Houston
Last Year
The Cougars came roaring out the gate last year, starting 3-0 and beating quality BCS foes in Oklahoma State and Texas Tech and being talked of as a BCS buster, before getting run over by Donald Buckram and UTEP. They got back on track, with QB Case Keenum racking up ridiculous passing stats, before finishing 2-3 with losses to East rivals UCF and ECU and then getting blasted by Air Force in the bowl game. The passing game was magnificent, but their lack of interest in running the ball cost them down the stretch, with quality defensive opponents coming after Keenum. In the last two games (both losses) he threw 9 of his 15 interceptions. The defense struggled to stop anyone, particularly against the run. Houston finished the season 10-4 (6-2 CUSA) and made it to the conference title game, which they lost as much from 3 missed PATs (1 blocked) as Keenum's picks. The season ended in disappointment, but there were plenty of good things to build on too.
Offense
If there are any doubts about whether Houston's offense can build on their success of the last two seasons, dispel them now as they return eight starters and a couple of highly experienced backups. Keenum (70.3% comp, 5671 yds, 44 TDs) is obviously the key, and his quick reads and release make the offense a nightmare to defend. If he improves even more, there will be Heisman talk. Last season he was voted 2nd Team All American. If he goes down, junior Cotton Turner (75% comp, 373 yds, 3 TDs) has shown he can move the offense, but it remains to be seen if he could sustain his success over a number of games. The Cougars are in no hurry to find out. Despite the lack of running, Houston is in excellent shape at running back with two top notch candidates – Charles Sims (132-698-9) and Bryce Beall (139-670-7). They should see more of the ball this season in at attempt to add balance to the offense. The offensive line is the question mark, with only three starters returning. RG Chris Thompson, who was 1st Team CUSA, and RT Roy Watts, who started at LT last season, are joined by Jordan Shoemaker, who started at LG last season. The new starters will be sophomore Jacolby Ashworth, who was the starter at LT before being lost for the season after four games, and senior LG Jaryd Anderson, who also started four games last year. Watch out for ex-NT Isaiah Thompson who's moved to offense this spring too. Depth is questionable. Last year's three top wide receivers return, and all three topped 1000 yards. James Cleveland (104-1214-14) is the best of the bunch and was voted 3rd Team All American, but Tyron Carrier (91-1029-7), who also ran for 128 yards and a score, and Patrick Edwards (85-1021-6) aren't far behind. Joining them as a fourth starter this season is senior Kierrie Johnson (16-237-1), who has started six games in his career. There is talent but limited experience in reserve. If the Cougars need a Tight End, sophomore Tyler Chambers (1-7-0) started 3 games there last season. Sims (70-759-1) and Beall (32-311-3) are both excellent receivers out of the backfield. If the right line combination can be found, a 1st place finish for the offense is assured.
Defense
The defense returns six starters, one of whom is now on offense, and a new co-ordinator, ex-Dallas Cowboys DC Brian Stewart. He has some good players to work with although only one lineman returns, so a 3-4 will be implemented. The one returning starting is DE David Hunter (57 tkls, 4.5 tfls, 4 sacks, 4 PBUs), who's big and plays the run well so looks like a natural fit for a 30 End. Joining him on the other side will be JUCO Matangi Tonga, who is also good-sized and flashed pass rush potential in the spring. The NT will be sophomore Tyrone Campbell (12 tkls, .5 tfl, .5 sack, 1 PBU) who played in 13 games last season. They have some talent in reserve, but they lack game experience. The Linebackers should be the strength of the team with three former starters returning. ILB Marcus McGraw (156 tkls, 5 tfls, 4 sacks, 6 PBUs) leads the way, but fellow ILB Matt Nicholson (13 tkls), who was lost for the season through injury, is a hard-nosed competitor and will add toughness to the defense. Phillip Steward (89 tkls, 4 tfls, 2 PBUs) played in the middle last season due to injuries but will move outside, which should suit him better. The new OLB will be JUCO Sammy Brown. There's some depth in reserve, although this is a lightweight but fast group. The two graduating players in the secondary are big losses, but returning CB Jamal Robinson (58 tkls, 5 tfls, 8 PBUs, 5 INTs) and FS Nick Saenz (114 tkls, 1 tfl, 6 PBUs) can play. The new Corner is senior Loyce Means (11 tkls), who has starting experience and the SS will be either JUCO Jack Candy or Roisean Haynes (53 tkls, .5 tfl , 2 PBUs) who has started in the past and played in every game last season. Despite the losses, this defense should be better this year.
