CLEMSON

HEAD COACH: TOMMY BOWDEN

Clemson’s football program has been to a bowl game each of the first four years of the Tommy Bowden era. He is the first Clemson coach to achieve that distinction and it marks the first time since the 1985-91 era that Clemson has gone to a bowl game four consecutive seasons. With the return of 11 starters, including seven on offense, plus the return one of the top place kickers in the nation in Aaron Hunt, and perhaps the top return tandem in the nation in Justin Miller and Derrick Hamilton, returning to postseason play is certainly an attainable goal for the 2003 Tigers. The elevation to active duty of a talented 2002 first-year freshman class that included 17 players who red-shirted, should also enhance Clemson’s outlook for the coming season. That class should give the Tigers the depth it lacked at times during the 2002 season. The Tigers are coming off a 7-6 campaign that included a victory over arch-rival South Carolina to finish the regular season. It was Clemson’s third win in the last four years over the Gamecocks under Bowden. The season began with a last minute 31-28 loss to eventual SEC champion and third ranked Georgia. Clemson fans wonder what might have been had the Tigers pulled out the season opener that late summer night in Athens. The Tigers were improved on defense in 2002, holding the opposition to 40 less yards of total offense per game. The point prevention unit allowed the Bulldogs to gain just 203 yards of total offense, their season low in a 13-1 campaign. The Tigers intercepted 21 passes altogether in 2002, the program’s highest figure since 1995, and it ranked 15th in the nation in that area. The defensive leaders include sophomore All-America candidate Justin Miller, who led the ACC in both kickoff returns and interceptions, and John Leake, who averaged 13 tackles per game last year, fourth best in the nation. Offensively, Clemson gained 4726 yards in 2002, the sixth highest figure in Clemson history. That total included a school record 3157 yards passing. Two different Clemson quarterbacks (Willie Simmons and Charlie Whitehurst) passed for at least 1500 yards, a first in school history. Three different Tiger receivers caught 50 passes, and two of them return (Kevin Youngblood and Hamilton). The top rusher (Yusef Kelly) and four of the five starting offensive linemen are also back.

Offense (7 Returning Starters, 17 returning lettermen) Clemson returns eight starters on offense, plus two other players who were position starters for the final five games of the season. Balance has been a hallmark of successful Clemson teams of the past. Clemson has never lost a game in its history when gaining at least 200 yards passing and 200 yards rushing in the same game. Improving the ground attack, especially in short-yardage to attain that balance will be a barometer Bowden will follow this year. The review of Clemson’s depth on offense starts at quarterback. Three quarterbacks have thrown for four touchdowns passes in a game in school history and two of them are on the 2003 Tiger team. The duo will compete for the starting quarterback position this spring and into next fall, giving Clemson the deepest quarterback position in the ACC. Charlie Whitehurst is number-one on the depth chart entering the spring, but he will be challenged by graduate student Willie Simmons. Both threw for over 1500 yards a year ago, a first in Clemson history. They were the reasons Clemson completed 268 passes as a team last year, also a school record. Whitehurst was the starter over the last five games of the season and he had some record setting performances. He led the Tigers to victories over Duke and North Carolina on the road and South Carolina at home in the final month of the season, leading Clemson to a bowl bid. The son of former Green Bay Packer quarterback David Whitehurst, Charlie completed 34-52 passes for 420 yards and four touchdowns at Duke in his first college start. He established Clemson single game records for completions and passing yards in that first start, a 34-31 Clemson victory. His second week he threw for just 274 yards, but again threw for four scores. For the season, Whitehurst set Clemson freshman records for completions (123), attempts (214), passing yards (1554), and touchdown passes (10). His most impressive and important performance came against South Carolina in the regular season finale when he completed 27-38 passes for 287 yards. He did not throw an interception and scored the tying touchdown on a nifty 11-yard run in the final period. Simmons started the first eight games of the season. He completed 142-244 passes for 1559 yards and six scores overall, his completion percentage (.582) was eighth best in school history and his completion total was fourth best. Simmons, who threw for four scores at North Carolina as a freshman backup to Woodrow Dantzler in 2000, might have had his best game at Florida State when he gained nearly 350 yards of total offense. He was especially efficient in leading Clemson to wins over bowl teams Georgia Tech and Wake Forest. Entering his final season, Simmons is ranked in the top 12 in Clemson history in passing yards, completions, interception avoidance, completion percentage and touchdown passes.

Leading the receiver group are veterans Kevin Youngblood and Derrick Hamilton. Both caught at least 50 passes in 2002 and this will be the first time in history Clemson has a pair of 50-catch receivers. They combined for 111 catches for 1193 yards and four scores. Both are already ranked in the top 20 in Clemson history in total receptions and reception yards. Youngblood led the way with 59 catches for 591 yards and two scores. He began the season with a 6-66 game at Georgia on ESPN and finished the year with a career best 134 receiving yards on seven catches in an ESPN game against Texas Tech. The native of Jacksonville, FL caught at least one pass in every game last year. Hamilton had 52 receptions for 602 yards and two scores. He now has 105 receptions in two seasons, the first player in Clemson history to catch at least 100 balls by the end of his sophomore year. He is more than 60 percent of the way to Rod Gardner’s record of 166. The junior is an all-purpose player for the Tigers. He was one of just two players nationally to record at least 200 yards rushing, receiving, in punt returns and kickoff returns in 2002. He led the ACC in all-purpose running with a Clemson record 1883 yards, and ranked 20th in the nation in that category with 144.8 yards per game. He had four games of at least 200 all-purpose running yards, including the victory over Georgia Tech when he had a 77-yard run and a 79-yard punt return. Another big play performer is junior Airese Currie, a starter in six of the 13 games a year ago. Ranked fifth in Clemson history in yards per reception with a 17.7 figure, Currie caught an 83-yard game breaker from Whitehurst at North Carolina last year, the longest pass play in the history of Keenan Stadium. He had 16 catches for 282 yards and three scores a year ago. Clemson will miss 2002 seniors J.J. McKelvey (52-785) and team leader Jackie Robinson (18-229), but two newcomers should fill in nicely. Red-shirt freshman Kelvin Grant and Tennessee transfer Michael Collins, are a pair of young and athletic tall receivers. Also contributing to the offense will be Ronnie Thomas and Curtis Baham. Both saw limited action last year, but have played well in the spring and look to replace the graduated Jackie Robinson. The tight end position will be led by sophomore Bobby Williamson, who had five catches for 47 yards and a touchdown last year. He is an outstanding blocker who will have an even bigger role in Clemson’s success on offense from a running game standpoint. Rod Whipple has moved from defense to tight end this spring. Bowden has a diverse roster of running backs. He is looking for someone who can be a game breaker, something he has never had in his four previous years at Clemson. He has some young players who could fill that role, and still has tough veteran players who will give the Tigers that needed change of pace.

The top returning rusher from last year is junior Yusef Kelly. The bullish all-around back gained 520 yards in 125 attempts and scored eight touchdowns, fifth best in the ACC. He also showed his ability as a receiver with 18 catches, fourth on the Clemson team. He started just four of the 13 games last year, but ranked second on the team in runs of 10 yards or more. He had 48 yards rushing on the clinching drive in the win over South Carolina last year. Chad Jasmin is another veteran back who is capable of contributing in the backfield in a number of areas. The senior from Louisiana has a 4.4 career rushing average and also has three career touchdown receptions, including two in the win at North Carolina last year. He is perhaps the best blocker among the Clemson running backs. Clemson returns just four starters from last year’s defense, but there are nine other players returning who played at least 100 snaps from scrimmage in 2002. The Tigers have also moved a couple of offensive players over to defense in an effort to improve the team’s overall speed. Similar to the case on offense, the return of many talented red-shirt freshmen should help Clemson’s depth and hopefully overall defensive performance in 2003.

Leading the Clemson defense will be three-year starter Khaleed Vaughn, leading tackler John Leake, and freshman All-American Justin Miller. All three are certainly capable of having a breakout season. Leake is one of the top returning tacklers in the nation. The native of Plano, TX had 169 tackles last year and his 13.0 per game figure ranked fourth best in the nation. A team leader, Leake now has 312 career tackles to rank 13th in Clemson history. His 169 stops last year ranked fifth best for a single season. In his third year as a starter, Leake combines quickness and toughness to be one of the top linebackers in the nation. Clemson must replace Rodney Thomas, a senior in 2002 who had 167 tackles a year ago. But, a pair of junior college transfers who will be seniors look to step into leading roles. Kelvin Morris is an athletic WHIP linebacker who showed what he can do at that position in the Tangerine Bowl when he had a career high 13 tackles and a sack. It was the first time he played the position all year. Brandon Jamison is a candidate for a starting position at linebacker. He had 48 tackles in just under 200 plays and his one tackle for every 4.6 plays led the team. Leroy Hill will battle for the starting middle linebacker position with Jamison. Hill was the top special teams tackler on the Clemson team by far last year with 21 stops. He played just 47 snaps from scrimmage, but that figure will increase greatly this year. Also in the middle linebacker picture are Roosevelt Nelson, a special teams player much of last year, and Charles Bennett, who moves over from defensive end. Red-shirt freshman Anthony Waters, a highly regarded player during his first-year freshman season, and letterman Nigel Vaughn, will also be in the mix at a linebacker position.

The most talented player on the Clemson team may be sophomore cornerback Justin Miller. The native of Kentucky tied a Clemson record with eight interceptions last year. He was a first-team freshman All-American according to the Football Writers Association and the Sporting News. Miller led the ACC and ranked fifth in the nation in interceptions, quite an accomplishment considering he started just seven games on defense last year. He was the only first-year freshman to appear in a game last year. Miller will hold down one of the cornerback positions. Last year he teamed with senior Brian Mance to give Clemson one of the top cornerback combos in the nation. Mance’s replacement will be a battle between Tye Hill, Toure Francis and Buddy Williams this spring. Hill was Clemson’s third leading rusher last year when he averaged a team best 5.4 yards per carry. He had a 100-yard game at North Carolina. But, Bowden wishes to make use of his speed on defense and he has played well in the secondary so far in the spring. Hill is also a stalwart on the Clemson men’s track team. Francis was a starting cornerback in the season opener against Georgia, but he suffered a torn ACL just 12 plays into the season. He should be back to 100 percent in the fall for the opener against the Bulldogs. Williams is a highly regarded red-shirt freshman who will get a strong opportunity in the spring and fall. Jamaal Fudge and Travis Pugh look to hold down the safety positions. They must replace 2002 starters Eric Meekins and Altroy Bodrick. Fudge saw action as a cornerback last year and had 27 tackles overall as a reserve. Pugh had 34 stops as Meekins’s backup a year ago and has the range to be an outstanding free safety. Reserves Tavaghn Monts and Gerald McCloud, a converted receiver, are also in the mix in the secondary.

Clemson’s deepest area on defense may be the defensive line. Clemson has eight returning lettermen for the four positions. The group is led by Khaleed Vaughn, who has started each of the last 26 Clemson games, including three bowl games. He had 60 tackles last year and had six tackles for loss, including four sacks. He was second on the team in quarterback pressures with 18. J.J. Howard, an athletic defensive end in his fifth year in the program, should finally get his chance at a starting assignment. He had 34 tackles last year, including four tackles for loss. A player who runs a 4.5 in the 40, Howard can chase down an enemy quarterback and make the big play. Maurice Fountain, who played in all 13 games as a reserve last year, is another athletic defensive end. Fountain had two interceptions, including one in the late stages of the Louisiana Tech game that iced the victory in Clemson’s column. Vontrell Jamison, who played on the offensive line last year, and red-shirts Gaines Adams and Brandon Cannon, are also in the defensive end race this year. The defensive tackle position is led by Donnell Washington and DeJuan Polk. Washington started all 13 games last year and had 55 tackles. At 6-6 and 320 pounds, he has the potential to be Clemson’s chief run-stopper on the inside in 2003. Polk had 25 tackles as a reserve last year. He is a graduate student in his final year of eligibility. Eric Coleman will also challenge for a starting position. Coleman had 31 tackles last year most among reserve defensive linemen. Todd McClinton had 15 tackles in his 141 plays of action last year in an injury plagued season. If healthy, McClinton could make a run for a starting position. Trey Tate and Donnell Clark are a pair of young players who could contribute this year.

DUKE

HEAD COACH: CARL FRANKS

The Blue Devils, under the direction of fifth-year head coach Carl Franks, return 23 starters and 53 lettermen from last year's 2-10 club. Headlining the returnees are All-ACC selections Ryan Fowler (LB; Honorable Mention), Alex Wade (FB; 2nd Team) and Matt Zielinski (DT, Honorable Mention). Fowler led the 2002 Blue Devils in tackles for the third straight season with 145 total stops while Wade finished third in the league in rushing (979 yards) and matched a school single-season record with a conference-high six 100-yard rushing games. Zielinski spearheaded a Duke defensive unit that paced the ACC in rushing defense, totaling 49 tackles, 18.5 tackles for loss and 10 quarterback hurries. All 11 starters are back for the Blue Devil offense including quarterback Adam Smith (2,031 yards & 12 TDs), wide receiver Khary Sharpe (30 rec., 458 yards & 6 TDs) and tailback Chris Douglas (640 yards). Joining Fowler and Zielinski on the defensive side are safety Terrell Smith (106 tackles), cornerback Kenneth Stanford (52 tackles & 14 total passes defended), linebacker Brendan Dewan (59 tackles in 8 games) and defensive end Micah Harris (61 tackles & 11.5 tackles for loss). The 2003 season will mark Duke’s 91st campaign of intercollegiate football, and the Blue Devils hold an all-time record of 436-400-31 ... Football was introduced at Duke by Dr. John Crowell, who coached then Trinity College to victories in its first two games ever — wins of 16-0 and 25-17 over North Carolina in 1888 ... After the 1894 season, football was banned at Duke by the Board of Trustees, but returned in high form in 1920 when Floyd Egan guided the team to a 4-0-1 ledger. The most significant player position changes involve rising sophomore Malcolm Ruff, who will switch from tailback to linebacker for spring drills, and redshirt freshman Paul Campitelli, who moves from tight end to defensive tackle ... In addition, Jim Scharrer and Phillip Alexander, both of whom have seen action at both linebacker and defensive end, will begin spring practice at defensive end. The Blue Devil offense brings back all 11 starters along with every key reserve from the 2002 campaign.

Duke’s offensive line, which will feature a starting unit comprised of four seniors and one junior, will look to remain healthy as the group of five starters — center Luke Bayer, guards Daryl Lewis and Rusty Wilson, and tackles Christian Mitchell and Drew Strojny — started all 12 games a season ago. Duke QB Corps Led By Smith Duke’s quarterback unit consists of three juniors — Chris Dapolito, Adam Smith and Chris Wispelwey — and one freshman, Mike Schneider ... Smith started all 12 games in 2002, and became just the third Duke sophomore to throw for over 2,000 yards ... By completing 174- of-308 passes for 2,031 yards, Smith joined Leo Hart (2,238 yards in 1968) and Spence Fischer (2,563 yards in 1993) as the only second-year players to accomplish the feat. Douglas & Wade Form Solid Duo Duke’s running back tandem of Chris Douglas and Alex Wade — a pair of rising seniors — enter their final season in Durham with a combined 3,278 rushing yards ... Douglas, who battled through injuries and managed to rush for 640 yards in 2002, ranks sixth on Duke’s career chart with 1,984 career yards on the ground ... Wade posted the school’s fifth highest single-season rushing total last fall with 979 yards, and enters 2003 with a career total of 1,294 yards ... Wade also matched a Duke single-season record with six 100-yard rushing games including a career- best 165-yard effort against Wake Forest ... Douglas and Wade finished the year ranking fifth and third in the ACC, respectively ... In addition to their running prowess, both Douglas and Wade have proven to be valuable receiving threats out of the backfield ... Douglas caught 21 passes in 2002 (69 career receptions) while Wade hauled in 20 passes last fall (44). 100-Yard Rushing Games Backfield mates Chris Douglas (4) and Alex Wade (6) have combined for 10 career 100-yard rushing games ... Wade’s six during the 2002 season led the ACC and matched Duke’s single-season record also held by Steve Jones (1972) and Randy Cuthbert (1989).

Jones also holds Duke’s career standard with 13. Landrum Pulls Double Duty Wide receiver Senterrio Landrum is pulling double duty for the second year in a row by participating in spring football practice while playing for the Blue Devil baseball team ... As of March 17, Landrum had started all 21 games in the outfield for Duke and was hitting .348 (24-of- 69) with one home run, four doubles, 11 RBI and five stolen bases ... Last fall on the gridiron, Landrum caught 29 passes for 294 yards and three touch-downs. Kittleson Posts Top Track Times Wide receiver Ben Kittleson joined Duke’s track and field team during the winter, and posted the team’s top times in a pair of events ... His time of 7.02 was Duke’s fastest performance in the 60- meter dash and his time of 22.45 was tops in the 200-meters. Sharpe ACC’s Top Returnee A rising junior, Khary Sharpe is joined by N.C. State’s Jerricho Cotchery as the top two re-turning wide receivers in the ACC in terms of touchdown receptions ... Both Sharpe and Cotchery finished third among the league’s receivers with six scoring grabs a year ago, trailing only Anquan Boldin (12) and Talman Gardner (8) of Florida State ... Boldin decided to forego his final season of eligibility while Gardner completed his eligibility. Douglas Closes In On All-Purpose & Kickoff Return Leaders Tailback Chris Douglas enters the 2003 season with 4,310 career all-purpose yards, needing just 72 to become Duke’s all-time leader in that category ... Mike Grayson holds the top spot with 4,381 yards amassed in his career from 1980-83 Duke’s Tight Ends

In 2002, Duke lost All-ACC tight end Mike Hart to graduation and then suffered a blow during preseason camp when projected starter Nick Brzezinski was lost to a knee injury ... The slack was picked up by sophomore Calen Powell and redshirt freshman Andy Roland, who combined for 42 pass receptions for 603 yards and three touchdowns. Defensive Secondary Returns All four starters in Duke’s defensive backfield will return for the 2003 ... The group is led by senior safety Terrell Smith and junior cornerback Kenneth Stanford ... Smith finished second on the team in tackles with 106 last season, and led the ACC with four fumble recoveries while Stanford, who earned Duke’s Most Outstanding Defensive Back honor, was among the league leaders in total passes defended with 14 on 11 PBUs and three interceptions. Also back is junior safety Alex Green (64 tackles in 2002) and sophomore cornerback Brian Greene (44 tackles in 2002). Duke received a big lift from its defense in 2002 as the Blue Devils led the ACC in rushing defense just one year after finishing ninth in the league ... The Duke defense returns nine-of-11 starters from last season including Honorable Mention All-ACC selections Ryan Fowler (LB) and Matt Zielinski (DT) ... In 2002, Fowler led Duke in tackles (145) while becoming the first player in school history to lead the team in tackles in his first three seasons in the program ... He will begin the 2003 campaign ranked seventh on Duke’s career tackle chart with 359 ... Zielinski secured the middle of the Duke defensive line from his tackle position, and finished the year with 49 tackles ... In addition, he was among the ACC leaders in tackles for loss (18.5 - 3rd) and forced fumbles (3 - t4th).

FLORIDA STATE

HEAD COACH: BOBBY BOWDEN

Being Florida State, there are athletes and players with raw talent that most programs can only dream about. The question is whether or not this crew can use all this talent to form a devastating offense. The quarterback situation is fine, but Chris Rix could be running for his life behind an inexperienced line with no depth. The running backs could be outstanding if Greg Jones is healthy again. Quarterbacks Projected Starter Chris Rix, Jr. - Has a star quarterback ever had a more bizarre career? The unsung player among a group of young quarterbacks, Rix won the starting job in his freshman season only to get blasted for his mistakes. After Florida State lost to the better teams on the schedule last year, Adrian McPherson came in and looked like a star against the weaker squads. Just when Rix had a shot to take over the job again, he overslept. He's a speedy player with a nice arm and great all-around skills. What he doesn't seem to have is the command over, and full trust of, the team. Florida State quarterbacks never star without a few years under their belt, so this needs to be the time when Rix goes from talented prospect to superstar. If this spring was any indication, he'll make that move. Top Backups - Fabian Walker, Jr. - A big, strong quarterback with nice, but raw, skills, Walker will be in the mix for the starting job if he can get over shoulder problems. Over the course of spring ball, he looked better and better with the more work he got. Thrown to the wolves in the Sugar Bowl, he did an admirable job against a frothing Bulldog team. Wyatt Sexton, RFr. - Sexton won't get in the mix for the starting gig, but he'll see plenty of chances at the number two job if Walker's shoulder isn't right. A sensational passer, he might make an impact with some more seasoning.

Running Backs - Greg Jones, Sr. - Jones was on his way to pushing for All-America honors before tearing up his knee against Wake Forest. The big back was unstoppable at time averaging 5.8 yards per carry and rushing for 938 yards. A true workhorse, he can kill defenses that are worrying about the Florida State passing game. He missed spring ball rehabbing his knee. Fullback B.J. Dean, Soph. - The 256-pound junior won't see the ball, but he'll once again be a key in making the running game go. There might not be a more unsung player in the ACC. Top Backups - Leon Washington, Soph. - One of the best kick returnees in the ACC, Washington can also carry the ball rushing for 273 yards and a touchdown last season when Jones and Nick Maddox went down. He's a quick back with surprising power. Lorenzo Booker, RFr. - The No. 1 recruit in the county in 2002, the lightning fast booker could be a Warrick Dunn-like difference maker. Bowden has vowed to find a spot for Booker somewhere on the field as he makes plays every time he touches the ball. Torrance Washington, Soph. - Washington has enough experience to push for playing time. He'll add power to the rushing mix if Jones is having problems with his knee.

Receivers - P.K. Sam, Jr. - The split end job isn't his for sure, but he's expected to be a star. A hamstring problem limited him last year as he only caught 13 passes for 162 yards. A big receiver with speed, this should be his breakout year. Dominic Robinson, Jr. - The former cornerback has worked his tail off to be ready to star at flanker. He only caught nine passes last season, but he has the size and the moves to become a top player. He has looked like a superstar at times this spring and could surprise as one of the ACC's best new receivers. Tight end Paul Irons, Jr. - The former fullback worked his way into the tight end rotation last season catching one pass, but used more as a blocker. He'll face some still competition for the starting job. Top Backups - Craphonso Thorpe, Jr. - The 6-2 flanker is a premier deep threat leading the team with a 22.2 yard per catch average last season. He caught 17 passes for 377 yards and four scores. Chauncey Stovall, Jr. - One of the candidates at split end, Stovall should make a huge impact coming out of a redshirt season. He's big, athletic, and very, very strong for a receiver. Willie Reid, Soph. - He'll add the flash to power that Jones brings if used as a running back, but he'll most likely stay at receiver playing at split end. Joey Kaliekini, Sr. - The backup split end is a nice special teams player who can get open and make the tough catch. He won't make any highlight plays, but he'll do all the dirty work, like blocking, that goes unnoticed. Matt Hensaw, Soph. - He'll get every shot at winning the starting tight end job. He's not all that big at only 209 pounds, but the former quarterback can get open.

Offensive Line - Tackle Alex Barron, Jr. - He was out this spring with a knee scope, but he should be fine returning to his spot at the strong tackle. A big blocker and the next FSU star on the line, he should be in for a big season. - Guard Matt Meinrod, Soph. - He'll be in the mix at tight guard after serving as an understudy to Todd Williams last year. An intense player with a little bit of experience, he should be a fine fill in. Center David Castillo, Jr. - A good, young player, Castillo became a factor towards the end of last year filling in when Antoine Mirambeu went down. At 300 pounds, he's a good sized player in the middle after being named the Offensive MVP this spring - Guard Bobby Meeks, Jr. - A spot starter when Montrae Holland had injury problems, the 295 pound Meeks is expected to be a top player if he continues to improve. Tackle Ray Willis, Jr. - The lone returning starter to the line, the 6-6, 295-pound Willis will have to be the anchor at tight tackle. He's the best run blocker on the team and is progressing into a good pass protector. Top Backups - OT Ron Lunford, Soph. - With little depth, Lunford has to become a factor at tackle. The 345-pound sophomore is still learning on the job, but should be the team's top backup as the season goes on. C Andrew Henry-Kennon, Soph. - Castillo has a hold on the starting job, but the 308-pound sophomore might turn out to be the better player. OG Eric Broe, Soph. - At 327 pounds, Broe is a big player with a little bit of experience. He played in every game last year, but it was mostly on special teams. He'll push for time behind Meeks.

Eleven starters (ten if you don't count Darnell Dockett) return and 26 lettermen will be in the mix for an experienced defense that got better and better as last season went on. There aren't any monsters on the defensive line other than Dockett, but the linebacking corps is more than good enough to pick up the slack. The secondary is experienced, but it has to be far better than it was last year. With at least eight good players to choose from, Mickey Andrews will find the right mix. Defensive Line Defensive end Kevin Emanuel, Sr. - One of the better tackling ends in the ACC, Emanuel made 40 stops and was tremendous at getting into the backfield making four sacks and 15 tackles for loss. He's not the most physical player in the world, but he's great at making one-on-one plays. Defensive tackle Darnell Dockett, Sr. - This is assuming that he'll end up back on the team this summer after getting tagged for petty theft charges. If he's not back on the team, Brodrick Bunkley will take over. One of the best linemen in the country, Dockett is a force in the middle making 57 tackles, 17 tackles for loss and seven tackles for loss last season even though he was never healthy. Defensive tackle Travis Johnson, Jr. - Lining up on the nose, Johnson provides a little more bulk to the line. He had problems with a shoulder that hampered him this spring, but he should be fine. By the end of last year, Johnson was one of the team's most effective linemen finishing with 50 tackles and 2.5 sacks. His biggest problems are off the field as he was charged on a felony count for an alleged sexual assault. - Defensive end Eric Moore, Jr. - Moore will be in a battle for the starting job on the right side, but he should be a factor as one of FSU's best pass rushing prospects. The 245-pound junior made 24 tackles last year, but ten were behind the line of scrimmage including four sacks. Top Backups - DT Broderick Bunkley, Soph. - A little small at 260 pounds, Bunkley saw time as a true freshman making 13 tackles. Extremely quick, Bunkley should be a terror at getting into the backfield from the middle of the line. He'll get the nod if Dockett isn't reinstated. DT Jeff Womble, Sr. - The 300-pound senior started over the first half of last season on the nose before getting knocked out with an ankle injury. Over the first five games of last year, he made 37 tackles and 11 tackles for loss. DE Kamerion Wimbley, Soph. - As a true freshman, Wimbley came along nicely as a reserve making 17 tackles. He has room to get a little bigger, but he's already looking like he'll be a top end in the rotation. DE Charles Howard, Jr. - If Howard doesn't take over the end job outright, he'll at least split time with Moore. He injured his knee last season, but appears to be as good as new. With 41 career tackles and two sacks, he has a little big of experience.

Linebackers - Michael Boulware, Sr.- Boulware is a star on the strong side. He finished last season with 127 tackles as a top run stuffer, but he's also great against the pass breaking up seven passes and picking off two. He might be used more as a pass rusher this season. Allen Augustin, Sr. - Augustin took over the job in the middle of last season and became a top playmaker finishing with 83 tackles and two sacks. With two great linebackers on the outside, he has more freedom to make plays knowing that Boulware and Pope will clean up any mistakes. Kendyll Pope, Sr. - The leading returning tackler with 296 for his career, Pope is one of the best linebackers in America and should be a near-lock for All-ACC honors. From the weak side, he has unbelievable speed and has used it to be more of a force at getting into the backfield. He used to be more of a safety playing linebacker, but now he has more strength and size at 220 pounds. Top Backups Ray Piquion, Jr. - The 215-pound junior made 11 tackles last season and mostly played on special teams. He'll back up Boulware on the strong side. A.J. Nicholson, Soph. - At 230 pounds, Nicholson is one of the bigger linebackers in the mix. He made 23 tackles last season and should become a factor this season as Pope's backup. He'll find a spot in the starting lineup soon if his performance this spring was any indication. He was tearing up the FSU offense. Ernie Sims, Fr. - Possibly the top high school prospect in the country, Sims was a huge signing for the Noles. An inside linebacker, he could make an instant impact if Augustin struggles at all. He's big and very, very fast clocking in a 10.7 in the 100 meters at a high school track star.

Secondary - Cornerback Stanford Samuels, Sr. - Sitting this spring after shoulder surgery, Samuels will return this fall to his spot on the left side. He came on at the end of last year to lead the team in broken up passes with seven. The team's best cover corner, he's also a great open-field tackler. - Rover Jerome Carter, Jr. - A big player and a big hitter, Carter became a top player by the end of last season finishing with 94 tackles and three pass breakups. He plays like another linebacker, but he's good in pass coverage. After a little bit of a shoulder problem, he'll be 100% by the start of the season. - Free safety Kyler Hall, Jr. - Combining with B.J. Ward, Hall will start at free safety again after seeing time in 26 straight games. He struggled at times last year, but he should be even better with all of his experience. He had a tremendous spring named the team's "most dependable defensive back." - Cornerback Rufus Brown, Sr. - Brown returns to the right side where he picked off two passes and broke up eight. He's a good all-around corner, but he's not quite the player Samuels is and had some major problems handling the Seminole receivers this spring. Top Backups FS B.J. Ward, Jr. - Ward will split time again with Hall. A bigger player than Hall, Ward could take over the job now that he has a better handle on the position. He moved over from the offense to make 51 tackles. After blocking four kicks last season, he needs to be accounted for when he's on the field. CB Bryant McFadden, Jr. - A nice sized playmaker, McFadden will play behind Brown on the right side. He made 21 tackles and picked off three passes last year. CB Leroy Smith, Jr. - With Samuels out this spring, Smith saw plenty of action with the first team. He was a valuable backup last season making 22 tackles and intercepting a pass. Rover Claudius Osei, Jr. - He was out this spring with an ankle problem, but he should be fine by the start of the season and could push for the starting job. He has starting experience making 41 tackles in 2002. Special Teams - Placekicker Xavier Beitia, Jr. - Beitia was on his way to an All-America season, but a missed 43 yard kick to Miami sent his season south as he missed six of his final twelve kicks over the rest of the year. He has a big leg and is accurate, but he must break out of the funk that hurt hi over the second half of last year. Punter Chris Hall, Soph. - Hall will get the first chance to take over for Chance Gwaltney. He attempted two kicks last season averaging 35 yards per boot. Gwaltney didn't have the biggest leg, so replacing his deep kicks won't be too much of a problem, but it'll be hard to replace Gwaltney's outstanding accuracy and ability to pin teams deep.

GEORGIA TECH

HEAD COACH: CHAN GAILEY

The quarterback situation is the key needing consistent play from A.J. Suggs or Damarius Bilbo for the offense to run effectively. The receiving corps isn't good enough to allow for average quarterback play. There's a stable of experienced running backs ready to run behind one of the ACC's best offensive lines. Quarterbacks Projected Starter - Damarius Bilbo, Soph. - The 6-3, 225-pound Bilbo is neck and neck with Suggs for the starting job. D-Bo's a better quarterback with better skills than Suggs, but he doesn't have the same experience or decision making ability. With his arm and talent, all he needs is time. He threw three touchdown passes last year in a reserve role and got better and better the more he played this spring. Top Backups A.J. Suggs, Sr. - Suggs started every game last year, but he lacked consistency and at times, accuracy. He threw 15 interceptions and 12 touchdowns passes playing well in games against Virginia and NC State, but looking miserable against BYU and Fresno State. He has the size and the arm, but he needs to be more accurate and has to show he can lead the team week in and week out. Brian Camp, Sr. - Camp played in two games last year, but didn't do much of anything not throwing a pass. He'll battle Al Pena for the No. 3 job.

Running Backs Ajenavi Eziemefe, Soph. - Eziemefe could grow into a star. He's 6-2 and 225 pounds with decent moves and quickness. He took over when Hollings went down rushing for 136 yards against North Carolina. Unfortunately, a sprained ankle kept him from doing much over the rest of the year. It's his show now after all the suspensions. Fullback Jimmy Dixon, Jr. - More of a tailback than a fullback, Dixon has to become a bit more of a tenacious blocker. He can catch the ball out of the backfield. Top Backups P.J. Daniels, Soph. - Daniels has gone from a walk-on to becoming a dependable backup. With all of the problems in the corps last year, Daniels became a factor rushing for 255 yards and two scores. Brian Johnson, Soph. - Johnson will get the first look as a backup fullback with Jonathan Jackson recovering from a broken ankle. At 250 pounds, he provides necessary bulk to the position. Tony Hollings, Sr. - Hollings tore up the college football world in the first few games of last year, and then he tore up his knee. After starting the year with 633 yards and 11 touchdowns in the first four games, Hollings went down early enough last year that he would've had a chance to be back to 100% by some point this year, but he was declared academically ineligible. He's 211 pounds with tremendous speed, but the question is whether or not he'll have the same quickness he showed before the injury. Now he'll have another year to get healthy. Michael Sampson, Soph. - An up and coming player, Sampson got the starting nod against Fresno State in the Silicon Valley Bowl rushing for 35 yards. He's a lanky back with decent speed, but he has to hit the weight room, and the library, hard. He looked great at times this spring and would've been the lead dog for the starting running back spot, but he's academically ineligible.

Receivers - Levon Thomas, Jr. - The 6-0, 205-pound Thomas is a physical receiver with decent speed. He doesn't have wonderful hands, but he's progressing and will have to shine in place of Kerry Watkins and Will Glover. Jonathan Smith, Sr. - The team's leading returning receiver, Smith caught 36 passes for 430 yards and three touchdowns last year. He's an experienced player with great quickness and an wonderful ability to find the openings. He's also a solid punt returner. Tight end John Paul Foschi, Sr. - He'll replace Will Heller in the starting spot. At 270 pounds, he's more of a pure blocker than a receiver, but he does have 17 catches in his career. Top Backups - Xavier McGuire, RFr. - The 6-3 McGuire is the team's tallest receiver and will push Thomas for time at one of the receiver spots. He's young and very talented. - Nate Curry, Jr. - Curry was never quite right after recovering from a broken kneecap. After a solid freshman season, he only caught one pass last year. If he's 100%, he'll be a great help to the depth. Lekeldrick Bridges, Soph. - Bridges can fly. He's 6-0 and could play a huge factor this season with his overall ability. With his speed, he's the team's best deep threat averaging 18 yards per catch.

Offensive Line - Tackle Nat Dorsey, Jr. - He's one of the best blockers in America. Dorsey will start again at left tackle where he has blocked out the sun with his 6-6, 330-pound frame for the last two years. The two-time All-ACC pick is getting better and better with more experience, but the coaching staff wants him to get down to about 315. He missed most of spring ball after shoulder surgery. - Guard Leon Robinson, Jr. - With 18 games of starting experience, Robinson should be in for a big season if he can overcome hand surgery that cost him spring ball. At 320-pounds, he's a sensational run blocker. He's coming off an off-season hand surgery. Center Hugh Reilly, Sr. - One of the best centers in the country, Reilly moved over from guard last year and became a star. The former defensive lineman is still improving and should be a top Rimington Award candidate. Guard Brad Honeycutt, Soph. - It'll be up to the 6-4, 295-pound Honeycutt to take over for Raymond Roberts-Blake on the right side. He mostly played as a backup tackle last year and needs time to learn the guard spot. Tackle Kyle Wallace, Jr. - He's 6-6, 285 pounds and a perfect complement to Dorsey on the right side. He's not as good as Dorsey, but he's growing into a top talent on his own and could be up for some all-conference honors. Top Backups OT Jeremy Phillips, Jr. - The junior spent almost two years trying to overcome a knee injury and became a dependable backup last year. He'll back up Wallace on the right side. OG Andy Tidwell-Neal, Jr. - With Robinson hurting, Tidwell-Neal saw most of the snaps in spring ball at left guard. He's an experienced and capable backup. He had problems with an ankle injury late this spring. C Clay Hartley, Sr. - With Reilly in the middle, Hartley won't see too much action, but he could fill in at guard if necessary.

The defense should be outstanding upfront with problems in the secondary. The pass rush should be tremendous with a slew of big, fast ends led by the return of Greg Gathers. The linebackers won't get much press, but they're good. Defensive Line - Defensive end Greg Gathers, Sr. - The superior sack-master returns after missing almost all of last year with a kidney problem. Getting his strength back has been a little bit of a problem, but he should be back to his All-America level by this fall. For his career, the 270-pound senior has 31 sacks and 57 tackles for loss. Defensive tackle Alfred Malone, Jr. - The team's biggest defensive lineman, the 300 pound Malone returns for his third season as the starter in the middle. With more work, he could develop into an All-ACC caliber talent. Defensive tackle Travis Parker, Soph. - Parker is small for this line as a 265-pound tackle, but he's strong and extremely quick. Defensive end Darius Williams, Jr. - With little developed depth at tight end, the hope was for the 6-6, 265-pound Williams to become a factor. It probably won't happen as he was moved over to the defensive line this spring. He'll start now that Tony Hargrove is ineligible. Top Backups DE Eric Henderson, Soph. - A Freshman All-American last year, Henderson took over when Gathers was out making 58 tackles and 15 tackles for loss. He'll only get better with more time and could become a devastating situational pass rusher. DT Omar Billy, Soph. - The 270-pound sophomore saw a little bit of action last year but didn't do much. He'll be the primary backup behind Parker. DE Terron Pullen, RFr. - The 270-pound redshirt freshman is yet another big end in the rotation. He'll back up Williams. DE Tony Hargrove, Jr. - A great athlete for a 266-pound player, Hargrove made 49 tackles last year and helped to pick up the slack after Gathers went down. He'll hopefully get back next year after being declared academically ineligible.

Linebackers - Tabugbo Anyansi, Jr. - One of the team's fastest linebackers, Anyansi will take over the starting job on the outside now that Kingi McNair is ineligible. Daryl Smith, Sr. - The leading tackler last year with 99, the 235-pound Smith will be back and ready to roll this fall after undergoing shoulder surgery. He's not just a great tackler, but he's also sensational in pass coverage and at getting into the backfield. Keyaron Fox, Sr. - Fox is more of a safety playing linebacker, but he became a star last year making 92 tackles even though he was hampered by a sprained ankle. With his quickness, he's great at handling receivers out of the backfield. Top Backups - Ather Brown, Sr. - Brown gives the corps experience and versatility able to play on the outside or in the middle. He made 23 tackles last year. He mostly played in the middle this spring. Kingi McNair, RFr.- It would've been his job to replace Recardo Wimbush after redshirting last year, but he's academically ineligible. He started his Tech career practicing at safety, but he'll be used on the outside as a speedy linebacker ... next year. He looked fantastic this spring. Gerris Wilkerson, Soph. - He's a nice sized linebacker who tore it up this spring. After getting a ton of playing time, the coaching staff appears to have faith in him.

Secondary - Cornerback Reuben Houston, Soph. - An unbelievable athlete, Houston mostly played as a nickel back last year making 44 tackles and an interception. He finished fourth in the ACC indoor meet in the triple jump and will get the first look at one of the corners. Strong safety Dawan Landry, Soph. - The former quarterback will get the first shot at strong safety after making eight tackles last year. He brings nice size to the position and is still learning on the fly. Free safety James Butler, Jr. - It'll be up to Butler to replace Jeremy Muyres. He isn't starting from scratch after seeing a little bit of time last year making 19 tackles. At 6-3 and 210 pounds, he's the team's biggest defensive back. Cornerback Jonathan Cox, Sr. - Cox will need to shine this year as the only returning starter in the defensive backfield. He was better last year at open field tackling than he was at defending the pass. He's a solid overall corner that should be in for a strong season. Top Backups CB Dennis Davis, Jr. - An all-conference sprinter, Davis is the team's fastest player and brings nice size to the corner. As spring ball went on, he made the transition from track star/football player to football player/track man. CB Venice Gilliam, Soph. - Mostly a special teams player, Gilliam will back up Cox. He's another quick Tech corner. FS Nathan Burton, Jr. - He'll get the first shot at free safety behind Butler. He saw a little bit of time last year making five tackles. Special Teams - Placekicker Dan Burnett, Sr. - Burnett missed his two field goal attempts last year, but he hit all eight of his extra point attempts. He'll be in for a big fight to replace Luke Manget from redshirt freshman David Jordan. Burnett looked fine this spring nailing some bombs. Punter Hal Higgins, Sr. - After spending his career as the team's holder, Higgins will get the first shot at the punting job. He got a sixth year of eligibility after being diagnoses with Hodgkin's disease a few years ago. If he can't get it done, Tech will have to hope an incoming freshman will take over. Andy Thomson and Travis Bell will be in the hunt before the season starts.

MARYLAND

HEAD COACH: RALPH FRIEDGEN

Ralph Friedgen, the most successful second-year coach in ACC history with a 21-5 record over two seasons as the Terps’ head coach, embarks on Year No. 3 in charge of the Terrapin football program in 2003. To date, Friedgen has overseen an astonishing turn of events since taking control of the Terps’ program following the 2000 season. In his rookie season following 32 seasons as a successful assistant, Friedgen captured consensus national Coach of the Year honors after leading his alma mater to an ACC title, a BCS bowl berth (FedEx Orange), a 10-2 overall record, and a final coaches’ poll ranking of No. 10. This past season, the Terps exceeded expectations once again, winning 10 of their final 11 games to finish with a school record-tying 11-win season (11-3) and a berth in the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, where they overpowered Tennessee, 30-3. A year ago at this time, shortly after the Terps completed their amazing 10-2, ACC-championship season of 2001 under first-year head coach Ralph Friedgen, critics were ready to label Maryland’s football program the latest “one-hit wonder.” No longer. Maryland followed its turnaround season of 2001 with only the second 11-win campaign in school history in 2002. 17 Starters Return Maryland’s early preseason Top 25 recognition can be attributed to the fact the Terps return a total of 17 starters – nine defense, seven offense, one special teams – from its 11-3 season of 2001. The 17 players have combined for 331 starts (average: 19.5) over the last three seasons.

A breakdown: QUARTERBACK Outlook: Senior Scott McBrien, a 14-game starter who finished 12th nationally in passing efficiency last season, headlines a group signal-callers which returns virtually in-tact from a year ago. McBrien, a left-handed transfer from West Virginia, rallied after a slow start to help lead the Terps to victories in 10 of their last 11 games. On the year, he completed 57 percent of his passes for 2,497 yards and 15 touchdowns. In the Terps’ 11 wins, he completed 60 percent of his throws and totaled 14 TDs vs. four interceptions. McBrien proved to be more than just an accurate passer, however. He also was adept running the ball, totaling seven rushing touchdowns and 284 net yards on 88 carries. McBrien figures to become an even more important cog 2003 with another year of experience running Friedgen’s offense under his belt. Last year’s backup, Chris Kelley , has moved to the defensive secondary, meaning promising redshirt freshmen Joel Statham and Sam Hollenbach will vie for the backup duties behind McBrien.

TAILBACK Outlook: Surprising Chris Downs (1,154 yards as a senior) has completed his eligibility, but the Terps are well-stocked at the position nonetheless, beginning with 2001 ACC Player of the Year Bruce Perry . The 5-9, 196-pounder missed the first 2/3 of last season with a torn groin, but started to show his old form – he rushed for 1,242 yards as a sophomore in 2001 — when he returned to action late in the year. Perry has rushed for 1,778 yards and caught 47 passes in his career and is an obvious candidate for postseason all-star honors, when healthy. Josh Allen , who is entering his sophomore season, was one of a handful of true freshmen to see action for the Terps last year. A player to watch, Allen finished his impressive rookie season as the team’s No. 2 rusher, totaling 405 yards and eight touch-downs, including a 116-yard, two-TD effort in a pivotal win over West Virginia. Sophomore Mario Merrills also returns after seeing action in 2002. A pair of players who sat out last season, redshirt freshman J.P. Humber and transfer Sam Maldonado , also will compete for time.

FULLBACK Outlook: Senior Bernie Fiddler is the lone returning fullback who has carried the ball for the Terps, and he has seen most of his action on special teams. The Terps must replace the departed Chad Killian (eligibility expired) and James Lynch (declared for NFL draft), both of whom combined to start 14 games in 2002. Fiddler is a solid isolation blocker who also is a threat catching the ball out of the backfield. The other returning lettermen are sophomore Jason Crawford , who is being moved from tailback, and sophomore Maurice Smith , a converted linebacker who has seen virtually all of his action on special teams.

WIDE RECEIVER Outlook: Six of the Terps’ top seven wideouts from 2002 return, the lone loss being Scooter Monroe, who led the team in receptions (37) and receiving yards (614) as a senior. The six returnees combined for 82 receptions, 1,513 yards (18.5 average) and seven touchdowns last season. Seniors Jafar Williams (28 receptions, 562 yards, 2 TDs) and Latrez Harrison (20-369-2) are big targets with good speed who ranked 2-3 on the team in receptions last season while combining for 13 starts. Junior Steve Suter, a slot receiver, might be the most heralded of the bunch following his breakout season of last year, when he scored seven touchdowns (four on punt returns, two on receptions, and one on a reverse) on his way to second team All-America honors as a return specialist. Other returnees who saw significant playing time in ’02 include junior Rich Parson and sophomores Dan Melendez and Jo Jo Walker .

TIGHT END Outlook: The Terps enter spring drills with the tight end position easily one of the deepest spots on the team. It is a unit led by three-year starter Jeff Dugan , who is considered by his coaches to be one of the best blocking tight ends in the country. Dugan, who is backed by sophomore Derek Miller , is the most senior member of the Terps’ offensive unit, with a team-best 34 starts and 36 games played to his credit. In three seasons, the 6-4, 261-pound Dugan has caught 41 passes, but routinely draws more notice for his blocking, which has been pivotal in helping spring 1,000-yard rushers each of the past two seasons. Miller, an imposing target at 6-8, 257 pounds, saw action in relief of Dugan in 2002, and will be looking to return to form after breaking his right leg in the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl.

OFFENSIVE LINE Outlook: Three of five starters return to an offensive front that played a key role in Maryland’s balanced and productive offensive attack in 2002. The key questions entering spring camp are finding replacements for All-American center Todd Wike and two-time All-ACC right tackle Matt Crawford, both of whom completed their collegiate eligibility last season after combining for 88 career starts. The Terps return starting guards Lamar Bryant (a second team All-ACC choice) and C.J. Brooks (honorable mention All-ACC) along with starting left tackle Eric Dumas, all of whom started every game in 2002. Sophomore Stephon Heyer is expected to challenge for a starting spot after an impressive true freshman campaign as a backup at left tackle. Moving from tight end to bolster the tackle position is junior Ryan Flynn . At center, junior Kyle Schmitt will begin spring camp in the spot manned most of last season by Wike. In all, nine of 11 lettermen from the 2002 team will be in spring camp.

DEFENSIVE LINE Outlook: Two starters and seven lettermen return to the defensive front, including honors candidates Randy Starks and C.J. Feldheim . Starks emerged last season as one of the top young tackles in the game, registering 93 tackles, 12.5 TFLs, 6.5 QB sacks and 17 quarterback hurries. Feldheim, a nose tackle, was enjoying his finest season as a junior last year before tearing the ACL in his right knee in the season’s eighth game. He won’t be available for any contact this spring. The biggest loss on the defensive front is end Durrand Roundtree, a 14-game starter in 2002 who finished second on the team in QB hurries (15). Among the seven re- turning lettermen who will vie for playing time in the spring include senior end Scott Smith (12 career TFLs), senior tackle Landon Jones , senior Tosin Abari , sophomore Justin Duffie , who played very well when pressed into a starting role in the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, and junior Kevin Eli. All told, the Terps’ seven returning lettermen combined for 10 sacks and 28 TFLs in 2002. Outlook: Even though the Terps graduated Butkus Award winner E.J. Henderson, the two-time ACC Defensive Player of the Year, linebacker still figures to be a strength of the Maryland defense. Fellow inside backer Leon Joe , who finished No. 2 on the team in tackles (103) and third in QB hurries (11), returns to headline this unit. He is joined by fellow starters Leroy Ambush and Jamahl Cochran, as well as six other lettermen, virtually all of whom saw significant playing time last season. The Terps return a trio of sophomores who saw time in backup roles, including promising Shawne Merriman, William Kershaw and D’Qwell Jackson.

SECONDARY Outlook: The Terps figure to field one of the country’s most talented and experienced secondary units in 2003, a four-man unit which has combined for 81 career starts. All four starters return from last year, including 2002 honors recipients Madieu Williams at free safety and Domonique Foxworth at cornerback. The other returning starters are cornerback Curome Cox , who has made 33 career starts, and strong safety Dennard Wilson , who has made 18 career starts. In total, the quartet combined for 13 of the team’s 18 interceptions a year ago. Williams, a transfer from Towson University where he played the 1999 and 2000 seasons, finished fourth on the squad in tackles (82) on his way to earning third team All-America honors from The Sporting News. Foxworth finished tied for third in the ACC in interceptions (5) and led the league in passes defended (23).

