last year. He's not the best player on the line, but he's a strong player with decent drive. Top Backups - T Quinn Ojinnaka, Soph. - He was the last true freshman offensive lineman since 1986 to see starting time. He's only 264 pounds, but he has experience and good feet. - T Tim Carignan, Soph. - The former defensive tackle and guard will be the primary backup at tackle. He'll start the season behind Terry. G Steve Franklin, Soph. - The 310-pound JUCO transfer is expected to push for playing time right away. He'll back up Tarullo, but could be moved to the other side. C Chris Buda, Sr. - Buda hasn't done all that much in his career stuck behind Romeo. He has a little bit of experience and can step in if needed.

The defense was beyond horrible last year giving up 33.8 points and 478 yards per game. With those numbers, it might not be a bad thing that only two starters return to the back seven. The secondary is the biggest weak spot needing to tighten up in all phases. The line could be tremendous with several veteran stars. Defensive Line - Defensive end Josh Thomas, Sr. - Thomas has defensive tackle size playing on the end. The 288-pound senior lost a little bit of time with a foot injury, but still had a strong season making 33 tackles, three sacks and 6.5 tackles for loss. Don't be shocked if he grows into one of the Big East's top ends Defensive tackle Louis Gachelin, Sr. - Gachelin is the star of the line and a rock in the middle. He moved over from end to tackle a few years ago and has been great making 48 tackles, 8.5 sacks and 17 tackles for loss. He has decent size to stop the run to go along with a great first step. - Defensive tackle Christian Ferrara, Sr. - After missing two games with a knee injury, Ferrara became a solid tackle making 31 stops and 2.5 tackles for loss. At 302 pounds, he provides the beef on the inside as a the biggest player on the line. Defensive end James Wyche, Soph. - Wyche started seven games as a true freshman finishing the year with 40 tackles and 4.5 tackles for loss. He's a great athlete with the best speed on the line. With all the attention paid to the other three starting linemen, he should have a big year. Top Backups - DE Ryan LaCasse, Soph. - LaCasse was the top reserve on the end making 19 tackles and 2.5 sacks. He's a former running back bringing that quickness to the line. DT Brian Hooper, Jr. - Hooper saw a little bit of time even starting a game. He'll push for time behind Ferrara on the nose.- DE Julian Pollard, Jr. - Pollard was a key reserve making ten tackles and a tackle for loss. At 252 pounds, he's not nearly as big as Thomas, but he'll be a good player behind the senior star on the left side. - DT Kader Drame, Soph. - Drame saw time as a true freshman giving the Orangemen a big body in the middle. The 288-pound sophomore moved over from the offensive side to make seven tackles.

Linebackers - Kelvin Smith, RFr. - Smith could be one of the new stars on the defense. The nephew of Keith Bulluck is strong and athletic getting the starting nod on the strong side. - Rich Scanlon, Sr. - Scanlon is a smart, productive player with a ton of experience. He'll move over to the middle after making 59 tackles, three sacks and nine tackles for loss on the outside. He's not Clifton Smith, but he should come close to leading the team in tackles. - Kellen Pruitt, Soph. - Pruitt played in every game primarily on special teams. He was a decent reserve filling in when Jameel Dumas got hurt making 25 tackles, a sack and three tackles for loss. Top Backups - Cory Brooks, Soph. - Brook saw a little bit of time as a true freshman making six tackles. He isn't huge for a middle linebacker, but he has good speed and nice instincts. - Luke Cain, RFr - The former safety brings his speed to the outside. The 205-pound redshirt freshman will battle for time on the weakside behind Pruitt.- Tommy Harris, Soph. - The 245-pound Harris will push Smith for the starting job on the weakside. The former defensive end spent this spring learning how to play linebacker. He's not quite as talented as Smith, but he has little bit of experience.

Secondary - Cornerback Steve Gregory, Soph. - Gregory is the team's best cover corner and the only returning starter to the secondary. He broke up 19 passes and made two interceptions locking on everyone's top receiver. With great quickness and good hitting ability, he's one of the rising stars in the Big East. - Free safety Anthony Smith, Soph. - Smith played as a true freshman making 31 tackles with two tackles for loss. He had a big spring taking over the safety spot, for now, just ahead of O'Neil Scott. - Strong safety Diamond Ferri, Jr. - The former running back has settled into a role as a defensive back. He spent last year at Bunker Hill Community College and re-enrolled at Syracuse. His speed and quickness should be a huge help, and he's developing the ability to make the big hit. He ran for 256 yards and two touchdowns during his first two years on the team. - Cornerback Terrell Lemon, RFr. - Lemon has gotten bigger over the last year. Now he's a strong cornerback with outstanding wheels. If he struggles at all, Thomas Whitfield will take over the job. Top Backups - Cornerback Moe Sidibe, Jr. - The JUCO transfer brings great athleticism and nice size to the secondary. He'll push hard for time at both corner positions. - Free safety O'Neil Scott, Jr. - Scott has a good deal of starting experience getting the nod in seven games. He's a good sized player and a decent hitter making 61 tackles and an interception. - Strong safety Troy Swittenburg, Jr. - The former running back is still learning on the fly in the secondary. He saw most of his time on special team and will push Ferri for time. - Cornerback Thomas Whitfield, Soph. - He played in every game primarily seeing time on special teams. A good hitter for a player of his size, he forced two fumbles. Special Teams - Placekicker Collin Barber, Jr. - Barber is a steady, but unspectacular field goal kicker, hitting 16 of 26 in his career. He his a 50-yard shot, but was 2 of 6 from beyond 40 yards. - Punter Brendan Carney, RFr. - Carney has to replace the deadly accurate Mike Shafer. Shafer didn't have a huge leg, but he put 23 kicks inside the 20 and forced a whopping 13 fair catches. Carney is a big kicker with a good leg.

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ACC CONFERENCE

CLEMSON

HEAD COACH: TOMMY BOWDEN

Clemson’s football program has been to a bowl game each of the first four years of the Tommy Bowden era. He is the first Clemson coach to achieve that distinction and it marks the first time since the 1985-91 era that Clemson has gone to a bowl game four consecutive seasons. With the return of 11 starters, including seven on offense, plus the return one of the top place kickers in the nation in Aaron Hunt, and perhaps the top return tandem in the nation in Justin Miller and Derrick Hamilton, returning to postseason play is certainly an attainable goal for the 2003 Tigers. The elevation to active duty of a talented 2002 first-year freshman class that included 17 players who red-shirted, should also enhance Clemson’s outlook for the coming season. That class should give the Tigers the depth it lacked at times during the 2002 season. The Tigers are coming off a 7-6 campaign that included a victory over arch-rival South Carolina to finish the regular season. It was Clemson’s third win in the last four years over the Gamecocks under Bowden. The season began with a last minute 31-28 loss to eventual SEC champion and third ranked Georgia. Clemson fans wonder what might have been had the Tigers pulled out the season opener that late summer night in Athens. The Tigers were improved on defense in 2002, holding the opposition to 40 less yards of total offense per game. The point prevention unit allowed the Bulldogs to gain just 203 yards of total offense, their season low in a 13-1 campaign. The Tigers intercepted 21 passes altogether in 2002, the program’s highest figure since 1995, and it ranked 15th in the nation in that area. The defensive leaders include sophomore All-America candidate Justin Miller, who led the ACC in both kickoff returns and interceptions, and John Leake, who averaged 13 tackles per game last year, fourth best in the nation. Offensively, Clemson gained 4726 yards in 2002, the sixth highest figure in Clemson history. That total included a school record 3157 yards passing. Two different Clemson quarterbacks (Willie Simmons and Charlie Whitehurst) passed for at least 1500 yards, a first in school history. Three different Tiger receivers caught 50 passes, and two of them return (Kevin Youngblood and Hamilton). The top rusher (Yusef Kelly) and four of the five starting offensive linemen are also back.

Offense (7 Returning Starters, 17 returning lettermen) Clemson returns eight starters on offense, plus two other players who were position starters for the final five games of the season. Balance has been a hallmark of successful Clemson teams of the past. Clemson has never lost a game in its history when gaining at least 200 yards passing and 200 yards rushing in the same game. Improving the ground attack, especially in short-yardage to attain that balance will be a barometer Bowden will follow this year. The review of Clemson’s depth on offense starts at quarterback. Three quarterbacks have thrown for four touchdowns passes in a game in school history and two of them are on the 2003 Tiger team. The duo will compete for the starting quarterback position this spring and into next fall, giving Clemson the deepest quarterback position in the ACC. Charlie Whitehurst is number-one on the depth chart entering the spring, but he will be challenged by graduate student Willie Simmons. Both threw for over 1500 yards a year ago, a first in Clemson history. They were the reasons Clemson completed 268 passes as a team last year, also a school record. Whitehurst was the starter over the last five games of the season and he had some record setting performances. He led the Tigers to victories over Duke and North Carolina on the road and South Carolina at home in the final month of the season, leading Clemson to a bowl bid. The son of former Green Bay Packer quarterback David Whitehurst, Charlie completed 34-52 passes for 420 yards and four touchdowns at Duke in his first college start. He established Clemson single game records for completions and passing yards in that first start, a 34-31 Clemson victory. His second week he threw for just 274 yards, but again threw for four scores. For the season, Whitehurst set Clemson freshman records for completions (123), attempts (214), passing yards (1554), and touchdown passes (10). His most impressive and important performance came against South Carolina in the regular season finale when he completed 27-38 passes for 287 yards. He did not throw an interception and scored the tying touchdown on a nifty 11-yard run in the final period. Simmons started the first eight games of the season. He completed 142-244 passes for 1559 yards and six scores overall, his completion percentage (.582) was eighth best in school history and his completion total was fourth best. Simmons, who threw for four scores at North Carolina as a freshman backup to Woodrow Dantzler in 2000, might have had his best game at Florida State when he gained nearly 350 yards of total offense. He was especially efficient in leading Clemson to wins over bowl teams Georgia Tech and Wake Forest. Entering his final season, Simmons is ranked in the top 12 in Clemson history in passing yards, completions, interception avoidance, completion percentage and touchdown passes.

Leading the receiver group are veterans Kevin Youngblood and Derrick Hamilton. Both caught at least 50 passes in 2002 and this will be the first time in history Clemson has a pair of 50-catch receivers. They combined for 111 catches for 1193 yards and four scores. Both are already ranked in the top 20 in Clemson history in total receptions and reception yards. Youngblood led the way with 59 catches for 591 yards and two scores. He began the season with a 6-66 game at Georgia on ESPN and finished the year with a career best 134 receiving yards on seven catches in an ESPN game against Texas Tech. The native of Jacksonville, FL caught at least one pass in every game last year. Hamilton had 52 receptions for 602 yards and two scores. He now has 105 receptions in two seasons, the first player in Clemson history to catch at least 100 balls by the end of his sophomore year. He is more than 60 percent of the way to Rod Gardner’s record of 166. The junior is an all-purpose player for the Tigers. He was one of just two players nationally to record at least 200 yards rushing, receiving, in punt returns and kickoff returns in 2002. He led the ACC in all-purpose running with a Clemson record 1883 yards, and ranked 20th in the nation in that category with 144.8 yards per game. He had four games of at least 200 all-purpose running yards, including the victory over Georgia Tech when he had a 77-yard run and a 79-yard punt return. Another big play performer is junior Airese Currie, a starter in six of the 13 games a year ago. Ranked fifth in Clemson history in yards per reception with a 17.7 figure, Currie caught an 83-yard game breaker from Whitehurst at North Carolina last year, the longest pass play in the history of Keenan Stadium. He had 16 catches for 282 yards and three scores a year ago. Clemson will miss 2002 seniors J.J. McKelvey (52-785) and team leader Jackie Robinson (18-229), but two newcomers should fill in nicely. Red-shirt freshman Kelvin Grant and Tennessee transfer Michael Collins, are a pair of young and athletic tall receivers. Also contributing to the offense will be Ronnie Thomas and Curtis Baham. Both saw limited action last year, but have played well in the spring and look to replace the graduated Jackie Robinson. The tight end position will be led by sophomore Bobby Williamson, who had five catches for 47 yards and a touchdown last year. He is an outstanding blocker who will have an even bigger role in Clemson’s success on offense from a running game standpoint. Rod Whipple has moved from defense to tight end this spring. Bowden has a diverse roster of running backs. He is looking for someone who can be a game breaker, something he has never had in his four previous years at Clemson. He has some young players who could fill that role, and still has tough veteran players who will give the Tigers that needed change of pace.

The top returning rusher from last year is junior Yusef Kelly. The bullish all-around back gained 520 yards in 125 attempts and scored eight touchdowns, fifth best in the ACC. He also showed his ability as a receiver with 18 catches, fourth on the Clemson team. He started just four of the 13 games last year, but ranked second on the team in runs of 10 yards or more. He had 48 yards rushing on the clinching drive in the win over South Carolina last year. Chad Jasmin is another veteran back who is capable of contributing in the backfield in a number of areas. The senior from Louisiana has a 4.4 career rushing average and also has three career touchdown receptions, including two in the win at North Carolina last year. He is perhaps the best blocker among the Clemson running backs. Clemson returns just four starters from last year’s defense, but there are nine other players returning who played at least 100 snaps from scrimmage in 2002. The Tigers have also moved a couple of offensive players over to defense in an effort to improve the team’s overall speed. Similar to the case on offense, the return of many talented red-shirt freshmen should help Clemson’s depth and hopefully overall defensive performance in 2003.

Leading the Clemson defense will be three-year starter Khaleed Vaughn, leading tackler John Leake, and freshman All-American Justin Miller. All three are certainly capable of having a breakout season. Leake is one of the top returning tacklers in the nation. The native of Plano, TX had 169 tackles last year and his 13.0 per game figure ranked fourth best in the nation. A team leader, Leake now has 312 career tackles to rank 13th in Clemson history. His 169 stops last year ranked fifth best for a single season. In his third year as a starter, Leake combines quickness and toughness to be one of the top linebackers in the nation. Clemson must replace Rodney Thomas, a senior in 2002 who had 167 tackles a year ago. But, a pair of junior college transfers who will be seniors look to step into leading roles. Kelvin Morris is an athletic WHIP linebacker who showed what he can do at that position in the Tangerine Bowl when he had a career high 13 tackles and a sack. It was the first time he played the position all year. Brandon Jamison is a candidate for a starting position at linebacker. He had 48 tackles in just under 200 plays and his one tackle for every 4.6 plays led the team. Leroy Hill will battle for the starting middle linebacker position with Jamison. Hill was the top special teams tackler on the Clemson team by far last year with 21 stops. He played just 47 snaps from scrimmage, but that figure will increase greatly this year. Also in the middle linebacker picture are Roosevelt Nelson, a special teams player much of last year, and Charles Bennett, who moves over from defensive end. Red-shirt freshman Anthony Waters, a highly regarded player during his first-year freshman season, and letterman Nigel Vaughn, will also be in the mix at a linebacker position.

The most talented player on the Clemson team may be sophomore cornerback Justin Miller. The native of Kentucky tied a Clemson record with eight interceptions last year. He was a first-team freshman All-American according to the Football Writers Association and the Sporting News. Miller led the ACC and ranked fifth in the nation in interceptions, quite an accomplishment considering he started just seven games on defense last year. He was the only first-year freshman to appear in a game last year. Miller will hold down one of the cornerback positions. Last year he teamed with senior Brian Mance to give Clemson one of the top cornerback combos in the nation. Mance’s replacement will be a battle between Tye Hill, Toure Francis and Buddy Williams this spring. Hill was Clemson’s third leading rusher last year when he averaged a team best 5.4 yards per carry. He had a 100-yard game at North Carolina. But, Bowden wishes to make use of his speed on defense and he has played well in the secondary so far in the spring. Hill is also a stalwart on the Clemson men’s track team. Francis was a starting cornerback in the season opener against Georgia, but he suffered a torn ACL just 12 plays into the season. He should be back to 100 percent in the fall for the opener against the Bulldogs. Williams is a highly regarded red-shirt freshman who will get a strong opportunity in the spring and fall. Jamaal Fudge and Travis Pugh look to hold down the safety positions. They must replace 2002 starters Eric Meekins and Altroy Bodrick. Fudge saw action as a cornerback last year and had 27 tackles overall as a reserve. Pugh had 34 stops as Meekins’s backup a year ago and has the range to be an outstanding free safety. Reserves Tavaghn Monts and Gerald McCloud, a converted receiver, are also in the mix in the secondary.

Clemson’s deepest area on defense may be the defensive line. Clemson has eight returning lettermen for the four positions. The group is led by Khaleed Vaughn, who has started each of the last 26 Clemson games, including three bowl games. He had 60 tackles last year and had six tackles for loss, including four sacks. He was second on the team in quarterback pressures with 18. J.J. Howard, an athletic defensive end in his fifth year in the program, should finally get his chance at a starting assignment. He had 34 tackles last year, including four tackles for loss. A player who runs a 4.5 in the 40, Howard can chase down an enemy quarterback and make the big play. Maurice Fountain, who played in all 13 games as a reserve last year, is another athletic defensive end. Fountain had two interceptions, including one in the late stages of the Louisiana Tech game that iced the victory in Clemson’s column. Vontrell Jamison, who played on the offensive line last year, and red-shirts Gaines Adams and Brandon Cannon, are also in the defensive end race this year. The defensive tackle position is led by Donnell Washington and DeJuan Polk. Washington started all 13 games last year and had 55 tackles. At 6-6 and 320 pounds, he has the potential to be Clemson’s chief run-stopper on the inside in 2003. Polk had 25 tackles as a reserve last year. He is a graduate student in his final year of eligibility. Eric Coleman will also challenge for a starting position. Coleman had 31 tackles last year most among reserve defensive linemen. Todd McClinton had 15 tackles in his 141 plays of action last year in an injury plagued season. If healthy, McClinton could make a run for a starting position. Trey Tate and Donnell Clark are a pair of young players who could contribute this year.

DUKE

HEAD COACH: CARL FRANKS

The Blue Devils, under the direction of fifth-year head coach Carl Franks, return 23 starters and 53 lettermen from last year's 2-10 club. Headlining the returnees are All-ACC selections Ryan Fowler (LB; Honorable Mention), Alex Wade (FB; 2nd Team) and Matt Zielinski (DT, Honorable Mention). Fowler led the 2002 Blue Devils in tackles for the third straight season with 145 total stops while Wade finished third in the league in rushing (979 yards) and matched a school single-season record with a conference-high six 100-yard rushing games. Zielinski spearheaded a Duke defensive unit that paced the ACC in rushing defense, totaling 49 tackles, 18.5 tackles for loss and 10 quarterback hurries. All 11 starters are back for the Blue Devil offense including quarterback Adam Smith (2,031 yards & 12 TDs), wide receiver Khary Sharpe (30 rec., 458 yards & 6 TDs) and tailback Chris Douglas (640 yards). Joining Fowler and Zielinski on the defensive side are safety Terrell Smith (106 tackles), cornerback Kenneth Stanford (52 tackles & 14 total passes defended), linebacker Brendan Dewan (59 tackles in 8 games) and defensive end Micah Harris (61 tackles & 11.5 tackles for loss). The 2003 season will mark Duke’s 91st campaign of intercollegiate football, and the Blue Devils hold an all-time record of 436-400-31 ... Football was introduced at Duke by Dr. John Crowell, who coached then Trinity College to victories in its first two games ever — wins of 16-0 and 25-17 over North Carolina in 1888 ... After the 1894 season, football was banned at Duke by the Board of Trustees, but returned in high form in 1920 when Floyd Egan guided the team to a 4-0-1 ledger. The most significant player position changes involve rising sophomore Malcolm Ruff, who will switch from tailback to linebacker for spring drills, and redshirt freshman Paul Campitelli, who moves from tight end to defensive tackle ... In addition, Jim Scharrer and Phillip Alexander, both of whom have seen action at both linebacker and defensive end, will begin spring practice at defensive end. The Blue Devil offense brings back all 11 starters along with every key reserve from the 2002 campaign.

