Beebe, however, said he thinks football should be seen as unique because it has a high rate of redshirts and injuries.

"Injuries happen and coaches have players who could contribute, but they don't want to play someone on a limited basis and burn a redshirt year," Beebe said. "And you have kids during their redshirt year who are getting the heck beat out of them in practice every day with no hope of playing."

Big 12 Commissioner Dan Beebe Pushing for Fifth Year of Eligibility originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Wed, 21 May 2008 11:35:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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"To me, it's a situation where everybody's the same," said [co-offensive coordinator Phillip] Montgomery, who tutored Kevin Kolb at the University of Houston before he was drafted in the second round by the Philadelphia Eagles. "Everybody starts fresh, and everybody starts with a clean slate."

"We've got some guys that can do some things," he said. "To me, I'm more worried about the left guard position and our cornerback position than I am the quarterback, because we've got some guys that can play and make plays.

"I thought we played with pretty good pace and tempo. That's something that we're going to be known as is a tempo-tough football team."

Baylor QB Situation Remains Unsettled originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Mon, 07 Apr 2008 22:15:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Baylor redshirt freshman Matt Singletary has traded his defensive black jersey for an offensive white one.

Singletary, who previously played defensive end at 6-4, 248 pounds, worked out for the first time at slot receiver Tuesday.

"In our offense, we look for what we call a big slot," Briles said. "We want a guy from about 250 to about 270 that can move and turn upfield and get after somebody with a mean look on their face. Hopefully, Matt can do that. We're kind of checking him out."

Can Samurai Mike's Son Bring Intimidation to New Role at Baylor? originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Thu, 27 Mar 2008 10:25:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Somebody Has To Coach Baylor, After All originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Thu, 29 Nov 2007 15:09:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Singletary, who many league observers feel will be a head coach in the NFL someday, met with Baylor athletic director Ian McCaw in the Bay Area on Monday, and the two spoke on Wednesday as well. But Singletary, who was also considered for the Baylor job a few years ago, determined the position was not a good fit.

Baylor fired coach Guy Morriss on Sunday after the team completed a 3-9 season.

"What happened was, we got to a point in the conversation where it just wasn't going to work... The more we talked about it, the more I knew -- and I think [McCaw] knew -- it wasn't going to work," Singletary told The Dallas Morning News on Thursday.

Baylor Isn't Good Enough for Mike Singletary originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Thu, 22 Nov 2007 23:34:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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A source close to the Baylor athletic department said Guy Morriss will not return next season to coach the Bears.

The Guy Morriss era at Baylor will end after he coaches the team's final two games against Oklahoma and Oklahoma State, according to the source. Morriss has one year remaining on his contract.

Throw in the usual hems and haws from athletic department staff so it's not for certain, but sounds close to real. The former Kentucky coach hasn't been a colossal failure, but it's been a vanilla showing in his tenure. Things looked great two seasons ago as Baylor chased bowl eligibility, only to lose in double overtime to a reeling Oklahoma team, falling completely off the radar ever since.

It didn't take long for the name Mike Singletary to appear in relation to this job. It helps that he's an alum and if Baylor wants him they may just railroad his hiring. That would make the Black Coaches Association happy and further the cause of minorities in head coaching positions in college football particularly as it looks like UCLA's Karl Dorrell is headed for the unemployment line.

Baylor May Be in the Market for a New Football Coach. Maybe. originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Fri, 09 Nov 2007 16:46:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Eric Schnupp, Baylor's offensive line/tight ends coach, was not arrested but was issued a citation at 2:20 a.m. Sunday for disorderly conduct-reckless exposure at Scruffy Murphy's, Waco police spokesman Steve Anderson said.

Bartender Danny Severe said in Tuesday's editions of the Waco Tribune-Herald that the incident happened around closing time and that Schnupp apparently thought no one was watching him as employees were moving patrons out of the building.

Severe said an employee witnessed Schnupp urinating on the bar, and a manager told police officers who were there for an unrelated matter.

When You Gotta Go, You Gotta Go originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Tue, 16 Oct 2007 13:46:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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YouTubesDay: The Big 12 Probably Deserves This originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Tue, 18 Sep 2007 09:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Texas A&M Aggies

Last year: 9-4 overall, 5-3 Big 12 WHY THEY'LL WIN: Because the pressure is on coach Dennis Franchione to get big wins and make a Big 12 Championship appearance or lose his job. On the field, the Aggies return one of D-I's finest ground attacks. They can go four deep at tailback and quarterback Stephen McGee's a talented runner as well. The win over Texas last year also appeared to signal that this team finally figured out how to win big games. WHY THEY WON'T: But then again, the Aggies also lost their very next game in embarrassing fashion. California pounded them in the Holiday Bowl, 45-10. Also, one big win does not a team make. The Aggies have yet to string together several big wins in a season, and must find a way to close games out. They blew late leads at home last year to both Nebraska and Texas Tech and very nearly lost to Missouri the same way. The schedule is a killer with national power Miami making an appearance. In the Big 12 slate, the Aggies face all three of their recent masters: Texas, Oklahoma and Nebraska as well as Northern division favorite Missouri. If past is precedent, it will be a tall order to manage more than one win out of those five games. PROGNOSIS: Hard to tell. I have people tell me occasionally about the disconnect between Franchione and the Aggie nation. It's not a leap to assume that unease sometimes trickles down to the team and frustrates his ability to lead the entire roster. All of which means his teams are unpredictable, prone to unexpected wins and losses. The Aggies can manage 50% of their schedule but it's that other 50% that matters here. The win over Texas was huge, but they responded horribly the next time out - not good. Let's call this a 7-8 win season with much greater promise if some of the dark clouds of past years are put behind them.

Oklahoma State Cowboys

Last year: 7-6 overall, 3-5 Big 12 WHY THEY'LL WIN: "The Greatest Offense in College Football". Or something like that. Oklahoma State is hyping up its balanced offense which posted 200+ yards/game both on the ground and in the air last year. Most of those players are back including marquee names like receiver Adarius Bowman, quarterback Bobby Reid and tailback Dantrell Savage. Hey, don't forget about Kenneth Toston, either. The Cowboys head into 2007 feeling good about themselves after an exciting bowl win over SEC power Alabama. WHY THEY WON'T: Like Texas A&M, this team has an exciting offense and a shaaaaaky defense. Any win will be a race to get to 30 points which is tough to do against some of the better defenses on the schedule like Georgia, Texas, Oklahoma and maybe Nebraska. The offensive system really started humming midway through last year and this team can afford some injuries, but not too many. Sophomore receiver Artrel Woods (how many Woods' are there at Oklahoma State?!) pretty much shattered his back in a lifting accident a few weeks back and is out for the season. The penciled-in starters at defensive line combined for all of 7 or so starts last year. PROGNOSIS: This is an improving team starting a feel-good third year under coach Mike Gundy. They've proven they can make a showing against the big boys (just one blowout loss last year) and fend off most of the middling teams in the Big 12. What's left is to either stay at that place or make a leap forward. I don't see them having a defense necessary to do that, however. Mix in the usual Texas/Oklahoma/Nebraska intimidation matrix along with a roadie against Georgia and the Cowboys should settle in at 7 to 9 wins his year.