Special Teams
Houston used three Kickers last season, two of who return. Jordan Mannisto (24/26 PATs and 6/10 FGs) lost his job mid-season to Matt Hogan who was a reliable on FGs (12/12) but less so on PATs (38/43). The job is Hogan's to lose, but he has to sort out the PAT issue. Mannisto will take over the Punting job, but he hasn't punted at this level. Carrier is a dynamic KR (29.0 ypr, 4 TDs!), and a solid PR (10.4). The kick and punt return teams allowed a TD each, but they were pretty good otherwise. This unit should be good again this season.
Next Season
This year is Keenum's last chance to win a CUSA title, and his otherwise superb career might always have that "what did he win?" feel about it. While it's hardly his fault, there is a sense of urgency about the team. The offense should be able to score on anyone again, but the defense has to make a few stops to help out. An increased rushing attack might help out with clock control too. There's also the question of Keenum's Heisman chances, and he'll realistically have to go unbeaten to have any hope. The good news is, the schedule is manageable. The OOC games are FCS Texas State, a trip to UCLA, home to Mississippi State and then finishing the season at fellow offensive powerhouse Texas Tech. The in-conference schedule has a home game to UCF and a trip to Southern Miss from the East, but the game that could cost them their unbeaten season is at SMU. No matter what happens, the Cougars will be worth watching this season. They are more than capable of running the table, as long as the defense can hold up.
Rice
Last Year
Let's not kid anybody here. This team was pretty bad last year, 111th in total offense and 110th in scoring, and 117th in total defense and plum last in the FBS in scoring defense. They did finish with a 2-1 stint, and lost the game before by just three points, and this bodes well for the future. They were the youngest team in the country last year, and are again this season, but have 18 starters back. Their plummet from the 10-3 season the year before was mostly down to the offense. Only three starters returned. QB Chase Clement just couldn't be replaced. They lacked a big play threat at receiver. The defense wasn't much better in '08, the only difference was a +15 turnover margin as opposed to -9 last year. But as mentioned, this is a young team, and David Bailiff has proven he's a good coach, so the Owls could have a bright future.
Offense
Three different QBs started last season but only Nick Fanuzzi (60% comp, 1598 yds, 11 TDs, 8 INTs), who started 8 games, returns. He missed spring camp, and there's no guarantee he'll keep his job anyway. Miami transfer Taylor Cook and freshman Taylor McHargue are also in the running for the job and it won't be decided until fall camp. This should be a team strength though. The top unit in 2010should be the running backs. After finishing 104th in rushing last year, they're suddenly loaded in the backfield. Last year's two leading rushers, Tyler Smith (101-428-1) and Charles Ross (97-491-11), are both back although Ross has been banged up and fallen behind the competition. Smith will get the start in the first game. Backing him up will be Michigan transfer Sam McGuffie, who gained 486 yards and 3 TDs on 118 carries in '08 with the Wolverines. All three will see the ball a lot this season. Helping them along is an offensive line that returns all five starters. T Scott Mitchell and G Jake Hicks, who played RG, will man the left side, with Tyler Parrish at RT. Keshwan Carrington mans the middle. Sophomore Eric Ball takes over at RG. Davon Allen is the odd man out, but provides excellent depth if he doesn't win his job back, and there are other experienced reserves too. The lack of a go-to receiver will cause issues this season, with only Patrick Randolph (39-356-4) returning. He's more of a possession guy. As of spring, there will be three new starters with Randolph the primary reserve. Senior Pierre Beasley (15-113-1) mans the slot, with sophomore Derek Clark (2-28-0) and senior Corbin Smiter (1-9-0) outside him. There are some okay reserves, but this unit as a whole lacks any pizzazz. Sophomore TE Vance McDonald (12-118-0) only started one game last season has to potential to be a primary receiver. Junior Brent Hotard (1-3-0) backs him up. The backs will be used as receivers too, particularly McGuffie, who will be moved around.