Duke’s offensive line, which will feature a starting unit comprised of four seniors and one junior, will look to remain healthy as the group of five starters — center Luke Bayer, guards Daryl Lewis and Rusty Wilson, and tackles Christian Mitchell and Drew Strojny — started all 12 games a season ago. Duke QB Corps Led By Smith Duke’s quarterback unit consists of three juniors — Chris Dapolito, Adam Smith and Chris Wispelwey — and one freshman, Mike Schneider ... Smith started all 12 games in 2002, and became just the third Duke sophomore to throw for over 2,000 yards ... By completing 174- of-308 passes for 2,031 yards, Smith joined Leo Hart (2,238 yards in 1968) and Spence Fischer (2,563 yards in 1993) as the only second-year players to accomplish the feat. Douglas & Wade Form Solid Duo Duke’s running back tandem of Chris Douglas and Alex Wade — a pair of rising seniors — enter their final season in Durham with a combined 3,278 rushing yards ... Douglas, who battled through injuries and managed to rush for 640 yards in 2002, ranks sixth on Duke’s career chart with 1,984 career yards on the ground ... Wade posted the school’s fifth highest single-season rushing total last fall with 979 yards, and enters 2003 with a career total of 1,294 yards ... Wade also matched a Duke single-season record with six 100-yard rushing games including a career- best 165-yard effort against Wake Forest ... Douglas and Wade finished the year ranking fifth and third in the ACC, respectively ... In addition to their running prowess, both Douglas and Wade have proven to be valuable receiving threats out of the backfield ... Douglas caught 21 passes in 2002 (69 career receptions) while Wade hauled in 20 passes last fall (44). 100-Yard Rushing Games Backfield mates Chris Douglas (4) and Alex Wade (6) have combined for 10 career 100-yard rushing games ... Wade’s six during the 2002 season led the ACC and matched Duke’s single-season record also held by Steve Jones (1972) and Randy Cuthbert (1989).

Jones also holds Duke’s career standard with 13. Landrum Pulls Double Duty Wide receiver Senterrio Landrum is pulling double duty for the second year in a row by participating in spring football practice while playing for the Blue Devil baseball team ... As of March 17, Landrum had started all 21 games in the outfield for Duke and was hitting .348 (24-of- 69) with one home run, four doubles, 11 RBI and five stolen bases ... Last fall on the gridiron, Landrum caught 29 passes for 294 yards and three touch-downs. Kittleson Posts Top Track Times Wide receiver Ben Kittleson joined Duke’s track and field team during the winter, and posted the team’s top times in a pair of events ... His time of 7.02 was Duke’s fastest performance in the 60- meter dash and his time of 22.45 was tops in the 200-meters. Sharpe ACC’s Top Returnee A rising junior, Khary Sharpe is joined by N.C. State’s Jerricho Cotchery as the top two re-turning wide receivers in the ACC in terms of touchdown receptions ... Both Sharpe and Cotchery finished third among the league’s receivers with six scoring grabs a year ago, trailing only Anquan Boldin (12) and Talman Gardner (8) of Florida State ... Boldin decided to forego his final season of eligibility while Gardner completed his eligibility. Douglas Closes In On All-Purpose & Kickoff Return Leaders Tailback Chris Douglas enters the 2003 season with 4,310 career all-purpose yards, needing just 72 to become Duke’s all-time leader in that category ... Mike Grayson holds the top spot with 4,381 yards amassed in his career from 1980-83 Duke’s Tight Ends

In 2002, Duke lost All-ACC tight end Mike Hart to graduation and then suffered a blow during preseason camp when projected starter Nick Brzezinski was lost to a knee injury ... The slack was picked up by sophomore Calen Powell and redshirt freshman Andy Roland, who combined for 42 pass receptions for 603 yards and three touchdowns. Defensive Secondary Returns All four starters in Duke’s defensive backfield will return for the 2003 ... The group is led by senior safety Terrell Smith and junior cornerback Kenneth Stanford ... Smith finished second on the team in tackles with 106 last season, and led the ACC with four fumble recoveries while Stanford, who earned Duke’s Most Outstanding Defensive Back honor, was among the league leaders in total passes defended with 14 on 11 PBUs and three interceptions. Also back is junior safety Alex Green (64 tackles in 2002) and sophomore cornerback Brian Greene (44 tackles in 2002). Duke received a big lift from its defense in 2002 as the Blue Devils led the ACC in rushing defense just one year after finishing ninth in the league ... The Duke defense returns nine-of-11 starters from last season including Honorable Mention All-ACC selections Ryan Fowler (LB) and Matt Zielinski (DT) ... In 2002, Fowler led Duke in tackles (145) while becoming the first player in school history to lead the team in tackles in his first three seasons in the program ... He will begin the 2003 campaign ranked seventh on Duke’s career tackle chart with 359 ... Zielinski secured the middle of the Duke defensive line from his tackle position, and finished the year with 49 tackles ... In addition, he was among the ACC leaders in tackles for loss (18.5 - 3rd) and forced fumbles (3 - t4th).

FLORIDA STATE

HEAD COACH: BOBBY BOWDEN

Being Florida State, there are athletes and players with raw talent that most programs can only dream about. The question is whether or not this crew can use all this talent to form a devastating offense. The quarterback situation is fine, but Chris Rix could be running for his life behind an inexperienced line with no depth. The running backs could be outstanding if Greg Jones is healthy again. Quarterbacks Projected Starter Chris Rix, Jr. - Has a star quarterback ever had a more bizarre career? The unsung player among a group of young quarterbacks, Rix won the starting job in his freshman season only to get blasted for his mistakes. After Florida State lost to the better teams on the schedule last year, Adrian McPherson came in and looked like a star against the weaker squads. Just when Rix had a shot to take over the job again, he overslept. He's a speedy player with a nice arm and great all-around skills. What he doesn't seem to have is the command over, and full trust of, the team. Florida State quarterbacks never star without a few years under their belt, so this needs to be the time when Rix goes from talented prospect to superstar. If this spring was any indication, he'll make that move. Top Backups - Fabian Walker, Jr. - A big, strong quarterback with nice, but raw, skills, Walker will be in the mix for the starting job if he can get over shoulder problems. Over the course of spring ball, he looked better and better with the more work he got. Thrown to the wolves in the Sugar Bowl, he did an admirable job against a frothing Bulldog team. Wyatt Sexton, RFr. - Sexton won't get in the mix for the starting gig, but he'll see plenty of chances at the number two job if Walker's shoulder isn't right. A sensational passer, he might make an impact with some more seasoning.

Running Backs - Greg Jones, Sr. - Jones was on his way to pushing for All-America honors before tearing up his knee against Wake Forest. The big back was unstoppable at time averaging 5.8 yards per carry and rushing for 938 yards. A true workhorse, he can kill defenses that are worrying about the Florida State passing game. He missed spring ball rehabbing his knee. Fullback B.J. Dean, Soph. - The 256-pound junior won't see the ball, but he'll once again be a key in making the running game go. There might not be a more unsung player in the ACC. Top Backups - Leon Washington, Soph. - One of the best kick returnees in the ACC, Washington can also carry the ball rushing for 273 yards and a touchdown last season when Jones and Nick Maddox went down. He's a quick back with surprising power. Lorenzo Booker, RFr. - The No. 1 recruit in the county in 2002, the lightning fast booker could be a Warrick Dunn-like difference maker. Bowden has vowed to find a spot for Booker somewhere on the field as he makes plays every time he touches the ball. Torrance Washington, Soph. - Washington has enough experience to push for playing time. He'll add power to the rushing mix if Jones is having problems with his knee.

Receivers - P.K. Sam, Jr. - The split end job isn't his for sure, but he's expected to be a star. A hamstring problem limited him last year as he only caught 13 passes for 162 yards. A big receiver with speed, this should be his breakout year. Dominic Robinson, Jr. - The former cornerback has worked his tail off to be ready to star at flanker. He only caught nine passes last season, but he has the size and the moves to become a top player. He has looked like a superstar at times this spring and could surprise as one of the ACC's best new receivers. Tight end Paul Irons, Jr. - The former fullback worked his way into the tight end rotation last season catching one pass, but used more as a blocker. He'll face some still competition for the starting job. Top Backups - Craphonso Thorpe, Jr. - The 6-2 flanker is a premier deep threat leading the team with a 22.2 yard per catch average last season. He caught 17 passes for 377 yards and four scores. Chauncey Stovall, Jr. - One of the candidates at split end, Stovall should make a huge impact coming out of a redshirt season. He's big, athletic, and very, very strong for a receiver. Willie Reid, Soph. - He'll add the flash to power that Jones brings if used as a running back, but he'll most likely stay at receiver playing at split end. Joey Kaliekini, Sr. - The backup split end is a nice special teams player who can get open and make the tough catch. He won't make any highlight plays, but he'll do all the dirty work, like blocking, that goes unnoticed. Matt Hensaw, Soph. - He'll get every shot at winning the starting tight end job. He's not all that big at only 209 pounds, but the former quarterback can get open.

Offensive Line - Tackle Alex Barron, Jr. - He was out this spring with a knee scope, but he should be fine returning to his spot at the strong tackle. A big blocker and the next FSU star on the line, he should be in for a big season. - Guard Matt Meinrod, Soph. - He'll be in the mix at tight guard after serving as an understudy to Todd Williams last year. An intense player with a little bit of experience, he should be a fine fill in. Center David Castillo, Jr. - A good, young player, Castillo became a factor towards the end of last year filling in when Antoine Mirambeu went down. At 300 pounds, he's a good sized player in the middle after being named the Offensive MVP this spring - Guard Bobby Meeks, Jr. - A spot starter when Montrae Holland had injury problems, the 295 pound Meeks is expected to be a top player if he continues to improve. Tackle Ray Willis, Jr. - The lone returning starter to the line, the 6-6, 295-pound Willis will have to be the anchor at tight tackle. He's the best run blocker on the team and is progressing into a good pass protector. Top Backups - OT Ron Lunford, Soph. - With little depth, Lunford has to become a factor at tackle. The 345-pound sophomore is still learning on the job, but should be the team's top backup as the season goes on. C Andrew Henry-Kennon, Soph. - Castillo has a hold on the starting job, but the 308-pound sophomore might turn out to be the better player. OG Eric Broe, Soph. - At 327 pounds, Broe is a big player with a little bit of experience. He played in every game last year, but it was mostly on special teams. He'll push for time behind Meeks.

Eleven starters (ten if you don't count Darnell Dockett) return and 26 lettermen will be in the mix for an experienced defense that got better and better as last season went on. There aren't any monsters on the defensive line other than Dockett, but the linebacking corps is more than good enough to pick up the slack. The secondary is experienced, but it has to be far better than it was last year. With at least eight good players to choose from, Mickey Andrews will find the right mix. Defensive Line Defensive end Kevin Emanuel, Sr. - One of the better tackling ends in the ACC, Emanuel made 40 stops and was tremendous at getting into the backfield making four sacks and 15 tackles for loss. He's not the most physical player in the world, but he's great at making one-on-one plays. Defensive tackle Darnell Dockett, Sr. - This is assuming that he'll end up back on the team this summer after getting tagged for petty theft charges. If he's not back on the team, Brodrick Bunkley will take over. One of the best linemen in the country, Dockett is a force in the middle making 57 tackles, 17 tackles for loss and seven tackles for loss last season even though he was never healthy. Defensive tackle Travis Johnson, Jr. - Lining up on the nose, Johnson provides a little more bulk to the line. He had problems with a shoulder that hampered him this spring, but he should be fine. By the end of last year, Johnson was one of the team's most effective linemen finishing with 50 tackles and 2.5 sacks. His biggest problems are off the field as he was charged on a felony count for an alleged sexual assault. - Defensive end Eric Moore, Jr. - Moore will be in a battle for the starting job on the right side, but he should be a factor as one of FSU's best pass rushing prospects. The 245-pound junior made 24 tackles last year, but ten were behind the line of scrimmage including four sacks. Top Backups - DT Broderick Bunkley, Soph. - A little small at 260 pounds, Bunkley saw time as a true freshman making 13 tackles. Extremely quick, Bunkley should be a terror at getting into the backfield from the middle of the line. He'll get the nod if Dockett isn't reinstated. DT Jeff Womble, Sr. - The 300-pound senior started over the first half of last season on the nose before getting knocked out with an ankle injury. Over the first five games of last year, he made 37 tackles and 11 tackles for loss. DE Kamerion Wimbley, Soph. - As a true freshman, Wimbley came along nicely as a reserve making 17 tackles. He has room to get a little bigger, but he's already looking like he'll be a top end in the rotation. DE Charles Howard, Jr. - If Howard doesn't take over the end job outright, he'll at least split time with Moore. He injured his knee last season, but appears to be as good as new. With 41 career tackles and two sacks, he has a little big of experience.

Linebackers - Michael Boulware, Sr.- Boulware is a star on the strong side. He finished last season with 127 tackles as a top run stuffer, but he's also great against the pass breaking up seven passes and picking off two. He might be used more as a pass rusher this season. Allen Augustin, Sr. - Augustin took over the job in the middle of last season and became a top playmaker finishing with 83 tackles and two sacks. With two great linebackers on the outside, he has more freedom to make plays knowing that Boulware and Pope will clean up any mistakes. Kendyll Pope, Sr. - The leading returning tackler with 296 for his career, Pope is one of the best linebackers in America and should be a near-lock for All-ACC honors. From the weak side, he has unbelievable speed and has used it to be more of a force at getting into the backfield. He used to be more of a safety playing linebacker, but now he has more strength and size at 220 pounds. Top Backups Ray Piquion, Jr. - The 215-pound junior made 11 tackles last season and mostly played on special teams. He'll back up Boulware on the strong side. A.J. Nicholson, Soph. - At 230 pounds, Nicholson is one of the bigger linebackers in the mix. He made 23 tackles last season and should become a factor this season as Pope's backup. He'll find a spot in the starting lineup soon if his performance this spring was any indication. He was tearing up the FSU offense. Ernie Sims, Fr. - Possibly the top high school prospect in the country, Sims was a huge signing for the Noles. An inside linebacker, he could make an instant impact if Augustin struggles at all. He's big and very, very fast clocking in a 10.7 in the 100 meters at a high school track star.

Secondary - Cornerback Stanford Samuels, Sr. - Sitting this spring after shoulder surgery, Samuels will return this fall to his spot on the left side. He came on at the end of last year to lead the team in broken up passes with seven. The team's best cover corner, he's also a great open-field tackler. - Rover Jerome Carter, Jr. - A big player and a big hitter, Carter became a top player by the end of last season finishing with 94 tackles and three pass breakups. He plays like another linebacker, but he's good in pass coverage. After a little bit of a shoulder problem, he'll be 100% by the start of the season. - Free safety Kyler Hall, Jr. - Combining with B.J. Ward, Hall will start at free safety again after seeing time in 26 straight games. He struggled at times last year, but he should be even better with all of his experience. He had a tremendous spring named the team's "most dependable defensive back." - Cornerback Rufus Brown, Sr. - Brown returns to the right side where he picked off two passes and broke up eight. He's a good all-around corner, but he's not quite the player Samuels is and had some major problems handling the Seminole receivers this spring. Top Backups FS B.J. Ward, Jr. - Ward will split time again with Hall. A bigger player than Hall, Ward could take over the job now that he has a better handle on the position. He moved over from the offense to make 51 tackles. After blocking four kicks last season, he needs to be accounted for when he's on the field. CB Bryant McFadden, Jr. - A nice sized playmaker, McFadden will play behind Brown on the right side. He made 21 tackles and picked off three passes last year. CB Leroy Smith, Jr. - With Samuels out this spring, Smith saw plenty of action with the first team. He was a valuable backup last season making 22 tackles and intercepting a pass. Rover Claudius Osei, Jr. - He was out this spring with an ankle problem, but he should be fine by the start of the season and could push for the starting job. He has starting experience making 41 tackles in 2002. Special Teams - Placekicker Xavier Beitia, Jr. - Beitia was on his way to an All-America season, but a missed 43 yard kick to Miami sent his season south as he missed six of his final twelve kicks over the rest of the year. He has a big leg and is accurate, but he must break out of the funk that hurt hi over the second half of last year. Punter Chris Hall, Soph. - Hall will get the first chance to take over for Chance Gwaltney. He attempted two kicks last season averaging 35 yards per boot. Gwaltney didn't have the biggest leg, so replacing his deep kicks won't be too much of a problem, but it'll be hard to replace Gwaltney's outstanding accuracy and ability to pin teams deep.

GEORGIA TECH

HEAD COACH: CHAN GAILEY

The quarterback situation is the key needing consistent play from A.J. Suggs or Damarius Bilbo for the offense to run effectively. The receiving corps isn't good enough to allow for average quarterback play. There's a stable of experienced running backs ready to run behind one of the ACC's best offensive lines. Quarterbacks Projected Starter - Damarius Bilbo, Soph. - The 6-3, 225-pound Bilbo is neck and neck with Suggs for the starting job. D-Bo's a better quarterback with better skills than Suggs, but he doesn't have the same experience or decision making ability. With his arm and talent, all he needs is time. He threw three touchdown passes last year in a reserve role and got better and better the more he played this spring. Top Backups A.J. Suggs, Sr. - Suggs started every game last year, but he lacked consistency and at times, accuracy. He threw 15 interceptions and 12 touchdowns passes playing well in games against Virginia and NC State, but looking miserable against BYU and Fresno State. He has the size and the arm, but he needs to be more accurate and has to show he can lead the team week in and week out. Brian Camp, Sr. - Camp played in two games last year, but didn't do much of anything not throwing a pass. He'll battle Al Pena for the No. 3 job.

Running Backs Ajenavi Eziemefe, Soph. - Eziemefe could grow into a star. He's 6-2 and 225 pounds with decent moves and quickness. He took over when Hollings went down rushing for 136 yards against North Carolina. Unfortunately, a sprained ankle kept him from doing much over the rest of the year. It's his show now after all the suspensions. Fullback Jimmy Dixon, Jr. - More of a tailback than a fullback, Dixon has to become a bit more of a tenacious blocker. He can catch the ball out of the backfield. Top Backups P.J. Daniels, Soph. - Daniels has gone from a walk-on to becoming a dependable backup. With all of the problems in the corps last year, Daniels became a factor rushing for 255 yards and two scores. Brian Johnson, Soph. - Johnson will get the first look as a backup fullback with Jonathan Jackson recovering from a broken ankle. At 250 pounds, he provides necessary bulk to the position. Tony Hollings, Sr. - Hollings tore up the college football world in the first few games of last year, and then he tore up his knee. After starting the year with 633 yards and 11 touchdowns in the first four games, Hollings went down early enough last year that he would've had a chance to be back to 100% by some point this year, but he was declared academically ineligible. He's 211 pounds with tremendous speed, but the question is whether or not he'll have the same quickness he showed before the injury. Now he'll have another year to get healthy. Michael Sampson, Soph. - An up and coming player, Sampson got the starting nod against Fresno State in the Silicon Valley Bowl rushing for 35 yards. He's a lanky back with decent speed, but he has to hit the weight room, and the library, hard. He looked great at times this spring and would've been the lead dog for the starting running back spot, but he's academically ineligible.