Missouri Tigers

Last year: 8-5 overall, 4-4 Big 12 WHY THEY'LL WIN: Because everyone keeps telling them this is their year. The Tigers flashed an improved defense last year and if it can improve just a little bit more they have a shot at the Big 12 North division crown. The offense is sometimes spectacular and has an exciting leader in quarterback Chase Daniel. After a few rough years of failing to meet expectation, the Tigers are feeling good about themselves. WHY THEY WON'T: If past is precedent, this snake-bitten program will find a way to collapse and/or disappoint. The Tigers were scorching hot in a 6-0 start last year but faded badly and lost some very winnable games. The defense is average at best, which was fine several years ago. However, this league is becoming much more offensive-minded and those who can make the occasional stop like Texas and Oklahoma keep winning. PROGNOSIS: Big 12 media think this team is headed towards a North division title. I'm a little more skeptical. I was on the Tiger bandwagon last year and agonized over the ruin of the Tigers' finish. I know better this time around. The Tigers get to skip Texas this year and host two of the three biggies: Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas A&M. It's a favorable schedule so let's call this a 9-win season.

Kansas State Wildcats

Last year: 7-6 overall, 4-4 Big 12 WHY THEY'LL WIN: Coach Ron Prince surprised many in making the Wildcats competitive in just his first year on the job. The roster was questionable but he managed to keep this team in some games and even beat Texas. If he can keep turning that Manhattan Kansas water into wine then they'll improve behind their 6'-6" Stay-Puff giant of a quarterback Josh Freeman. The running game is decent and they should improve against both the run and the pass with seven returning defensive starters. WHY THEY WON'T: Talent. The roster's improving, but this walks and talks like a middle of the Big 12 team. The defense wasn't great last year, and Freeman for all the hype had a TD/INT ratio of 6 to 15. He also checked into camp out of shape and overweight which isn't a great leadership mark. Combine that with a possibly humiliating road opener against Auburn and this season could unravel fast. PROGNOSIS: I was tempted to put this team in The Dregs, but their schedule is nice and Ron Prince seems like the kind of coach who can consistently get this team to overachieve while he slowly improves the overall talent. Playing in the less regarded Big 12 North helps. Just two conference giants are on the schedule - a pair of roadies against Texas and Nebraska. If the Wildcats play their cards right I could see another 7 or so wins.

Big 12 Football Preview '07: The Mediocre originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Thu, 09 Aug 2007 19:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Texas Tech Red Raiders

Last year: 8-5 overall, 4-4 Big 12 WHY THEY'LL WIN: Because they can still outscore most of their peers. The Red Raiders will have a rare returning quarterback in talented junior Graham Harrell. Redshirt freshman receiver Michael Crabtree is getting buzz as potentially Texas Tech's best receiver yet. Tailback Shannon Woods is a first team all conference performer and will only get better assuming he gets out of coach Mike Leach's doghouse first. This team has some fight in it, beating Texas A&M on the road 31-27 last year and Oklahoma State 30-24 in the final week to secure bowl eligibility. They also set a record for biggest bowl comeback in college football history in beating Minnesota 44-41 last year. And in the "Things That Make You Go Hmm" department, Mike Leach's Red Raiders took Texas to the brink before Colt McCoy had one of those "The Leap" moments right in front of them, falling 35-31. WHY THEY WON'T: They're in the wrong division. The Big 12 South is particularly competitive this year as Texas, Oklahoma, Texas A&M and Oklahoma State all look to be much improved from last year. For all those gutty victories last year, turmoil rocked the Red Raiders' early season and led to strange defeats like a 12-3 loss to TCU and a 30-6 pounding at the hands of lowly Colorado. This team is bipolar until proven otherwise. PROGNOSIS: Texas Tech probably learned a few lessons from last year's disappointments and did end things on a high note with the bowl comeback, but that won't be enough. The Red Raiders must play hungry and improved versions of Oklahoma State, Texas A&M, Texas and Oklahoma as well as North division favorite Missouri. Layups against SMU, UTEP, Rice and Northwestern State help, but that still leaves at least two must-wins against Iowa State, Colorado and a roadie with Baylor just to sneak into a lower bowl.

Iowa State Cyclones

Last year: 4-8 overall, 1-7 Big 12 WHY THEY'LL WIN: Because although they're considered the weakest link in a doughy soft Big 12 North, they're still in the Big 12 North. Wins can be had by a properly motivated and well coached team. New head coach Gene Chizik is an unknown as a head man although he's a noted star defensive coordinator (Texas fans might quibble with last year's below average output). If the players take to him there's something about a team believing in itself that sometimes make them play above true ability. But really I'm grasping here. The schedule has some winnable games against Kent State, Northern Iowa (scary last year!) and Toledo. The Cyclones also get to host rival Iowa and Ames is a sneaky challenging place to play. Bonus: it's throwback uniform night against Iowa. WHY THEY WON'T: Malaise. Longtime coach Dan McCarney dearly loved the program and was a decent coach, but he never got this program where its fans wanted it to be. A new attitude is needed but that doesn't happen overnight and new coaches tend to purge rosters in their first year. That leads to depleted depth, hard feelings and confusion. Such difficulty is exacerbated at schools like Iowa State with only modest winning tradition. There are some quality returning pieces like quarterback Bret Meyer and receiver Todd Blythe, but overall Iowa State brings back just 11 starters, amongst the lowest in the NCAA. PROGNOSIS: No bowls for you! I'm guessing coach Gene Chizik realizes this year is already a wash and will concentrate on the off-field stuff and hope that leads to winning down the road. There are opportunities to surprise like against rival Iowa and home games against Texas and Oklahoma who may be looking past the Cyclones the way Missouri did last year. Overall this is a tough year and there's not much to be done other than make a good showing each time out. By my rough estimate, I see this being a 3-4 win season, with one or two chances at a conference win.