Defense
The Owls have never been able to stop anyone, running or passing, except by turnover, and they hadn't enough last season. They do return nine starters who should be pretty seasoned all will stand in their favor this year. The line returns three including both Tackles. Scott Solomon (63 tkls, 4 tfls, 6.5 sacks, 2 PBUs) goes 100% every play and Alex Lowry (17 tkls, .5 tfl) should be better with a year under his belt. The returnee at End is Cheta Ozougwu (61 tkls, 6 tfls, 4.5 sacks, 2 PBUs) who got better as the season went on. He'll be joined by senior Kramer Lucio (7 tkls, 1.5 sacks) who hasn't played much, but is athletic. There's some experience in reserve too. Only one of their two starting linebackers (4-2-5 defense) returns, Justin Hill (43 tkls, 2 tfls, 1 sack, 2 PBUs), and he only started five games. He'll be joined by sophomore Trey Briggs (25 tkls, 1 tfl, 1 sack, 1 PBU) who started four. Depth isn't bad. In the secondary, FS Travis Bradshaw (121 tkls, 5 tfls, .5 sack, 4 PBUs) is the star. SS Chris Jones (41 tkls, 3.5 tfls, 3 PBUs) has started regularly. Chris Jammer (34 tkls, 1 tfl, 5 PBUs) is okay at one corner. Sophomore Phillip Gaines (31 tkls, 1 tfl, 3 PBUs) started six games at corner last season and will do so full-time in 2010. The "Kat" position, a hybrid of DB and LB, will be junior Xavier Webb (22 tkls, 1 tfl), who started two games in '09. There is solid depth in the secondary and throughout the defense due to injuries and inexperience causing a quick hook. This should benefit them over the year with rotation, but if they can't cause some turnovers – 12 fumbles and just 6 INTs – it'll be another long season.
Special Teams
Last year's Kicker Clark Fangmeier only made 8 of 15 FGs last season and has since graduated. Redshirt freshman Chris Boswell, who only missed 4 FGs in high school, replaces him. Punter Kyle Martens (43.6 gross, 38.2) returns and has caught the eye of NFL scouts. Shane Turner (23.8 ypr) is a solid if unspectacular KR, and Kevin Gaddis (9.7 ypr) will return punts again this season. Both should be better as sophomores. The coverage teams need some work (2 KR TDs).
Next Season
This team is certainly looking better than last season's unit, although there is a big question mark at QB. There are enough starters on both sides of the ball for them to be more competitive. Their OOC schedule is usually pretty tough, and this season is no different. They open up with a visit from Texas, then a trip to North Texas, before home games to Northwestern and Baylor. From the East, they have a tough trip to UCF, but get East Carolina and UAB at home, as with SMU and Houston within the division. If the defense can make a few stops and they get steady play from the QB position to complement a potentially strong running attack, they could push for 5-6 wins. 3-4 wins would be more likely. This team could be one to watch in 2011 though.
Southern Methodist
Last Year
After a tough first season (1-11) in June Jones' tenure as SMU coach after his success at Hawaii, the Mustangs are finally showing signs of life after 20 years of ineptitude since the "Death Penalty" was imposed. They went 8-5 (6-2 CUSA) and lost three games by a field goal (2 in OT). Things looked bleak when starting QB Bo Levi Mitchell was knocked out against Houston leaving the team at 3-4 and with freshman Kyle Padron at the controls. No problem. Padron ran the offense to perfection, finishing 5-1 (a FG loss to Marshall) and shredding Nevada 45-10 in the Hawaii Bowl (ironically), a game in which Padron threw for 460 yards an 2 TDs. There were other bright spots on offense too - Shawnbrey McNeal ran for 1188 yards and 12 TDs and Emmanuel Sanders caught 98 passes for 1339 yards and 7 TDs. The defense rose to the occasion when need be, holding Case Keenum to a mortal 233 yards and shutting down Nevada's number 1 running game to 137 yards. This is still a young team and Jones recruits well, so SMU are one to watch for the future.