Receivers - Levon Thomas, Jr. - The 6-0, 205-pound Thomas is a physical receiver with decent speed. He doesn't have wonderful hands, but he's progressing and will have to shine in place of Kerry Watkins and Will Glover. Jonathan Smith, Sr. - The team's leading returning receiver, Smith caught 36 passes for 430 yards and three touchdowns last year. He's an experienced player with great quickness and an wonderful ability to find the openings. He's also a solid punt returner. Tight end John Paul Foschi, Sr. - He'll replace Will Heller in the starting spot. At 270 pounds, he's more of a pure blocker than a receiver, but he does have 17 catches in his career. Top Backups - Xavier McGuire, RFr. - The 6-3 McGuire is the team's tallest receiver and will push Thomas for time at one of the receiver spots. He's young and very talented. - Nate Curry, Jr. - Curry was never quite right after recovering from a broken kneecap. After a solid freshman season, he only caught one pass last year. If he's 100%, he'll be a great help to the depth. Lekeldrick Bridges, Soph. - Bridges can fly. He's 6-0 and could play a huge factor this season with his overall ability. With his speed, he's the team's best deep threat averaging 18 yards per catch.

Offensive Line - Tackle Nat Dorsey, Jr. - He's one of the best blockers in America. Dorsey will start again at left tackle where he has blocked out the sun with his 6-6, 330-pound frame for the last two years. The two-time All-ACC pick is getting better and better with more experience, but the coaching staff wants him to get down to about 315. He missed most of spring ball after shoulder surgery. - Guard Leon Robinson, Jr. - With 18 games of starting experience, Robinson should be in for a big season if he can overcome hand surgery that cost him spring ball. At 320-pounds, he's a sensational run blocker. He's coming off an off-season hand surgery. Center Hugh Reilly, Sr. - One of the best centers in the country, Reilly moved over from guard last year and became a star. The former defensive lineman is still improving and should be a top Rimington Award candidate. Guard Brad Honeycutt, Soph. - It'll be up to the 6-4, 295-pound Honeycutt to take over for Raymond Roberts-Blake on the right side. He mostly played as a backup tackle last year and needs time to learn the guard spot. Tackle Kyle Wallace, Jr. - He's 6-6, 285 pounds and a perfect complement to Dorsey on the right side. He's not as good as Dorsey, but he's growing into a top talent on his own and could be up for some all-conference honors. Top Backups OT Jeremy Phillips, Jr. - The junior spent almost two years trying to overcome a knee injury and became a dependable backup last year. He'll back up Wallace on the right side. OG Andy Tidwell-Neal, Jr. - With Robinson hurting, Tidwell-Neal saw most of the snaps in spring ball at left guard. He's an experienced and capable backup. He had problems with an ankle injury late this spring. C Clay Hartley, Sr. - With Reilly in the middle, Hartley won't see too much action, but he could fill in at guard if necessary.

The defense should be outstanding upfront with problems in the secondary. The pass rush should be tremendous with a slew of big, fast ends led by the return of Greg Gathers. The linebackers won't get much press, but they're good. Defensive Line - Defensive end Greg Gathers, Sr. - The superior sack-master returns after missing almost all of last year with a kidney problem. Getting his strength back has been a little bit of a problem, but he should be back to his All-America level by this fall. For his career, the 270-pound senior has 31 sacks and 57 tackles for loss. Defensive tackle Alfred Malone, Jr. - The team's biggest defensive lineman, the 300 pound Malone returns for his third season as the starter in the middle. With more work, he could develop into an All-ACC caliber talent. Defensive tackle Travis Parker, Soph. - Parker is small for this line as a 265-pound tackle, but he's strong and extremely quick. Defensive end Darius Williams, Jr. - With little developed depth at tight end, the hope was for the 6-6, 265-pound Williams to become a factor. It probably won't happen as he was moved over to the defensive line this spring. He'll start now that Tony Hargrove is ineligible. Top Backups DE Eric Henderson, Soph. - A Freshman All-American last year, Henderson took over when Gathers was out making 58 tackles and 15 tackles for loss. He'll only get better with more time and could become a devastating situational pass rusher. DT Omar Billy, Soph. - The 270-pound sophomore saw a little bit of action last year but didn't do much. He'll be the primary backup behind Parker. DE Terron Pullen, RFr. - The 270-pound redshirt freshman is yet another big end in the rotation. He'll back up Williams. DE Tony Hargrove, Jr. - A great athlete for a 266-pound player, Hargrove made 49 tackles last year and helped to pick up the slack after Gathers went down. He'll hopefully get back next year after being declared academically ineligible.

Linebackers - Tabugbo Anyansi, Jr. - One of the team's fastest linebackers, Anyansi will take over the starting job on the outside now that Kingi McNair is ineligible. Daryl Smith, Sr. - The leading tackler last year with 99, the 235-pound Smith will be back and ready to roll this fall after undergoing shoulder surgery. He's not just a great tackler, but he's also sensational in pass coverage and at getting into the backfield. Keyaron Fox, Sr. - Fox is more of a safety playing linebacker, but he became a star last year making 92 tackles even though he was hampered by a sprained ankle. With his quickness, he's great at handling receivers out of the backfield. Top Backups - Ather Brown, Sr. - Brown gives the corps experience and versatility able to play on the outside or in the middle. He made 23 tackles last year. He mostly played in the middle this spring. Kingi McNair, RFr.- It would've been his job to replace Recardo Wimbush after redshirting last year, but he's academically ineligible. He started his Tech career practicing at safety, but he'll be used on the outside as a speedy linebacker ... next year. He looked fantastic this spring. Gerris Wilkerson, Soph. - He's a nice sized linebacker who tore it up this spring. After getting a ton of playing time, the coaching staff appears to have faith in him.

Secondary - Cornerback Reuben Houston, Soph. - An unbelievable athlete, Houston mostly played as a nickel back last year making 44 tackles and an interception. He finished fourth in the ACC indoor meet in the triple jump and will get the first look at one of the corners. Strong safety Dawan Landry, Soph. - The former quarterback will get the first shot at strong safety after making eight tackles last year. He brings nice size to the position and is still learning on the fly. Free safety James Butler, Jr. - It'll be up to Butler to replace Jeremy Muyres. He isn't starting from scratch after seeing a little bit of time last year making 19 tackles. At 6-3 and 210 pounds, he's the team's biggest defensive back. Cornerback Jonathan Cox, Sr. - Cox will need to shine this year as the only returning starter in the defensive backfield. He was better last year at open field tackling than he was at defending the pass. He's a solid overall corner that should be in for a strong season. Top Backups CB Dennis Davis, Jr. - An all-conference sprinter, Davis is the team's fastest player and brings nice size to the corner. As spring ball went on, he made the transition from track star/football player to football player/track man. CB Venice Gilliam, Soph. - Mostly a special teams player, Gilliam will back up Cox. He's another quick Tech corner. FS Nathan Burton, Jr. - He'll get the first shot at free safety behind Butler. He saw a little bit of time last year making five tackles. Special Teams - Placekicker Dan Burnett, Sr. - Burnett missed his two field goal attempts last year, but he hit all eight of his extra point attempts. He'll be in for a big fight to replace Luke Manget from redshirt freshman David Jordan. Burnett looked fine this spring nailing some bombs. Punter Hal Higgins, Sr. - After spending his career as the team's holder, Higgins will get the first shot at the punting job. He got a sixth year of eligibility after being diagnoses with Hodgkin's disease a few years ago. If he can't get it done, Tech will have to hope an incoming freshman will take over. Andy Thomson and Travis Bell will be in the hunt before the season starts.

MARYLAND

HEAD COACH: RALPH FRIEDGEN

Ralph Friedgen, the most successful second-year coach in ACC history with a 21-5 record over two seasons as the Terps’ head coach, embarks on Year No. 3 in charge of the Terrapin football program in 2003. To date, Friedgen has overseen an astonishing turn of events since taking control of the Terps’ program following the 2000 season. In his rookie season following 32 seasons as a successful assistant, Friedgen captured consensus national Coach of the Year honors after leading his alma mater to an ACC title, a BCS bowl berth (FedEx Orange), a 10-2 overall record, and a final coaches’ poll ranking of No. 10. This past season, the Terps exceeded expectations once again, winning 10 of their final 11 games to finish with a school record-tying 11-win season (11-3) and a berth in the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, where they overpowered Tennessee, 30-3. A year ago at this time, shortly after the Terps completed their amazing 10-2, ACC-championship season of 2001 under first-year head coach Ralph Friedgen, critics were ready to label Maryland’s football program the latest “one-hit wonder.” No longer. Maryland followed its turnaround season of 2001 with only the second 11-win campaign in school history in 2002. 17 Starters Return Maryland’s early preseason Top 25 recognition can be attributed to the fact the Terps return a total of 17 starters – nine defense, seven offense, one special teams – from its 11-3 season of 2001. The 17 players have combined for 331 starts (average: 19.5) over the last three seasons.

A breakdown: QUARTERBACK Outlook: Senior Scott McBrien, a 14-game starter who finished 12th nationally in passing efficiency last season, headlines a group signal-callers which returns virtually in-tact from a year ago. McBrien, a left-handed transfer from West Virginia, rallied after a slow start to help lead the Terps to victories in 10 of their last 11 games. On the year, he completed 57 percent of his passes for 2,497 yards and 15 touchdowns. In the Terps’ 11 wins, he completed 60 percent of his throws and totaled 14 TDs vs. four interceptions. McBrien proved to be more than just an accurate passer, however. He also was adept running the ball, totaling seven rushing touchdowns and 284 net yards on 88 carries. McBrien figures to become an even more important cog 2003 with another year of experience running Friedgen’s offense under his belt. Last year’s backup, Chris Kelley , has moved to the defensive secondary, meaning promising redshirt freshmen Joel Statham and Sam Hollenbach will vie for the backup duties behind McBrien.

TAILBACK Outlook: Surprising Chris Downs (1,154 yards as a senior) has completed his eligibility, but the Terps are well-stocked at the position nonetheless, beginning with 2001 ACC Player of the Year Bruce Perry . The 5-9, 196-pounder missed the first 2/3 of last season with a torn groin, but started to show his old form – he rushed for 1,242 yards as a sophomore in 2001 — when he returned to action late in the year. Perry has rushed for 1,778 yards and caught 47 passes in his career and is an obvious candidate for postseason all-star honors, when healthy. Josh Allen , who is entering his sophomore season, was one of a handful of true freshmen to see action for the Terps last year. A player to watch, Allen finished his impressive rookie season as the team’s No. 2 rusher, totaling 405 yards and eight touch-downs, including a 116-yard, two-TD effort in a pivotal win over West Virginia. Sophomore Mario Merrills also returns after seeing action in 2002. A pair of players who sat out last season, redshirt freshman J.P. Humber and transfer Sam Maldonado , also will compete for time.

FULLBACK Outlook: Senior Bernie Fiddler is the lone returning fullback who has carried the ball for the Terps, and he has seen most of his action on special teams. The Terps must replace the departed Chad Killian (eligibility expired) and James Lynch (declared for NFL draft), both of whom combined to start 14 games in 2002. Fiddler is a solid isolation blocker who also is a threat catching the ball out of the backfield. The other returning lettermen are sophomore Jason Crawford , who is being moved from tailback, and sophomore Maurice Smith , a converted linebacker who has seen virtually all of his action on special teams.

WIDE RECEIVER Outlook: Six of the Terps’ top seven wideouts from 2002 return, the lone loss being Scooter Monroe, who led the team in receptions (37) and receiving yards (614) as a senior. The six returnees combined for 82 receptions, 1,513 yards (18.5 average) and seven touchdowns last season. Seniors Jafar Williams (28 receptions, 562 yards, 2 TDs) and Latrez Harrison (20-369-2) are big targets with good speed who ranked 2-3 on the team in receptions last season while combining for 13 starts. Junior Steve Suter, a slot receiver, might be the most heralded of the bunch following his breakout season of last year, when he scored seven touchdowns (four on punt returns, two on receptions, and one on a reverse) on his way to second team All-America honors as a return specialist. Other returnees who saw significant playing time in ’02 include junior Rich Parson and sophomores Dan Melendez and Jo Jo Walker .

TIGHT END Outlook: The Terps enter spring drills with the tight end position easily one of the deepest spots on the team. It is a unit led by three-year starter Jeff Dugan , who is considered by his coaches to be one of the best blocking tight ends in the country. Dugan, who is backed by sophomore Derek Miller , is the most senior member of the Terps’ offensive unit, with a team-best 34 starts and 36 games played to his credit. In three seasons, the 6-4, 261-pound Dugan has caught 41 passes, but routinely draws more notice for his blocking, which has been pivotal in helping spring 1,000-yard rushers each of the past two seasons. Miller, an imposing target at 6-8, 257 pounds, saw action in relief of Dugan in 2002, and will be looking to return to form after breaking his right leg in the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl.

OFFENSIVE LINE Outlook: Three of five starters return to an offensive front that played a key role in Maryland’s balanced and productive offensive attack in 2002. The key questions entering spring camp are finding replacements for All-American center Todd Wike and two-time All-ACC right tackle Matt Crawford, both of whom completed their collegiate eligibility last season after combining for 88 career starts. The Terps return starting guards Lamar Bryant (a second team All-ACC choice) and C.J. Brooks (honorable mention All-ACC) along with starting left tackle Eric Dumas, all of whom started every game in 2002. Sophomore Stephon Heyer is expected to challenge for a starting spot after an impressive true freshman campaign as a backup at left tackle. Moving from tight end to bolster the tackle position is junior Ryan Flynn . At center, junior Kyle Schmitt will begin spring camp in the spot manned most of last season by Wike. In all, nine of 11 lettermen from the 2002 team will be in spring camp.

DEFENSIVE LINE Outlook: Two starters and seven lettermen return to the defensive front, including honors candidates Randy Starks and C.J. Feldheim . Starks emerged last season as one of the top young tackles in the game, registering 93 tackles, 12.5 TFLs, 6.5 QB sacks and 17 quarterback hurries. Feldheim, a nose tackle, was enjoying his finest season as a junior last year before tearing the ACL in his right knee in the season’s eighth game. He won’t be available for any contact this spring. The biggest loss on the defensive front is end Durrand Roundtree, a 14-game starter in 2002 who finished second on the team in QB hurries (15). Among the seven re- turning lettermen who will vie for playing time in the spring include senior end Scott Smith (12 career TFLs), senior tackle Landon Jones , senior Tosin Abari , sophomore Justin Duffie , who played very well when pressed into a starting role in the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, and junior Kevin Eli. All told, the Terps’ seven returning lettermen combined for 10 sacks and 28 TFLs in 2002. Outlook: Even though the Terps graduated Butkus Award winner E.J. Henderson, the two-time ACC Defensive Player of the Year, linebacker still figures to be a strength of the Maryland defense. Fellow inside backer Leon Joe , who finished No. 2 on the team in tackles (103) and third in QB hurries (11), returns to headline this unit. He is joined by fellow starters Leroy Ambush and Jamahl Cochran, as well as six other lettermen, virtually all of whom saw significant playing time last season. The Terps return a trio of sophomores who saw time in backup roles, including promising Shawne Merriman, William Kershaw and D’Qwell Jackson.

SECONDARY Outlook: The Terps figure to field one of the country’s most talented and experienced secondary units in 2003, a four-man unit which has combined for 81 career starts. All four starters return from last year, including 2002 honors recipients Madieu Williams at free safety and Domonique Foxworth at cornerback. The other returning starters are cornerback Curome Cox , who has made 33 career starts, and strong safety Dennard Wilson , who has made 18 career starts. In total, the quartet combined for 13 of the team’s 18 interceptions a year ago. Williams, a transfer from Towson University where he played the 1999 and 2000 seasons, finished fourth on the squad in tackles (82) on his way to earning third team All-America honors from The Sporting News. Foxworth finished tied for third in the ACC in interceptions (5) and led the league in passes defended (23).

NORTH CAROLINA

HEAD COACH: JOHN BUNTING

The University of North Carolina football team returns 49 letter winners, including 15 starters, who will look to erase memories of last season ’s disappointing finish when spring practice begins on March 18. In 2002, Carolina fielded of the youngest teams in the Atlantic Coast Conference, with over 73 percent of its roster consisting of freshmen or sophomores. Spring practice will be as valuable as ever this year and should be another stepping stone in Carolina ’s overall improvement. “We were so young last year and we had several key injuries,” said head coach John Bunting..“This spring is a chance for a lot of young players to step up and seize the opportunity to play. I can’t wait to get back on the practice field and see how much we’ve progressed.” A pair of honors candidates – record--setting quarterback Darian Durant and first-team All-ACC free safety Dexter Reid – headline the squad. Durant, a junior from Florence, S.C., is on pace to shatter several school career records, while Reid, a senior from Norfolk,Va., is the nation ’s leading returning tackler. Despite breaking his thumb at Virginia and missing four games last year, Durant still led the ACC in total offense (285.6 yards per game),becoming the first Tar Heel to do so since Paul Miller in 1971.

Although he has made just 12 career starts, Durant has already made a sizeable dent in the school record book. He currently ranks first in career completion percentage (.614),tied for second in career touchdowns (33),fourth in career passing yards (3,966), sixth in career total offense (4,255)and seventh in career completions (289). Reid ranked as the nation ’s No. 2 tackler in 2002, averaging 13.8 stops per game. He finished the season with 166 tackles, a school record for a defensive back and just five shy of linebacker Buddy Curry ’s Carolina record of 171 in 1979. Offense :Last year, Carolina set a school record with 266.6 yards passing per game, but struggled running the ball, averaging 102.5 yards per game on the ground. While the Tar Heels still plan to utilize Durant ’s outstanding playmaking ability, they are seeking a more balanced attack.

For the first time since at least the 1980s, Carolina returns all five starters on the offensive line. Center Jason Brown started all 12 games last year and is a candidate for All-ACC honors after allowing just two sacks and dominating the line of scrimmage. Brown is flanked on the right by senior Jeb Terry, who is considered one of the top guards in the conference. A two-year starter, Terry is a team leader who can also play tackle if needed. He allowed just two sacks from the guard spot last year. At left guard, sophomore Kyle Ralph enters the spring as the starter, but will be pushed by senior Jupiter Wilson. Wilson started the first seven games last season, but gave way to Ralph, who came out of a redshirt season to start the final five games of the season. A pair of juniors – Skip Seagraves and Willie McNeill – return at the tackle positions. Seagraves is at right tackle and McNeill will protect Durant ’s blind side at left tackle. Both started 11 games last year. One of the most promising professional prospects in the ACC is Carolina tight end Bobby Blizzard. An honorable-mention all-conference selection last year, Blizzard finished fourth on the team with 28 catches for 440 yards and tied for the team lead with five touchdowns. An accomplished receiver who can run after the catch, Blizzard has worked hard to improve his run blocking ability. The Tar Heels enter the spring searching for replacements for departed wide receivers Sam Aiken and Chesley Borders. Aiken set school records in catches and yards last year and is expected to be selected in the 2003 NFL Draft in April. Jarwarski Pollock and sophomore Derrele Mitchell will be asked to step up this season after playing for the first time last year. A lightning quick speedster, Pollock had 31 catches for 464 yards and scored four touchdowns, while Mitchell had 15 catches for 232 yards. Sophomore Danny Rumley, senior Brandon Russell and sophomore Michael Gilmore will also contend for playing time.

At running back, Jacque Lewis returns as the starter. He led the team with 574 yards rushing last year, but should be challenged this spring by seniors Willie Parker and Andre ’Williams. Parker has started games in each of the last three seasons and Williams was the team ’s top rusher in 2001. All three have the ability to come up with big lays, but the coaching staff is looking for more consistency in the running game. Williams had back surgery last spring and missed the final eight games of 2002 with lingering back pain. After several months of rest and rehabilitation, he is at full strength heading into the spring. Defense: Carolina ’s youth on defense was often exposed last season as the Tar Heels allowed 450 yards per game. A year of experience and another off-season in the weight room should pay dividends this fall. Heading into the spring, Carolina has just two players who started every game last year – Reid and defensive tackle Chase Page.