Baylor Bears

Last year: 4-8 overall, 3-5 Big 12 WHY THEY'LL WIN: Because they have to if coach Guy Morriss wants to 100% ensure he has a job here next year. Bucking convention, the Bears installed a Texas Tech styled offense last year. It is now year two for the scheme and a lot of last year's rough patches should be smoothed out. Two of their receivers can flat out fly in David Gettis and Thomas White. Also, there are three decent options at quarterback; one of them is bound to stick. Middle linebacker Joe Pawalek was second team all conference as just a freshman last year. Aaaaand I think this team has some fight in it. They got waxed last year by teams with big offenses like Texas, Oklahoma State and Texas Tech, but hang tough against more conventional foes. WHY THEY WON'T: The defense is still a sieve. Baylor allowed an average of 191 rush yards a game last year and a dismal 5 yards/carry. Three starters are back on the defensive line but that may not be a good thing. Overall the team returns just 11 starters, amongst the lowest in D-IA. Both quality corners from last year graduated, weakening the secondary a bit against an increasingly pass-happy Big 12. Finally, the running game is nothing to write home about. Last year's top rusher is gone and what remains is a complete unknown. PROGNOSIS: This one's fairly easy. Half the schedule is manageable, the other half (TCU, Texas A&M, Texas, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Texas Tech) is murder. Phil Steele is calling this a rebuilding year but I think the Bears have some quality pieces to at least compete against the manageable part of their schedule. That still means a season without a bowl trip, but I could see another outing like last year. With a little luck, Baylor could have gone from 4-8 to 7-5, so maybe the ball bounces their way this time around.

Colorado Buffaloes

Last year: 2-10 overall, 2-6 Big 12 WHY THEY'LL WIN: Because Colorado can't stay down forever. As coach Dan Hawkins reminded everyone in the offseason, this is Division I football! The Zen-tastic, sky-diving coach is impatient for some wins and is going to drive this team to overachieve and not drop games to I-AA foes. Cody Hawkins is expected to take over at quarterback and he could be an important piece in rebuilding the Colorado franchise. Most of the skill talent returns on offense and two well regarded transfers should spice up the defense. For all his passing hype, Hawkins engineered a sneaky good rush attack last year as Colorado averaged 173 yards a game and 4.5 yards/carry on the ground with a dwarf named Hugh Charles in the backfield. WHY THEY WON'T: Schedule. Besides the conference slate, Colorado must travel to Arizona State in the September heat and then turn around and host Florida State the next weekend. The Buffaloes surprised a lot of people in hanging close on the road against Georgia last year, but this back-to-back could be demoralizing. The defensive roster looks improved but is still patchwork and there's not much in the way of depth. PROGNOSIS: The Buffaloes should improve their win total over last year and look much improved, but there are some rough spots in the schedule. If they can keep their heads on straight they could surprise and overachieve. Colorado was "in" most of their games last year but lacked enough offensive pop to close the deal several times. If the offense is improved, let's call it a six win season.

Kansas Jayhawks

Last year: 6-6 overall, 3-5 Big 12 WHY THEY'LL WIN: Because coach Mark Mangino knows how to win here. A creampuff out-of-conference slate helps, but Magino's always found a way to two or three conference wins. The Jayhawks are tough at home and get seven home games this year. Cornerback/receiver Aqib Talib is a potential All American. The defense returns eight starters, most of whom are rapidly improving juniors and sophomores. The schedule is fairly light, and they already have the benefit of playing in the Big 12 North. WHY THEY WON'T: The offense could be pathetic this year. Quarterback Kerry Meier was adequate last year but he's still just a sophomore. Workhorse tailback Jon Cornish and his 1,500 yards are now graduated. The defense is still young. PROGNOSIS: Kansas State should open up 4-0, although they did lose to Toledo last year. Games against Baylor, Colorado, Kansas State and Iowa State are winnable. Games against Texas A&M, Nebraska, Oklahoma State and Missouri less so. The Jayhawks should flirt with a bowl bid, but they'll be right at that edge of five or six wins.

Big 12 Football Preview '07: The Dregs originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Thu, 09 Aug 2007 15:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Best schedule: Nebraska

The Huskers will get a chance to catch their breath in week four with a game against Ball State, but the first three weeks of the schedule are pretty brutal. Nebraska opens with Nevada who went 8-5 a year ago and lost 21-20 to Miami (FL) in the MPC Computers Bowl. The following week the Huskers travel to Wake Forest to take on the defending ACC champs at home. The next week Nebraska will host the #1 team in the country in USC. The Huskers will be hoping for some Memorial Stadium magic as they look to avenge a 28-10 loss to the Trojans in 2006. Nebraska's two biggest conference games are also both on the road at Missouri and at Texas. The Missouri game should decide the winner of the Big 12's North division. Now you see why the daunting schedule puts a dampener on some Husker fans' expectations for 2007.

Worst Schedule: Kansas

Kansas already ran away with the Big 12 Bill Snyder around, but FanHouse wasn't the only one to notice the paltry nature of the Jayhawk's nonconference slate. Kansas opens the season with games against Central Michigan, Southeastern Louisiana, Toledo and Florida International. And to top it off, all four nonconference games are in Lawrence. Those are some damn fine, home cooked cream puffs. Of the group, only Central Michigan played in a bowl game last year. This year they have a new coach and a new system and are a middling MAC team at best. Southeastern Louisiana is Division I-AA and the Lions went just 2-9 a year ago. Yikes! During the Big 12 schedule the Jayhawks miss Oklahoma and Texas, play Nebraska at home and Missouri at a neutral site. The schedule is good news, however, for Jayhawk coach Mark Mangino who is feeling the heat after some recent comments about increased expectations from his athletic director.

Best Game: Oklahoma State at Georgia, September 1

The SEC loves to talk about how strong their conference is. The Big 12 gets two early attempts to find out. In the first week of the season, Kansas State travels to Auburn and Oklahoma State heads out to meet Georgia. The more intriguing of the match ups in my opinion is the Oklahoma State Georgia game. Oklahoma State is looking to prove they are more than just an also-ran in the Big 12's South division. We all know Boone Pickens has been busy rounding up money and improving facilities, but what's the payoff? This contest will provide the Cowboys with a national stage on which to showcase their progress. Georgia will likely be a Top 10-15 team and always has a tough defense. What I can't wait to find out is whether it can stop the high-powered Oklahoma State offense led by Bobby Reid, Dantrell Savage and Adarius Bowman.

Weirdest Game: Baylor at Buffalo, September 22

Guy Morriss (pictured at right) has clearly brought an "Anyone, Anywhere" attitude to Waco. Even if that means taking it to the road to match up with perennial powers like ... Buffalo. Yes, fans you'll have to wait three whole weeks to watch what might be the worst college football game of the year. Turner Gill is hoping to turn things around at Buffalo, but the Bulls aren't there yet. A year ago they finished 2-10 and the team has just 7 victories over the past five years. But perhaps a visit from Baylor can boost the Bulls' average attendance, which was just over 16,000 per game a year ago. I can't really decide what to think about this game from a Baylor perspective. I guess it must just be really tough to find opponents that look like guaranteed wins for the Bears on paper. And apparently to make it work, you actually have to go on the road. Who knew?