Offense
Mitchell was struggling (12 TDs, 10 INTs) before his injury, and Padron (67.2% comp, 1922 yds, 10 TDs, 4 INTs) gave the offense a shot in the arm. It will be interesting how he performs over a full season, considering opponents now have footage of him playing. His backup will be New Mexico State transfer JJ McDermott who impressed in the spring. McNeal registered for the draft (but wasn't drafted), and leaves a gaping hole at RB. The 2nd leading rusher was Zach Line, who gained just 189 yards on 49 carries. He did rush for 7 TDs though, and will most likely start this season. Watch for freshman Darryl Fields to make an impact though. This could be a weak spot as depth at the position is thin. The offensive line returns four starters and could contend for league honors. LT Kelvin Beachum was 2nd Team USA and LG Josh LeRibeus and RT JT Brooks were Honorable Mentions. C Bryce Tennison has started 19 games in two years. The new RG will be junior Kelly Turner who started 4 games here last season. Depth is a problem and a couple of injuries could create some problems. Sanders was drafted by Pittsburgh and will be sorely missed, although there are some good players ready to step it up, three of whom are returning starters. Aldrick Robinson will be the go-to guy after catching 47 passes for 800 yards and 5 TDs (96 long). Terrance Wilkerson (42-527-4) and Cole Beasley (40-493-3) have both started the last two seasons. A pair of sophomores, Darius Johnson (11-104-1) and Cole Loftin (3-23-0), will battle it out for the last spot. McNeal caught 31 passes out of the backfield last year, so expect the backs to continue producing in this regard.
Defense
The defense could struggle up the middle with the graduation of their NT, MLB and SS. They also lose a CB. The man charged with stuffing the middle in their 3-4 will be one of sophomores Jimmy Chase and Aaron Davis or freshman Mike O'Guin (the biggest at 320 lbs). A rotation of all three will be most likely. The two Ends return, and Marquis Frazier (45 tkls, 2 tfls, 4 sacks, 2 PBUs, 1 INT) and Taylor Thompson (40 tkls, .5 tfls, 5.5 sacks, 4 PBUs) are solid. There isn't much experience among the reserves. The linebackers should be pretty solid with some good returning talent, and some freshmen who played regularly. Pete Fleps (83 tkls, 7.5 tfls) returns at the "Buck" position and Youri Yenga (54 tkls, 3 tfls, 2 sacks, 2 PBUs) at SLB. The new MLB will be sophomore Taylor Reed (57 tkls, 3.5 tfls, 1 sack, 3 PBUs, 1 INT), who started 2 games and played well in the rotation. On the weakside will be Ja'Gared Davis (51 tkls, 2 sacks, 3 PBUs) who started 5 games and did well too. There isn't much depth here, either. Chris Banjo (86 tkls, 2 tfls, 4 PBUs, 1 INT) returns at FS after a fine season, but he'll be relied upon to bring leadership to an inexperienced group. Corner Sterling Moore (35 tkls, 1.5 tfls, 1 sack, 11 PBUs, 1 INT) was solid last season. They'll be joined by sophomore SS Ryan Smith (2 tkls), who hardly played last season, and freshman CB Keivon Gamble. Jones signed a number of JUCOs to provide competition and depth. The defense wasn't great last season, and may a take another step back in 2010.