Among the top concerns for the coaching staff is the development of the defensive line. Several opportunities exist along the front line as new defensive line coach Brad Lawing works to find a cohesive unit. Jocques Dumas started nine games at defensive end in 2002, but he will be challenged this spring by sophomore Kendall High. Last season, High started seven games at defensive tackle as a true freshman. Page and senior Donti Coats have the inside track at the tackle positions, but will face competition from junior Jonas Seawright and redshirt freshman Mickey Rice. Converted defensive ends Issac Mooring and Jermicus Banks are also under consideration at tackle. Tommy Davis, who started the final five games of the year at defensive end, should retain his starting spot, especially with the loss of senior Will Chapman to a medical hardship. Redshirt freshman Alden Blizzard will battle Davis for playing time this spring.

At linebacker, Carolina returns starters Doug Justice and Clarence Gaddy. Justice started 11 games at middle linebacker and finished second on the team with 97 tackles, the most by a UNC freshman since Dwight Hollier in 1990. He earned All-ACC freshman honors from The Sporting News and was a fourth-team freshman All-America. Gaddy started seven games at outside linebacker and finished with 25 tackles. Senior Clay Roberson will battle for the other outside spot, along with sophomore Jeff Longhany. Both started at least one game last year. In the backfield, Carolina returns Reid and senior cornerback Michael Waddell. Waddell had started 34 consecutive games until breaking his fibula against Clemson and missing the last two contests of the season. Although Waddell struggled last season, he still led the team with eight pass breakups. If he returns to his All-ACC form of 2001, then Carolina should have one of the top secondaries in the conference. Mahlon Carey, the Tar Heels third-leading rusher last year, will move to safety this spring. He started last season at tailback against Maryland, but the

BIG TEN CONFERENCE

ILLINOIS

HEAD COACH: RON TURNER

Illinois has to overcome the loss of some major skill players including the whole receiving corps. Even so, things aren't that bad. There's talent at receiver with help on the way. The running backs should be strong going with a committee of backs. The quarterback situation is the best in the Big Ten. Quarterbacks - Jon Beutjer, Sr. - After Dustin Ward started the season, Beutjer took over and became a top player. It took a little while, but he was sensational once the light went on finishing the season averaging a Big Ten best 228 passing yards per game. A big player with a huge arm, he was precise completing 62% of his throws down the stretch. Look for him to be an All-Big Ten caliber player this year. Top Backups - Dustin Ward, Sr. - Ward started the first five games and came off the bench to lead the Illini to a comeback win over Purdue. He's not as talented as Beutjer, but he's an outstanding No. 2 option if need be. He missed all of spring ball overcoming a shoulder problem. Chris Pazan, RFr. - The 6-2, 210-pound redshirt freshman and Tim Brasic are battling for the No. 3 job, but they might see some playing time getting groomed as the quarterbacks of the future.

Running Backs - Morris Virgil, Jr. - Virgil might get the starting nod, but it's doubtful if he'll be a workhorse sharing time with three other backs. The 195 pound junior averaged 7.7 yards per carry on rushing for 216 yards and three scores last year before missing the second half of the season with a knee injury. Fullback Carey Davis, Sr. - The 225-pound fullback isn't just a blocker, Davis is a solid ball carrier as well. He was second on the team in rushing last year carrying the ball 59 times for 319 yards averaging 5.4 yards per carry. Top Backups James Cooper, Soph. - Cooper can flat out fly. He the biggest of the rotating tailbacks at 200 pounds and brings his sprinter's speed to the backfield. Cooper played in five games last year rushing for 32 yards. Ibrahim Halsey, Fr. - The 2002 star recruit is expected to make an impact when he joins the team this season. He's already listed as neck-and-neck starter with Virgil. Franklin Payne, RFr. - A great all-around athlete and nice pass catcher in practice, Payne will most likely be third in the running back rotation seeing time in passing situations. Brad Haywood, Jr. - While Davis is a runner at fullback, Haywood is more a pure blocker. He carried the ball once last year. Jason Davis, Soph. - The 220-pound sophomore played in five games last year rushing for 64 yards. He'll be another decent running option at fullback.

Receivers - Kendrick Jones, Soph. - Jones played in eight games catching one pass for 12 yards, but he's mainly been a special teams standout. He has the speed, but now he has to prove he can be relied on to consistently make plays. Ade Adeyemo, Jr.. - A speed receiver, Adeyemo has been a special teams player throughout his career. Now he's expected to be one of the team's top deep threats. Tight end Anthony McClellan, Jr. - McClellan caught eleven passes last year for 142 yards and two touchdowns. He's not a very physical tight end, but he's a great pass catcher. Top Backups Kelvin Hayden, Jr. - Hayden is the best receiver on the team. The NJCAA Offensive Player of the Year, he's a sensational athlete and knows how to get into the end zone. Look for him to provide an instant spark when he gets into camp. Jamaal Clark, Sr. - The former defensive back returns to his natural position to back up Jones. At 6-2, he's a big target and very physical. Mark Kornfeld, Jr. - He came to Illinois as a quarterback, but he moved to receiver last year. He'll compete with Adeyemo for playing time. Melvin Bryant, RFr. - Bryant is an interesting prospect. He has the speed of a receiver, but the size of a tight end at 6-5 and 220 pounds. He'll be a backup at both positions. Estus Hood, Jr. - Primarily a special teams player, Hood will be the top back up at tight end. He's not much a pass catcher yet, but he can block.

Offensive Line - Tackle Sean Bubin, Sr. - Bubin will start his third year in a row at left tackle. The 300-pounder has grown into the job becoming one of the rocks of the line. - Guard Bryan Koch, Jr. - Mainly a backup last year, Koch will get the first look at left guard replacing all-star Dave Diehl. He's 285 pounds with enough experience to be a top prospect on the inside. Center Duke Preston, Jr. - Preston learned on the job starting last season for the Illini. At 305 pounds, he's a tough run blocker and is expected to progress into an All-Big Ten type of player. Guard Matt Maddox, RFr. - Maddox is neck and neck with Kyle Schnettgoecke for the starting right guard job. Maddox is younger, but he has 15 pounds on the sophomore. Tackle Bucky Babcock, Jr. - Babcock is one of the best in the Big Ten. He's moving from guard to right tackle to take over the spot held by All-Everything Tony Pashos. He's experienced, strong and very athletic. Top Backups - G Kyle Schnettgoecke, Soph. - He'll get every shot at the starting right guard job. He's a little light at 275 pounds, but he's getting better. C David Hilderbrand, Jr. - Preston is becoming a rock in the middle, but Liderbrand will see time as his backup at center and left guard. OL Martin O'Donnell, Fr. - An interesting prospect, O'Donnell is one of the Illini's best offensive line recruits in the Ron Turner era. He might not be in the mix right away, but he's worth keeping an eye on. The Illini has speed and athleticism, but it isn't all that physical.

The front seven should be great at getting into the backfield and should once again be solid against the run. The secondary is a concern without much talent on the corners. Defensive Line - Defensive end Derrick Strong, Sr. - Strong became a sensational pass rusher last year making 54 tackles, five sacks and 12 tackles for loss. After being hampered by a shoulder problem over the second half of the season, he should be a terror now that he's 100%. All that's missing is consistency. Defensive tackle Aaron Hodges, Sr. - After starting last year on the offensive side, Hodges became a top player in the defensive tackle rotation over the second half of last year. With a little more work, he's expected to become a big-time producer splitting time with Charles Gilstrap. Defensive tackle Jeff Ruffin, Sr. - At 295 pounds, Ruffin is the biggest run stuffer on the inside making 22 tackles last year. He's athletic and great at getting into the backfield. Defensive end Mike O'Brien, Sr. - O'Brien came out of nowhere to become a superior pass rusher making three sacks and 11 tackles for loss despite splitting time with Brian Schaefering. He'll combine at the position again, but that only helps the 225-pound O'Brien recharge. Top Backups DE Brian Schaefering, Jr. - At 260 pounds, he provides a bigger option behind O'Brien. Schaefering made 34 tackles, four sacks and five tackles for loss. DE Scott Moss, Soph. - Moss is one of the few linemen that won't rotate into the lineup since Strong always stays on the field, but he's still a good backup and provides a bigger option on the end. DT Charles Gilstrap, Sr. - Expected to be a key in the tackle rotation, Gilstrap made six tackles last year and should play more of a role this year.

Linebackers - Joe Bevis, Sr. - He'll combine with Antonio Mason at one of the outside positions. The 220-pound Bevis is smaller than Mason, but a little bit more active, more polished and more experienced. He made 49 tackles last year. Matt Sinclair, Jr. - It'll be up to Sinclair and Mike Gawelek to combine to take over for 2002's leading tackler Jerry Schumacher in the middle. Sinclair finished fourth on the team with 56 tackles and is one of the stronger linebackers on the team. Ty Myers, Sr. - Myers has the line on one of the outside jobs battling with Winston Taylor and Cyrus Garrett. Myers has started 18 games over the last couple of years making 36 tackles last season. He's also outstanding at getting into the backfield. Top Backups Antonio Mason, Soph. - Mason will be in the mix with Bevis for the starting job on the outside. At 245 pounds, he's bigger than Bevis and will turn out to be the better player. All that's missing is experience. - Mike Gawelek, Jr. - Primarily a special teams player, Gawelek isn't quite the player Sinclair is, but Gavelek will see plenty of action in the rotation. Winston Taylor, Sr. - Taylor is a 240 pound physical player seeing time in 11 games making 28 tackles last year. Cyrus Garrett, RFr. - This is the future star of the linebacking corps. Garrett is 6-3, 230 pounds and fast. He'll combine with Taylor and Myers on the outside, but his time will come.

Secondary - Cornerback Sharriff Gillon, RFr. - It'll be up to Gillon and Darnell Ray to take the place of superstar Eugene Wilson. Gillon isn't all that big, but he's extremely quick. Free safety Travis Williams, Soph. - Williams made 38 tackles last year and might be the most athletic of all the safeties. He's a solid kickoff returner and could become a major playmaker as his career goes on. Strong safety Marc Jackson, Sr. - Jackson will get the first look at strong safety and will be a primary backup at free safety. With three players rotating at the two starting spots, Jackson will find a spot on the field after finishing last year second on the team with 67 tackles and always found his way to the ball. Cornerback Christian Morton, Sr. - With teams staying away from Wilson, Morton got a lot of work thrown his way, and he responded at times with five pass breakups, but he had major problems at other times. He has to step up his play as the team's number one cover corner. Top Backups Strong safety Eric McGoey, Sr. - McGoey made a nice transition from receiver to make 25 tackles and an interception last year. He'll see time at strong safety. Cornerback Darnell Ray, RFr. - The 6-1, 160-pound Ray is bigger than the 5-8 Gillon. It should be cornerback by rotation for a while until the Illini coaching staff finds someone they can count on. Special Teams - Placekicker John Gockman, Sr. or J.J. Tubbs, Sr. - Peter Christofilakos was solid from short range, but he can be replaced. Gockman has a cannon of a leg hitting five of five from 40-49 yards, but missed his two kicks from beyond 48 yards. Tubbs was one of the team's main kickers in 2001 hitting 6 of 9 field goals. Punter Steve Weatherford, Soph. or Matt Minnes, Jr. - The two combined to punt for the Illini last year and each could use some improving. Weatherford averaged 39.7 yards per kick over the second half of the season taking over for the Minnes who lacked any boom on his kicks. The two will battle for the job again this season.

INDIANA

HEAD COACH: GERRY DINARDO

The offense will only work if the offensive line shines. The skill players should be excellent with the 1-2 receiving punch of Glenn Johnson and Courtney Roby working well with new quarterback Matt LoVecchio. There are three good running backs to rely on. The problem will be on the line with no depth and little overall experience. Quarterbacks Projected Starter - Matt LoVecchio, Jr. - The former Notre Dame signal caller will take over the starting job after sitting out a year. He has experience leading the Irish to a good 2000 season before losing the job in 2001 to Carlyle Holiday. An average passer, he's used the last year to sharpen his skills to go along with his decent mobility. Top Backup - Graeme McFarland, RFr. - After spending last season seeing time in practice as the team's third string quarterback, the decent armed McFarland should be a well-prepared No. 2. He isn't big, but he has good passing skills and O.K. mobility.

Running Backs - Brian Lewis, Sr. - Lewis was the team's top back before injuries knocked him out for the season. He averaged 4.4 yards per carry going for 438 yards, but he didn't get into the end zone. He's the best receiving tailback on the team and should be better and more effective splitting time with Yamar Washington. - John Pannozzo, Soph. - Pannozzo is an average blocker, but a fantastic receiver out of the backfield catching 26 passes for 258 yards and three touchdowns. He can carry the ball a little bit and should see a few more short yardage carries this year. Top Backups - Yamar Washington, Soph. - Washington became a godsend after Lewis got hurt taking over the starting role rushing for 688 yards and nine touchdowns. He turned into a decent receiver catching 15 passes for 91 yards. He's extremely quick and should emerge once again be a top back in the IU offense ... next year. He thought he sprained his knee in the spring game, but it turned out to be a torn ACL and will keep him out this year. - Chris Taylor, Soph. - Taylor became a major factor in the offense after Lewis went down as Washington's backup. At 207 pounds, he's a good sized back able to carry the load rushing for 102 yards against Northwestern. - Alex Stscherban, RFr. - A decent athlete, Stscherban will initially be used as a blocking fullback.

Receivers - Glenn Johnson, Sr. - Johnson became an top target blowing up for 53 catches for 837 yards and five touchdowns averaging 15.8 yards per grab. He's a good sized receiver with the experience to outsmart most defensive backs. - Courtney Roby, Jr. - Roby emerged as one of the Big Ten's most dangerous receivers averaging 17.6 yards per catch leading IU with 59 grabs for 1,039 yards and four touchdowns. With his size, speed and playmaking ability, he could grow into a superstar with Johnson taking the heat off on the other side. He's the cousin of former Iowa Hawkeye star punter Reggie Roby. - Tight end Aaron Halterman, Jr. - Halterman turned into one of IU's most reliable receivers catching 27 passes for 292 yards and a touchdown. He's a big player who's physical enough to play defensive tackle and quick enough to get open on offense. Top Backups Tyke Spencer, Soph. - Spencer is a quick receiver able to find the seams in the defense. He'll back up Roby after catching 17 passes for 231 yards and two touchdowns. - Travis Haney, Jr. - The 6-4 Haney is the team's biggest target with great potential. He's athletic and physical. Now he has to put it all together after catching 11 passes for 174 yards. - Patrick Thompson, Jr. - Thompson can be used as a big receiver or a small tight end. The 6-2, 223-pound sophomore will start the season behind Halterman at tight end.

Offensive Line - Tackle Isaac Sowells, Soph. - Sowells played as a reserve seeing time in every game. The 310-pound sophomore is expected to become a top starter on the left side. - Guard Jacob Wagner, Jr. - At 324 pounds, Wagner is a huge player with a little bit of experience playing in every game last year. He'll be in the starting role now that Anthony Oakley was kicked off the team. - Center Brandon Hatcher, Soph. - Hatcher was never healthy last year hindering his development. After being Chris Jahnke's understudy, the 296-pound sophomore will get the start at center. - Guard Adam Hines, Soph. - One of the rising stars on the line, the 301-pound Hines took over as a starter early on and was a fixture for the final ten games. He's a great run blocker on the right side and should grow into the best player on the line. - Tackle Chris Jahnke, Jr. - Jahnke is 305 pounds and a veteran center. He'll move out to right tackle to use his experience and all-around ability. Top Backups - OG Anthony Oakley, Sr. - Will he be let back on the team? Oakley earned time as a starter at both guard and center. He's the best player on the line earning Honorable Mention All-Big Ten honors last season showing a nice combination of power and quickness. He was supposed to be the starter before getting released from the team for failing a conditioning drill. DiNardo and Oakley made a deal before the spring that the senior wouldn't make the team if he didn't pass the test.

Defense - It's hard to see how this defense is going to come close to stopping anyone in the Big Ten. There are seven players with starting experience, but this is still a very, very young defense. The front seven is undersized and there's no depth whatsoever. The secondary should be greatly improved. Star of the defense: Senior FS Joe Gonzalez Player that has to step up and become a star: Junior DT Martin Lapostolle Unsung star on the rise: Sophomore DE Victor Adeyanju Best pro prospect: Sophomore CB Damien Jones - Defensive Line - Defensive end Jodie Clemons, Jr. - The 275-pound Clemons is a good sized defensive end with a little bit of speed. He made 33 tackles, two sacks and 5.5 tackles for loss. - Defensive tackle Martin Lapostolle, Jr. - Lopostolle is a former linebacker moved to the defensive line to take advantage of his size. He has decent quickness and a little bit of experience making 14 tackles in ten games. - Defensive tackle Russ Richardson, Soph. - Richardson played as a true freshman and took over the starting role after the opener. He's only 251 pounds and wasn't able to use his quickness to get into the backfield only making one sack. Defensive end Victor Adeyanju, Soph. - He got better as last season went on finishing the season as one of IU's better pass rushers. The sophomore made 33 tackles and two sacks. Top Backups - DT Chris Beaty, Soph. - At 265 pounds, Beaty is one of the team's smaller tackles, but he's one of the most experienced even though he only saw action in seven games.

Linebackers - Jason Cartwright, Jr. - The 5-11, 217-pound Cartwright isn't big and isn't experienced. He played in four games last season and didn't make a tackle, but he'll start on the weak side. - Kyle Killion, Soph. - Killion missed most of last year with an injury, but he still made 28 tackles, a sack and a tackle for loss. Only 223 pounds, he makes plays in the middle with his speed. He had a tremendous spring and should be IU's top linebacker. - Kevin Smith, Jr. - Smith came off a knee injury to become a top reserve making 18 tackles. He has five games of starting experience and will start on the strong side. Top Backups - Andy Halterman, RFr. - At 242 pounds, Halterman is a bigger player in the mix. He redshirted last season and appears ready to player on the strong side. - Randy Cate, Jr. - The former walk-on hasn't seen the field and will be the main backup in the middle.

Secondary - Cornerback Damien Jones, Soph. - Jones started every game last season before missing the last few games with an ankle problem. He's an experienced player after getting thrown into the fire as a freshman and came through clutch making 55 tackles and led the team with three interceptions. - Free safety Joe Gonzalez, Sr. - Gonzalez missed most of last season with a hernia. Before getting knocked out, he was one of IU's top hitters making 18 tackles and picking off two passes. He's not huge, but he's an active player who's always around the ball. - Strong safety Will Lumpkin, Soph. - Lumpkin saw more action as last year went on finishing the season with 17 tackles and broke up three passes. He's a smart, quick player that should become more of a factor with more experience. The problem? He might not be able to keep Herena Daze-Jones off the field. Cornerback Leonard Bryant, Soph. - Bryant became more of a factor by the end of last year after being a key reserve. He finished with 26 tackles proving to be a great open-field hitter. Top Backups - Strong safety Herena-Daze Jones, Jr. - Jones was IU's second leading tackler as a linebacker making 108 stops and 7.5 tackles for loss even though he misses a game. He's more of a defensive back with his 205-pound size and will be a big-time hitter when he gets a head of steam from the safety position. - Cornerback Buster Larkins, Soph. - Larkins became a starter midway through last year making 49 tackles as a safety. At 5-11 and 177 pounds with decent speed, he'll be better as a corner. - Free safety Luke Stone, Jr. - The JUCO transfer is a big player and a big hitter. He's too athletic and too talented to keep off the field. Special Teams - Placekicker Bryan Robertson, Jr. - Robertson was maddeningly inconsistent from mid-range, but he showed a huge leg from deep hitting 6 of 7 shots from beyond fifty yards while connecting on only 2 of 5 from 30 to 39. He'll battle Adam Brucher for the job. Punter Tyson Beattie, RFr. - The Australian native was the only punter on the Hoosier roster this spring. He's a big player with a big leg replacing the 38.2 yard per kick production of Ryan Hamre. If it helps, Beattie is a sensational cricket player.