Big 12 Football Preview '07: The Schedule originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Thu, 09 Aug 2007 07:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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1. Gary Pinkel, Missouri

It seems so long ago now that Pinkel was once a hot coaching candidate for bigger jobs like the one at the University of Washington. Dude, what happened? Pinkel begins his seventh season in Columbia with a 37-35 record. He has one bowl win in three bowl trips, and three winning seasons in six tries. Missouri has a long history of inexplicable collapse and defeat, so natives are restless after last year's terrible finish. Missouri soared to a 6-0 start before finishing 2-4 in the Tigers' final six games. Thing is, expectations were low last year but after being anointed the Big 12 North Division favorites at conference Media Day, the pressure is on like whoa. What's interesting about Pinkel is that stories last year proclaimed him a changed man. He apparently was a bit of a "pucker pucker pucker" guy but finally learned to relax and his team clearly responded. Er, at least until that seventh game when things went all Michigan State-level weird. Whether it means a mid-season Hawaiian vacation or a few trips to Tom Petty concerts for some firsthand or secondary smoke, coach probably needs to find ways to take it down a notch and let his team win games.

2. Dennis Franchione, Texas A&M

The Aggies' coach would easily top this list but for one thing: he's almost too expensive to fire. It also helps to have ended the 2006 regular season with a stirring defeat of Texas, the program's first big victory in the Franchione era. Of course, symbolic of A&M fans' frustration, the Aggies were crushed the very next game 45-10 in the Holiday Bowl by their cultural opposites: the Cal bears. Overall in four full seasons in College Station, Franchione owns a 25-23 record. His two bowl appearances have both been flops, losing 38-7 to Tennesssee along with the Cal loss. He is 1-9 combined against Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas. And he lost 77-0 to Oklahoma in 2003. Did I mention there's a YouTube video out there somewhere (difficult to find at the moment) of former quarterback Reggie McNeal rolling his eyes during an offensive huddle as Franchione was instructing the players on what their next play should be? Did I mention the man most responsible for his hiring and the hiring of the school's Athletic Director - former school president Dr. Robert Gates - is gone and in public service now with the White House? With allies falling and just enough wins to maintain some prestige within the program, it pays to have a fat buyout. I actually think "Coach Fran" is a quality coach, but he's never fit in with the Aggie culture and his rumored paranoia and severity outdoes even their own deep rooted angst towards outsiders in general and the University of Texas in particular. That said, Franchione appears to have narrowed the gap with other conference powers. Unlike the ridiculous beatings the Aggies took in 2003 (48-12 loss to Nebraska, 77-0 to Oklahoma and 46-15 to Texas), last year was downright palatable. Oklahoma and Nebraska escaped with a pair of one point victories (17-16 and 28-27), and for once the Aggies finished against Texas. They knocked Colt McCoy out of the game late and scored the game-winner with less than two minutes to go capping a stirring late drive with Stephen McGee's touchdown run. Last year was proof the gap has closed, but close won't cut it this year as antsy fans want more real wins. We shall see ...

3. Guy Morriss, Baylor

Morriss is the first of two "we like him but he's not winning" type coaches on this list. The higher-ups at Baylor know what a difficult situation the Bears' coaching job is. But they also know it's very unlikely they can invest in multiple losing seasons and hope someone like Morriss eventually turns into a Frank Beamer. So, the pressure's on. Entering his fifth year in Waco, Morriss owns a 15-31 record. They came close to a winning effort in 2005, but finished at 5-6. That season included a 16-13 overtime loss to Texas A&M, an eight point defeat to Nebraska and the memorable coulda-woulda-should 37-30 double overtime loss to Oklahoma. The Bears haven't been the same since, dropping 11 of their last 16 games including a pair of shutout losses. The Bears' transition to a scattershot offense similar to Texas Tech's last year may buy Morriss some time, but newspapers are starting to write him off after several seasons of positive press.

4. Mark Mangino, Kansas

Like Morriss, Mangino is a "we like him but he's not winning" coach. The portly coach owns a 25-35 record heading into his sixth season with the Jayhawks. To Mangino's credit, he has taken Kansas to two bowl games and recorded one bowl win. He's also never had worse than four wins since his inaugural stinker where Kansas went just 2-10. Mangino is considered an offensive guru and has posted some good numbers, twice nearing 30 points a game in his five years. I guess what I'm getting at is that he's done a decent if uninspiring job. Sitting safely at the back of this list seems fair. Plus, at the end of the day Kansas is a basketball school. They'd like their football team to have a winning record and post bowl wins, but so long as players are staying out of trouble and football keeps paying the bills, the head coach can get a little slack.

Big 12 Football Preview '07: The Hot Seat originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Wed, 08 Aug 2007 19:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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1. Frank Okam, DT, Texas

Big Frank Okam isn't a bad guy. In fact, he's quite often a hell of a football player. But he suffers from a disease that frustratingly plagues so many defensive tackles: inconsistency. Mix in some Texas-sized hype and you have a guy who, you know, maybe, sorta, well ... is a bit overrated. The Longhorns had a dominant run defense last year, surrendering 61 yards a game and 2.3 yards/carry. However, former defensive coordinator Gene Chizik recently revealed that Texas had sold out against the run to get those numbers. Ideally a talented front four of Okam, tackles Derek Lokey and Roy Miller and ends Brian Robison and Tim Crowder should have been able to control the line almost by themselves. It sounds like they needed a little help however, which means the big man in the middle wasn't quite living up to expectation. On the year, Okam had just four tackles for loss among his 38 tackles (not counting the two sacks). He can do better, much much better. Texas' young secondary needs help and if the safeties and linebackers are having to help against the run, people will be pointing some angry fingers at Okam for not dominating the line like he should.

2. Jorvorskie Lane, TB, Texas A&M

It's painful to compile a "most overrated" list because quite often those most overrated are among my favorite players. Look no further than ginormous Aggie tailback Jorvorskie Lane. Unlike the 270-pound ogre at Texas named Henry Melton who has now switched to defensive line, this ogre is a legitimate tailback. Lane owns a stunningly quick pair of feet and has some wiggle to him. Although he can pound the ball, Lane has a little of that "early Jerome Bettis" in him in that he can sidestep and bounce outside for some lengthy gains. That said, he gets a little more hype than he deserves. Lane isn't quite the workhorse 20-carry back one would expect from someone his size. Nor is he a completely dominant inside runner. Few will talk about it, but the emergence of the speedier Mike Goodson has been great for Lane's career as he can be more of a complementary runner and have fresh legs when called upon to pound the ball inside the 20's.