Special Teams
Matt Szymanski (11/16 FGs, 41.9 gross, 35.2 net) was both Kicker and Punter last season but could improve, particularly on FGs. The primary returners are gone, so new ones need to be found. Chris Butler (20.4) was okay on kicks last year, sophomore Corner JR McConico will probably return punts. The coverage units returned 3 kicks for TDs (2 KR, 1 PR) and need improvement, but a special mention must go to sophomore DL Margus Hunt who blocked 7 kicks last season (3 PATs, 4 FGs).The unit as a whole isn't particularly good.
Next Season
Despite the potential defensive problems, SMU's offense is good enough to keep them in games (it is CUSA after all). Padron looks like the real deal and there are good receivers and a solid line. A running back needs to be found, but they've got talent there. The OOC schedule is pretty tough with visits to Texas Tech Navy sandwiching home games against Washington State and Texas Christian. They escape playing UCF and Southern Miss from the East, instead getting UAB at home, a tough home game against Marshall and a trip to East Carolina. They also get main divisional rivals Tulsa and Houston in Dallas. If the defense can come up with a few stops, they could very well get a title shot. A repeat of last season's record is more likely though. Watch this team in 2011 though.
Texas-El Paso
Last Year
The rule of thumb during the Mike Price era has been if the Miners can play some defense, they'll make it to a bowl game. Their offensive production has been excellent the last seven years, but their defense hasn't always done their fair share. Last season QB Trevor Vittatoe had an off-year, but oft-injured RB Donald Buckram finally played a full season and ran for nearly 1600 yards, keeping the offense potent. The defense, though, couldn't stop anyone, ranking 106th against the run (5.0 ypc) and 110th in total defense. It's been four seasons since UTEP went bowling, and last year's 4-8 (3-5 CUSA) record isn't acceptable for a coach who led Washington State to two Rose Bowls.
Offense
Vittatoe (54.8% comp, 3308 yds, 17 TDs, 13 INTs) had a poor season (by his standards), missing open receivers and appearing to be a shadow of his former self. In his final game of the season, he threw for 517 yards and showed he was still capable of playing at a high level, but then was suspended for spring camp and had surgery on his shoulder, meaning he won't throw a pass until fall camp. It's highly unlikely he'll lose his job as he's too experienced to have on the bench and his primary reserve, senior James Thomas II, has thrown 25 passes. However, the offense is now based around Buckram (259-1594-18), a rushing and receiving threat. As long as he stays healthy, he'll get the football. He'll be backed up senior Jason Williams (40-126-5) and junior Vernon Frazier (10-25-2) but neither is in his class as a runner. The offensive line should be solid again with three returning starters. They allowed 25 sacks last year, but 10 of those came against Kansas and Texas. C Tanner Cullumber will have returnees RG Rod Huntley and RT Alex Solot helping him open holes and protect the passer. The left side will be manned by senior Tackle Will Osolinsky, who has previous starting experience, and senior guard Anthony McNac. This is a big, experienced line and injuries and transfers give experienced depth. Kris Adams (42-580) will be the go-to guy at receiver, but his production dipped last year, only scoring 2 TDs after 14 in '08. This is part a result of Vittatoe's malaise, but he still needs to play to his potential in '10. The new receivers will be senior Evan Davis (19-186-1) and junior Donovan Kemp (12-284-4), both of who should be productive as starters. TE Jonny Moore (13-135-1) is a good receiver and could increase his stats if the QB position improves. Buckram (30-453-3) was a key part of the passing attack and may see his numbers increase in 2010. This offense has 10 senior starters and has no excuse for failing to produce in the coming season.
