South DivisionOklahoma Sooners
2008 Record: 12-2 Overall, 7-1 in the Big 12 Conference
Lost To Florida 24-14 in the BCS Championship Game
What to Like About Oklahoma:
Sam Bradford: Bradford is perhaps the best of the quarterbacks in the league full of really good QB’s. The reigning Heisman Trophy winner could be taking snaps right now for the New York Jets right now and cashing big checks with lots of zeros but instead is going for an Archie Griffin, back to back Heisman’s. Bradford is that good.
Dominant Front 7: If you plan on running against the Sooner front 7, may God be with you. The front 4 could play in the NFL right now. They are rocks against the run a can get to the quarterback. Gerald McCoy is the real deal and is fun to watch. LB Ryan Reynolds needs to keep his knee healthy and if he can stay off of crutches, the linebacking corps is as good as it gets.
Running Backs: OU has had great running backs since the days of the leather helmets. In 2009 they have a pair, Chris Brown gained over a thousand yards last year while DeMarco Murray has superstar talent written all over him. Murray just has to stay healthy. Together Brown and Murray form one of if not the best running back combos in the nation.
What Not To Like About Oklahoma:
Offensive Line: The Sooners must replace 4 starters on the O-Line. The only returning starter is a really, really good one, 6-5, 318 pound senior OT Trent Williams. Plus OU is replacing 4 NFL caliber earth movers with 4 potential NFL caliber earth movers. Can this group keep Sam Bradford standing upright?
OSG’ Take:
Wilkie: OU will be awesome this year plus the Sooners will be motivated to get back in the BCS Championship Game and make up for the loss last year ( Florida rematch anyone?) Whatever happens OU needs to win a BCS bowl no matter what to avoid getting the Ohio State label.
Phil: This is a potential BCS Championship team if some things go right. There is plenty of talent here to win and win a lot. The only question is the O-Line, and that will be answered very quickly. If not BCS, they will be a Top 4 team and potential conference champ.
Nelson: This is an easy one- “What Wilkie Said.”
Texas Longhorns
2008 Record: 12-1 Overall, 7-1 in The Big 12 Conference
Defeated Ohio State 24-21 in The Fiesta Bowl
Things to Like About Texas:
Colt McCoy: If Sam Bradford, Tim Tebow and McCoy sat in a circle playing “Spin The Heisman” this year it might point to dude from Texas (By the way, what a great name for a Texas QB, Colt McCoy). McCoy’s numbers last year were great and his 78% completion percentage was off the charts but what’s scary is that McCoy might be even better this season. Rest assured the “Eyes of Texas” are upon you Colt McCoy.
Receivers: Jordan Shipley is back for a 6th season but the rest of the corps, Malcolm Williams, DeSean Hales, and Dan Buckner, are young and very talented. If one or two or all three step up, and they will get plenty of opportunities to catch balls from McCoy, Texas could make plans for Pasadena.
Things to Not Like About Texas:
Running Backs: Texas likes a running back by committee which is fine but no one on the roster are Earl Campbell imposters. A year ago the Texas RB’s as a group only averaged 4.4 yards per carry. There really isn’t a workhorse back in the bunch.
OSG’s Take:
Wilkie: Texas got royally screwed last year beating Oklahoma yet OU getting the nod to play in the Big 12 Championship Game (The Red River Shootout should be great this year). With that said the Horns can’t blow their wad in Dallas against the Sooners because Texas has road games at Missouri then at Oklahoma State which could be a landmine. One thing is for sure this Texas team is united to right that wrong plus it helps when you have a great QB in Colt McCoy. It’s Pasadena or bust for the ‘Horns.
Phil: Wilkie, you worry me with the veiled “Spin the Bottle” reference and the “Blow their Wad” line. You are right though, they got screwed last year. Again, a potential championship team here, but I think there isn’t the depth of the past few years. A BCS team for sure, but I don’t believe they are the title contenders everyone else thinks they are.
Nelson: : I like this. Wilkie said “Blow their wad.” Two for two…
Oklahoma State Cowboys:
2008 Record: 9-4 Overall, 5-3, In the Big 12 Conference
Lost To Oregon 42-31 in The Holiday Bowl
Things to Like About Oklahoma State:
Balanced and Efficient Offense: The Pokes finished 6th in the country in total offense last year and should be in the top 5 this year. OSU has some outstanding skill players from QB Zac Robinson to RB Kendall Hunter to WR Dez Bryant and the 2nd team isn’t bad either. This offense will be fun to watch.
Offensive Line: Simply a great group. At 6-6, 305 pounds Russell Okung is a mountain of a man and leads this group. Another reason why the Pokes offense will light it up.