3. Marlon Lucky, TB, Nebraska

Before going any further, let it be known that Marlon Lucky has a chance to make me look absolutely foolish this year. Ok? Good. Lucky was regarded as one of the nation's top running backs out of high school. He was wined and dined by major powers including USC just down the road from his Los Angeles home. And then he went to Nebraska. Much was expected of Lucky but he has yet to deliver. After sharing the stage the last few years with Brandon Jackson (now onto the NFL), Cody Glenn, Kenny Wilson, Leon Jackson (now at Hawaii) and others, Lucky is expected to own the number one job this year and never relinquish it. To date, he has but 857 yards and a 4.7 rushing average to his name. So much more is expected. Tailback has long been considered a plug-and-play position, so it is shocking to see Lucky's glacial progress at earning the starting job. He has plenty enough speed and size (6-0/210) to be a primary ballcarrier, what's left is to finally take advantage of an opportunity and use those God-given abilities to get yards and make plays.

4. Chase Daniel, QB, Missouri

Daniel is another Big 12 favorite of mine. I absolutely love his moxie, dual-threat style of play and ability to run the tricky Missouri offense. There were doubts after Brad Smith graduated whether Missouri could stay out of the Big 12 cellar. Daniel erased those concerns immediately and went about leading Missouri to an 8-4 record. He beat out highly touted Chase Patton then threw for 3,527 yards at a 64% completion rate to go with 28 touchdowns to just 10 interceptions. For kicks he also ran for 379 net yards and four touchdowns. In a bit of a surprise, Missouri is now the Big 12 media's choice to win the North division and play in the conference title game. Personally, I think Nebraska makes a repeat trip this year and some of that has to do with doubts about Daniel. As much as I admire his play, Missouri went all Michigan State last year and "puckered up" after a scorching 6-0 start. In a very winnable road game, Missouri struggled to get the necessary second-half scores and lost to Texas A&M, 25-19. Daniel threw for over 300 yards but had some bad turnovers and never moved the chains late in the game. From that point forward, Missouri won just two more games and squandered a likely division crown after inexplicably losing 21-16 to Iowa State. Sadly, that's been the heartbreak at Missouri for many years. The Tigers have the talent to win the division, but until they can get the leadership to overcome self-destructive losses, I have my doubts. Last year was a learning experience for Daniel but until I "see it" I won't believe that he can overcome that bad luck culture. Thus, he earns the overrated nod in spite of his abilities.

5. Limas Sweed, WR, Texas

I don't mean to pick on the Texas guys, it just happens that way sometimes. Limas Sweed patterns himself after a great Texas receiver, Roy Williams. Sweed will be the first to admit that at this point in his career, he's no Roy Williams. Which is alright, as Sweed's turned into one of the Big 12's and nation's finest receivers. But I just don't see the dominance that Williams had. Sweed did make a big jump last year but ESPN's already come calling and expectations are for him to be in that pantheon of elite elite elite receivers. We shall see. It is both a blessing and a curse to work alongside a host of other talented receivers. Sweed can get more single coverage, but he also loses receptions and big numbers to teammates like Quan Cosby, Billy Pittman and Jordan Shipley. With Colt McCoy only getting better and more trusted with the offense, Sweed's numbers should improve but can he be that singular force like a Terrell Owens? The national media is expecting him - however unfairly - to be that guy.

Big 12 Football Preview '07: Most Overrated originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Wed, 08 Aug 2007 15:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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1. Dantrell Savage, RB, Oklahoma State

Savage might not exactly be "under the radar," but he definitely doesn't get the respect he deserves. I've rarely seen his name mentioned among the Big 12's elite backs, but I think that will change in 2007. He's a homerun threat that can go the distance every time he touches it, and is especially deadly when cutting back against the pursuit. Savage got off to a slow start, but ultimately put up big numbers during his first year in Stillwater. Two of his better efforts came against prominent Big 12 foes gaining 134 yards against Texas A&M and 117 yards and two scores against Nebraska. Savage plays in an offensive system that seems primed for great things this season. He'll also be under less pressure to perform with the talent that Mike Gundy has quietly amassed around him. So far the hype seems focused on quarterback Bobby Reid and wide receiver Adarius Bowman, but watch out for Dantrell Savage in 2007.

2. Joe Garcia, S, Texas Tech

It's not too difficult to get lost in Lubbock, especially if you aren't a quarterback or receiver in Mike Leach's vaunted offensive attack. Garcia is neither, but he is a punishing tackler from his safety spot. In 2006, he finished second on the Red Raiders in tackles with 87 and also collected an interception and a fumble recovery. Garcia is big At 6-2 and 215 pounds, and hits like a linebacker. His play reminds me a lot of former Texas safety Van Malone from the early 1990s. Garcia teams with another fine safety Darcel McBath, to make the secondary the most talented portion of the Texas Tech defense. Garcia doesn't get much love from casual college football observers, but in watching Tech play it is hard to keep your eyes off his attacking style of play. My hunch is NFL scouts will also notice Garcia's tenacious attitude and ability to set the tone for his teammates.

3. Corey McKeon, LB, Nebraska

The Nebraska defense has been rather inconsistent during Bill Callahan's tenure in Lincoln. One consistent component, however, has been the steady play of middle linebacker Corey McKeon. McKeon was a break out star in 2005 when he finished with a team-high 98 tackles, and 22 TFL, which was a school record for linebackers. McKeon was rewarded for those efforts with Second-Team All-Big 12 from the AP. In 2006, McKeon continued to display a nose for the ball and finished 3rd on the team in stops. His efforts were limited some by injuries, but the junior still served as a vocal leader for the Blackshirts. Despite his reliable play over the past two seasons, McKeon has continually been overshadowed by teammate Bo Ruud, who many argue garners recognition based solely on the name his brother made. Whatever the reason, McKeon continues to go unrecognized. But his solid play and entertaining interviews will clearly be missed by Husker fans after this season.

4. Shannon Woods, RB, Texas Tech

Mike Leach's offense makes it easy to forget about the running back, which in turn, only makes Shannon Woods' job all that easier. But when your quarterback is chucking it 50-60 times per game, you're unlikely to find the spotlight. Woods' efforts, however, speak for themselves. A year ago he finished 14th nationally and first in the Big 12 with 1680 all-purpose yards. His quick burst and ability to catch the ball out of the backfield allow Leach to utilize him in the same way as former Tech star Taurean Henderson. Woods could arguably be the number one player on this list, if not for one minor detail. He finished the spring second on the depth chart at running back after finding himself in Coach Leach's doghouse. Now, that's underrated. We can expect Woods to earn back his starting gig with a little hustle and effort in fall camp. If that occurs he'll be back terrorizing Big 12 defenses before you know it.