Defense
The defense was terrible last season, with only 0-12 New Mexico State scoring less than 23 points against the Miners (12). A new co-ordinator (Andre Patterson) has been brought in and his first move was to discard the 3-3-5 defense and replace it with a 4-3. The only returning starters on the line is Robert Soleyjacks (19 tkls, 3 tfls, 1 sack, 1 PBU), who needs to be more productive, but he'll be joined on the other side by experience junior Bernard Obi (28 tkls, 3 tfls, 2 sacks). The tackles will most likely comprised of a group of freshman and sophomores, with Germard Reed at one spot and either Isaac Tauaefa (3tkls) or JUCO Jamie Fehoko at the other. The depth is equally inexperienced and this unit could struggle against the run again. All three starting Linebackers return, with Royzell Smith (68 tkls, 1.5 tfl, 1 PBU, 2 INTs) and Anthony Morrow (30 tkls, 1 tfl, 1.5 sacks) on the outside and Jeremy Springer (66 tkls, 3.5 tfls, 3 PBUs) in the middle. Springer is being pushed hard in camp by junior Jamie Irving (13 tkls) and may yet lose his job. There is some experience on the depth chart, and Springer would add to it he fails to retain his position. SS Braxton Amy (52 tkls, .5 tfls, 3 PBUs, 5 INTs) has done a good job on the middle of the secondary, but this season he'll be working with three new starters. Senior Brandon Miller (29 tkls, 1 tfl) will be the Free Safety after 2 starts last season. The corners will be a pair of juniors, JUCO Travaun Nixon, who was available for spring camp, and Antwon Blake (20 tkls, 1 sack, 1 PBU), who also started 2 games. Patterson could have his hands full trying to create a cohesive unit.
Special Teams
A new Kicker and Punter are needed this season, and JUCO Dakota Warren is being brought in to do both. He has a strong leg and is talented, but the true test won't be until the season starts. Marlon McClure (23.7) and Nixon will probably return kicks, with McClure also returning punts, and the return game should be solid. Both coverage units were poor the Miners allowed 2 TDs on kick returns. Put a big question mark on this unit coming into the season.
Next Season
This season has a sense of bowl or bust with 14 senior starters, particularly the 10 on offense. If Buckram can stay healthy and Vittatoe comes close to his form of 2007-8, the offense could rival Houston. The defenses tend to play second fiddle in the CUSA West, and the Miners play along with that, but they must come up with some turnovers to take some pressure off the defense. The OOC schedule is relatively easy with visits from FCS Arkansas-Pine Bluff and New Mexico State and trips to New Mexico and Arkansas. 3 wins is a must here (odds are poor they'll beat Arkansas, they haven't beaten a BCS team since 1974). In conference they get a home visit from Memphis and trips to UAB and Marshall from the East, but they have to travel to Houston in their own division. They have enough on offense to make a title game run and with 2011 more than likely a rebuilding year, a failure to at least make a bowl game could have Price looking over his shoulder.
Tulane
Last Year
The Green Wave had a tough time of it last season, managing just a 3-9 (1-7 CUSA) record and coming 105th in total offense and 102nd in total defense. There were some bright spots – Andre Anderson ran for 1016 yards and 8 TDs and Jeremy Williams caught 84 passes for 1113 yards and 7 TDs and earned NFL contracts. Redshirt freshman QB Ryan Griffin stepped in for the last six games and showed enough to have coach Bob Toledo and the other coaching staff optimistic for the future. The defense struggled against the run and the pass while mustering just 16 sacks and 10 turnovers.
Offense
Griffin (63.5% comp, 1382 yds, 9 TDs, 6 INTs) is a pure passer who should take advantage of the switch to a spread offense from a West Coast system. Kevin Moore (15-8-27-0-1) won the job as primary reserve, but last year's initial starter Joe Kemp (who will also play WR) was okay and is a decent fallback option. Running back could be an issue with Anderson gone and junior Albert Williams, who ran for just 26 yards last season but appears to be a star-in-waiting, is taking the starting role. Backing him up will be junior JT McDonald (-2 yds) or sophomore Stephen Barnett (9-16-0). The new offense is better suited to their skills. If they need a Fullback, junior Kasey Stelly (1-0-0) is a solid blocker. The new backs also have the benefit of a line with four returning starters. Tackle Pete Hendrickson, who's being watched by NFL scouts, and Guard Harris Howard man the left with Andrew Nierman at Center and Zach Morgan at Right Guard. The new RT will be sophomore Eric Jones. There is some experience down the depth chart too. With Williams gone, a new top receiver needs to be found. Retuning starter Casey Robottom (50-584-2) would be the obvious choice, but sophomores Ryan Grant (9-39-1) and DJ Banks (7-69-0) are talented. The depth is talented but raw. Seniors Cody Sparks (10-81-0) and Tyler Helm (6-48-0) are locked in a training camp battle for the starting role. Both are solid, and whoever loses out will provide quality depth.