Things to Not Like About Oklahoma State:
Lack Of Pass Rush: Something new defensive coordinator Bill Young must solve. None of OSU’s D-lineman scares an opposing QB.
Secondary: Inconsistent a year ago. With the QB’s they will be facing this group better make some plays.
OSG’s Take:
Wilkie: The Cowboys are gunning for a big year. The folks in Stillwater expect double digit wins, a South Division title, and Big 12 Championship and a BCS bowl. Pretty ambitious but the Pokes have the talent to pull it off. OSU gets Texas at Boone Pickens Stadium but Oklahoma in Norman and head coach Mike Gundy has never beaten the Sooners in the Bedlam series as an OSU QB or head coach, that’s 0-8.
Phil: They have some lofty goals and yeah, this may be their best team in a long time. But they are screwed because of the conference they are in. They aren’t better than Oklahoma or Texas, though they are close. Without a defense, they have no chance, plus the schedule ain’t easy. They will be a tough out, 9-3 or 10-2 and a good bowl game.
Nelson: Early upset alert- Georgia crossing the Mississippi for the first time ever. There’s a good chance to lose to Oklahoma State. It’s also an early start to UGA DC Willy Martinez’s death march to the unemployment line. That should put Oke State on the radar for the rest of the planet, and it’s all up from there. Third in the division, but a fun year for the Gundys…
Texas Tech Red Raiders
2008 Record: 11-2 Overall, 7-1 in the Big 12 Conference
Lost To Ole Miss 34-47 in the Cotton Bowl
Things to Like About Texas Tech:
Linebackers: Yes it’s Texas Tech and we are talking defense but the Red Raider linebackers are pretty good. The trio of Brian Duncan who is the star of the “D”, Marlon Williams, and Bront Bird have a tremendous upside and will be the rock of the Texas Tech defense.
New Parts to The System: As good as Graham Harrell and Michael Crabtree were let’s face it, they were cogs in the Texas Tech offensive machine. Though they have moved on the Red Raiders will just change personnel. Junior Taylor Potts takes over at QB and after a few years knows the system plus he has a better arm the Harrell. The receivers will catch a ton of balls. The RB’s, Baron Batch, Harrison Jeffers, and Aaron Crawford are outstanding. Texas Tech will score a bunch of points this year
Things to Not Like About Texas Tech:
Defensive Line: They are not very good against the run and don’t have a consistent pass rusher. Red Raider fans are glad the linebackers are decent.
OSG’s Take:
Wilkie: Mike Leach is a mad scientist when it comes to offense. Leach has added some fresh new elements for his offense in 2009. The Red Raiders will be fun to watch again but they will come no where near their win total last year. 7-8 wins and a decent bowl for Texas Tech.
Phil: A curiosity is the only way to describe them. Yeah, Mike Leach became America’s sweetheart, but he had some pretty talented guys on last year’s team. They also got a couple of breaks and snuck up on people. That won’t happen this year. They will be a decent team and win more than they lose, but they aren’t better than Texas or either Oklahoma school.
Nelson: Whoever the “System” QB is for the Red Raiders, the numbers and the personnel will be there. I think Tech is a year away from really being annoying in the 12. They’ll be annoying enough in the 12 this year, though. Tech won’t be able to stop people and score an equal amount of points. A pre-New Year’s Bowl for you…
Baylor Bears
2008 Record: 4-8 Overall, 2-6 in the Big 12 Conference
Things to Like About Baylor:
Robert Griffin: Griffin is probably the most exciting player in college football. He’s a dangerous runner who won the 400 meters hurdles at the Big 12 Track and Field Championship. This year Griffin will get to throw more. He’s the face of the Baylor Bears and could return BU back to being relavent again.
Things to Not Like About Baylor:
Special Teams: Baylor has been awful here. There’s improvement but it’s a sore spot.
OSG’s Take:
Wilkie: Art Briles is to the Big 12 what Jim Grobe is to the ACC, brilliant coaches at difficult private schools who get the right players for their programs. For the first time since the Bears were in the Southwest Conference they have speed and skill. This program is almost back to being relevant again and should reach 7 wins a make a bowl for the first time since 1994. It’s just too bad Baylor is in the Big 12 South because any other league with the exception of the SEC the Bears might be the story of the year. And you bet I’m going to be tuning in to watch Robert Griffin work his magic.
Phil: A decent team, which is something you haven’t always been able to say about Baylor. I agree with Wilkie, they’d be better in another conference. They will be OK here, and have a shot at a Bowl Game, but they will need more than Robert Griffin in order for that to happen.
Nelson: Robert Griffin will be must-watch TV for the next few seasons. Must-watch will not translate into “must-win,” though. The early part of the season will be great, but the last half will be brutal.