IOWA

HEAD COACH: KIRK FERENTZ

Iowa has to replace a Heisman Trophy runner-up at quarterback, a John Mackey Award winning tight end and four starters from the offensive line. It's not time to panic yet with a great set of receivers and good running backs returning, but this group won't be the juggernaut that last year's Iowa offense was. Everything started up front last year and unfortunately, this line isn't anywhere near as good. Quarterbacks - Nathan Chandler, Sr. - It's asking too much for Chandler to step in and become the nation's passing efficiency leader like Brad Banks was. but Chandler could shine with a great array of skill players to help him out. The 6-7, 250 pound senior has the arm and the experience to instantly shine if he can improve on his accuracy. Top Backups - Matt Bohnet, Soph. - The 6-3 Bohnet is another big quarterback with a huge arm on the Iowa roster. He doesn't have the playing experience that Chandler has. He'll see some action being groomed as the starter for next year. - Jason Manson, RFr. - Manson will be neck and neck with Bohnet for the number two job behind Chandler.

Running Backs - Fred Russell, Sr. - The first team All-Big Ten performer returns after rushing for 1,284 yards and nine touchdowns last year. He has home run hitter speed once he gets through the line with the wiggle to make anyone in the defensive back seven miss. While not necessarily a workhorse, he doesn't seem to wear down despite only being 5-8 and 190 pounds. - Fullback Edgar Cervantes, Sr. - He's used primarily as a blocker but he can carry the ball a bit as well carrying the ball 26 times for 134 yards and a touchdown averaging 4.8 yards per carry. He is one of the Big Ten's best fullback. Top Backups- Jermelle Lewis, Jr. - At 212 pounds, Lewis provides more pop than Russell does and also has some decent wheels once he gets through the line rushing for 709 yards and eight touchdowns with a team best 5.8 yards per carry. He suffered a torn ACL and will be out for at least six months, but the coaches are still hoping he can be back for the season. - Marcus Schnoor, Soph. - A big back with talent, Schnoor was great when he got a chance to get on the field. All he needs are a few more reps to get comfortable.- Aaron Mickens, Jr. - Mickens saw a little bit of playing time last year only carrying the ball seven times. He won't unseat Cervantes serving as a reliable replacement at fullback if need be.

Receivers - Ed Hinkel, Soph. - Hinkel became invaluable as a redshirt freshman hitting singles while Maurice Brown took care of the home runs. The 6-1 sophomore caught 22 passes for 218 yards and a touchdown last year. He's not going to scare too many people primarily serving as a consistent underneath receiver. - Maurice Brown, Sr.. - Brown, a physical receiver with speed, was deadly last season catching 48 passes for 966 yards and 11 touchdowns averaging 20.1 yards per grab. While Nathan Chandler isn't Brad Banks, he can throw the deep ball and there's no reason to think the talented Brown can't repeat his 2002 production. - Tight end Erik Jensen, Sr. - Hi Erik. All you have to do is replace the best tight end in America. With Dallas Clark leaving early for the NFL, it'll be up to the 259-pound Jenson to learn how to catch the ball more after being used primarily as a blocker in two tight end sets. He doesn't have anywhere near the speed that Clark possesses. Top Backups - Clinton Solomon, Soph. - As a true freshman, the 6-4 Solomon caught 14 passes for 159 yards and a touchdown, but was inconsistent. The former quarterback is developing into a better and better receiver and will back up Hinkel at split end. - Ramon Ochoa, Sr. - A decent kick returner in the past, Ochoa will back up Brown this year. He made five catches last year averaging 12.8 yards per grab. Tony Jackson, Jr. or Mike Follett, Soph. - Each has a chance to become a big part of the offense as the Hawkeyes will be looking for receiving production from the tight end slot. Follett, a former outside linebacker, might have the best shot of turning into a productive receiver. The 270-pound Jackson will be used almost as a third tackle, but he didn't look bad this spring and could become a major factor.

Offensive Line - Tackle Robert Gallery, Sr. - The lone returning starter from last year's amazing line returns to his spot at left tackle. He isn't just the best player on the line, but he might be the best offensive lineman in the Big Ten and should be up for every post-season honor. If he had decided to come out early, he would've been a first round draft pick. Instead, the 6-7, 317-pound senior will have to be the anchor on a young line. Guard David Walker, Jr. - Walker is good enough and big enough to see time on the left side. He'll start the season as starter, but he'll get plenty of competition. Center Eric Rothwell, Sr. - After missing all of 2001, Rothwell came into last year as a backup guard. He'll get the first look at center and could end up seeing more time at guard if another center emerges. Guard Kory Borchers, Sr. - Borchers isn't the most talented player on the line and will have to battle to keep his job, but he provides some experience to the left side having started three games in 2001 and playing last year as a reserve. - Tackle Pete McMahon, Jr. - The 323-pound junior can play tackle or guard and will see the time on the right side. The former walk-on is extremely athletic for a player of his size. Top Backups - G Chris Felder, RFr. - Possibly the next great Iowa lineman, Felder is a big player who could still add a few more ponds to his frame. He'll push McMahon for time on the right side. - G Sam Aiello, Sr. - Aiello has a little bit of starting experience over the first two years of his career and he's a much better player now. With decent feet and good quickness, Aiello should be a nice backup on the right side if he gets off a team suspension. - T Blake Larson, Soph. - He's a 6-7, 310-pound player that's been clocked at 4.9 in the 40. He'll be a starting tackle in 2004.

Even with some major losses, the defense should be outstanding. The line could be the best in the Big Ten if there aren't any injuries to the starters, while the linebackers could be strong with time. The concern is over the secondary where two young corners have to give Iowa more production than it got last year. Defensive Line - Defensive end Howard Hodges, Sr. - The 6-2 senior is one of the nation's best defensive ends. An All-Big Ten performer last year, Hodges made 62 tackles and nine sacks last year. - Defensive tackle Jared Clauss, Sr. - With Colin Cole gone, Clauss becomes the team's top tackle. An honorable mention All-Big Ten performer last year, Clauss made 59 tackles and six sacks in the middle. He's not all that big, but he's extremely active. - Defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux, Jr. - The junior will make the move from end to tackle this season to replace Cole. He had a solid season on the outside, but he'll be much better inside to utilize his run stopping talents. - Defensive end Matt Roth, Jr. - Roth came on to become one of the Big Ten's premier pass rushers as 2002 went on recording nine sacks in conference play and ten overall. He could be an All-Big Ten player if he progresses as much as he did at the end of the year. He was arrested for public intoxication and possession of a fake driver’s license, but the matter will be handled internally and he should play. Top Backups - DE Derreck Robinson, Jr. - Robinson saw time in 11 games making six tackles. He'll back up Roth and will be a major player in the line rotation. - DT Joey Helms, Sr. - He didn't see a whole bunch of time last year only playing in five games, but as a senior, he's expected to be one of the team's top backup tackles.

Linebackers - Grant Steen, Sr. - Steen was a second-team All-Big Ten performer last year and will start on the outside. Equally strong against the run or pass, Steen made 57 tackles last year and picked off three passes in a game against Indiana. - Kevin Worthy, Sr. - Possibly the most valuable linebacker on the team now that Fred Barr is gone, Worth, who made 84 tackles last year, could end up playing in the middle or get moved to the outside if Abdul Hodge looks ready to take over inside. He has nice speed clocking in at 4.7 in the 40. - Chad Greenway, Soph. - Greenway's season never got going trying to overcome an early knee injury, but he ended up playing in eight games making 15 tackles. He might start on the weakside if Worthy doesn't get moved there. Top Backups - Abdul Hodge, Soph. - Hodge played in every game last year making 38 tackles. He has nice range for a middle linebacker prospect and could take over the job full-time. - Ed Miles, Soph. - After looking strong this spring, Iowa has another option it can rely on at any of the three positions. - Jermire Roberts, Sr. - The former defensive back brings that speed to the linebacking corps. He beefed up 15 pounds and should be a factor on the outside.

Secondary - Cornerback Jovon Johnson, Soph. - Johnson started twice as a true freshman picking off four passes and is expected to develop into the team's top corner. He's not big, but he has a knack for making plays. - Free safety Sean Considine, Jr. - Considine will take over for Derek Pagel at free safety after seeing time throughout his career as a backup. A smart player, he made 26 tackles last year and will have to play a huge role this season. - Strong safety Bob Sanders, Sr. - A leading candidate for the Jim Thorpe Award, Sanders is the best safety in the Big Ten packing a wallop in his 5-8 frame. He was second on the team with 102 tackles last year. While he hits like a linebacker, he also covers like one even though he was second on the team with twelve broken up passes. - Cornerback Antwan Allen, Soph. - Allen is growing into a great corner. He's a sure open field tackler making 60 stops last year and he picked off four passes. Top Backups - Free safety Chris Smith, Sr. -Smith played in five games last year making five tackles. He'll combine with Considine at free safety. - Cornerback Chigozie Ejiasi, Jr. - At 6-0, he's the team's biggest corner and should play a bigger role this season. He played in every game last year making 13 tackles. - Strong safety Marcus Pashal, RFr. - He's not going to unseat Sanders at strong safety, but he might be almost as talented as will be groomed as the star of the future. Special Teams - Placekicker Nate Kaeding, Sr. - He's the nation's best kicker as the returning Lou Groza Award winner. He hit 21 of 24 field goals last year showing marvelous range connecting on 8 of 9 from beyond 30 yards. - Punter David Bradley, Jr. - Bradley's 39.5 yards per kick was a bit misleading as he put 30 inside the 20. He became a night and day better kicker since his freshman year and could be an All-Big Ten performer if he makes another step up.

MICHIGAN

HEAD COACH: LLOYD CARR

Michigan should be brutally effective with one of the nation's most talented offensive lines. Having a front wall like thus will allow seasoned veteran John Navarre time to throw, and provide big holes for star back Chris Perry. There isn't a whole bunch of explosiveness, so don't expect big play after big play. Look for this to be an offense that grinds out yards, time and moves down the field with little problem. Keep an eye on the team's conversion percentage on third down. It could be ridiculously high. Quarterbacks Projected Starter - John Navarre, Sr. - The whipping boy of the program for a few years, Navarre didn't even have a firm grasp on the starting job going into last season. As happens with most young college quarterbacks, he got much better with more reps and more experience. Now he's a confident quarterback with a good command of the offense. His interception total dropped from 13 to 7 while his touchdown passes went from 19 to 21. Look for him to be a sneaky sleeper candidate for the Heisman if Michigan goes on a big run. Top Backup - Spencer Brinton, Sr. - Brinton is John Navarre-big with a good arm and nice drive on his passes. He hasn't seen much action, but he's a mature player with a good understanding of the offense. - Matt Gutierrez, RFr. - The 6-4 Gutierrez fits the typical mold of big, strong Michigan quarterbacks. He won't be in the mix for the starting job anytime soon, but he has to use this year to get groomed for the run at the top spot in 2004.

Running Backs - Chris Perry, Jr. - One of the nation's top underrated backs, Perry grew into weapon last season rushing for 1,110 yards and 14 touchdowns. He capped off his great year with a huge performance against Florida flashing his receiving skills catching six passes for 108 yards. Beware Big Ten, he looks even better coming into the 2003 season. - Sean Sanderson, Soph. - The 289-pound Sanderson is a huge player and a big blocker, but he lost time this spring sitting out to work on his studies. If and when he returns, he'll take over the job. Top Backups - David Underwood, Jr. - Underwood saw a limited amount of action last year rushing for 105 yards and a touchdown. Look for the 225-pound junior to make a major impact this year with good size and wonderful power playing behind Perry.- Tim Bracken, Jr. - The 207-pound Bracken is behind Underwood in the running back rotation for the moment, but he'll see plenty of action with good skills and nice quickness. He carried the ball 27 times last year for 97 yards and a touchdown before breaking his leg. - Brian Thompson, RFr. - With Sean Sanderson missing time this spring, Thompson saw a bulk of the action at fullback. He isn't as big or as physical as B.J. Askew was, but he should be fine with a little bit of time.

Receivers - Braylon Edwards, Jr. - Edwards is the next, great Michigan receiver. Taking over the fabled #1 jersey, Edwards should establish himself as one of the premier receivers in college football this season coming off a 67 catch, 1,035 yard, ten touchdown season. He has size, speed, and great playmaking ability, but he's not necessarily a deep threat. Working with a veteran quarterback like Navarre, Edwards should be a lock for 12 scores and 1,200 yards. - Tyrece Butler, Sr. - Butler will battle for the starting receiver job after making 21 catches for 199 yards. Playing both offense and special teams, he has more experience than any receiver on the team. With his size and smarts, he should be a great complement to Edwards as the year goes on. - Tight end Andy Mignery, Sr. - Also the backup punter, the 6-3 Mignery will push for Bennie Joppru's starting tight end job. The former quarterback is a smart player with good athleticism, but he's still learning how to be a top receiver. Top Backups - Calvin Bell, Sr. - Bell was a rising playmaker after the 2001 season catching 15 passes for 169 yards and three touchdowns, but he didn't make much of an impact last year only making two catches. He'll be in the mix for the starting receiver spot on the other side of Edwards. - Jason Avant, Soph. - Potentially a great one, all the 6-1 sophomore needs is time to grow into the role. He caught two passes for 21 yards last year. - Jermaine Gonzalez, Jr. - Gonzalez was in the quarterback mix a few years ago adding mobility and speed to the position. Firmly entrenched in the receiver rotation now, he'll be a factor as the year goes on. He's been a big playmaker so far in his career averaging 21.7 yards per catch on six grabs. - Tim Massaquoi, Jr. - He came to Michigan as an elite wide receiver prospect, and bulked up to become an athletic tight end. He'll battle Mignery for the starting job adding better receiving skills to the mix, but he won't just be a tight end playing a little at receiver and fullback.

Offensive Line - Tackle Adam Stenavich, Soph. - A CFN Freshman All-American, Stenavich will take over the starting job on the left side after getting three starts last year. He has a little bit of experience at guard, but he has feet and athleticism more suited for tackle. - Guard David Baas, Jr. - The 299-pound Bass is one of the best offensive linemen in the country. He's an experienced player with great leg drive making him punishing at the point of attack. He can play either guard spot starting this year on the left side. - Center Dave Pearson, Sr. - Pearson isn't just great on the field, he's wonderful in the classroom as well as an Academic All-America candidate. He brings experience and leadership to the line after starting every game last season. He's one of the best run blocking centers in America. - Guard Matt Lentz, Soph. - Lentz is in a neck-and-neck battle with Leo Henige for the starting right guard job. He was the prime backup behind Dave Petruziello last year giving the line more experience, but not as much size as Henige. - Tackle Tony Pape, Sr. - The Michigan line has some great players, but Pape is the star. The 305-pound tackle has grown into a tremendous pass blocker with good feet for and nice shuffling ability for a player of his size. He's the most experienced, and versatile, lineman on the team able to play on the left or right side. Top Backups - C Andy Christopfel, Jr. - He provides an experienced backup behind Pearson in the middle. He's good enough to start if necessary being groomed as the team's 2004 center. - G Leo Henige, Soph. - The 318-pound sophomore is emerging as a top player on the line. If he doesn't end up taking over on the right side, he'll be one of the first players in the line rotation.

With the glaring exception of the Iowa game, Michigan's defense turned into a brick wall as the regular season went on. Even though there were a few key injuries and problems against Florida, this was still a good defense. Now it needs to overcome the loss of players like Dan Rumishek, Shantee Orr, Victor Hobson, Charles Drake and Cato June. Michigan has the talent to reload, but it might take a while to jell. Defensive Line - Defensive end Larry Stephens, Sr. - Stevens is poised for a breakout year after making 45 tackles, four sacks and nine tackles for loss. He isn't just a pass rusher, he's a strong player against the run able hold at the point of attack. - Defensive tackle Norman Heuer, Sr. - Heuer missed most of spring ball having a cyst removed from his knee, but the 288-pound senior should be ready to start this season. The 2001 starter, he started the first four games of last year before Bowman took over. Look for him to be strong at getting into the backfield. - Defensive tackle Grant Bowman, Sr. - The 290-pound senior is one of the team's most experienced players, and an anchor on the line. He isn't going to get many headlines or honors, but he's a steady force needed for the rest of the line to work around. Defensive end Alain Kashama, Sr. - Kashama is a good sized end with great athleticism and a decent amount of experience seeing time in thirty games. He's a good pass rusher that has never quite lived up to his potential, but now he'll get his chance to shine. Carr has raved about him coming out of spring ball. Top Backups - DT/DE Patrick Massey, Soph. - Massey will be in the hunt for a starting job somewhere on the line. He's 6-8, 262 pounds with good overall athleticism. Even though he isn't all that heavy, he's a little more suited for tackle. Michigan needs him on the end. - DT/DE Alex Ofili, Soph. - Ofili saw time as both an end and a tackle last year. At 262 pounds, he isn't quite big enough to be an effective every down tackle. - DT Gabe Wilson, Soph. - At 358 pounds, Watson is a mammoth body on the inside. He saw a little bit of time as a true freshman, and should play a huge role this year.

Linebackers - Carl Diggs, Sr. - Diggs is coming off a broken leg suffered against Ohio State. Before the injury, he saw time in 36 games making 15 starts with 135 career tackles and 21 tackles for loss. He's a true run stopper with great sideline to sideline skills. Zack Kaufman, Sr. - Kaufman started ten games last year making 43 tackles, two sacks and five tackles for loss. He missed the last few games of the season with a knee injury, but he's scheduled to be 100% by the start of the season. While he's a rock against the run, he can also make plays dropping back into pass coverage. - Pierre Woods, Soph. - Woods will get a shot at playing on the outside after seeing a little time last year on defense and special teams. He's a tall, rangy player with good speed and a nice nose for the ball. Top Backups - Roy Manning, Jr. - Manning was supposed to grow into a top producer on the outside, but he was hurt almost all of last year. He's good at getting into the backfield showing nice instincts and timing. - Scott McClintock, Soph. - McClintock turned into one of the team's better inside linebackers starting two games and earning time as a top reserve making 39 tackles. He started out as a good special teams performer before becoming a valuable defender. - Joey Sarantos, Soph. - Sarantos is a smart player that got stronger as last year went on. He ended up starting against Wisconsin and made four tackles against Ohio State. He's more of a strong safety than a linebacker, but he's physical enough to be strong on the outside. - Lawrence Reid, Soph. - The 219-pound Reid will try and become a factor in the linebacker mix after getting hurt midway through last year. He was turning into a top reserve making 13 tackles in five games before going down.

Secondary - Cornerback Marlin Jackson, Jr. - Jackson doesn't get a whole bunch of national recognition, but he's one of the best cover-corners in college football with size, speed and great open field tackling ability. He has 98 career tackles, but he's at his best locking on to everyone's top receiver. In his first two years, he has 98 tackles, six tackles for loss, a sack, six interceptions and 25 broken up passes. - Strong safety Jon Shaw, Sr. - Shaw has made a name for himself as one of the best special teams players on the team, but now he has to make more of an impact as a defensive back. He got two starts last year at free safety when Cato June went down, but he's more likely to compete for the starting strong safety slot. - Free safety Ernest Shazor, Soph. - At some point, Shazor is going to be a star. The 6-4, 218-pound athlete is too good and has too much talent not become a top defensive back. He saw a little bit of time as a reserve last year making 25 tackles and broke up four passes. Even though he can play either safety position, he's more suited for free safety. - Cornerback Jeremy LeSueur, Sr. - LeSueur got a fifth year in the program as a top corner and kickoff returner. He's one of the most experienced players on the team with 122 tackles, two interceptions and 15 broken up passes. A big player with speed, he's an effective corner on the other side of Jackson. Top Backups - Safety Jacob Stewart, Soph. - Stewart saw action as a true freshman making three tackles on special teams. Now he's expected to push for time at both safety spots utilizing his hitting ability and size. - Cornerback Markus Curry, Jr. - Curry is an experienced reserve with three starts and time in 17 games. He's a good sized corner able to hit and able to make plays when the ball is in the air with seven broken up passes last year. He'll be the first player in behind LeSueur and Jackson. - Placekicker/Punter Adam Finley, Jr. - Finley helped turn around the Michigan kicking game last season hitting seven of ten field goals showing the consistency the team sorely needed. He also hit 20 of 20 extra points. He turned into a whale of a punter as well averaging 42.2 yards per kick putting 16 inside the 20.

