The tallest midget. The most intelligent Kardashian sister. The most interesting reality “star.” The richest man in Joliet. The least fattening funnel cake. These are all synonyms for the best team in the Big East. Yes, it’s a super conference in college basketball; but in college football…well, I’ve already thrown up enough this week.
And in 2011, the most sober frat boy award goes to…..the West Virginia Mountaineers. Hey someone need to snag that BcS bid.
2010 was: a solid season that may not be as fondly remembered as it should; given the Champs Sports Bowl loss. 9-4, 5-2 in conference. The defense was nothing short of awesome last year- 3rd in the nation in total and scoring defense, second in rushing, 11th in passing. Unfortunately, they only return 4 starters this year.
BMOCs: QB Geno Smith is the man, and will take full advantage of the four WR set (Tavon Austin and Brad Starks are the leaders there). the RB situation is unsettled, but will likely be between Daquan Hargrett and Shawne Alston, CB Keith Tandy is an All-American candidate, Bruce Irvin and Julian Miller are stars in the DL
2011 will be fruitful if: New offensive coordinator, and future head coach in 2012 Dana Holgorsen’s system gels well Smith getting the ball out to all the receivers. This year will be all about chemistry, and getting all the personalities to mix and mesh.
2011 will be awful if: The defense doesn’t adjust to the loss of seven starters, and the running game can’t respond to the loss of Noel Devine. Also, its pretty important that the coaching changes settle in quickly
Bottom Line: With a very special QB, and some good receivers, and a decent pass rush, the weak Big East schedule…should equal a conference title
WVU Rankings: #17 Athlon, #18 Lindy’s, #37 Phil Steele
Paul M. Banks is CEO of The Sports Bank.net, an official Google News site that generates millions of unique visitors. He’s also a regular contributor to Chicago Now, Walter Football.com, Yardbarker, and Fox Sports
He does regular weekly radio spots in Chicago and Cleveland and has appeared on live shows all across the world from Houston to New Zealand. You can follow him on Twitter
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