Texas A&M Aggies
2008 Record: 4-8 Overall, 2-6 in the Big 12 Conferenc
e
Things to Like About Texas A&M:
Jeff Fuller: at 6-4, 209 pounds Fuller is a big target plus has a great set of hands. Even at that size he has speed to gain the attention of NFL scouts. Could 2009 be a big year for Mr. Fuller.
Things to Not Like About Texas A&M:
The Lines: Both the offensive line and defensive lines were awful last year. The good news is that there is some talent there but both have to improve for the Aggies to have any chance at .500
OSG’s Take:
Wilkie: Texas A&M baffles me. They have all the money in the world and in my mind the best atmosphere in college football but they have been mediocre at best the last few years and then the bottom fell out last year. It won’t be this year but someday the Aggies will matter again. 5 wins the max on the Brazos.
Phil: They are still reeling from some bad coaching hires the past couple of years and some bad recruiting. They should be better than what they are, but they aren’t. They don’t have the guns to carry into battle in this conference and won’t make .500 either.
Nelson: The first three games give them a false sense of security- New Mexico, Utah State, and UAB. Then, it all falls down from there- maybe 5 wins unless they steal one on the road from someone. Unimpressive…
Big 12 South Division Champion:
Wilkie: Oklahoma
Phil: Oklahoma
Nelson: Boomer Sooner - Oklahoma
North Division
Nebraska Cornhuskers
2008 Record: 9-4 Overall, 5-3 in The Big 12 Conference
Defeated Clemson 26-21 in The Gator Bowl
Things to Like About Nebraska:
Defense: The front four is as good as it gets. DT Ndamukong Suh is the star and will be in the NFL someday. Suh lead the Huskers in 2008 in tackles (76), tackles for loss (19) and sacks (7.5). Suh even had 2 interceptions returning both for scores. Suh is 6-4, 300 pounds and will command attention. Also watch out for red shirt freshman Baker Steinkuhler (another Steinkuhler wearing the stenciled “N”).
Alex Henery: If Henery attempts a field goal from 49 yards and in ring it up, he’s that automatic. He was 17-18 inside 50 yards a year ago.
Things Not To Like About Nebraska:
Receivers: There’s no go to guy in the group. Nebraska has some big, fast receivers but not one who will scare you.
OSG’s Take:
Wilkie: Bo Pellini is bringing the Nebraska way back to Lincoln. They won’t be on the elite level this year but the Huskers are good enough to win the Big 12 North. Nebraska does have road games at Missouri, at Colorado and at Kansas so it won’t be easy.
Phil: They seem to have finally recovered from the Bill Callahan era. Bo Pellini was a great hire, he was better than I thought he would be. They are a program on the upswing and though they aren’t an “Elite” team, they are headed in that direction. Solid team, solid year and a bowl game on the horizon.
Nelson: The road schedule is a bit of a killer, but I’m looking at 8 wins and a shot at the title. The 12 North continues to unimpress…
Missouri Tigers
2008 Record: 10-4 Overall, 5-3 in the Big 12 Conference
Defeated Northwestern 30-23 in the Alamo Bowl
Things to Like About Missouri:
Young Players Hungry Too: Chase Daniel, Chase Coffman, Jeremy Maclin and the rest who put Mizzou on the national stage have moved on. Gary Pinkel and his staff have done a good job recruiting some great talent to replace the stars that have left Columbia. The underclassmen want to prove themselves and keep Mizzou at the top of the Big 12 North.
Offense: Even though Mizzou lost superstars on that side of the ball the cupboard is far from bare. Derrick Washington gained over a thousand yards in 2008 and had a great spring. The key will be new QB Blaine Gabbert. At 6-5, 235 pounds and a cannon of an arm Gabbert has more NFL upside than Chase Daniel ever had. Gabbert will be the focal point of the Mizzou offense so it’s his time to shine.
Things to Not Like About Missouri:
Secondary: Last year the Mizzou secondary had only 3 interceptions as a group. Only one starter returns and there is speed and athleticism there. But if you can’t make big plays what good is that.
OSG’s Take:
Wilkie: This year we will know if Mizzou will have staying power in the Big 12. I’m willing to bet the Tigers do. Gary Pinkel’s staff has done a great job with recruiting and there is talent to replace the talent that moved on. Mizzou’s got the goods to win the Big 12 North.
Phil: There are a lot of people to replace on this team. There is more than enough here to do it. Pinkel is a good coach and will get the most out of them, I just don’t know if they are good enough to win the North. Definitely a Bowl team and a contender.