MICHIGAN STATE

HEAD COACH: JOHN L. SMITH

There aren't any established stars, so the Spartans will rely on several players to fill the roles at all the key spots. The quarterback situation will remain a mystery until the fall when Jeff Smoker gets an honest shot at taking back the job. The running backs and receivers lack any appreciable experience, but they can all fly. Quarterbacks Damon Dowdell, Jr. - Dowdell came in last year and gave the offense and occasional shot in the arm. He was fearless at throwing the deep ball throwing for ten touchdowns and four interceptions. He has decent size and a little bit of speed, but he isn't necessarily a running quarterback. It'll be a battle up until the opener for the starting job. Top Backup - Drew Stanton, RFr. - Stanton has a big arm and a surprisingly good command of the offense for a redshirt freshman. He can throw equally well on the move or in the pocket. If his performances this spring were any indication, he's ready to take over the starting job. Jeff Smoker, Sr. - Smoker was off the team for a bit last year after having substance abuse problems. He hasn't been given a free pass by the new coaching staff needing to earn his way back into playing time. With his arm strength and experience, he'll be the perfect quarterback to lead the John L. Smith offense if he can get in the mix for the No. 1 job.

Running Backs - Jaren Hayes, Soph. - Hayes will combine with Tyrell Dortch to give the Spartans a decent rushing attack. While he isn't going to barrel over anyone, he'll be a home run hitting back with his sub-4.4 speed and great cutting ability. He finished last season third on the team with 340 yards with four touchdowns averaging 5.6 yards per carry. Top Backups - Tyrell Dortch, Jr. - Dortch spent last year trying to come back from a broken leg suffered when he played corner. The 209-pound junior will add some power to the backfield as the team's biggest running back. - Jerramy Scott, RFr. - Scott is a quick back with good breakaway speed. He saw action in one game carrying the ball nine times for 44 yards. - Jason Teague, Soph. - Teague saw action in eleven games last year rushing for 59 yards on nine carries. He won't take over the starting job, but he'll see plenty of action battling Scott for the number three job.

Receivers - Kyle Brown, Soph. - Brown is a good sized receiver with great speed and fantastic upside. He tore an ACL in high school, but now appears to be ready to make a big impact. No, he's not Charles Rogers. No one is. Even so, he's a good enough prospect to get the coaching staff excited. - Ziehl Kavanaght, Sr. - Kavanaght spent last season playing behind B.J. Lovett at flanker making 11 catches for 123 yards. He isn't a speed receiver using his quickness and hands to make plays. - Agim Shabaj, Soph. - Shabaj was a huge recruit for the Spartans and needs to turn into one of the team's best deep threats. He only made six catches for 45 yards last year, but with his 4.37 wheels, that should change. - Tight end - Eric Knott, Jr. - The 272-pound Knott made the successful transfer from the defensive line to tight end in a hurry. He's a punishing blocker with great hands finishing second on the team with 35 catches for 349 yards and four touchdowns. Top Backups - Matt Trannon, Soph. - The 6-7 basketball star was a top recruit for the program and should be one of the team's top receivers this season. He isn't just big and athletic, he's also very, very fast. - Ben Steckler, Soph. - Steckler didn't come through last year only catching one pass for 16 yards. This season, the 6-4, 208-pound athlete should play a huge role using his size and wonderful speed to push for starting time. - Robert Gallegos, RFr. - The super-quick redshirt freshman will be a top backup in the slot. Even though he's only 5-9 and 169 pounds, he'll have to make plays across the middle. Aaron Alexander, Soph. - The 6-5 quarterback has been converted to receiver after getting nudged out of the mix. With his speed and athleticism, he's too good to keep off the field. - Jason Randall, Jr. - Randall and Knott will combine to give the Spartans a great 1-2 tight end punch. Even though he isn't as big as Knott, he's a decent blocker with good deep speed for a 256-pound player catching 20 passes for 255 yards and three touchdowns.

Offensive Line - Tackle Stefon Wheeler, Sr. - Wheeler spent most of last year playing behind Ulish Booker, and he should grow into a top lineman. He's 320 pounds with decent speed and excellent feet. - Guard Joe Tate, Sr. - The 304-pound senior returns to his starting spot on the left side. One of the smartest players on the team, he's an Academic All-Big Ten performer off the field, and a power run blocker on it. - Center DeMarco Monroe, Sr. - With Brian Ottney out with chronic knee problems, the 330-pound Monroe will be the man in the middle. A big blocker who could be great in the running game with great strength. - Guard Paul Harker, Sr. - The line got a huge break when the NCAA gave Harker a sixth year of eligibility. He had a problem with neck and shoulder injuries over the course of his career, and now he gets an extra year to give the line more experience and talent. He's taking on the leadership role on the line. - Tackle Steve Stewart, Sr. - Stewart returns to his starting spot on the right side providing two years of experience to the line. He should turn into a devastating all-around blocker in his final year. Top Backups - C Chris Morris, Soph. - Monroe might be listed as the starter, but Morris is the better player and will end up taking over the center job very soon. C Joe Brooks, Sr. - The 299-pound Brooks should be more in the mix now that Ottney can't go. Brooks will back up at center, and he can play guard in a pinch. - G William Whitticker, Jr. - One of the best physical specimens on the team, the 6-6, 315-pound junior will provide tremendous depth if he doesn't take over one of the starting jobs. - T Sean Poole, Jr. - Poole has a little bit of experience and plenty of practice time over the years. He's a big player able to step in at either tackle spot.

The MSU defense got worse as last year went on getting shoved around against good running teams. This is a defense completely devoid of stars, but that doesn't mean it can't play. The linebacking corps has decent returning production, while the secondary has some excellent young prospects. Now the line has to come through against the run. Generating some semblance of a pass rush wouldn't be a bad thing. Defensive Line - Defensive end Greg Taplin, Sr. - Taplin missed a little time for violating team rules, and it cost the team. He isn't a great pass rusher with average speed, but he's a solid force against the run and is able to be a disruptive force in the backfield. In ten games, he made 38 tackles and two sacks. - Defensive tackle Brandon McKinney, Jr. - He got bigger adding a almost twenty pounds to his frame. An extremely strong tackle with decent quickness, the 312-pound junior should be a force coming off a 26 tackle, two sack season. - Defensive tackle Kevin Vickerson, Jr. - Vickerson returns to his starting spot on the line after becoming one of the team's steadiest forces making 42 tackles, a sack and six tackles for loss. Even though he isn't huge, he's strong and is good at shedding blockers. - Defensive end Clifford Dukes, Jr. - Dukes overcame and injured shoulder to grow into MSU's best pass rusher. He made 39 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, and four sacks in nine games. Top Backups - DT Greg Yeaster, Jr. - Yeaster isn't all that big at 265 pounds, so he uses his quickness to make plays. He made a bit of an impact as a reserve with 13 stops. - DE Clifton Ryan, RFr. - At 281 pounds, Ryan adds a huge body to line backing up Taplin at the end. He bulked up 20 pounds over the last year.

Linebackers - Seth Mitchell, Soph. - Mitchell has the size suited to play in the middle, but the 242-pound sophomore will use his size and speed on the weak side. He missed time with problems with his shoulder and neck finishing with 29 tackles in six games. - Ronald Stanley, Jr. - Stanley has been an unsung playmaker in the Spartan linebacking corps for two years now. After turning into big hitting player as a freshman, he grew into a top force on the defense finishing second on the team with 99 tackles with two sacks and nine tackles for loss. The 225-pound junior will get the start in the middle. Monquiz Wedlow, Sr. - Wedlow ended up moving from the middle to the strong side and became a top playmaker finishing with 90 tackles and three sacks. He's only 198 pounds using his speed and quickness to make plays on the outside. He's not quite fast enough to be an effective defensive back, so his physical style is better suited for linebacker. Top Backups Mike Labinjo, Sr. - Labinjo saw time on the weak side when Mitchell couldn't go. He's a bit of a freak of nature with 4.7 speed, great strength, and outstanding athleticism making 62 tackles. Luc Mullinder, Sr. - Mullinder didn't do too much last year making three tackles, but the 291-pound senior will have to be a top backup behind Dukes.

Secondary - Cornerback Ashton Watson, Soph. - Watson is a good sized defensive back with great speed. He was a top recruit last year and came through as a true freshman making 20 tackles and an interception. Now he'll be asked to be the team's new lockdown corner. Free safety Jason Harmon, Jr. - Harmon adds leadership as the lone returning starter into the secondary. He was fourth on the team with 64 tackles to go along with three interceptions. He has to be a bit stronger when the ball is in the air using his speed and size to be an intimidator. Strong safety Derron Ware, Soph. - The 6-3, 215-pound Ware stepped in as a true freshman making three tackles on special teams. He has the speed and the size to become a good player, and he needs to shine right away at strong safety. - Cornerback Roderick Maples, Jr. - After being a top reserve for two years, Maples will get the start at right corner. He isn't the speed player that Watson is, but he's quick. Top Backups - Defensive back Jeremiah McLaurin, Sr. -He has the size and speed to play either corner or safety. He was a solid reserve last year with 15 tackles, and will backup both Harmon and Maples. - Cornerback Darren Barnett, Soph. - At 6-0 and 175 pounds, he's a good sized corner prospect with a bit of speed. He has great hands and quick feet.

PAC TEN CONFERENCE

ARIZONA

HEAD COACH: JOHN MACKOVIC

There's no reason whatsoever for the Arizona offense to score a mere 227 points again. The running game was pathetic last year and needs Clarence Farmer to not only come back from a knee injury, but is now back after getting suspended. The line is fine, but not deep while the receiving corps has explosive young talent ready to break out. The quarterback situation is a bit of a problem with almost no experience returning. Quarterbacks Nic Costa, Soph. - As bad as Arizona's season was last year, the Wildcats at least had some firepower at quarterback. Nic Costa will get the first shot at replacing Jason Johnson, but that could change in a heartbeat. In the difficult offense, Costa has seen the most time and has it down better than the other quarterback options. He's not a big player at only 5-11, but he's athletic and smart. Top Backups - Ryan O'Hara, RFr. - The 6-6, 210-pound O'Hara is the prototype quarterback for the offense. Considered the savior of the offense and the program, the coaching staff will give him every shot at taking over the job. - John Rattay, Jr. - An experienced and talented quarterback, Rattay might be out of the mix after missing spring ball with a knee problem. If Costa and O'Hara struggle, Rattay will get back into the picture.

Running Backs - Clarence Farmer, Sr. - When Farmer was healthy, he was one of the best running backs in America combining power with unparalleled home run hitting ability. He rushed for 309 yards before going down for the year with a knee injury. He might be back from that injury problem, but now he has to overcome being suspended from the team by Mackovic. The Wildcats need him a lot more then he needs them. Fullback Gilbert Harris, Soph. - He's only 215 pounds, but he'll get the first look at fullback. He carried the ball for 56 yards last year and will spend most of this season as a blocker. Top Backups Mike Bell, Soph. - The jewel recruit of a couple of years ago has to become the back everyone's expecting him to be. Bell led the team with 341 rushing yards, but he only scored once on the ground and only averaged 3.2 yards per carry. Gainus Scott, Soph. - Scott has experience rushing for 68 yards last year in a reserve role. If Farmer isn't a part of the team, Scott will suddenly have to become a playmaker. Beau Carr, Soph. - The 206-pound Carr will get every opportunity to see time as a power back and might play at fullback. He was third on the team with 126 yards and led the squad with four rushing touchdowns. Sean Jones, Soph. - At 230 pounds, Jones provides more beef at fullback. He ran for six yards on one carry last year.

Receivers - Andrae Thurman, Sr. - A solid home run hitter with a 92-yard play to his credit, Thurman has to take over the No. 1 job now that Bobby Wade is gone. He's always been a reliable receiver, but now he has to be a star coming off a 61 catch, three touchdown season. Lance Relford, Sr. - A decent player with nice size, Relford has always been a possession-receiver plus, not seeing too many catches with Wade and Thurman getting all the passes. With his experience, he'll get the first shot at the starting job, but he'll get pushed hard to keep the job. Tight end Ray Gurley, Jr. - One of the nation's best JUCO prospects, the 255-pound Gurley caught 46 passes for 479 yards and six scores for in the JUCO ranks last year. Top Backups - Biren Early, Soph. - A big receiver, the 6-2 Early saw a little bit of action catching six passes for 89 yards and a touchdown last year. He'll start out backing up Relford, but he's talented enough to take over the job at some point. Mike Jefferson, RFr. - A huge recruit for Mackovic, Jefferson is 6-2 and can fly. He'll get every chance to see playing time if not take over a starting job outright. Marcus Thomas, Fr. - A superstar high school running back, Thomas wants to play receiver and the coaching staff is more than happy to oblige. He could be an instant impact player when he gets some practice time. Tight end Tommy Briggs, Jr. - The 255-pound Briggs was a nice pass catcher at Fresno City College and will instantly get into the mix when he joins the team. Tight end Matt Padron, RFr. - He'll get a shot to show what he can do this summer, but he might not have a shot at the starting job with JUCO recruits coming in to push for the job. The Arizona tight ends are mostly used to block, and the 260-pound Padron can do that.

Offensive Line - Tackle Chris Johnson, Jr. - Johnson can play either guard or tackle, and will get the first look at left tackle. He'll be pushed hard for the job, but it's his for now.- Guard John Parada, Soph. - At 6-8 and 326 pounds, Parada gives the Wildcats even more beef at guard, or tackle if necessary. He saw a little bit of time in 2002 and will get moved around depending on how the rest of the line shapes up. Center Keoki Fraser, Jr. - After taking over the job in the middle a few years ago, Fraser has been a solid player in the middle giving the Wildcats beef with his 300 pounds. Guard Kili Lefotu, Soph. - He'll take over at right guard is expected to grow into a top player. He saw a little bit of time last year, but one of Mackovic's top recruits should be ready to handle the full-time role. Tackle Brandon Phillips, Sr. - The 330-pound Phillips has grown from a decent defensive tackle as a rookie into a massive and very talented offensive tackle. He's not one of the most publicized offensive linemen, but he could be in the hunt for All-Pac 10 honors. Top Backups - C Reggie Sampay, Sr. - Sampay has bulked up over his career and been one of Arizona's most valuable players. He can play on either side of the line and has started at center as well. After getting a look at left guard, he'll push for time at center. G Keith Jackson, RFr. - The top recruit could be ready to step in and start right away. The 312-pound Jackson will be one of the team's top backups to start, but could come on with a little more time. T Tanner Bell, Soph. - The 324-pound Bell could become the new star of the line. He saw a little bit of playing time last year filling in when necessary, and is poised to become a top tackle.

The defense wasn't all that bad last season considering the offense didn't provide any support. Switching to a 3-4, Arizona will take advantage of the bulk of linebackers and will try and get pressure into the backfield from the outside. The secondary might be fine if Michael Jolivette comes back healthy at corner. Defensive Line - Defensive end Carlos Williams, Jr. - The 295-pound Williams started nine games last year making 27 tackles and 3.5 tackles for loss. With his size, he'll be more of a defensive tackle than a pass rushing end. Defensive tackle Vince Feula, Jr. - The 300-pound Feula played in nine games in 2002 making 11 tackles. He's a work in progress, but he's the best option at tackle right now. Defensive end Brad Brittain, Soph. - Brittain became a player as the year went on finishing with 19 tackles. He's a big player with nice athleticism and could be one of Arizona's top linemen over the next few years. Top Backups DT Carl Tuitavuki, Sr. - At 334 pounds, the former JUCO transfer will have to use that bulk to make more than 12 tackles this year. DE David Sharp, Jr. - Sharp had problems with his shoulder last yea and was never right. He's an active player that could make a huge impact as a pass rusher. DE Fata Avegalio, Jr. - A starter for several games last year, he only made 12 tackles and half a sack. He'll be a coach on medical scholarship ending his playing career.

Linebackers - Marcus Smith, Soph. - Smith was on his way to being a top player before getting dinged up last year. After looking like he'd push for time behind Bryan, he's scheduled to take over one of the starting outside jobs. Joe Siofele, Sr. - Siofele played on the outside, more as a defensive end, finishing third on the team in tackles and led the team with 5.5 sacks. He'll initially make the move to the inside to take advantage of his size and his tackling ability. Patrick Howard, Jr. - Assuming Siofele will be a fixture in the middle, the other inside spot is up for grabs. The 225-pound Howard, who made 30 tackles last year, will battle with John McKinney and a host of other players for the job. Copeland Bryan, Soph. - Bryan was a solid pass rusher last year making 7.5 tackles for loss and five sacks. The former walk-on has become one of the team's better producers and will be a terror coming off the edge. Top Backups - Matt Molina, Sr - Molina has seen starting time on the outside and will push Torrey for time. He made 20 tackles last year. Kirk Johnson, Jr. - Johnson is neck and neck and neck for the inside spot alongside Siofele. He made 29 tackles last year and should be an impact player yet again. John McKinney, Soph. - A scout team superstar, McKinney has the motor and the speed to be a force on the inside. Andre Torrey, Jr. - Torrey was never healthy last year with a hip injury keeping him out. Before he got hurt, he looked like he'd be a star in last spring with his pass rushing ability and his overall athleticism.

Secondary - Cornerback Gary Love, Sr. - Love took over when Michael Jolivette went down and had a decent season. Love broke up five passes and made 39 tackles when needed. With Jolivette back, he might be a backup again. Free safety Darrell Brooks, Soph. - The 6-0 Brooks has the speed to play corner to go along with his tackling ability, but he's needed at safety. He made 50 tackles and broke up three passes last year. Strong safety Lamon Means, Soph. - The 6-3, 190-pound Means was named one of the spring's most improved players. He was so strong that Clay Hardt was moved over to strong safety. Cornerback Michael Jolivette, Sr. - One of the best corners in the country, Jolivette went down with a knee injury and the pass defense took a major hit. If he's healthy and back in the good graces of the coaching staff, he'll start again. Top Backups - Cornerback Jason Martin, Soph. - Martin was listed this spring as the starter, but Jolivette ended up taking over at corner. Martin made three tackles as a reserve last year and will be pushed for time this season by JUCO transfer Zeonte Sherman. Cornerback Zeonte Sherman, Jr. - A big, experienced corner, Sherman comes from the JUCO ranks to push for time right away at either corner spot. Strong safety Tony Wingate, Jr. - In ten games, Wingate made ten tackles and broke up a pass. He's 6-1 and 200 pounds with great potential. Free safety Clay Hardt, Sr. - One of the leaders of the secondary, Hardt was fourth on the team with 65 tackles. He's big and fast with nice instinct splitting time with Brooks at free safety. Special Teams - Placekicker Bobby Gill, Jr. - Gill split the kicking duties last season hitting seven of 11, but he got three kicks blocked. He has a nice leg, but he lacks a bit of boom. Punter Danny Baugher, Soph. - Baugher struggled a bit last year as a freshman, but he should make a leap up after a year of experience. He only averaged 37.7 yards per kick and put a mere five inside the 20.