Defense
The defense may only return three nominal starters, but there is experience among reserves and some quality transfers too. The line brings four new starters – Iowa transfer Dezman Moses and sophomore Austen Jacks (25 tkls, 1.5 tfls, 2 sacks), who backed up at MLB last season, will provide good athleticism at the End positions. The Tackles will be senior Justin Adams (17 tkls, 2.5 sacks), who started two games last season and is immensely strong, and junior Oscar Ponce de Leon (16 tkls, .5 tfl, .5 sacks, 1 PBU). Injuries have led to a lot of experience among the reserves. The Linebackers bring Duke transfer Trent Mackey to MLB, with Darryl Farley (31 tkls, 1 PBU) at WLB. Depth is thin though. The secondary returns three starters, including both safeties. SS Alex Wacha (77 tkls, 1.5 tfls, 4 PBUs) and FS Shakiel Smith (71 tkls, 4.5 tfls, 1 sack, 3 PBUs) are good, but need to make more big plays. Cornerback Phillip Davis (41 tkls, .5 tfl, 5 PBUs, 2 INTs) is a good one, and will have a sophomore, Alex Lauricella (23 tkls, 1 PBU), who started in every game last year on the opposite side. The secondary should improve, but will benefit greatly if a pass rush can be unearthed.
Special Teams
Tulane had one guy kicking and punting last season, but he's graduated, so redshirt freshman Ryan Rome will replace him at both spots. He's yet to kick at this level, but is highly regarded by the staff. Williams' graduation also robs them of their best KR, so the hope is Banks (19.1 ypr) and Barnett (18.5) can match his production. Robottom (3-35-0) will return punts again this season. Kick coverage was mediocre but the punt coverage was abysmal. This unit is a question mark so far and could be important to a struggling team in 2010.
Next Season
The team looks to have improved (could they get worse?), although they have question marks at many positions. Their OOC schedule is tough apart from the opener against FCS squad Southeast Louisiana – they have visits from Mississippi and an improved Army team, and a visit to Rutgers. They get the three tougher teams from the East, Southern Miss and UCF at home and Marshall away, and also travel to Houston, Tulsa and UTEP. Unless all the pieces fall into place, this could be a long season for the Green Wave and potentially Toledo's last.
Tulsa
Last Year
After two consecutive seasons leading the FBS in offense and going 21-7, Tulsa slipped to a 5-7 (3-5 CUSA) record and missed out on a bowl game. Probably the highlight of their season was going toe-toe with mighty Boise State before falling 28-21, as their five wins were against a FCS team and four opponents who totalled 8 wins. A six game losing streak after starting 4-1 was ugly too. It wasn't all bad, they lost three games by a total of twelve points, so weren't too far from a potential bowl game, but even 7 or 8 wins might be considered slipping. The offense was ranked 35th nation and would have been a lot higher if a raw offensive line hadn't allowed 46 sacks. Miraculously, Texas transfer QB GJ Kinne survived the season unscathed and played well, also leading the team in rushing. The defense was solid enough, by CUSA-West standards, and a return to form is expected sooner rather than later.