Nelson: I could see 7 wins here and a shot at the title in the North, but this is a team that will probably lose to Nevada on the road, too. Meh…
Kansas Jayhawks
2008 Record: 8-5 Overall, 4-4 in the Big 12 Conference
Defeated Minnesota 42-21 in the Insight.com Bowl
Things to Like About Kansas:
Todd Reesing: He may not impress you with his physical skills but Reesing has done nothing but win and is the heart and soul of the Jayhawks. If Reesing stays healthy KU will be fine.
Pass Rush: Kansas will get after the quarterback. Maxwell Onyegbule and Jake Laptad are speed rushers and both have the potential to put up big sack numbers.
Things Not To Like About Kansas:
Schedule: Not only do you have there rivals in the Big 12 North but Kansas also gets Texas and Oklahoma from the South. Talk about bad timing.
OSG’s Take:
Wilkie: I expect a huge year from Todd Reesing, he’s that good. If the Jayhawks get a big year from Reesing and the defense plays up to there potential than 10 wins could happen in Lawrence. I just don’t see KU winning the North though.
Phil: Tough, tough schedule. Reesing may be the best QB not named McCoy or Bradford in the conference. The Mangino has a good squad and with a few breaks, could be playing for the conference championship.
Nelson: Another stellar early schedule for the Manginos- Northern Colorado, UTEP, Duke, Southern Miss, Iowa State. But after that, it’s all uphill in conference play. They’ll be bowl-eligible, but I think there are others in the division that are better- even with Reesing, who will be celebrating his 38th birthday with KU in November.
Colorado Buffaloes
2008 Record: 5-7, 2-6 in the Big 12 Conference
Things to Like About Colorado:
Running Backs: Darrell Scott was a prized recruit for the Buffs, 2009 he needs to play like one. Scott had a rough freshman year but he has superstar written all over him and should have a big year. The rest of the running backs are really good, Rodney Stewart, Demetrius Sumler, and Brian Lockridge form perhaps the best running back foursomes in the Big 12.
Linebackers: They are solid. At 6-0, 260 pounds senior Marcus Burton is the star of the group. Burton has had injury and academic issues during his Buff career but is ready to be the man this year after a disappointing 2008 season.
Things Not To Like About Colorado:
Receivers: Had Josh Smith stayed instead of pursuing a career in music then this wouldn’t be the case. When your receiving corps doesn’t have speed you have an issue and Colorado has that. Possession receivers can only go so far.
OSG’s Take:
Wilkie: Head coach Dan Hawkins is demanding 10 wins from Colorado this year. Well coach Hawkins, this isn’t intramurals, this is college football, this is the Big 12 brother and while the league is going to be awesome, the Buffaloes might get roamed. 10 wins, in your dreams, just get into a bowl and call it a winning season.
Phil: They haven’t done much since Dan Hawkins arrived. They aren’t awful anymore, but they aren’t an elite team either. There is some talent here, particularly at RB, but they will need more than that. No, they won’t win 10, 7 maybe and a December Bowl Game is more likely.
Nelson: : I could see nine wins if he gets past State in the “Folsom Rivalry” to start the season. All the crucial games are in Boulder. As long as he gets out of the first 5 at 3-2 surviving both Morgantown and Austin, that’s where they’ll be.
Kansas State Wildcats
2008 Record: 5-7 Overall, 2-6 in the Big 12 Conference
Things to Like About Kansas State:
Receivers: They are fast and can go get it. The question is do they have a quarterback to get the ball to them. (See Below). Brandon Banks is a clear #1 receiver who is a game breaker plus has all the tools. Banks can be a home run threat or get open to move the chains. The rest of the corps is solid as well.
Things Not To Like About Kansas State:
Quarterback: Who’s going to start? Carson Coffman backed-up Josh Freeman last year and can throw but lacks experience. Coffman is battling with South Florida transfer Grant Gregory during fall camp. Gregory is in his 6th year of eligibility and has experience. Remember Bill Snyder likes QB’s that are very mobile and gain 1,000 yards and throw when needed and JUCO transfer Daniel Thomas fits that mold and might see some time.
OSG’s Take:
Wilkie: In Manhattan, KS they call it the family reunion with Bill Snyder back running the show. That alone might get K-State over .500 but with road games at UCLA, at Texas Tech, at Oklahoma and at Nebraska matching Ron Prince’s win total from last season might be all the Wildcats can accomplish.
Phil: Another team that thinks it is more than it is. Bringing back Snyder was a sentimental thing, he’s a decent coach, but…decent won’t cut it here. The schedule is awfully tough and mostly on the road, .500 is a reach, but…you never know.
Nelson: : Kansas and Missouri are back-to-back in Manhattan late in the year. This could figure out where The Family goes for Christmas- home or to a bowl. I’m thinking 6-6 and something close by for good measure as a 13th game.