ARIZONA STATE

HEAD COACH: DIRK KOETTER

For most college football coaches in their second year at the helm, an 8-6 season capped by an appearance in a major bowl game is considered a remarkable accomplishment. But if you know anything about ASU's Dirk Koetter, you know he's not like most head coaches. Koetter, who serves as his own offensive coordinator, likes to throw deep or run flea flickers when a situation calls for a conservative play. He runs double reverses to wide receivers, giving them rare touches behind the line of scrimmage. So it comes as no surprise that a year after a trip to the Holiday Bowl, Koetter is envisioning much bigger things. The Sun Devils hope to take that next step this fall when they return the nucleus of a team that finished third in the Pac-10 after being tabbed to finish ninth in the preseason polls. They lost their share of stars in defensive end Terrell Suggs and wide receiver Shaun McDonald, both of whom left early for the NFL, but the Sun Devils return more than enough depth on both sides of the ball to head back to the promised land. Koetter sets countless goals for his team, many of which are achieved at various stages throughout the season. ASU's primary long-term goal for the upcoming season is to get to the Rose Bowl.

The Offense - Quarterback - In Koetter's offensive system, the quarterback is the spearhead of the operation. With more than a handful of competent signal-callers, Koetter can rest easily at night. Coming off a sensational sophomore season in which he established himself as one of the premier quarterbacks in the Pac-10, junior Andrew Walter is in search of more big things. Walter not only enters the season as the hands-down starter, but he also carries a nice feather in his cap. Several media outlets have him among a group of candidates for the Heisman Trophy. Walter, who has been selected by his teammates as a team co-captain with safety Riccardo Stewart for 2003, hopes to back up that honor by posting numbers similar to those he put up in 2002. Last year, Walter completed 56.7 percent of his passes for a school-record 3,877 yards. He threw 28 touchdowns, which ranked second on the ASU single-season charts and just one touchdown shy of the school record. He became the first Sun Devil quarterback in school history to reach the 3,000-yard plateau in a single season and almost hit the 4,000-yard mark. After starting four games to open the 2002 season, sophomore Chad Christensen will compete for the No. 2 spot this spring/fall with redshirt freshman Kellen Bradley. Christensen completed 27 of 64 passes in eight games last season. He also threw three touchdowns. Bradley was listed by SuperPrep Magazine as the state's 16th-best prospect after his senior year at Scottsdale's Saguaro High School. In his final season, he led the state with 3,085 yards passing and 38 touchdowns. Christensen (knee) and Bradley (left shoulder) have both recovered from minor surgery in the off-season. Koetter says either quarterback could claim the backup role. Freshman Mike Affleck heads to Tempe rated as the 11th-best quarterback in the nation by SuperPrep. He threw 22 touchdowns and only nine interceptions during his senior season at Timpview High School in Provo, Utah. Freshman Sam Keller has a build similar to that of Affleck, and his numbers at San Ramon Valley High School in Danville, Calif., were just as impressive. Keller threw for 3,282 yards in his senior campaign with 38 touchdowns and only five interceptions.

Running Back - ASU's tailback situation includes senior Mike Williams and sophomore Cornell Canidate. The top spot belongs to Williams this fall after neither of the rushers solidified themselves as the primary back last season. Despite missing some action late in the season due to a series of ankle injuries, Canidate still got the most touches last year. He carried the ball 130 times for 493 yards, scoring seven TDs in 11 games. Williams also found the end zone seven times. He played in all 14 games, rushing for 482 yards. Williams was ASU's Player of the Game in the 2002 regular-season finale vs. Arizona with 162 yards and four touchdowns on 40 carries in the second 100-yard game of his career. Senior Jermaine McKinney appeared in six games last season, rushing 13 times for 24 yards. Redshirt freshmen Randy Hill and Loren Wade are expected to make an immediate impact. Wade was ranked as the sixth-best running back in the West by PrepStar after his senior season at Serra High School in Gardena, Calif., and Hill, a local product from Tempe's McClintock High School, was tabbed at the No. 8 spot by the same publication. Fullback - Although senior Mike Karney didn't touch the ball much last season in Koetter's pass-filled offense, he is still considered by many as one of the nation's best fullbacks. He possesses both the size and speed to protect the quarterback in pass-rushing situations. Karney appeared in all 14 games last year, carrying the ball eight times for 20 yards. He also had 13 catches for 121 yards. Sophomore Mike Talbot emerged as a viable backup to Karney, playing in 11 games last season. He had 11 yards on four carries. After spending all of last season on the scout team, sophomore Joseph Aboussie hopes to make more of an impact this year.

Wide Receiver - The Sun Devils return several explosive wide receivers, even with the departure of Shaun McDonald, a two-time All-Pac-10 performer who left early for the NFL. They return three of their top four wide-outs from a year ago in junior Daryl Lightfoot, sophomore Derek Hagan and senior Skyler Fulton. Fulton looks to do more in his final year in Tempe after averaging 26.4 yards receiving per game (on 30 receptions) as a junior. He is capable of playing all of the different wide receiver spots and seems to be a favorite target of Walter's. Last season, Lightfoot caught 40 passes for 552 yards, an average of 13.8 yards per catch. He also scored two touchdowns, one of which came on an 85-yard reception in ASU's 55-38 home loss to California. Hagan marked 32 receptions for 405 yards in his first year removed from Palmdale (Calif.) High School. He figures to carry an increased load this fall. His 32 catches broke the ASU freshman record of 30 set by College Football Hall of Famer John Jefferson in 1974. Koetter is also high on Matt Miller, a sophomore from Mesa Mountain View High School who shined during winter practices in preparation for the Holiday Bowl. Last season, Miller made six catches, two of which went for 68 yards in ASU's dramatic win at Oregon. Perhaps the most underrated player in the Sun Devil receiving corps is redshirt freshman Terry Richardson, last year's offensive scout team player of the year. Coming out of Centennial High School in Corona, Calif., Richardson earned All-America status from PrepStar and was rated as the third-best wide receiver in the West. Sophomore Moey Mutz and true freshman Rudy Burgess, a versatile player who saw time at both wide receiver and defensive back for four years at Desert High School in Edwards, Calif., will vie for playing time in 2003.

Tight End - The Sun Devils have a big gap to fill at tight end due to the graduation of Mike Pinkard. Lee Burghgraef saw more playing time than Maddox last year, however, he didn't get involved offensively when stuck behind Pinkard. He caught one pass in 13 games in 2002. Maddox appeared in 13 games last season, but was rarely used as a target and had only two catches for 37 yards. ASU's most highly-touted incoming tight end is junior Aaron Austin, who signed with the team for the second consecutive year. After completing a productive sophomore season at Fresno (Calif.) Community College in which he scored nine touchdowns in 10 regular-season games, Austin enrolled in classes during the spring semester at ASU while participating in workouts with the Sun Devils. Having bulked up since entering camp last fall, redshirt freshman Jamaal Lewis wants to have an impact this season. Lewis still isn't as big as some of ASU's other tight ends, but his contributions might be just as meaningful. Of all 21 signees, true freshman Brent Miller is, perhaps, the most versatile in the bunch. During his days at Phoenix's Desert Vista High School, Miller played linebacker, quarterback, fullback, tight end and wide receiver.

Offensive Line - Heading into last season, the Sun Devils had to replace five seniors along the offensive line, four of whom were drafted in the NFL. This year, the Sun Devils won't have to worry about experienced depth being a problem. ASU returns all five starters up front, including senior right guard Regis Crawford, senior left guard Tim Fa'aita, senior center Tony Aguilar, junior right guard Drew Hodgdon and sophomore left tackle Chaz White. A year after moving from center and guard to left tackle, Crawford will head back to his old spot at right guard this season. He is backed up by Hodgdon, who may also see time at center in place of Aguilar and Zach Krula, who is coming off of a redshirt season. Aguilar might also play guard. Fa'aita remains at left guard, having solidified himself as one of ASU's most consistent forces on the offensive line during the second half of last season. Playing behind him is Adrian Ayala, who started five games at right tackle and is still recovering from a severe ankle injury suffered at Washington State and aggravated during spring workouts. Koetter decided to move White from right tackle to left tackle, a position he hopes White will occupy for the next three years. White will compete with redshirt freshman Andrew Carnahan at left tackle. Redshirt freshman Stephen Berg and sophomore Grayling Love will compete for the starting right tackle position. Berg doesn't have game experience, but Koetter calls him a "prototype of what you are looking for at that spot." Love filled in at right tackle last season, however, he came to ASU as a center and can play any spot on the line. Sophomore Chad Rosson will provide back-up at right tackle. Four freshman offensive linemen signed with ASU in February, including Robert Gustavis, Julius Orieukwu, Mike Pollak and Brandon Rodd.

The Defense - Defensive Line - It's impossible for the Sun Devils to replace Suggs, a unanimous All-American and the most decorated player in school history, but they've got a number of players that will try to fill his shoes. Senior tackles Brian Montesanto and Shane Jones and junior end Jimmy Verdon anchor a defensive line that is a key component to ASU's success. Last year, Verdon, an honorable-mention All-Pac-10 selection, acted as the understudy to Suggs, who recorded an NCAA-record 24 sacks in 14 games. Verdon will line up at either end and can also move inside to defensive tackle during obvious pass (Cobra) situations. Sophomore defensive end Nick Johnson is penciled in opposite Verdon. He will be used as an every down player this season after playing extensively in the Cobra pass rush unit last year. Junior Connor Banks, a converted linebacker who has speed off the edge, will be asked to contribute on the line this season. Although he has played primarily as a defensive end, he is also good on special teams. Montesanto, who has started 29 games over the last three years, made the successful switch from end to tackle and was one of the main reasons ASU improved its overall team speed a year ago. After tallying 44 tackles in 14 games last year, Jones will be looked upon to help stop the run again this season. Sophomore defensive tackle Josh Kirkwood could find himself somewhere on the depth chart, along with junior Gabe Reininger, a transfer from Moorpark (Calif.) College who resembles Jones. Senior Matt Mason figures to continue pushing for playing time at both the tackle and end positions. Also providing depth along the defensive line is redshirt freshman Rickey Parker, who can play either end or tackle. He excelled on the scout team last season. At 309 pounds, redshirt freshman Ali Likio has few problems stopping the run. Junior Jared Wolfgramm, who appeared in six games last year, could be used as a replacement at defensive end. True freshman Kyle Caldwell comes to ASU after a star-studded senior season at Saguaro High School in Scottsdale in which he recorded 131 tackles, 34 tackles for loss, 30 sacks, 29 quarterback hurries, four forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries. True freshman Brett Palmer will also compete as a defensive tackle. Another local product from Marcos de Niza High School in Tempe, he led his team in sacks and tackles for loss during his junior and senior seasons.

Linebacker - With the departure of three talented seniors, sophomore Jamar Williams will undoubtedly assume the leadership role among the linebacking corps. Williams made great strides last season not only on defense but also on special teams. Sophomore Barton Hammit will be a key component in ASU's 4-2-5 defense, which looked much better last year as players became familiar with it and developed a trust in it. Hammit, who played in seven games as a true freshman in 2001, returned from knee surgery last fall and looked impressive in winter conditioning. After earning Most Valuable Player honors on ASU's defensive scout team last season, redshirt freshman Jordan Hill hopes to make his impact felt this year. Hill hails from Highland High School in Pocatello, Idaho, the same school Koetter attended. Junior Justin Burks has taken a liking to life on the Tempe campus in his first year removed from Cerritos Community College in Norwalk, Calif. Koetter calls him "one of the best junior college linebackers in the country." Freshman De'Andre Johnson could redshirt this season, providing opportunities for others to make some noise. Junior Ishmael Thrower, a converted defensive end who redshirted last year due to a hamstring injury, has the versatility to play on special teams and in the Cobra package as a defensive end. Senior Tyrone Bowers made three tackles in four games last season, while true freshman Mark Washington joins the team in the fall after totaling 165 tackles, 28 tackles for loss, nine sacks and eight forced fumbles in two years at Long Beach (Calif.) Poly High School.

Cornerback - Anything the Sun Devils lack in experience at cornerback, they'll easily make up for in speed. Junior R.J. Oliver, a two-year starter and an honorable-mention All-Pac-10 performer last season, is one of the fastest players on the team, while junior Chris McKenzie has run the 40-yard dash in 4.3 seconds in junior college. Junior Emmanuel Franklin and sophomores Josh Golden and Mike Davis Jr. will line up on the other side of Oliver. Franklin hopes to return to the team this fall after recovering from brain surgery, while Davis is a taller, physical corner who is vying for more playing time. Golden is looking to build upon a productive freshman campaign in which he had 33 tackles in 14 games. Golden will also return kickoffs. ASU added depth to the cornerback position with the signing of McKenzie, a transfer from Glendale (Calif.) Community College who was rated as a first-team All-American by JNCAA last year. Freshman Chad Green, who collected 30 tackles and five interceptions as a senior at Birmingham High School in Van Nuys, Calif., also caught 48 passes for 1,141 yards and 17 touchdowns in 14 games as a wide receiver. Safety - Despite the loss of Alfred Williams to graduation, the Sun Devils are well-stocked at safety with more than enough depth to last through the 12-game season. Juniors Jason Shivers and Riccardo Stewart, both honorable-mention All-Pac-10 selections a year ago, combined for 204 tackles last year despite Stewart missing four games with a shoulder injury. Stewart will also serve as a team co-captain in 2003 along with quarterback Andrew Walter. Originally recruited as a safety out of Grossmont Junior College in El Cajon, Calif., senior Brett Hudson played cornerback last season after injuries depleted ASU's secondary. He will compete for one of the starting strong safety positions this fall after a successful junior campaign in which he made 52 tackles in 12 games and had the game-saving interception in ASU's upset at then sixth-ranked Oregon. ASU also has plenty of depth in sophomores Joey Smith and Matt Fawley. Smith played well at the end of last season, while Fawley appeared in eight games as a true freshman, earning four starts before going down with a broken arm. Koetter likes the versatility of sophomore Lamar Baker, who added muscle in the off-season to help ease his switch from cornerback to safety. Baker played in only two games last year before being sidelined with a season-ending injury and receiving a medical redshirt. J.W. Lucas redshirted last season. He played quarterback at Cactus High School in Phoenix, but he worked out as a safety on the scout team last fall. Daniel Varvel is one of ASU's three true freshman safeties. He comes to Tempe from Bakersfield (Calif.) High School with a reputation for being able to deliver big hits. True freshmen Josh Barrett and Darnel Henderson aren't as highly billed as Varvel but have the potential to be just as good. Last season, Barrett made five interceptions as Reno (Nev.) High School amassed an unblemished 11-0 record before being defeated in the Northern 4A championship game. As a senior at McClymonds High School in Oakland, Henderson also collected five interceptions, two of which he returned for touchdowns.

CALIFORNIA

HEAD COACH: JEFF TEDFORD

When University of California Athletic Director Steve Gladstone hired Jeff Tedford to revive a sagging Golden Bears football program last year, one local sportswriter gazed in his crystal ball and made a bold prediction about the new head coach. Wrote veteran Oakland Tribune columnist Carl Steward: “Tedford will be a name everyone will know in short order when he leads Cal out of the college football swamp…(he) has the look, the sound and the feel of a guy who can be what one observer termed, ‘Cal’s first ‘legacy’ coach since Pappy Waldorf.’ Here’s betting that assessment, and Gladstone’s instincts, are right on.” Right on, indeed. While it may be a bit premature to make lofty comparisons to the legendary Waldorf—who chiseled out a 67-32-4 record in 10 years as Cal coach, including a 39-3- 1 mark and three consecutive Rose Bowl appearances from 1948-50—when it came to first impressions, Tedford almost scored off the charts in 2002. What he did in resurrecting the California football program almost overnight was nothing short of incredible. For the Bears to continue to lay a winning foundation in Year Two of the Tedford tenure, the Cal coach, much like last season, will not rely on any magic formulas but simply hard work. “We need to do what we’ve been doing from Day 1 when we got here,” he stressed. “We don’t talk about how many games we’re going to win. Just take care of the little things and the big things will take care of themselves. Our goal is always to compete for the Pac-10 championship. And that’s a day-to-day proposition.” The 2003 schedule will be another challenge for Tedford and his Golden Bears. No less than eight of their 12 opponents were bowl teams last year. The pre-conference slate includes Southern Mississippi and Colorado State at Memorial Stadium, as well as stern road tests at Utah and Illinois. The Bears christen the Pac-10 season by hosting conference co-champion USC on Sept. 27. “There are no soft spots,” admits Tedford. “We have a very strong preseason schedule. And the Pac-10 is tough every Saturday.” Tedford hopes the same can be said about his 2003 Bears.

A position-by-position breakdown of the team, as it enters the 2003 season - The departure of Boller, who completed his career as the school’s all-time TD pass king (64) and No. 2 passing yardage (7,980) leader, leaves large void in the Golden Bears’ offense in 2003. Yet, Tedford—the man who has developed the likes of Trent Dilfer, David Carr, Akili Smith and Joey Harrington into NFL first-round draft choices—has a way of reloading at the quarterback position. Most likely candidates to succeed the laser-armed Boller are returning junior Reggie Robertson and JC transfer Aaron Rodgers, a sophomore from Butte College. Robertson, whose ’02 duty consisted of cameo appearances (2-for-2, 64 yds., 1 TD) in two games as Boller’s under-study, saw more significant time as a redshirt freshman in 2001. He played in four games that season—including starts against Oregon State and Arizona—completing 43.1 percent of his passes (28 of 65) for 298 yards, one touchdown and one interception, while rushing for 49 yards and another score. Rodgers, listed as the No. 41 best junior college player the country by SuperPrep magazine, set school records in passing for 2,408 yards and 28 TDs for a 10-1 Butte team that earned a No. 2 national JuCo ranking. In completing 61.9 per-cent of his passes, he only threw four interceptions all season long. Other quarterbacks who may figure in the mix are sophomore Richard Schwartz and redshirt fresh-man Steve Levy, both ’02 holdovers, as well as fresh-man Cary Dove, who passed for 3,277 yards and 31 TDs at Taft High last fall. Schwartz is a former PrepStar All-American from Huntington Beach’s Edison High, while Levy was the 2001 North Jersey Player of the Year at Don Bosco Prep. Reggie Robertson -Another Cal legend leaves the program this year, as the school’s No. 2 career rusher Joe Igber (3,124 yards) graduates.

Vying for his tailback position is a bevy of quality ball carriers, led by veteran returnees Achimchinobe Echemandu (formerly Joe Echema) and Terrell Williams. Echemandu, a fifth-year senior who has yet to see extensive playing time due to medical and academic issues, is an intriguing player. He was, perhaps, the story of last year’s spring practice sessions, performing so well that Tedford had given him the starting nod over the more accomplished Igber. However, the former prep All-American from Hawthorne High School tore his ACL and lateral meniscus in the final week of spring practice, sidelining him for the entire 2002 campaign. A big and explosive back, he figures to have an inside track for the starting spot this fall if he can return to his previous form. Meanwhile, Williams is another back who may be on the verge of greatness. Two years ago as a true freshman, he replaced an injured Igber at midseason and averaged 105 yards per game in the final five contests of the season, leading the Bears with 688 rushing yards overall. The Pac-10’s No. 8 rusher that season, Williams bolted for a Cal freshmen-record 185 yards in the final game at Rutgers. With Igber almost used exclusively for much of last season, Williams’ sophomore season was less eventful, carrying the ball only 37 times for 139 yards before he, too, was shelved with a season-ending knee injury after Game 9. If Echemandu or Williams do not show signs of full recovery, the door might swing open for redshirt-freshman Marcus O’Keith or JC transfer J.J. Arrington. O’Keith zoomed for more than 3,300 yards and 35 touchdowns rushing as a prep All-American at Narbonne High in Carson two years ago, while Arrington barreled for 769 yards and 19 touchdowns on only 135 carries for College of the Canyon’s high-octane offense that averaged 54.5 points per game last season.

