As our final week of 2008 season previews winds down we still need to breakdown linebackers, running backs and quarterbacks but I thought we’d take a break and throw out some predictions for the conference. Here is how I see it shaking out. Kansas City is cold in December! Advantage Missouri?
North Predictions
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The Tigers have 14 returning starters and a softer schedule than 2007. One thing to note is that Missouri gave up an average of 19.5 points per game on `06 and 23.3 in `07 |
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The Jayhawks return 15 starters but will see their schedule strength increase with Oklahoma, Texas and Texas Tech as opponents in `08. |
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The strength of the Huskers is in their offensive and defensive lines. Look for an improved team in `08 behind the leadership of a respectable coach. |
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Darrell Scott is the future of Colorado football. This will be Hawkins best team yet but they face a brutal schedule |
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Heavily relying on JUCO transfers can be a crap shoot. |
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The Cyclones will still be rebuilding in `08 |
South Predictions
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2008 and 2009 could mirror the run that Oklahoma made in 2003 and 2004. |
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I’ve been flirting with this since January now but I can’t make a better argument for another team to place 2nd in the south. |
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It isn’t the offense that concerns be for the Longhorns it’s the defense. Last year Texas gave up 25.3 points per game, which is a five year high, and they only return 4 defensive starters in `08. |
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Defense should be the theme for O-State as well. They’ll only improve as much as their defense does. |
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Only 10 returning starters combined with new offensive and defensive schemes could make for a long season |
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With 15 returning starters the Bears could be feisty this year but are destined once again for the cellar. |