Big 12 Football Preview '07: Most Underrated originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Wed, 08 Aug 2007 11:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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1. Reggie Smith, S/CB, Oklahoma

When deciding on the top spot on this list, my major criteria was which player would I most like to play for my team of rooting interest. Once that groundwork was laid, the choice was obvious. Apart from writing the university's official NCAA appeal, Reggie Smith does everything for Oklahoma. During his career he's played cornerback, safety, wide receiver, and also returns punts and kickoffs. When he's not on the field, the definitive team player can often be spotted gently massaging the ego overwrought muscles of Bob Stoops. He's just that kind of guy. If Oklahoma's quarterback position remains unsettled much longer, I'm not convinced Smith won't get a shot. In 2006, Smith made 41 tackles, grabbed three interceptions and broke up eight passes on his way to earning All Big-12 honors. He also had a 62-yard punt return for a touchdown and averaged 22.6 yards per kickoff return. The plan is to move Smith back to cornerback fulltime in 2007. It that happens, Big 12 coaches can plan on limiting the passing game to one side of the field. The bottom line is that Reggie Smith is everything fans liked about Charles Woodson circa 1997. Fortunately, Smith also has none of the crap that you despise Woodson for now.

2. Frank Okam, DT, Texas

Big-bodied defensive tackles that fill gaps and alter gameplans apparently grow on trees in Texas. Really huge trees whose branches bear the hefty fruit that eventually winds down the I-35 corridor and into the awaiting arms of Mack Brown. The Longhorns' current stout star on the defensive front is Frank Okam. Okam could have opted for the NFL draft following the 2006 season, but instead opted to eat, sack, and be merry for free, much to the chagrin of Big 12 offensive linemen. Okam has 26 career starts and a proven track record of impermeable run support. Texas will operate under new defensive coordinator Duane Akina, who ditches the "Co-" from his title a year ago. Akina has hinted at an aggressive, attacking defensive style. Okam's 6-5, 320-pound presence should help bring Akina's plans to light. With his ability to tie up blockers and generally cause havoc with his corpulence, defensive ends Brian Orakpo and Aaron Lewis will get to pin their ears back and fly around the backfield.

3. Adarius Bowman, WR, Oklahoma State

Oklahoma State might not be ready to contend for BCS honors, but Mike Gundy has quietly put together an explosive offense. The most volatile of the Cowboys' performers is wide receiver Adarius Bowman, who transferred from North Carolina in 2005. Bowman, who possesses a perfect blend of size and speed, might be the most talented receiver in the country. He averaged a monstrous 19.7 yards per catch to go along with 12 touchdowns in 2006. Bowman's talents caused particular fits for the Kansas defense as he torched the Jayhawks for 13 receptions, 300 yards and 4 touchdowns. Big 12 defensive coordinators now must imagine what Bowman is capable of in his second year in the Cowboy's offense. To help stay in shape Bowman spent the winter as a part of the OSU basketball team, where his 6-4, 220-pound still stood out. All-in-all, if Bowman can avoid the late-year drop off in production he experienced a year ago, he should push for a bevy of post-season honors as he showcases his wares to NFL scouts.

4. Colt McCoy, QB, Texas

McCoy makes the list not only for his unfathomable 2006 season, but also because of his seemingly unlimited potential. He responded to the challenge of taking over for Vince Young like he was Mack Brown's personal never-paranoid android. McCoy threw 29 TD passes a year ago setting a UT record and tying the NCAA's single-season freshman mark. More importantly he took care of the ball allowing the UT offense to expand beyond a never-ending display of zone-read madness. Much was made of McCoy's small town Cinderella story, but don't let the goofy grin and the "Aw, shucks" persona fool you. He'll chew up the very heart of your defense and ride off into the sunset in a way befitting of his name. McCoy seems completely unshakeable under pressure as I witnessed first hand last October in Lincoln. With his team trailing, snow falling and the most raucous crowd I've ever been a part of sensing an upset, McCoy calmly engineered a late drive to snatch victory from the Huskers' bewildered jaws. I hate him so much, I secretly love him.

5. Ian Campbell, DE, Kansas State

Some might be surprised by Campbell's selection, but the guy is a bona fide talent. He enters the season as one of just four returning players nationally to record at least 11.5 sacks and 17.5 tackles for losses in 2006. At 6-5 and 232 pounds, he has decent size, and far too much speed for most tackles. He finished the 2006 campaign by leading the Wildcats in tackles and sacks and had at least one sack in 9-of-13 games. Not bad for a former walk-on. When watching Campbell the first thing you notice is his non-stop, intensity-fueled motor. His team feeds off his eerie fire-starter presence. Case in point, Kansas State's upset of Texas. Although only credited with five tackles in the game, he also had an 11-yard sack and recovered two fumbles flipping the field in the Wildcats' favor. Campbell's versatility allows him to line up at defensive end and outside linebacker, which is invaluable given the Wildcat's use of multiple fronts. That flexibility is a nightmare for offensive coordinators who must account for Campbell on every snap.

Big 12 Football Preview '07: Top Five Players originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Wed, 08 Aug 2007 07:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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1. Oklahoma Defensive Tackle

As noted in Big Shoes to Fill, the Big 12 is enjoying rare stability. Most position "battles", particularly among the major teams, are fairly settled. Look no further than the Oklahoma defensive tackle position. One of last year's sometimes starting tackles - Carl Pendleton - left the team and an extra year of eligibility to take care of a family member and complete his studies. That left a surprising opening for massively talented but forgotten redshirt freshman Gerald McCoy. In tapes and all-star game appearances, McCoy has been nothing but dominating. The redshirt was a surprise but word is he would have definitely been in the mix this year with or without Pendleton. He's penciled in as the starter alongside fellow tackle and honorable mention Big 12 performer, senior Steven Coleman. McCoy must still battle with last year's co-starter, Cory Bennett (pictured). Coleman himself is being pushed by another awesome awesome awesome recruit in sophomore DeMarcus Granger. If that's not enough, the Sooners can go three deep with sophomore Cordero Moore and redshirt freshman Adrian Taylor. This group is absolutely loaded and reps will be well-earned. The starters may be set, but that doesn't mean there isn't a huge battle for all available scraps of playing time.

2. Texas Strong-Side Linebacker

Much as with Oklahoma's defensive tackles, this battle is more about playing time than the starting gig. The awesomely named senior Robert Killebrew is the starter here heading into the fall. He's a fine football player and a former high level recruit, but is also an outgoing senior and Texas faithful are itching to see what mega-recruit Sergio Kindle (pictured) can do with more playing time. Kindle played sparingly last year as a true frosh, but shows immense promise both against the rush and attacking the passer. This battle is complicated after Kindle was arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence several weeks back. It was recently announced that Texas suspended Kindle for the school's first three games. He was a standout two-way player (tailback) in high school and possesses rare athleticism and football skills. When he gets back ... watch out. In the meantime, redshirt freshman Dustin Earnest will mop up those extra game reps until Kindle returns.