Iowa State Cyclones
2008 Record: 2-10 Overall, 0-8 in the Big 12 Conference
Things to Like About Iowa State:
Defensive Coordinator Wally Burnham: Iowa State’s defense was 112th in the country last year with a front four that was awful. Burnham comes to Ames wanting the front 7 to be more aggressive so ISU’s talented secondary doesn’t get worn down and bombed on. If they generate a pass rush and with talent like Rashawn Parker, Christopher Lyle and Austin Alburtis taking in what Burnham is teaching this should get better throughout the year.
Things Not To Like About Iowa State:
Offensive Line: It’s a veteran unit that hasn’t played together much because of injuries. With a new coaching staff in place and new assignments this will be a work in progress.
Wilkie: Another long year for Cyclone football fans. Give Paul Rhodes some time and Iowa State football might matter again but this year, 4 wins the max.
Phil: Yawn. Someone has to take this role. They won’t be a serious contender for anything, but they won’t be a pushover either. They are building and in time will be a contender, but not this season….No Bowl for You!
Nelson: Next….
Big 12 North Division Champion:
Wilkie: Missouri
Phil: Kansas
Nelson: Nebraska
Big 12 Champion:
Wilkie: Oklahoma
Phil: Oklahoma
Nelson: Boomer Sooner - Oklahoma
Best Offensive Player In The Big 12:
Wilkie: Colt McCoy – Texas & Sam Bradford - Oklahoma
Phil- Sam Bradford - Oklahoma
Nelson: Sam Bradford - Oklahoma
Best Defensive Player In The Big 12:
Wilkie: Sean Witherspoon – Missouri
Phil- Ndamukon Suh- Nebraska
Nelson: Gerald McCoy- Oklahoma
Phil: Wilkie, you worry me with the veiled “Spin the Bottle” reference and the “Blow their Wad” line. You are right though, they got screwed last year. Again, a potential championship team here, but I think there isn’t the depth of the past few years. A BCS team for sure, but I don’t believe they are the title contenders everyone else thinks they are.
Nelson: : I like this. Wilkie said “Blow their wad.” Two for two…
Oklahoma State Cowboys:
2008 Record: 9-4 Overall, 5-3, In the Big 12 Conference
Lost To Oregon 42-31 in The Holiday Bowl
Things to Like About Oklahoma State:
Balanced and Efficient Offense: The Pokes finished 6th in the country in total offense last year and should be in the top 5 this year. OSU has some outstanding skill players from QB Zac Robinson to RB Kendall Hunter to WR Dez Bryant and the 2nd team isn’t bad either. This offense will be fun to watch.
Offensive Line: Simply a great group. At 6-6, 305 pounds Russell Okung is a mountain of a man and leads this group. Another reason why the Pokes offense will light it up.
Things to Not Like About Oklahoma State:
Lack Of Pass Rush: Something new defensive coordinator Bill Young must solve. None of OSU’s D-lineman scares an opposing QB.
Secondary: Inconsistent a year ago. With the QB’s they will be facing this group better make some plays.
OSG’s Take:
Wilkie: The Cowboys are gunning for a big year. The folks in Stillwater expect double digit wins, a South Division title, and Big 12 Championship and a BCS bowl. Pretty ambitious but the Pokes have the talent to pull it off. OSU gets Texas at Boone Pickens Stadium but Oklahoma in Norman and head coach Mike Gundy has never beaten the Sooners in the Bedlam series as an OSU QB or head coach, that’s 0-8.
Phil: They have some lofty goals and yeah, this may be their best team in a long time. But they are screwed because of the conference they are in. They aren’t better than Oklahoma or Texas, though they are close. Without a defense, they have no chance, plus the schedule ain’t easy. They will be a tough out, 9-3 or 10-2 and a good bowl game.
Nelson: Early upset alert- Georgia crossing the Mississippi for the first time ever. There’s a good chance to lose to Oklahoma State. It’s also an early start to UGA DC Willy Martinez’s death march to the unemployment line. That should put Oke State on the radar for the rest of the planet, and it’s all up from there. Third in the division, but a fun year for the Gundys…
Texas Tech Red Raiders
2008 Record: 11-2 Overall, 7-1 in the Big 12 Conference
Lost To Ole Miss 34-47 in the Cotton Bowl
Things to Like About Texas Tech:
Linebackers: Yes it’s Texas Tech and we are talking defense but the Red Raider linebackers are pretty good. The trio of Brian Duncan who is the star of the “D”, Marlon Williams, and Bront Bird have a tremendous upside and will be the rock of the Texas Tech defense.