NORTH CAROLINA

HEAD COACH: JOHN BUNTING

The University of North Carolina football team returns 49 letter winners, including 15 starters, who will look to erase memories of last season ’s disappointing finish when spring practice begins on March 18. In 2002, Carolina fielded of the youngest teams in the Atlantic Coast Conference, with over 73 percent of its roster consisting of freshmen or sophomores. Spring practice will be as valuable as ever this year and should be another stepping stone in Carolina ’s overall improvement. “We were so young last year and we had several key injuries,” said head coach John Bunting..“This spring is a chance for a lot of young players to step up and seize the opportunity to play. I can’t wait to get back on the practice field and see how much we’ve progressed.” A pair of honors candidates – record--setting quarterback Darian Durant and first-team All-ACC free safety Dexter Reid – headline the squad. Durant, a junior from Florence, S.C., is on pace to shatter several school career records, while Reid, a senior from Norfolk,Va., is the nation ’s leading returning tackler. Despite breaking his thumb at Virginia and missing four games last year, Durant still led the ACC in total offense (285.6 yards per game),becoming the first Tar Heel to do so since Paul Miller in 1971.

Although he has made just 12 career starts, Durant has already made a sizeable dent in the school record book. He currently ranks first in career completion percentage (.614),tied for second in career touchdowns (33),fourth in career passing yards (3,966), sixth in career total offense (4,255)and seventh in career completions (289). Reid ranked as the nation ’s No. 2 tackler in 2002, averaging 13.8 stops per game. He finished the season with 166 tackles, a school record for a defensive back and just five shy of linebacker Buddy Curry ’s Carolina record of 171 in 1979. Offense :Last year, Carolina set a school record with 266.6 yards passing per game, but struggled running the ball, averaging 102.5 yards per game on the ground. While the Tar Heels still plan to utilize Durant ’s outstanding playmaking ability, they are seeking a more balanced attack.

For the first time since at least the 1980s, Carolina returns all five starters on the offensive line. Center Jason Brown started all 12 games last year and is a candidate for All-ACC honors after allowing just two sacks and dominating the line of scrimmage. Brown is flanked on the right by senior Jeb Terry, who is considered one of the top guards in the conference. A two-year starter, Terry is a team leader who can also play tackle if needed. He allowed just two sacks from the guard spot last year. At left guard, sophomore Kyle Ralph enters the spring as the starter, but will be pushed by senior Jupiter Wilson. Wilson started the first seven games last season, but gave way to Ralph, who came out of a redshirt season to start the final five games of the season. A pair of juniors – Skip Seagraves and Willie McNeill – return at the tackle positions. Seagraves is at right tackle and McNeill will protect Durant ’s blind side at left tackle. Both started 11 games last year. One of the most promising professional prospects in the ACC is Carolina tight end Bobby Blizzard. An honorable-mention all-conference selection last year, Blizzard finished fourth on the team with 28 catches for 440 yards and tied for the team lead with five touchdowns. An accomplished receiver who can run after the catch, Blizzard has worked hard to improve his run blocking ability. The Tar Heels enter the spring searching for replacements for departed wide receivers Sam Aiken and Chesley Borders. Aiken set school records in catches and yards last year and is expected to be selected in the 2003 NFL Draft in April. Jarwarski Pollock and sophomore Derrele Mitchell will be asked to step up this season after playing for the first time last year. A lightning quick speedster, Pollock had 31 catches for 464 yards and scored four touchdowns, while Mitchell had 15 catches for 232 yards. Sophomore Danny Rumley, senior Brandon Russell and sophomore Michael Gilmore will also contend for playing time.

At running back, Jacque Lewis returns as the starter. He led the team with 574 yards rushing last year, but should be challenged this spring by seniors Willie Parker and Andre ’Williams. Parker has started games in each of the last three seasons and Williams was the team ’s top rusher in 2001. All three have the ability to come up with big lays, but the coaching staff is looking for more consistency in the running game. Williams had back surgery last spring and missed the final eight games of 2002 with lingering back pain. After several months of rest and rehabilitation, he is at full strength heading into the spring. Defense: Carolina ’s youth on defense was often exposed last season as the Tar Heels allowed 450 yards per game. A year of experience and another off-season in the weight room should pay dividends this fall. Heading into the spring, Carolina has just two players who started every game last year – Reid and defensive tackle Chase Page.

Among the top concerns for the coaching staff is the development of the defensive line. Several opportunities exist along the front line as new defensive line coach Brad Lawing works to find a cohesive unit. Jocques Dumas started nine games at defensive end in 2002, but he will be challenged this spring by sophomore Kendall High. Last season, High started seven games at defensive tackle as a true freshman. Page and senior Donti Coats have the inside track at the tackle positions, but will face competition from junior Jonas Seawright and redshirt freshman Mickey Rice. Converted defensive ends Issac Mooring and Jermicus Banks are also under consideration at tackle. Tommy Davis, who started the final five games of the year at defensive end, should retain his starting spot, especially with the loss of senior Will Chapman to a medical hardship. Redshirt freshman Alden Blizzard will battle Davis for playing time this spring.

At linebacker, Carolina returns starters Doug Justice and Clarence Gaddy. Justice started 11 games at middle linebacker and finished second on the team with 97 tackles, the most by a UNC freshman since Dwight Hollier in 1990. He earned All-ACC freshman honors from The Sporting News and was a fourth-team freshman All-America. Gaddy started seven games at outside linebacker and finished with 25 tackles. Senior Clay Roberson will battle for the other outside spot, along with sophomore Jeff Longhany. Both started at least one game last year. In the backfield, Carolina returns Reid and senior cornerback Michael Waddell. Waddell had started 34 consecutive games until breaking his fibula against Clemson and missing the last two contests of the season. Although Waddell struggled last season, he still led the team with eight pass breakups. If he returns to his All-ACC form of 2001, then Carolina should have one of the top secondaries in the conference. Mahlon Carey, the Tar Heels third-leading rusher last year, will move to safety this spring. He started last season at tailback against Maryland, but the coaches feel he can be a valuable asset on defense. Carey, senior Michael Harris, junior Chris Curry and sophomore Tommy Richardson will all compete for playing time. Curry started four games last year and played as a true freshman in 2001. Carolina will miss starter Kevin Knight at the other cornerback position, but returns senior Derrick Johnson, who made three starts last season, and promising sophomore Cedrick Holt. Holt was one of seven true freshmen to see action in 2002 and had a solid game against Florida State in his most extensive playing time. On special teams, Carolina returns kicker Dan Orner, kickoff specialist Topher Roberts, holder Greg Warren and all of its kick and punt return men, including sophomore walk-on Wallace Wright, who finished fifth in the conference last season in kickoff returns.

NORTH CAROLINA STATE

HEAD COACH: CHUCK AMATO

There's no weakness among the starters. The line is strong, the running backs have speed and power, the receivers have potential greatness written all over them and oh yeah, there's a Heisman caliber quarterback ready to pull it all together. The problem is in the depth as there isn't much of it yet. The hope is that the starters can stay healthy while the backups will develop in practices.

Quarterbacks - Philip Rivers, Sr. - Rivers is Ken Dorsey with a better arm. Going into the season, he might be the lead dog for the Heisman with the talent around him to shine and the likeability to be a star with the media. To win the Heisman though, his overall numbers have to go up a bit and he has to lead the Wolfpack to the ACC title. He's been the signature star on the current uprising of a program. Expect a fantastic year. Top Backups - Jay Davis, Soph. - Davis has a little bit of experience seeing time in five games last year, but he's not quite as talented as Moore. He's getting more of the action with the first team being groomed as the prime backup. - Chris Moore, RFr. - Moore is big, strong and has a huge arm. He'll be pushing Davis all year for playing time and should be in a head-to-head battle for the starting gig in 2004. The Skinny: The coaching staff knows what they have in Rivers, so they spent the spring looking at the younger players. That luxury allowed Davis and Moore to see more playing time and get them some valuable experience. Davis might be a great replacement this year if Rivers goes down.

Running Backs - T.A. McLendon, Soph. - While the college football world was oohing and aahhing over Ohio State's true freshman Maurice Clarett, McLendon was having a better season. He's not as good as Clarett is when No. 13 is healthy, but McLendon was a big key to the team's success last year. A big back with a tremendous nose for the goal line, McLendon ran for 18 scores last year. Even when he was hampered by injuries, he still fought for playing time and still produced. - Fullback Chance Moyer, Jr. - The Wolfpack hardly ever uses the fullback so Moyer's job is almost exclusively as a blocker. Top Backups - Josh Brown, Soph. - Brown's quickness is a perfect complement to the powerful McLendon. He rushed for 483 yards last year, but he was caught a bit too much behind the line. He's not a bad receiver catching ten passes. Jeffrey Graves, Jr. - At only 228 pounds, Graves might be a little more of a big tailback than a fullback, but he'll be Moyer's backup.

Receivers - Jerricho Cotchery, Sr. - "J-Cho" came alive last year as No. 17's favorite target on his way to a 67 catch season. He's at his best when he's needed most and became a big-time playmaker averaging 17.8 yards per grab. He's so valuable that the coaching staff held him out of most of the action in pre-season scrimmages.- Sterling Hicks, Jr. - Hicks was fourth on the team with 37 catches last year. The 6-2 split end is a big receiver who has to recover from a shoulder problem to return to his physical self. - Tramain Hall, Soph. - Hall is a backup wide receiver by trade, but he was a sensational high school running back. He could be used to help the depth problem at tailback if he doesn't end up spending most of his time in an H-Back role. Tight end John Ritcher, Soph. - Ritcher played in every game and saw plenty of action, but he only caught one pass. Sean Berton was huge at the position last year as a great pass catcher and blocker and it'll take a while for Ritcher to replace him. Top Backups - Andy Bertrand, Jr. - Bertrand hasn't seen much action, but he played in every game catching three passes. He's expected to push for time at split end. - T.J. Williams, Soph. - Williams might provide a better receiving option at tight end and should be a factor if he overcomes a shoulder problem that prevented him from doing much last year. He caught three passes in 11 games. - Dovonte Edwards, Jr. - With all the talent at receiver, Edwards might end up at corner in a full-time role after seeing a little time there last year. He made 26 catches and could be one of the top pass catchers again if he plays at flanker. Most likely, he'll be on the defensive side.

Offensive Line - Tackle Chris Colmer, Sr. - The team's best offensive line over the last two years, the 6-6, 305-pound senior is a dominating run blocker and has nice enough feet to protect Rivers' blindside. - Guard Ricky Fowler, Jr. - Fowler doesn't have a lock on the starting job yet, but he'll get the first look on the left side. He's still getting used to the offensive side after starting his career on the defensive line. - Center Jed Paulsen, Jr. - Paulsen was becoming a top lineman and a top run blocker before tearing his ACL. He missed spring ball still recovering, but he's expected to be ready to roll for the season. - Guard Sean Locklear, Sr. - His move over from the defensive line last spring worked out well giving the Wolfpack a 295-pound guard. He became one of the line's steadiest players and should be even better this season now that he knows what he's doing. - Tackle Derek Morris, Fr. - Is Morris really ready? The 358-pound star recruit is expected to handle the right side from the word go. After originally signing with Ohio State, he was able to register early to get time this spring. Top Backups - OG Leroy Harris, RFr. - He's big and talented and all he needs is a little bit of time. He'll push Fowler hard for the right guard job. He'll also have to contend with senior Ashley Wingate. - OT John McKeon, Soph. - The 306-pound sophomore saw time in seven games last year as a backup and will push for playing time along with Morris. If the freshman isn't ready to roll, McKeon will see more time. - C Brandon Sanders, Sr. - When Paulsen was knocked out with a knee injury, Sanders filled in and was more than fine. He's not as good as Paulsen, but he can hold his own. Antoine Colvin will push him for the number two job.

Defensive tackle John McCargo, RFr. - McCargo redshirted last year and will be expected to be a top player in the middle. He'll get the first look at the nose, but that's written in pencil. - Defensive tackle Alan Holloway, Sr. - At the most experienced member of the line, Holloway will have to be the anchor in the middle. He was rarely healthy last year and lost time because of it. When he was right, he was a decent run stuffer and was good at getting into the backfield. - Defensive end Renaldo Moses, Soph. - Moses is mostly a special teams player, but he'll use his 210 pounds as a backup behind Lewin. He'll add some speed on the edge. Top Backups - DT Sheldon Lewin, Sr. - Lewin can play on the end or at tackle. The 270-pound former JUCO transfer played in every game last year and made 13 tackles and will backup Holloway at tackle. - DE Terrance Chapman, Sr. - Talk about stepping up your game, Chapman couldn't be blocked in the spring game. He looked great at getting to the quarterback all season. DE Chip Cross, Soph. - Fourth in the end rotation in 2002, he made 13 tackles and a sack. He's only 248 pounds, but he played a bit at tackle. - DT Dwayne Herndon, Soph. - Herndon rebounded from back surgery to see time in the middle. He made seven tackles and is expected to be a top producer rotating with Holloway. - DE DeMarcus "Tank" Tyler, Fr. - The line needs bulk and the Tank provides it. He joined the team early and will add his 308 pounds to the middle of the line.

Linebackers - Manny Lawson, Soph. - Lawson was an expert at blocking punts last year leading the nation with three. Names the dominant defensive player this spring, he also showed he could play a little bit at linebacker in 2002 making 35 tackles last year. He's a rangy player at 6-5 and 216 pounds - Freddie Aughtry-Lindsay, Jr. - It'll be his unenviable job of taking over for Dantonio Burnette in the middle. Aughtry-Lindsay played mostly on the outside last year finishing fifth on the team with 86 tackles and was a huge factor on special teams. Even though he'll start in the middle, he might be moved back to the outside if someone else looks strong inside. Pat Thomas, Jr. - Thomas cleaned up everything Burnette didn't get to. On the weakside, Thomas made 106 tackles and was great at getting into the backfield making three sacks and nine tackles for loss. He put on a show in the Gator Bowl and looks even better coming into this season. With a few breaks, he should be a dark-horse candidate for All-ACC honors. Top Backups- Roger Pollard, Sr. - Pollard provides the senior leadership to the corps. He'll start on the strong side after making 31 tackles last year. At 216 pounds, he's more about speed than strength, but he's still a sure tackler. Oliver Hoyte, Soph. - Hoyte is a big hitter on the special teams and should bring that same intensity to the middle as Aughtry-Lindsay's backup.

Secondary - Cornerback Marcus Hudson, Jr. - Hudson started most of last year and returns on the right side. He's not the coverman that Lamont Reid is, but at 6-2, he's great at handling the bigger receivers. - Rover Andre Maddox, Jr. - Maddox is essentially a fourth linebacker. He's the leading returning tackler making 128 stops last year and isn't all that bad in pass coverage. He hits like a ton of bricks and should be one of the best safeties in the ACC. Free safety Troy Graham, Jr. - After mostly playing on the special teams, it's Graham's job to replace All-Everything Terrence Holt. The former receiver is still learning the position and will have to battle for playing time. He could stand to add a little more weight to his 6-3 frame. Cornerback Lamont Reid, Jr. - The team's best cover corner, Reid broke up nine passes last year and was a top special teams player. He's a big corner who's getting better and better with more work. Top Backups - CB Greg Golden, Jr. - Golden did a little bit of everything last year playing a little at tailback and becoming the team's top kickoff returner. After the emergence of T.A. McLendon, Golden moved to corner where he made 26 tackles. - Rover J.J. Jones, Soph. - After having to sit out last year, Jones is ready to make a splash. He was able to practice and should hit the ground running as Maddox's backup bringing excellent athleticism, but not the Maddox's tackling ability. - CB A.J. Davis, RFr. - Davis was ready to be a top contributor last season before breaking his leg in the a practice. The injury happened so early that he should be better than ever by the start of the season. Special Teams - Placekicker and Punter Austin Herbert, Sr. - Herbert will contend with Adam Kiker for the starting placekicker job. Kiker made 5 of 7 field goals last year before having problems with back spasms cutting his season short. If he's healthy, he'll be a strong weapon. Herbert hit 5 of 9 field goals last year in Kiker's place.. Herbert also handled the punting duties, but he only averaged 37.2 yards per kick.

VIRGINIA

HEAD COACH: AL GROH

It's all about the offensive line. Needing to overcome injuries and youth, the line took a long while to come together last season. The running game which was so average last year should be far better this season as a the line is better. The passing game could use a few game-breaking receivers, but Matt Schaub should make the average corps look great. Quarterbacks - Matt Schaub, Sr. - Schaub came from out of nowhere to be the best player in the ACC last season. He was ultra-efficient completing 69% of his passes throwing for 2,976 yards, 28 touchdowns and seven interceptions. Even when the rest of the team was having problems, Schaub still produced and always found ways to keep the offense moving. If a few receivers step up, Schaub should have another great season. Top Backups Anthony Martinez, RFr. - The 249-pound Martinez has a big arm and is getting better and better with more time. He was strong enough this spring that the coaches moved Marques Hagans to receiver.

Running Backs Wali Lundy, Soph. - The 212-pound Lundy became more of a factor as last year went on finishing the season with 826 yards and six touchdowns. He had a hard time find holes to run through behind an inexperienced line, so he became more useful as a receiver making 58 grabs for 435 yards and four scores. His breakout game came against West Virginia in the Continental Tire Bowl scoring four times Fullback Kase Luzar, Sr. - The former tight end spent last year learning how to play fullback. A smart player with nice hands, Luzar will play a key role in making the running game go. Top Backups Marquis Weeks, Jr. - Weeks did a little of everything last year from running the ball to returning kicks to catching a few passes out of the backfield. He led the team with a 5.1 yard per carry average. Alvin Pearman, Jr. - Pearman is still recovering from a knee injury and is expected to be a factor this year behind Lundy. He was second on the team with 343 yards and four touchdowns. Michael Johnson, Soph. - All of the Cavalier tailbacks are quick, but Johnson adds the blazing speed. Even though he was slowed by an ankle injury, he still ran for 133 yards and a touchdown. Jason Snelling, Soph. - Snelling will back up Luzar at fullback. He's a better rusher and receiver than a blocker rushing for 38 yards and catching 31 passes for 314 yards and four touchdowns.

Receivers - Ryan Sawyer, Sr. - The 6-2 Sawyer stepped into the limelight when Billy McMullen went down in the bowl game and caught four passes. He mostly played on special teams, but he showed a great ability to get deep averaging 17.7 yards per catch on his 11 grabs. Michael McGrew, Sr. - The team's leading returning wide receiver, McGrew made 27 catches for 428 yards and two touchdowns. He's a big, strong receiver that should end up being one of Virginia's top deep threats and Schaub's number one target. Tight end Heath Miller, Jr. - Miller had a huge freshman season as one of the best young tight ends in college football. He became a nice blocker as the season went on. He has great hands around the goal line making 14 catches for 33 yards and nine touchdowns. Top Backups - Ottowa Anderson, Jr. - Anderson was dependable receiver last season making 17 catches for 184 yards and three touchdowns. He'll be more of a factor as the season goes on. Art Thomas, Sr. - Thomas will move over from corner to receiver adding his 6-2 size to the corps. He should turn into a playmaker with more time. Marques Hagans, Soph. - With Schaub at quarterback, Hagans will move to receiver to find a way to get him on the field. He's too athletic and too talented not to see time somewhere. Patrick Estes, Jr. A great all-around tight end, Estes will join Miller in two tight end sets. He can catch the ball as well as block making 13 grabs for 97 yards and four touchdowns.

Offensive Line - Tackle D'Brickashaw Ferguson, Soph. - Ferguson established himself as one of the best young tackles in the ACC with a great true freshman season. He's not huge at only 265 pounds, but he has great athleticism and outstanding technique. - Guard Brian Barthelmes, Soph. - The 286-pound sophomore can play either guard or tackle starting the season on the left side. He has a big frame and could end up adding a few more pounds to become more of a dominant run blocker. He was sidelined this spring with inflamed blood vessels in his brain, but he's expected to get clearance to play by the summer. Center Kevin Bailey, Sr. - Bailey injured his knee early last year cutting short what should've been an all-star campaign. At 293 pounds, he's one of the bigger players on the line. Guard Elton Brown, Jr. - The 333-pound Brown is a great all-around lineman combining size and great athleticism. He had a few problems with a foot injury last year and still turned in one of the best seasons of any lineman in the conference. Tackle Brad Butler, Soph - Butler started as a true freshman playing both at guard and center. The 6-8 sophomore will start the season on the right side. Top Backups C Zac Yarbrough, Jr. - He stepped in when Bailey hurt his knee and did an admirable job. He was supposed to be the team's long snapper before hurting his hand. OG/C Mark Farrington, Jr. - Able to play either at guard or center, the 280-pound Farrington will back up Brown on the right side. He can play on the left side if necessary. This was a very, very young defense that took several lumps last season. Now this is an experienced group with several rising superstars. The linebackers could eventually be among the best in the country if Ahmad Brooks and Kai Parham make the instant impact many think they will. The secondary has to tighten up.

Defensive Line - Defensive end Brennan Schmidt, Soph. - The 269-pound Schmidt can play either on the nose or end. He had a wildly productive freshman season making 87 tackles and showing a tremendous motor. Nose tackle Andrew Hoffman, Jr. - Hoffman returns to the nose after making 56 tackles. The 285-pound junior started every game last year turning into one of the team's steadiest defensive players. Defensive end Chris Canty, Jr. - On the verge of superstardom, the 6-7, 280-pound Canty could be an elite pro prospect with a little more work. He's a tremendous tackler and a blossoming pass rusher. Top Backups DT Melvin Massey, Soph. - Massey isn't big at only 262 pounds, but he'll push for time on the inside after making three tackles in a reserve role. DE Braden Campbell, Soph. - The 278-pound Campbell adds more size to the end behind Schmidt. He was a valuable reserve playing in every game making 17 tackles. DE Kwakou Robinson, Soph. - A potential superstar, the 327-pound Robinson is a big player with an explosive step. He made 34 tackles as a reserve on the end and should be even better with more time.

Linebackers - Raymond Mann, Sr. - Mann was becoming one of the most dependable players on the Cavalier defense before having problems with an injured knee. He still finished the season with 28 tackles, but he wasn't nearly 100%. All should be fine and he should once again be a force on the outside. Rich Bedesem, Jr. - A sure tackler with outstanding instincts, Bedesem should be a force on the inside again coming off a 58 tackle season. Bryan White, Jr. - White has spent his career as a reserve with 49 total tackles. Versatile enough to play inside or out, he'll get the first look on the inside keeping the seat warm for Kai Parham and Ahmad Brooks. Darryl Blackstock, Soph. - Blackstock became a star in his freshman season on the outside making 107 tackles and ten sacks. Able to run wild with veteran linebackers occupying everyone's attention, he'll be a little bit more of a marked man this season in blocking schemes. He's 230 pounds and has the 6-4 frame to get even bigger. Top Backups Kai Parham, RFr. - The superstar recruit is expected to become one of the best linebackers in the ACC. He'll start the season behind Bedesem, but he'll get in the starting lineup soon into the season. He's too good to keep off the field. Ahmad Brooks, Fr. - After spending last year at Hargrave Military Academy to get his grades up, the hyped prep player should become an instant star on the inside. He's big, fast and should be a superstar after a little bit of time.

Secondary - Cornerback Almondo Curry, Sr. - Even at 5-8, Curry finds ways to make plays and is able to overcome his size with outstanding tackling ability. He made 59 tackles and three sacks last season while also being one of the team's top cover corners. Safety Jermaine Hardy, Jr. - More of a big corner than a safety, Hardy will get the first look at one of the safety spots after making 48 tackles and picking off two passes as a reserve. - Safety Jay Dorsey, Jr. - At 6-2, Dorsey is a big defensive back who'll need to make a big impact as a starter. He made 14 tackles playing as a reserve and on special teams. Cornerback Jamaine Winborne, Sr. - Winborne is one of the best hitting corners in the ACC. At 202 pounds, he packs a punch making 61 tackles last season. He also broke up six passes. Top Backups S Willie Davis, Soph. - Davis might be the team's best hitter. He made 33 tackles last season as a true freshman and should see plenty of action as the third safety in the rotation. - CB Marcus Hamilton, RFr. - After redshirting last year, the coaching staff really likes the 6-0 Hamilton as a bigger option than Curry at one corner.

WAKE FOREST

HEAD COACH: JIM GROBE

It's hard to imagine that a team with only three returning starters will be better than the year before, but it's possible. Wake Forest has replaced the departed starters with better athletes, and all they need is a little bit of time. The line should be outstanding and the running game should be as strong as it was last year. Wide receiver Jason Anderson is a star. Quarterbacks - Cory Randolph, Soph. - The backup behind James MacPherson last year, Randolph played in nine games throwing for 333 yards. He's a better runner than a passer, but his accuracy is coming around. He'll be a more effective runner than MacPerson was, but he has to show he can make the same decisions. Top Backups Zac Taylor, RFr. - More of a pure passer than Randolph, Taylor could see playing time if the Demon Deacons are looking for more production in the passing game. Anders Larson, RFr. - The walk-on is a smart player who could become a valuable practice player. He'll be the clear number three.

Running Backs - Chris Barclay, Soph. - A good all-around back, Barclay was second on the team with 703 rushing yards and nine touchdowns last season. He only caught four passes last year, but he'll be used more out of the backfield as well. He's not a big back, but he used his quickness to average five yards per carry. - Fullback Nick Burney, Sr. - After the team was hammered by injuries, Burney took over a bulk of the carries and finished the season rushing for 412 yards and a touchdown. He's not a traditional fullback, but is a great blocker nonetheless. Top Backups - Cornelius Birgs, Soph. - A great combination of power and speed, Birgs ran for 260 yards and four touchdowns last year. He'll be a major factor. Dominic Anderson, Soph. - After seeing time at safety, Anderson will give running back a shot again after making 20 tackles last season. He' sonly 6-0 and 190, but he's freakishly strong. Fred Stanton, Jr. - Coming off a redshirt season to concentrate on his studies, he has the potential to be the star of the backfield. As a pure talent, Stanton is the best of the bunch, but he has to keep his weight down and has to establish himself again in practices.

Receivers - Jason Anderson, Jr. - While not technically a starter last year, Anderson became the team's most dangerous receiver averaging 23.3 yards per catch and leading the team with six touchdown catches. No one else caught more than one scoring pass. The Demon Deacons don't throw much, but they have a weapon in the 6-3 junior. Chris Davis, Soph. - He played as a true freshman catching five passes for 53 yards. He's one of the fastest players on the team with his sprinter's speed. Tight end R.D. Montgomery, Jr. - A solid all-around tight end, Montgomery isn't involved in the passing game, but he should be. At 229 pounds with speed, he can get open. Now the team needs to get him the ball. Top Backups Anthony Young, Sr. - Young was a backup quarterback before switching over to the receiving corps and made ten catches for 116 yards. Before last year he couldn't stay healthy, but now he needs to become a consistent playmaking receiver. Willie Idlette, RFr. - A great all-around athlete with great speed and jumping ability, Idlette will backup Davis. He has looked sensational at times this spring and there are whispers that he could be starting very soon. Dan Callahan, RFr - After starting his career on the offensive line, the 259-pound Callahan will back up Montgomery at tight end as a pure blocker. He spent his spring working on his studies.

Offensive Line - Tackle Mark Morosz, Sr. - He missed spring ball, but he should be back in time for the fall to fight Wesley Bryant for the job. He might be every bit as god a pro prospect as Tyson Clabo with great feet and is getting stronger. A former tight end, Morosz brings great athleticism to the position. - Guard Chad Rebar, Sr. - After moving from tackle to guard, Rebar gives the line a decent amount of experience and nice size. The 32-pound senior can move a bit. Center Blake Lingruen, Jr. - Lingruen returns to his starting spot in the middle. He overcame a shoulder problem to become a solid player who got better and better as last season went on. Guard Tyson Clabo, Sr. - The best player on the line, Clabo flourished at guard after starting his career at tackle. A superior run blocker, the 314-pound Clabo is a strong warhorse who'll be the leading factor in a strong running game. Tackle Greg Adkins, Soph - Known as one of the hardest workers on the line, Adkins is making himself into a solid player. He'll start on the right side. Top Backups - OG Joe Sasich, Jr. - The former defensive lineman can move, but he needs to get a little big bigger. He'll back up Rebar on the left side. OT Wesley Bryant, Soph. - The Florida transfer sat out last year, but will challenge Moroz for the left tackle job. A star prep player, he could end up starting the season.

On defense, the back eight pretty much returns intact, but the pass defense has to tighten up. Even though the entire undersized front line needs replacing and is a huge concern, it's active and might not be all that bad if the top four linemen can stay healthy. Defensive Line Projected Starters - Defensive end Jerome Nichols, Jr. - Nichols saw a little bit of playing time last year making fie tackle in seven game. An great athlete at 274 pounds, he's expected to be one of the team's top pass rushers. - Nose tackle Goryal Scales, Soph. - After backing up Montique Sharpe, Scales is ready to start in the middle. He played in every game last year making 22 tackles. The 283-pound sophomore has to be a big time run stuffer on the nose. - Defensive end John Finklea, Soph. - Finklea could be a star. He's 273 pounds with great quickness. He played sparingly in ten games last year making four tackles and will star this year on the right side. Top Backups DT Cory Stukes, Soph. - He's only 250 pounds, but he'll be the team's primary backup at tackle. Even at his size, he's extremely strong. The coaching staff would love to move him to linebacker, but can't. His motor is always running. DE Jamaal Argrow, Sr. - After getting hurt in spring ball last year, Argrow played some at linebacker making 28 tackles and two sacks. He's a little small at 230 pounds, but he'll add more speed at the end. - DE Arthur Orlebar, Soph. - At 6-4 and 246 pounds, he's a rangy player with room to grow. He's considered one of the smarter players on the line, but only saw time in three games.

Linebackers - Dion Williams, Sr. - Williams battled with Brad White for the middle linebacker job, but he was never healthy enough to push for the position. He'll get the first look at one of the outside spots after making 45 tackles last year. Brad White, Jr. - After coming over from Georgia, White became a force in the middle leading the team with 94 tackles and made five tackles for loss, a sack and broke up six passes. He bulked up a little bit, but is still a hard-nosed player for only being 226 pounds. Kellen Brantley, Sr. - Brantley led the team in tackles in 2001 and made 61 last season. The 236 pound senior can move and should make a huge impact with White cleaning up everything inside. Top Backups - Mike Hamlar, Jr. - After missing spring ball last year with a hand problem, he wasn't able to have the season expected of him. He's a nice prospect who should be one of the main backups on the outside. Jason Pratt, Soph. - Pratt will get the first shot at backing up Brantley on the outside. He's a little more of a bulked up strong safety than a linebacker, but he could be a factor.

Secondary - Cornerback Eric King, Jr. - One of the team's rising stars, King tied for the team lead with three interceptions and made 63 tackles. As the best cover corner on the team, he broke up seven passes last year. Strong safety Warren Braxton, Jr. - A big hitter who always seemed to make big plays last season, Braxton returns to his strong safety spot after making 61 tackles. He's just as big a factor against the pass as he is against the run. Bandit Caron Bracy, Jr. - Without a lot of fanfare, Bracy was second on the team with 82 tackles last year. He's got nice size with enough speed to cover most running backs coming out of the backfield. Free safety Quintin Williams, Sr. - Possibly the best defensive back on the team, Williams is a big hitter making 72 stops. He's also great at getting into the backfield with nice timing and instincts. Cornerback Daryl Shaw, Sr. - Shaw can play safety if necessary, but he's establishing himself as a solid corner. He picked off three passes last season and made 57 tackles. Top Backups Bandit Obi Chukwumah, Sr. - A big player that can jump through the roof, Chukwumah adds experience to the secondary. If Bracy ever gets off the field, Chukwumah will see some action. CB Marcus McGruder, Jr. - McGruder's time decreased as last season went on, but he's good enough to fill in if something happens to Shaw or Williams. He made 31 tackles and broke up two passes last year. CB Robert Simmons, Soph. - A sensational athlete, all Simmons is missing is more playing time. He'll back up King after seeing time in eleven games last year. Special Teams Placekicker Matt Wisnosky, Soph. - The placekicking job was a concern at the beginning of 2002, but Wisnosky alleviated all fears hitting 17 of 25 field goals and 33 of 36 extra points. With a wee bit of improvement, he could be one of the ACC's best. Punter Ryan Plackemeier, Soph. - As a true freshman, Plackemeier came on to average 43.2 yards per kick on 32 punts last year. In a pinch, he could also kick field goals even though he missed both of his attempts last year.

BIG TEN CONFERENCE

ILLINOIS

HEAD COACH: RON TURNER

Illinois has to overcome the loss of some major skill players including the whole receiving corps. Even so, things aren't that bad. There's talent at receiver with help on the way. The running backs should be strong going with a committee of backs. The quarterback situation is the best in the Big Ten. Quarterbacks - Jon Beutjer, Sr. - After Dustin Ward started the season, Beutjer took over and became a top player. It took a little while, but he was sensational once the light went on finishing the season averaging a Big Ten best 228 passing yards per game. A big player with a huge arm, he was precise completing 62% of his throws down the stretch. Look for him to be an All-Big Ten caliber player this year. Top Backups - Dustin Ward, Sr. - Ward started the first five games and came off the bench to lead the Illini to a comeback win over Purdue. He's not as talented as Beutjer, but he's an outstanding No. 2 option if need be. He missed all of spring ball overcoming a shoulder problem. Chris Pazan, RFr. - The 6-2, 210-pound redshirt freshman and Tim Brasic are battling for the No. 3 job, but they might see some playing time getting groomed as the quarterbacks of the future.

Running Backs - Morris Virgil, Jr. - Virgil might get the starting nod, but it's doubtful if he'll be a workhorse sharing time with three other backs. The 195 pound junior averaged 7.7 yards per carry on rushing for 216 yards and three scores last year before missing the second half of the season with a knee injury. Fullback Carey Davis, Sr. - The 225-pound fullback isn't just a blocker, Davis is a solid ball carrier as well. He was second on the team in rushing last year carrying the ball 59 times for 319 yards averaging 5.4 yards per carry. Top Backups James Cooper, Soph. - Cooper can flat out fly. He the biggest of the rotating tailbacks at 200 pounds and brings his sprinter's speed to the backfield. Cooper played in five games last year rushing for 32 yards. Ibrahim Halsey, Fr. - The 2002 star recruit is expected to make an impact when he joins the team this season. He's already listed as neck-and-neck starter with Virgil. Franklin Payne, RFr. - A great all-around athlete and nice pass catcher in practice, Payne will most likely be third in the running back rotation seeing time in passing situations. Brad Haywood, Jr. - While Davis is a runner at fullback, Haywood is more a pure blocker. He carried the ball once last year. Jason Davis, Soph. - The 220-pound sophomore played in five games last year rushing for 64 yards. He'll be another decent running option at fullback.

Receivers - Kendrick Jones, Soph. - Jones played in eight games catching one pass for 12 yards, but he's mainly been a special teams standout. He has the speed, but now he has to prove he can be relied on to consistently make plays. Ade Adeyemo, Jr.. - A speed receiver, Adeyemo has been a special teams player throughout his career. Now he's expected to be one of the team's top deep threats. Tight end Anthony McClellan, Jr. - McClellan caught eleven passes last year for 142 yards and two touchdowns. He's not a very physical tight end, but he's a great pass catcher. Top Backups Kelvin Hayden, Jr. - Hayden is the best receiver on the team. The NJCAA Offensive Player of the Year, he's a sensational athlete and knows how to get into the end zone. Look for him to provide an instant spark when he gets into camp. Jamaal Clark, Sr. - The former defensive back returns to his natural position to back up Jones. At 6-2, he's a big target and very physical. Mark Kornfeld, Jr. - He came to Illinois as a quarterback, but he moved to receiver last year. He'll compete with Adeyemo for playing time. Melvin Bryant, RFr. - Bryant is an interesting prospect. He has the speed of a receiver, but the size of a tight end at 6-5 and 220 pounds. He'll be a backup at both positions. Estus Hood, Jr. - Primarily a special teams player, Hood will be the top back up at tight end. He's not much a pass catcher yet, but he can block.

Offensive Line - Tackle Sean Bubin, Sr. - Bubin will start his third year in a row at left tackle. The 300-pounder has grown into the job becoming one of the rocks of the line. - Guard Bryan Koch, Jr. - Mainly a backup last year, Koch will get the first look at left guard replacing all-star Dave Diehl. He's 285 pounds with enough experience to be a top prospect on the inside. Center Duke Preston, Jr. - Preston learned on the job starting last season for the Illini. At 305 pounds, he's a tough run blocker and is expected to progress into an All-Big Ten type of player. Guard Matt Maddox, RFr. - Maddox is neck and neck with Kyle Schnettgoecke for the starting right guard job. Maddox is younger, but he has 15 pounds on the sophomore. Tackle Bucky Babcock, Jr. - Babcock is one of the best in the Big Ten. He's moving from guard to right tackle to take over the spot held by All-Everything Tony Pashos. He's experienced, strong and very athletic. Top Backups - G Kyle Schnettgoecke, Soph. - He'll get every shot at the starting right guard job. He's a little light at 275 pounds, but he's getting better. C David Hilderbrand, Jr. - Preston is becoming a rock in the middle, but Liderbrand will see time as his backup at center and left guard. OL Martin O'Donnell, Fr. - An interesting prospect, O'Donnell is one of the Illini's best offensive line recruits in the Ron Turner era. He might not be in the mix right away, but he's worth keeping an eye on. The Illini has speed and athleticism, but it isn't all that physical.

The front seven should be great at getting into the backfield and should once again be solid against the run. The secondary is a concern without much talent on the corners. Defensive Line - Defensive end Derrick Strong, Sr. - Strong became a sensational pass rusher last year making 54 tackles, five sacks and 12 tackles for loss. After being hampered by a shoulder problem over the second half of the season, he should be a terror now that he's 100%. All that's missing is consistency. Defensive tackle Aaron Hodges, Sr. - After starting last year on the offensive side, Hodges became a top player in the defensive tackle rotation over the second half of last year. With a little more work, he's expected to become a big-time producer splitting time with Charles Gilstrap. Defensive tackle Jeff Ruffin, Sr. - At 295 pounds, Ruffin is the biggest run stuffer on the inside making 22 tackles last year. He's athletic and great at getting into the backfield. Defensive end Mike O'Brien, Sr. - O'Brien came out of nowhere to become a superior pass rusher making three sacks and 11 tackles for loss despite splitting time with Brian Schaefering. He'll combine at the position again, but that only helps the 225-pound O'Brien recharge. Top Backups DE Brian Schaefering, Jr. - At 260 pounds, he provides a bigger option behind O'Brien. Schaefering made 34 tackles, four sacks and five tackles for loss. DE Scott Moss, Soph. - Moss is one of the few linemen that won't rotate into the lineup since Strong always stays on the field, but he's still a good backup and provides a bigger option on the end. DT Charles Gilstrap, Sr. - Expected to be a key in the tackle rotation, Gilstrap made six tackles last year and should play more of a role this year.

Linebackers - Joe Bevis, Sr. - He'll combine with Antonio Mason at one of the outside positions. The 220-pound Bevis is smaller than Mason, but a little bit more active, more polished and more experienced. He made 49 tackles last year. Matt Sinclair, Jr. - It'll be up to Sinclair and Mike Gawelek to combine to take over for 2002's leading tackler Jerry Schumacher in the middle. Sinclair finished fourth on the team with 56 tackles and is one of the stronger linebackers on the team. Ty Myers, Sr. - Myers has the line on one of the outside jobs battling with Winston Taylor and Cyrus Garrett. Myers has started 18 games over the last couple of years making 36 tackles last season. He's also outstanding at getting into the backfield. Top Backups Antonio Mason, Soph. - Mason will be in the mix with Bevis for the starting job on the outside. At 245 pounds, he's bigger than Bevis and will turn out to be the better player. All that's missing is experience. - Mike Gawelek, Jr. - Primarily a special teams player, Gawelek isn't quite the player Sinclair is, but Gavelek will see plenty of action in the rotation. Winston Taylor, Sr. - Taylor is a 240 pound physical player seeing time in 11 games making 28 tackles last year. Cyrus Garrett, RFr. - This is the future star of the linebacking corps. Garrett is 6-3, 230 pounds and fast. He'll combine with Taylor and Myers on the outside, but his time will come.

Secondary - Cornerback Sharriff Gillon, RFr. - It'll be up to Gillon and Darnell Ray to take the place of superstar Eugene Wilson. Gillon isn't all that big, but he's extremely quick. Free safety Travis Williams, Soph. - Williams made 38 tackles last year and might be the most athletic of all the safeties. He's a solid kickoff returner and could become a major playmaker as his career goes on. Strong safety Marc Jackson, Sr. - Jackson will get the first look at strong safety and will be a primary backup at free safety. With three players rotating at the two starting spots, Jackson will find a spot on the field after finishing last year second on the team with 67 tackles and always found his way to the ball. Cornerback Christian Morton, Sr. - With teams staying away from Wilson, Morton got a lot of work thrown his way, and he responded at times with five pass breakups, but he had major problems at other times. He has to step up his play as the team's number one cover corner. Top Backups Strong safety Eric McGoey, Sr. - McGoey made a nice transition from receiver to make 25 tackles and an interception last year. He'll see time at strong safety. Cornerback Darnell Ray, RFr. - The 6-1, 160-pound Ray is bigger than the 5-8 Gillon. It should be cornerback by rotation for a while until the Illini coaching staff finds someone they can count on. Special Teams - Placekicker John Gockman, Sr. or J.J. Tubbs, Sr. - Peter Christofilakos was solid from short range, but he can be replaced. Gockman has a cannon of a leg hitting five of five from 40-49 yards, but missed his two kicks from beyond 48 yards. Tubbs was one of the team's main kickers in 2001 hitting 6 of 9 field goals. Punter Steve Weatherford, Soph. or Matt Minnes, Jr. - The two combined to punt for the Illini last year and each could use some improving. Weatherford averaged 39.7 yards per kick over the second half of the season taking over for the Minnes who lacked any boom on his kicks. The two will battle for the job again this season.

INDIANA

HEAD COACH: GERRY DINARDO

The offense will only work if the offensive line shines. The skill players should be excellent with the 1-2 receiving punch of Glenn Johnson and Courtney Roby working well with new quarterback Matt LoVecchio. There are three good running backs to rely on. The problem will be on the line with no depth and little overall experience. Quarterbacks Projected Starter - Matt LoVecchio, Jr. - The former Notre Dame signal caller will take over the starting job after sitting out a year. He has experience leading the Irish to a good 2000 season before losing the job in 2001 to Carlyle Holiday. An average passer, he's used the last year to sharpen his skills to go along with his decent mobility. Top Backup - Graeme McFarland, RFr. - After spending last season seeing time in practice as the team's third string quarterback, the decent armed McFarland should be a well-prepared No. 2. He isn't big, but he has good passing skills and O.K. mobility.

Running Backs - Brian Lewis, Sr. - Lewis was the team's top back before injuries knocked him out for the season. He averaged 4.4 yards per carry going for 438 yards, but he didn't get into the end zone. He's the best receiving tailback on the team and should be better and more effective splitting time with Yamar Washington. - John Pannozzo, Soph. - Pannozzo is an average blocker, but a fantastic receiver out of the backfield catching 26 passes for 258 yards and three touchdowns. He can carry the ball a little bit and should see a few more short yardage carries this year. Top Backups - Yamar Washington, Soph. - Washington became a godsend after Lewis got hurt taking over the starting role rushing for 688 yards and nine touchdowns. He turned into a decent receiver catching 15 passes for 91 yards. He's extremely quick and should emerge once again be a top back in the IU offense ... next year. He thought he sprained his knee in the spring game, but it turned out to be a torn ACL and will keep him out this year. - Chris Taylor, Soph. - Taylor became a major factor in the offense after Lewis went down as Washington's backup. At 207 pounds, he's a good sized back able to carry the load rushing for 102 yards against Northwestern. - Alex Stscherban, RFr. - A decent athlete, Stscherban will initially be used as a blocking fullback.

Receivers - Glenn Johnson, Sr. - Johnson became an top target blowing up for 53 catches for 837 yards and five touchdowns averaging 15.8 yards per grab. He's a good sized receiver with the experience to outsmart most defensive backs. - Courtney Roby, Jr. - Roby emerged as one of the Big Ten's most dangerous receivers averaging 17.6 yards per catch leading IU with 59 grabs for 1,039 yards and four touchdowns. With his size, speed and playmaking ability, he could grow into a superstar with Johnson taking the heat off on the other side. He's the cousin of former Iowa Hawkeye star punter Reggie Roby. - Tight end Aaron Halterman, Jr. - Halterman turned into one of IU's most reliable receivers catching 27 passes for 292 yards and a touchdown. He's a big player who's physical enough to play defensive tackle and quick enough to get open on offense. Top Backups Tyke Spencer, Soph. - Spencer is a quick receiver able to find the seams in the defense. He'll back up Roby after catching 17 passes for 231 yards and two touchdowns. - Travis Haney, Jr. - The 6-4 Haney is the team's biggest target with great potential. He's athletic and physical. Now he has to put it all together after catching 11 passes for 174 yards. - Patrick Thompson, Jr. - Thompson can be used as a big receiver or a small tight end. The 6-2, 223-pound sophomore will start the season behind Halterman at tight end.

Offensive Line - Tackle Isaac Sowells, Soph. - Sowells played as a reserve seeing time in every game. The 310-pound sophomore is expected to become a top starter on the left side. - Guard Jacob Wagner, Jr. - At 324 pounds, Wagner is a huge player with a little bit of experience playing in every game last year. He'll be in the starting role now that Anthony Oakley was kicked off the team. - Center Brandon Hatcher, Soph. - Hatcher was never healthy last year hindering his development. After being Chris Jahnke's understudy, the 296-pound sophomore will get the start at center. - Guard Adam Hines, Soph. - One of the rising stars on the line, the 301-pound Hines took over as a starter early on and was a fixture for the final ten games. He's a great run blocker on the right side and should grow into the best player on the line. - Tackle Chris Jahnke, Jr. - Jahnke is 305 pounds and a veteran center. He'll move out to right tackle to use his experience and all-around ability. Top Backups - OG Anthony Oakley, Sr. - Will he be let back on the team? Oakley earned time as a starter at both guard and center. He's the best player on the line earning Honorable Mention All-Big Ten honors last season showing a nice combination of power and quickness. He was supposed to be the starter before getting released from the team for failing a conditioning drill. DiNardo and Oakley made a deal before the spring that the senior wouldn't make the team if he didn't pass the test.

Defense - It's hard to see how this defense is going to come close to stopping anyone in the Big Ten. There are seven players with starting experience, but this is still a very, very young defense. The front seven is undersized and there's no depth whatsoever. The secondary should be greatly improved. Star of the defense: Senior FS Joe Gonzalez Player that has to step up and become a star: Junior DT Martin Lapostolle Unsung star on the rise: Sophomore DE Victor Adeyanju Best pro prospect: Sophomore CB Damien Jones - Defensive Line - Defensive end Jodie Clemons, Jr. - The 275-pound Clemons is a good sized defensive end with a little bit of speed. He made 33 tackles, two sacks and 5.5 tackles for loss. - Defensive tackle Martin Lapostolle, Jr. - Lopostolle is a former linebacker moved to the defensive line to take advantage of his size. He has decent quickness and a little bit of experience making 14 tackles in ten games. - Defensive tackle Russ Richardson, Soph. - Richardson played as a true freshman and took over the starting role after the opener. He's only 251 pounds and wasn't able to use his quickness to get into the backfield only making one sack. Defensive end Victor Adeyanju, Soph. - He got better as last season went on finishing the season as one of IU's better pass rushers. The sophomore made 33 tackles and two sacks. Top Backups - DT Chris Beaty, Soph. - At 265 pounds, Beaty is one of the team's smaller tackles, but he's one of the most experienced even though he only saw action in seven games.

Linebackers - Jason Cartwright, Jr. - The 5-11, 217-pound Cartwright isn't big and isn't experienced. He played in four games last season and didn't make a tackle, but he'll start on the weak side. - Kyle Killion, Soph. - Killion missed most of last year with an injury, but he still made 28 tackles, a sack and a tackle for loss. Only 223 pounds, he makes plays in the middle with his speed. He had a tremendous spring and should be IU's top linebacker. - Kevin Smith, Jr. - Smith came off a knee injury to become a top reserve making 18 tackles. He has five games of starting experience and will start on the strong side. Top Backups - Andy Halterman, RFr. - At 242 pounds, Halterman is a bigger player in the mix. He redshirted last season and appears ready to player on the strong side. - Randy Cate, Jr. - The former walk-on hasn't seen the field and will be the main backup in the middle.