Offense
KInne (60.9% comp, 2732 yds, 22 TDs, 10 INTs) did well as a first year starter and should play even better this season. His mobility (151-318-5) is an asset in this offense and Tulsa could be back at the top of the charts soon. Sophomore Shavodrick Beaver will be his primary reserve, but he only threw 3 passes last season and is known as more of a runner. Running back could be an issue with senior Jamad Williams favored to start after gaining just 389 yds and 1 TD on 101 carries. JUCO Derrick Hall should back him up (if not beat him out), but watch out 245 lb sophomore Alex Singleton (5-12-0) to earn some carries after a solid spring game. The offensive line was a big problem last season, but the hope is it becomes a strength this season with four starters back. LT Tyler Holmes, who only started six games due to injury, is one of the best in CUSA. Returning LG Clint Anderson also missed some games due to injury. At Center, Trent Dupy is back after a tough freshman campaign, and RT Brandon Thomas also returns. The new RG will be sophomore Brian DeShane, who started 2 games at LG last season and played in 7 others. Last season's rash of injuries leaves reserve depth with starting experience, which will bode well for the team should the injury bug strike again. Two returning starters, Kinne's favorite receiver Damaris Johnson (78-1131-3) and Trae Johnson (22-311-8) will be joined this year Oklahoma transfer Jameel Owens, who brings an instant big play threat. AJ Whitmore (26-238-1) will see plenty of game time as the primary reserve due to his experience. Depth is very good and this should be a good unit if the line holds up. H-Back Charles Clay is both a fine receiver (39-530-5) and runner (63-236-7) and should become even more involved in the offense this season. Tight Ends aren't often used, but Clay Sears (4-58-0) is a decent receiver and improving blocker. Williams only caught 11 passes out of the backfield last season, but look for that to change as the Kinne becomes more comfortable.
Defense
The Hurricane's defense had eight starters back last season and it showed with a solid campaign, although they struggled with deep balls. This year only five return and there is concern about their experience, but not their talent. DE Odrick Ray (21 tkls, 3.5 tfls, 1 sack, 1 PBU) returns on the line, but he needs to improve his production. The other End is Cory Dorris (54 tkls, 2.5 tfls, 3 sacks), who was solid but needs to make more plays behind the line. The new nose will be JUCO Darrell Zellars. There is little experience in reserve. Only WLB Tanner Antle (78 tkls, 4 tfls, 2.5 sacks, 1 PBU) returns at LB. SLB will be a battle between junior Curnelius Arnick (53 tkls, 2 tfls, 1 sack, 1 PBU), who started 2 games, and redshirt freshman Cody Wilson. The middle will be manned by freshman Shawn Jackson, who has shown signs of being an impact player. The reserves have had little playing time. In the secondary, "Spur" DeAundre Brown (102 tkls, 2 tfls, 1 sack, 1 INT) was 1st Team CUSA last season. FS Dexter McCoil (85 tkls, 1.5 tfls, 6 PBUs, 1 INT) had a solid freshman season and should be much better this season. The "Bandit" (SS) will be junior John Flanders (24 tkls, 1 tfl), who started five games in 2009. The Corners will be Charles Davis (16 tkls, 1 tfl), an experienced player who missed all but three games last season due to injury. On the other side will be fellow senior Laquentin Black (12 tkls, 1 tfl, 1 PBU), who started one game and played in every other. This should be a good unit, especially if they front seven can manufacture a pass rush.
Special Teams
Tulsa has as good a pair as specialists as any team outside of Georgia. Kicker Kevin Fitzpatrick made 42/44 PATs and 13/14 FGs (51 long, missed a 50 yarder) and will be back. The Punter is Michael Such who averaged 44.5 gross and 37.1 net. Johnson excels at returning both kicks (24.6 ypr) and punts (14.2, 1 TD). The coverage units allowed a kick return TD, but were otherwise excellent. This is an excellent unit and could make a difference in close games this season.
Next Season
Coach Todd Graham appreciates the importance of defense to his team, and they could be good if talent can overcome lack of experience – and a good secondary always helps. If the line can cut down on sacks (46 last season) and give a better push for the running game, the offense should be explosive again as there are some quality pieces in place (watch out for Owens). The OOC schedule is a mixed bag, with Bowling Green and FCS Central Arkansas at home and trips to Oklahoma State and Notre Dame. They get East Carolina, Memphis and Southern Miss from the East, which is manageable this year. The bad news is trips to both SMU and Houston, which will be a factor in their title run. This team should contend this season and make a bowl game, but watch out for them next year.
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