New Parts to The System: As good as Graham Harrell and Michael Crabtree were let’s face it, they were cogs in the Texas Tech offensive machine. Though they have moved on the Red Raiders will just change personnel. Junior Taylor Potts takes over at QB and after a few years knows the system plus he has a better arm the Harrell. The receivers will catch a ton of balls. The RB’s, Baron Batch, Harrison Jeffers, and Aaron Crawford are outstanding. Texas Tech will score a bunch of points this year
Things to Not Like About Texas Tech:
Defensive Line: They are not very good against the run and don’t have a consistent pass rusher. Red Raider fans are glad the linebackers are decent.
OSG’s Take:
Wilkie: Mike Leach is a mad scientist when it comes to offense. Leach has added some fresh new elements for his offense in 2009. The Red Raiders will be fun to watch again but they will come no where near their win total last year. 7-8 wins and a decent bowl for Texas Tech.
Phil: A curiosity is the only way to describe them. Yeah, Mike Leach became America’s sweetheart, but he had some pretty talented guys on last year’s team. They also got a couple of breaks and snuck up on people. That won’t happen this year. They will be a decent team and win more than they lose, but they aren’t better than Texas or either Oklahoma school.
Nelson: Whoever the “System” QB is for the Red Raiders, the numbers and the personnel will be there. I think Tech is a year away from really being annoying in the 12. They’ll be annoying enough in the 12 this year, though. Tech won’t be able to stop people and score an equal amount of points. A pre-New Year’s Bowl for you…
Baylor Bears
2008 Record: 4-8 Overall, 2-6 in the Big 12 Conference
Things to Like About Baylor:
Robert Griffin: Griffin is probably the most exciting player in college football. He’s a dangerous runner who won the 400 meters hurdles at the Big 12 Track and Field Championship. This year Griffin will get to throw more. He’s the face of the Baylor Bears and could return BU back to being relavent again.
Things to Not Like About Baylor:
Special Teams: Baylor has been awful here. There’s improvement but it’s a sore spot.
OSG’s Take:
Wilkie: Art Briles is to the Big 12 what Jim Grobe is to the ACC, brilliant coaches at difficult private schools who get the right players for their programs. For the first time since the Bears were in the Southwest Conference they have speed and skill. This program is almost back to being relevant again and should reach 7 wins a make a bowl for the first time since 1994. It’s just too bad Baylor is in the Big 12 South because any other league with the exception of the SEC the Bears might be the story of the year. And you bet I’m going to be tuning in to watch Robert Griffin work his magic.
Phil: A decent team, which is something you haven’t always been able to say about Baylor. I agree with Wilkie, they’d be better in another conference. They will be OK here, and have a shot at a Bowl Game, but they will need more than Robert Griffin in order for that to happen.
Nelson: Robert Griffin will be must-watch TV for the next few seasons. Must-watch will not translate into “must-win,” though. The early part of the season will be great, but the last half will be brutal.
Texas A&M Aggies
2008 Record: 4-8 Overall, 2-6 in the Big 12 Conferenc
eThings to Like About Texas A&M:
Jeff Fuller: at 6-4, 209 pounds Fuller is a big target plus has a great set of hands. Even at that size he has speed to gain the attention of NFL scouts. Could 2009 be a big year for Mr. Fuller.
Things to Not Like About Texas A&M:
The Lines: Both the offensive line and defensive lines were awful last year. The good news is that there is some talent there but both have to improve for the Aggies to have any chance at .500
OSG’s Take:
Wilkie: Texas A&M baffles me. They have all the money in the world and in my mind the best atmosphere in college football but they have been mediocre at best the last few years and then the bottom fell out last year. It won’t be this year but someday the Aggies will matter again. 5 wins the max on the Brazos.
Phil: They are still reeling from some bad coaching hires the past couple of years and some bad recruiting. They should be better than what they are, but they aren’t. They don’t have the guns to carry into battle in this conference and won’t make .500 either.
Nelson: The first three games give them a false sense of security- New Mexico, Utah State, and UAB. Then, it all falls down from there- maybe 5 wins unless they steal one on the road from someone. Unimpressive…
Big 12 South Division Champion:
Wilkie: Oklahoma
Phil: Oklahoma
Nelson: Boomer Sooner - Oklahoma
North Division
Nebraska Cornhuskers
2008 Record: 9-4 Overall, 5-3 in The Big 12 Conference
Defeated Clemson 26-21 in The Gator Bowl
Things to Like About Nebraska:
Defense: The front four is as good as it gets. DT Ndamukong Suh is the star and will be in the NFL someday. Suh lead the Huskers in 2008 in tackles (76), tackles for loss (19) and sacks (7.5). Suh even had 2 interceptions returning both for scores. Suh is 6-4, 300 pounds and will command attention. Also watch out for red shirt freshman Baker Steinkuhler (another Steinkuhler wearing the stenciled “N”).