Secondary - Cornerback Damien Jones, Soph. - Jones started every game last season before missing the last few games with an ankle problem. He's an experienced player after getting thrown into the fire as a freshman and came through clutch making 55 tackles and led the team with three interceptions. - Free safety Joe Gonzalez, Sr. - Gonzalez missed most of last season with a hernia. Before getting knocked out, he was one of IU's top hitters making 18 tackles and picking off two passes. He's not huge, but he's an active player who's always around the ball. - Strong safety Will Lumpkin, Soph. - Lumpkin saw more action as last year went on finishing the season with 17 tackles and broke up three passes. He's a smart, quick player that should become more of a factor with more experience. The problem? He might not be able to keep Herena Daze-Jones off the field. Cornerback Leonard Bryant, Soph. - Bryant became more of a factor by the end of last year after being a key reserve. He finished with 26 tackles proving to be a great open-field hitter. Top Backups - Strong safety Herena-Daze Jones, Jr. - Jones was IU's second leading tackler as a linebacker making 108 stops and 7.5 tackles for loss even though he misses a game. He's more of a defensive back with his 205-pound size and will be a big-time hitter when he gets a head of steam from the safety position. - Cornerback Buster Larkins, Soph. - Larkins became a starter midway through last year making 49 tackles as a safety. At 5-11 and 177 pounds with decent speed, he'll be better as a corner. - Free safety Luke Stone, Jr. - The JUCO transfer is a big player and a big hitter. He's too athletic and too talented to keep off the field. Special Teams - Placekicker Bryan Robertson, Jr. - Robertson was maddeningly inconsistent from mid-range, but he showed a huge leg from deep hitting 6 of 7 shots from beyond fifty yards while connecting on only 2 of 5 from 30 to 39. He'll battle Adam Brucher for the job. Punter Tyson Beattie, RFr. - The Australian native was the only punter on the Hoosier roster this spring. He's a big player with a big leg replacing the 38.2 yard per kick production of Ryan Hamre. If it helps, Beattie is a sensational cricket player.

IOWA

HEAD COACH: KIRK FERENTZ

Iowa has to replace a Heisman Trophy runner-up at quarterback, a John Mackey Award winning tight end and four starters from the offensive line. It's not time to panic yet with a great set of receivers and good running backs returning, but this group won't be the juggernaut that last year's Iowa offense was. Everything started up front last year and unfortunately, this line isn't anywhere near as good. Quarterbacks - Nathan Chandler, Sr. - It's asking too much for Chandler to step in and become the nation's passing efficiency leader like Brad Banks was. but Chandler could shine with a great array of skill players to help him out. The 6-7, 250 pound senior has the arm and the experience to instantly shine if he can improve on his accuracy. Top Backups - Matt Bohnet, Soph. - The 6-3 Bohnet is another big quarterback with a huge arm on the Iowa roster. He doesn't have the playing experience that Chandler has. He'll see some action being groomed as the starter for next year. - Jason Manson, RFr. - Manson will be neck and neck with Bohnet for the number two job behind Chandler.

Running Backs - Fred Russell, Sr. - The first team All-Big Ten performer returns after rushing for 1,284 yards and nine touchdowns last year. He has home run hitter speed once he gets through the line with the wiggle to make anyone in the defensive back seven miss. While not necessarily a workhorse, he doesn't seem to wear down despite only being 5-8 and 190 pounds. - Fullback Edgar Cervantes, Sr. - He's used primarily as a blocker but he can carry the ball a bit as well carrying the ball 26 times for 134 yards and a touchdown averaging 4.8 yards per carry. He is one of the Big Ten's best fullback. Top Backups- Jermelle Lewis, Jr. - At 212 pounds, Lewis provides more pop than Russell does and also has some decent wheels once he gets through the line rushing for 709 yards and eight touchdowns with a team best 5.8 yards per carry. He suffered a torn ACL and will be out for at least six months, but the coaches are still hoping he can be back for the season. - Marcus Schnoor, Soph. - A big back with talent, Schnoor was great when he got a chance to get on the field. All he needs are a few more reps to get comfortable.- Aaron Mickens, Jr. - Mickens saw a little bit of playing time last year only carrying the ball seven times. He won't unseat Cervantes serving as a reliable replacement at fullback if need be.

Receivers - Ed Hinkel, Soph. - Hinkel became invaluable as a redshirt freshman hitting singles while Maurice Brown took care of the home runs. The 6-1 sophomore caught 22 passes for 218 yards and a touchdown last year. He's not going to scare too many people primarily serving as a consistent underneath receiver. - Maurice Brown, Sr.. - Brown, a physical receiver with speed, was deadly last season catching 48 passes for 966 yards and 11 touchdowns averaging 20.1 yards per grab. While Nathan Chandler isn't Brad Banks, he can throw the deep ball and there's no reason to think the talented Brown can't repeat his 2002 production. - Tight end Erik Jensen, Sr. - Hi Erik. All you have to do is replace the best tight end in America. With Dallas Clark leaving early for the NFL, it'll be up to the 259-pound Jenson to learn how to catch the ball more after being used primarily as a blocker in two tight end sets. He doesn't have anywhere near the speed that Clark possesses. Top Backups - Clinton Solomon, Soph. - As a true freshman, the 6-4 Solomon caught 14 passes for 159 yards and a touchdown, but was inconsistent. The former quarterback is developing into a better and better receiver and will back up Hinkel at split end. - Ramon Ochoa, Sr. - A decent kick returner in the past, Ochoa will back up Brown this year. He made five catches last year averaging 12.8 yards per grab. Tony Jackson, Jr. or Mike Follett, Soph. - Each has a chance to become a big part of the offense as the Hawkeyes will be looking for receiving production from the tight end slot. Follett, a former outside linebacker, might have the best shot of turning into a productive receiver. The 270-pound Jackson will be used almost as a third tackle, but he didn't look bad this spring and could become a major factor.

Offensive Line - Tackle Robert Gallery, Sr. - The lone returning starter from last year's amazing line returns to his spot at left tackle. He isn't just the best player on the line, but he might be the best offensive lineman in the Big Ten and should be up for every post-season honor. If he had decided to come out early, he would've been a first round draft pick. Instead, the 6-7, 317-pound senior will have to be the anchor on a young line. Guard David Walker, Jr. - Walker is good enough and big enough to see time on the left side. He'll start the season as starter, but he'll get plenty of competition. Center Eric Rothwell, Sr. - After missing all of 2001, Rothwell came into last year as a backup guard. He'll get the first look at center and could end up seeing more time at guard if another center emerges. Guard Kory Borchers, Sr. - Borchers isn't the most talented player on the line and will have to battle to keep his job, but he provides some experience to the left side having started three games in 2001 and playing last year as a reserve. - Tackle Pete McMahon, Jr. - The 323-pound junior can play tackle or guard and will see the time on the right side. The former walk-on is extremely athletic for a player of his size. Top Backups - G Chris Felder, RFr. - Possibly the next great Iowa lineman, Felder is a big player who could still add a few more ponds to his frame. He'll push McMahon for time on the right side. - G Sam Aiello, Sr. - Aiello has a little bit of starting experience over the first two years of his career and he's a much better player now. With decent feet and good quickness, Aiello should be a nice backup on the right side if he gets off a team suspension. - T Blake Larson, Soph. - He's a 6-7, 310-pound player that's been clocked at 4.9 in the 40. He'll be a starting tackle in 2004.

Even with some major losses, the defense should be outstanding. The line could be the best in the Big Ten if there aren't any injuries to the starters, while the linebackers could be strong with time. The concern is over the secondary where two young corners have to give Iowa more production than it got last year. Defensive Line - Defensive end Howard Hodges, Sr. - The 6-2 senior is one of the nation's best defensive ends. An All-Big Ten performer last year, Hodges made 62 tackles and nine sacks last year. - Defensive tackle Jared Clauss, Sr. - With Colin Cole gone, Clauss becomes the team's top tackle. An honorable mention All-Big Ten performer last year, Clauss made 59 tackles and six sacks in the middle. He's not all that big, but he's extremely active. - Defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux, Jr. - The junior will make the move from end to tackle this season to replace Cole. He had a solid season on the outside, but he'll be much better inside to utilize his run stopping talents. - Defensive end Matt Roth, Jr. - Roth came on to become one of the Big Ten's premier pass rushers as 2002 went on recording nine sacks in conference play and ten overall. He could be an All-Big Ten player if he progresses as much as he did at the end of the year. He was arrested for public intoxication and possession of a fake driver’s license, but the matter will be handled internally and he should play. Top Backups - DE Derreck Robinson, Jr. - Robinson saw time in 11 games making six tackles. He'll back up Roth and will be a major player in the line rotation. - DT Joey Helms, Sr. - He didn't see a whole bunch of time last year only playing in five games, but as a senior, he's expected to be one of the team's top backup tackles.

Linebackers - Grant Steen, Sr. - Steen was a second-team All-Big Ten performer last year and will start on the outside. Equally strong against the run or pass, Steen made 57 tackles last year and picked off three passes in a game against Indiana. - Kevin Worthy, Sr. - Possibly the most valuable linebacker on the team now that Fred Barr is gone, Worth, who made 84 tackles last year, could end up playing in the middle or get moved to the outside if Abdul Hodge looks ready to take over inside. He has nice speed clocking in at 4.7 in the 40. - Chad Greenway, Soph. - Greenway's season never got going trying to overcome an early knee injury, but he ended up playing in eight games making 15 tackles. He might start on the weakside if Worthy doesn't get moved there. Top Backups - Abdul Hodge, Soph. - Hodge played in every game last year making 38 tackles. He has nice range for a middle linebacker prospect and could take over the job full-time. - Ed Miles, Soph. - After looking strong this spring, Iowa has another option it can rely on at any of the three positions. - Jermire Roberts, Sr. - The former defensive back brings that speed to the linebacking corps. He beefed up 15 pounds and should be a factor on the outside.

Secondary - Cornerback Jovon Johnson, Soph. - Johnson started twice as a true freshman picking off four passes and is expected to develop into the team's top corner. He's not big, but he has a knack for making plays. - Free safety Sean Considine, Jr. - Considine will take over for Derek Pagel at free safety after seeing time throughout his career as a backup. A smart player, he made 26 tackles last year and will have to play a huge role this season. - Strong safety Bob Sanders, Sr. - A leading candidate for the Jim Thorpe Award, Sanders is the best safety in the Big Ten packing a wallop in his 5-8 frame. He was second on the team with 102 tackles last year. While he hits like a linebacker, he also covers like one even though he was second on the team with twelve broken up passes. - Cornerback Antwan Allen, Soph. - Allen is growing into a great corner. He's a sure open field tackler making 60 stops last year and he picked off four passes. Top Backups - Free safety Chris Smith, Sr. -Smith played in five games last year making five tackles. He'll combine with Considine at free safety. - Cornerback Chigozie Ejiasi, Jr. - At 6-0, he's the team's biggest corner and should play a bigger role this season. He played in every game last year making 13 tackles. - Strong safety Marcus Pashal, RFr. - He's not going to unseat Sanders at strong safety, but he might be almost as talented as will be groomed as the star of the future. Special Teams - Placekicker Nate Kaeding, Sr. - He's the nation's best kicker as the returning Lou Groza Award winner. He hit 21 of 24 field goals last year showing marvelous range connecting on 8 of 9 from beyond 30 yards. - Punter David Bradley, Jr. - Bradley's 39.5 yards per kick was a bit misleading as he put 30 inside the 20. He became a night and day better kicker since his freshman year and could be an All-Big Ten performer if he makes another step up.

MICHIGAN

HEAD COACH: LLOYD CARR

Michigan should be brutally effective with one of the nation's most talented offensive lines. Having a front wall like thus will allow seasoned veteran John Navarre time to throw, and provide big holes for star back Chris Perry. There isn't a whole bunch of explosiveness, so don't expect big play after big play. Look for this to be an offense that grinds out yards, time and moves down the field with little problem. Keep an eye on the team's conversion percentage on third down. It could be ridiculously high. Quarterbacks Projected Starter - John Navarre, Sr. - The whipping boy of the program for a few years, Navarre didn't even have a firm grasp on the starting job going into last season. As happens with most young college quarterbacks, he got much better with more reps and more experience. Now he's a confident quarterback with a good command of the offense. His interception total dropped from 13 to 7 while his touchdown passes went from 19 to 21. Look for him to be a sneaky sleeper candidate for the Heisman if Michigan goes on a big run. Top Backup - Spencer Brinton, Sr. - Brinton is John Navarre-big with a good arm and nice drive on his passes. He hasn't seen much action, but he's a mature player with a good understanding of the offense. - Matt Gutierrez, RFr. - The 6-4 Gutierrez fits the typical mold of big, strong Michigan quarterbacks. He won't be in the mix for the starting job anytime soon, but he has to use this year to get groomed for the run at the top spot in 2004.

Running Backs - Chris Perry, Jr. - One of the nation's top underrated backs, Perry grew into weapon last season rushing for 1,110 yards and 14 touchdowns. He capped off his great year with a huge performance against Florida flashing his receiving skills catching six passes for 108 yards. Beware Big Ten, he looks even better coming into the 2003 season. - Sean Sanderson, Soph. - The 289-pound Sanderson is a huge player and a big blocker, but he lost time this spring sitting out to work on his studies. If and when he returns, he'll take over the job. Top Backups - David Underwood, Jr. - Underwood saw a limited amount of action last year rushing for 105 yards and a touchdown. Look for the 225-pound junior to make a major impact this year with good size and wonderful power playing behind Perry.- Tim Bracken, Jr. - The 207-pound Bracken is behind Underwood in the running back rotation for the moment, but he'll see plenty of action with good skills and nice quickness. He carried the ball 27 times last year for 97 yards and a touchdown before breaking his leg. - Brian Thompson, RFr. - With Sean Sanderson missing time this spring, Thompson saw a bulk of the action at fullback. He isn't as big or as physical as B.J. Askew was, but he should be fine with a little bit of time.

Receivers - Braylon Edwards, Jr. - Edwards is the next, great Michigan receiver. Taking over the fabled #1 jersey, Edwards should establish himself as one of the premier receivers in college football this season coming off a 67 catch, 1,035 yard, ten touchdown season. He has size, speed, and great playmaking ability, but he's not necessarily a deep threat. Working with a veteran quarterback like Navarre, Edwards should be a lock for 12 scores and 1,200 yards. - Tyrece Butler, Sr. - Butler will battle for the starting receiver job after making 21 catches for 199 yards. Playing both offense and special teams, he has more experience than any receiver on the team. With his size and smarts, he should be a great complement to Edwards as the year goes on. - Tight end Andy Mignery, Sr. - Also the backup punter, the 6-3 Mignery will push for Bennie Joppru's starting tight end job. The former quarterback is a smart player with good athleticism, but he's still learning how to be a top receiver. Top Backups - Calvin Bell, Sr. - Bell was a rising playmaker after the 2001 season catching 15 passes for 169 yards and three touchdowns, but he didn't make much of an impact last year only making two catches. He'll be in the mix for the starting receiver spot on the other side of Edwards. - Jason Avant, Soph. - Potentially a great one, all the 6-1 sophomore needs is time to grow into the role. He caught two passes for 21 yards last year. - Jermaine Gonzalez, Jr. - Gonzalez was in the quarterback mix a few years ago adding mobility and speed to the position. Firmly entrenched in the receiver rotation now, he'll be a factor as the year goes on. He's been a big playmaker so far in his career averaging 21.7 yards per catch on six grabs. - Tim Massaquoi, Jr. - He came to Michigan as an elite wide receiver prospect, and bulked up to become an athletic tight end. He'll battle Mignery for the starting job adding better receiving skills to the mix, but he won't just be a tight end playing a little at receiver and fullback.

Offensive Line - Tackle Adam Stenavich, Soph. - A CFN Freshman All-American, Stenavich will take over the starting job on the left side after getting three starts last year. He has a little bit of experience at guard, but he has feet and athleticism more suited for tackle. - Guard David Baas, Jr. - The 299-pound Bass is one of the best offensive linemen in the country. He's an experienced player with great leg drive making him punishing at the point of attack. He can play either guard spot starting this year on the left side. - Center Dave Pearson, Sr. - Pearson isn't just great on the field, he's wonderful in the classroom as well as an Academic All-America candidate. He brings experience and leadership to the line after starting every game last season. He's one of the best run blocking centers in America. - Guard Matt Lentz, Soph. - Lentz is in a neck-and-neck battle with Leo Henige for the starting right guard job. He was the prime backup behind Dave Petruziello last year giving the line more experience, but not as much size as Henige. - Tackle Tony Pape, Sr. - The Michigan line has some great players, but Pape is the star. The 305-pound tackle has grown into a tremendous pass blocker with good feet for and nice shuffling ability for a player of his size. He's the most experienced, and versatile, lineman on the team able to play on the left or right side. Top Backups - C Andy Christopfel, Jr. - He provides an experienced backup behind Pearson in the middle. He's good enough to start if necessary being groomed as the team's 2004 center. - G Leo Henige, Soph. - The 318-pound sophomore is emerging as a top player on the line. If he doesn't end up taking over on the right side, he'll be one of the first players in the line rotation.

With the glaring exception of the Iowa game, Michigan's defense turned into a brick wall as the regular season went on. Even though there were a few key injuries and problems against Florida, this was still a good defense. Now it needs to overcome the loss of players like Dan Rumishek, Shantee Orr, Victor Hobson, Charles Drake and Cato June. Michigan has the talent to reload, but it might take a while to jell. Defensive Line - Defensive end Larry Stephens, Sr. - Stevens is poised for a breakout year after making 45 tackles, four sacks and nine tackles for loss. He isn't just a pass rusher, he's a strong player against the run able hold at the point of attack. - Defensive tackle Norman Heuer, Sr. - Heuer missed most of spring ball having a cyst removed from his knee, but the 288-pound senior should be ready to start this season. The 2001 starter, he started the first four games of last year before Bowman took over. Look for him to be strong at getting into the backfield. - Defensive tackle Grant Bowman, Sr. - The 290-pound senior is one of the team's most experienced players, and an anchor on the line. He isn't going to get many headlines or honors, but he's a steady force needed for the rest of the line to work around. Defensive end Alain Kashama, Sr. - Kashama is a good sized end with great athleticism and a decent amount of experience seeing time in thirty games. He's a good pass rusher that has never quite lived up to his potential, but now he'll get his chance to shine. Carr has raved about him coming out of spring ball. Top Backups - DT/DE Patrick Massey, Soph. - Massey will be in the hunt for a starting job somewhere on the line. He's 6-8, 262 pounds with good overall athleticism. Even though he isn't all that heavy, he's a little more suited for tackle. Michigan needs him on the end. - DT/DE Alex Ofili, Soph. - Ofili saw time as both an end and a tackle last year. At 262 pounds, he isn't quite big enough to be an effective every down tackle. - DT Gabe Wilson, Soph. - At 358 pounds, Watson is a mammoth body on the inside. He saw a little bit of time as a true freshman, and should play a huge role this year.

Linebackers - Carl Diggs, Sr. - Diggs is coming off a broken leg suffered against Ohio State. Before the injury, he saw time in 36 games making 15 starts with 135 career tackles and 21 tackles for loss. He's a true run stopper with great sideline to sideline skills. Zack Kaufman, Sr. - Kaufman started ten games last year making 43 tackles, two sacks and five tackles for loss. He missed the last few games of the season with a knee injury, but he's scheduled to be 100% by the start of the season. While he's a rock against the run, he can also make plays dropping back into pass coverage. - Pierre Woods, Soph. - Woods will get a shot at playing on the outside after seeing a little time last year on defense and special teams. He's a tall, rangy player with good speed and a nice nose for the ball. Top Backups - Roy Manning, Jr. - Manning was supposed to grow into a top producer on the outside, but he was hurt almost all of last year. He's good at getting into the backfield showing nice instincts and timing. - Scott McClintock, Soph. - McClintock turned into one of the team's better inside linebackers starting two games and earning time as a top reserve making 39 tackles. He started out as a good special teams performer before becoming a valuable defender. - Joey Sarantos, Soph. - Sarantos is a smart player that got stronger as last year went on. He ended up starting against Wisconsin and made four tackles against Ohio State. He's more of a strong safety than a linebacker, but he's physical enough to be strong on the outside. - Lawrence Reid, Soph. - The 219-pound Reid will try and become a factor in the linebacker mix after getting hurt midway through last year. He was turning into a top reserve making 13 tackles in five games before going down.

Secondary - Cornerback Marlin Jackson, Jr. - Jackson doesn't get a whole bunch of national recognition, but he's one of the best cover-corners in college football with size, speed and great open field tackling ability. He has 98 career tackles, but he's at his best locking on to everyone's top receiver. In his first two years, he has 98 tackles, six tackles for loss, a sack, six interceptions and 25 broken up passes. - Strong safety Jon Shaw, Sr. - Shaw has made a name for himself as one of the best special teams players on the team, but now he has to make more of an impact as a defensive back. He got two starts last year at free safety when Cato June went down, but he's more likely to compete for the starting strong safety slot. - Free safety Ernest Shazor, Soph. - At some point, Shazor is going to be a star. The 6-4, 218-pound athlete is too good and has too much talent not become a top defensive back. He saw a little bit of time as a reserve last year making 25 tackles and broke up four passes. Even though he can play either safety position, he's more suited for free safety. - Cornerback Jeremy LeSueur, Sr. - LeSueur got a fifth year in the program as a top corner and kickoff returner. He's one of the most experienced players on the team with 122 tackles, two interceptions and 15 broken up passes. A big player with speed, he's an effective corner on the other side of Jackson. Top Backups - Safety Jacob Stewart, Soph. - Stewart saw action as a true freshman making three tackles on special teams. Now he's expected to push for time at both safety spots utilizing his hitting ability and size. - Cornerback Markus Curry, Jr. - Curry is an experienced reserve with three starts and time in 17 games. He's a good sized corner able to hit and able to make plays when the ball is in the air with seven broken up passes last year. He'll be the first player in behind LeSueur and Jackson. - Placekicker/Punter Adam Finley, Jr. - Finley helped turn around the Michigan kicking game last season hitting seven of ten field goals showing the consistency the team sorely needed. He also hit 20 of 20 extra points. He turned into a whale of a punter as well averaging 42.2 yards per kick putting 16 inside the 20.

MICHIGAN STATE

HEAD COACH: JOHN L. SMITH

There aren't any established stars, so the Spartans will rely on several players to fill the roles at all the key spots. The quarterback situation will remain a mystery until the fall when Jeff Smoker gets an honest shot at taking back the job. The running backs and receivers lack any appreciable experience, but they can all fly. Quarterbacks Damon Dowdell, Jr. - Dowdell came in last year and gave the offense and occasional shot in the arm. He was fearless at throwing the deep ball throwing for ten touchdowns and four interceptions. He has decent size and a little bit of speed, but he isn't necessarily a running quarterback. It'll be a battle up until the opener for the starting job. Top Backup - Drew Stanton, RFr. - Stanton has a big arm and a surprisingly good command of the offense for a redshirt freshman. He can throw equally well on the move or in the pocket. If his performances this spring were any indication, he's ready to take over the starting job. Jeff Smoker, Sr. - Smoker was off the team for a bit last year after having substance abuse problems. He hasn't been given a free pass by the new coaching staff needing to earn his way back into playing time. With his arm strength and experience, he'll be the perfect quarterback to lead the John L. Smith offense if he can get in the mix for the No. 1 job.

Running Backs - Jaren Hayes, Soph. - Hayes will combine with Tyrell Dortch to give the Spartans a decent rushing attack. While he isn't going to barrel over anyone, he'll be a home run hitting back with his sub-4.4 speed and great cutting ability. He finished last season third on the team with 340 yards with four touchdowns averaging 5.6 yards per carry. Top Backups - Tyrell Dortch, Jr. - Dortch spent last year trying to come back from a broken leg suffered when he played corner. The 209-pound junior will add some power to the backfield as the team's biggest running back. - Jerramy Scott, RFr. - Scott is a quick back with good breakaway speed. He saw action in one game carrying the ball nine times for 44 yards. - Jason Teague, Soph. - Teague saw action in eleven games last year rushing for 59 yards on nine carries. He won't take over the starting job, but he'll see plenty of action battling Scott for the number three job.

Receivers - Kyle Brown, Soph. - Brown is a good sized receiver with great speed and fantastic upside. He tore an ACL in high school, but now appears to be ready to make a big impact. No, he's not Charles Rogers. No one is. Even so, he's a good enough prospect to get the coaching staff excited. - Ziehl Kavanaght, Sr. - Kavanaght spent last season playing behind B.J. Lovett at flanker making 11 catches for 123 yards. He isn't a speed receiver using his quickness and hands to make plays. - Agim Shabaj, Soph. - Shabaj was a huge recruit for the Spartans and needs to turn into one of the team's best deep threats. He only made six catches for 45 yards last year, but with his 4.37 wheels, that should change. - Tight end - Eric Knott, Jr. - The 272-pound Knott made the successful transfer from the defensive line to tight end in a hurry. He's a punishing blocker with great hands finishing second on the team with 35 catches for 349 yards and four touchdowns. Top Backups - Matt Trannon, Soph. - The 6-7 basketball star was a top recruit for the program and should be one of the team's top receivers this season. He isn't just big and athletic, he's also very, very fast. - Ben Steckler, Soph. - Steckler didn't come through last year only catching one pass for 16 yards. This season, the 6-4, 208-pound athlete should play a huge role using his size and wonderful speed to push for starting time. - Robert Gallegos, RFr. - The super-quick redshirt freshman will be a top backup in the slot. Even though he's only 5-9 and 169 pounds, he'll have to make plays across the middle. Aaron Alexander, Soph. - The 6-5 quarterback has been converted to receiver after getting nudged out of the mix. With his speed and athleticism, he's too good to keep off the field. - Jason Randall, Jr. - Randall and Knott will combine to give the Spartans a great 1-2 tight end punch. Even though he isn't as big as Knott, he's a decent blocker with good deep speed for a 256-pound player catching 20 passes for 255 yards and three touchdowns.

Offensive Line - Tackle Stefon Wheeler, Sr. - Wheeler spent most of last year playing behind Ulish Booker, and he should grow into a top lineman. He's 320 pounds with decent speed and excellent feet. - Guard Joe Tate, Sr. - The 304-pound senior returns to his starting spot on the left side. One of the smartest players on the team, he's an Academic All-Big Ten performer off the field, and a power run blocker on it. - Center DeMarco Monroe, Sr. - With Brian Ottney out with chronic knee problems, the 330-pound Monroe will be the man in the middle. A big blocker who could be great in the running game with great strength. - Guard Paul Harker, Sr. - The line got a huge break when the NCAA gave Harker a sixth year of eligibility. He had a problem with neck and shoulder injuries over the course of his career, and now he gets an extra year to give the line more experience and talent. He's taking on the leadership role on the line. - Tackle Steve Stewart, Sr. - Stewart returns to his starting spot on the right side providing two years of experience to the line. He should turn into a devastating all-around blocker in his final year. Top Backups - C Chris Morris, Soph. - Monroe might be listed as the starter, but Morris is the better player and will end up taking over the center job very soon. C Joe Brooks, Sr. - The 299-pound Brooks should be more in the mix now that Ottney can't go. Brooks will back up at center, and he can play guard in a pinch. - G William Whitticker, Jr. - One of the best physical specimens on the team, the 6-6, 315-pound junior will provide tremendous depth if he doesn't take over one of the starting jobs. - T Sean Poole, Jr. - Poole has a little bit of experience and plenty of practice time over the years. He's a big player able to step in at either tackle spot.

The MSU defense got worse as last year went on getting shoved around against good running teams. This is a defense completely devoid of stars, but that doesn't mean it can't play. The linebacking corps has decent returning production, while the secondary has some excellent young prospects. Now the line has to come through against the run. Generating some semblance of a pass rush wouldn't be a bad thing. Defensive Line - Defensive end Greg Taplin, Sr. - Taplin missed a little time for violating team rules, and it cost the team. He isn't a great pass rusher with average speed, but he's a solid force against the run and is able to be a disruptive force in the backfield. In ten games, he made 38 tackles and two sacks. - Defensive tackle Brandon McKinney, Jr. - He got bigger adding a almost twenty pounds to his frame. An extremely strong tackle with decent quickness, the 312-pound junior should be a force coming off a 26 tackle, two sack season. - Defensive tackle Kevin Vickerson, Jr. - Vickerson returns to his starting spot on the line after becoming one of the team's steadiest forces making 42 tackles, a sack and six tackles for loss. Even though he isn't huge, he's strong and is good at shedding blockers. - Defensive end Clifford Dukes, Jr. - Dukes overcame and injured shoulder to grow into MSU's best pass rusher. He made 39 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, and four sacks in nine games. Top Backups - DT Greg Yeaster, Jr. - Yeaster isn't all that big at 265 pounds, so he uses his quickness to make plays. He made a bit of an impact as a reserve with 13 stops. - DE Clifton Ryan, RFr. - At 281 pounds, Ryan adds a huge body to line backing up Taplin at the end. He bulked up 20 pounds over the last year.

Linebackers - Seth Mitchell, Soph. - Mitchell has the size suited to play in the middle, but the 242-pound sophomore will use his size and speed on the weak side. He missed time with problems with his shoulder and neck finishing with 29 tackles in six games. - Ronald Stanley, Jr. - Stanley has been an unsung playmaker in the Spartan linebacking corps for two years now. After turning into big hitting player as a freshman, he grew into a top force on the defense finishing second on the team with 99 tackles with two sacks and nine tackles for loss. The 225-pound junior will get the start in the middle. Monquiz Wedlow, Sr. - Wedlow ended up moving from the middle to the strong side and became a top playmaker finishing with 90 tackles and three sacks. He's only 198 pounds using his speed and quickness to make plays on the outside. He's not quite fast enough to be an effective defensive back, so his physical style is better suited for linebacker. Top Backups Mike Labinjo, Sr. - Labinjo saw time on the weak side when Mitchell couldn't go. He's a bit of a freak of nature with 4.7 speed, great strength, and outstanding athleticism making 62 tackles. Luc Mullinder, Sr. - Mullinder didn't do too much last year making three tackles, but the 291-pound senior will have to be a top backup behind Dukes.

Secondary - Cornerback Ashton Watson, Soph. - Watson is a good sized defensive back with great speed. He was a top recruit last year and came through as a true freshman making 20 tackles and an interception. Now he'll be asked to be the team's new lockdown corner. Free safety Jason Harmon, Jr. - Harmon adds leadership as the lone returning starter into the secondary. He was fourth on the team with 64 tackles to go along with three interceptions. He has to be a bit stronger when the ball is in the air using his speed and size to be an intimidator. Strong safety Derron Ware, Soph. - The 6-3, 215-pound Ware stepped in as a true freshman making three tackles on special teams. He has the speed and the size to become a good player, and he needs to shine right away at strong safety. - Cornerback Roderick Maples, Jr. - After being a top reserve for two years, Maples will get the start at right corner. He isn't the speed player that Watson is, but he's quick. Top Backups - Defensive back Jeremiah McLaurin, Sr. -He has the size and speed to play either corner or safety. He was a solid reserve last year with 15 tackles, and will backup both Harmon and Maples. - Cornerback Darren Barnett, Soph. - At 6-0 and 175 pounds, he's a good sized corner prospect with a bit of speed. He has great hands and quick feet.

MINNESOTA

HEAD COACH: GLEN MASON

Fresh off its 29-14 victory over Arkansas in the 2002 Music City Bowl, the Golden Gopher football team heads into the 2003 season full of confidence and poised to raise the stakes to an even higher level. After competing in their third bowl game in four years under head coach Glen Mason and winning their first postseason game since 1985, the Gophers have reason to believe that last year's bowl victory is a preview of things to come in 2003. With 41 returning lettermen, including eight starters on offense and eight on defense the table has been set for the Gophers to build off their first eight-win season since 1999. Coach Mason is excited about the options his team will have offensive y with a veteran cast returning. “Our offense returns almost entire y intact, especially at the skill positions with Asad Abdul-Khaliq at quarterback, the trio of Thomas Tapeh, Terry Jackson and Marion Barber III at running back and Ben Utecht at tight end,” said Mason. “We also have four of five starters back on the offensive line which will be a big plus for us and with the addition of several role players at wide receiver and incoming junior college player Paris Hamilton, we are looking to have an exciting spring.”

QUARTERBACK Leading the charge will be senior quarterback Asad Abdul-Khaliq, who is on the verge on becoming one of the most prolific quarterbacks in Golden Gopher history. Despite playing with a nagging ankle injury for a majority of the season, Abdul-Khaliq still managed to complete 165 of 315 passes for 2190 yards, which ranks sixth all-time in school history for passing yards in a season. His 19 touchdown passes in 2002 were only one shy of the school record for scoring passes in a season. He enters his final year at Minnesota only three touchdown passes away from setting the school record in that category. Besides posting solid passing numbers, Abdul- Khaliq continued to give opposing defenses problems with his scrambling ability and knack for making plays outside the pocket. He had a career-high 322 rushing yards last season, including a career-best 103 yards rushing in the Gophers ’win over Toledo. Backing up Abdul-Khaliq for the second straight season will be Benji Kamrath, who filled in nicely in his only start last year. Kamrath engineered a 45-42 win over Northwestern on October 10. 2003

RUNNING BACK Abdul-Khaliq will have plenty of weapons to work with this season, including possibly the strongest trio of running backs in the nation. Junior Terry Jackson II and senior Thomas Tapeh became one of the best backfield combinations in the Big Ten last season. After a hamstring injury forced tailback Marion Barber III to the sideline following the fourth game of the season, Jackson stepped up and made the most of his opportunity as a starter. He exploded onto the scene with 1,317 yards on 239 carries. Jackson has great vision and his slashing style led him to the fifth best rushing total in single-season history. He became the first Gopher ever to rush for 200 yards in consecutive games as he totaled 239 and 238 yards, respectively, in wins over Northwestern and Michigan State. By contrast, Tapeh used his powerful prowess to steamroll over opposing defenses. Tapeh registered four 100-yard games in 2002, including three straight Thomas Tapeh against Illinois, Northwestern and Michigan State. His signature moment last season came against Arkansas in the Music City Bowl as he powered through several would-be tacklers on his way to a 33-yard touchdown run, sealing the game for Minnesota. Even with the accomplishments of Jackson and Tapeh, Barber will not be a forgotten man in 2003. The sophomore tailback has a great blend of size and speed that enabled him to average 6.9 yards per carry in 2001. Barber has fully recovered from his injury last season and is expected to return to form this year. The Gophers ’receiving core will feature a great mix of size and speed. Aaron Hosack returns for his senior season after leading the team with 649 receiving yards. Hosack has great hands and leaping ability and was able to capitalize on mismatches with smaller cornerbacks last season. He was the Gophers ’ big--play threat, averaging 22.4 yards per catch. With the loss of Antoine Burns to graduation, junior college transfer Paris Hamilton is projected as the Gophers ’ other starting receiver. Hamilton was ranked as the No. 1 junior college receiver by JCFootball.com and should have an immediate impact on the offense. Much like Hosack, Hamilton has good size and is very dangerous after the catch. Also returning to the mix are lettermen Tony Patterson, Keith Matthews and Jared Ellerson. Patterson finished last season strong by posting his three best receiving games to end the regular season. He is another big receiver (6-2,205)who does most of his damage over the middle. Matthews will compete for time after his season was cut short by a knee injury. He played in 11 games, totaling 51 yards on six catches. Ellerson showed big-play potential last year by scoring touchdowns on his first two receptions of the season. He has good speed and showed improvement throughout the season.

The key to the Gophers ’offensive success may lie neither with a running back nor receiver, but with senior tight end Ben Utecht. Utecht started last season in overdrive, scoring five touchdown in his first three games, including three against Louisiana-Lafayette before an ankle injury limited his production. He came up big for the Gophers ’in their biggest game of the season, hauling in five passes for 77 yards with a touchdown in the Music City Bowl. A dominant run blocker as well, Utecht can create mismatches in favor of the offense because of his versatility. Also returning at tight end is Chad Redmann, who lettered for the second time last season after playing in all 13 games. Despite being very young, the Gophers ’strength for 2003 and beyond could reside on the offensive line. The Gophers lose two longtime contributors in tackles Jeremiah Carter and Jake Kuppe, but have stability with all three starters returning on the interior line. Center Greg Eslinger and left guard Mark Setterstrom set the standard last season by starting all 13 games as true freshmen. The freshmen duo was named to the Sporting NewsFreshman All-America Team. Eslinger has great quickness, and with a year of experience and 30 pounds added to his frame ,he should be a key contributor up front. Setterstrom was also a big reason for the Gophers ’success on the ground last season. He is among the best on the team at finishing off his blocks and his relentlessness allowed the Gophers to rush for at least 200 yards seven times last season. Senior Joe Quinn earned his second letter in 2002, starting all 13 games. The former walk-on is the elder statesman of the offensive line and provides leadership to a very young group. At tackle, the Gophers will turn to junior Rian Melander and sophomore Mike Nicholson. Melander earned his way into the starting lineup for the final two games of 2002 and will move from right tackle to left tackle to protect Abdul-Khaliq ’s blindside. He was part of a group last season that allowed less than 1.5 sacks per game. Nicholson will take over at right tackle after seeing significant playing time last season on the interior line. Also competing for playing time are veterans Matt McIntosh (6-8,305), Mark McElroy (6-5,275),Trevor McCulloch (6-4,330), and Lance Sannes (6-7,295). Defensively, the Gophers are hoping to pick up in 2003 where they left off at the Music City Bowl.

Defensive coordinator Greg Hudson loses cornerback Michael Lehan to graduation, but sees a majority of his defense return with another year of experience. Coach Mason believes that with another year under their belt this defense could be much improved for the 2003 campaign. “Youth was the term that was used most often last year in association with our defense, and while we will still be a young defense, we will also be more experienced. We were able to add additional size through our strength and conditioning program last fall and winter and we are looking forward to seeing an improved defense this spring,” said Mason. The defensive line is completely intact from last season with veterans Dan Kwapinski, Paul Nixon and Darrell Reid leading the way. Kwapinski is a solid run stopper at tackle and provides continuity to the line after missing only one start during the past two seasons. Reid made huge strides last season at nose tackle, leading all defensive lineman in tackles with 43 and tying linemate Paul Nixon for the team lead in tackles-for-loss with eight. Nixon was a key component on the line last season at defensive end and showed he had big-play potential by recording a career-high three sacks at Ohio State. Sophomore Mark Losli earned a starting spot at defensive end four weeks into the season and displayed a knack for getting to the quarterback by accumulating six sacks. Another player who figures to be fighting for a starting spot is sophomore Anthony Montgomery. The 6-5,315-pound Montgomery forced opposing offenses to think twice before running his direction. He is very athletic for his size and made significant strides toward the end of the season. Sophomore Scott Stephenson has had a tremendous offseason after finishing strong with an increased role at the end of last season. Stephenson lettered as a true freshman, starting twice.

The position of highest competition may reside at linebacker, where several veteran players will be competing against each other. Heading the group is senior Ben West. West started every game at strong-side linebacker last season, finishing second on the team in tackles with 103, including seven tackles-for-loss. West is solid against the run and is a sure tackler. Sophomores Terrance Campbell and Kyle McKenzie didn’t enter last season in the starting lineup, but they made enough of an impression to end the season there. Campbell gradually improved throughout last season at weak-side linebacker and although he doesn’t have tremendous size, he more than makes up for it with his speed. He is good in pursuit and tallied seven tackles-for-loss in 2002. McKenzie displayed his athleticism when he took over as a starter in the last two games. He has great lateral movement and showed the ability to cut off running lanes and to close quick y in coverage. He will compete with senior Phil Archer at drop linebacker. Archer is a three-year letter- winner who specializes in shutting down the running game. He will provide veteran leadership after playing in at least 10 games each of the past three seasons. Eli Ward has become the leader of the secondary after leading the team in tackles last season with 116. An honorable-mention All-Big Ten selection in 2002, Ward has terrific instincts and is always around the ball. He intercepted two passes against Louisiana-Lafayette last season and had four games with at least 10 tackles, including a 22-tackle performance at Wisconsin. Senior Justin Isom resumes his role at strong safety after finishing third on the team in tackles. Isom had team highs in passes defensed with eight and interceptions with three last year. Junior Ukee Dozier and sophomore Ken Williams will apply the pressure on opposing receivers as returning cornerbacks. Dozier is a two-year starter who has great stop-and-start speed and helped Minnesota finish first in the Big Ten in passing defense (178.6 ypg).Williams filled in for an injured Lehan mid-way through the season and did an admirable job against some of the conference ’s best wideouts. Williams has good technique and excels at preventing yards after the catch. Justin Fraley will compete for time at strong safety after making the switch from linebacker last season. Fraley finished seventh on the team with 42 tackles. Mike Wojciechowski earned his second letter last season in the secondary and will work at cornerback after playing primarily in nickel situations in 2002. Junior Johnathan Richmond, sophomore Quentin White and redshirt freshman Trumaine Banks will also be in the mix for playing time in the defensive backfield.

NORTHWESTERN

HEAD COACH: RANDY WALKER

If the offense can avoid injuries, it should be potent. The running backs are tremendous with the under publicized Jason Wright and Noah Herron forming a solid 1-2 punch. The passing game will be fine if a deep threat emerges. The line has to replace two stars, but should be fine with a little bit of time. Quarterbacks - Brett Basanez, Soph. - Considering he was a freshman and had to suffer through a broken leg, Basanez had decent season. He not only showed toughness, but also resolve fighting through all of the adversity. By the end of the season, things started to come around throwing for 368 yards against Illinois. He has some mobility to go along with his good arm rushing for 96 yards and four touchdowns. Top Backups Alexander Webb, RFr. - Webb was granted medical hardship after suffering a liver injury in the TCU game. He doesn't have the passing skills of Basanez, but he can move. Derell Jenkins, Soph. - Jenkins saw time last season, but was miserable throwing the ball going 0 for 5 with two interceptions. He's a running quarterback.

Running Backs - Jason Wright, Sr. - Northwestern had such a miserable 2002 season that Wright's outstanding performance was overlooked. He was fourth in the country in all-purpose yards as a great kickoff return man and a solid rusher. The 210-pound senior rushed for 1,234 yards and 12 touchdowns and caught 27 passes for 266 yards. He can block as well. Top Backups Noah Herron, Jr. - Another solid all-purpose back, Herron was second on the team with 365 yards and seven scores averaging 5.5 yards per carry. At 230 pounds, he combines power with nice speed. Terrell Jordan, Soph. - A decent special teams player, the speedy Jordan will see more carries this season.

Receivers - Kunle Patrick, Sr. - The leading returning receiver, Patrick comes into 2003 with a nation's best 34-game catch streak. He's a big slot receiver starting at the Y. Ashton Aikens, Jr. - The 6-2, 200 pound Aiken caught eight passes for 72 yards and a score last season. He'll play on the outside needing to stretch teams deep. Mark Philmore, Soph. - Philmore isn't big, but he's a quick possession receiver. He was third on the team with 31 catches for 245 yards averaging 7.9 yards per grab. He'll start at the X. - Tight end Ray Bogenrief, Sr. - The former defensive end will move over to the offense to give the Wildcats a big pass catcher. He'll mostly be used as a blocker to start. Top Backups- Brandon Horn, Soph. - At 6-1 and 210 pounds, Horn adds more size to the X than Philmore. He caught six passes for 72 yards and a score last year. Roger Jordan, Sr. - He's a big receiver at 6-3 and 215 pounds. He caught 23 passes for 207 pounds and will back up Aikens on the Z. Joe Wohlscheid, Jr. - At 280 pounds, Wohlscheid is essentially another tackle. He only caught three passes last year.

Offensive Line - Tackle Zach Strief, Soph. - Zach became a top player by the end of his freshman season. At 6-7 ad 335 pounds, he's the team's biggest lineman and will once again start on the right side. Guard Bill Newton, Jr. - At 310 pounds, Newton is a big replacement for all-star Jeff Roehl. He's the one major question mark on what should be a solid line. Center Carl Matejka, Sr. - Matejka can play guard, but he'll get the unenviable task of trying to replace the production of All-Big Ten center Austin King. At 315 pounds, he's big, but has to avoid the injury bug that bit him last year. - Guard Matt Ulrich, Jr. - One of Northwestern's rising stars, the 305-pound Ulrich will start again at left guard. He'll end up being the rock of the line. Tackle Trai Essex, Jr. - It took a little while, but Essex became a fine player by the end of last season overcoming the switch from tight end and an ankle injury. He's the lightest player on the line at 280 pounds. Top Backups - T Greg Lutzen, Soph. - Filling in when injuries hit, Lutzen made 21 tackles in ten games as a defensive end. At 270 pounds, he's a nice sized player experimenting on offense G Donnie Baskin, Jr. - The 295-pound Baskin will push for time at left guard behind Ulrich. C Jim Devine, RFr. - If Devine shows he can become a decent center, it might allow the coaching staff to move Matejka to guard.

The potential is there for this defense to be a whole bunch better. After giving up 41 points and close to 500 yards per game, it can't be any worse. The return of Pat Durr and Ryan Peterson from injury should do wonders for the run defense. Production from the corners has to improve and a pass rush of any kind would be nice. Defensive Line Projected Starters - Defensive end David Thompson, Soph. - Thompson saw the most time of any of the candidates at right end and making 73 tackles, but he couldn't get to the quarterback. Defensive tackle Luis Castillo, Jr. - Castillo started last season making 84 tackles. As productive as he was, the starting job isn't assured as the team is looking for more options on the inside. Defensive tackle Colby Clark, Jr. - The best tackle on the team, the 285-pound Clark has started 23 straight games and will be the anchor. He made 81 tackles and was solid at getting into the backfield with 6.5 tackles for loss. Defensive end Loren Howard, Soph. - One of Northwestern's only pass rushing threats on the line, the 270-pound Howard is expected to become a top playmaker coming off a 13.5 tackle-for-loss season. Top Backups DE DeMaris Wilson, Soph. - In the hunt for time at right end, Wilson, played in six games making nine tackles last year. DT Barry Cofield, Soph. - Cofield will push Castillo for time at left tackle. He made 36 tackles last year and is progressing into a fine player.

Linebackers - Tim McGarigle, Soph. - The 215-pound sophomore will start again on the weak side coming off a 98 tackle season. As one of the team's more talented prospects, McGarigle is expected to grow into a top Big Ten linebacker. - Pat Durr, Sr. - Considered one of the top linebackers going into the 2002 Big Ten season, Durr injured his knee at the beginning of the first game and was knocked out for the year. He's supposed to be back at 100% by fall giving the Wildcats more talent, and more leadership, to the defense. John Pickens, Jr. - Pickens was second on the team in tackles with 101. The 235-pound junior struggled at times, but should be far stronger with Durr coming back in the middle. Top Backups Doug Szymul, Sr. - Filling in for the injured Durr, Szymul led the team with 106 tackles. He's a bit small for the middle and not necessarily fast enough for the outside, but he'll find time somewhere. Ryan Peterson, Jr. - He's out for spring ball trying to get healthy, but he's expected to come back and be a top producer after making 19 tackles in only four games last year.

Secondary - Cornerback Marquice Cole, Soph. - Cole will get the first look on the left side. He's not as big as the other options at corner, but he's active and quick. He didn't see much time last season so he'll have to establish himself in early practices. - Strong safety Dominique Price, Jr. - With 68 tackles, Price made several plays, but failed to do much against the pass. He's a big hitter with nice size and a dominating presence against the run. Free safety Torri Stuckey, Sr. - Stuckey brings senior leadership to the secondary. He made 50 tackles and led the team with nine broken up passes Cornerback Jeff Backes, Soph. - After moving over from running back, Backes will get the first look at right corner. If someone else steps up and becomes a top player, Backes could move back to the offensive side, but he has looked great at times in spring ball. Top Backups - Free safety Louis Ayeni, Sr. -The former wide receiver moved to safety towards the end of last season and made six tackles. He'll play behind Stuckey. - Cornerback Herschel Henderson, Jr. - Henderson started most of last season on the right side making 48 tackles and making an interception. He's not the best corner Northwestern has, but he's a big player that might match up well with bigger receivers. Special Teams - Placekicker Slade Larscheid, RFr. - If Brian Huffman doesn't handle all of the kicking duties, Larscheid and Joel Howells will push for the placekicking job. Punter Brian Huffman, Jr. - One of the Big Ten's better punters, Huffman averaged 41.5 yards per kick and put 14 inside of the 20. An accomplished high school field goal kicker, he might take over David Wasielweski's placekicking job.

OHIO STATE

HEAD COACH: JIM TRESSEL

All eleven starters return to an offense that was maddeningly frustrating at times, powerful at others, and always, always clutch. The running game will be among the best in the country with three great backs running behind a senior filled offensive line. The passing game might not be high-octane, but it's effective. Quarterbacks - Craig Krenzel, Sr. - He's not going to be an NFL star and he won't wow anyone with his passing ability, but there isn't a better winner in college football than Craig Krenzel. Few have his ability to make the big play in the clutch and few are as accurate from short to medium range. You don't want a team full Krenzels, but you sure want one leading an offense with a ton of talented players. Top Backups Scott McMullen, Sr. - A big, strong, capable backup, McMullen has seen plenty of action over his career and completed 25 of 31 passes in five games last season. If something happens to Krenzel, the Buckeyes are hardly in trouble. Justin Zwick, RFr. - One of the top rated quarterback recruits of 2002, Zwick is a pro-style passer who needs to see a little bit of playing time this season getting groomed for 2004. He looks ready to roll now throwing for 217 yards and four touchdowns in the spring game.

