Jonathan Lee    AccuScore Analyst
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The Sun Belt is home to some of the worst teams in the country, but that label doesn’t apply to every conference member.  Florida Atlantic is one the fastest rising programs in the nation, and could end up with a 10 win season.  Troy came within 10 points of beating Georgia last November.  The league also had wins over Minnesota, Oklahoma State, and Alabama to its credit in 2007.

Contenders:  Florida Atlantic, Troy
Guess who the only team from Florida to win a bowl game last season was?  Congratulations if you guessed Florida Atlantic (although I don't believe you) which will be in only its fourth season as a full-time member of the FBS.  The Owls are definitely on the way up under coach Howard Schnellenberger, and are clearly the class of the conference.  They will have a shot to make some noise against BCS foes this year playing Minnesota, Michigan State, and Texas.  Quarterback Rusty Smith was the conference offensive player of the year, and he is surrounding by a deep group of talented and experienced skill players.  The defense is also solid led by linebacker Frantz Joseph.  Troy tied Florida Atlantic for first place last year, but a new quarterback must be found to replace the dynamic Omar Haugabook.  Both lines are talented, and there is good team speed but finding a replacement to run the spread offense is the key issue with the Trojans.

Bottom Feeders:  Florida International, North Texas, Louisiana-Monroe
FIU avoided a winless season last year by winning its final game.  You know you’re bad when two wins constitute a cause for celebration.  North Texas is coming off a two-win season, but is in year two under Todd Dodge and his pass happy offense.  The Mean Green will score points, but so will opponents.  They are likely still a year away.  Louisiana-Monroe somehow upset Alabama last year, but lost superstar running back Calvin Dawson and four-fifths of the offensive line, and has three SEC teams on the schedule.

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