3. Colorado Quarterback

Colorado coach Dan Hawkins is an offensive guy, and no fancy offense can do its job without the appropriate quarterback. Last year's starter Bernard Jackson (pictured) was adequate at times as the Buffaloes transitioned schemes under their first-year coach. He matured as a passer and his athleticism kept a lot of drives alive, but his skill set isn't the ideal fit for this offense. Enter redshirt freshman Cody Hawkins, the coach's son. Hawkins lacks athleticism, height and arm strength, but is a quick-release artist and system guy who may be a good fit for the offense. He compares himself to a Chris Leak or Drew Brees. He is the likely starter, as Jackson spent part of the spring with receivers and returning kicks. Hawkins will get a push from JUCO transfer Nick Nelson and whoever starts may have to share some game reps with Jackson who is not completely out of the picture.

5. Baylor Quarterback

Hey, they're running a Texas Tech-like offense and are desperate for good numbers, why not Baylor? Big boned Kent State senior transfer Michael Machen is the favorite here. He easily has the most collegiate experience of the bunch and owns good size at 6-6/237. However, he's also a rental and the program might be better served developing a long-term option. Sophomore Blake Szymanski earned three starts last year after starter Shawn Bell got hurt. He was unimpressive (53% completions, 4 TD/7 INT), but was also as green as could be. He's also in the mix but there's a third name to worry about here in college football's second quarterback named John David: JUCO transfer John David Weed. Sorting this out will be dicey as everyone has some form of college experience. Weed and Machen have that eligibility clock winding down and should be a bit more competitive here. It doesn't say much for Szymanski's chances when the coach brings in two JUCO transfers instead of two frosh understudies, but the kid's salty and that always counts for something.

Big 12 Football Preview '07: Key Position Battles originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Tue, 07 Aug 2007 19:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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3. Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma

Here we have another Sooner redshirt. It seems like that group could have competed for the Big 12 North title a year ago. Anyway, McCoy was the 2006 USA Today National Defensive Player of the Year and many thought he would quickly step into a role in Norman. Instead, the Sooners' depth on the defensive line allowed him the redshirt season. In 2007, he should see plenty of action in the rotation alongside DeMarcus Granger. McCoy has great quickness and all of the measurables NFL scouts crave. If the spring was any indication, McCoy should live up to the hype in 2007.

4. Richetti Jones, DE, Oklahoma State

With new facilities and Boone Pickens' money, the Cowboys are starting to make a big move in recruiting. Richetti Jones might be the most promising prize for their efforts to date. Oklahoma State lost all four starters from their 2006 defensive line, which gives Jones a chance to contend for early playing time. The 6-foot-3, 240-pound defensive end is extremely quick off the ball and very athletic. Those attributes allowed him to accrue 53 sacks during his high school career. Jones missed part of his senior campaign due to a hip injury, but should be fully recovered this fall. Expect to see him push for the starting job after making a name for himself early on passing downs.

5. Ryan Miller, OT, Colorado

Colorado opened the spring with just six healthy offensive linemen. With that type of help needed, the Buffs are fortunate to have Ryan Miller available this fall. Miller is 6-foot-8, 310-pounds and was considered a top offensive lineman recruit a year ago. A native of Littleton, Colorado, Miller spurned offers from USC, Notre Dame, Miami and many others to play for Dan Hawkins (pictured at right) in Boulder. While true freshman rarely offensive linemen rarely play in the Big 12, I'd be surprised if Hawkins' first big-time recruit didn't see the field a ton in 2007.

Big 12 Football Preview '07: Five Impact Freshmen originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Tue, 07 Aug 2007 15:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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1. Colt McCoy, QB, Texas (Colt McCoy)

McCoy is a redundant choice, but for good reason. The shoes he is filling are his own big shoes as the Longhorns' now sophomore set all kinds of Texas and national freshman passing records. McCoy completed 68% of his passes for 2,570 yards and 29 touchdowns to just seven interceptions. He's back, and so are nearly all of his receivers and tailbacks. McCoy took a beating last year, but when healthy was nearly unbeateable with only the Ohio State defeat in his second start a true blemish (he was knocked out of the Kansas State game early and also very late against rival Texas A&M, both losses). McCoy is also hoping to extend the quarterback legacy built by Longhorn Messiah Vince Young. Put simply, the Texas quarterback position at present is second only to USC's when it comes to expectations and recent legacy of awards and championships. The eyes of Texas are upon him, can he deliver once more?

2. The Linebackers, LB, Oklahoma (Rufus Alexander and Zach Latimer)

Gone from what is an otherwise great-looking Oklahoma defense this year are the 202 tackles, 5.5 sacks, 4 interceptions and 9 break-ups collected last year by linebackers Rufus Alexander and Zach Latimer. Both Sooners were multi-year starters and gave stability to a defense with a young secondary and defensive line. Those units have now matured but won't have Alexander and Latimer around to direct traffic. Fortunately for Oklahoma, the Sooners are loaded at linebacker. JUCO transfer Mike Reed is already earning publicity without having taken a snap. He's expected to replace Latimer. If Reed disappoints, true frosh and local high school legend Austin Box may get a shot in the middle. Sophomore LaMont Robinson who was also a well-regarded recruit may also be in the mix. At Alexander's weakside spot, senior Lewis Baker (pictured) will get the first crack at replacing an All American. Baker converted from safety last year and made 34 stops in reserve action. Waiting in line behind him is another highly anticipated youngster in Ryan Reynolds. Reynolds joined the Sooners out of a Las Vegas high school and made three tackles as a true frosh before redshirting due to a knee injury. If he's healthy, he will push Baker for reps.

3. Sam Keller, QB, Nebraska (Zac Taylor)

Although not named the Huskers' starter, it is expected that Arizona State transfer Sam Keller will be Bill Callahan's choice over last year's #2, Joe Ganz. Keller is a senior transfer after escaping the bizarre drama of being named the starter then watching teammates revolt and pressure coach Dirk Koetter into naming understudy Rudy Carpenter the starter instead. He will have but one year to meet the growing expectations of the Nebraska fan base. In eight career starts and several backup stints at Arizona State, Keller threw for 3,018 yards and 26 touchdowns to 11 interceptions. Keller is a bit of a wild on-field presence, making hand gestures and running around like crazy. This can be both good and bad as he's had both great performances but also bad ones. He is most remembered for a stunning second-half meltdown against #1 USC in 2005. After pushing the Sun devils to a 21-3 halftime lead, Keller went haywire, throwing four second-half interceptions (five overall) and let USC back into the game. Final score: USC 38, Arizona State 28. He'll have his shot at redemption this year as Nebraska will host the top-ranked Trojans. Keller replaces the steady and underappreciated Zac Taylor who masterfully transitioned Nebraska's offense from decades of option football to a modern "west coast" attack. He wasn't the greatest player out there, but in two years Taylor left his mark at the program and showed that Nebraska could quickly transition into a modern offense which has helped recruits like Keller buy into the radical changes instituted by coach Bill Callahan.