Running Backs - Maurice Clarett, Soph. - If Clarett can somehow stay healthy, he'll be in the hunt for the Heisman all season long. One of the best goal line runners in the country, Clarett is deadly inside the ten-yard line. The team isn't afraid to make him a workhorse continuously feeding him the ball against Washington State. As banged up as he was last season, he still rushed for 1,237 yards and 16 scores. He's a decent, but not outstanding, receiver out of the backfield. - Fullback Branden Joe, Sr. - When the Buckeyes use a fullback, Joe is the man. A true blocker, the 245-pound senior only carried the ball once last season. Top Backups - Lydell Ross, Jr. - A great option behind Clarett, Ross was second on the team with 619 yards and six touchdown runs. He doesn't have the moves that Clarett has, but he'll see plenty of carries as the coaching staff wants to make sure No. 13 stays healthy. Maurice Hall, Jr. - A clutch runner, Hall scored the winning touchdowns against Illinois and Michigan. Used more as a kick returner than a running back, he's a valuable number three option behind Clarett and Ross. - Brandon Schnittker, Soph. - Schnittker is a big player can catch the ball as well as block from his fullback slot.

Receivers - Michael Jenkins, Sr. - One of the best receivers in America, Jenkins should be in the NFL right now. Instead, the 6-5 senior returns to be the team's deadly deep threat and go-to receiver coming off a 61 catch, 1,076-yard and six touchdown season. He's a dangerous combination of speed and strength. Chris Gamble, Jr. - Gamble needs to spend most of his time on the defensive side, but he's too talented not to keep using as a receiver. He was second on the team with 31 catches for 499 yards, but surprisingly didn't catch a touchdown pass. With his athleticism, he's once again going to be a scary receiver on the other side of Jenkins. - Tight end Ben Hartsock, Sr. - The 264-pound Hartsock has the potential to be a top pro prospect with his blocking ability and outstanding hands. He caught 17 passes for 137 yards and two touchdowns last season. Top Backups - Drew Carter, Sr. - The 6-4 Carter can fly and needs to be more of a factor this season behind Jenkins at split end. He caught ten passes for 147 yards last year. Bam Childress, Jr. - With Gamble being counted on more and more on the defensive side, Childress needs to be a playmaker this season. He played in 13 games last year, but he only caught four passes for 47 yards. He's too quick not to be a big player and if this spring was any indication, he'll finally live up to the hype. Ryan Hamby, Soph. - One of several strong tight end options behind Hartsock, Hamby will get the first look in the rotation after playing in every game last year and catching two passes with one for a touchdown. He has great speed for a tight end. Jason Caldwell and Redgie Arden will also be used in two tight end sets.

Offensive Line - Tackle Ivan Douglas, Sr. - Douglas came back last year after missing 2001 with a lung problem to be a fixture at left tackle. He showed he can start on the right side as well. - Guard Adrien Clarke, Sr. - Clarke is the rock of the line with the most experience. He's been the team's most important blocker at times. When the running game needs a key block up the middle, it goes behind the 355-pound mauler. Center Alex Stepanovich, Sr. - Versatile enough to move to guard or tackle, he'll be one of the better centers in America and a Rimington candidate with great size and nice feet. Guard Bryce Bishop, Sr. - Even though he won't win too many awards, Bishop will be a top player on the right side coming off a great 2002 season. He's a punishing run blocker. Tackle Shane Olivea, Sr. - The 310-pound Olivea is the star of the line. He's great at getting to the outside and has the feet to handle most speed rushers. The great run blocking Olivea should be in the hunt for All-America honors. Top Backups - T Rob Sims, Soph. - Saw spot starting duty last season and can play anywhere on the line. He'll start the season behind Douglas on the left side. C Nick Mangold, Soph. - considered one of the stars of the future at center, Mangold will play a key role behind Stepanovich. - T Mike Kne, Jr. - Kne has gotten much bigger over the past season bulking up to 300 pounds. After working his tail off, or on, he'll become a top backup behind Olivea on the right side.

The defense bent, but hardly ever broke last season. It might be dangerous to play with fire again with several new replacements in the back seven. Fortunately, the defensive line is awesome with, potentially, the best pair of ends in the country. Leaders need to be found to replace Matt Wilhelm and Mike Doss. Defensive Line -Defensive end Simon Fraser, Jr. - An outstanding athlete, Fraser will take over on the left end with Darrion Scott moving to the middle, He's not just tough, he's smart getting nominated as an Academic All-American. With five sacks last season in a reserve role, he's expected to flourish as a starter. Defensive tackle Darrion Scott, Sr. - The 271-pound senior led the team with 8.5 sacks and finished with 43 tackles on the end. He'll move inside to take the place of Kenny Peterson and should be an All-Big Ten performer. Defensive tackle Tim Anderson, Sr. - One of the best tackles in America, Anderson isn't a huge brick wall at 289 pounds, but he's the one the rest of the line revolves around. His stats will never be huge, but he's the type of player every defensive coach would love to have. Defensive end Will Smith, Sr. - The 250-pound Smith is a pass rushing terror and also strong against the run with 59 tackles last season. He should be in the mix for All-Big Ten and All-America honors. Top Backups - DT Marcus Green, Soph. - At 300 pounds, Green provides more bulk on the inside and is expected to be a top run stopper. He saw time in every game last year making two tackles. - DE Mike Kudla, Soph. - Kudla made a nice impact as a true freshman playing in every game and making 12 tackles. He'll be a top reserve behind Smith.

Linebackers - Robert Reynolds, Sr. - The unsung player on the defense, Reynolds is a great all-around player on the strong side. He's always around the ball using his great speed. He finished with 62 tackles last season. - Fred Pagac, Sr. - He hasn't been able to stay healthy throughout his career, but he'll still get the first look at replacing Matt Wilhelm in the middle. Pagac is an experienced player, but he's keeping the seat warm for Mike D'Andrea. A.J. Hawk, Soph. - Hawk is one of the rising stars n the defense. He always seemed to make things happen when he got a chance to play behind Cie Grant finishing with 26 tackles, a sack and two interceptions. Starting on the weak side, he'll be a top playmaker. Top Backups Mike D'Andrea, Soph. - D'Andrea was a fine backup as a true freshman making seven tackles and showed flashes of greatness. He's a big linebacker with decent speed and wonderful instincts. At some point, he'll take over the starting job in the middle. Bobby Carpenter, Soph. - Carpenter will once again backup Reynolds on the strong side after finishing with 12 tackles last season. He's a smart player and will be a reliable reserve.

Secondary - Cornerback Dustin Fox, Jr. - Fox hits like a safety, but he also covers like one. He might move to his natural safety position if another corner emerges, but Fox isn't all that bad on the outside breaking up 14 passes and intercepting three. He was the third leading tackler on the team making 84 tackles. - Free safety Will Allen, Sr. - Last year's nickel back will start at free safety replacing Donnie Nickey. Allen had problems with a shoulder injury, but he was still able to make 32 tackles pick off two passes. Strong safety Tyler Everett, Soph. - Forget about replacing Mike Doss, it can't be done. Everett is a little bit bigger than Doss, but the Buckeyes are going to need to find leadership and big hitting ability that No. 2 provided. Everett saw a decent amount of time making 12 tackles and picking off a pass against Washington State. - Cornerback Chris Gamble, Jr. - Gamble's raw athleticism was enough to all but shut down Andre Johnson in the Fiesta Bowl. Potentially the best cornerback in college football, he still needs work on his overall technique. Even though he was raw, he picked off four passes last season and finished with 24 tackles. Quarterbacks are going to avoid him like the plague. Top Backups - Cornerback E.J. Underwood, Soph. - His development is a key since the Buckeyes would love for him to develop into a shut down corner to give the secondary more options. The 6-1 Underwood looked strong last season as he made 24 tackles and broke up six passes. Strong Safety Nate Salley, Soph. - A huge corner, the 6-3 Salley hits like a safety and could become a factor at corner or behind Everett at strong safety. Special Teams - Placekicker Mike Nugent, Jr. - One of the best kickers in America, Nugent nailed 25 of 28 field goals showing a huge leg going 10 of 12 from beyond forty yards. He didn't miss a field goal until 12th game of last year. - Punter B.J. Sander, Sr. - Normally the loss of an All-American line Andy Groom would be a killer, but Sander can kick. He averaged 41.9 yards per kick as a starter in 2000.

PENN STATE

HEAD COACH: JOE PATERNO

It'll be impossible to replace Heisman-caliber running back Larry Johnson, first-round draft pick receiver Bryant Johnson and almost the entire offensive line. Things aren't hopeless as the line will end up being fine with some time and the receiving corps has weapons. The running game is another story with little to no pop among the tailbacks. The stars are under center as Zack Mills and Michael Robinson form one of the better quarterbacking tandems in the Big Ten. Quarterbacks - Zack Mills, Jr. - Very, very quietly, Mills had a great 2002 season throwing for 2,417 yards and 17 touchdowns while rushing for 201 yards and three scores. He has outstanding mobility and is just as dangerous throwing on the run as he is in the pocket. On a team that lost more big-time stars than any other top program, Mills will be the leader that'll have to be the rock through any adversity. Paterno has said that Mills is the unquestioned starter. Top Backups - Michael Robinson, Soph. - Robinson made a huge splash as a nearly unstoppable rushing threat behind Johnson averaging 5.3 yards per carry running for 263 yards and six touchdowns. He can also play receiver seeing time in the slot. This year he'll be the backup quarterback with great size, wonderful moves and a big arm. - Chris Ganter, Soph. - The clear number three and holder for kicks, Ganter adds a surprise weapon able to throw for two-point conversions and can run the fake on field goals. He has good mobility and a nice arm.

Running Backs - Mike Gasparanto, Jr. - Gasparanto is listed as the number one back on the depth chart, but it's written in pencil. He emerged as a decent backup running back rushing for 158 yards and a touchdown and catching two passes for 62 yards. - Sean McHugh, Sr. - McHugh became a great all-around fullback and a great blocker paving the way for Johnson. He rushed for 46 yards and three touchdowns on 20 carries. Top Backups - Ricky Upton, Sr. - He's a little bit bigger and a better blocker than Gasperanto. He'll get every chance to win the starting job coming off season as a reserve rushing for 37 yards and a touchdown. - Tim Shaw, Soph. - Shaw is a big and fast back ready to make an impact. He averaged 4.2 yards per carry rushing for 59 yards. - Donnie Johnson, RFr. - He's being given every chance to win the starting tailback job after leading the White team with 34 yards in the Spring Game. The 6-0, 207-pounder isn't as big as Upton or Shaw, but he might be the most talented player of the bunch. - Paul Jefferson, Sr. - As good as McHugh is, Jefferson might end up being the starting fullback before the season is over. He's a solid blocker and a great pass catcher.

Receivers - Tony Johnson, Sr. - It'll be up to the 5-11 Johnson to step into the role as the team's number one receiver coming off a 34 catch season. He's a big, physical player with good all-around skills and a ton of experience. Johnson, the brother of former star running back Larry, will be one of the team's leaders and top kickoff returners. - Kinta Palmer, Soph. - Palmer is a 6-4 target with good speed and excellent hands. Even though he only made one catch last year, he'll be asked to be one of the new stars in the passing attack - Tight end Casey Williams, Sr. - Williams became a decent target as last season went on making 24 catches for 256 yards and two touchdowns. He's not a tall player at only 6-0, but he finds ways to get open. Top Backups - Gerald Smith, Jr. - One of the most experienced returning wideouts, Smith is coming off an 11-catch season to backup Johnson at split end. He used to play defensive back before turning into a sure-handed receiver. - Ernie Terrell, Soph. - Terrell could be the new star in the receiving corps with great size and outstanding speed. He's 6-3 and a star on the Penn State track team running the 60 in 6.76 and 400 in 46.63. - Mike Lukac, Sr. - Lukac is a bigger, stronger tight end than Williams. While not quite the receiver Williams is, Lukac is excellent around the goal line catching seven passes for 39 yards and four touchdowns.

Offensive Line - Tackle Chris McKelvy, Sr. - McKelvy started eight games at both guard and tackle last year finishing at left guard as one of the better players on the line. He'll move back outside to tackle as the team's anchor and most experienced lineman. He's 327 pounds and has to fight to stay that light. - Guard E.Z. Smith, Soph. - Smith has a little bit of experience starting six games at guard. He had problems with his shoulder and missed most of spring ball because of it, but he should be fine by the start of the season. If not, Scott Davis could be the starter here. - Center David Costlow, Sr. - This could be the sore spot of the offensive line with the least returning experience. Costlow is a 280-pound senior with a great motor and good work ethic. - Guard Tyler Reed, Soph. - One of the rising stars on the line, the 311-pound Reed was a solid backup in practices last year. He has a great combination of size, quickness and skills at right guard. - Tackle Damone Jones, Sr. - The 310-pound Jones saw a little bit of playing time last season behind Gus Felder at left tackle. He'll get the start on the right side with McKelvy playing on the left. Top Backups - T John Wilson, Soph. - At 313 pounds, Wilson is one of the bigger backups. He'll start the season behind Jones on the right side. - G Scott Davis, Jr. - Smith might be an emerging star, but Davis is turning out to be a strong prospect as well. He'll be in the mix for the starting spot at left guard - C Nick Marmow, Jr. - Marmow is a little bit bigger than Costlow and will give a huge push for the starting job.

On the defense, there's experience and production returning, but almost all the star power of last year is gone. With several great young athletes, the defense should eventually be decent with a little work to figure out the right combinations. Until then, the linebacking corps will have to carry the load with several excellent prospects. Defensive Line - Defensive end John Bronson, Jr. - The unknown starter, Bronson will be the only returning holdover from last year's outstanding starting front four. The 266-pound junior made 41 tackles and four sacks improving as the year went on. - Defensive tackle Tamba Hali, Soph. - The 271-pound sophomore saw a little bit of action as a true freshman making ten tackles. He needs to come through as a star on the inside. Defensive tackle Levi Brown, RFr. - Brown gives the line some much needed size at 312 pounds. He has a ton of raw talent, but it's going to a take a little while before he comes close to being as productive as Jimmy Kennedy and Anthony Adams were. - Defensive end Sam Ruhe, Jr. - It'll be a battle all year long for the starting job on the right side. Ruhe has a little more size than Jeremiah Davis and a great deal of experience. He played in every game before missing last year with a neck injury. Top Backups - DT Jason Robinson, Jr. - Robinson is neck-and-neck with Brown for the starting right tackle job. He's not as big as Brown, but he's a little bit quicker. - DT Scott Paxson, Soph. - The former outside linebacker is being moved to the line to add some more athleticism. He bulked up and could become a factor at either tackle or end. - DE Matt Rice, Soph. - He's not Michael Haynes, but he has some of the same moves. With his potential, he'll see plenty of action behind Bronson.

Linebackers - Deryck Toles, Sr. - He's not all that big at 213 pounds, but he packs a wallop on the outside. Even though he missed a time with a sprained ankle, he still made 32 tackles. One of the best athletes among the starting linebackers, he needs to stay on the field. - Gino Capone, Sr. - A rock in the middle, Capone turned in an All-Big performance making 86 tackle and two sacks even though he missed the last three games with a shoulder problem. With his instincts, he's always around the ball and always making plays. - Derek Wake, Jr. - Wake came off a torn knee to turn in a great season making 51 tackles and ten tackles for loss. He's a big player and should contend for all-star honors if he's able to hold off Jimi Mitchell for the job. Top Backups - LaMar Stewart, Jr. - Stewart started most of last year even though he had problems with a shoulder injury. He made 62 tackles, but is in a battle with T.C. Cosby for the backup job behind Toles. - Jimi Mitchell, Jr. - He's a safety playing linebacker adding speed and athleticism to the corps. He'll battle on the outside with J.R. Zwierzynski for playing time on the outside. - Andy Ryland, Sr. - The former walk-on became a player last year making 23 tackles on the inside. He'll see time behind Capone.

Secondary - Cornerback Rich Gardner, Sr. - Gardner has turned into a decent corner and a solid hitter with 64 stops and returned two interceptions for touchdowns. With an inexperienced group of defensive backs, Gardner will have to shine as one of Penn State's most experienced player in the secondary. - Hero Calvin Lowery, Jr. - Lowery was on his way to a decent freshman season before breaking his leg. He's a smart player with great all-around talent and should mature into a solid producer. - Free safety Andrew Guman, Jr. - The 6-3 Guman is a big player with a little bit of experience. He has some huge shoes to fill needing to replace the production of unsung star Shawn Mayer. - Cornerback Alan Zemaitis, Soph. - After mostly playing on special teams, Zemaitis will get the first look at right corner. At 6-2, he's a big cover corner, but he's still learning how to play the position. Top Backups - Hero Chris Harrell, Sr. - Even if he doesn't end up taking over the starting job over Lowery, he'll still see plenty of action. He filled in when Yaacov Yisrael went down and made 91 tackles getting better and better as the season went on. Cornerback Gio Vendemia, Soph. - Vendemia won't win the starting job over Gardner, but he'll see plenty of time as one of the rising stars in the secondary. - Cornerback Maurice Humphrey, Soph. - By the time the season starts, he could be the main backup by Humphrey and is expected to be one of the top players very soon. - Hero Yaacov Yisrael, Sr. - He was one of the stars of the defensive backfield before tearing his ACL. It will still take a little while before he comes back at 100%, but he's scheduled to be ready to be a productive player in the secondary at some point this year.

PURDUE

HEAD COACH: JOE TILLER

Purdue has some of the most dangerous skill players in college football with two talented quarterbacks, three solid running backs and a sensational trio of receivers. All that talent will go to waste if the line can't replace several starters and find a few backups. Quarterbacks Kyle Orton, Jr. - It wasn't that Orton was bad last season, he did throw for 2,257 yards and 13 touchdowns, but he didn't provide the spark that Brandon Kirsch gave the team. That all changed in the Sun Bowl with an MVP performance against Washington throwing for 283 yards and two touchdowns looking like the quarterback that Purdue coaches have been looking for since Drew Brees graduated. He's a big player with a good arm and the experience to run the Tiller offense. Top Backups - Brandon Kirsch, Soph. - A better rushing option than Orton, Kirsch ran for 423 yards and three touchdowns in limited duty. He started in four games as a true freshman with his best performance coming against Iowa in relief of Orton. While he might not have the starting job, Kirsch is as good a backup as any Big Ten team has.

Running Backs - Joey Harris, Sr. - Joe Tiller wanted to run the ball more last season and Harris became the star to make it happen. Brandon Jones and Montrell Lowe had a lot to do with the new balance to the offense, but Harris was the workhorse rushing for 1.115 yards and eight touchdowns. A strong player that's always moving forward, he's a positive yardage back that combines power with decent quickness. He can catch a little bit too making 12 grabs for 185 yards and a score last season. Top Backups - Brandon Jones, Soph. - Jones is a perfect player to back up Harris. At 225 pounds, he's a powerful back that can kill defenses that are softened up by Harris. Jones averaged 5.3 yards per carry rushing for 668 yards and three scores. He also caught eight passes for 130 yards and two touchdowns. - Jerod Void, Soph. - Purdue doesn't really use a fullback, but the 204-pound Void can be used as one. A great goal line runner, Void only carried the ball ten times for 156 yards, but he scored ten times.

Receivers - John Standeford, Sr. - One the premier home run hitters in college football, Standeford averaged 17.4 yards per catch last season on 75 grabs. The 6-4 senior is fast, clutch and has a nose for the goal line with 13 touchdown catches last season and 23 for his career. Taylor Stubblefield, Jr.. - Stubblefield led the Boilermakers with 77 catches last season, but he didn't score. While not necessarily a possession receiver, he's a reliable pass catcher. What's most impressive is that he put up these numbers last year after missing the first three games with a broken skull. - Ray Williams, Soph. - Another big receiver in the mix. Williams caught eight passes averaging 17.6 yards per grab. At 6-2 and 188 pound with legitimate 4.4 speed, he should be one of Purdue's stars for years to come. He holds the New Jersey state high school record in the indoor 400 meters. - Tight end Charles Davis, Soph. - The returning starter caught 12 passes for 102 yards. While he wasn't much of a factor in the passing game, he was a key cog as a run blocker and will have a bigger role this season with so many new offensive linemen. Top Backups Anthony Chambers, Sr. - One of Purdue's top kick returners, Chambers was also a factor in the passing game finishing third on the team with 28 catches for 228 yards and two touchdowns. Andre Chattams, RFr. - A fantastic athlete with great track skills, Chattams is expected to play a huge role in the passing game backing up Standeford. - Jamaal Wilson, Sr. - The 6-3 Wilson caught three passes as a reserve. He'll back up Williams. - Jeff Bennett, Soph. - Bennett started two games and didn't catch a pass. He's a decent blocker and will back up Davis at tight end.

Offensive Line - Tackle David Owen, Jr. - A converted tight end, Owen will get the first look on the left side at tackle. He has also seen time on special teams and at defensive end, but he might have finally found a home. - Guard Matt Turner, Soph. - One of Purdue's rising stars, Turner can play center or guard. He grew into a good player last season and should be even better with more reps at guard. There won't be a problem learning on the job as he's an Academic All-Big Ten performer. - Center Nick Hardwick, Sr. - It's been a long trip for Hardwick getting the starting gig in the middle starting off as a defensive tackle before moving to guard before moving into the middle. Most of his experience came as a guard last season, but he did start a bit at center. - Guard Tyler Moore, Jr. - A two-time Academic All-Big Ten performer, Moore has been a reserve on the line. He'll get the first look at right guard. - Tackle Kelly Butler, Jr. - Purdue's biggest and best lineman, the 6-8 and 315 pound right tackle got better and better as last season went on. As the most experienced returning lineman, he'll need to be the anchor. Top Backups - C Nick Pilipauskis, Sr. - With three appearances as a reserve, that makes Pilipauskis one of Purdue's most experienced backups. - OT Ryan Davis, Soph. - Davis began his career as a defensive end, but was moved to the offensive side late last season. He has fantastic quickness for a tackle and could end up playing a big role.

On defense, there's not a whole bunch of depth, but the starters should be excellent. The line can get to the quarterback with consistency, while the linebacking corps, along with safety Stuart Schweigert, are excellent against the run. Once again though, there can't be a slew of injuries or there will be some major problems. Defensive Line - Defensive end Shaun Phillips, Sr. - An outstanding pass rusher, the 260-pound Phillips makes things happens by getting into the backfield, forcing fumbles, and generally disrupting things. Phillips is great at breaking up passes with the athleticism of a linebacker. - Defensive tackle Craig Terrill, Sr. - One of the best tackles in the Big Ten at getting into the backfield, Terrill has made 12 sacks and 20 tackles for loss so far. He's not bad against the run, but his strength is in using his quickness against slower offensive linemen. Defensive tackle Brent Grover Jr., Soph. - A star as a redshirt freshman, Grover made 33 tackles and four tackles for loss after bulking up and making the successful conversion from linebacker. - Defensive end Kevin Nesfield, Sr. - Nesfield is a far better player going into this year than he was last year at this time as evidenced by his Most Improved Award. He's a good pass rusher and takes advantage of all the blocking schemes focusing on Phillips. Top Backups - DT Brandon Villarreal, Soph. - A reserve player seeing time in almost every game last season, the 287-pound Villarreal made 33 tackles as a key cog inside. - DE Vedran Dzolovic, Sr. - An active end, Dzolovic made 23 tackles last season and has proven to be a top reserve. He can even start in a pinch. - DT Dontrey Flemings, Soph. - He didn't do much as a reserve last season, but he could play a bigger role as one of Purdue's biggest linemen.

Linebackers - Landon Johnson, Sr. - Johnson was second on the team last season with 90 tackles and should be in the running for the Butkus Award this year. With 243 tackles, seven sacks and 20.5 tackles for loss in his career, he has the past production and the experience to be one of the Big Ten's best on the outside this season. He'll start on the weak side. - Niko Koutouvides, Sr. - The average college football fan wouldn't have a clue who Koutouvides is. The unsung star led the Boilermakers in the middle last season with 121 tackles and 11.5 tackles for loss. As great as he is against the run, he's also one of the better middle linebackers in America in pass coverage. - Gilbert Gardner, Sr. - Few players have Gardner's motor. After breaking his leg in 2001, Gardner came on to become a great backup last season making 57 tackles. Top Backups - Jon Goldsberry, Jr. - More of a special teams player so far, Goldsberry was also used as a goal line fullback and a reserve linebacker finishing the season with 25 tackles. He'll get a look as the backup on the inside. - Jason Leimberger, Soph. - He made seven tackles as a reserve and will see time on the outside and special teams this season.

Secondary - Cornerback Jacques Reeves, Sr. - The 6-1, 195-pound Reeves is a big, physical corner who has grown into a solid player. He doesn't make too many tackles used as a lock down corner, but he can make the play in the open field. - Free safety Stuart Schweigert, Sr. - One of the best safeties in college football, Schweigert had a bit of a down season in 2002 compared to the ridiculously high standard he set over his first two years. A big player with great range, he's made 272 tackles and 13 interceptions in his career. Used a little more on the blitz, he made five tackles for loss. Strong safety Deaunte Ferrell, Sr. - Mostly a reserve player, Ferrell made 17 tackles last season. He has the speed and quickness to be one of Purdue's top kick returners, but now he has to become a factor in the secondary. - Cornerback Antwaun Rogers, Jr. - Rogers has become a top playmaking corner flourishing on the other side of Reeves. He broke up 13 passes last season with two interceptions, and he's not afraid to get his nose dirty with 109 tackles over the last two seasons. At 6-2, he gives Purdue another big corner. Top Backups - Strong safety Torry Vogel, Sr. -The former walk-on might not be the best defensive back, but he's a nice fill in when necessary. He's more of an undersized linebacker playing safety making 11 tackles last season. - Cornerback Sean Petty, Soph - Mostly a special teams player, Petty will back up Reeves on the outside and made eight tackles.

WISCONSIN

HEAD COACH: BARRY ALAVAREZ

With a statue at quarterback now, the offense will have to be a bit more conventional. The Badgers will still run the ball with star Anthony Davis to give the ball too, but the main job will be to protect senior quarterback Jim Sorgi so he can get the ball to his fantastic receiving corps. Quarterbacks - Jim Sorgi, Sr. - When Brooks Bollinger went down with injuries, Sorgi stepped in. The 6-5 pure passer doesn't provide the running element Bollinger did, but he's a better passer. With five starts, Sorgi has a little bit of experience throwing for 536 yards and a touchdown. Projected Backups Matt Schabert, Jr. - Schabert has seen a little bit of time and will be the main backup. He has a little bit of mobility, but he's more of a pure passer completing 13 of 15 passes for 11 yards and a touchdown in the spring game. John Stocco, RFr. - He might not have much experience, but he's a talented player with tremendous raw skills. He'll push Schabert for the backup job this summer. Devin Hollins, Soph. - Hollins was a top scout team quarterback last year. He adds more of a rushing element to the mix.

Running Backs - Anthony Davis, Jr. - Davis hasn't received the acclaim that he deserves. All he's done is lead the nation in total rushing yards (3,021) over the last two seasons coming off another tremendous year. He's only 5-8 and 194 pounds, but he's able to withstand a pounding. It's asking a lot for him to carry the ball 300 times again, so he'll need help. Matt Bernstein, Soph. - Bernstein returns with a year of experience after starting nine times as a freshman. The 270-pounder is turning into a sensational blocking back and can carry it goal line as well. Projected Backups Dwayne Smith, Soph. - The 223-pound sophomore adds a bit more power to the mix after rushing for 552 yards and six touchdowns last year. With the Badgers going to more of a two-back set, he could be even more of a factor in the offense. Jerone Pettus, Jr. - Pettus is a Davis clone and is good enough to carry the load if Davis or Smith have problems. He ran for 26 yards last season in a limited role. Greg Root, Soph. - The former linebacker is still learning how to be a fullback. He isn't as bit as Bernstein, but he's a good sized player at 255 pounds.

Receivers - Lee Evans, Sr. - Evans returns from the knee injury that sidelined him all of last year. After almost leaving for the NFL Draft after a sensational junior year, he blew out his knee in the 2002 spring game. He appears to be back at 100% giving an already great group of receivers a go-to superstar. He set the Big Ten record with 1,545 yards in 2001. Brandon Williams, Soph. - Williams started his career as a running back, but became a key receiver catching 52 passes as a true freshman for 663 yards and three touchdowns. He showed outstanding moves in the open field and always seemed able to find the seems. Tight end Tony Paciotti, Jr. - Paciotti will split time with Bob Docherty again at tight end. After Docherty got hurt, Paciotti took over the job. He isn't much of a receiver, but he's a strong blocker. Projected Backups Jonathan Orr, Soph. - The team's next great receiver, the 6-3 Orr led the Badgers with 842 yards and eight touchdowns picking up the slack after Evans went down. He's a big-time playmaker averaging 17.9 yards per catch. With Evans back, he'll be one of the best backups in the nation. Darrin Charles, Jr. The 6-6 junior started to come into his own as the season went on finishing with a solid game against Colorado. With decent hands, the junior caught 25 passes for 323 yards and two touchdowns. Bob Docherty, Jr. - Docherty was the team's starting tight end last year before getting knocked out with injuries. He made ten catches for 118 yards and a touchdown.

Offensive Line - Tackle Morgan Davis, Jr. - One of the UW's big losses is left tackle Ben Johnson. It'll be up to the 318-pound Davis to take over. David is big and has improved by leaps and bounds, but he's going to be stronger against the run than he will against the quicker ends. The 318 pounder have average feet at best. Guard Dan Boenning, Jr. - Raiola might be turning into the star of the line, but Boenning could be the most solid player on the front wall. He's 303 pounds with two years of starting experience on the interior. Center Donovan Raiola, Soph. - Center Al Johnson was the best player on the line last year, but Raiola, brother of former Nebraska star and current Detroit Lion, Dominic, should turn out to be just fine. He played a little bit at quart last year with one start. Raiola took over the role as the leader of the line this spring. Guard Jonathan Clinkscale, Jr. - Clinkscale didn't get a whole bunch of credit with Al and Ben Johnson getting all the headlines, but he turned in a very steady season. He should be a force in the running game. Tackle Mike Lorenz, Soph. - Lorenz has grown into a big tackle replacing Jason Jowers after playing some at tight end last year. He's 314 pounds with decent quickness for a right tackle. Projected Backups OT Jake Wood, Soph. - He'll push Davis for time this season at left tackle. He has good size and athleticism, so he'll provide a solid backup at the very lest. OG Kalvin Barrett, Jr. - The 315-pound junior has eight starts in his career and can play either guard spot. C Jake Polermo, Soph. - He isn't going to push Raiola for the starting job, but he appears to be a solid backup.

There's no reason for the defense not to be one of the best in the Big Ten. The front seven should be outstanding, and if the secondary can tighten up, look out. It'll be a major disappointment if the Badgers aren't near the top of the Big Ten in sacks. Defensive Line Projected Starters - Defensive end Erasmus James, Sr. - When his motor is going, James can be an extremely disruptive force making 57 tackles, four sacks and eight tackles for loss. He also came up with 17 quarterback hurries. He's a big, athletic player on the end. Defensive tackle Anttaj Hawthorne, Jr. - Hawthorne returns to his left tackle spot after being the team's most productive lineman last year making 68 tackles. He's the big run stuffing anchor that needs to have a huge season for the rest of the line to shine. Defensive tackle Jason Jefferson, Jr. - Jefferson became a force against the run by the end of last year and joins Hawthorne to give the Badgers a great pair of tackles. Defensive end Jonathan Welsh, Jr. - The one new starter to the line, the 225-pound Welsh will combine with Joe Monty on the right side. Welsh has been a strong reserve making 32 tackles last season and a sack. Projected Backups DE Darius Jones, Jr. - One of the best backup ends in the country, the 276-pound junior is great against the run and tremendous at getting into the backfield making five tackles and ten tackles for loss. - DE Joe Monty, Fr. - The freshman could be strong enough to see time right away in the rotation. At 244 pounds, he's a decent sized player with great natural skills. DT Mike Kleber, Soph. - The 289-pound sophomore was a reserve last season, but he didn't do too much. He'll have to shine instantly on the inside this season as the team's main reserve tackle.

Linebackers - LaMarr Watkins, Soph. - The sophomore gives the Badgers more speed in the linebacking corps. He took over the job on the outside halfway through last year finishing with 41 tackles. Jeff Mack, Sr. - Mack returns to his spot on the inside after missing half of last year. He finished the year with 72 stops and will lead the team in tackles if he plays the whole season. After missing some of last year injured, he turned into a stud closing out the season with a sensational performance against Colorado. He's the leader of the defense. Alex Lewis, Sr. - Joining Mack on the inside is Lewis, who finished the year third on the team in tackles with 86 despite mainly playing as a reserve. The 234-pound senior led the team with 11 tackles for loss showing a great flash at making plays in space. Projected Backups Kareem Timbers, Jr. - Timbers could be considered a returning starter after making 27 tackles as UW's starter on the outside. He's a little bit bigger than Watkins, but isn't quite the same playmaker. If he doesn't end up starting, he'll be one of the first players off the bench. Mark Zalewski, RFr. - Zalewski will combing with senior Kyle McCorison backing up Mack in the middle. McCorison was a life saver when Mack went down making 46 tackles, but Zalewski is better as one of the rising stars in the linebacking corps. Elliot Goode, Soph. - The 238-pound Goode has a bit of experience making 14 tackles last year. He had problems with an elbow injury this spring, but he should be a fine backup on the inside.

Secondary - Cornerback Scott Starks, Jr. - Starks has grown up into a top cover-corner and a good all-around defensive back. He made 61 tackles, picked off two passes and broke up ten passes last year. He'll be in charge of handling everyone's number one receiver. Even though he gambles a little bit too much using his speed to close gaps, he's still a technically sound corner. - Free safety Jim Leonhard, Jr. - The 5-8 safety came out of nowhere to be one of the best players in the country. The junior picked off eleven passes and broke up 25 showing an uncanny knack for always being around the ball. He might not look like an intimidating player, but he's a tremendous athlete with good enough hitting ability to more from strong to free safety. Strong safety Ryan Aiello, Sr. - Aiello led the team in tackles last year at free safety making 105 stops. He'll move to strong safety this season. As sure a tackler as he is, he has to be stronger when the ball is in the air after only breaking up one pass. Cornerback Brett Bell, Jr. - Bell needs to live up to his prep hype and become a solid playmaker. He has good size and wonderful quickness making 33 tackles and breaking up two passes as a reserve. He took over the starting corner spot this spring after having problems as a safety. Pojected Backups CB Levonne Rowan, Soph. - The 6-1 sophomore gives the Badgers a big corner with a little bit of experience. He played in ten games backing up B.J. Tucker, and will now work on the right side on the other side of Starks. With his size and athleticism, he's expected to grow into a top corner pushing Bell for the starting job. SS Dontez Sanders, Soph. - At 6-1 and 210 pounds, Sanders is the biggest defensive back on the team, and will back up Aiello. He saw a little bit of action last year making 12 tackles. Special Teams Projected Starters - Placekicker Mike Allen, Jr. - Allen started to find a clutch groove by the end of last year kicking the game-winning field goal in the Alamo Bowl. He finished the year hitting 12 of 19 field goals occasionally showing a decent leg. Senior Scott Campbell will mostly kickoff again. Punter R.J. Morse, Jr. - The beefy junior only averaged 37.4 yards per kick, but the stats are misleading since he put 24 inside the 20. At 252 pounds, he's a big player with a decent leg, but he wasn't all that productive this spring opening the door for several walk-ons this summer.

BIG EAST CONFERENCE

BOSTON COLLEGE

HEAD COACH: TOM O’BRIEN

The Eagles begin the 2003 campaign with proven defense, questions at QB and O-Line Thirty-eight letter winners (11 offense, 24 defense, three special teams) return from an Eagle team that finished with a 9-4 record after an impressive 51-25 victory over Toledo in the Motor City Bowl in Detroit. The Eagles will enter the 2003 season in the hunt for an unprecedented fifth straight bowl bid and fourth consecutive bowl win. Since his arrival at Boston College in 1996, Coach Tom O’Brien has transformed a struggling program into one that is a consistent winner. O’Brien has coached a running back who has rushed for 1,000-plus yards five seasons in a row; he led last year’s senior class to 32 wins over four years, tying the 1981-84 Eagles for the most wins in a four-year period in the past 60 years of BC football; he has signed recruiting classes regarded among the best in the nation; and he has helped maintain Boston College’s tradition of producing winners in the classroom as well.

Here’s a look at the 2003 squad, position-by-position: Offense Offensive Line No doubt about it – this could be O’Brien’s primary area of concern heading into the spring campaign. Departed tackles Leo Bell and Marc Parenteau, along with center Dan Koppen, leave some big shoes to fill along the line. The Eagles do return both starters at the guard positions in Chris Snee and Augie Hoffmann, and sophomore Jeremy Trueblood did see big-game experience in 2002 as a redshirt freshman, along with Pat Ross. O’Brien plans to move junior Anthony Crosson and seniors Justin Hinds and Keith Leavitt back to the offensive side of the ball to help shore up the line and will look to sophomore Chris Hathy and redshirt freshmen Josh Beekman, Shadu Moore and James Marten to have a strong spring. “Right now, it’s a little unsettled,” O’Brien says. “But hopefully by the end of spring, we can come up with a two-deep we’re comfortable with.” Don Horton, the Eagles’ former tight ends coach, will take over the offensive line coaching responsibilities following the departure of Dave Magazu to the NFL’s Carolina Panthers. Tight End The Eagles are in good shape at this position with the return of 2002 starter Sean Ryan, who was named to the All-BIG EAST second team following a stellar junior campaign. Ryan will be backed up by junior David Kashetta, who saw significant action at tight end last season as one of Ryan’s backups. Sophomore Chris Miller, who played a key role with the scout team last year, also will vie for playing time at tight end in 2003. Jim Bridge, offensive line coach last season at Eastern Michigan University and a former offensive line assistant at The Ohio State University, will coach BC’s tight ends, replacing Horton. Quarterback Easily the most high-profile position on any team, this will be, no doubt, the hottest topic of discussion among BC fans heading into the 2003 season. Veteran QB Brian St. Pierre, who ended his career third on the Boston College all-time passing list, has graduated, and his backup, junior Quinton Porter, saw action in only five games last season. But O’Brien expresses confidence in Porter heading into spring practice. “Quinton will get most of the reps in the spring,” O’Brien says. “I think he’s ready to step up to the plate and play well for us.” O’Brien also will take a look at redshirt freshmen Karim El Nokali and walk-on Dan Berglund.

Running Back At ease - the position that had fans wringing their hands heading into the 2002 season could have them jumping for joy in the fall. Tailback Derrick Knight heads into his senior year after gaining 1,432 yards on 259 carries last season and picking up second team All-BIG EAST honors. Knight was also BC’s third-leading receiver on the season after grabbing 37 catches for 372 yards and two touchdowns. While Knight seems to have a solid grip on the starting tailback job, he will be pushed by returning senior Horace Dodd, who actually got the starting nod for the first two games of last season and finished the year on a strong note, gaining 33 yards with a touchdown in the Motor City Bowl. Redshirt freshman Jeff Ross and walk-on Everett Lee also will have an opportunity to compete for playing time at tailback. “I look for Derrick to improve upon last year,” O’Brien says, “and we look for Horace to have a strong spring, also, to give us a solid backup at tailback.” Senior Greg Toal, who started the final 10 games of last season, gives O’Brien a strong starter at the fullback position, while sophomore Haven Perkins has recovered from surgery and hopes to make his presence known in spring drills.

Wide Receiver - One would think this would be an area of concern with the departure of leading receiver Keith Hemmings (41 catches, 559 yards) and fellow starter Jamal Burke (33 catches, 498 yards). Not so fast. O’Brien is confident juniors Grant Adams and Joel Hazard are up for the task. Indeed, both showed flashes of good things to come at the Motor City Bowl – Adams led all BC receivers with five catches for 92 yards and two touchdowns, while Hazard caught five passes for 66 yards and one touchdown in that game. “We really liked the way Adams and Hazard played in the bowl game,” O’Brien says. “They will start out as our top two wide receivers, but then we have four freshmen on campus (Taylor Sele, Jason Lilly, Tony Gonzalez and Kevin Challenger) who will get a strong look.”

Defense -Defensive Line The area weakened last season by season-ending injuries to Doug Goodwin and Antonio Garay could be the strength of the 2003 team. Although he will sit out spring drills, left tackle Goodwin is expected to be back at full strength in time to reclaim a starting job in the fall. Senior Tom Martin brings experience to the line after starting all 13 games last season. Junior Tim Bulman, who was thrust into a starting role midway through last season when Goodwin was injured, returns to challenge again for a starting role, along with Al Washington, who saw action last year as a true freshman. Senior Leonard Bennett also will get a look during spring drills. Although starting defensive end Derric Rossy is gone, his counterpart, junior Phil Mettling returns. Mettling was another player thrust into the limelight in 2002 as he replaced the injured Antonio Garay and started the last eight games of the season. Standout sophomore Mathias Kiwanuka returns, along with sophomore Jim Unis, who was called into action last season as a true freshman. Junior Myran Hunter and redshirt freshmen Jake Ottolini and Robert Ziminski also are on the radar screen for spring drills. Linebacker “Our main concern on defense,” O’Brien says, “is to find a middle linebacker.” Indeed, the key to this position is finding a replacement for departed starting middle linebacker Vinny Ciurciu. O’Brien will look at sophomores Ray Henderson, who played a key backup role in 2002, and Ricky Brown, who saw action as a true freshman, to step into Ciurciu’s role. Starters Josh Ott and Brian Flores return to lay claim to the other two starting linebacker positions. Ott started all 13 games last season, was BC’s leading tackler, and was named national defensive Player of the Week after his performance against Notre Dame, which included a 71-yard interception return for a touchdown. Fellow senior Flores earned BIG EAST Player of the Week honors last season for his play vs. Central Michigan. Senior Kevin Kiley, sophomores Jon Misiewicz and Patrick McShane and redshirt freshmen Jeff Burns also will get a look in spring drills.

Defensive Backs The Eagles lose three starters in safeties Doug Bessette and Ralph Parent and corner Trevor White, but a strong spring practice could enable some talented young players to step to the plate. Peter Shean, who started at corner for the first two games of 2002 before being sidelined with a torn anterior cruciate ligament, will sit out spring drills but is expected to return to the lineup in the fall. Sophomore Larry Lester returns as a veteran after being thrust into Shean’s starting position early last season as a redshirt freshman. Sophomore talent Will Blackmon, who showed flashes of brilliance as a true freshman, and fellow sophomore Jazzmen Williams return to provide depth at this position. Senior Paul Cook, who started one game at safety in 2002, and talented reserve T.J. Stancil are the frontrunners at the safety spots, while O’Brien will be watching sophomore Nathanael Hasselbeck and redshirt freshman Larry Anam at the position as well. Kevin Lempa, defensive coordinator at Hawaii since 2000 and a former member of the BC coaching staff, will coach the Eagles’ defensive backfield, replacing Bob Shoop, who resigned in January to become the head football coach at Columbia University. Specialists Senior Sandro Sciortino is a proven place-kicker for the Eagles. Sciortino handled all kickoff, PAT and field goal duties for the Eagles in 2002 and set a Boston College single-season record for field goals made (23). O’Brien will call on walk-on Rob Leuffen to replace four-year starter Kevin McMyler.

MIAMI-FLORIDA

HEAD COACH: LARRY COKER

After a three-year run in which they won 35 of 37 games, captured one national championship and three BIG EAST Conference titles and made two appearances in the Bowl Championship Series Title Game, the Miami Hurricanes have several challenges to face this spring in their quest to maintain a tradition of excellence and dominance established over the last 20 seasons. The Hurricanes must replace 12 starters (5 offense, 5 defense, 2 specialists) from a year ago and have undergone an al-most complete makeover from their starting unit of two years ago. Only two players – linebackers Jonathan Vilma and D.J. Williams – remain as starters from the 2001 national champions. But the “generational change” that has taken place over the last two seasons hasn’t lowered the expectations of the players, the coaching staff or the fans. The Hurricanes fully expect to compete for another BIG EAST title and make another run at national contention this season as 47 lettermen return from the squad that went 12-1 in 2002 and narrowly missed a second consecutive national championship. Overall, 13 starters (6 offense, 6 defense, 1 specialist) re-turn for Miami including the team’s leading pass catcher, top five tacklers, leading blocker, all four defensive backs, and leading return men. Miami completed its first ever back-to-back 12-win seasons in 2001 and 2002 and head coach Larry Coker mans the helm of a program that is one of only two in the nation (along with Texas) to have constructed five consecutive nine (or more) win seasons. Miami has finished ranked among the top two each of the last three seasons, but this group of Hurricanes is not satisfied. The bar of expectations remains high at Miami and this team wants to raise it even higher.

QUARTERBACK The Hurricanes enter the spring of 2003 looking to replace one of college football’s supreme winners and the most prolific passer in Miami history in Ken Dorsey. Despite the fact that the Hurricanes have a quartet of talented passers ready to compete for the starting job, Miami faces the prospect of a starting quarterback this fall that will be making his first stop in a UM uniform for the first time since Larry Coker took over the program in 2001. Two players return with extensive playing experience – juniors Derrick Crudup and Brock Berlin – but only one (Crudup) has significant playing time in the Miami system. Crudup is entering his fourth year working with the Miami offense and has played in 16 games over the last two seasons. An athletic player with a strong arm, Crudup served as Dorsey’s primary backup the last two seasons after redshirting in 2000. Crudup has completed 25 of 48 passes for 326 yards and three touchdowns without throwing an interception at Miami. Fellow junior Brock Berlin is a heralded transfer from the University of Florida who sat out the 2002 season per NCAA transfer rules. Berlin went through spring practice in 2002 and is in his fourth spring practice of college ball. The Shreveport, La., native played in 12 games for the Gators in 2000 and 2001, completing 53 of 87 passes for 653 yards and 11 touchdowns with two interceptions. Berlin started his final game at Florida, leading the Gators for much of their victory over Maryland in the 2002 Orange Bowl following the 2001 regular season. Redshirt freshman Marc Guillon appears to have the right bloodlines for the job, hailing from the same high school that produced Dorsey (Orinda High School in Miramonte, Calif.). Guillon played once last year before settling for a medical redshirt in 2001, completing three of five passes for 53 yards and a touchdown without an interception against Florida A&M. True freshman Kyle Wright enrolled early at UM in January. A talented passer, Wright was considered by many to be the nation’s top high school signal caller in 2002.

RECEIVERS The player who wins the quarterbacking derby will be able to rely on a receivers corps that combines some veteran experience with exciting young talent. Several young players will be looking to make the most of their chance for a starting job this spring as there is an opportunity for work at both split end and flanker. The loss of split end Andre Johnson to the NFL a year early was a blow, but not an unexpected one, for the Hurricanes. At flanker, senior Kevin Beard will miss the spring while recovering from a knee injury suffered in late November. That leaves senior Jason Geathers as the leading veteran returnee at split end with sophomore Roscoe Parrish the leading returnee at flanker. Geathers spent much of 2002 at tailback, but moved back to split end after Beard’s injury. Geathers is no stranger to the position, having spent the 2000 and 2001 seasons there and he had seven catches for 99 yards with two touchdowns in 2002. Geathers has 16 catches for 211 yards and three scores in his career. Joining Geathers at split end will be sophomore Akieem Jolla, who caught five passes for 96 yards and one touchdown last season. Ryan Moore is a gifted talent at split end who could be ready to make an impact in his redshirt freshman season. While Parrish leads the way at flanker, the Hurricanes have no shortage of talent there this spring while awaiting Beard’s return this fall (he had 23 catches for 262 yards and four touchdowns last year to rank fourth in receptions). Parrish began to establish himself as a big-play threat late in the season, making several important catches after Beard’s injury. Parrish ended 2002 with 19 catches for 340 yards and two touchdowns. True freshman Darnell Jenkins will make a much-anticipated debut in orange and green this spring while sophomore Sinorice Moss is expected to miss the spring after offseason ankle surgery. Moss was a special teams regular who also caught three passes last year.

TIGHT ENDS Perhaps the position that will provide the greatest comfort to UM’s new quarterback will be tight end. Junior Kellen Winslow returns to the starting position after posting the most productive pass catching season ever by a Miami tight end in 2002. Winslow, a first team All-America selection by CNNSI.com in 2002, caught a team-high 57 passes for 726 yards and eight touchdowns last season. He capped the year with a record performance in the Fiesta Bowl against Ohio State with 11 catches for 122 yards and a touchdown. A finalist for the John Mackey Award (nation’s top tight end) in 2002, Winslow is college football’s undisputed top returning tight end. But Miami’s talent pool at tight end doesn’t stop with Winslow. Joining the Hurricanes this spring is Kevin Everett, who starred the last two years at Kilgore (Texas) Junior College after originally signing with UM in 2001. Everett has the size, speed and agility to give Miami a pair of out-standing athletes at the position. Sophomore Brandon Sebald returns for his third season in the Miami system after redshirting in 2001 and playing sparingly in 2002. He has one career catch, a 14-yarder against Connecticut in 2002. Redshirt freshman Curtis Justus continues to learn the Miami system and will be competing for playing time this spring, along with Sebald. Winslow’s primary backup, sophomore Eric Winston, has moved from tight end to the offensive line.

