Big East Football
Alright this is weird for me, being a UC fan, football has always been an afterthought as many of you know. Basketball has always been the only event on campus. Last spring and summer was the first time I had ever been excited about UC football, and this spring its been multiplied by 10. I cannot wait for the football season to roll around. And the more I hear Brian Kelly talk, the more I believe he is in it for the long haul. Now, I know, if someone like a Notre Dame or a Miami (Fla) comes along I'd pretty much consider him gone, but I think he sees how much success he could have in Cincy if he wins consistently for a few more years. His enthusiasm will begin to win local players over. If he can reach the kids when they are young and make them Bearcat fans, the sky is the limit for the Cats.
Also, I'd just like to say I love the Big East. While we obviously aren't the best conference, we are easily one of the most competitive leagues. Everyone, except for Syracuse, has a chance at the conference title this year. Also love the fact that we are witnessing programs create themselves: Cincy, Louisville, South Florida, Rutgers, and UConn. I know its early and people start these threads all the time, but I'm going to give my early predictions.
1.) West Virginia - White and Devine will be better than White and Slaton. Holes on defense. Number 1 till someone knocks them off.
2.) Cincinnati - Still trying to figure out why everyone thinks our defense won't be as good, I know we lose Haruki, but we return Mickens, DeAngelo Smith, Byrd, Corey Smith, among others. Mauk hurts obviously, but I have a feeling Kelly will find an answer.
3.) South Fla - Grothe is a playmaker, however, I think he is slightly overrated, never been impressed when hes played UC. Selvie is back, but lose a lot on defense. Lot of athletes.
4.) Pittsburgh - McCloy (spelling?) is a beast. Best overall player in the league besides Pat White in my opinion. Solid defense.
5.) Rutgers - Passing game comes back, lose Rice. Teel still hasn't proved to be a good decision maker, costs them in close games.
6.) UConn - I feel they are improving, over achieved big time last year with the help of the officials (Temple, Louisville.) Laid two huge eggs in their two biggest games (@Cincy, @WVa.) Definitely on the rise, just not there yet.
7.) Louisville - Huge disappointment last year. Lose Brohm, both receivers, defense was a joke. Talented, but a lot to prove, I could easily see them finishing 2nd.
8.) Syracuse - Please fire Greg Robinson already.
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