Alex Henery: If Henery attempts a field goal from 49 yards and in ring it up, he’s that automatic. He was 17-18 inside 50 yards a year ago.
Things Not To Like About Nebraska:
Receivers: There’s no go to guy in the group. Nebraska has some big, fast receivers but not one who will scare you.
OSG’s Take:
Wilkie: Bo Pellini is bringing the Nebraska way back to Lincoln. They won’t be on the elite level this year but the Huskers are good enough to win the Big 12 North. Nebraska does have road games at Missouri, at Colorado and at Kansas so it won’t be easy.
Phil: They seem to have finally recovered from the Bill Callahan era. Bo Pellini was a great hire, he was better than I thought he would be. They are a program on the upswing and though they aren’t an “Elite” team, they are headed in that direction. Solid team, solid year and a bowl game on the horizon.
Nelson: The road schedule is a bit of a killer, but I’m looking at 8 wins and a shot at the title. The 12 North continues to unimpress…
Missouri Tigers
2008 Record: 10-4 Overall, 5-3 in the Big 12 Conference
Defeated Northwestern 30-23 in the Alamo Bowl
Things to Like About Missouri:
Young Players Hungry Too: Chase Daniel, Chase Coffman, Jeremy Maclin and the rest who put Mizzou on the national stage have moved on. Gary Pinkel and his staff have done a good job recruiting some great talent to replace the stars that have left Columbia. The underclassmen want to prove themselves and keep Mizzou at the top of the Big 12 North.
Offense: Even though Mizzou lost superstars on that side of the ball the cupboard is far from bare. Derrick Washington gained over a thousand yards in 2008 and had a great spring. The key will be new QB Blaine Gabbert. At 6-5, 235 pounds and a cannon of an arm Gabbert has more NFL upside than Chase Daniel ever had. Gabbert will be the focal point of the Mizzou offense so it’s his time to shine.
Things to Not Like About Missouri:
Secondary: Last year the Mizzou secondary had only 3 interceptions as a group. Only one starter returns and there is speed and athleticism there. But if you can’t make big plays what good is that.
OSG’s Take:
Wilkie: This year we will know if Mizzou will have staying power in the Big 12. I’m willing to bet the Tigers do. Gary Pinkel’s staff has done a great job with recruiting and there is talent to replace the talent that moved on. Mizzou’s got the goods to win the Big 12 North.
Phil: There are a lot of people to replace on this team. There is more than enough here to do it. Pinkel is a good coach and will get the most out of them, I just don’t know if they are good enough to win the North. Definitely a Bowl team and a contender.
Nelson: I could see 7 wins here and a shot at the title in the North, but this is a team that will probably lose to Nevada on the road, too. Meh…
Kansas Jayhawks
2008 Record: 8-5 Overall, 4-4 in the Big 12 Conference
Defeated Minnesota 42-21 in the Insight.com Bowl
Things to Like About Kansas:
Todd Reesing: He may not impress you with his physical skills but Reesing has done nothing but win and is the heart and soul of the Jayhawks. If Reesing stays healthy KU will be fine.
Pass Rush: Kansas will get after the quarterback. Maxwell Onyegbule and Jake Laptad are speed rushers and both have the potential to put up big sack numbers.
Things Not To Like About Kansas:
Schedule: Not only do you have there rivals in the Big 12 North but Kansas also gets Texas and Oklahoma from the South. Talk about bad timing.
OSG’s Take:
Wilkie: I expect a huge year from Todd Reesing, he’s that good. If the Jayhawks get a big year from Reesing and the defense plays up to there potential than 10 wins could happen in Lawrence. I just don’t see KU winning the North though.
Phil: Tough, tough schedule. Reesing may be the best QB not named McCoy or Bradford in the conference. The Mangino has a good squad and with a few breaks, could be playing for the conference championship.
Nelson: Another stellar early schedule for the Manginos- Northern Colorado, UTEP, Duke, Southern Miss, Iowa State. But after that, it’s all uphill in conference play. They’ll be bowl-eligible, but I think there are others in the division that are better- even with Reesing, who will be celebrating his 38th birthday with KU in November.
Colorado Buffaloes
2008 Record: 5-7, 2-6 in the Big 12 Conference
Things to Like About Colorado:
Running Backs: Darrell Scott was a prized recruit for the Buffs, 2009 he needs to play like one. Scott had a rough freshman year but he has superstar written all over him and should have a big year. The rest of the running backs are really good, Rodney Stewart, Demetrius Sumler, and Brian Lockridge form perhaps the best running back foursomes in the Big 12.