RUNNING BACKS For the third straight season, Miami needs to replace its starting tailback. In 2001, the Hurricanes replaced former starter James Jackson with future NFL first round draft pick Clinton Portis (the 2002 NFL Rookie of the Year). In 2002, Miami replaced Portis with Willis McGahee, who shattered every Miami single- season rushing and all-purpose yardage record in his only season as the starter. One of this spring’s most anticipated competitions will be the battle for the starting job at tailback between fifth-year senior Jarrett Payton and third-year sophomore Frank Gore. Payton has experience on his side, having played in 27 games during his UM career including 12 games last season as a reserve tailback. Payton rushed for 223 yards (4.5 avg.) last season and has 511 yards (4.4 avg.) and three touchdowns in his Miami career. Gore was the touted star of the future heading into 2002 after a dazzling 2001 campaign in which he averaged a whopping 9.1 yards per carry with 562 yards on 62 carries and five touchdowns. Payton and Gore are the only scholarship tailbacks on the roster this spring. Miami will welcome freshman recruit Tyrone Moss to join the rotation this fall. There is plenty of experience returning at fullback as the Hurricanes welcome back incumbent sophomore starter Quadtrine Hilland top reserves junior Kyle Cobia and senior Talib Humphrey. Undersized for a fullback at 6-2, 213, Hill showed surprising blocking skill along with the ability to be a dependable receiver as he caught 14 passes for 270 yards (19.3 avg.) but will be looking for more touches on the ground after carrying only six times for 16 yards last season. Cobia is a more traditional fullback whose blocking in short yardage situations has been vital. But Cobia will miss the spring following surgery to repair a shoulder. Humphrey played extensively as a reserve last year and will be looking to expand his role this spring.

OFFENSIVE LINE The Miami offensive line has produced at least one first-team All-American each of the last four seasons. Miami lost three of five starters from 2001 (LT Bryant McKinnie, RT Joaquin Gonzalez and RG Martin Bibla) and loses two more starters from 2002 (C Brett Romberg and LG Sherko Haji-Rasouli). Romberg and Haji-Rasouli combined for 61 starts in their careers at Miami. Three starters return who started all 13 games in 2002 – senior tackle Vernon Carey, senior tackle Carlos Joseph and junior guard Chris Myers. But line coach Art Kehoe has made it clear that no one’s starting job is safe. Carey could be set up for a monster year in his senior campaign after a dominating performance in 2002 in which he led the team in pancake blocks and metrorails”. Joseph and Carey have the ability to be outstanding tackles while Myers could be the star of the future at guard. All three players were vital members of a unit that showed the ability to be a punishing run blocking unit while allowing just 11 sacks by the starters last sea-son. Two key starting jobs are open at center and left guard. Junior Joel Rodriguez appears primed to step in at Romberg’s center spot after three seasons of apprenticeship while veteran senior guard Joe McGrath is the most experienced returnee vying for the job at left guard. A group of talented younger players will battle for playing time and starting jobs, as well. Sophomores Tony Tella and Rashad Butler will be in the mix at tackle while sophomore Robert Bergman, and redshirt freshman Alex Pou will get a look at guard. The most intriguing position change of the spring could be former tight end Eric Winston’s move to the line. The sophomore, who has bulked up to 290 pounds over the offseason, will begin at tackle but could play either guard or tackle this season. Also, look for true freshman Derrick Morse to make his presence felt at tackle this spring after enrolling in time for the spring semester.

DEFENSIVE LINE On paper, at least, the Hurricanes appear decimated along the defensive front. Six key players from 2002, including all four regular starters, have departed leaving Miami with crucial work to do in the defensive front. But the cupboard is far from cleared of talent and experience as the Hurricanes return veterans at both tackles spots and younger players with experience at the ends. Headlining the Miami front wall will be junior defensive tackle Vince Wilfork, who returns for his third season at UM with designs on making a huge impact for the Hurricanes in his first season as the probable starter. Wilfork was close to cracking the team’s top 10 in tackles last year with 43 stops including 15 tackles for losses, eight quarterback hurries and seven quarterback sacks. Joining Wilfork in the middle will be Santonio Thomas and Orien Harris. Thomas played in two games last year before missing the rest of the season with a shoulder injury. He has played in 15 games over the last three years and had three tackles for losses and one sack in little more than a game of play in 2002. Harris earned increasing playing time as last season progressed, racking up 36 tackles (14 solos), 14 quarterback hurries, one sack and a fumble recovery. Another veteran tackle, senior Larry Anderson, returns this season and figures to battle for playing time after missing much of 2002 with an illness. The process to find a rotation of defensive ends figures to be one of the team’s primary concerns this spring. Miami returns two players with extensive experience in junior John Square and sophomore Thomas Carroll. Square has played in 13 games over the last two seasons, including four games in 2002. He had five sacks in nine games two years ago before being limited by a chest injury last season. Carroll worked into regular playing time last season as a redshirt freshman, garnering six tackles (two for losses) and one quarterback sack. The arrival of junior college transfer Alton Wright this spring from Kilgore (Texas) JC could shore up some of the depth at end, as will the emergence of a pair of talented redshirt freshmen in Baraka Atkins and John Wood. Both Atkins and Wood are considered stars of the future for the Hurricanes. Junior David Williams moves to defensive end this spring after spending his first three seasons at Miami at tight end.

LINEBACKERS The Hurricanes return two starters who started every game in 2002, and a third who started the final segment of last season. As usual, Miami has exceptional talent at all three positions headed by senior middle linebacker Jonathan Vilma and weakside linebacker D.J. Williams. Both Vilma and Williams made the 11-man list of semi-finalists for the 2002 Butkus Award and figure to be prime candidates for national honors again this season. Vilma is the most experienced starter on the Miami roster with 24 career starts in the middle. A First-Team Verizon Academic All-American 2002, Vilma has led the Hurricanes in tackles the last two seasons, including 133 tackles last year along with eight stops for losses, two sacks, two fumble recoveries, one forced fumble and four quarterback hurries. Williams was a disruptive influence for opposing offenses throughout the season, ranking second on the team in tackles (108) and tying for the team lead in tackles for loss with 16 (45 yards) along with four sacks and two forced fumbles. A former fullback, Williams could be on the verge of a huge season in 2003. The young pup of the linebacker corps is sophomore Roger “Rocky” McIntosh, who broke into the starting lineup at strongside linebacker last year and appears ready to master the UM defensive scheme. McIntosh started five of the final six games of 2002 and finished with 43 tackles (24 solos), eight for losses, and one forced fumble. A group of talented linebackers will continue to provide depth across the board led by senior SLB Jarrell Weaver, sophomore MLB Leon Williams, junior WLB Darrell McClover and sophomore SLB Buck Ortega.

SECONDARY The Hurricanes welcome an entirely different situation in the defensive backfield than they faced a year ago as all four starters and the top eight secondary players from 2002 return. The 2002 starting quartet of cornerbacks Kelly Jennings and Antrel Rolle and safeties Maurice Sikes and Sean Taylor not only settled in comfortably as starters but led the nation in pass defense and pass efficiency defense. Along the way, the Hurricanes tied the NCAA record for fewest yards allowed per completion for a single season at 9.5 for the year. Rolle, Sikes and Taylor earned First-TeamAll-BIG EAST honors in 2002 and all four returning starters should be top honors candidates this fall. The star of the unit could be junior free safety Sean Taylor, who established an edge to the unit with a series of bruising stops along the way to ranking third on the team with 85 tackles. Taylor picked off four passes and broke up a team-best 15 passes and forced a fumble. Redshirt freshman Brandon Meriweather figures to be the backup to Taylor. At strong safety, Sikes will sit out the spring following shoulder surgery. Sikes could return to his starting job in the fall after a season in which he was fourth on the team in tackles (80), intercepted three passes (returning two for touch-downs), knocked down nine passes, forced two fumbles and recovered another in addition to blocking a field goal on special teams. Rolle had an impressive campaign in 2002 with 66 tackles (fifth on the team), six stops for losses, two sacks, one interception, seven passes broken up and three fumble recoveries. The junior from Homestead figures to be one of college football’s top all-purpose corners, showing exceptional cover skills along with a hard nosed approach to run support. Jennings was overshadowed much of last season, but asserted himself as the starter at left corner as a redshirt freshman despite playing much of the season with a cast on one hand. The speedy Jennings made 25 tackles, broke up six passes and intercepted a pass in 2002. Alfonso Marshall returns as one of the team’s most experienced reserves at cornerback. Marshall started three games last season as a nickel or dime back and has played in 32 games over the last three seasons. He made 20 tackles last season, intercepted one pass and broke up six aerials. Sophomore Glenn Sharpe returns to provide depth at corner, as well, after a rookie season in which he made 18 tackles in 12 games and broke up three passes, in addition to recovering a fumble. Sophomore safety Marcus Maxey and soph Greg Threat return at strong safety and could thrive in Sikes’ absence during the spring. Maxey (11 games) and Threat (12 games) played extensively last year. True freshman Terrell Walden will join the team for spring drills at cornerback.

PITTSBURGH

HEAD COACH: WALT HARRIS

The Pittsburgh offense could explode this year if all the returning skill players can improve just a little bit. Quarterback Rod Rutherford is an emerging superstar and he has two sensational weapons at his disposal in Larry Fitzgerald and Kris Wilson. The running game should be strong, but the line has to fill in some big holes. Quarterbacks - Rod Rutherford, Sr. - Rutherford came into 2002 battling for the starting job and finished with such a flourish that he has to be considered an All-America candidate going into his final year. A great runner who's still improving his passing skills, Rutherford might make a Brad Banks-like jump into the higher echelon of the college football world this season if he can be a bit more accurate and make better decisions. At 6-3 and 220 pounds, he could become a decent pro prospect with a big season. Top Backups - Tyler Palko, Soph. - The superstar recruit is the future of the position. He played in a backup role last year and should be a strong. With another season to improve, he should be ready to step in next year. Luke Getsy, RFr. - He's roughly the same size and makeup of Palko, but he isn't the same player. Getsy is the clear number three trying to challenge for the No. 2 spot.

Running Backs - Brandon Miree, Sr. - Miree became a workhorse as the season wound down rushing for more than 100 yards in four of the final five games of the year. The 235-pound wrecking ball led the team in rushing and is a fine receiver out of the backfield. He'll play an even bigger role this season seeing the ball on the goal line more. Fullback Lousaka Polite, Sr. - This is Polite's fourth starting season as a great blocking back and solid short-yardage ball-carrier. He was third on the team last year rushing for 211 yards, but his real skill is in opening up holes for the tailback. Top Backups Raymond Kirkley, Jr. - After beginning last year as the starting tailback, Kirkley gave way to Miree after a few game and finished the year with 152 rushing yards. The 215-pound Kirkley is an experienced option to give Miree a spell. Fullback Tim Murphy, Soph. - An experienced backup, the 230-pound Murphy broke off a 52-yard run against Virginia Tech showing off his speed. He had problems with a shoulder problem, but he should be 100% this year.

Receivers - Larry Fitzgerald, Soph. - Fitzgerald is one of the best wide receivers in the nation. He has a knack for making the great play when the ball is in the air with a Cris Carter-like ability around the goal line. At 6-3 and 210 pounds, he's ready for the NFL right now. He's also a great character player with the drive to get even better. Yogi Roth, Sr. - It'll be up to Roth to take over for Lamar Slade opposite Fitzgerald. Roth made two catches last year in a reserve role with enough experience to handle the job of catching the underneath passes. Tight end Kris Wilson, Sr. - It's unfortunate that Wilson plays in the same conference as Kellen Winslow. The 6-3, 240-pound Wilson is a legitimate John Mackey Award candidate averaging 21.6 yards per catch with the speed to beat most linebackers and the strength to be one of the nation's better blocking tight ends. Top Backups Princell Brockenbrough, Jr. - The JUCO transfer had a hard time with a knee injury causing him to miss last year. At 6-3, he adds a bigger option to the receiving corps than Roth and Gaines provides. Tight end Eric Gill, Soph. - Gill played in all 13 games last year as Wilson's backup. A little bit bigger than Wilson, Gill is more of a blocker than a receiver only catching one pass last year.

Offensive Line - Tackle Rob Petitti, Jr. - Petitti returns to his starting job on the left side where he'll once again be an All-Big East and All-America candidate. At 330-pounds, he's a mauling blocker with good enough feet to handle most speed ends. Guard Dan LaCarte, Sr. - A starter over the last two years, LaCarte brings experience and side to the left side. He's not the most talented player in the Big East, but he works well with Petitti. Center Justin Belarski, Jr. - The 290-pound junior might take over the starting center job left by Chad Reed. He hasn't seen too much time, so his development is key. Rob Frederick played mostly with the first team early this spring, but he didn't look all that strong. Guard Jon Schall, Sr. - After starting at left guard in 2000, Schall has been more of a backup over the last two years. He has a huge task to replace Bryan Anderson at right guard. Tackle Matt Morgan, Sr. - Morgan has 22 starts of experienced, but he had problems with an ailing hip last year. He has excellent size at 6-7 and 295 pounds with the athleticism to protect Rutherford's blind side. Top Backups C Matt Maiers, Jr. - Maiers has spent more of his time as a backup guard. He'll move over to center this year to provide the depth. T Dale Williams, Soph. - The 285-pound Williams will push for time at right tackle being groomed as the 2004 starter. G Penny Semaia, Sr. - The 330-pound Semaia has seen plenty of action over his career and will push for time at left guard. Pittsburgh's defense doesn't have much star power outside of end Claude Harriott, but it should be in the top twenty all year. This group can best be described as solid with strong tackles, linebackers and safeties, but no one that stands out. The backups are talented and young.

This should be a superior defense in 2004 and it won't be too bad this year. Defensive Line - Defensive end Claude Harriott, Sr. - The concern going into last year was how the line was going to replace Bryan Knight. From out of nowhere, Harriott became one of the Big East's best players last year making 9.5 sacks and 21 tackles for loss. He's not just a pass rusher, he's great against the run as well. Defensive tackle Vince Crochunis, Jr. - After injuries hammered the scheduled starters last year, Crochunis ended up starting every game and became a top run stuffer making 71 tackles and 2.5 sacks. Defensive tackle Dan Stephens, Jr. - An active tackle with 16 games of starting experience, he's a solid player in the middle making 52 tackles last year. Defensive end Thomas Smith, Soph. - The 265-pound Smith gives the line a big option on the other side of Harriott. He played in 12 games last year making ten tackles and a sack. Top Backups DE Andy Alleman, Soph. - It'll be up to the 235-pound Alleman and Thomas Smith to take over for Brian Guzek. Alleman has seen playing time, but he hasn't done much yet playing mostly on special teams. DT Jake Holthaus, Jr. - Holthaus saw plenty of action last year on the nose making 18 tackles and six tackles for loss. DT Charles Spencer, Soph. - The 320-pound Spencer adds needed beef on the inside. He'll combine with Holthaus to backup Crochunis.

Linebackers - Lewis Moore, Sr. - Moore was sensational last year on the strong side making 94 tackles and eight tackles for loss. He's 6-2 and 245 pounds with sideline to sideline range. He has three years of experience making 199 tackles. He might be moved to the middle to replace Gerald Hayes. Joe Dipre, Soph. - Gerald Hayes led the team with 133 tackles last year and was one of the nation's best middle linebackers. Dipre will combine with Azzie Beagnyam to try and take his place unless Moore moves over to the inside. Dipre has superstar written all over him, but he'll need time to get his feet wet after redshirting his first year and declared ineligible last year. Malcolm Postell, Jr. - The former running back made 15 tackles in a reserve role last year. He learned enough on the job last year to use his athleticism on the weak side. After looking great in early practices, the spot is his on the weak side. Top Backups Brian Bennett, RFr. - Bennett is only 215 pounds and needs to hit the weights a little more, but he has raw talent. He'll back up Moore on the strong side if not start. Azzie Beagnyam, RFr - A top recruit, Beagnyam will find a place in the rotation. All he needs is a little more practice time before he becomes a major factor. If Moore moves the middle, Beagnyam will move to the outside. The coaching staff loves him. Charles Sallett, Soph. - The 210-pound walk-on will push for time on the weak side. He's not all that big and doesn't have too much of a chance at starting, but he'll need to become a consistent backup.

Secondary - Cornerback Shawntae Spencer, Sr. - Spencer has grown into an outstanding corner. He's big, fast and very productive making 51 tackles and three interceptions. He'll be the shut down corner on one side, but won't see much action since teams are going to stay away from him. Free safety Tez Morris, Soph. - Morris was steady last year finishing season on the team with 119 tackles and broke up six passes. He's not big and isn't a huge hitter, but he makes plays and is getting better and better with more experience. Strong safety Tyrone Gilliard, Jr. - Gilliard made 49 tackles last year and is a good run stuffer. Like Morris, he's not a big hitter, but he's a sure tackler and isn't too bad in pass coverage. Cornerback William Ferguson, Sr. - Ferguson has spent most of his career at free safety making 33 tackles last year. He'll get one of the first chances at replacing Torrie Cox at corner and has looked fantastic in early practices. Top Backups Cornerback Bernard Lay, Soph. - Lay saw time as a true freshman making five tackles coming in as a nickel back. At 6-2 and 195 pounds, he adds size to the position. Strong safety Corey Humphries, Sr. - Humphries was one of the rising stars of the secondary with size and instincts, but a torn ACL put a hold on that. He came back in time to play in six games, but he wasn't quite the same. He might be more of a factor this season. - Cornerback Marcus Furman, Jr. - The speedy Furman spent time at running back over the first two years of his career rushing for 75 yards and a touchdown last year. Special Teams Placekicker David Abdul, Soph. - Abdul eased all fears about the kicking game last year making 13 of 20 field goals hitting eight of 13 from beyond 40 yards. He was hitting bombs in spring practices. Punter Andy Lee, Sr. - One of the nation's better punters, Lee averaged 43.1 yards per kick last year putting 17 inside the 20. He'll be a Ray Guy Award finalist.

RUTGERS

HEAD COACH: GREG SCHIANO

New offensive coordinator Craig Ver Steeg is attempting to put in a new Pro-Style offense, but it's all about the offensive line. There are several running back options, some speedy receivers, and decent quarterback prospects, but none of that matters if the line isn't much, much better than it was last year. Rutgers averaged 1.5 yards per carry and allowed 51 sacks. With an experienced and injured line, the production might not improve. Quarterbacks - Ryan Hart, Soph. - Hart took over this spring as the team's top quarterback and starter finishing by going 7 of 9 for 102 yards in the spring game. He became a solid player over the second half of last year throwing for 479 yards and two touchdowns with six interceptions. He has a better command of the offense now, and has better mobility compared to the other quarterbacks. Top Backups - Ted Trump, Sr. - Trump is the leading returning quarterback completing 71 of 155 passes for 740 yards and four touchdowns. His problem was in his decision making throwing 11 interceptions. He has the biggest arm on the team. Chris Baker, Jr. - The former receiver caught 13 passes for 117 yards and two touchdowns. He'll be in the mix for the backup quarterback job if he doesn't moved back to receiver.

Running Backs - Markis Facyson, Soph. - Facyson started five games as a true freshman rushing for 398 yards and a touchdown. He's a quick player with a good boost once he gets past the line. - Fullback Cedric Brown, Jr. - The former linebacker saw time at fullback last season starting in one game. At 250 pounds, he's a good blocker, but not much of a runner. Top Backups - Clarence Pittman, Jr. - Pittman started in seven games rushing for 316 yards and a score. He has a little bit of power, but he wasn't able to provide much of a spark. - Jason Nugent, Soph. - Nugent was the best power back on the team averaging 4.3 yards per carry. At 210 pounds, he's strong in short yardage situations. - Marcus Jones, Jr. - The 200-pound Jones will get every chance to see time in the tailback rotation. He ran for 55 yards on 19 carries. He was the team's top runner in 2001. Fullback Brian Leonard, Soph. - The scout team performer will play along with Cedric Brown as the team's top fullback. He's a strong runner, now he has to develop into a good blocker.

Receivers - Shawn Tucker, Soph. - The 6-2 Tucker turned into a great reserve making 21 catches for 195 yards and a touchdown. He should grow into the number one role with his great speed and tremendous hands. - Tres Moses, Jr. - Moses was expected to be a top playmaker, but he hurt his knee on a punt return and was knocked out for the year. He caught 13 passes for 159 yards and a touchdown in 2001, and is now expected to be a decent starter. Tight end Chris Loomis, Jr. - Loomis will be one of three tight ends trying to replace L.J. Smith. After a sensational spring, the 230-pound junior should be a top pass catcher. He caught 11 passes for 110 yards and a touchdown as a backup and in a two tight end set. Top Backups Corey Barnes, Soph. - Barnes played in every game as a true freshman catching three passes for 41 yards. He isn't big, but he's extremely quick and should be great at finding the seems. Jerry Andre, Jr. - The 6-1 Andre started in four games catching eight passes for 137 yards with most of his work coming in the opener against Villanova. One of the fastest players on the team, he'll be asked to be a top deep threat. - Tight end Ray Pilch, Sr. - Pilch moves over to tight end after playing all of last year as a fullback carrying the ball 16 times for 135 yards. He has good athleticism and is a decent blocker.

Offensive Line - Tackle Ron Green, Jr. - The 320-pound JUCO transfer is a big blocker with great athleticism. With the tackle positions in question, the star recruit could make a solid starter when he gets to the team. - Guard Brian Duffy, Sr. - Duffy was the starting guard last season before tearing up his knee. He missed spring ball and is trying to come back for the season to start on the right side. When he's right, he's one of the team's best run blockers. - Center Marty Pyszcymuka, Sr. - He's the best offensive lineman on the team and the most versatile, Pyszcymuka can play defense, offensive guard or center. He's tough, but he's had problems with a variety of injuries. - Guard Rich McManis, Sr. - Experienced at both guard spots, McManis will get the first look on the left side after playing in ten games last season. He's big and has decent power, but he isn't quick.- Tackle Mike Williamson, Sr. - Williamson needs to make the move from being a great reserve to a solid starter. He has a little time at center and at both tackle spots. Top Backups - T Mark Segaloff, Jr. - Segaloff will get a shot somewhere on the offensive line. If Green doesn't end up making an impact at tackle, Segaloff could fill in. - T Mike Clancy, Jr. - Clancy saw a little bit of action playing in four games. He needs to be a top player after playing on the scout team. - G Sameeh McDonald, Jr. - McDonald should be more of a factor with all the injuries at guard. The 300-pound junior played behind McManis last season as a top scout team player.

The numbers weren't great, but it's unfair to pin all of the problems last year on the defense. The offense rarely kept drives going and never helped give the D any support. Even so, the defense has to be stronger in all areas after giving up 33 points and 405 yards per game. There are a couple of great playmakers, but little overall talent. Defensive Line - Defensive end Raheem Orr, Sr. - The 260-pound Orr is one of the most talented players on the team. Now he has to have a huge season to take the pressure off the rest of the line after making 62 tackles, 4.5 sacks and 9.5 tackles for loss last year. He has a great first step and is decent against the run. - Defensive tackle Gary Gibson, Sr. - Gibson is the most experienced player on the interior making 32 tackles on the inside. He's a relatively decent athlete and can get into the backfield. - Defensive tackle Vai Barnaby, Soph. - Barnaby will battle for the vacant starting spot after making 39 tackles as a reserve. He's one of the rising playmakers on the line and could be even better with some more time in the weight room. - Defensive end Ryan Neill, Sr. - Neill was on his way to a big season making 43 tackles and 3.5 tackles for loss in nine games before getting knocked out for the year with a knee injury. Top Backups - DE Alfred Peterson, Jr. - Peterson started in three games when Neill went down. He's a better overall prospect than Neill and will find more playing time as the year goes on. - DT Ron Jenerette, Sr. - Jenerette has grown into a decent reserve and could see plenty of time behind Gibson. The 290-pound senior made 16 tackles last year. - DT J'Vonne Parker, Jr. - He didn't see any playing time last year after transferring from Howard. At 345 pounds, he might grow into a run stopping factor. - DT Luis Rivas. Soph. - Rivas is one of the rising stars on the line making 14 tackles as a true freshman. At 275 pounds, he could end up starting very soon.

Linebackers - Brian Bender, Sr. - Bender is one of the veteran leaders on the team with 133 career tackles, three sacks and ten tackles for loss. He's expected to be one of the team's leading hitters and top all-around playmakers. - Jeremy Campbell, Sr. - Campbell and Ismael Medley could end up combining to try and take over for Gary Brackett. Campbell has a little bit of experience playing in 18 career games. He isn't all that fast, but he has decent instincts. Brian Hohmann, Sr. - Hohmann turned into a top outside linebacker making 47 tackles and five tackles for loss. He has decent speed and decent athleticism. Top Backups - Ishmael Medley, Jr. - Medley went from being a scout team player to a solid reserve. Now he's expected to be one of the better linebackers and special teams performers. - Will Gilkison, Soph - Gilkison turned into the team's top backup last year making 21 tackles looking stronger and stronger as the season went on. He might end up moving to the middle to give the team more experience.

Secondary - Cornerback Nate Jones, Sr. - Jones is a tremendous blend of speed and quickness. The best pro prospect on the team, Jones is great with the ball in the air making two interceptions and breaking up seven passes. He can tackle as well finishing third on the team with 84 stops. - Free safety Terry Bynes, Soph. - The 6-2, 210-pound sophomore will get the first shot at replacing Shawn Seabrooks at free safety. Bynes has seen time at linebacker to give the corps a little more speed. He could shine with his big hitting ability and great speed. - Strong safety Jarvis Johnson, Jr. - The big hitting junior is growing into one of the team's better players. He turned into a top playmaker with 61 stops and four broken up passes. Look for him to be all over the field and to take for Seabrooks as the team's best tackling defensive back. - Cornerback Brandon Haw, Sr. - The 6-0 Haw isn't quite the talent that Jones is, but he's been as productive leading the team with four interceptions and 18 broken up passes. He can also hit a little bit making 35 tackles. After missing most of 2001 with a knee injury, he looked strong all of last year. Top Backups - Cornerback Bryan Wilson, Jr. - Wilson played in every game mostly seeing time on special teams. He moved from receiver to defensive back last year and should be one of the key corners. - Free safety Jason Grant, Sr. - Grant will be in the mix for the starting free safety job after starting in two games. He's a good tackler making 42 stops and three tackles for loss. Free safety Anthony Frazier, Sr. - Frazier has seen time for three years mostly playing on special teams. He has a shot at playing at either safety spot. - Strong safety Eddie Grimes, Jr. - Grimes has been a fifth defensive back coming in as a nickel making 14 tackles. He's expected to play a huge role behind Johnson at strong safety. Special Teams - Placekicker Ryan Sands, Sr. - Sands handled most of the kicking duties last season struggling to hit only 5 of 12 field goals. He was far stronger as a sophomore hitting six of six. He'll get pushed by sophomores Justin Musiek and Mike Cortese. Punter Joe Radigan, Soph. - The 6-5, 240-pound sophomore will get the first shot at replacing Mike Barr. Barr was tremendous averaging 40.3 yards per kick putting 45 inside the 20. Radigan has a big leg, but he's not expected to be Barr right away.

SYRACUSE

HEAD COACH: PAUL PASQUALONI

Syracuse was able to move the ball and score, but it struggled too much in key moments. The rushing attack should be outstanding with two great backs working behind a veteran offensive line. The talent is there at quarterback and receiver, but the Orangemen need far more production this year out of both areas. Quarterbacks - R.J. Anderson, Sr. - Anderson had a strong sophomore season completing half his passes and rushing for 245 yards and five touchdowns. His stats weren't out of this world, but he moved the team and looked like a star of the future. He wasn't so strong in his junior year throwing interceptions and having problems with the passing game. Struggled to prove the necessary spark, he was benched for Troy Nunes. As the most experienced quarterback on the team, he has to provide the leadership and playmaking ability the offense got from Nunes. If he can't do it, SU has two great options ready to take over. Top Backups - Xavier Gaines, Soph. - Gaines could end up as the starter very soon to take advantage of his tremendous athleticism and size. The 6-4 sophomore was a wide receiver for a while before moving back to his more natural position at quarterback. - Perry Patterson, RFr. - Patterson is a very big, very strong quarterback with a big arm and great mobility. The 6-4, 240-pound redshirt freshman is in the mix for the staring job.

Running Backs - Walter Reyes, Jr. - Reyes turned into a machine last season rushing for 1,135 yards and 17 touchdowns averaging 6.2 yards per carry. He has excellent speed through the hole and is automatic inside the ten-yard-line. He isn't used much as a receiver, but he can catch making seven grabs for 62 yards. - Fullback Thump Belton, Sr. - How great is his name for a fullback? His real name is Keith, but Thump just sounds better. He's a 240-pound battering ram able to open up holes and carry the ball a bit in short yardage situations. He ran for 102 yards on 21 carries last year and is a team leader voted the offensive captain. Top Backups - Damien Rhodes, Soph. - The speedy Rhodes turned in a great freshman season rushing for 568 yards and seven touchdowns averaging 4.1 yards per carry. He isn't necessarily a big runner, but he has good size at 6-1 and 193 pounds. His game is all about speed clocking in at 10.7 in the 100 meters in high school. - Tim Washington, RFr. - Washington was a highly decorated recruit and appears ready to make a bit of an impact. It'll be hard with Reyes and Rhodes getting so many carries, but he'll get on the field using his quickness and cuts as a good third option. He led the team in the spring game rushing for 100 yards. Fullback Greg Hanoian, Jr. - Hanoian and Stephen McDonald will combine to play behind Belton. Hanoian moved over from linebacker to tight end and from tight end to fullback. He's the biggest of the fullbacks at 267 pounds. The 238-pound McDonald is more of a runner.

Receivers - Johnnie Morant, Sr. - It's time for Morant to be a star. He has the speed and the size at 6-4, 223 pounds to be a sensational all-around receiver. After averaging 22.7 yards per catch in 2001, he was merely average last season catching 24 passes for 327 yards without a score. - Jared Jones, Jr. - The former quarterback grew into a nice receiver last season catching 22 passes for 213 yards and two touchdowns. He has great speed and quickness able to get open from short to medium range. Tight end Lenny Cusumano, Sr. - The 255-pound Cusumano is a three-time Big East All-Academic performer and a big, physical tight end. The former fullback is used more as a blocker than fellow tight end Joe Donnelly. Top Backups - Rashard Williams, Soph. - Williams played as a true freshman making six catches for 46 yards. He's only 5-6 and 152 pounds, but he's lightning quick. He'll play behind Jones. - Andre Fontenette, Soph. - Fontenette is a physical receiver with good speed. He started to become a factor last year catching seven passes for 89 yards. Tight end Joe Donnelly, Sr. - Donnelly saw time in every game with five starts catching 12 passes for 148 yards and a touchdown. He's not quite the blocker that Cusumano is, but he's a physical player able to be a strength in the running game.

Offensive Line - Tackle Adam Terry, Jr. - The 300-pound Terry is a mountain of a player getting better with the more time he gets. He's a solid run blocker looking stronger on passing downs. - Guard Matt Tarullo, Jr. - One of the smarted players on the team, the two-time Big East All-Academic honoree started every game at right guard. At 313 pounds, he's the biggest starter on the line. Center Nick Romeo, Sr. - One of the best centers in America, the 298-pound Romeo is a three-time Big East All- Academic performer in the classroom, and a rock on the middle of the line on the field. He's been a fixture on the line for three years. - Guard Jason Greene, Soph. - Greene is the one new starter on the line, but he has a little bit of experience playing in five games as a true freshman. He has as much raw talent on anyone on the line and should be a factor with a little more time. Tackle Kevin Sampson, Jr. - Sampson has been a solid contributor since he came to SU starting in every game last year. He's not the best player on the line, but he's a strong player with decent drive. Top Backups - T Quinn Ojinnaka, Soph. - He was the last true freshman offensive lineman since 1986 to see starting time. He's only 264 pounds, but he has experience and good feet. - T Tim Carignan, Soph. - The former defensive tackle and guard will be the primary backup at tackle. He'll start the season behind Terry. G Steve Franklin, Soph. - The 310-pound JUCO transfer is expected to push for playing time right away. He'll back up Tarullo, but could be moved to the other side. C Chris Buda, Sr. - Buda hasn't done all that much in his career stuck behind Romeo. He has a little bit of experience and can step in if needed.

The defense was beyond horrible last year giving up 33.8 points and 478 yards per game. With those numbers, it might not be a bad thing that only two starters return to the back seven. The secondary is the biggest weak spot needing to tighten up in all phases. The line could be tremendous with several veteran stars. Defensive Line - Defensive end Josh Thomas, Sr. - Thomas has defensive tackle size playing on the end. The 288-pound senior lost a little bit of time with a foot injury, but still had a strong season making 33 tackles, three sacks and 6.5 tackles for loss. Don't be shocked if he grows into one of the Big East's top ends Defensive tackle Louis Gachelin, Sr. - Gachelin is the star of the line and a rock in the middle. He moved over from end to tackle a few years ago and has been great making 48 tackles, 8.5 sacks and 17 tackles for loss. He has decent size to stop the run to go along with a great first step. - Defensive tackle Christian Ferrara, Sr. - After missing two games with a knee injury, Ferrara became a solid tackle making 31 stops and 2.5 tackles for loss. At 302 pounds, he provides the beef on the inside as a the biggest player on the line. Defensive end James Wyche, Soph. - Wyche started seven games as a true freshman finishing the year with 40 tackles and 4.5 tackles for loss. He's a great athlete with the best speed on the line. With all the attention paid to the other three starting linemen, he should have a big year. Top Backups - DE Ryan LaCasse, Soph. - LaCasse was the top reserve on the end making 19 tackles and 2.5 sacks. He's a former running back bringing that quickness to the line. DT Brian Hooper, Jr. - Hooper saw a little bit of time even starting a game. He'll push for time behind Ferrara on the nose.- DE Julian Pollard, Jr. - Pollard was a key reserve making ten tackles and a tackle for loss. At 252 pounds, he's not nearly as big as Thomas, but he'll be a good player behind the senior star on the left side. - DT Kader Drame, Soph. - Drame saw time as a true freshman giving the Orangemen a big body in the middle. The 288-pound sophomore moved over from the offensive side to make seven tackles.

Linebackers - Kelvin Smith, RFr. - Smith could be one of the new stars on the defense. The nephew of Keith Bulluck is strong and athletic getting the starting nod on the strong side. - Rich Scanlon, Sr. - Scanlon is a smart, productive player with a ton of experience. He'll move over to the middle after making 59 tackles, three sacks and nine tackles for loss on the outside. He's not Clifton Smith, but he should come close to leading the team in tackles. - Kellen Pruitt, Soph. - Pruitt played in every game primarily on special teams. He was a decent reserve filling in when Jameel Dumas got hurt making 25 tackles, a sack and three tackles for loss. Top Backups - Cory Brooks, Soph. - Brook saw a little bit of time as a true freshman making six tackles. He isn't huge for a middle linebacker, but he has good speed and nice instincts. - Luke Cain, RFr - The former safety brings his speed to the outside. The 205-pound redshirt freshman will battle for time on the weakside behind Pruitt.- Tommy Harris, Soph. - The 245-pound Harris will push Smith for the starting job on the weakside. The former defensive end spent this spring learning how to play linebacker. He's not quite as talented as Smith, but he has little bit of experience.

Secondary - Cornerback Steve Gregory, Soph. - Gregory is the team's best cover corner and the only returning starter to the secondary. He broke up 19 passes and made two interceptions locking on everyone's top receiver. With great quickness and good hitting ability, he's one of the rising stars in the Big East. - Free safety Anthony Smith, Soph. - Smith played as a true freshman making 31 tackles with two tackles for loss. He had a big spring taking over the safety spot, for now, just ahead of O'Neil Scott. - Strong safety Diamond Ferri, Jr. - The former running back has settled into a role as a defensive back. He spent last year at Bunker Hill Community College and re-enrolled at Syracuse. His speed and quickness should be a huge help, and he's developing the ability to make the big hit. He ran for 256 yards and two touchdowns during his first two years on the team. - Cornerback Terrell Lemon, RFr. - Lemon has gotten bigger over the last year. Now he's a strong cornerback with outstanding wheels. If he struggles at all, Thomas Whitfield will take over the job. Top Backups - Cornerback Moe Sidibe, Jr. - The JUCO transfer brings great athleticism and nice size to the secondary. He'll push hard for time at both corner positions. - Free safety O'Neil Scott, Jr. - Scott has a good deal of starting experience getting the nod in seven games. He's a good sized player and a decent hitter making 61 tackles and an interception. - Strong safety Troy Swittenburg, Jr. - The former running back is still learning on the fly in the secondary. He saw most of his time on special team and will push Ferri for time. - Cornerback Thomas Whitfield, Soph. - He played in every game primarily seeing time on special teams. A good hitter for a player of his size, he forced two fumbles. Special Teams - Placekicker Collin Barber, Jr. - Barber is a steady, but unspectacular field goal kicker, hitting 16 of 26 in his career. He his a 50-yard shot, but was 2 of 6 from beyond 40 yards. - Punter Brendan Carney, RFr. - Carney has to replace the deadly accurate Mike Shafer. Shafer didn't have a huge leg, but he put 23 kicks inside the 20 and forced a whopping 13 fair catches. Carney is a big kicker with a good leg.

TEMPLE

HEAD COACH: BOBBY WALLACE

The offense struggled mightily at times last year, but it wasn't always horrible. The passing attack could be great if quarterback Mike McGann progresses, or if superstar JUCO transfer Walter Washington becomes a factor right away. The addition of JUCO star Phil Goodman to an experienced receiving corps should add more zip. The concern is in the running game needing Makonnen Fenton to shine behind a deep, but average, line. Quarterbacks - Mike McGann, Jr. - McGann has strong all-around skills, a good arm and solid mobility. What he needs to improve on is his decision making completing less than half of his passes and throwing 22 interceptions. He shows promise and should be better now that he knows the offense and has an experienced receiving corps to work with. He threw for 13 touchdowns and ran for 299 yards and three scores. Top Backups Walter Washington, Soph. - McGann might be looking over his shoulder at the extremely talented Washington. The 246-pound JUCO All-American has a big arm, tremendous mobility and could instantly step in an take over the job. If he gets the system down, he'll be a force.

Running Backs - Makonnen Fenton, Sr. - Fento is a big back with decent skills. Now he has to become a star in the Superback role taking over for Tanardo Sharps. Fenton has showed great quickness and speed as a top kickoff returner averaging 27.1 yards per return. He hasn't done much in the running game so far in his career. Top Backups Jamil Porter, Jr. - The JUCO transfer was able to participate in spring drills earning the spot behind Fenton. He doesn't have the power that Fenton has, but he's very quick with good moves.

Receivers - Phil Goodman, Jr. - The JUCO All-American made 79 catches for 1,272 yards and ten touchdowns for Sacramento City College. The 6-3, 215-pound receiver should instantly become one of the team's best receivers getting the start on the X. Terrence Stubbs, Sr. - Stubbs is a little more of a deep threat than Cobb averaging 11.4 yards per grab. He was second on the team with 32 catches for 364 yards and a touchdown. If the quarterback play can improve, he should put up some big numbers. Zamir Cobb, Sr - The team's leading receiver, Cobb made 45 catches for 483 yards and six touchdowns. He's a good mid-range receiver and a consistent playmaker. He isn't going to light up anyone's secondary, but he'll be a nice player for everyone else to work around. Sean Szarka, Soph. - Szarka is a big player with great deep speed. As a true freshman, he averaged 16.1 yards per catch making 22 grabs and scoring four touchdowns. Tight end Eric Carpenter, Jr. - Carpenter isn't much of a receiver, but the 255-pound Carpenter can block. He's a smart player and a returning starter, but he didn't catch a pass last year. Top Backups - Jamel Harris, RFr. - The redshirt freshman will initially get the backup job behind Cobb at the Z, but 6-3 JUCO transfer Andre Mixon-Toland could take over the job once he joins the team this fall. - Bill Monan, RFr. - The 6-3 Monan and JUCO transfer Buchie Ibeh will battle for time behind Goodman on the X. They're both big, and potentially productive. Tight end Collin Hannigan, Jr. - Hannigan was out this spring with an injury, but is expected to come back this fall to be one of the team's better blocking backs.

Offensive Line - Tackle John Gross, Soph. - Gross has bulked up twenty pounds to 285 to handle the full-time role at left tackle. He's growing into one of the team's stronger players. Guard Joe Laudano, Sr. - Laudano is the anchor of the line as one of its strongest, and most experienced players. The 290-pound senior is a dominating run blocker with decent feet. - Center C.J. Blomvall, Jr. - The 290-pound JUCO transfer was able to get to Temple early to show what he could do. He jumped up the charts instantly this spring earning the starting center job. - Guard Jose Portillo, Sr. - Portillo joins Laudano to give Temple a pair of very strong, experienced guards. He's bigger than Laudano and is expected to become one of the team's best linemen. Tackle Adam Boyd, Sr. - The former JUCO transfer was a reserve last year. An athletic 295-pound player, he'll take over the starting job at right tackle. Top Backups - G Yohance Perry, Soph. - The 325-pound Perry is one of the biggest linemen on the team. He has a little bit of experience and will challenge for time on the right side behind Portillo. T Tariq Sanders, RFr. - One of the rising starts on the line, the redshirt freshman will battle junior Chris Harris to play behind Gross on the left side.

For all of the problems Temple had last year, defense wasn't necessarily one of them. The D didn't give up all that many yards, but it couldn't keep teams out of the end zone continually hurt by bad field position and little help from the offense. Even so, this was a good group with a solid run defense, and it should be strong again. The secondary has to hope several JUCO transfers can contribute right away. Defensive Line - Defensive end Mike Mendenhall, Soph. - Mendenhall is a very fast, potentially productive end. He's a great all-around prospect making 35 tackles and a sack as a reserve last season. Expect him to quickly grow into a star. Defensive tackle Taso Apostolidis, Sr. - The strongest player on the team, the 285-pound Apostolidis will have to be the team's top run stuffer in the middle. He made 40 tackles and three sacks as a starter last season seeing time at both tackle spots. - Defensive tackle Luis Lumpris, Sr. - Lumpris will have to take over on the inside for Dan Klecko. The 295-pound senior is a good prospect, and a potentially strong player, but it's asking for too much for him to be Klecko. Defensive end Rodney Wormley, Soph. - Wormley is the best athlete on the line and a potentially strong speed rusher. He started last year making 42 tackles and 2.5 sacks. Top Backups DE Jason Johnson, Soph. - Johnson has practiced a little bit at both tight end and defensive end, but he settled in to a role on the rush end and will battle senior J.D. Stanley for time behind Mendenhall. DT Adam Fichter, Soph. - The 280-pound sophomore saw a little bit of time as a freshman playing in five games with a start making five tackles. He'll combine with Antown Burton to play behind Apostolidis on the nose. DE J.D. Stanley, Sr. - Stanley overcame the ankle injury that cost him time in 2001 to be a strong reserve on the end making 13 tackles.

Linebackers - Troy Bennett, Sr. - Bennett turned into a top player playing both linebacker positions making 53 tackles. He's extremely strong and is becoming a tremendous player on the strong side. Rian Wallace, Soph. - The 244-pound Wallace was one of the better tacklers on the team finishing third making 76 tackles. He's decent against the pass, but his real strength is stopping the run on the weak side. Look for him to grow into a star as his career progresses. Top Backups Christian Dunbar, Jr. - Dunbar turned into a decent all-around player as a back up. He'll see plenty of time playing behind Bennett on the strong side. Manuel Tapia, Soph. - Tapia was a strong reserve last year making 17 tackles. He isn't as big as the rest of the linebackers, but he's a productive player and a reliable backup.

Secondary - Cornerback Donnie Coleman, Sr. - Coleman is the best all-around athlete in the secondary with tremendous speed and great leaping ability. A receiver last year making four catches for 32 yards, he'll get the start on the corner. Free safety Jonathan McPhee, Soph. - McPhee isn't all that big, but he has tremendous speed and quickness. A solid reserve player, he could be a missile once he learns the job. It remains to be seen how big a hitter he can consistently be. Strong safety Sadeke Konte, Jr. - The JUCO transfer came to school early this spring and took over a starting job. He's an athletic player who should become one of the team's top three tacklers. Owl safety Lawrence Wade, Jr. - The former running back will need to become a playmaker in the secondary getting the start as the Owl safety. He'll get pushed by JUCO talents, but he has a little bit of experience and good enough speed to make an impact. Cornerback Yazid Jackson, Sr. - The only returning starter to what was a good secondary. Jackson is going to have to be the leader and rock among the defensive backs. He not only led the team in interceptions with three, but he also became a top tackler making 65 stops. Top Backups - Cornerback Carl Marshall, Jr. - Marshall and Bobby Fullmore come in from the JUCO ranks to provide some decent depth in the secondary. They'll get the chance to win a starting corner job this fall. Free safety Eric Wright, Jr. - The JUCO transfer brings great speed and good hitting ability to the secondary. He'll get a shot at pushing for McPhee's job this fall. Strong safety Shawn Bullard, Sr. - Bullard is a good sized hitter with a little bit of experience. He's not going to take over a starting job, but he'll be a reliable backup. Special Teams - Placekicker Jared Davis, Sr. - Davis will have to take over for Cap Poklemba who hit 14 of 20 field goals. He's only 5-6 and 145 pounds as one of the smallest players in college football. He doesn't have a huge leg, but he has decent accuracy. Punter Garvin Ringwelski, Sr. - Ringwelski doesn't have a booming leg, but he isn't bad putting eight inside the 20 and averaging 38.7 yards per kick.

VIRGINIA TECH

HEAD COACH: FRANK BEAMER

Don't expect much of a drop-off in overall production from the offense that scored 30.6 points and averaged 371.5 yards per game. The running game will be as good as ever with Kevin Jones running behind an experienced line. The new wrinkle will be an upgraded passing game with a speedy receiving corps and a more mature Bryan Randall at quarterback. If Randall isn't the leader of the show, that means the time has arrived for Marcus Vick. Quarterbacks - Bryan Randall, Jr. - Randall came in for Grant Noel and became one of the nation's most efficient quarterbacks. And then he started throwing interceptions. The multi-talented junior ran for 507 yards and threw for 2,134 yards and 12 touchdowns completing 64% of his passes. But then there are those interceptions throwing 11. When he was on, he was a weapon, a great leader and an effective passer. He doesn't have a big arm, but he's great from short to medium range. Top Backups - Marcus Vick, RFr. - Vick came to Blacksburg a rail-thin athlete and has grown into a bigger, stronger, more talented quarterback. He's not Michael, but he has an arm most quarterbacks would die for and some of his brother's quickness. All that's missing is experience.

Running Backs - Kevin Jones, Jr. - As good as Lee Suggs played and as amazing as he was at getting into the end zone, he might not have been as talented as Jones is. The 212-pound junior is as flamboyant as Suggs was understated. After waiting for his turn to be the main man, look for Jones to have a breakout season and possibly even garner some Heisman consideration if he can get over his fumbling problem. In a backup role, he ran for 871 yards and nine touchdowns averaging 5.4 yards per carry. - Fullback Doug Easlick, Sr. - Easlick had a huge season turning into a better blocking back than the coaching staff could've hoped for. The 235-pound senior wasn't just a strong blocker, he was a decent runner carrying the ball 19 times for 92 yards. Top Backups - Cedric Humes, Soph. - The 218-pound sophomore will see time as both a backup tailback and a fullback. He has good speed and excellent power as a bigger running option than Jones. He carries the ball 16 times for 68 yards. Fullback Jim King, Jr. - With two good tight ends already in the mix, the 6-5 and 252 pound King will see time at fullback. He'll also go back to being a tight end when needed.

Receivers - Ernest Wilford, Jr. - Wilford is Tech's leading returning receiver with the size and speed to become an elite player. He made 51 catches for 925 yards and seven touchdowns averaging 18.1 yards per grab, but it was his performance against Syracuse that really showed what he can do. In the overtime loss to the Orangemen, he was an unstoppable machine with eight catches for a Big East record 279 yards and four touchdowns. Now the quarterbacks have to find ways to get him the ball more. - DeAngelo Hall, Jr. - The superstar cornerback will see time on the offensive side bringing his warp speed to the receiving corps. He won't be a full-time receiver, but he'll fill-in at times replacing Richard Johnson at flanker. Playing both ways in the spring game, he caught four passes for 47 yards. - Tight end Keith Willis, Sr. - The 6-5, 254-yard Willis is the best receiving tight end on the team catching eight passes for 188 yards and a touchdown. He showed good speed making an 87-yard play against Syracuse. Top Backups Justin Hamilton, Soph. - The 6-3 Hamilton saw more and more action as last season went on finishing with five catches for 56 yards. The former tailback is still learning the position, but he has the raw tools to become a top receiver behind Wilford at split end. Richard Johnson, Jr. - Johnson is one of the speedier receivers on the team, but he doesn't seem to have the full trust of the coaching staff. They want him to go from being a good speed receiver to a premier deep threat after only averaging 10.5 yards per catch on 14 grabs. Tight end Jared Mazzetta, Jr. - The 260-pound Mazzetta will be in the mix for the starting spot. He isn't the receiver Willis is, but he's a stronger blocker.

