AccuScore Conference Previews – Big East

Jonathan Lee AccuScore Analyst
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West Virginia has been the biggest name in the Big East in recent years. The team hasn’t been as dominant as one would think however, and it might be beginning to show some chinks in the armor. The team missed out on a huge opportunity last season failing to beat Pitt to reach the BCS title game. Then came an acrimonious split with head coach Rich Rodriguez who left for Michigan. The Mountaineers didn’t even win the conference outright last season as Connecticut came out of nowhere to grab a share of the title. Now programs like South Florida, Cincinnati, and Pitt are starting to assert themselves and will be big factors in the Big East for years to come.

Favorite: West Virginia
There is turmoil in Morgantown, but lucky for new coach Bill Stewart he still has Pat White at quarterback. The senior will be relied on more than ever this year, and an injury could cripple the offense. White will likely be called upon to throw more this season in an effort to keep him upright and healthy. He nonetheless is still the premier run-pass threat in the nation. Sophomore Noel Devine will be taking on a much bigger role with Steve Slaton gone to the NFL, and it remains to be seen if he can be an every-down back. The defense held opponents to just 18.1 points per game last year, but seven starters are now gone. What the Mountaineers lack in experience they will try to make up for with speed and an aggressive attacking style.

Contenders: South Florida, Pitt
For all the hype and accolades South Florida received last year, it still lost three consecutive conference games to slow all momentum from a 6-0 start. The Bulls will need to avoid a similar letdown this season if they want to reach the upper-echelons of college football. They return stars on both sides of the ball including quarterback Matt Grothe and defensive end George Selvie. Consistency will be key for them as they will now have to play with the burden of expectations. Pitt looks finally ready to turn the corner under coach Dave Wannstedt. The monumental upset over West Virginia to end last season is a main reason why many feel this team is ready to breakout. Running back LaSean McCoy proved to be a dynamic playmaker his freshman year. He will be joined in the backfield by either one of two players at quarterback. Bill Stull missed most of last season with a thumb injury, and he will battle sophomore Pat Bostick for the job. Star wideout Derek Kinder also returns from injury.

Team on the Rise: Cincinnati
The Bearcats might be flying under the radar nationally, but not so in the Big East. Brian Kelly has made this team a player in conference. Cincy will be looking to build off a terrific 10-win season in 2007. The Bearcats were dealt a blow when quarterback Ben Mauck’s appeal for another year of eligibility was denied by the NCAA. Either Notre Dame transfer Demetrius Jones or former starter Dustin Grutza will have a strong receiving corps to throw to in a spread scheme. The defense thrives on creating turnovers and is led by senior cornerback Mike Mickens. A best test will come early in the season as Cincy travels to Oklahoma on September 6.

Bottom Feeders: Louisville, Syracuse
Last season was a complete disaster for Louisville in year one under Steve Kragthorpe. The roster has undergone severe attrition, leaving fans already longing for the days of Bobby Petrino. The defense in particular needs a lot of help, but there is a chance of a turnaround for this program. Syracuse on the other hand is facing year 28 of a 5-year rebuilding plan, and will once again compete for the title of worst BCS conference team.

Analyst Power Ranking:
1. West Virginia
2. South Florida
3. Pitt
4. Cincinnati
5. Rutgers
6. Louisville
7. Connecticut
8. Syracuse

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