4. The Defensive Line, DL, Nebraska (Adam Carriker & Co.)

Hey look, another "unit" instead of a name player. Like I said earlier, we've gotta think outside of the box a little here. Nebraska must replace its entire starting defensive line from 2006. Gone from a unit that allowed 117 yards and 3.7 yards per carry are both defensive tackles and a pair of drafted ends in Adam Carriker (first round) and Jay Moore (4th round). The defensive line has been, and always will be, the foundation of any defense. To lose that much continuity and experience in one fell swoop is staggering. The men responsible with holding Nebraska's defense together this year will be junior ends Barry Turner (pictured) and Zach Potter and tackles Ty Steinkuhler (a junior) and Ndamukong Suh (a sophomore). Already capable of assaulting copy editors with their difficult names, Steinkuhler and Suh do share some experience, combining for 46 tackles, 3.5 sacks and 9.5 tackles for loss. Turner was a standout as a frosh, netting six sacks as a pass-rush specialist but declined a bit last year. I know next to nothing about Potter, which means he's probably the weak link in the line. Turner and Suh earn most of the attention, and could potentially be All Conference standouts. 5. The Secondary, CB/S, Texas (Aaron Ross, Tarrell Brown & Michael Griffin) Although the collective performance of Texas' secondary was putrid last year, they still leave big shoes to fill. The Longhorns have graduated All American and Thorpe Award winner Aaron Ross (NFL draft first round), All Conference safety Michael Griffin (first round) and cornerback Tarrell Brown (fifth round). For various reasons, this group was porous, allowing 58% completions, a school-record 236 yards per game and 21 touchdowns to just 13 interceptions. Last year's defensive coordinator Gene Chizik recently said their defense sold out to stop the run and left the secondary to fend for itself too much. That may be the case, but that group still had talent and plenty of experience to have played better. Expectations will be for this year's new faces to put out some of last year's fires. That starts with corners Chykie Brown (a redshirt freshman) and Deon Beasley (sophomore). Although young, both are highly regarded and listed as the starters in Phil Steele's College Football Preview. Also in the mix at corner will be junior Ryan Palmer (pictured) and freshmen Curtis Brown and Ben Wells. At safety, the Griffin brothers have been broken up as Michael moved onto the NFL. Senior Marcus is back, however, and he'll have do-it-all Drew Kelson next to him at free safety. Also in the mix will be redshirt freshman James Henry and journeyman vets Erick Jackson and Tyrell Gatewood. Honorable Mention Allen Patrick, DeMarco Murray & Chris Brown, TB, Oklahoma (Adrian Peterson) Jake Sharp, TB, Kansas (Jon Cornish) Dallas Griffin, C, Texas (Lyle Sendlein) Antwon Moore, LB, Kansas State (Brandon Archer)

Big 12 Football Preview '07: Big Shoes to Fill originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Tue, 07 Aug 2007 11:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Most Disappointing

Iowa State (team). The Cylones were coming off of bowl appearances in five of the last six years in 2006. They returned their quarterback and his favorite target in Todd Blythe. So what went wrong? How did they slip from Big 12 North contender to 4-8 (1-7 in the conference)? Bad luck and injuries account for some, but most of the blame lies with the team's overall suckiness. They finished 81st in total offense and 102nd in total defense. That won't win you many games. But Dan McCarney resigned following the season and Gene Chizik's Cyclones are looking for less disappointment in 2007. Adrian Peterson (player). I know with injuries it's not entirely his fault - although the broken collarbone did result from a dive into the endzone during a blowout of Iowa State - but his 2006 season was nothing short of a disappointment. College football fans knew we'd never get to watch Peterson for four full seasons, but 2.5 years didn't feel like nearly enough.

Most Improved

Texas A&M (team), Stephen McGee (player). Texas A&M's resurgence in 2006 helped keep the perpetual flame under Dennis Franchione's seat a little less intense. The Aggies didn't just go from 5-6 to 9-4, they completely re-hauled their team and showed improvement in most statistical categories. The progress was most evident defensively where the A&M went from 107th nationally in total defense to 46th. In the conference the Aggies improved from 3-5 in 2005 to 5-3 a year ago, including a pair of one-point losses to Oklahoma and Nebraska. Most importantly, Texas A&M upset Texas in Austin of all places, 12-7. That little bit of knowledge allows Aggie fans far-and-wide to forget all about the disaster that was the Holiday Bowl. A big reason for the Aggies' turnaround was quarterback Stephen McGee. This is a guy who went from failing to beat out the oft-maligned Reggie McNeal to leading his team to an upset over the rival Longhorns. While McGee had looked decent after taking over for an injured McNeal for the final five and a half quarters of 2005, few were prepared for his breakout 2006. McGee started all 13 regular season games for the Aggies and quickly became one of the country's best all-around quarterbacks. Most importantly he took care of the ball throwing just two interceptions in 313 attempts and led the nation in interception percentage.

Best Player

Colt McCoy. Given the task at hand, no one performed better in 2006 the Big 12 than Colt McCoy. Take a look at some of his accomplishments: Became the first freshman QB in UT history to win 10 games Completed 217-of-318 passes (68.2%) for 2,570 yards and 29 TDs (seven INTs) His 29 TD passes set a UT single-season record and tied the NCAA's single-season freshman mark Set UT's single-game record with six TD passes against Baylor Threw TD passes in 11 of 13 games and two TD passes in 10 games Set UT's freshman single-season mark with 2,570 pass yards and 2,740 total yards More importantly, the two games he was banged up for, the Longhorns lost. That's enough to earn him this honor.

Big 12 Football Preview '07: 2006 Recap originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Tue, 07 Aug 2007 07:00:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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"The Highers Athletics Complex will feature three football practice fields, two with a natural surface and the other with artificial turf, preparing Baylor football athletes for all competitive environments. The 96,300-square-foot Simpson Athletics and Academic Center will bring to campus functions previously housed at Floyd Casey Stadium, such as the main athletics training room, equipment room, football team locker room and weight room, as well as administrative offices, the football office, meeting rooms and an academic center for all student-athletes."

Baylor Set to Break Ground on New Practice Facility originally appeared on NCAA Football FanHouse on Wed, 09 May 2007 06:35:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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