Offensive Line - Tackle Jon Dunn, Jr. - Dunn became a top tackle as last year went on becoming more and more physical. He started in seven games bringing the experience and his 6-7, 319-pound frame to the left side. All that's missing is a bit of consistency. - Guard Jacob Gibson, Sr. - Gibson can play either guard spot or tackle if needed. The 302-pound senior is one of the more dependable and durable players on the line. A punishing run blocker, Tech will run behind him on key plays. - Center Jake Grove, Sr. - Grove is the anchor and the best player on the line. He's a tough player and a great technical run blocker. Guard James Miller, Jr. - The 6-6, 304-pound Miller will get the start at right guard also able to play on the left side. He's a hard worker with the experience to instantly be a solid contributor. Tackle Jimmy Martin, Soph. - Martin had a solid freshman season able to play at left or right tackle. At 269 pounds, he's one of the smaller players on the line, but he has outstanding quickness and is one of the best blockers on the run. Top Backups - G Jason Murphy, Soph. - The former defensive lineman brings size and decent athleticism to the offensive line. He'll backup Miller on the right side. - T Tripp Carroll, Fr. - The 306-pound Carroll is expected to be a top backup at both guard and tackle. He's big enough and physical enough to back up Dunn on the critical left side. - G Will Montgomery, Soph. - Montgomery has gotten stronger and much better in the off-season winning the spring award as the team's most improved player. He'll back up Gibson at left guard.

The defense should be among the best in America if the backups can come through in the back seven. The line should come close to making 50 sacks and will be a brick wall against the run. The linebackers are very fast and very productive, while CB DeAngelo Hall leads what should be a strong secondary. Defensive Line - Defensive end Cols Colas, Sr. - Colas will be back after missing this spring recovering from a torn patellar tendon. He's not as big as Nathanial Adibi and not quite as strong, but he's extremely fast and great at getting into the backfield with 24 quarterback hurries, nine sacks and 19 tackles for loss. Defensive tackle Jonathan Lewis, Soph. - Lewis saw plenty of action filling in when injuries hit the line. He was the team's best run-stuffing tackle making 56 stops, two sacks and seven tackles for loss. - Defensive tackle Kevin Lewis, Jr. - The 292-pound junior is one of the bigger players on the inside. He missed most of spring ball still recovering from a torn pectoral muscle. As good as he was against the run making 49 tackles, he was equally solid at getting into the backfield with five tackles for loss. - Defensive end Nathanial Adibi, Sr. - Adibi is a superior pass rusher and a top pro prospect. At 261 pounds, he has good size and great strength against the run making 55 tackles. Most importantly, he has tremendous 4.5 speed with 16 quarterback hurries, nine sacks and 15 tackles for loss. Top Backups - DE Darryl Tapp, Soph. - Tapp has gotten much bigger and much stronger over the last year. Mostly a strong special teams player, he'll be a factor behind Adibi. - DT Jason Lallis, Jr. - The 250-pound Lallis isn't big, but he's active and productive. He'll split time with Kevin Lewis and will see plenty of action. - DT Tim Sandidge, Soph. - Sandidge had a great freshman year showing a wonderful ability to get to the quarterback from the middle of the line with four sacks. - DE Jim Davis, Sr. - When he's right, he's a dangerous pass rusher with experience and great big-play ability. Unfortunately, he can't stay healthy, so redshirt freshman Noland Burchette was listed as the primary backup behind Colas coming out of spring ball.

Linebackers - Vegas Robinson, Sr. - Even though Robinson missed three games with an ankle problem, he still finished fourth on the team with 71 tackles. He's the best hitter in the linebacking corps and the best run stopper. - Mikal Baaqee, Jr. - Baaqee took over in the middle and came through with a huge season leading the Hokies with 112 tackles. He's not big at only 217 pounds, but he has tremendous instincts and excellent speed. Able to shed blocks and avoid getting stopped at the point of attack, he's great at getting into the backfield making 3.5 sacks and 12 tackles for loss. He was second on the Hokies with eight quarterback hurries. Brandon Manning, Soph. - The former walk-on has emerged as a great player with an outstanding motor and decent speed. He'll start on the weak side after finishing third on the team with 75 tackles and five tackles for loss. Top Backups - Blake Warren, Soph. - The former safety couldn't stay healthy last season only playing in nine games. When 100%, he has the best athleticism of any of the backups. - Jordan Trott, Soph - Mostly a special teams player, Trott adds a bigger body in the middle. At 245 pounds, he's almost thirty pounds bigger than Baaqee and will be a top backup after hurting his knee. - Aaron Rouse, RFr. - The 6-3, 203-pound Rouse is a great athlete playing as the top reserve Whip behind Manning.

Secondary - Cornerback DeAngelo Hall, Jr. - Hall should be one of the best corners in America with all the tools to be a top draft pick. He has good size, great athleticism, and unbelievable wheels. He'll be the team's top cover corner coming off 55 tackle, 12 pass breakup, four interception season. He's also one of the best punt returners in America and will see time as a receiver. - Free safety Jimmy F. Williams, Soph. - Williams takes over for second-leading tackler William Pile. It took Williams a little while, but he turned into a decent player in his freshman year playing in the bowl game and finishing the season with 18 tackles in five games. Rover Michael Crawford, Sr. - Crawford fortunately appears to be back at 100% after missing time due to concerns over possibly having cancer. He's back as one of Tech's most dependable defensive backs. Even in a limited role, he made 49 tackles and an interception. Cornerback Vincent Fuller, Jr. - It's asking a lot for anyone to immediately take over for Ronyell Whitaker. The 6-1 Fuller is one of the team's biggest corners taking over the job after playing free safety. Once he learns the subtleties of the position, he'll be a top cover man. Top Backups - Cornerback Garnell Wilds, Sr. - Wilds can start if necessary, or just be a great backup behind Hall. He's a dependable player making 44 tackles and five interceptions. Free safety Mike Daniels, Jr. - The former linebacker is a big-hitter and will be a great reserve behind Williams. He made 51 tackles last year. - Rover James Griffin, Jr. - The JUCO All-American joined the team this winter. All he needs is time to learn the system before he becomes a top player. Cornerback Eric Green, Jr. - Green is trying to come back after a knee injury cut short his season. He's an experienced player with a shot at taking over the starting job as the season goes on. Special Teams - Placekicker Carter Warley, Sr. - Warley was decent, but Virginia Tech doesn't like its kickers to be merely good. He hit 9 of 15 field goals, but he had problems from big distances and was rarely consistent. To be fair, he had problems with a bad back. If big-legged Nic Schmitt ends up finding some accuracy, he'll get more work. - Punter Vinnie Burns, Jr. - Burns is a dangerous weapon. He averaged 40.5 yards per kick putting 22 inside the 20.

WEST VIRGINIA

HEAD COACH: RICH RODRIGUEZ

The West Virginia offense has the skill weapons to run the ball as well as ever, but the offensive line might not be there to open the same holes as it did last year. Quarterback Rasheed Marshall has to step up the passing game, but he doesn't have the receivers to do it. Quarterbacks - Rasheed Marshall, Jr. - The concern last year was over whether or not Marshall would be able to become a reliable player and handle what was supposed to be a high octane passing game. As it turns out, Marshall ran one of the nation's best rushing attacks to perfection running for 666 yards and throwing for 1,616 more. He also ran for 13 scores. The problem was when West Virginia was forced to throw, the offense bogged down. Marshall has to be a little more of a passing threat to balance out the offense. Top Backups - Charles Hales, Jr. - It's up to the JUCO transfer to progress into a top backup. There's no experience whatsoever behind him, so he'll have be counted on if something happens to Marshall.

Running Backs - Quincy Wilson, Sr. - A sensational number two option last year behind Avon Cobourne, Wilson rushed for 901 yards and six touchdowns averaging 6.4 yards per carry. An extremely strong rusher, Wilson could be one of the breakout players of 2003. - Fullback Moe Fofana, Sr. - The 250-pound back is one of the best, and strongest, lead blockers in the Big East. He only carried the ball twice last year used only as a blocker. Top Backups - Kay Jay Harris, Jr. - The JUCO transfer will make an instant impact on the offense. At 240 pounds, he gives the Mountaineers a true power tailback to complement the speed backs like Wilson. - Jason Colson, RFr. - Colson could turn into a top back in this offense. He's 200 pounds with sprinter's speed. His athleticism has been impressing everyone. Erick Phillips, RFr. - A smart, young player with nice speed, Phillips will get a few carries, but might be stuck in a running back log jam. Fullback Adam King, Sr. - When Fofana needs a break, King is a solid backup fullback. He's not as big as Fofana, but he's plenty strong.

Receivers - Miquelle Henderson, Jr. - The team's leading receiver in 2002 will have to come up big early until the rest of the receivers can get their feet wet. Henderson caught 40 passes for 496 yards and two touchdowns last season. He has big play ability, but he hasn't really shown it yet. - Aaron Neal, Sr.. - In six games of action, Neal caught five passes for 34 yards. The 6-4, 205-pound senior has to become an integral part of the passing game right away. Travis Garvin, Sr. - Garvin only caught two passes last year. He has to try and fill the void left by A.J. Nastasi. - Tight end Tony Johnson, Sr. - Johnson might be the team's most reliable pass catcher if used properly. While the coaching staff begs to differ, the Mountaineers don't go to the tight end enough. Johnson's an underutilized weapon only catching the ball six times last year scoring twice. Top Backups - Cassel Smith, Sr. - The former running back brings some speed and experience to the group. After looking great in 2001 spring ball at receiver, he primarily played as a backup running back carrying the ball 12 times for 96 yards. - Chris Henry, RFr. - After sitting out due to Prop 48, he has been lighting it up in early drills. At 6-5, he might be the team's main receiver very quickly. - Scott Beresford, Sr. - The 6-4, 220-pound Beresford is a fine downfield blocker, but an average receiver. John Pennington, Jr. - A quick little receiver, Pennington will have to find his way into the rotation. - Josh Bailey, Soph. - Bailey is the team's second leading returning receiver catching eight passes for 110 yards and a touchdown. He'll backup Johnson at tight end.

Offensive Line - Tackle Josh Stewart, Soph. - He'll take over at left tackle after backing up Lance Nimmo last season. All he needs is a little bit of time to become a top player. Guard Jeff Berk, Jr. - Berk started every game last year and is one of only two returning starters to the line. His strength has gotten far better with time in a college weight room, and he could get even better with a little bit of work. Center Ben Timmons, Sr. - After moving from tackle to center, Timmons became a solid backup behind Zack Dillow. He'll have to stay healthy until a reliable number two guy can be found. Guard Geoff Lewis, Sr. - Lewis will take over for Sandor on the right side as one of the team's up and coming producers on the line. He can play tackle if necessary. Tackle Tim Brown, Sr. - The star of the line, Brown will have to be the team's rock on the right side. While not always a mauling blocker, his athleticism allows him to pull as well as any tackle in the Big East. Top Backups - T Travis Garrett, Soph. - Garrett can see time at either guard or tackle. He's expected to push for time on the right side. G Justin Williams, Jr. - One of the team's strongest linemen, the 300-pound Williams will be the primary backup at guard and can play center as well. T Dan Mozes, RFr. - The 290-pound redshirt freshman won't start right away, but that'll change in a hurry as he's one of the rising stars on the line. - T Mike Watson, Jr. - The JUCO transfer has all the talent, but he has to get his motor running at full-speed. He could push hard for the right tackle job.

The West Virginia defense wasn't always great, but it could defend against the run. Now the whole line has to be replaced and doesn't have any obvious stars up front. The back seven should be strong helped by changes in the secondary. If nothing else, the D will be really, really fast. Defensive Line - Defensive end Ben Lynch, Jr. - Lynch has a nice first move and decent size from the edge, but he needs help against the run. He'll take over for Tim Love after making 11 tackles last year. - Defensive tackle Ernest Hunter, Soph. - Hunter was expected to be a big-time player last year making eight tackles in five games, but a broken leg knocked him out for the season. He'll replace Jason Davis in the middle of the line. - Defensive end Fred Blueford, Sr. - Blueford has some huge full-time shoes to fill taking over for David Upchurch. He has the mad 15 tackles and four sacks as a pass rushing specialist. Top Backups - DE Warren Young, RFr. - One of the better athletes on the line, Young has to make an instant impact. - DT Craig Wilson, RFr. - A big player who's expected to make big strides, Wilson will be the top backup behind Hunter. DT Rachid Stoury, RFr. - Stoury has talent, but he needs a little time to develop.

Linebackers - Leandre Washington, Sr. - Washington will take over for James Davis and will try and give the Mountaineers the same pass rushing production. Washington made 37 tackles last season and three tackles for loss. He can hit and could become a top player. Grant Wiley, Jr. - The star of the team. Wiley led the Mountaineers with 133 tackles and 13.5 tackles for loss last season. A player of the highest intensity, Wiley exploded after switching from the middle to the outside last year. He should challenge for All-Big East honors. - Adam Lehnortt, Jr. - Lehnortt has the size and the speed with a great deal of experience. He made 63 tackles last season behind Ben Collins. Top Backups - Scott Gyorko, Jr. - He's only 200 pounds, but he's one of the fan's favorite players and a top backup behind Wiley. - Alex Lake, Soph - Lake will see time behind Lehnortt in the middle. The 230-pound sophomore adds much needed size to the group.

Secondary - Cornerback Adam Jones, Soph. - "Pac Man" will get in the secondary mix early. He's been timed at 4.38 and has made plays all over the place in practices. Needing to find a spot for him among the starters, the coaching staff moved Brian King to safety to get Jones in at corner. - Free safety Brian King, Sr. - King was the team's top cover corner making 79 tackles and finishing with 12 broken up passes last year. With his 4.4 speed, he can play either corner position. but he's moving over to free safety. - Strong safety Jahmile Addae, Jr. - He's the only returning starter at safety after finishing last season with 99 tackles. He led the team with four interceptions and 16 broken up passes and will get the look at the bandit position to take the place of Angel Estrada. - Back safety Lawrence Audena, Jr. - After playing in six games last year, Audena has enough experience to take over one of the safety jobs, but he'll have to battle Akeem Jackson for the job. - Cornerback Lance Frazier, Sr. - Frazier will get the first look at the field corner. He's a speedy player who has nice cover skills and brings experience to the secondary. Top Backups - Cornerback Anthony Mims, Soph. - Mims is a big, fluid corner who runs extremely well. Now he has to turn into a top backup after playing in only three games last year. Strong safety Mike Lorello, Soph. - In a reserve role behind Angel Estrada last year, Lorello made seven tackles. He'll get the look at strong safety. Strong safety James Woodruff, Sr. - He's only 5-7, but he's a great tackler. Mostly playing on special teams, Woodruff needs to contribute more to the secondary. Safety Akeem Jackson, RFr. - Jackson is one of the team's rising stars. He might be an instant factor as a reserve at every safety spot. Special Teams Placekicker and punter Todd James, Sr. - James has a huge leg, but he only hit two of five field goals with a long of 42. He'll have to replace Mark Fazzolari, who had a slightly disappointing 2002 season. James averaged 37.4 yards per kick on his 14 punts. Eric Daugherty has improved his punting and could ending up taking over the job. Brad Cooper has looked great and might be the full-time field goal kicker. Casey Welch is also pushing for the starting job.

PAC TEN CONFERENCE

ARIZONA

HEAD COACH: JOHN MACKOVIC

There's no reason whatsoever for the Arizona offense to score a mere 227 points again. The running game was pathetic last year and needs Clarence Farmer to not only come back from a knee injury, but is now back after getting suspended. The line is fine, but not deep while the receiving corps has explosive young talent ready to break out. The quarterback situation is a bit of a problem with almost no experience returning. Quarterbacks Nic Costa, Soph. - As bad as Arizona's season was last year, the Wildcats at least had some firepower at quarterback. Nic Costa will get the first shot at replacing Jason Johnson, but that could change in a heartbeat. In the difficult offense, Costa has seen the most time and has it down better than the other quarterback options. He's not a big player at only 5-11, but he's athletic and smart. Top Backups - Ryan O'Hara, RFr. - The 6-6, 210-pound O'Hara is the prototype quarterback for the offense. Considered the savior of the offense and the program, the coaching staff will give him every shot at taking over the job. - John Rattay, Jr. - An experienced and talented quarterback, Rattay might be out of the mix after missing spring ball with a knee problem. If Costa and O'Hara struggle, Rattay will get back into the picture.

Running Backs - Clarence Farmer, Sr. - When Farmer was healthy, he was one of the best running backs in America combining power with unparalleled home run hitting ability. He rushed for 309 yards before going down for the year with a knee injury. He might be back from that injury problem, but now he has to overcome being suspended from the team by Mackovic. The Wildcats need him a lot more then he needs them. Fullback Gilbert Harris, Soph. - He's only 215 pounds, but he'll get the first look at fullback. He carried the ball for 56 yards last year and will spend most of this season as a blocker. Top Backups Mike Bell, Soph. - The jewel recruit of a couple of years ago has to become the back everyone's expecting him to be. Bell led the team with 341 rushing yards, but he only scored once on the ground and only averaged 3.2 yards per carry. Gainus Scott, Soph. - Scott has experience rushing for 68 yards last year in a reserve role. If Farmer isn't a part of the team, Scott will suddenly have to become a playmaker. Beau Carr, Soph. - The 206-pound Carr will get every opportunity to see time as a power back and might play at fullback. He was third on the team with 126 yards and led the squad with four rushing touchdowns. Sean Jones, Soph. - At 230 pounds, Jones provides more beef at fullback. He ran for six yards on one carry last year.

Receivers - Andrae Thurman, Sr. - A solid home run hitter with a 92-yard play to his credit, Thurman has to take over the No. 1 job now that Bobby Wade is gone. He's always been a reliable receiver, but now he has to be a star coming off a 61 catch, three touchdown season. Lance Relford, Sr. - A decent player with nice size, Relford has always been a possession-receiver plus, not seeing too many catches with Wade and Thurman getting all the passes. With his experience, he'll get the first shot at the starting job, but he'll get pushed hard to keep the job. Tight end Ray Gurley, Jr. - One of the nation's best JUCO prospects, the 255-pound Gurley caught 46 passes for 479 yards and six scores for in the JUCO ranks last year. Top Backups - Biren Early, Soph. - A big receiver, the 6-2 Early saw a little bit of action catching six passes for 89 yards and a touchdown last year. He'll start out backing up Relford, but he's talented enough to take over the job at some point. Mike Jefferson, RFr. - A huge recruit for Mackovic, Jefferson is 6-2 and can fly. He'll get every chance to see playing time if not take over a starting job outright. Marcus Thomas, Fr. - A superstar high school running back, Thomas wants to play receiver and the coaching staff is more than happy to oblige. He could be an instant impact player when he gets some practice time. Tight end Tommy Briggs, Jr. - The 255-pound Briggs was a nice pass catcher at Fresno City College and will instantly get into the mix when he joins the team. Tight end Matt Padron, RFr. - He'll get a shot to show what he can do this summer, but he might not have a shot at the starting job with JUCO recruits coming in to push for the job. The Arizona tight ends are mostly used to block, and the 260-pound Padron can do that.

Offensive Line - Tackle Chris Johnson, Jr. - Johnson can play either guard or tackle, and will get the first look at left tackle. He'll be pushed hard for the job, but it's his for now.- Guard John Parada, Soph. - At 6-8 and 326 pounds, Parada gives the Wildcats even more beef at guard, or tackle if necessary. He saw a little bit of time in 2002 and will get moved around depending on how the rest of the line shapes up. Center Keoki Fraser, Jr. - After taking over the job in the middle a few years ago, Fraser has been a solid player in the middle giving the Wildcats beef with his 300 pounds. Guard Kili Lefotu, Soph. - He'll take over at right guard is expected to grow into a top player. He saw a little bit of time last year, but one of Mackovic's top recruits should be ready to handle the full-time role. Tackle Brandon Phillips, Sr. - The 330-pound Phillips has grown from a decent defensive tackle as a rookie into a massive and very talented offensive tackle. He's not one of the most publicized offensive linemen, but he could be in the hunt for All-Pac 10 honors. Top Backups - C Reggie Sampay, Sr. - Sampay has bulked up over his career and been one of Arizona's most valuable players. He can play on either side of the line and has started at center as well. After getting a look at left guard, he'll push for time at center. G Keith Jackson, RFr. - The top recruit could be ready to step in and start right away. The 312-pound Jackson will be one of the team's top backups to start, but could come on with a little more time. T Tanner Bell, Soph. - The 324-pound Bell could become the new star of the line. He saw a little bit of playing time last year filling in when necessary, and is poised to become a top tackle.

The defense wasn't all that bad last season considering the offense didn't provide any support. Switching to a 3-4, Arizona will take advantage of the bulk of linebackers and will try and get pressure into the backfield from the outside. The secondary might be fine if Michael Jolivette comes back healthy at corner. Defensive Line - Defensive end Carlos Williams, Jr. - The 295-pound Williams started nine games last year making 27 tackles and 3.5 tackles for loss. With his size, he'll be more of a defensive tackle than a pass rushing end. Defensive tackle Vince Feula, Jr. - The 300-pound Feula played in nine games in 2002 making 11 tackles. He's a work in progress, but he's the best option at tackle right now. Defensive end Brad Brittain, Soph. - Brittain became a player as the year went on finishing with 19 tackles. He's a big player with nice athleticism and could be one of Arizona's top linemen over the next few years. Top Backups DT Carl Tuitavuki, Sr. - At 334 pounds, the former JUCO transfer will have to use that bulk to make more than 12 tackles this year. DE David Sharp, Jr. - Sharp had problems with his shoulder last yea and was never right. He's an active player that could make a huge impact as a pass rusher. DE Fata Avegalio, Jr. - A starter for several games last year, he only made 12 tackles and half a sack. He'll be a coach on medical scholarship ending his playing career.

Linebackers - Marcus Smith, Soph. - Smith was on his way to being a top player before getting dinged up last year. After looking like he'd push for time behind Bryan, he's scheduled to take over one of the starting outside jobs. Joe Siofele, Sr. - Siofele played on the outside, more as a defensive end, finishing third on the team in tackles and led the team with 5.5 sacks. He'll initially make the move to the inside to take advantage of his size and his tackling ability. Patrick Howard, Jr. - Assuming Siofele will be a fixture in the middle, the other inside spot is up for grabs. The 225-pound Howard, who made 30 tackles last year, will battle with John McKinney and a host of other players for the job. Copeland Bryan, Soph. - Bryan was a solid pass rusher last year making 7.5 tackles for loss and five sacks. The former walk-on has become one of the team's better producers and will be a terror coming off the edge. Top Backups - Matt Molina, Sr - Molina has seen starting time on the outside and will push Torrey for time. He made 20 tackles last year. Kirk Johnson, Jr. - Johnson is neck and neck and neck for the inside spot alongside Siofele. He made 29 tackles last year and should be an impact player yet again. John McKinney, Soph. - A scout team superstar, McKinney has the motor and the speed to be a force on the inside. Andre Torrey, Jr. - Torrey was never healthy last year with a hip injury keeping him out. Before he got hurt, he looked like he'd be a star in last spring with his pass rushing ability and his overall athleticism.

Secondary - Cornerback Gary Love, Sr. - Love took over when Michael Jolivette went down and had a decent season. Love broke up five passes and made 39 tackles when needed. With Jolivette back, he might be a backup again. Free safety Darrell Brooks, Soph. - The 6-0 Brooks has the speed to play corner to go along with his tackling ability, but he's needed at safety. He made 50 tackles and broke up three passes last year. Strong safety Lamon Means, Soph. - The 6-3, 190-pound Means was named one of the spring's most improved players. He was so strong that Clay Hardt was moved over to strong safety. Cornerback Michael Jolivette, Sr. - One of the best corners in the country, Jolivette went down with a knee injury and the pass defense took a major hit. If he's healthy and back in the good graces of the coaching staff, he'll start again. Top Backups - Cornerback Jason Martin, Soph. - Martin was listed this spring as the starter, but Jolivette ended up taking over at corner. Martin made three tackles as a reserve last year and will be pushed for time this season by JUCO transfer Zeonte Sherman. Cornerback Zeonte Sherman, Jr. - A big, experienced corner, Sherman comes from the JUCO ranks to push for time right away at either corner spot. Strong safety Tony Wingate, Jr. - In ten games, Wingate made ten tackles and broke up a pass. He's 6-1 and 200 pounds with great potential. Free safety Clay Hardt, Sr. - One of the leaders of the secondary, Hardt was fourth on the team with 65 tackles. He's big and fast with nice instinct splitting time with Brooks at free safety. Special Teams - Placekicker Bobby Gill, Jr. - Gill split the kicking duties last season hitting seven of 11, but he got three kicks blocked. He has a nice leg, but he lacks a bit of boom. Punter Danny Baugher, Soph. - Baugher struggled a bit last year as a freshman, but he should make a leap up after a year of experience. He only averaged 37.7 yards per kick and put a mere five inside the 20.

ARIZONA STATE

HEAD COACH: DIRK KOETTER

For most college football coaches in their second year at the helm, an 8-6 season capped by an appearance in a major bowl game is considered a remarkable accomplishment. But if you know anything about ASU's Dirk Koetter, you know he's not like most head coaches. Koetter, who serves as his own offensive coordinator, likes to throw deep or run flea flickers when a situation calls for a conservative play. He runs double reverses to wide receivers, giving them rare touches behind the line of scrimmage. So it comes as no surprise that a year after a trip to the Holiday Bowl, Koetter is envisioning much bigger things. The Sun Devils hope to take that next step this fall when they return the nucleus of a team that finished third in the Pac-10 after being tabbed to finish ninth in the preseason polls. They lost their share of stars in defensive end Terrell Suggs and wide receiver Shaun McDonald, both of whom left early for the NFL, but the Sun Devils return more than enough depth on both sides of the ball to head back to the promised land. Koetter sets countless goals for his team, many of which are achieved at various stages throughout the season. ASU's primary long-term goal for the upcoming season is to get to the Rose Bowl.

The Offense - Quarterback - In Koetter's offensive system, the quarterback is the spearhead of the operation. With more than a handful of competent signal-callers, Koetter can rest easily at night. Coming off a sensational sophomore season in which he established himself as one of the premier quarterbacks in the Pac-10, junior Andrew Walter is in search of more big things. Walter not only enters the season as the hands-down starter, but he also carries a nice feather in his cap. Several media outlets have him among a group of candidates for the Heisman Trophy. Walter, who has been selected by his teammates as a team co-captain with safety Riccardo Stewart for 2003, hopes to back up that honor by posting numbers similar to those he put up in 2002. Last year, Walter completed 56.7 percent of his passes for a school-record 3,877 yards. He threw 28 touchdowns, which ranked second on the ASU single-season charts and just one touchdown shy of the school record. He became the first Sun Devil quarterback in school history to reach the 3,000-yard plateau in a single season and almost hit the 4,000-yard mark. After starting four games to open the 2002 season, sophomore Chad Christensen will compete for the No. 2 spot this spring/fall with redshirt freshman Kellen Bradley. Christensen completed 27 of 64 passes in eight games last season. He also threw three touchdowns. Bradley was listed by SuperPrep Magazine as the state's 16th-best prospect after his senior year at Scottsdale's Saguaro High School. In his final season, he led the state with 3,085 yards passing and 38 touchdowns. Christensen (knee) and Bradley (left shoulder) have both recovered from minor surgery in the off-season. Koetter says either quarterback could claim the backup role. Freshman Mike Affleck heads to Tempe rated as the 11th-best quarterback in the nation by SuperPrep. He threw 22 touchdowns and only nine interceptions during his senior season at Timpview High School in Provo, Utah. Freshman Sam Keller has a build similar to that of Affleck, and his numbers at San Ramon Valley High School in Danville, Calif., were just as impressive. Keller threw for 3,282 yards in his senior campaign with 38 touchdowns and only five interceptions.

Running Back - ASU's tailback situation includes senior Mike Williams and sophomore Cornell Canidate. The top spot belongs to Williams this fall after neither of the rushers solidified themselves as the primary back last season. Despite missing some action late in the season due to a series of ankle injuries, Canidate still got the most touches last year. He carried the ball 130 times for 493 yards, scoring seven TDs in 11 games. Williams also found the end zone seven times. He played in all 14 games, rushing for 482 yards. Williams was ASU's Player of the Game in the 2002 regular-season finale vs. Arizona with 162 yards and four touchdowns on 40 carries in the second 100-yard game of his career. Senior Jermaine McKinney appeared in six games last season, rushing 13 times for 24 yards. Redshirt freshmen Randy Hill and Loren Wade are expected to make an immediate impact. Wade was ranked as the sixth-best running back in the West by PrepStar after his senior season at Serra High School in Gardena, Calif., and Hill, a local product from Tempe's McClintock High School, was tabbed at the No. 8 spot by the same publication. Fullback - Although senior Mike Karney didn't touch the ball much last season in Koetter's pass-filled offense, he is still considered by many as one of the nation's best fullbacks. He possesses both the size and speed to protect the quarterback in pass-rushing situations. Karney appeared in all 14 games last year, carrying the ball eight times for 20 yards. He also had 13 catches for 121 yards. Sophomore Mike Talbot emerged as a viable backup to Karney, playing in 11 games last season. He had 11 yards on four carries. After spending all of last season on the scout team, sophomore Joseph Aboussie hopes to make more of an impact this year.

Wide Receiver - The Sun Devils return several explosive wide receivers, even with the departure of Shaun McDonald, a two-time All-Pac-10 performer who left early for the NFL. They return three of their top four wide-outs from a year ago in junior Daryl Lightfoot, sophomore Derek Hagan and senior Skyler Fulton. Fulton looks to do more in his final year in Tempe after averaging 26.4 yards receiving per game (on 30 receptions) as a junior. He is capable of playing all of the different wide receiver spots and seems to be a favorite target of Walter's. Last season, Lightfoot caught 40 passes for 552 yards, an average of 13.8 yards per catch. He also scored two touchdowns, one of which came on an 85-yard reception in ASU's 55-38 home loss to California. Hagan marked 32 receptions for 405 yards in his first year removed from Palmdale (Calif.) High School. He figures to carry an increased load this fall. His 32 catches broke the ASU freshman record of 30 set by College Football Hall of Famer John Jefferson in 1974. Koetter is also high on Matt Miller, a sophomore from Mesa Mountain View High School who shined during winter practices in preparation for the Holiday Bowl. Last season, Miller made six catches, two of which went for 68 yards in ASU's dramatic win at Oregon. Perhaps the most underrated player in the Sun Devil receiving corps is redshirt freshman Terry Richardson, last year's offensive scout team player of the year. Coming out of Centennial High School in Corona, Calif., Richardson earned All-America status from PrepStar and was rated as the third-best wide receiver in the West. Sophomore Moey Mutz and true freshman Rudy Burgess, a versatile player who saw time at both wide receiver and defensive back for four years at Desert High School in Edwards, Calif., will vie for playing time in 2003.

Tight End - The Sun Devils have a big gap to fill at tight end due to the graduation of Mike Pinkard. Lee Burghgraef saw more playing time than Maddox last year, however, he didn't get involved offensively when stuck behind Pinkard. He caught one pass in 13 games in 2002. Maddox appeared in 13 games last season, but was rarely used as a target and had only two catches for 37 yards. ASU's most highly-touted incoming tight end is junior Aaron Austin, who signed with the team for the second consecutive year. After completing a productive sophomore season at Fresno (Calif.) Community College in which he scored nine touchdowns in 10 regular-season games, Austin enrolled in classes during the spring semester at ASU while participating in workouts with the Sun Devils. Having bulked up since entering camp last fall, redshirt freshman Jamaal Lewis wants to have an impact this season. Lewis still isn't as big as some of ASU's other tight ends, but his contributions might be just as meaningful. Of all 21 signees, true freshman Brent Miller is, perhaps, the most versatile in the bunch. During his days at Phoenix's Desert Vista High School, Miller played linebacker, quarterback, fullback, tight end and wide receiver.

Offensive Line - Heading into last season, the Sun Devils had to replace five seniors along the offensive line, four of whom were drafted in the NFL. This year, the Sun Devils won't have to worry about experienced depth being a problem. ASU returns all five starters up front, including senior right guard Regis Crawford, senior left guard Tim Fa'aita, senior center Tony Aguilar, junior right guard Drew Hodgdon and sophomore left tackle Chaz White. A year after moving from center and guard to left tackle, Crawford will head back to his old spot at right guard this season. He is backed up by Hodgdon, who may also see time at center in place of Aguilar and Zach Krula, who is coming off of a redshirt season. Aguilar might also play guard. Fa'aita remains at left guard, having solidified himself as one of ASU's most consistent forces on the offensive line during the second half of last season. Playing behind him is Adrian Ayala, who started five games at right tackle and is still recovering from a severe ankle injury suffered at Washington State and aggravated during spring workouts. Koetter decided to move White from right tackle to left tackle, a position he hopes White will occupy for the next three years. White will compete with redshirt freshman Andrew Carnahan at left tackle. Redshirt freshman Stephen Berg and sophomore Grayling Love will compete for the starting right tackle position. Berg doesn't have game experience, but Koetter calls him a "prototype of what you are looking for at that spot." Love filled in at right tackle last season, however, he came to ASU as a center and can play any spot on the line. Sophomore Chad Rosson will provide back-up at right tackle. Four freshman offensive linemen signed with ASU in February, including Robert Gustavis, Julius Orieukwu, Mike Pollak and Brandon Rodd.

The Defense - Defensive Line - It's impossible for the Sun Devils to replace Suggs, a unanimous All-American and the most decorated player in school history, but they've got a number of players that will try to fill his shoes. Senior tackles Brian Montesanto and Shane Jones and junior end Jimmy Verdon anchor a defensive line that is a key component to ASU's success. Last year, Verdon, an honorable-mention All-Pac-10 selection, acted as the understudy to Suggs, who recorded an NCAA-record 24 sacks in 14 games. Verdon will line up at either end and can also move inside to defensive tackle during obvious pass (Cobra) situations. Sophomore defensive end Nick Johnson is penciled in opposite Verdon. He will be used as an every down player this season after playing extensively in the Cobra pass rush unit last year. Junior Connor Banks, a converted linebacker who has speed off the edge, will be asked to contribute on the line this season. Although he has played primarily as a defensive end, he is also good on special teams. Montesanto, who has started 29 games over the last three years, made the successful switch from end to tackle and was one of the main reasons ASU improved its overall team speed a year ago. After tallying 44 tackles in 14 games last year, Jones will be looked upon to help stop the run again this season. Sophomore defensive tackle Josh Kirkwood could find himself somewhere on the depth chart, along with junior Gabe Reininger, a transfer from Moorpark (Calif.) College who resembles Jones. Senior Matt Mason figures to continue pushing for playing time at both the tackle and end positions. Also providing depth along the defensive line is redshirt freshman Rickey Parker, who can play either end or tackle. He excelled on the scout team last season. At 309 pounds, redshirt freshman Ali Likio has few problems stopping the run. Junior Jared Wolfgramm, who appeared in six games last year, could be used as a replacement at defensive end. True freshman Kyle Caldwell comes to ASU after a star-studded senior season at Saguaro High School in Scottsdale in which he recorded 131 tackles, 34 tackles for loss, 30 sacks, 29 quarterback hurries, four forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries. True freshman Brett Palmer will also compete as a defensive tackle. Another local product from Marcos de Niza High School in Tempe, he led his team in sacks and tackles for loss during his junior and senior seasons.

Linebacker - With the departure of three talented seniors, sophomore Jamar Williams will undoubtedly assume the leadership role among the linebacking corps. Williams made great strides last season not only on defense but also on special teams. Sophomore Barton Hammit will be a key component in ASU's 4-2-5 defense, which looked much better last year as players became familiar with it and developed a trust in it. Hammit, who played in seven games as a true freshman in 2001, returned from knee surgery last fall and looked impressive in winter conditioning. After earning Most Valuable Player honors on ASU's defensive scout team last season, redshirt freshman Jordan Hill hopes to make his impact felt this year. Hill hails from Highland High School in Pocatello, Idaho, the same school Koetter attended. Junior Justin Burks has taken a liking to life on the Tempe campus in his first year removed from Cerritos Community College in Norwalk, Calif. Koetter calls him "one of the best junior college linebackers in the country." Freshman De'Andre Johnson could redshirt this season, providing opportunities for others to make some noise. Junior Ishmael Thrower, a converted defensive end who redshirted last year due to a hamstring injury, has the versatility to play on special teams and in the Cobra package as a defensive end. Senior Tyrone Bowers made three tackles in four games last season, while true freshman Mark Washington joins the team in the fall after totaling 165 tackles, 28 tackles for loss, nine sacks and eight forced fumbles in two years at Long Beach (Calif.) Poly High School.

Cornerback - Anything the Sun Devils lack in experience at cornerback, they'll easily make up for in speed. Junior R.J. Oliver, a two-year starter and an honorable-mention All-Pac-10 performer last season, is one of the fastest players on the team, while junior Chris McKenzie has run the 40-yard dash in 4.3 seconds in junior college. Junior Emmanuel Franklin and sophomores Josh Golden and Mike Davis Jr. will line up on the other side of Oliver. Franklin hopes to return to the team this fall after recovering from brain surgery, while Davis is a taller, physical corner who is vying for more playing time. Golden is looking to build upon a productive freshman campaign in which he had 33 tackles in 14 games. Golden will also return kickoffs. ASU added depth to the cornerback position with the signing of McKenzie, a transfer from Glendale (Calif.) Community College who was rated as a first-team All-American by JNCAA last year. Freshman Chad Green, who collected 30 tackles and five interceptions as a senior at Birmingham High School in Van Nuys, Calif., also caught 48 passes for 1,141 yards and 17 touchdowns in 14 games as a wide receiver. Safety - Despite the loss of Alfred Williams to graduation, the Sun Devils are well-stocked at safety with more than enough depth to last through the 12-game season. Juniors Jason Shivers and Riccardo Stewart, both honorable-mention All-Pac-10 selections a year ago, combined for 204 tackles last year despite Stewart missing four games with a shoulder injury. Stewart will also serve as a team co-captain in 2003 along with quarterback Andrew Walter. Originally recruited as a safety out of Grossmont Junior College in El Cajon, Calif., senior Brett Hudson played cornerback last season after injuries depleted ASU's secondary. He will compete for one of the starting strong safety positions this fall after a successful junior campaign in which he made 52 tackles in 12 games and had the game-saving interception in ASU's upset at then sixth-ranked Oregon. ASU also has plenty of depth in sophomores Joey Smith and Matt Fawley. Smith played well at the end of last season, while Fawley appeared in eight games as a true freshman, earning four starts before going down with a broken arm. Koetter likes the versatility of sophomore Lamar Baker, who added muscle in the off-season to help ease his switch from cornerback to safety. Baker played in only two games last year before being sidelined with a season-ending injury and receiving a medical redshirt. J.W. Lucas redshirted last season. He played quarterback at Cactus High School in Phoenix, but he worked out as a safety on the scout team last fall. Daniel Varvel is one of ASU's three true freshman safeties. He comes to Tempe from Bakersfield (Calif.) High School with a reputation for being able to deliver big hits. True freshmen Josh Barrett and Darnel Henderson aren't as highly billed as Varvel but have the potential to be just as good. Last season, Barrett made five interceptions as Reno (Nev.) High School amassed an unblemished 11-0 record before being defeated in the Northern 4A championship game. As a senior at McClymonds High School in Oakland, Henderson also collected five interceptions, two of which he returned for touchdowns.

CALIFORNIA

HEAD COACH: JEFF TEDFORD

When University of California Athletic Director Steve Gladstone hired Jeff Tedford to revive a sagging Golden Bears football program last year, one local sportswriter gazed in his crystal ball and made a bold prediction about the new head coach. Wrote veteran Oakland Tribune columnist Carl Steward: “Tedford will be a name everyone will know in short order when he leads Cal out of the college football swamp…(he) has the look, the sound and the feel of a guy who can be what one observer termed, ‘Cal’s first ‘legacy’ coach since Pappy Waldorf.’ Here’s betting that assessment, and Gladstone’s instincts, are right on.” Right on, indeed. While it may be a bit premature to make lofty comparisons to the legendary Waldorf—who chiseled out a 67-32-4 record in 10 years as Cal coach, including a 39-3- 1 mark and three consecutive Rose Bowl appearances from 1948-50—when it came to first impressions, Tedford almost scored off the charts in 2002. What he did in resurrecting the California football program almost overnight was nothing short of incredible. For the Bears to continue to lay a winning foundation in Year Two of the Tedford tenure, the Cal coach, much like last season, will not rely on any magic formulas but simply hard work. “We need to do what we’ve been doing from Day 1 when we got here,” he stressed. “We don’t talk about how many games we’re going to win. Just take care of the little things and the big things will take care of themselves. Our goal is always to compete for the Pac-10 championship. And that’s a day-to-day proposition.” The 2003 schedule will be another challenge for Tedford and his Golden Bears. No less than eight of their 12 opponents were bowl teams last year. The pre-conference slate includes Southern Mississippi and Colorado State at Memorial Stadium, as well as stern road tests at Utah and Illinois. The Bears christen the Pac-10 season by hosting conference co-champion USC on Sept. 27. “There are no soft spots,” admits Tedford. “We have a very strong preseason schedule. And the Pac-10 is tough every Saturday.” Tedford hopes the same can be said about his 2003 Bears.

A position-by-position breakdown of the team, as it enters the 2003 season - The departure of Boller, who completed his career as the school’s all-time TD pass king (64) and No. 2 passing yardage (7,980) leader, leaves large void in the Golden Bears’ offense in 2003. Yet, Tedford—the man who has developed the likes of Trent Dilfer, David Carr, Akili Smith and Joey Harrington into NFL first-round draft choices—has a way of reloading at the quarterback position. Most likely candidates to succeed the laser-armed Boller are returning junior Reggie Robertson and JC transfer Aaron Rodgers, a sophomore from Butte College. Robertson, whose ’02 duty consisted of cameo appearances (2-for-2, 64 yds., 1 TD) in two games as Boller’s under-study, saw more significant time as a redshirt freshman in 2001. He played in four games that season—including starts against Oregon State and Arizona—completing 43.1 percent of his passes (28 of 65) for 298 yards, one touchdown and one interception, while rushing for 49 yards and another score. Rodgers, listed as the No. 41 best junior college player the country by SuperPrep magazine, set school records in passing for 2,408 yards and 28 TDs for a 10-1 Butte team that earned a No. 2 national JuCo ranking. In completing 61.9 per-cent of his passes, he only threw four interceptions all season long. Other quarterbacks who may figure in the mix are sophomore Richard Schwartz and redshirt fresh-man Steve Levy, both ’02 holdovers, as well as fresh-man Cary Dove, who passed for 3,277 yards and 31 TDs at Taft High last fall. Schwartz is a former PrepStar All-American from Huntington Beach’s Edison High, while Levy was the 2001 North Jersey Player of the Year at Don Bosco Prep. Reggie Robertson -Another Cal legend leaves the program this year, as the school’s No. 2 career rusher Joe Igber (3,124 yards) graduates.

Vying for his tailback position is a bevy of quality ball carriers, led by veteran returnees Achimchinobe Echemandu (formerly Joe Echema) and Terrell Williams. Echemandu, a fifth-year senior who has yet to see extensive playing time due to medical and academic issues, is an intriguing player. He was, perhaps, the story of last year’s spring practice sessions, performing so well that Tedford had given him the starting nod over the more accomplished Igber. However, the former prep All-American from Hawthorne High School tore his ACL and lateral meniscus in the final week of spring practice, sidelining him for the entire 2002 campaign. A big and explosive back, he figures to have an inside track for the starting spot this fall if he can return to his previous form. Meanwhile, Williams is another back who may be on the verge of greatness. Two years ago as a true freshman, he replaced an injured Igber at midseason and averaged 105 yards per game in the final five contests of the season, leading the Bears with 688 rushing yards overall. The Pac-10’s No. 8 rusher that season, Williams bolted for a Cal freshmen-record 185 yards in the final game at Rutgers. With Igber almost used exclusively for much of last season, Williams’ sophomore season was less eventful, carrying the ball only 37 times for 139 yards before he, too, was shelved with a season-ending knee injury after Game 9. If Echemandu or Williams do not show signs of full recovery, the door might swing open for redshirt-freshman Marcus O’Keith or JC transfer J.J. Arrington. O’Keith zoomed for more than 3,300 yards and 35 touchdowns rushing as a prep All-American at Narbonne High in Carson two years ago, while Arrington barreled for 769 yards and 19 touchdowns on only 135 carries for College of the Canyon’s high-octane offense that averaged 54.5 points per game last season.

Sophomore Chris Manderino is the incumbent at fullback, primarily a blocking position in the Tedford offense. Manderino, who rushed for 31 yards on eight carries and caught six passes for 68 yards and one TD, started seven of the Bears’ 12 games last year as a freshman walk-on. He will be backed up by senior Steve Torgerson and redshirt-freshman Byron Storer. Terrell Williams -Senior Jonathan Makonnen, whose 54 receptions last year led all Cal receivers and ranked ninth in the Pac-10, returns to anchor a solid group of wide receivers that also includes part-time starter Geoff McArthur, who snared 36 passes for 454 yards and one TD in 2002 as the team’s No. 4 pass-catcher. Makonnen, who transferred from national champion City College of San Francisco last year, caught at least three passes in 11 of the Bears’ 12 games in piling up 682 yards and seven touchdowns through the air. McArthur opened the 2002 campaign by averaging 6.0 receptions per contest in starting Cal’s first five games, amassing 30 catches for 59 yards and a TD during that stretch. A hamstring injury sidelined him soon thereafter, and he started only one game the rest of the season. Other returning receivers with promise include senior Vincent Strang (5 rec., 100 yds., 1 TD), redshirt freshman David Gray, and juniors Chase Lyman and Burl Toler. Gray—a former prep All-American at Oakland’s McClymonds High—helped christen the Tedford Era by collaborating with Terrell Williams on a spectacular first play of the season in the Baylor game, racing for a 71-yard touch-down off a halfback pass from Williams. Soon there-after, however, Gray was sidelined with a shoulder injury, which led to a redshirt season. Lyman, who corralled a combined 28 passes for 419 yards and three TDs in his first two seasons at Cal, missed the entire 2002 slate with a hamstring injury that required post-season surgery.

Two incoming freshmen who may also demand attention are prep All-American Devin Stearns, a 4.4 sprinter from Serra High, and two-time national Fred Biletnikoff award winner Sam DeSa, who caught 166 passes for 3,154 yards and 40 touch-downs during his career at nearby Monte Vista High. In the Bears’ new offensive system, the tight end position became an offensive weapon for the first time in many years in 2002. Tom Swoboda, who had managed only eight career receptions entering his senior season, erupted for 42 catches for 451 yards and seven touchdowns in leading all Pac-10 tight ends in receptions and TDs. The 2003 season is a good news, bad news proposition at the tight end spot. The bad news: Swoboda has graduated. The good news: the cupboard is far from empty. Brandon Hall, who transferred from Orange Coast College as an accomplished pass-catcher last year, appears to have the inside track at the starting job. Hall, whose banged-up ankle limited his production to eight catches for 79 yards last year, is fully healthy and should return to his 2001 form when he snatched 26 passes for 295 yards and two TDs at Orange Coast. He may be severely challenged, however, by the arrival of another tight end transfer in first team JC All-American Garrett Cross, a teammate of Rodgers at Butte College last year. Cross hauled in 39 passes for 590 yards and led all of the state’s tight ends in touchdown catches with 10. Two returnees add further depth to the position, with junior Jordon Hunter, a former Pac-10 All-Freshman first team selection, and sophomore Eric Beegun, who impressed in last year’s practices after catching 25 passes for 621 yards and nine TDs at Palisades High School two seasons ago.

