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Big East preseason power rankings
Published by Bob Schultz on August 14, 2009
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So here goes (literally) nothing …
1. Rutgers: Three words: schedule, schedule, schedule. OK, so that’s not the only reason I like the Scarlet Knights, as they bring back a stellar offensive line and a sturdy defense. Plus, they seem due. But mostly, it’s that schedule.
2. Pittsburgh: Overall, the Panthers have the most talent in the league. I love the defensive line, and the defense as a whole. I’m worried about the quarterback and the running backs. In any other league, that would mean Pitt wouldn’t be the preseason media favorite or No. 2 in my rankings. This isn’t any other league.
3. West Virginia: The Mountaineers still have some questions, especially on the offensive line. But I love their skill players and think Jarrett Brown is ready to bust out as a star. If they didn’t have four road games in conference play, they might be higher than this.
T-4. Cincinnati: I know Brian Kelly is going to put together a good team. I’m less concerned than most people about the massive replacements on defense. But I think the schedule — the Bearcats’ first two league games are at Rutgers and South Florida, and they end at Pitt — will keep Cincinnati from repeating as champs.
T-4. South Florida: Your guess as to where the Bulls should rank is as good as mine. They’ve got some serious athletes, but they’re also frightfully young at a lot of spots. Given that they’re 10-11 in Big East play the past three years, I will remain guarded in my optimism.
6. Connecticut: I agree with Randy Edsall that the Huskies don’t get enough respect. And I hate ranking them this low. But somebody has to be sixth, and with all the talent lost to the NFL draft, UConn seems like the logical choice.
7. Syracuse: I predict the Orange will shock one of the top contenders this year. Otherwise, they’ll still be irrelevant in the league race.
8. Louisville: After the spring, I thought 0-7 in the Big East was a real possibility. I now think the Cardinals will avoid that fate. But not by much.
Big East preseason power rankings – Big East – ESPN.
© 2009, Bob Schultz. All rights reserved.
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