AccuScore Conference Previews – Independents

Jonathan Lee AccuScore Analyst
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There are just three independents remaining in the Bowl Subdivision, four if you include provisional member Western Kentucky. Each team is in a very different position this year, although one thing each school has in common is that each will be going through some serious changes in 2008.

Western Kentucky: The Hilltoppers are in the final year of transitioning into a full-fledged member of D-IA. Their membership will bring the total of programs in the highest division to an even 120. They went 7-5 last year, but got 6 wins against D-IAA opponents. The team travels on the road this year to Indiana, Alabama, Kentucky, and Virginia Tech so it suffer some severe groin pains.

Army: The Knights will continue to build in year two under coach Stan Brock. The team will have a tough time stopping people through the air as almost the entire back seven needs to be replaced (only MLB Frank Scappaticci returns). Thankfully the defensive line has some talent. The offense is also rumored to be switching back to the wishbone after eight years running a pro-style attack.

Navy: Paul Johnson was probably the greatest coach in program history, but he has moved on to Georgia Tech. Ken Niumatalolo was promoted to the head job and the 2007 Poinsettia Bowl was his first game at any level as a head coach. He will have huge shoes to fill as Johnson went 43-19 since 2003, an incredible record at a service academy. Senior quarterback Kaipo-Noa Kaheaku-Enhada does return to lead the option attack, but the Midshipmen must shore up a weak defense challenge for another bowl apperance in 2008.

Notre Dame: The Irish have to be much improved this year because of a much easier schedule if nothing else. In the place of Georgia Tech, Penn State, UCLA, Air Force, and Duke are San Diego State, UNC, Washington, Pittsburgh, and Syracuse. It would be difficult to repeat last season’s 3-9 disaster playing again a much softer schedule and much of the skill players having another year of experience. Jimmy Clausen is now the undisputed quarterback and he has to be hoping his offensive line improves and a playmaker or two emerges from several highly rated recruits. Freshman receiver Michael Floyd is expected to make an impact right away. There are still many questions about this team all over the field and on the sidelines, but Notre Dame should rebound and reach a bowl game this season.

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