One of the most stable areas of the Golden Bears, the 2003 offensive line features three returning starters and 11 players who have varsity game experience. All-Pac-10 honorable mention left tackle Mark Wilson, the only Cal interior lineman to start all 34 games over the past three seasons, is the senior cornerstone of this unit. The 6-6, 295-pound veteran played a key role in protecting Boller last year, as the Bears tied for the Pac-10 lead in fewest sacks allowed (25). Senior tackle Chris Murphy (6-6, 310) and junior Jonathan Giesel (6-4, 300) also return as starters on the right side of the line. Marvin Phillip, who’s back from a two-year Mormon mission in North Dakota, will be trying to reclaim his starting center job. He played in six games in 2000 as a true freshman, starting the final two contests of the season against Oregon and Stanford. Others who will battle for playing time in ’03 include tackles Ryan O’Callaghan (12 games in ’02), Aaron Merz (9 games) Jonathan Murphy (4 games) and Derek Joyce (3 games), guards David Hays (8 games, 1 start) and Derek Deutsch (3 games), and guard-center Nolan Bluntzer (1 game). Redshirt-freshmen Michael Gray (6-6, 320), Paul Fraley (6-4, 300) and Erik Robertson (6-7, 315) may also emerge this season. While the leadership of departing senior guard Scott Tercero, an All-Pac-10 second team pick in 2002, will be missed, the Bears have reason to believe that this year’s offensive line could be improved over last year’s unit. A year ago, the Bears’ defensive line was one of the most experienced and deepest in the Pac-10, and arguably the strongest area of the team.

Unfortunately, defensive line coach Ken Delgado was forced to say good-bye to the likes of All-Pac-10 first team selection Tully Banta-Cain (13) and All-Pac-10 honorable mention pick Tom Canada (12), who combined for 25 sacks as Cal’s starting ends, and veteran tackle Daniel Nwangwu, a four-year starter. With their departure, the Golden Bears must rely heavily on the emergence of three returning tackles in All-Pac- 10 honorable mention junior Lorenzo Alexander (25 tackles, one sack, two blocked kicks in ’02), senior Josh Beckham (18 tackles, three sacks) and junior Tom Svercheck (10 tackles). Alexander, a former Pac-10 All-Freshman first teamer and prep All-American at St. Mary’s High of Berkeley, started six games last year. With the line so depleted with its senior losses, recruiting defensive line talent was a high priority this off-season. From all indications, Cal’s coaching staff was successful in replenishing that lost talent. The only question is, are they ready to excel on the Pac-10 level? In nabbing seven defensive linemen in the recruiting wars, the 2003 Bears feature five prep stars who were all ranked among California’s Top 100 players by Rivals.com—tackles Leon Drummer (Berkeley’s St. Mary’s High), Matt Malele (Carson High), Brandon Mebane (L.A. Crenshaw High) and Josh Tauanu’u (Long Beach Poly High), and end Kyle McClure (Oaks Christian— and two JC ends, Ryan Riddle (El Camino College) and Ray Tago (Long Beach City College), who were both listed among PrepStar magazine’s Top 125 junior college players in the nation.

Other ’02 hold-overs that could contribute include senior end Monte Parson, junior tackle L.P. Ladouceur and sophomore tackle Brandon Povio, all of whom saw sparse playing time last fall. Gone are Matt Nixon (61 tackles, 3.5 sacks in ’02), Marcus Daniels (68 tackles), John Klotsche (13 tackles in 2 games) and Paul Ugenti (37 tackles), as junior Wendell Hunter represents the only five career Cal starts on this fall’s linebacking corps. Hunter, a vicious hitter who has impressed with his speed and instincts, was the Bears’ sixth-leading tackler last year with 43 stops. He will be asked to provide leadership to this experienced group, which also features inside men Brian Tremblay and Sid Slater, both reserves last year, and Modesto JC transfer Ryan Estes, who caught the coaches’ eye in August drills before missing the season with a strained Achilles tendon. Tremblay quietly contributed 27 tackles off the bench last year. One incoming linebacker who may challenge for starting duty is Joe Maningo, a JC Gridwire second team All-American from nearby Foothill College, where he shredded foes for 127 tackles (including 33 for losses), 15 sacks, 24 quarterback hurries, four forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries last season. Also, two prep All-Americans who could demand playing time as true freshmen are Garrett Tremblay, Brian’s younger brother who stockpiled 233 tackles and 12 sacks at Palm Desert High during the past two seasons and Chris Purtz, who reeled off 156 tackles and 15 sacks at Clovis West High in 2002.

Another area that was decimated by departing seniors was the defensive secondary, where All-Pac-10 second team cornerback Jemeel Powell (No. 7 career interception leader with 10), veteran cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha (53 tackles, 3 interceptions, 10 passes broken up), and free safety Bert Watts (team-leading 80 tackles) were stalwarts last season. The only returning starters—both appearing in the opening lineup in seven games—are senior cornerback James Bethea, who tied for sixth in the Pac-10 with four interceptions last year and added 42 tackles, and sophomore rover Donnie McCleskey, who averaged 5.4 tackles per game as a starter and posted 45 stops, five passes broken up and one interception in a brilliant freshman campaign in 2002. Other returnees who will need to step up this fall are juniors Ryan Gutierrez (14 tackles, one fumble recovery) and All-Pac-10 second team special teams whiz Mike McGrath (21 tackles), and sophomores Wale For-ester, Will Scott and Obi Amajoyi. Fresno City College transfer Matt Giordano should provide a veteran force at safety in his initial Pac-10 season, while freshman cornerbacks Daymeion Hughes (L.A. Crenshaw High), Brandon Myles (Carson High), Brandon Sanders (Oakland’s Skyline High) and Thomas DeCoud (Pinole Valley High) are all speed merchants who can close fast. Tedford and position coach J.D. Williams are prepared to play some incoming high school recruits immediately, knowing full well that there will be early mistakes of inexperience.

OREGON

HEAD COACH: MIKE BELLOTI

This is still an offense trying to find some consistency. The quarterback situation isn't any more settled than it was at the beginning of spring ball. The Ducks lost running back Onterrio Smith early, but there are four good prospects ready to take over. The receivers weren't healthy this spring, so Oregon still doesn't quite know how the rotation is going to work out. If some tackles emerge, the line will be strong. Quarterbacks - Kellen Clemens, Soph. - Clemens stepped in to relieve Jason Fife at times last year, and was often more effective finishing the season with 201 passing yards, two touchdowns and an interception. He isn't as big as Fife and doesn't quite have the same arm, but provides a little bit more spark. There will be a battle for the starting job up until the opener, but if the season were to start now, Clemens would get the gig. Top Backups - Jason Fife, Sr. - Fife is a big player with a big arm and good talent. He had a good season taking over for Joey Harrington throwing for 2,752 yards and 24 touchdowns. He threw ten interceptions and had problems, at times, moving the offense. He regressed a little bit at the end of spring ball, but that doesn't mean too much since he'll get every chance at the starting job this summer. Johnny DuRocher, Fr. - The freshman looked strong enough this spring to move ahead of Scott Vossmeyer and force Andy Collins to move to the defense. He came to Oregon early taking advantage of the spring session.

Running Backs - Chris Vincent, RFr. - Vincent isn't Onterrio Smith, but he's a decent clone. The 218-pound redshirt freshman showed tremendous cutting ability this spring along with breakaway speed. The Duck offense had problems once Smith went down last year, so a game-breaking back like Vincent could be just what's needed to get everything rolling again. - Fullback Mark Floberg, Sr. - Floberg was out for most of the spring recovering from shoulder surgery. He'll return to his starting fullback job used solely as a lead blocker, and as a receiver making 12 catches for 70 yards and two touchdowns. Top Backups - Ryan Shaw, Jr. - Shaw saw limited action last season rushing for 74 yards. He isn't quite as speedy as the other Oregon backs, but he's incredibly strong with the potential to be the workhorse. - Terrence Whitehead, Soph. - Whitehead is another big, quick back in the Oregon mix. He had a strong spring game rushing for 46 yards making a big push for the starting job. - Kenny Washington, Jr. - Even though he has the talent to be a top back, he can't stay healthy. He's suffered a bad ankle injury early last season, and now he's nursing a bad shoulder. If he's 100%, he's too good to keep off the field. - Jerome Johnson, Fr. - Johnson was a highly recruited linebacker, and might still end up on the defensive side. He'll start out backing up Floberg at fullback.

Receivers - Samie Parker, Sr. - The bad news this spring was that Parker missed most of spring ball as a star member of the Oregon track team. The good news is that Parker has the top speed to actually be a star member of the Oregon track team.. He turned into the go-to guy last season making 49 catches for 724 yards and eight touchdowns including an 80-yard scoring grab. He lit up the spring game catching seven passes for 135 yards and a touchdown. - Demetrius Williams, Soph. - It's an open casting call for the wide receiver jobs. With Parker off running track and Keith Allen and Kellen Taylor banged up, the 6-2 Williams took over showing good speed and nice athleticism. Tight end Tim Day, Soph. - The battle for the starting tight end job appeared wide open when spring ball opened. Day closed it shut as a solid receiver, and outstanding blocker. Top Backups - Kellen Taylor, Jr. - Taylor was supposed to shine as one of the top stars this spring. That didn't happen as a strained foot ligament kept him from doing much. Even so, he's expected to be in the mix for a starting job this fall. Keith Allen, Jr. - Allen is a physical receiver with a little bit of experience catching three passes for 54 yards last season. He isn't necessarily fast, but he has functional football speed. He the strongest Oregon receiver and a good blocker. Marcus Maxwell, Jr. - The muddled Oregon receiving situation gets even crazier this fall when the 6-4 JUCO star comes to Eugene. He isn't a blazer, but he's fast enough to get by most defensive backs, and strong enough to overpower the smaller ones. Tight end Eddie Whitaker, Jr. - The JUCO transfer has the athleticism and talent, but he needs to get the subtle nuances of the offense down before he can make a big impact.

Offensive Line- Tackle Adam Snyder, Jr. - The 310-pound Snyder will be pushing for one of the tackle jobs, and can play guard as well. He's an experienced reserve player seeing plenty of action this spring with Joey Forster out. - Guard Nick Steitz, Jr. - The 305-pound Steitz will start again on the left side. He's a great combination of strength and athleticism. - Center Dan Weaver, Sr. - Weaver emerged last year as one of the top centers in the Pac 10. He's a rock of a player providing a veteran anchor in the middle. - Guard Joey Forster, Sr. - Forster has been one of the most dependable players on the line for the last three years. He isn't a mauler, but he's a technically sound player able to open up big holes. The starting job on the right side is his again after missing time this spring with a knee injury. Tackle Mike DeLaGrange, Jr. - The 328-pound DeLaGrange has gotten in far better shape than he was last year. He's still working on being a more effective pass blocker, but he's outstanding in the running game. Top Backups - C/T Robby Knebel, Jr. - Knebel will get a shot at the left tackle job, but will get a shot at center. The 316-pound junior has had problems with injuries, but he's big enough and strong enough to play anywhere on the line. T Josh Atkins, Jr. - The 319-pound Atkins will combine with Josh Hagemeyer and Shawn Perkins to push for time at tackle. Atkins is a former defensive lineman still learning how to play on the offensive side. C Enoka Lucas, RFr. - Lucas saw extensive action this spring getting action in the spring game. The 290-pound redshirt freshman will be groomed to be the team's future center for when Weaver is gone.

Oregon's defense was strong upfront, but pathetic against the pass getting burnt by everyone. This year's Duck defense has a more experienced secondary, so now there needs to be more production. The run defense should continue to be strong loaded at tackle. Defensive Line - Defensive end Chris Solomona, Jr. - The JUCO transfer is a big player apparently solid at stopping the run. He isn't a speed rusher, so the 275-pound junior has to use his strength to get into the backfield. He couldn't stay healthy this spring, but the Ducks are so thin on the end that he should end up starting come fall. - Defensive tackle Igor Olshansky, Jr. - The 305-pound Olshansky missed all of spring ball recovering from back surgery. Oregon desperately needs him back to give the line experience and leadership after finishing fourth on the team with 70 tackles. He also made four sacks and nine tackles for loss. Defensive tackle Haloti Ngata, Soph. - The top recruit is turning into everything the Duck coaching staff thought it was getting. The 339-pound sophomore got plenty of chances to play this spring with injuries to the rest of the line, and he made the most of it. He could end up starting at one of the tackle spots either winning one of the jobs, or filling in if Olshansky's back isn't right after making 44 tackles and 3.5 sacks last year. Defensive end Quinn Dorsey, Sr. - The 270-pound Dorsey gives the Ducks another big player on the end. Even at his size, he's still very fast and very athletic as one of the team's top pas rushers. He missed last year redshirting after violating NCAA rules from taking some discounts off his apartment rent. Top Backups DT Junior Siavii, Sr. - With Olshansky out this spring, Suavii got a chance to cement himself as one of the team's better tackles. The 323-pound senior isn't as talented as Olshansky is, but he should be a top run stopper as the year goes on. DT Robby Valenzuela, Jr. - He was dinged up after this spring, but the 275-pound junior is expected to be a factor in the tackle rotation this fall. He made 14 tackles and three sacks last year. DE Devan Long, Soph. - Long needs to be back and healthy to give the line some speed on the end. He had problems with his hamstring this spring missing most of the practices.

Linebackers - David Martin, Sr. - Martin has all the tools to be a top outside linebacker with good athleticism and nice hitting ability, but he can't stay healthy. He made 21 tackles in nine games starting in four games. - Jerry Matson, Jr. - Matson became a valuable reserve making 25 tackles. He's only 224 pounds, but he proved to be a good backup behind Mitchell in the middle, and he should be strong enough to handle the job full-time with Mitchell on the weak side. - Kevin Mitchell, Sr. - The Ducks desperately need him to be healthy. After missing most of this spring with knee problems, the linebacking corps didn't look nearly as strong. He's a 220-pound guided missile making 114 tackles and six sacks last year making plays all over the field. Top Backups - Marcus Miller, Jr. - Once he joins the team this fall, the JUCO star is expected to give Matson all he can handle in a battle for the middle linebacker job. Raymone Reed, Jr. - Reed looked like a burgeoning star as a freshman, but he regressed last season only making four tackles. He's too quick and too talented not to make more of an impact behind Mitchell. Anthony Trucks, Soph. - Trucks was a tremendous special teams player last season. Now he'll push for time on the outside behind Martin.

Secondary - Cornerback Aaron Gipson, Soph. - Gipson is only 5-8, but he can tackle making 53 tackles with five tackles for loss and two interceptions. He had a strong spring cementing himself as the starter. Free safety Keith Lewis, Sr. - Lewis returns to his role as one of the best tackling safeties in the Pac 10. He was third on the team with 80 stops last year and 191 career tackles with 16 broken up passes and eight career interceptions. He was the one bright spot in the secondary last year. Rover Marley Tucker, Jr. - Tucker is a good hitter with decent experience making 27 tackles last season. He'll hold down the starting job even after missing a little bit of time this spring. He's a key player as the Ducks need more production from the safeties when the ball is in the air. - Cornerback Steven Moore, Sr. - Moore tied for the team lead with five interceptions and led the way with 15 broken up passes. He's only 5-9, but he's fast and will handle opposing team's top receivers. Top Backups - Cornerback Justin Phinisee, Soph. - The 5-10 sophomore is one of the most versatile players in the secondary. He made 24 tackles playing mostly safety, and he filled in this spring at free safety, but he'll end up playing corner this season. Cornerback Marques Binns, Soph. - Binns was a major factor last season making 30 tackles and an interception. As talented as his is, he'll backup Gipson to start the year. Free safety Stephen Clayton, Jr. - Clayton is a big hitter and should be a strong reserve playing behind Lewis. He's extremely quick and a big hitter. Special Teams - Placekicker Jared Siegel, Jr. - Siegel is one of the most consistent and talented placekickers in the Pac 10. After hitting 7 of 12 field goals in 2001, he connected on 20 of 24 field goals last year only missing one from under 40 yards. He showed a monster leg making all three field goals from beyond 50 yards highlighted by a 59-yard blast. Punter Paul Martinez, Fr. - Siegel will get a shot at replacing the 42.2-yard average of Jose Arroyo, but all eyes will be on Paul Martinez once he gets to campus. It's asking a lot for a newcomer to be a star right away, but that's what Oregon is doing. Walk-ons Drew Larson and Chris Annis will get a chance to take over the job.

OREGON STATE

HEAD COACH: MIKE RILEY

With ten returning starters off a team that averaged almost 32 points per game last season, there's reason for Beaver fans to be a bit giddy. With a talented, but slightly erratic, quarterback throwing to a magnificent receiving corps, running back Steven Jackson should go crazy in the one-back set. The line is full of veteran starters, but there are few stars and little developed depth. Quarterbacks - Derek Anderson, Jr. - Anderson has all the talent in the world and isn't far off from being a superstar. He has a huge arm and isn't a total statue even though he's not much of a runner. With all of the yards, all the touchdowns and all of the talent, he's wildly inaccurate. He completed only 47% of his passes last season with an eight game span in the middle of the year in which he never completed more than 45% of his throws. After starting off the season with four straight wins, Anderson threw 11 interceptions and five touchdowns as the team went 3-4 over the seven game span. He threw one interception in OSU's eight wins and twelve in the five losses. Top Backups - Adam Rothenfluh, Jr. - A strong arm and a smart player, Rothenfluh is an excellent back up behind Anderson. He completed 10 of 18 passes for 101 yards and a touchdown in mop up duty last year. Anton Clarkson, RFr. - More of a rushing option than Anderson or Rothenfluh, Clarkson will battle Colt Charles, Matt Dickenson and Brandon Jones for the number three job.

Running Backs - Steven Jackson, Jr. - Jackson is one of the best running backs in America and should be considered an All-America and Heisman candidate. He broke the school record for rushing with 1,690 yards last year, but he's not just a rusher catching 17 passes for 165 yards and two touchdowns. A big back with outstanding speed, Jackson averaged 5.3 yards per carry and ran for 15 touchdowns. Top Backups - Dwight Wright, Jr. - More of a scat back than Jackson, he'll have more of a role this season to ease up Jackson's workload. Wright ran for 383 yards and four touchdowns averaging 4.6 yards per carry. He's been timed at 4.37 in the 40. Josh Farrell, Soph. - Coming off a reconstructed knee, Farrell played in every game rushing for 59 yards. Oregon State doesn't use a fullback, but he might be a good option should Riley and his staff decide to employ one. Riley Jenkins, Jr. - Jenkins has had problems with a torn up knee only playing in five games last season, but he'll see a few carries this season.

Receivers - James Newson, Sr. - A big receiver with blazing speed, Newson should be in the NFL right now. He led the team with 74 catches for 1,284 yards and 12 touchdowns as Oregon State's only real threat last season. He'll get overlooked with so many great receivers in college football this season, but he's one of the most talented, and most productive, in America. Kenny Farley, Sr. - The team's number two receiver last season, Farley caught 29 passes for 526 yards and three scores. A big receiver at 6-3 and 221 pounds and with 4.4 speed, he can make himself a legitimate pro prospect with a big season. Jason Boyd, Soph. - Yet another huge receiver, the 6-4, 200-pound Boyd started two games last year finishing with ten catches for 169 yards and a touchdown. He might turn into a top deep threat this season with sub-4.4 speed. Tight end Tim Euhus, Sr. - With two years of starting experience under his belt, Euhus has the familiarity with the position and the talent to have a huge season. At 251 pounds, he's a nice blocker. As a receiver, he averaged a whopping 17.5 yards per catch on 22 catches. He had all sorts of problems with his knee early in 2002, but turned out to be just fine. Projected Backups George Gillett, Jr. - He only played in nine games, but he averaged twenty yards per catch on his seven grabs. He'll back up Boyd as a split end. Cole Clasen, Jr. - The team's third leading receiver last year, Clasen made 23 grabs for 273 yards and a touchdown. He won't start with Farley getting one of the jobs again, but he'll see plenty of action. Dan Haines, Soph. - A nice sized tight end with decent hands, Haines caught ten passes for 144 yards and a touchdown. He'll back up Euhaus.

Offensive Line - Tackle Brian Kilkenny, Sr. - A smart player with a nice strength, Kilkenny is a dependable player on the left side after starting five games last year. Guard David Lose, Sr. - Tried at center and moved to guard, the 317-pound lose started in nine games last year. He'll start on the left side. Center Matt Brock, Jr. - After learning on the job as Chris Gibson's understudy, Brock took over the job and was solid in the middle. At 301 pounds, he's a big player with as much strength as anyone on the line. Guard Kanan Sanchez, Jr. - At 344 pounds, Sanchez is the big body, and the most experienced player, on the line. To go along with his size, he has one of the best motors on the team. Tackle Doug Nienhuis, Jr. - Nienhaus started every game at right tackle and became a solid player as the season went on. This season, he added more than ten pounds and should be even stronger. Projected Backups OG Matt Davis, Sr. - One of the few backup linemen with any experience. He hasn't seen too much time, but he will play behind Lose at left guard. OT Jake Pratt, Soph. - Pratt has gone from a skinny lineman with decent athleticism, to a stronger, bigger lineman. He'll push for time at left tackle. OG Brent Bridges, Jr. - The former JUCO transfer is a strong player with decent feet. He'll be a strong backup, if not see starting time.

Even after losing star players like corner Dennis Weathersby and linebacker Nick Barnett, the defense should be strong with great ends, a rock at middle linebacker and two great safeties. This isn't a big defense, but it's extremely athletic. Defensive Line - Defensive end Noah Happe, Sr. - A rangy, athletic player, Happe had a huge 2002 season making 45 tackles, five sacks and 10.5 tackles for loss. He has actually lost a little weight, but that should make him even faster on the outside. - Defensive tackle Henry Anderson, Soph. - Anderson has become a big lineman and a needs to be a top run stuffer alongside Edwards. He's strong and should be a fine player, but he hasn't seen any action yet. Defensive tackle Dwan Edwards, Sr. - One of the better defensive tackles in the Pac 10, the 305-pound Edwards was an Honorable Mention All-Pac 10 performer last year making 50 tackles and nine tackles for loss. He's an athletic player with outstanding strength. Defensive end Bill Swancutt, Jr. - One of the best players in the Pac 10 that no one knows about, the 6-4, 260-pound Swancutt should finally get some accolades this year. He's not only a superior pass rusher, making 11.5 sacks and 21 tackles for loss last year, but he's also outstanding against the run with 56 overall tackles. Few players in the league have his knack for making the big play. Projected Backups - DE Jayson Jean-Baptiste, Sr. - Progressing nicely over his career, Jean Baptiste should be a force as a backup. He made a ton of plays in a reserve role last year and could step into a starting role if need be. DT Derek Hall, Soph. - He's not big, but he's athletic with a vertical jump of 33 inches. He made one tackle last season in a very limited role and will back up Edwards this year.

Linebackers - Seth Lacey, Jr. - Backing up Nick Barnett on the strong side, Lacey made 18 tackles overcoming the neck problems he suffered in 2001. He's strong, fast and a great all-around athletic player. - Richard Siegler, Sr. - The All-Pac 10 player in the middle is Oregon State's leading returning tackler with 99 tackles. With the loss of running mate Nick Barnett, he'll have to up his production and be an even bigger factor. Jonathan Pollard, Jr. - Getting the first look on the weak side, Pollard made 22 tackles and two tackles for loss. Since coming to OSU, Pollard hasn't only gotten a lot stronger, but he's become faster making himself into a sleeper NFL prospect. Projected Backups - Trent Bray, Soph. - An active backup in the middle. Bray is a solid reserve behind Siegler. He made 23 tackles and 1.5 tackles for loss last season. Ryan Kanekeberg, Jr. - More of a glorified safety than a linebacker, Kanekeberg will push for time behind Lacey on the strong side. Kevin Davidson, Jr. - The JUCO transfer might make an instant impact. He has the athleticism of a strong safety with the size of a linebacker.

Secondary - Cornerback Shamon Jamerson, Sr. - An all-around defensive back, Jamerson can play either corner or safety. He's had to sit behind some great corners so far in his career, but he appears ready to have a breakout season - Strong safety Lawrence Turner, Sr. - The JUCO transfer made a big impact last season making 60 tackles and picking off four passes. He's not a huge safety, but he's very fast and has nice instincts. Free safety Mitch Meeuwsen, Jr. - A sprained knee cost him part of last season, but he still led the team with five interceptions and made 40 tackles. The leader of the secondary, he'll be back at 100% by this fall and could be the best all-around free safety in the league. Cornerback Aric Williams, Jr. - The main corner behind Dennis Weathersby, Williams made 15 tackles and broke up three passes last season. He's a nice sized player with decent speed. Projected Backups - FS Brandon Catenese, Sr. - At 202 pounds, Catanese is a nice sized safety with experience. He made ten tackles in seven games last year. CB Jamal Jackson, Soph. - He's extremely fast and is strong for a player of his size, but he hasn't seen much playing time yet, He'll push for time on the right side. Special Teams - Placekicker Kirk Yliniemi. Sr. - He hit 15 straight field goals last season after missing his first kick of the season. He showed a nice leg hitting two from 50 yards. There's no reason to think he won't be one of the best in the Pac 10 again this season. Punter Carl Tobey, Sr. - Tobey has a very nice season averaging 40.3 yards per kick and put 18 inside the 20. He'll be one of the better punters in the league this season.

STANFORD

HEAD COACH: BUDDY TEEVENS

Talk to second year head coach Buddy Teevens about the 2003 Cardinal and he'll use words like consistency, strength, durability, endurance, work ethic, productivity and commitment. These are the tenets for the '03 season as the Cardinal attempts to erase the memory of the 2002 season and begin anew in bringing Stanford football back to the national spotlight. And there's certainly reason for optimism in 2003. Teevens can count on eight returning starters and 21 returning letterman to a defense that has the potential to show vast improvement in '03. Offensively, the Cardinal has talent and experience at the skill positions, but must put together an offensive line that returns just one starter from last year's team. Defensively, Stanford's young and inexperienced team of a year ago is now a more seasoned, veteran group consisting of players who saw significant playing time in 2002 and showed continued improvement.

Defensive ends Amon Gordon and Louis Hobson return up front along with the starting linebacker corps of David Bergeson, Jack Covault and Jon Alston. In the secondary, the Cardinal returns starting corners Leigh Torrence and Stanley Wilson and strong safety Oshiomogho Atogwe, last year's leading tackler. The Cardinal returns just three starters on offense and will have to rely on a group of young players to mature quickly, especially on the offensive line. Early departures to the NFL by all-conference tackle Kwame Harris - a junior in 2002 - and leading receiver Teyo Johnson - a sophomore a year ago - have hurt the team's depth. The returning starters on offense include Chambers at tackle, Alex Smith at tight end and the quarterback tandem of Chris Lewis and Kyle Matter.

Below is a position-by-position breakdown of the 2003 Cardinal: Quarterback - Senior QB Chris Lewis - Chris Lewis played only five games a year ago due to a rotator cuff injury while redshirt freshman Kyle Matter started the other six and received valuable playing experience. The question in 2003 is will Lewis return to the form that has allowed him to throw for 3,168 yards and 25 touchdowns, or will Matter continue to grow and mature into the full-time starter? Or, are any of the three other candidates, junior Ryan Eklund and redshirt freshman Trent Edwards and David Lofton, ready to make a run at the starting job? Teevens would like to name a starter by the end of spring. "It's one of the most competitive positions on the team," he said. "Chris is healthy again from off-season shoulder surgery and Kyle is physically maturing and learning a great deal from his experiences of last year." Lewis is tied for seventh on Stanford's career touchdown list and has a chance to move into the all-time top-10 in virtually every passing category if he becomes the starter in '03. Matter completed 116-of-214 for 1,219 yards and eight touchdowns last season while starting six games, including the last five. Eklund has been a backup for the Cardinal the past two seasons and Edwards and Lofton will be serious contenders for playing time in 2003. "We need to be more consistent at the quarterback position, protect the football better and improve our accuracy in the passing game, " said Teevens.

Running Backs - Junior Kenneth Tolon and sophomore J.R. Lemon return as the team's two experienced running backs. Neither has started or been the team's main rushing threat, but both have shown that they have the potential to fill that role. Tolon has rushed for 692 yards and seven touchdowns the past two seasons and his 5.8 yards per carry average during this time is the best on the team. He has two, 100-yard rushing games in his career. A year ago, he was third on the team with 346 yards on the ground while scoring a team-best four rushing touchdowns. Lemon received his first playing experience last season and showed flashes of his talent. "We need to run the ball more effectively," said Teevens. "Both Kenny and J.R. are capable of becoming every down backs, but we need them to show more consistency and durability." Redshirt freshman Gerald Commissiong, a converted defensive back, is also in the hunt for playing time at running back. At the fullback position, four-year starter Casey Moore has left a void that will be difficult to fill. The trio of returnees looking to earn the number one spot includes senior Cooper Blackhurst, last year's backup, junior Pat Jacobs and sophomore Kris Bonifas.

Wide Receivers -Luke Powell has caught 83 passes for 1,560 yards (18.8 ypc) and 11 touchdowns in his career and is the unquestioned leader of the Cardinal's wide receiver corps. He played at less than 100 percent last season with an ankle injury, but when healthy he is one of the most dangerous players in college football. Junior-to-be Teyo Johnson, the team's leading receiver last year, departed the Farm for the NFL Draft, leaving with two years of eligibility remaining. A year ago, juniors Greg Camarillo and Nick Sebes and sophomores Grant Mason and Gerren Crochet received playing time in a reserve role. Mason finished fifth on the team with 23 receptions while Camarillo had eight catches, Crochet caught five balls and Sebes missed a month of the season with a knee injury. Tight Ends - Stanford found itself thin at the tight end spot in 2002 after starter Brett Pierce was lost for the year in the season opener and true freshman Matt Traverso suffered a season-ending injury in the second game of the year. That left Alex Smith as the starter and only experienced tight end on the team. Smith responded brilliantly by catching 30 passes, second best on the team, for 380 yards (12.7 ypc) and two touchdowns while starting the final 10 games of the year. With Pierce, a fifth-year senior and starter in 2001, and Traverso now healthy, Stanford enters the '03 campaign with three quality tight ends. Pierce has caught 26 passes for 299 yards (11.5 ypc) and three touchdowns in his career and was considered one of the best tight ends in the Pac-10 before his injury. Traverso is a talented second-year player who adds quality depth to the tight end position.

Offensive Line - Three-year starter Kirk Chambers returns to anchor an offensive line that must rebuild with young players after losing four starters off last year's team. Chambers has started every game at left tackle over the past three years (34 straight) and enters the 2003 season among the best in the Pac-10. The early departure of First-Team All-Pac-10 tackle Kwame Harris to the NFL was a key loss for the Cardinal. Harris, winner of last year's Morris Trophy as the top lineman in the Pac-10, still had one more year of eligibility remaining. Surrounding Chambers will be a cast of young, inexperienced but highly motivated and talented players hungry for their chance to compete for a starting spot. "We'll need Kirk Chambers to provide great leadership along with solid play up front," says Teevens. "There are questions that remain with the offensive line due to the limited number of players with game experience. With so many young faces, one of our primary challenges as a coaching staff this spring will be to develop these young players and get them ready to play in September." The only two players with game experience other than Chambers are senior Mike Sullivan and sophomore Brian Head. The Cardinal's freshman class a year ago included seven offensive linemen, some of whom will find their way into the starting lineup in 2003. Chambers will start at left tackle with freshman Matt McClernan backing him up. At left guard, redshirt freshmen David Beall and Ismael Simpson will compete for the to spot. Another pair of redshirt freshmen will battle for the starting spot at right guard: Jeff Edwards and Josiah Vinson. Sullivan and redshirt freshman Jon Cochran are the two candidates at right tackle with Head and redshirt freshman Tim Mattran competing at center. "We will rely heavily on last year's freshman class," says Teevens.

Defensive Line - The Cardinal returns two starters and experienced players at the end positions, but need to shore up the middle of their defensive line after losing both starters off last year's team. At the end positions, returning starters Amon Gordon and Louis Hobson return along with 2002 letter-winners senior Drew Caylor, junior Will Svitek and sophomore Julian Jenkins. All five players spent time in the starting lineup a year ago. Gordon, a junior, has five sacks and 12 tackles for loss in his career while Hobson, who started eight games last season, is the team' s leading returning tackler on the defensive line. Caylor started three games, Svitek three before being moved to tight end and Jenkins, a true freshman in 2002, started one and became a valuable reserve as one of two true freshman to earn a letter a year ago. Sophomore Michael Lovelady and redshirt freshman Chris Gaines add depth at defensive end and will be in the hunt for increased playing time. Inside, the Cardinal must replace starting tackle Matt Leonard and nose tackle Trey Freeman. Junior Scott Scharff and sophomore Casey Carroll lettered a year ago at tackle and will compete for the starting spot in 2003. Sophomore Babatunde Oshinowo was impressive in a reserve role last year at nose tackle and is the leading contender to start in '03. Senior Ian Shelswell will battle Oshinowo for playing time at NT. "We need to generate a greater pass rush and have more consistent play along the defensive line," says Teevens. "Our inside guys have to play at a higher level. We have some players at the end positions who have tremendous athletic potential and it will be crucial for them to continue to improve and heighten their play."

Linebackers - The Cardinal returns its top six linebackers from a year ago and will begin the 2003 campaign with an experienced, season corps from which to choose. Both outside linebacker positions and the middle linebacker spot will be very competitive. For the record, Stanford returns all three starters in OLBs Jon Alston and David Bergeron and MLB Jake Covault. However, all six returnees spent time in the starting lineup last year. Make no mistake, sophomore Michael Craven, junior Jared Newberry and senior Brian Gaffney will be in the hunt for starting roles in 2003. "We have some depth and experience at the linebacker positions," says Teevens. "A year ago, they were a young, inexperienced group. Now, we expect them to play like seasoned veterans." Covault, the only senior in the group along with Brian Gaffney, led the linebacking corps with 52 tackles last season while starting nine games at MLB. Gaffney started the final two games of the year, finishing with 27 tackles. Bergeron, now a junior, was Stanford's starting OLB in 10 games last season. He will be moved to MLB for the '03 campaign. At the outside positions, the battle for the two starting spots is likely to be among Alston, Craven and Newberry. Alston started five games last year as a redshirt freshman and finished with 30 tackles and two tackles for loss. Craven started the first four games of the '02 season. He finished the year with 28 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss and one interception return for a touchdown. Newberry, a starter in three games, had 45 total stops, 4.5 tackles for loss and three sacks. Also in the hunt for playing time, both on defense and on special teams, are sophomore Capp Culver and redshirt freshmen Mike Silva and Taualai Fonoti. "We need greater consistency and play-making capability from our linebackers," says Teevens.

Secondary - Three starters are back in 2003, including corners Leigh Torrence and Stanley Wilson, and strong safety Oshiomogho Atogwe, but a question remains at free safety. Wilson and Torrence, both juniors, started all 11 games last year while redshirt freshman T.J. Rushing came off the bench as the team's third corner. That provides the Cardinal with three solid players from which to build. Torrence had three interceptions, five pass breakups and 38 total tackles last year, Wilson had two interceptions, six pass break ups and 32 tackles while Rushing had two INTs, 21 tackles and four tackles for loss. Atogwe led the team in tackles last year with 71 and was Stanford's most active player on defense. He also chipped in with three interceptions, one fumble recovery, three forced fumbles, four pass break ups, one sack and one tackle for loss in starting all 11 games. "We expect to perform at a higher level in 2003," said Teevens. "With three starters back, we have a more experienced, veteran group who continued to make progress last year." The starting role at free safety will be a battle between sophomores Kevin Schimmelmann and Timi Wusu, and redshirt freshman Trevor Hooper and Bryan Bentrott. Both Schimmelmann and Wusu played a reserve role last year and earned letters, mainly for their play on special teams. Sophomores Calvin Armstrong and Nick Silvas and redshirt freshman Marcus McCutcheon will also be competing for playing time at the cornerback positions.

UCLA

HEAD COACH: KARL DORRELL

There's a great deal of young talent to build around. The backfield features sophomores at quarterback and running back, while the receiving corps could turn into one of the Pac 10's best if Drew Olson or Matt Moore can get them the ball. They'll all have to get used to a new offensive system that'll strive for as much balance as possible. Quarterbacks - Drew Olson, Soph. - When Cory Paus was knocked out last season, Olson and fellow sophomore Matt Moore took over the starting duties. Olson started the final five games of the season with varying degrees of success playing well in a road win over Washington but predictably struggled at times. There were signs that he was in for a big game in the Las Vegas Bowl before banging his hand off a helmet. He's an athletic quarterback adding mobility to the position. Top Backups Matt Moore, Soph. - Moore started against Stanford throwing for 142 yards and a touchdown, and took over against New Mexico after Olson hurt his hand. He has the strongest arm of the all the Bruin quarterbacks. John Sciarra, Soph. - The clear number three behind Olson and Moore, Sciarra has a bit of experience seeing time in five games last season.

Running Backs - Tyler Ebell, Soph. - One of the nation's best young backs, Ebell tore off at least 100 yards in six straight games last season. With the season slipping away and the Bruins struggling behind their freshman quarterbacks, Ebell took over the offense after the fifth game. He's only 171 pounds, but he was able to handle the workload last year. Fullback Manuel White, Jr. - One of the team's multi-talented backs, the 247-pound White will line up at fullback, but has the speed and skill to play a little tailback. He suffered a hamstring pull last year missing time during the middle of the season. Top Backups Akil Harris, Sr. - Harris started the first four games of last season before giving way to Ebell. He has nice power to go along with his speed, and is a solid option to give Ebell a spell. Wendell Mathis, Soph. - Mostly a special teams player, Mathis carried the ball 18 times for 50 yards on the year. He might be the teams fastest back. Fullback J.D. Groves, Soph. - When White lines up at tailback, it'll be up to Groves and junior Pat Norton to take over the blocking duties. The 240-pound Groves took over the job in the middle of last year when White hurt his hamstring.

Receivers - Craig Bragg, Jr. - Bragg is growing into a star. At 6-2, he has nice size to go along with his blazing speed. One of the league's top deep threats, 14 of his 15 career touchdown catches has come from beyond 22 yards. On pace to be UCLA's all-time leading receiver, he can catch the short stuff too finishing last year with 55 grabs. He's also a great punt returner. Tab Perry, Sr. - As good as Bragg is at catching the deep ball, Perry is better averaging a Pac 10 best 19.9 yards per catch. At 6-3 and 215 pounds, he has prototype NFL size to go along with his speed. Tight end Keith Carter, Soph. - It'll be up to Carter to replace the talents of Mackey Award finalist Mike Seidman. Carter played in the last ten games of 2002 making five catches. In a pinch, he can play fullback as well. He was hurt in a motorcycle accident dislocating his hip. He's supposed to be fine, but it remains to be seen if he can go this season. Top Backups Junior Taylor, Soph. - Taylor can flat out fly. He made 14 catches last year and will push Perry for playing time at flanker. - Ryan Smith, Sr. - Smith has to overcome surgery to his ankle and is needed to add experienced depth to the receiving corps. Hampered by his bum ankle, he only caught five passes in 2002. Tight end Marcedes Lewis, Soph. - A better receiver than Carter, Lewis will battle all season for playing time. He's much too good a prospect to keep off the field.

Offensive Line - Tackle Ed Blanton, Soph. - After playing behind Mike Saffer last year, Blanton should be ready to take over at left tackle. He started against San Diego State when Saffer went down. He's already a great pass blocker, but has to use his 325 pounds a little bit better in his run blocking. Guard Eyoseph Efseaff, Jr. - Efseaff has become one of the Pac 10's best guards. A crushing run blocker who works as hard as anyone on the line, Efseaff will return to his spot on the left side. Center Mike McCloskey, Soph. - McCloskey started every game last year as a redshirt freshman. An athletic player with an ability to move, he still has a little room to get bigger and should progress into an all-star candidate. Guard Steven Vieira, Jr. - Vieira started every game last year at right guard. Technically, he might be the line's best blocker. Tackle Paul Mociler, Jr. - It'll be up to Mociler to take over the right tackle job, but he can play anywhere on the line. He's experienced as the main backup last year for every spot. Top Backups G Robert Cleary, Soph. - The 6-7, 304-pound mountain will back up Mociler on the right side. UCLA's defense will be geared around its speed and athleticism using more blitzes and attacking the ball more.

With seven returning starters, a great secondary, solid pass rushers and speedy linebackers, this will be a defense to watch. Defensive - Defensive end Dave Ball, Sr. - Ball was a second-team All-Pac 10 player last year leading the team with 11 sacks and 15 tackles for loss. The new defensive scheme should showcase his talents leading to a huge statistical season. Defensive tackle Rodney Leslie, Sr. - Leslie should probably be in the NFL right now. He's the All-America-level rock in the middle returning after missing five games last year with a broken foot. Defensive tackle Ryan Boschetti, Sr. - Boschetti filled in after Leslie went down making 23 tackles. He'll get the first shot next to Leslie in the middle. Defensive end Mat Ball, Sr. - A reserve for most of last year, Ball will get the first shot to play on the other side of his brother. A former outside linebacker, he has nice quickness on the end. Top Backups - DE Asi Faoa, Sr. - Faoa will be the top reserve at both ends. He made 24 stops last year. DE David Tautofi, Sr. - Another nice backup at end, Tautofi will see more of a role this season after only playing in five games last year. DT C.J. Niusulu, Soph. - Without much depth at tackle, Niusulu has to become a major factor. At 300 pounds, Niusulu provides the most beef in the tackle rotation.

Linebackers - Brandon Chillar, Sr. - The best of combination of size and speed of all the Bruin linebackers, Chillar has the quickness to drop into pass coverage and the size to stop the run. He was third on the team last year with 74 tackles on the strong side. Dennis Link, Sr. - Link will be battling Justin London for the starting job in the middle. He backed up Marcus Reese last year making ten tackles. Spencer Havner, Soph. - The team's leading returning tackler, Havner made 96 stops and three interceptions on the weak side. He's not all that big, but he's extremely athletic. Top Backups Marcus London, Soph - London is neck and neck with Link for the starting job in the middle. He made five tackles last year in a reserve role. Tim Warfield, Jr. - Warfield provides even more depth in the middle. He saw time in six games last year. Patrick Pierre-Louis, Jr. - He'll be the top backup behind Havner on the weak side. He made 97 tackles as a JUCO player two years ago.

Secondary - Cornerback Matt Ware, Jr. - Ware might be the Pac 10's best kept secret. A superior athlete, Ware played safety during the first part of his career before switching over to corner. He's 6-3, 201 pounds with sprinter's speed and big-time hitting ability. Look for him to take his game up a notch and become one of the better players in the league. Cornerback Matt Clark, Jr. - Clark isn't all that big, but he has great quickness. He'll have to battle with Marcus Cassel and Keith Short for the job on the other side of Ware. It'll be his job to try and replace all-star Ricky Manning Jr. Free safety Ben Emanuel, Jr. - Emanuel started in 12 games last year at free safety after moving from strong safety finishing with 58 tackles and four interceptions. He's an active player that always seems to be around the ball. Strong safety Jarrad Page, Soph. - Page became a godsend for the Bruin secondary. His emergence allowed Ware to shift to corner and Emanuel to free safety. As a true freshman, Page made 43 tackles and two interceptions. Top Backups Free safety Kevin Brant, Sr. - The team's best backup option at safety, Brant made 13 tackles in a reserve role. He'll see time behind Emanuel. Cornerback Glenn Ohaeri, Soph. - The sophomore will be in the mix with Clark for the starting spot on the other side of Ware or could play at strong safety. He has mostly seen time on special teams. Strong safety Jibril Raymo, Soph. - Raymo saw time at free safety as a true freshman making 18 stops and will combine with Eric McNeal to provide the depth at strong safety. Special Teams Placekicker Justin Medlock, RFr. - It'll be Medlock's job to replace Nate Fikse. He has a booming leg, but he has to prove he can hit the clutch kicks like Fikse did. Punter Chris Kluwe, Jr. - Kluwe made punted one ball last year for 44 yards. He can kick it a mile but he hasn't had much chance to show what he can do playing behind two-time All-Pac-10 punter Fikse.

USC

HEAD COACH: PETE CARROLL

There's so much talent here that it's hard to think the offense will be a problem, but there's almost no proven experience in the backfield and little depth at receiver. The offensive line should be among the five best in America with a second team that would be the first string on most teams. The four-way battle at quarterback should continue up until the start of the season. Quarterbacks - Matt Leinart, Soph. - Leinart has a biggest arm or the four competitors for the job, but Billy Hart has more quickness, Matt Cassel has more experience and Brandon Hance has better overall athleticism. At the end of spring ball, Leinart got the nod from head coach Pete Carroll even though the race is still wide open. Top Backups - Matt Cassel, Jr. - You'd think he'd be the number one candidate to take over Carson Palmer's job after he saw a little bit of mop up duty last season, but that's not the case. After backing up Palmer the last two years, he was able to learn the ropes and see how he operated. A big player with a nice arm, Cassel might not be Palmer, but he'd do just fine. Brandon Hance, Jr. - Not to be counted out of the race, the Purdue transfer has the skills to make a run for the starting job. Hance sat out last season and doesn't have nearly the practice time that Cassel has, but has nice mobility. He's having problems with a sore shoulder. Billy Hart, Soph. - A member of the USC baseball team, Hart was asked to stick around spring ball and compete for the job. A great athlete with a nice arm, he needs the practice time to get a fair shot at the position.

Running Backs - Hershel Dennis, Soph. - The running game went somewhat unnoticed last season with all the fireworks coming from the passing game, but it was extremely effective. Now Justin Fargas, Sultan McCullough and Malaefou MacKenzie are gone. The only back with any experience is Dennis and he has to become the star. He's not all that big, but he's extremely quick and very, very talented. The coaching staff thinks he's going to be next great Trojan running back, but at only 175 pounds, he needs some help carrying the load. Brandon Hancock, Soph. - He's big and very fast for a fullback, but he still needs to learn the job. Top Backups Reggie Bush, Fr. - A 2002 Parade All-American, Bush averaged 12.1 yards per carry for his high school team last year. He has nice size and blinding speed finishing third in the 100 meters in the California state championships running a 10.42. Chauncy Washington, Fr. - He had problems with a knee injury last year, but he'll be ready to roll at the start of the season. He's 6-1 and 205 pounds and has been clocked at 10.5 in the 100 meter dash. LenDale White, Fr. - At 225 pounds, White will be the biggest of the incoming backs. A power back, he might see some time at fullback.

Receivers - Mike Williams, Soph. - Few places can lose a receiver like Kareem Kelly and still not have a problem. He wasn't technically listed as a starter last year, but that'll all change for the super sophomore as he's one of college football's brightest young stars. When Williams came on last year, so did Palmer's Heisman campaign finishing with 81 catches for 1,265 yards and 14 touchdowns. Compared to Keyshawn Johnson, Williams has the size and speed to be an All-American this year. Keary Colbert, Sr. - Not to be overlooked in the shadow of Williams, Colbert comes into the season No. 6 on the on the USC career receptions list with 138. While not necessarily a possession receiver, he's the perfect guy to throw to on a big down. Tight end Alex Holmes, Sr. - He's an outstanding pass catcher and could become the team's key third down performer. Holmes is the biggest of the tight ends at 265 pounds and is a fine blocker. Projected Backups D. Hale, Sr. - Hale is a nice player, but not an adequate replacement if Williams of Co lbert goes down. He has one start in his career and caught seven passes in 2001. Sandy Fletcher, Sr. - He's a big receiver with a little bit of experience mostly on special teams. Greig Carlson, Soph. - The hope is that the sophomore can instantly develop into a dependable playmaker. As a punt returner, he averaged 6.6 yards per return. Steve Smith, Fr. - He's almost the perfect college football receiver prospect. A great basketball player, Smith has great all-around athleticism to go along with his 4.4 speed. Gregg Guenther Jr., Jr. The back up tight end has a little bit of experience and at 6-8 with his basketball athleticism could be a factor around the goal line. Dominique Byrd, Soph. - Byrd is yet another athletic player to add to the tight end mix. He caught one pass last year.

Offensive Line - Tackle Jacob Rogers, Sr. - The strength of the good line is at tackle led by Rogers. The 305-pound senior appears to be ready for All-America honors and is a lock to be All-Pac 10. Guard Larry Vandermade, Sr. - Vandermade returns to his spot at left guard, but he's still recovering from a torn biceps and could give way to Eric Torres. Center Norm Katnik, Sr. - Katnik returns for his third year as a starter on the line. He can start at any position, but will get the starting nod at center. Guard Fred Matua, RFr. - This is the only spot that needs tightening up. Matua was going to start last year before spraining his knee. At 305 pounds, he has the size. All he needs is experience. Tackle Winston Justice, Soph. - Justice might be young, but he's not far behind Rogers in talent. He'll start on the right side and could be in the mix for All-Conference honors along with his fellow tackle on the other side. Projected Backups - OT/OG Eric Torres, Sr. - A starter for two years, Torres will be first in the tackle rotation to replace Rogers and Justice if he doesn't end up starting at guard. He'd start for just about every other team in America. OT Nate Steinbacher, Sr. - A former defensive tackle, the 300-pound senior see time behind Justice. He's an athletic tackle that could be a solid player as the year goes on. OG Travis Watkins, Jr. - A shot putter on the track team, the 300-pound Watkins is an experienced guard and a fine backup.