Sophomore Chris Manderino is the incumbent at fullback, primarily a blocking position in the Tedford offense. Manderino, who rushed for 31 yards on eight carries and caught six passes for 68 yards and one TD, started seven of the Bears’ 12 games last year as a freshman walk-on. He will be backed up by senior Steve Torgerson and redshirt-freshman Byron Storer. Terrell Williams -Senior Jonathan Makonnen, whose 54 receptions last year led all Cal receivers and ranked ninth in the Pac-10, returns to anchor a solid group of wide receivers that also includes part-time starter Geoff McArthur, who snared 36 passes for 454 yards and one TD in 2002 as the team’s No. 4 pass-catcher. Makonnen, who transferred from national champion City College of San Francisco last year, caught at least three passes in 11 of the Bears’ 12 games in piling up 682 yards and seven touchdowns through the air. McArthur opened the 2002 campaign by averaging 6.0 receptions per contest in starting Cal’s first five games, amassing 30 catches for 59 yards and a TD during that stretch. A hamstring injury sidelined him soon thereafter, and he started only one game the rest of the season. Other returning receivers with promise include senior Vincent Strang (5 rec., 100 yds., 1 TD), redshirt freshman David Gray, and juniors Chase Lyman and Burl Toler. Gray—a former prep All-American at Oakland’s McClymonds High—helped christen the Tedford Era by collaborating with Terrell Williams on a spectacular first play of the season in the Baylor game, racing for a 71-yard touch-down off a halfback pass from Williams. Soon there-after, however, Gray was sidelined with a shoulder injury, which led to a redshirt season. Lyman, who corralled a combined 28 passes for 419 yards and three TDs in his first two seasons at Cal, missed the entire 2002 slate with a hamstring injury that required post-season surgery.

Two incoming freshmen who may also demand attention are prep All-American Devin Stearns, a 4.4 sprinter from Serra High, and two-time national Fred Biletnikoff award winner Sam DeSa, who caught 166 passes for 3,154 yards and 40 touch-downs during his career at nearby Monte Vista High. In the Bears’ new offensive system, the tight end position became an offensive weapon for the first time in many years in 2002. Tom Swoboda, who had managed only eight career receptions entering his senior season, erupted for 42 catches for 451 yards and seven touchdowns in leading all Pac-10 tight ends in receptions and TDs. The 2003 season is a good news, bad news proposition at the tight end spot. The bad news: Swoboda has graduated. The good news: the cupboard is far from empty. Brandon Hall, who transferred from Orange Coast College as an accomplished pass-catcher last year, appears to have the inside track at the starting job. Hall, whose banged-up ankle limited his production to eight catches for 79 yards last year, is fully healthy and should return to his 2001 form when he snatched 26 passes for 295 yards and two TDs at Orange Coast. He may be severely challenged, however, by the arrival of another tight end transfer in first team JC All-American Garrett Cross, a teammate of Rodgers at Butte College last year. Cross hauled in 39 passes for 590 yards and led all of the state’s tight ends in touchdown catches with 10. Two returnees add further depth to the position, with junior Jordon Hunter, a former Pac-10 All-Freshman first team selection, and sophomore Eric Beegun, who impressed in last year’s practices after catching 25 passes for 621 yards and nine TDs at Palisades High School two seasons ago.

One of the most stable areas of the Golden Bears, the 2003 offensive line features three returning starters and 11 players who have varsity game experience. All-Pac-10 honorable mention left tackle Mark Wilson, the only Cal interior lineman to start all 34 games over the past three seasons, is the senior cornerstone of this unit. The 6-6, 295-pound veteran played a key role in protecting Boller last year, as the Bears tied for the Pac-10 lead in fewest sacks allowed (25). Senior tackle Chris Murphy (6-6, 310) and junior Jonathan Giesel (6-4, 300) also return as starters on the right side of the line. Marvin Phillip, who’s back from a two-year Mormon mission in North Dakota, will be trying to reclaim his starting center job. He played in six games in 2000 as a true freshman, starting the final two contests of the season against Oregon and Stanford. Others who will battle for playing time in ’03 include tackles Ryan O’Callaghan (12 games in ’02), Aaron Merz (9 games) Jonathan Murphy (4 games) and Derek Joyce (3 games), guards David Hays (8 games, 1 start) and Derek Deutsch (3 games), and guard-center Nolan Bluntzer (1 game). Redshirt-freshmen Michael Gray (6-6, 320), Paul Fraley (6-4, 300) and Erik Robertson (6-7, 315) may also emerge this season. While the leadership of departing senior guard Scott Tercero, an All-Pac-10 second team pick in 2002, will be missed, the Bears have reason to believe that this year’s offensive line could be improved over last year’s unit. A year ago, the Bears’ defensive line was one of the most experienced and deepest in the Pac-10, and arguably the strongest area of the team.

Unfortunately, defensive line coach Ken Delgado was forced to say good-bye to the likes of All-Pac-10 first team selection Tully Banta-Cain (13) and All-Pac-10 honorable mention pick Tom Canada (12), who combined for 25 sacks as Cal’s starting ends, and veteran tackle Daniel Nwangwu, a four-year starter. With their departure, the Golden Bears must rely heavily on the emergence of three returning tackles in All-Pac- 10 honorable mention junior Lorenzo Alexander (25 tackles, one sack, two blocked kicks in ’02), senior Josh Beckham (18 tackles, three sacks) and junior Tom Svercheck (10 tackles). Alexander, a former Pac-10 All-Freshman first teamer and prep All-American at St. Mary’s High of Berkeley, started six games last year. With the line so depleted with its senior losses, recruiting defensive line talent was a high priority this off-season. From all indications, Cal’s coaching staff was successful in replenishing that lost talent. The only question is, are they ready to excel on the Pac-10 level? In nabbing seven defensive linemen in the recruiting wars, the 2003 Bears feature five prep stars who were all ranked among California’s Top 100 players by Rivals.com—tackles Leon Drummer (Berkeley’s St. Mary’s High), Matt Malele (Carson High), Brandon Mebane (L.A. Crenshaw High) and Josh Tauanu’u (Long Beach Poly High), and end Kyle McClure (Oaks Christian— and two JC ends, Ryan Riddle (El Camino College) and Ray Tago (Long Beach City College), who were both listed among PrepStar magazine’s Top 125 junior college players in the nation.

Other ’02 hold-overs that could contribute include senior end Monte Parson, junior tackle L.P. Ladouceur and sophomore tackle Brandon Povio, all of whom saw sparse playing time last fall. Gone are Matt Nixon (61 tackles, 3.5 sacks in ’02), Marcus Daniels (68 tackles), John Klotsche (13 tackles in 2 games) and Paul Ugenti (37 tackles), as junior Wendell Hunter represents the only five career Cal starts on this fall’s linebacking corps. Hunter, a vicious hitter who has impressed with his speed and instincts, was the Bears’ sixth-leading tackler last year with 43 stops. He will be asked to provide leadership to this experienced group, which also features inside men Brian Tremblay and Sid Slater, both reserves last year, and Modesto JC transfer Ryan Estes, who caught the coaches’ eye in August drills before missing the season with a strained Achilles tendon. Tremblay quietly contributed 27 tackles off the bench last year. One incoming linebacker who may challenge for starting duty is Joe Maningo, a JC Gridwire second team All-American from nearby Foothill College, where he shredded foes for 127 tackles (including 33 for losses), 15 sacks, 24 quarterback hurries, four forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries last season. Also, two prep All-Americans who could demand playing time as true freshmen are Garrett Tremblay, Brian’s younger brother who stockpiled 233 tackles and 12 sacks at Palm Desert High during the past two seasons and Chris Purtz, who reeled off 156 tackles and 15 sacks at Clovis West High in 2002.

Another area that was decimated by departing seniors was the defensive secondary, where All-Pac-10 second team cornerback Jemeel Powell (No. 7 career interception leader with 10), veteran cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha (53 tackles, 3 interceptions, 10 passes broken up), and free safety Bert Watts (team-leading 80 tackles) were stalwarts last season. The only returning starters—both appearing in the opening lineup in seven games—are senior cornerback James Bethea, who tied for sixth in the Pac-10 with four interceptions last year and added 42 tackles, and sophomore rover Donnie McCleskey, who averaged 5.4 tackles per game as a starter and posted 45 stops, five passes broken up and one interception in a brilliant freshman campaign in 2002. Other returnees who will need to step up this fall are juniors Ryan Gutierrez (14 tackles, one fumble recovery) and All-Pac-10 second team special teams whiz Mike McGrath (21 tackles), and sophomores Wale For-ester, Will Scott and Obi Amajoyi. Fresno City College transfer Matt Giordano should provide a veteran force at safety in his initial Pac-10 season, while freshman cornerbacks Daymeion Hughes (L.A. Crenshaw High), Brandon Myles (Carson High), Brandon Sanders (Oakland’s Skyline High) and Thomas DeCoud (Pinole Valley High) are all speed merchants who can close fast. Tedford and position coach J.D. Williams are prepared to play some incoming high school recruits immediately, knowing full well that there will be early mistakes of inexperience.

OREGON

HEAD COACH: MIKE BELLOTI

This is still an offense trying to find some consistency. The quarterback situation isn't any more settled than it was at the beginning of spring ball. The Ducks lost running back Onterrio Smith early, but there are four good prospects ready to take over. The receivers weren't healthy this spring, so Oregon still doesn't quite know how the rotation is going to work out. If some tackles emerge, the line will be strong. Quarterbacks - Kellen Clemens, Soph. - Clemens stepped in to relieve Jason Fife at times last year, and was often more effective finishing the season with 201 passing yards, two touchdowns and an interception. He isn't as big as Fife and doesn't quite have the same arm, but provides a little bit more spark. There will be a battle for the starting job up until the opener, but if the season were to start now, Clemens would get the gig. Top Backups - Jason Fife, Sr. - Fife is a big player with a big arm and good talent. He had a good season taking over for Joey Harrington throwing for 2,752 yards and 24 touchdowns. He threw ten interceptions and had problems, at times, moving the offense. He regressed a little bit at the end of spring ball, but that doesn't mean too much since he'll get every chance at the starting job this summer. Johnny DuRocher, Fr. - The freshman looked strong enough this spring to move ahead of Scott Vossmeyer and force Andy Collins to move to the defense. He came to Oregon early taking advantage of the spring session.

Running Backs - Chris Vincent, RFr. - Vincent isn't Onterrio Smith, but he's a decent clone. The 218-pound redshirt freshman showed tremendous cutting ability this spring along with breakaway speed. The Duck offense had problems once Smith went down last year, so a game-breaking back like Vincent could be just what's needed to get everything rolling again. - Fullback Mark Floberg, Sr. - Floberg was out for most of the spring recovering from shoulder surgery. He'll return to his starting fullback job used solely as a lead blocker, and as a receiver making 12 catches for 70 yards and two touchdowns. Top Backups - Ryan Shaw, Jr. - Shaw saw limited action last season rushing for 74 yards. He isn't quite as speedy as the other Oregon backs, but he's incredibly strong with the potential to be the workhorse. - Terrence Whitehead, Soph. - Whitehead is another big, quick back in the Oregon mix. He had a strong spring game rushing for 46 yards making a big push for the starting job. - Kenny Washington, Jr. - Even though he has the talent to be a top back, he can't stay healthy. He's suffered a bad ankle injury early last season, and now he's nursing a bad shoulder. If he's 100%, he's too good to keep off the field. - Jerome Johnson, Fr. - Johnson was a highly recruited linebacker, and might still end up on the defensive side. He'll start out backing up Floberg at fullback.

Receivers - Samie Parker, Sr. - The bad news this spring was that Parker missed most of spring ball as a star member of the Oregon track team. The good news is that Parker has the top speed to actually be a star member of the Oregon track team.. He turned into the go-to guy last season making 49 catches for 724 yards and eight touchdowns including an 80-yard scoring grab. He lit up the spring game catching seven passes for 135 yards and a touchdown. - Demetrius Williams, Soph. - It's an open casting call for the wide receiver jobs. With Parker off running track and Keith Allen and Kellen Taylor banged up, the 6-2 Williams took over showing good speed and nice athleticism. Tight end Tim Day, Soph. - The battle for the starting tight end job appeared wide open when spring ball opened. Day closed it shut as a solid receiver, and outstanding blocker. Top Backups - Kellen Taylor, Jr. - Taylor was supposed to shine as one of the top stars this spring. That didn't happen as a strained foot ligament kept him from doing much. Even so, he's expected to be in the mix for a starting job this fall. Keith Allen, Jr. - Allen is a physical receiver with a little bit of experience catching three passes for 54 yards last season. He isn't necessarily fast, but he has functional football speed. He the strongest Oregon receiver and a good blocker. Marcus Maxwell, Jr. - The muddled Oregon receiving situation gets even crazier this fall when the 6-4 JUCO star comes to Eugene. He isn't a blazer, but he's fast enough to get by most defensive backs, and strong enough to overpower the smaller ones. Tight end Eddie Whitaker, Jr. - The JUCO transfer has the athleticism and talent, but he needs to get the subtle nuances of the offense down before he can make a big impact.

Offensive Line- Tackle Adam Snyder, Jr. - The 310-pound Snyder will be pushing for one of the tackle jobs, and can play guard as well. He's an experienced reserve player seeing plenty of action this spring with Joey Forster out. - Guard Nick Steitz, Jr. - The 305-pound Steitz will start again on the left side. He's a great combination of strength and athleticism. - Center Dan Weaver, Sr. - Weaver emerged last year as one of the top centers in the Pac 10. He's a rock of a player providing a veteran anchor in the middle. - Guard Joey Forster, Sr. - Forster has been one of the most dependable players on the line for the last three years. He isn't a mauler, but he's a technically sound player able to open up big holes. The starting job on the right side is his again after missing time this spring with a knee injury. Tackle Mike DeLaGrange, Jr. - The 328-pound DeLaGrange has gotten in far better shape than he was last year. He's still working on being a more effective pass blocker, but he's outstanding in the running game. Top Backups - C/T Robby Knebel, Jr. - Knebel will get a shot at the left tackle job, but will get a shot at center. The 316-pound junior has had problems with injuries, but he's big enough and strong enough to play anywhere on the line. T Josh Atkins, Jr. - The 319-pound Atkins will combine with Josh Hagemeyer and Shawn Perkins to push for time at tackle. Atkins is a former defensive lineman still learning how to play on the offensive side. C Enoka Lucas, RFr. - Lucas saw extensive action this spring getting action in the spring game. The 290-pound redshirt freshman will be groomed to be the team's future center for when Weaver is gone.

Oregon's defense was strong upfront, but pathetic against the pass getting burnt by everyone. This year's Duck defense has a more experienced secondary, so now there needs to be more production. The run defense should continue to be strong loaded at tackle. Defensive Line - Defensive end Chris Solomona, Jr. - The JUCO transfer is a big player apparently solid at stopping the run. He isn't a speed rusher, so the 275-pound junior has to use his strength to get into the backfield. He couldn't stay healthy this spring, but the Ducks are so thin on the end that he should end up starting come fall. - Defensive tackle Igor Olshansky, Jr. - The 305-pound Olshansky missed all of spring ball recovering from back surgery. Oregon desperately needs him back to give the line experience and leadership after finishing fourth on the team with 70 tackles. He also made four sacks and nine tackles for loss. Defensive tackle Haloti Ngata, Soph. - The top recruit is turning into everything the Duck coaching staff thought it was getting. The 339-pound sophomore got plenty of chances to play this spring with injuries to the rest of the line, and he made the most of it. He could end up starting at one of the tackle spots either winning one of the jobs, or filling in if Olshansky's back isn't right after making 44 tackles and 3.5 sacks last year. Defensive end Quinn Dorsey, Sr. - The 270-pound Dorsey gives the Ducks another big player on the end. Even at his size, he's still very fast and very athletic as one of the team's top pas rushers. He missed last year redshirting after violating NCAA rules from taking some discounts off his apartment rent. Top Backups DT Junior Siavii, Sr. - With Olshansky out this spring, Suavii got a chance to cement himself as one of the team's better tackles. The 323-pound senior isn't as talented as Olshansky is, but he should be a top run stopper as the year goes on. DT Robby Valenzuela, Jr. - He was dinged up after this spring, but the 275-pound junior is expected to be a factor in the tackle rotation this fall. He made 14 tackles and three sacks last year. DE Devan Long, Soph. - Long needs to be back and healthy to give the line some speed on the end. He had problems with his hamstring this spring missing most of the practices.

Linebackers - David Martin, Sr. - Martin has all the tools to be a top outside linebacker with good athleticism and nice hitting ability, but he can't stay healthy. He made 21 tackles in nine games starting in four games. - Jerry Matson, Jr. - Matson became a valuable reserve making 25 tackles. He's only 224 pounds, but he proved to be a good backup behind Mitchell in the middle, and he should be strong enough to handle the job full-time with Mitchell on the weak side. - Kevin Mitchell, Sr. - The Ducks desperately need him to be healthy. After missing most of this spring with knee problems, the linebacking corps didn't look nearly as strong. He's a 220-pound guided missile making 114 tackles and six sacks last year making plays all over the field. Top Backups - Marcus Miller, Jr. - Once he joins the team this fall, the JUCO star is expected to give Matson all he can handle in a battle for the middle linebacker job. Raymone Reed, Jr. - Reed looked like a burgeoning star as a freshman, but he regressed last season only making four tackles. He's too quick and too talented not to make more of an impact behind Mitchell. Anthony Trucks, Soph. - Trucks was a tremendous special teams player last season. Now he'll push for time on the outside behind Martin.

Secondary - Cornerback Aaron Gipson, Soph. - Gipson is only 5-8, but he can tackle making 53 tackles with five tackles for loss and two interceptions. He had a strong spring cementing himself as the starter. Free safety Keith Lewis, Sr. - Lewis returns to his role as one of the best tackling safeties in the Pac 10. He was third on the team with 80 stops last year and 191 career tackles with 16 broken up passes and eight career interceptions. He was the one bright spot in the secondary last year. Rover Marley Tucker, Jr. - Tucker is a good hitter with decent experience making 27 tackles last season. He'll hold down the starting job even after missing a little bit of time this spring. He's a key player as the Ducks need more production from the safeties when the ball is in the air. - Cornerback Steven Moore, Sr. - Moore tied for the team lead with five interceptions and led the way with 15 broken up passes. He's only 5-9, but he's fast and will handle opposing team's top receivers. Top Backups - Cornerback Justin Phinisee, Soph. - The 5-10 sophomore is one of the most versatile players in the secondary. He made 24 tackles playing mostly safety, and he filled in this spring at free safety, but he'll end up playing corner this season. Cornerback Marques Binns, Soph. - Binns was a major factor last season making 30 tackles and an interception. As talented as his is, he'll backup Gipson to start the year. Free safety Stephen Clayton, Jr. - Clayton is a big hitter and should be a strong reserve playing behind Lewis. He's extremely quick and a big hitter. Special Teams - Placekicker Jared Siegel, Jr. - Siegel is one of the most consistent and talented placekickers in the Pac 10. After hitting 7 of 12 field goals in 2001, he connected on 20 of 24 field goals last year only missing one from under 40 yards. He showed a monster leg making all three field goals from beyond 50 yards highlighted by a 59-yard blast. Punter Paul Martinez, Fr. - Siegel will get a shot at replacing the 42.2-yard average of Jose Arroyo, but all eyes will be on Paul Martinez once he gets to campus. It's asking a lot for a newcomer to be a star right away, but that's what Oregon is doing. Walk-ons Drew Larson and Chris Annis will get a chance to take over the job.