Linebackers: They are solid. At 6-0, 260 pounds senior Marcus Burton is the star of the group. Burton has had injury and academic issues during his Buff career but is ready to be the man this year after a disappointing 2008 season.
Things Not To Like About Colorado:
Receivers: Had Josh Smith stayed instead of pursuing a career in music then this wouldn’t be the case. When your receiving corps doesn’t have speed you have an issue and Colorado has that. Possession receivers can only go so far.
OSG’s Take:
Wilkie: Head coach Dan Hawkins is demanding 10 wins from Colorado this year. Well coach Hawkins, this isn’t intramurals, this is college football, this is the Big 12 brother and while the league is going to be awesome, the Buffaloes might get roamed. 10 wins, in your dreams, just get into a bowl and call it a winning season.
Phil: They haven’t done much since Dan Hawkins arrived. They aren’t awful anymore, but they aren’t an elite team either. There is some talent here, particularly at RB, but they will need more than that. No, they won’t win 10, 7 maybe and a December Bowl Game is more likely.
Nelson: : I could see nine wins if he gets past State in the “Folsom Rivalry” to start the season. All the crucial games are in Boulder. As long as he gets out of the first 5 at 3-2 surviving both Morgantown and Austin, that’s where they’ll be.
Kansas State Wildcats
2008 Record: 5-7 Overall, 2-6 in the Big 12 Conference
Things to Like About Kansas State:
Receivers: They are fast and can go get it. The question is do they have a quarterback to get the ball to them. (See Below). Brandon Banks is a clear #1 receiver who is a game breaker plus has all the tools. Banks can be a home run threat or get open to move the chains. The rest of the corps is solid as well.
Things Not To Like About Kansas State:
Quarterback: Who’s going to start? Carson Coffman backed-up Josh Freeman last year and can throw but lacks experience. Coffman is battling with South Florida transfer Grant Gregory during fall camp. Gregory is in his 6th year of eligibility and has experience. Remember Bill Snyder likes QB’s that are very mobile and gain 1,000 yards and throw when needed and JUCO transfer Daniel Thomas fits that mold and might see some time.
OSG’s Take:
Wilkie: In Manhattan, KS they call it the family reunion with Bill Snyder back running the show. That alone might get K-State over .500 but with road games at UCLA, at Texas Tech, at Oklahoma and at Nebraska matching Ron Prince’s win total from last season might be all the Wildcats can accomplish.
Phil: Another team that thinks it is more than it is. Bringing back Snyder was a sentimental thing, he’s a decent coach, but…decent won’t cut it here. The schedule is awfully tough and mostly on the road, .500 is a reach, but…you never know.
Nelson: : Kansas and Missouri are back-to-back in Manhattan late in the year. This could figure out where The Family goes for Christmas- home or to a bowl. I’m thinking 6-6 and something close by for good measure as a 13th game.
Iowa State Cyclones
2008 Record: 2-10 Overall, 0-8 in the Big 12 Conference
Things to Like About Iowa State:
Defensive Coordinator Wally Burnham: Iowa State’s defense was 112th in the country last year with a front four that was awful. Burnham comes to Ames wanting the front 7 to be more aggressive so ISU’s talented secondary doesn’t get worn down and bombed on. If they generate a pass rush and with talent like Rashawn Parker, Christopher Lyle and Austin Alburtis taking in what Burnham is teaching this should get better throughout the year.
Things Not To Like About Iowa State:
Offensive Line: It’s a veteran unit that hasn’t played together much because of injuries. With a new coaching staff in place and new assignments this will be a work in progress.
Wilkie: Another long year for Cyclone football fans. Give Paul Rhodes some time and Iowa State football might matter again but this year, 4 wins the max.
Phil: Yawn. Someone has to take this role. They won’t be a serious contender for anything, but they won’t be a pushover either. They are building and in time will be a contender, but not this season….No Bowl for You!
Nelson: Next….
Big 12 North Division Champion:
Wilkie: Missouri
Phil: Kansas
Nelson: Nebraska
Big 12 Champion:
Wilkie: Oklahoma
Phil: Oklahoma
Nelson: Boomer Sooner - Oklahoma
Best Offensive Player In The Big 12:
Wilkie: Colt McCoy – Texas & Sam Bradford - Oklahoma
Phil- Sam Bradford - Oklahoma
Nelson: Sam Bradford - Oklahoma
Best Defensive Player In The Big 12:
Wilkie: Sean Witherspoon – Missouri
Phil- Ndamukon Suh- Nebraska
Nelson: Gerald McCoy- Oklahoma
1 comment:
That was a great game today between Oklahoma and Texas. I think the Sooners would have prevailed, and would most likely be undefeated if Sam Bradford could have stayed healthy.
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