On defense, the front seven could be among the best in America if a playmaker emerges at middle linebacker. The secondary has the potential to be great if the starters can stay healthy and some newcomers can star right away. Defensive Line - Defensive end Omar Nazel, Sr. - Nazel has outstanding speed coming off the edge finishing last year with 6.5 sacks. He's not just a pass rusher, he can make plays in pass coverage as well. - Defensive tackle Mike Patterson, Jr. - He'll primarily play on the nose and should be a lock for All-Pac 10, and possibly All-America, honors. He can play at either tackle position and should be a rock at either spot. Defensive tackle Shaun Cody, Jr. - The 275-pound Cody should emerge as one of the best tackles in America. If necessary, he can play on the end, but he's better in the middle. Even though he's coming off a knee injury, he should be fine for the start of the season. Defensive end Kenechi Udeze, Jr. - Udeze uses his size a little more on the end as a run stopper making 44 tackles. He's not bad at getting into the backfield making 7.5 sacks and 16 tackles for loss. Projected Backups DE Van Brown, Jr. - The 255-pound junior was a backup last year making four tackles and 1.5 sacks. He'll be first in the backup rotation at end. DE Frostee Rucker, Soph. - Rucker will see time on the outside after transferring from Colorado State. If he doesn't play on the end, he could be moved to outside linebacker. DT LaJuan Ramsey, Soph. - With several other players out this spring, Ramsey had a chance to see time on the inside. DT A.J. Single, Jr. - The former defensive end would've been a primary backup in the middle. He missed last year after having problems with a dislocated shoulder, and ended up retiring from the team this spring.

Linebackers - Matt Grootegoed, Jr. - Grootegoed led the team in tackles last year with 81 and should be on everyone's preseason All-Pac 10 list. He also made eight sacks and 16.5 tackles for loss. He always finds a way to get around the ball and will be considered one of the nation's best on the outside. Oscar Lua, Soph. - Lua tore up his knee in the Orange Bowl and won't be ready until the fall, but he'll most likely be the starter if he comes back 100%. At 245 pounds, he adds more bulk to the middle. Melvin Simmons, Sr. - Simmons finished second on the team with 71 stops last season. He's not as good at getting into the backfield as Grootegoed, but he's still a solid All-America candidate. Projected Backups Lofa Tatupu, Soph. - The son of former NFL running back Mosi, is coming off a year off after transferring from Maine. He's only 215 pounds, but he might be the answer on the inside if Lua can't go. Bobby Otani, Jr. - Yet another speedy player in the corps, Otani made ten tackles last season and will mainly back up Grootegoed. Daniel Urquhart, Jr. - The former transfer redshirted last season missing time with an ankle injury followed by an elbow infection. He mostly saw time on the line, but he'll be moved to the middle.

Secondary - Cornerback Marcell Allmond, Sr. - The only returning starter, Allmond should be one of the best in the Pac 10. The former receiver has sensational speed and great size for a corner making 37 tackles and breaking up six passes. Strong safety Darnell Bing, Fr. - A star recruit, Bing was unable to qualify academically and had to sit out all of last year. He's the all-star player of the future for the Trojans and could start right away. Free safety Jason Leach, Jr. - He led the team with four interceptions last year and will be in the mix to start. He's listed as the starter after spring ball, but he could be in for a fight once Will Poole gets in camp. Cornerback Kevin Arbet, Sr. - He missed all of last year with a broken foot. When he was right in 2001, he saw time at corner and as a nickel back. A solid kick returner, Arbet has great quickness and enough athleticism to handle the full-time role. Projected Backups CB/S Will Poole, Sr. - It's asking too much for someone to come in and replace Troy Polamalu, but the Trojans might get a boost from Boston College transfer. Poole, a JUCO All-American last season, is fast enough to play corner and big enough to play safety. CB William Buchanon, Soph. - If Arbet struggles at all, the 6-4 Buchanon, another converted receiver, will get a shot at the job. CB Ronald Nunn, Jr. - Nunn might need a little time recovering from a knee injury. He was the starter last year and a star special teams player before problems with the knee. S Mike Ross, Soph. - He'll combine with Darnell Bing at one of the safety spots. Ross has a little more experience than Bing, but it mostly came on special teams. Special Teams Placekicker Ryan Killeen. Jr. - He's back as a reliable placekicker hitting 16 of 23 field goals taking over the job after mainly handling kickoffs. He has a big leg mainly hitting four of six kicks from 40 to 48 yards. Punter Tom Malone, Soph. - Coming off a great season, Malone averaged 42.1 yards per kick last year with 28 kicks keeping the opponents at or inside the 20.

WASHINGTON

HEAD COACH: RICK NEUHEISEL

The coaching staff wants to get more physical and more two dimensional with a running game to take the pressure off the passing attack. But why? To paraphrase Freddie Bauer, played by John Candy, in the movie Splash, when something works for you, you stick with it. It's not like Washington needs the time of possession. It dominated last year holding the ball more than four minutes more than the opposition. This isn't a run n' shoot offense, it's a very effective passing attack that should be just as strong with the return of quarterback Cody Pickett and receiver Reggie Williams. There's talent in the backfield, so now the veteran offensive line has to open some holes. Quarterbacks - Cody Pickett, Sr. - It's easy to look at Pickett's numbers and simply think that he's a product of a top passing system, but that's simply not true. He has matured from a good quarterback into a sensational decision maker reading things far better than he did earlier in his career. The evidence? He threw the ball 311 more times in 2002 than he did in 2001, but he didn't throw any more interceptions while pitching 18 more touchdown passes. Now that he's a senior, expect an All-America caliber season with even more fireworks and more wins. Top Backups Casey Paus, Soph. - Paus, the younger brother of former UCLA quarterback Cory, is a dropback passer who'll get plenty of practice reps being groomed to be the star of the future. He has a good arm, but little to no mobility compared to Stanback. Isaiah Stanback, RFr. - Stanback isn't nearly the passer that Pickett or Paus is, but he can run. He struggled at times this spring throwing the ball, but the coaching staff still thinks he can end up being the number two quarterback this fall. If not, he might see time at receiver to utilize his speed and athleticism.

Running Backs - Rich Alexis, Sr. - Alexis is an experienced back with good size and great hands. Now he has to be more productive. He led the team with 688 yards and ten touchdowns, but he only averaged 3.4 yards per carry and disappeared at times. Granted, it's easy to lose momentum in an offense that passes as much as this one does. He missed this spring recovering from surgery on his shoulder. Fullback Zach Tuiasosopo, Jr. - The former linebacker has emerged as a top fullback. He's not much of a ball carrier, but he can be a power back for a yard or two, and can be used as a receiver out of the backfield if needed. He should be one of the better blocking fullbacks in the Pac 10. Top Backups - Chris Singleton, Jr. - As one of the only healthy tailbacks on the roster this spring, Singleton saw a ton of time and could grow into one of the better runners. He led the backs with a 3.5 yard per carry average last year rushing for 224 yards and a touchdown. He's a smart player with good overall skills. Kenny James, RFr. - On straight talent, James is the best Husky running back. He suffered a scare this spring with a sprained knee, but the coaching staff is hoping he'll be able to provide some pop at some point this year. Shelton Sampson, RFr. - Fast, fast, fast. The 175-pound back isn't going to run over anyone, but no one will catch him once he gets past the line. Ty Eriks, Soph. - Ericks moves from outside linebacker to fullback. He should be a good one with more work.

Receivers - Reggie Williams, Jr. - Williams was very good freshman receiver catching 55 passes for 973 yards and three touchdowns. Last year, he became an All-America superstar as an unstoppable receiving machine making 94 grabs for 1,454 yards and 11 touchdowns. He's big, physical, fast, and very, very productive when he was needed the most. No Pac 10 receiver has ever put up better two-year numbers as a freshman and sophomore. His signature game was a 12 catch, 169-yard performance against rival Washington State going against NFL first-round draft pick Marcus Trufant. Oh yeah, he can also block. Charles Frederick, Jr. - The perfect complement to Williams, Frederick is a fixture in the receiving corps after some rocky times in and out of the team's doghouse. He has good size and tremendous deep speed averaging 14.5 yards per catch highlighted by a 74-yard score. He's also one of the team's top kick returners with a 10.6 career punt return average and an 18.9 kickoff return average. Tight end Joe Toledo, Soph. - The 6-6, 290-pound Toledo is the listed as the starter, but he was out this spring with a shoulder problem and could have a fight for the No. 1 slot. He's huge and a good target catching three passes for 19 yards in a reserve role. Top Backups Justin Robbins, Jr. - Robbins has a world of talent, but he's had bad luck with injuries missing time with a torn up knee, a bum hamstring and a myriad of shoulder problems. He had a strong freshman season catching 22 passes for 207 yards and four touchdowns. He looks like he'll be a top backup behind Williams. Jordan Slye, RFr. - The 6-5, 195-pound redshirt freshman adds another huge receiver to the mix. He won't take over a starting job, but he has enough talent to see plenty of action behind Frederick. Tight end Ben Bandel, RFr. - At 6-7, 270 pounds, Bandel is another huge tight end in the mix. Looking more like he's ready to go surfing than he is to become top playmaker, he has been good enough to stay ahead of star recruit Jon Lyon on the depth chart. He's turning into a good all-around tight end.

Offensive Line - Tackle Khalif Barnes, Jr. - There's going to be lots of shuffling and movement along the line, but Barnes will stay put as the team's weak tackle with 25 straight starts. He's a smart, strong and quick player as one of the team's best pass blockers. Guard Nick Newton, Sr. - Newton spent most of last year starting as the team's strong side tackle. As one of the UW's most talented and versatile linemen, the 6-5, 330-pound Newton will initially move inside to play at the weak guard spot. Center Dan Dicks, Jr. - An experienced player at both guard and center, the 315-pound junior will start the season in the middle showing great promise filling in for Todd Bachert this spring. Guard Rob Meadow, Soph. - Meadow is one of the new starters in the mix. He'll play guard after spending last season backing up Newton at tackle. He started in two games showing great potential. Look for him to be a fixture on the line for the next three years. Tackle Todd Bachert, Sr. - One of the best centers in the Pac 10, Bachert has seen some time at tackle. Even though he's a Rimington Award candidate at center, he'll play at strong tackle giving the line an experienced and talented player on the strong side. He's expected to be back at 100% after having problems with his shoulder this spring. Top Backups G Clay Walker, RFr. - The initial plan was to get Walker time at center with Bachert hurt this spring. Instead, he'll see time at guard pushing Meadow for time. C Brad Vanneman, Soph. - Even though he missed spring ball with a foot injury, he'll get the backup job behind Dicks. G Aaron Butler, Jr. - The 320-pound junior was good enough to find a spot somewhere, but he left the team to go to culinary arts school. The Skinny: The line is experienced and has a little bit of talent, but it has to be more physical and needs to turn into one of the team's strengths. Even though UW threw the ball 621 times, 37 sacks are a lot to give up. There was no push whatsoever for the running game, so look for new line coach Dan Cozzetto to try and make this a more physical group.

The Huskies were great against the run, but some of that was because teams spent most of its time bombing away on the secondary. To be fair, the front seven did hold opposing running games to a paltry 2.8 yards per carry, and should be almost as strong again this year. The secondary could be better with the return of Roc Alexander at one corner and the emergence of Derrick Johnson at the other. The safeties have to stay healthy and must come through with big seasons. Defensive Line - Defensive end Graham Lasee, Soph. - Lasee will get the first shot at trying to replace Kai Ellis. While he might not instantly be the playmaker that Ellis was, Lasee should grow into a strong player with several other players taking away most of the attention. Defensive tackle Tui Alailefaleula, Jr. - The 310-pound junior has bulked up to be one of the bigger players on the Washington offensive line. He's been a reserve in his first two years making seven tackles. After some thought about putting him on the offensive line, he'll stay at tackle. Defensive tackle Terry Johnson, Sr. - Even though he's 285 pounds, Johnson can move. Also recruited as a volleyball player, he's fast, strong and very athletic. He's hard for any slow offensive lineman to handle. He made 25 tackles, five sacks and 9.5 tackles for loss. Defensive end Manase Hopoi, Soph. - What Hopoi lacks in overall athleticism, he makes up for in size and talent. Even though he's not all that fast, he finds ways to get into the backfield making seven sacks and 17 tackles for loss. He's simply a very good football player. Top Backups DT/DE Josh Miller, Jr. - One of the rocks on the line, Miller made 33 tackles last season. He's having problems with a bad back that could cost him this year. - DE Jerome Stevens, Jr. - More than just a backup, he was the third man in when one of the tackles needed a break. He has ten games of experience making 50 career tackles. He'll back up Alailefaluela.

Linebackers - Greg Carothers, Sr. - Carothers was one of the team's best defensive players as a safety making 84 tackles last year. He hits like a linebacker, but he also covers like one, so he should be more natural as an outside linebacker. He's always all over the field making plays, so look for his tackle total to go through the roof now that he gets to attack a little more. He should have a ton of tackles for loss. Joe Lobendahn, Jr. - The 5-10, 225-pound Lobendahn will try and replace Ben Mahdavi and hit 100 tackles on the inside. He started two games in the middle making 23 tackles showing he can be a top run defender. He's not Mahdavi, but he should do just fine. Marquis Cooper, Sr. - The 210-pound Cooper is one of the best athletes in the UW linebacking corps, and one of the best tacklers. He tied for the team lead with 100 stops last season to go along with 13 tackles for loss and three sacks growing into a strong linebacker as the year went on. Even though he had a sore shoulder this spring, he should be fine for the start of the season. Top Backups Tim Galloway, Jr. - Galloway played in every game backing up Mahdavi in the middle. He'll push Lodendahn for the starting job with good experience and a nice nose for the ball. Tyler Krambrink, Sr. - Krambrink will move from the middle to the outside to backup Carothers on the strong side. He isn't all that big and hasn't seen a ton of time making 28 career tackles.

Secondary - Cornerback Derrick Johnson, Jr. - Johnson became a solid corner last year after missing all of 2001 with a foot injury. By the end of last year, he was the team's most dependable defensive back finishing with 56 tackles, five interceptions and ten broken up passes. Free safety Jimmy Newell, Jr. - Newell couldn't stay healthy last season only able to play in eight games dislocating two fingers against Michigan and hurting his knee later on in the year. He still made 26 tackles looking like a decent safety prospect. Strong safety Evan Benjamin, Soph. - Benjamin became a valuable reserve last season making 46 tackles and an interceptions filling in when injuries hit. His season ended a little bit early with a sprained ankle, but he's expected to become one of the bigger hitters in the secondary. - Cornerback Roc Alexander, Sr. - Alexander missed most of last season with a shoulder injury. He'll return to take over his starting corner spot giving the secondary a good sized corner with experience and speed. With four career interceptions and 15 broken up passes, he'll be great on one side. Top Backups Free safety James Sims, Soph. - Sims stepped in at free safety when Newell went down and made 35 tackles. He's a smart player who, surprisingly, didn't make too many mistakes as a freshman under fire. In fact, the pass defense improved when he was in. Strong safety Owen Biddle, Sr. - Biddle has been a valuable backup making 62 tackles over the last two seasons. He played well in the Sun Bowl and made a key interception against Washington State. Cornerback Chris Massey, Sr. - Massey was the team's nickel back coming in to make 24 tackles and two interceptions. He's an experienced player who can fill in at either corner spot if needed. Special Teams - Placekicker Evan Knudson, Jr.or Michael Braunstein, Fr. - For now, Knudsen has the kicking job, but Washington doesn't have the situation figured out yet hoping that Braunstein can take over the gig when he arrives this fall. Punter Sean Douglas, Fr. - The all-state kicker from Nebraska had better be ready to roll from the word go, otherwise Washington will have to hope a walk-on can fill the void left by Derek McLaughlin who left to go on a two-year Mormon mission. McLaughlin was fine, but wasn't anything special.

WASHINGTON STATE

HEAD COACH: BILL DOBA

Even with the loss of several key stars, the offense should be fine as long as quarterback Matt Kegel can step in for Jason Gesser and produce. The running backs are strong working behind a good offensive line. The receiving corps should be good if the top prospects can develop to take the heat off of Devard Darling. Quarterbacks -Matt Kegel, Sr. - Kegel has always put up big practice numbers, now he appears ready to take over the starting job formerly held down by All-American Jason Gesser. Kegel has more mobility and has better overall skills than Gesser, but he has to prove he has the leadership and the magical quality that Gesser had. He has seen enough time on the field and in practice to be ready to shine. Top Backups- Chris Hurd, Soph. - Hurd is an even better athlete than Kegel with a great arm and good all-around ability. What he doesn't have is Kegel's experience but he's a good prospect and a fine No. 2. - Josh Swogger, RFr. - The 6-5, 243-pound Swogger has a huge arm and is an intriguing player cause of his size. He won't win the starting job, but look for him to establish himself as one of the team's rising stars.

Running Backs - Jermaine Green, Sr. - The JUCO transfer came in and made an immediate impact leading the team with 829 yards and nine touchdowns averaging 5.5 yards per carry. He's a big back with great breakaway speed. In this offense, he won't be asked to be the workhorse, but he could be if needed. He isn't a great receiver, but he's good enough making 15 catches for 176 yards and two touchdowns. Top Backups Jonathan Smith, Sr. - Smith doesn't have the power that Green has, but he's a little bit faster. He got bigger in the off-season to take more of a pounding after rushing for 284 yards and five touchdowns last year. Allen Thompson, Soph. - Thompson didn't do much having problems with an injured shoulder. When he's in, he provided even more speed to the running back corps.

Receivers - Devard Darling, Jr. - Darling is 6-3, physical and runs a 4.4 40. He turned into a top receiver leading the Cougars with 11 touchdowns and finished second on the team with 54 grabs for 800 yards. He goes from being part of a good receiving corps, to becoming the number one target sure to draw every opposing team's full attention. Sammy Moore, Sr. - The former JUCO star didn't get a chance to see much action last year, but he blew up when he did averaging 30.7 yards per catch on seven grabs with one touchdown. He has tremendous speed and good size. Scott Lunde, Sr. - It isn't quite fair to call Lunde a possession receiver, but he was able to find the seams and make plays underneath while the other receivers were able to get deep. He averaged 12.1 yards per catch making 30 grabs for 364 yards and a touchdown. Tight end Troy Bienemann, Soph. - Bienemann is a solid pass catching tight end making 15 catches for 233 yards and a touchdown as a true freshman. He has great athleticism, and is growing into a decent blocker as he gets bigger and sees more time. Top Backups Trandon Harvey, Soph. - Harvey is a great athlete with speed and jumping ability. He only caught two passes last year for 35 yards, and now he'll be one of the top deep threats on the outside behind Moore. Marty Martin, Soph. - Martin saw time in every game last season, and now he appears to be ready to be a top backup behind Lunde. He made two catches for thirty yards in the spring game capping a good spring. Tight end Adam West, Soph. - West is a tremendous athlete. Now he has to grow into a strong tight end playing behind Bienemann after seeing a little bit of time last year.

Offensive Line - Tackle Calvin Armstrong, Jr. - Armstrong continues to be one of the best offensive linemen in the country. The 6-8, 315-pound junior has been a starter for the last two years as a tremendous pass blocker. Against Arizona State's Terrell Suggs, he allowed a sack, but he more than held his own over the course of the rest of the game. He'll only get better with more time in the weight room. Guard Josh Parrish, Sr. - Parrish is a 322-pound veteran with years of starting experience. He has to come back from a broken leg, and he must get his grades in order, but if all is fine, he'll be on of the team's better run blockers playing on the left side. Center Mike Shelford, Sr. - Shelford has gotten bigger growing into a 275-pound monster in the middle. He has a little bit of experience, but he needs to battle Nick Mihlhauser for the starting job. Guard Billy Knotts, Sr. - Knotts is a tall, big guard overcoming a knee problem in 2001 to be a solid starter. He's also one of the smartest players on the team. Tackle Sam Lightbody, Jr. - The misnomer named Lightbody is 6-9 and 310 pounds returning to the line have having problems with a broken hand and a pinched neck nerve last year. He's a veteran with decent feet for a player of his size. Top Backups G Riley Fitt-Chappell, Soph. - He filled in last season when injuries hit the line starting five games. He's another big body in the mix able to play either guard spot. G Norvell Holmes, Soph. - The 295-pound Holmes saw time this spring when Parrish was out. If something happens, Holmes should be able to step in and play right away without much of a problem. T Patrick Afif, Jr. - The star JUCO recruit would be an instant starter if it wasn't for Armstrong and Lightbody holding down the tackle spots. Afif is a 6-8, 320-pound star playing behind Armstrong.

The defense will be strong even after losing Rien Long and Marcus Trufant. The run defense should once again be among the best in the Pac 10 with a tremendous front seven. The secondary is experienced, but it has to be better than it was last year when it gave up over 255 yards per game. Defensive Line - Defensive end Isaac Brown, Sr. - With 19.5 career sacks, Brown is one of the best, unknown pass rushers in the Pac 10. He's built more like an outside linebacker using his speed and quickness to make plays off the edge. He's a solid tackler, but he can be pushed a bit against the run. Defensive tackle Jeremey Williams, Sr. - With Rien Long gone, Williams is the leader of the line. The 284-pound senior is big and athletic making 47 tackles and five sacks. It'll be up to him to fill the void left by Long as the most active player in the middle. Defensive tackle Tai Tupai, Sr. - Tupai was a very big, and very valuable reserve last season making 11 tackles and 3.5 tackles for loss. He has gotten in better shape over the last year going from 343 to 318 pounds, but he's still the biggest defensive lineman on the team. Defensive end D.D. Acholonu, Sr. - Acholonu isn't listed as a returning starter, but he might as well be with 16 career sacks and 25 career tackles for loss. He's a bigger end than Brown with a good first step. Projected Backups DE Adam Braidwood, Soph. - Braidwood has gotten bigger adding a 260-pound end to the line. He was a solid back making 14 tackles and 2.5 sacks last year. DT Steve Cook, Jr. - Cook is a very active, good-sized tackle backing up Tupai on the right side. He's 286 pounds and experienced making 12 tackles.

Linebackers - Al Genatone, Sr. - Genatone will have to battle with Pat Bennett for the starting job on the weak side. With 72 career tackles, Genatone is an experienced player coming back from having a few injury problems in 2001 to be solid on the outside. Don Jackson, Sr. - Jackson will have to take over for Mawuli Davis and his 78 tackles on the inside. The 220-pound Jackson has a little experience making 16 tackles after transferring from Grossmont Junior College. Despite his limited playing time last year, he's expected to step in and be one of the team's leading tacklers. Will Derting, Soph. - Even though he missed five games with a high ankle spring, he still made 46 tackles, 3.5 sacks and three interceptions. He's tremendous at dropping back into pass coverage, and good at getting into the backfield from the strong side. Projected Backups - Pat Bennett, Jr. - Bennett is one of the smartest players on the team, and he's also experienced making 44 tackles seeing time on the weak side. If he doesn't overtake Genatone, he'll at least split time. Ira Davis, Sr. - Davis is one of the most experienced backups on the team making 30 stops last year. He'll be pushed for the backup job behind Derting on the strong side by Scott Davis.

Secondary - Cornerback Karl Paymah, Jr. - Paymah isn't Marcus Trufant, no one is, but he has the size, speed and athleticism to be an effective corner. He saw a little bit of time last season making 25 tackles and breaking up three passes, now look for him to shine in a full-time role. Strong safety Virgil Williams, Sr. - Williams and Erik Coleman formed one of the better safety tandems in the Pac 10 last year. Returning for another year, Williams is the big intimidator in the defensive backfield making 74 tackles last year. He had problems early in his career with injuries hurting a shoulder and pulling a hamstring, but he proved to be a force once he's healthy. Free safety Erik Coleman, Sr. - Even though he had problems with his shoulder, Coleman used his cornerback speed to become one of the best playmaking safeties in the Pac 10 leading the Cougars with 86 tackles. He's a good hitter that should once again be a tremendous leader in the secondary. Cornerback Jason David, Sr. - With everyone avoiding Trufant, David had plenty of chances to make plays. He came through big-time leading the nation in interceptions per game with seven in ten games. He's only 5-8 and might get picked on again, and once again, he'll come through. Projected Backups FS Jeremy Bohannon, Jr. - Bohannon has been a valuable backup making 24 tackles and a sack last year. He has good speed and decent hitting ability as Coleman's backup. SS Hamza Abdullah, Jr. - One of the biggest safeties on the team, he overcame a knee injury to make nine tackles as a backup. Special Teams Placekicker Drew Dunning. Sr. - Dunning has been outstanding hitting 22 of 33 field goals last year and 40 of 55 kicks over the last two years. He had a few problems with his consistency, but there's no reason to think he won't be one of the better kickers in the Pac 10 again. Punter Kyle Basler, Soph. - Basler came through as a freshman bombing away averaging 41.1 yards per kick and putting 15 inside the 20. He'll be a star for the next three years.

CONFERENCE USA

ALABAMA-BIRMINGHAM

HEAD COACH: WATSON BROWN

A quick glance at the 2003 UAB football roster might lead some observers to think the Blazers are pointing more toward the 2004 season than the one that looms just months away. After all, UAB had 23 seniors on its roster last fall and will feature but eight — and just five on scholarship — in 2003. On the other hand, there are 26 juniors listed on the roster for the upcoming season. But don’t tell Blazer head coach Watson Brown his team is still a year away. Brown knows his team can’t afford to think along those lines, not with his team facing perhaps its most challenging schedule in the program’s history. At the same time, Brown is quick to point out that while his team, by class, offers a youthful look, it also has plenty of players with significant game experience. Brown and the Blazers are fortunate to be “really good” at quarterback where Darrell Hackney (6-2, 235, So.) returns after bursting onto the scene last fall as he made a memorable and immediate impact in Conference USA. Hackney became the UAB starter in the season’s fifth game and finished the year with 1,977 passing yards and 14 touchdowns despite battling injuries the second half of the season. Hackney, with a powerful throwing arm, was the nation’s No. 3-rated fresh-man signal-caller in pass efficiency last season and went on to earn C-USA Freshman-of-the Year by The Sporting News.

Keeping Hackney healthy will be a priority as the Blazers’ backup quarterback will be unproven and untested. A pair of red-shirt freshmen, Curtis Falany (6-1, 190) and Chris Williams (6- 0, 195), will compete for the No. 2 job, as could highly-touted true freshman, Jake Tompkins (6-2, 210) of Russellville, Ala. The running game should be improved, if for no other reason that the three backs who accounted for 1,333 of the team’s 1,564 total rushing yards all return. Dan Burks (6-0, 200, So.) only made two starts as a true fresh-man in 2002, but down the stretch last season, he was the team’s closest to being the workhorse. Of Burks’ 124 carries last fall, 90 of them came over the season’s last six games as he finished with a team-high 554 yards. Kendal Gibson (5-11, 240, Jr.) ran for 460 yards last season, but more impressively, he has scored 11 offensive rushing touchdowns in his first two seasons. Theron Dudley (6-0, 235, Jr.) gives the Blazer offense another option when it comes to a big back. Dudley ran for 319 yards and three TDs last season. Bo Moncur (5-11, 185, R-Fr.) could also enter the running back picture after a redshirt season in 2002. The UAB receiving corps lost two-year starter Willie Quinnie (36 catches, 627 yards, 6 TDs in 2002) to graduation but returns its leading pass catcher in junior Roddy White (6-2, 190). White emerged last season as the Blazers’ top receiver and big things are expected of the Charleston, S.C. native in 2003. He finished last season with 39 receptions for 580 yards and three touchdowns.

Jhun Cook ( 5 -11, 185, So.) is another Blazer who made an impact as a true fresh-man last fall. The Birmingham product caught 17 balls during the season, and like fellow sophomore Burks, he contributed the most in the latter half of the season. Chico Cleveland (6-2, 210, Jr.) started six games last fall and had 12 catches and a pair of touchdowns. All five of Bradley Chavez’s (6-0, 180, Jr.) receptions came in the season’s last three games and he made the most of the opportunity to get his hands on the ball, averaging 24.2 yards per catch. Lance Rhodes (5-11, 180,So.), a Birmingham native, also is expected to give the Blazers a weapon at receiver as he enters his first season at UAB after transferring from Arizona State. Jason Southall (5-11, 170, Jr.) has seen most of his action with the Blazers as a kick returner, but his elusiveness makes him a threat at receiver as well. Sam Dudley (6-3, 265, Jr.) and Cedric Hampton (6-4, 270, So.) split tight end duty in 2002 with Dudley starting seven games. Look for increased production from the pair this fall from their combined six catches and one touchdown a year ago. The Blazer offensive line could be the best and deepest since Brown became head coach. Four of five starters return, as well as tackle Artavious Williams (6-5, 340, Sr.), who sat out last season for academic reasons. Missing, however, will be Kirk Tuck, who anchored the line the past two seasons from his starting center position and last season, was named second-team All-Conference USA. Wilbert Hamilton (6-4, 295, Sr.) started 11 of 12 games last Dan Burks ran for a team-leading 554 yards as a true freshman in 2002. season at tackle while fellow senior Larry Coachman (6-1, 340) held the starting right guard position in all 12 games. Andy Galloway (6-5, 310, Jr.) was a preseason All-Conference USA selection a year ago and has started 14 games in his first two seasons, primarily at the left guard spot. Anthony Larry (6-4, 290, So.) started six games last season, including the final five at left tackle as a redshirt freshman. The Blazers are also hopeful for a successful comeback from Barker White (6-4, 295, Jr.) who started the season-opening game at Florida last August at right tackle. His season ended, unfortunately, that night in Gainesville when he suffered a torn ACL. He should be in the offensive line mix again in 2003. Matt Batusic (6-2, 275, So.) is expected to take over the starting center duties with the departure of Tuck. Batusic saw a legitimate amount of action in a backup role last season and started the contest at Army when Tuck moved to guard because of injuries to the line. Rodney Outlaw (6-2, 300, Jr.), who enrolled in January after transferring from East Mississippi CC, entered spring practice listed No. 2 at center behind Batusic. Emilio Thompson (6-8, 325, So.), Joey Horne (6-7, 300, R-Fr.), Alan Klinner (6-4, 290, So.) and Paul Linsky (6-4, 290, So.) provide depth on the offensive line, with Linsky being the only one of the four who saw any playing last fall.

Much of the attention in the fall will be devoted to the UAB defense and the transition to the 4-3 scheme implemented by new defensive coordinator Wayne Bolt. Bolt, a veteran defensive mentor, spent the past 12 seasons as defensive coordinator at Troy State after stints at Wyoming (1980), Auburn (1981-85), Clemson (1986-89) and Auburn (1990) again. A fiery competitor, Bolt is known as an excellent game day tactician. In his final season at Troy in 2002, his Trojan defense ranked among the nation’s finest. Last fall, Troy State ranked No. 4 in the country in total defense (276.8 yards per game), No. 13 in rushing defense (105.3) and No. 11 in pass defense (171.6). Though overall the Blazers return seven defensive starters, three of those losses were suffered on the line. Replacing James Malone, Hassan McKeithan and Deijon Hart who had replaced 2002 NFL first-round draft pick Bryan Thomas and second-round choice Eddie Freeman from a year before will be a concern. Shamar Abrams (6-2, 330, Jr.) is the only returning starter on the defensive front after starting 10 games and making 84 tackles in 2002. Anthony Garrett (6-5, 225, So.) and Sam Kendrick (6-5, 245, So.) are expected to contend for one of the end starting jobs after each saw limited action last season. Sam Williamson (6-5, 280, So.) and redshirt freshman Quinton Harris (6-6, 330) will handle the tackle spot with Tony Williams (6-2, 340, So.) and Randal Gibson (6-0, 285, Jr.) also in the picture at nose tackle. Chris Mason (6-3, 235, So.) was moved from linebacker to defensive end last season and saw a respectable amount of action, recording 31 tackles. He’ll get help at end from Shane Pearson (6-6, 260, Sr.).

The Blazers look to have quality at linebacker, though Brown hopes to improve the position’s depth as the 2003 campaign nears. With the new scheme, UAB will put three ‘backers on the field and it’s a good bet that the trio will consist of Zac Woodfin (6-2, 235, Jr.), Nigel Eldridge (6-2, 230, Jr.) and Gaylon Black (6-1, 225, Jr.). Woodfin is quickly emerging as one of the top linebackers in Conference USA. He led the Blazers in tackles last season with 120 and ranked among the national leaders in tackles for loss with 18 en route to picking up second-team all-conference honors. Eldridge was thrust into prominent duty last season after Black was lost with a knee injury three games into the fall. Eldridge finished No. 2 on the team in tackles with 104 and also had seven tackles for a loss and a pair of sacks. Black’s return from injury fits nicely to the Blazers’ move to the 4-3. At the time of his injury, he was the team’s top tackler and in limited duty through two-and-a-half games, he had 32 tackles, two sacks and a 30-yard interception return for a touchdown. DeMarcus Rodgers (6-2, 230, Jr.) and Darrius Taylor (6-0, 230, So.) saw backup duty last year and will enter the 2003 season in the same role. It will also be interesting in the spring and preseason to see how Kyle Bissinger (6-3, 225, R-Fr.) adjusts after moving to linebacker from quarterback prior to spring practice. Brown and his defensive staff may also look for some linebacker help from his recruiting class. One of the signees who could factor into the mix is Vincent Pollard (6-3, 225, Jr.). Pollard enrolled last January and participated in spring practice after attending Middle Georgia College. The secondary returns four players who saw significant starting duty last season but will be without the unit’s best player, All-Conference USA performer Chris Brown, a four-year starter. Dio Hill (5-11, 185, Jr.) started all 12 games at cornerback in 2002 and finished with 54 tackles and a team-leading 13 pass breakups. He’ll get help from Warren Butler (5-11, 185, Sr.) who played his first year at UAB last fall, coming from the junior college ranks. Carlos Hendricks (5-10, 185, Jr.) saw action at both corner and safety last season and was listed No. 1 at right cornerback entering spring drills. He had 50 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, three sacks and three interceptions in 2002. The safeties look to be in solid shape with the return of Thurman Pearson (6-1, 185, Sr.) and Julius Wainwright (6-0, 190, So.). Pearson started 11 games and had 99 tackles, including seven for loss. Wainwright made seven starts and had 40 tackles, earning a spot on the C-USAAll-Freshman Team. Special

ARMY

HEAD COACH: TODD BERRY

The running backs and receivers are relatively talented, but the Black Knights have to settle the quarterback situation and has to pray that an inexperienced line can jell in a hurry. The offense only scored 18.8 points per game last season and should be a bit more potent this year. Quarterbacks - Reggie Nevels, Jr. - Nevels got hurt last season, then he left the team, then he came back after spring ball. He showed nice accuracy in the passing game last year, but he threw five interceptions and only four touchdowns. A good rusher, Nevels ran for 166 pounds. Top Backups Zac Dahman, Soph.- After injuries hit starting quarterback Reggie Nevels, Dahman stepped in as a freshman and was solid throwing for 1,039 yards and nine touchdowns. He has a little bit of mobility, but he's not all that much of a runner used more as a pocket passer. He'll battle Nevels for the starting job. Matt Silva, Jr. - Probably the best pure passer on the team, Silva is being given every chance to win the starting job. With a great arm, he'd probably be the best fit for the offense if he could only stop throwing interceptions. He gave away seven last season and only threw one touchdown pass. Laron Bybee, Soph. - The best athlete among the quarterbacks, Bybee is a big quarterback that could end up seeing plenty of playing time in the rotation.

Running Backs - Carlton Jones, Soph. - Jones became the team's rushing star midway through the 2002 season finishing with 611 yards and four touchdowns. He has nice speed and quickness able to skip to the outside extremely well. If a passing game develops to take the heat off of him, he should have a big season as the team's workhorse back. Top Backups - La'Berrick Williams, Soph. - Williams suffered an early knee injury in spring ball limiting him over the first part of the season. He was never a factor after looking like he'd be the starter before the injury, and now he's pushing for time behind Jones. If right, he has the best combination of speed and power among the backs. D.J. Blackledge, Jr. - At 207 pounds, he's the best power back in the group. He had a great spring and will be used extensively this year. Tyson Roy, Soph. - One of the best receiving backs on the team, he could end up being used as a third down back to utilize his great hands and speed.

Receivers - Aaron Alexander, Jr. - Alexander is a big receiver coming off an injury in his freshman season to became the team's top deep threat averaging 17.5 yards per catch. He was second on the team with 26 catches for 454 yards with two touchdowns. At flanker, he's going to become Army's best receiving weapon. William White, Jr. -The team's best athlete and a great deep threat, White led the team with 30 catches for 384 yards, but he didn't catch a touchdown pass. The former running back and defensive back has come into his own at the Z position. Blaine Cooper, Soph. - When Aris Comeaux went down last season, Cooper stepped in finishing the season with five catches for 54 yards and a touchdown. He was some of the best hands on the team. Tight end Doug Horaist, Jr. - He looks the part and has the physical ability to be a top playmaker, but he hasn't done it yet on the field. He'll need to be a factor in the passing attack right away. Top Backups Clint Woody, Sr. - A 6-5 physical player, Woody gives the offense a big target. He caught seven passes for 70 yards last season. Jacob Murphy, Soph. - Murphy is a big receiver with speed, but he disappeared last season. He played in every game and caught a 78-yard touchdown pass, but he only made one other grab on the year. Ben Barton, Soph. - One of the faster Cadets, he needs to use his open-field skills to become a factor this season. Tight end Chris Montagliani, Jr. -The former quarterback that's still learning the ins and out of the position. He's a decent athlete at 240 pounds.

Offensive Line - Tackle Joel Glover, Jr. - The only returning starter, Glover is one of the quicker linemen on the team and has gotten far stronger. He's growing into a top tackle. Guard Adam Wojcik, Sr. - Wojcik can play both guard and tackle and will mostly concentrate at guard this season. He'll get the first look at left guard. Center David Evetts, Jr. - Evetts moved from guard to center in the off-season and will get the first look at the job. Guard Jake Holly, Jr. - He's not all that big at 277 pounds and will get the firs look at guard. He doesn't have a ton of experience, but the coaching staff thinks he'll be a fine player. Tackle Brad Waudby, Jr. - The 320-pound Waudby will get a shot at right tackle on the other side of Glover. He'll be the biggest lineman of the starters. Top Backups G Andy Dytrych, Jr. - With the guard spots wide open, the 278-pound Dytrych will get every shot at taking over one of the starting jobs. T Regan Tatford, Jr. - One of Army's better backup tackles, he'll push Waudby for time on the right side. - C Josh Davis, Sr. - He'll combine with Justin Troy to back up Evetts in the middle.

The defense has better athletes than it's had in years and now has to stop someone. Completely helpless last season, the Cadets gave up 40.9 points and 393 yards per game last year failing to stop anyone. To be fair, much of the problem was due to an offense that never kept the chains moving, but this year's defense has to be far stronger. Defensive Line - Defensive end Odene Brathwaite, Jr. - Braithwaite made two sacks and 31 tackles last year. At 274-pound he gives the line a nice sized player on the end. For being as big as he is, he has decent speed. Defensive tackle Will Sullivan, Jr. - Sullivan got bigger in the off-season, but he's still only 254 pounds playing in the middle. He moved over from end to tackle and is active enough to be a playmaker at either position. He made 34 tackles and 3.5 sacks in 2002. Defensive tackle Trey Landry, Jr. - Thrown into the fire last year, Landry ended up starting four games and made 16 tackles. It'll be his job to be a run stuffer in the middle. Defensive end Keenan Beasley, Jr. - One of the quicker linemen on the team, the 246-pound Beasely has bulked up and should be stronger against the run. He made 27 tackles last season and 4.5 sacks as one of Army's best pass rushers. Top Backups DT Tommy Ryan, Soph. - At 271 pounds, Ryan is one of the bigger tackles on the team and will push for playing time on the inside. DE Mike Clark, Jr. - After learning the job for two years, Clark is ready to become one of the team's rising stars. He only made eight tackles in a reserve role last season, but he should flourish this year as a situational pass rusher.

Linebackers - Ryan Kent, Sr. - The team's best tackler, Kent made 99 stops last season with three for loss. The leader of the team, he's the one that gets in everyone's face and sets the tone for the defense. As much of a strong safety as he is a linebacker at the "sniper" position, Kent should once again lead the team in tackles. Brian Hill, Sr. - Hill was becoming a decent player before a knee injury cut his season short. He's a quick player in the middle and must return at 100% for the defense to have any hope of being better. Greg Washington, Jr. - Washington is a talented player that couldn't stay healthy last year with an ankle problem. A fast linebacker, he's needed on the inside to get to running backs at the point of attack. He got a little bit bigger in the off-season bulking up to 225 pounds with the hope that he can be more of a physical player. Mikel Resnick, Jr. - It'll be a battle between Resnick and Curt Daniels for one of the outside jobs. A great athlete, Resnick might be too good for Army to keep off the field. He made 59 tackles last season and is decent at getting into the backfield. Top Backups Curt Daniels, Jr. - Daniels can hit with some pop even though he's not all that big. If he doesn't take over on the outside, he'll at least split time with Resnick. Matt Maimone, Jr. - Maimone might be one of Army's best inside linebackers, but he's not strong enough to handle the job in a full-time role. He has instincts and playmaking ability and will be a top reserve. David Clamon, Soph. One of the team's better hitters, Clamon will push for time on the inside. He hits like a linebacker, but covers the pass like a defensive tackle.

Secondary - Cornerback Delente Brewer, Jr. - A better tackler than he is a cover corner, Brewer is a physical player finishing last year with 59 tackles. He picked off two passes and only broke up one other. He's good and one of the best defensive players on the team; now he has to be even better. Free safety Lucius Weaver, Jr. - A big safety at 6-3 and 229 pounds, Weaver is a monster hitter and should progress into an intimidator in the Army secondary. If he can learn to not to try and go for the kill shot on every play, he'll be even better. He was third on the team with 71 tackles last year. Cornerback Jonathan Lewis, Jr. - Considered one of Army's rising stars, Lewis had a good, but not great, 2002 making 45 tackles and breaking up three passes. He'll be the team's top cover corner with a nice mix of size and speed. Top Backups Cornerback Ray Stith, Soph. - Even though he's not as big as Brewer or Lewis, Stith is expected to make a big impact in the secondary with great speed and good overall skills. Cornerback Mario Price, Soph. - One of the better cover corner prospects on the team, he'll see plenty of action behind Brewer and Lewis. Free safety Dhyran Tarver, Soph. - The former corner will provide the depth behind Weaver at free safety. He'll add more speed to the position. Special Teams - Placekicker Joe Riley, Soph. - In limited work, Riley had a good season hitting four of five field goals. He didn't get much of a chance to hit any bombs, but he has the leg to do it. Punter Alex Bradford, Jr. - Bradford is a left-footed kicker with a good leg and decent all-around athleticism. He'll replace Chris Castelli who was completely average last year.

CINCINNATI

HEAD COACH: RICK MINTER

UC should still be explosive even after losing most of its ammo. The Bearcats lose the top four pass catchers, an all-star back DeMarco McCleskey and several top players on the line. It'll be a numbers game with five running backs and six receivers looking to pick up the slack. The line isn't deep, but it should be strong inside with two good guards and a rock at center. Quarterbacks - Gino Guidugli, Jr. - Guidugli is the team's signature star and needs to play like it. The receiving corps isn't nearly as strong as it was last season, so he'll have to come up with his best season yet. With 6,116 passing yards and 38 career touchdown passes, he's as productive as any returning quarterback in college football. The problem? He went through a sophomore slump when it came to giving the ball away throwing 21 interceptions. On the plus side, he became more of a scrambler rushing for positive yards and scoring three touchdowns. He has a nice arm and a decent ability to throw on the run. Top Backups - Billy Faulkner, RFr. - Faulkner is a pure passer. He's 6-5 and likes to stay in the pocket. Rod Stevens, RFr. - He isn't quite the passer Faulkner is, but he's better at throwing the ball on the run.

Running Backs - Richard Hall, Jr. - Hall was one of the top recruits in the country ... for Ohio State. With good speed and excellent quickness, the transfer appears ready to be one of the stars of Conference USA after rushing for 264 yards and three touchdowns in his first year as a Bearcat. He can catch the ball, but his main use will be as the team's top ball-carrier. - Booker Vann, Sr. - Vann isn't a true fullback. He's more of an ultra back doing a little of everything well. The 218-pound senior is a good runner and receiver along with being the team's best blocking back. Top Backups Tedric Harwell, Sr. - Hall is quick, Harwell is fast. With sub-4.5 speed and decent size, he'll see more than his share of carries along with Hall. David Harris, Sr. - He's been a valuable member of the special teams with various leg injuries limiting him in the running game. He is big with great moves and wonderful speed when healthy. Carl Jones, Soph. - The former receiver and cornerback adds a wonderful speed burst to the backfield.

Receivers - Derick Ross, Soph. - Ross is the best pure receiver on the team and a potential star on the outside. He's not a burner, but he should end up being a big play deep threat as the season goes on. George Murray, Jr. - The former quarterback is a 6-1 pure athlete with 4.5 speed. Even with his deep jets, he was only used as a possession receiver last season only averaging 10.7 yards per catch. Now that he knows how to player receiver, he should be stronger in a full-time starting role. Kevin Hazel, Jr. - Hazel is a great route runner and should make the most of his shot as a starter. He has a great combination of size and speed. Tight end A.J. Lucius, Jr. - The 242-pound Lucius returns to his starting spot at tight end. He's a great blocker and an average receiver catching three passes for 34 yards. As strong as he is, he's used more to help the running game go. Top Backups - Cedrick Dawley, Jr. - Look for Dawley to push for a starting spot right away. The 6-1, 210-pound JUCO transfer could be the team's most dangerous receiver once he gets the overall hang of the offense. Jeff Henderson, Jr. - After sitting out all of last year, Henderson is ready to make an impact. He has a rapport with the Bearcat quarterbacks and should be a reliable player behind Murray on the inside. Walter Dudley, Soph. - He made the team as a walk-on and should become a good reserve on the outside. He has good speed to get deep. Tight end Dennis Hart, Sr. - Lucius is the starting tight end, but Hart is the better receiving option. He caught 13 passes for 138 yards and a touchdown showing good open field moves for a 220-pound player.

Offensive Line - Tackle Steve Eastlake, Jr. - A backup last year, the 287-pound Eastlake will get the start at left tackle. He has always been a quick lineman, and now he has worked to bulk up to get stronger and more suited for the full-time role. Guard Kyle Takavitz, Jr. - Takavitz is one of the stars of the line moving over to left guard after playing tackle last season. He's a good run blocker and great in pass protection. As good as he is, he has to step his overall game with his new job on the inside. Center Josh Shneyderov, Sr. - It's never a bad thing when your center is the true anchor of the line. Shneyderov is one of the team's most dependable players playing almost every offensive down. He's a big player with great technique. Guard Travis McGee, Sr. - As the team's biggest offensive lineman, he's also the best run blocker with a year of experience after coming over from the JUCO ranks. He hasn't had any problems with his knee after tearing it up at San Francisco City College. Tackle Anthony Colton, Sr. - Colton played at both tackle and guard last season. He struggled a bit, but he should be a valuable starter on the right side. Top Backups OT Clint Stickdorn, Jr. - The 299-pound junior will see plenty of action on the left side if he doesn't take over the starting job. The former tight end bulked up to be in the mix for the starting role last year before getting hurt. OT Jeremy Schlicher, Jr. - Schlicher has been a reserve over the last two years. He's strong, but he doesn't have the feet that some of the other linemen do. He'll back up Colton on the right side. OG Adam Shorter, Jr. - Shorter is taller, bigger and much stronger coming into the season. He'll be a key reserve behind McGee on the right side. C Matt Mercer, Jr. - The former defensive tackle is a full-time offensive lineman now. He can play either guard or center.

The defense isn't all that big, but it's fast, productive and should be very good again. Even without a signature star like Antwan Peek, the Bearcats should be solid everywhere with good starters and decent depth. The tackles are the only big concern. Defensive Line - Defensive end Trent Cole, Jr. - The 227-pound Cole was an undersized tackle last year. Now he'll move to his more natural spot on the outside to use his strength and quickness. He's the most dependable player on the line not taking a down off with his non-stop motor. He made 87 tackles, five sacks and 12 tackles for loss from the inside, so expect those pass rushing numbers to skyrocket on the end. - Defensive tackle Ka'Son Love, Sr. - Love was never healthy last year and couldn't do more than make 22 tackles as a reserve. He isn't huge, but he has a quick first step on the inside. Defensive tackle Mike Wright, Jr. - After missing all of last year with a knee injury, he's back and bigger bulking up to 267 pounds to handle the pounding on the inside. He's probably the strongest player on the team. - Defensive end Andre Frazier, Jr. - Frazier takes over for star end Antwan Peek on the end. He was a top reserve making 62 tackles, six tackles and 12 tackles for loss. Even though he's only 213 pounds, he should be awesome coming off the edge with his blazing speed. Top Backups - DE Adam Roberts, Soph. - Roberts is good enough to play either end or tackle. He made 16 tackles as a reserve with five tackles for loss. He'll back up Cole. DT Lonnie Simmons, Jr. - At 274 pounds, he's UC's biggest lineman. The former Michigan State transfer is expected to make a huge impact on the inside.

Linebackers - Jason Russell, Sr. - The 207-pound senior is experienced enough to take over the full-time role on the outside. He made 58 tackles including eight tackles for loss showing the