Battle for Atlantis: Previewing Wednesday's Action in the Bahamas

Wednesday in the Bahamas is loaded with college basketball at Atlantis as Wisconsin takes on Alabama-Birmingham, Florida battles with Georgetown, UCLA and Oklahoma square off, and Butler will go for the upset against North Carolina.

Game 1: Butler vs. North Carolina (ESPN 2) 12:00 PM

This game should be interesting as the high-powered Tar Heels will depend on the talent and athleticism of point guard Marcus Paige.  The Brandon Miller-led Bulldogs will try to contain the superstar while hoping to get point production from their own budding stars of Kellen Dunham and Roosevelt Jones. Alexander Barlow will be essential defensively if Butler wants to get the W as he will be tested with defending Paige. I think that the Tar Heels win this one, but are victorious because of a big games from their front court beast Brice Johnson. Expect Butler to expend a lot of their defensive energy attempting to contain Paige, and Roy Williams will take advantage of this, revolving the offense instead around Brice Johnson.

PF Brice Johnson 

 

Game 2: UCLA vs. Oklahoma (ESPN 2) 2:30 PM

This game should also be interesting pinning two well-respected coaches in Steve Alford of UCLA and Lon Kruger of Oklahoma against each other.  For Oklahoma, they cannot rely their offense completely on Buddy Hield, like they usually do, as Alford will take advantage of this and pin down Hield to force other Sooners to try and score. Because of this, expect Kruger to try and get Jordan Woodard and Ryan Spangler some good looks early to open up Hield late in the game. As for UCLA, Alford fields a long and lean lineup led by senior guard Norman Powell and freshman athletic freak Kevon Looney.  They will get a lot of open looks in the paint but their X-factor might be the play of Thomas Welsh and Kevon Looney inside as they can take advantage of less height in the front court of the Sooners.  I like Lon Kruger and the Oklahoma Sooners to shoot the three ball a little better with the likes of Hield, Spangler, and Woodard, as they steal a big one from the Bruins.

PG Jordan Woodard 

 

Game 3: Wisconsin vs. Alabama-Birmingham (Access  TV) 7:00 PM

This one won't be pretty. Wisconsin's front court will absolutely overpower the undersized and small UAB big men. Frank Kaminsky will stretch their defense with his deadly three-point shot, and Nigel Hayes and Sam Dekker will punish them inside. Traevon Jackson and Josh Gasser will play mistake-free ball while hitting a couple of key three pointers. Bo Ryan and the feisty Badgers should coast to a win.

C Frank Kaminsky

 

Game 4: Florida vs. Georgetown (Access TV) 9:30 PM

This game may actually be one to watch. The Gators are coming off an embarrassing upset loss at the hands of Miami while Georgetown has experienced a successful start to their 2014-2015 campaign. For Florida, they will be without Eli Carter and Dorian Finney-Smith.  Look for Billy Donovan to run his offense around Chris Walker in the paint and Michael Frazier II around the perimeter. There is no reason the Gators should lose this one as long as Walker and battery-mate Jon Horford can control the inside.  As for the Hoyas, they are looking good with that 3-0 record as we have seen solid performances from Josh Smith, who will be essential guarding Horford and Walker inside for Georgetown. D'Vauntes Smith-Rivera will run John Thompson III's offense but I don't think it will be enough to oust Donovan's Gators for a first round upset. Maybe next time, Georgetown.

C Chris Walker

 

 

 

NFL Week 9 Picks

Buccaneers at Browns: This matchup may be more interesting than many think, but I like the Browns at home, where they have been dominant lately. Brian Hoyer is still trying to convince the rest of the country that he deserves to be the top dog in Cleveland and securing a victory against a Tampa Bay team looking to get a top pick in the upcoming draft would further his case against the ultra-athletic and outgoing Johnny Manziel.  Browns win 27-13

Cardinals at Cowboys: I think the Cardinals have gotten quite lucky avoiding Tony Romo, who is hurt and the Cowboys lose a valuable piece of their offense. Todd Bowles will rip a part Brandon Weeden. Look for Bowles and that strong Arizona defense to completely sell out against the run and focus their entire defensive game plan on DeMarco Murray. All Carson Palmer has to do is outscore Weeden, something I think he can do with ease. Cardinals win 20-16

Eagles at Texans: I am going with an upset here, because I think Arian Foster is going to have another unbelievable game and will open up a passing attack in Houston. J.J. Watt will reinvigorate the Texans defense to stop Nick Foles. Texans win 31-27

Jets at Chiefs: The Chiefs are going to win this game at home against a horrible Jets team. The only thing going for the Jets are Rex Ryan and Geno Smith wanting to keep their jobs. I think Jamaal Charles and the offense will have a field day, and Smith will be hassled and throw more turnovers. Chiefs win 24-13

Jaguars at Bengals: This will almost be like a bye week for the Bengals, as they will try to fix their problems against the inexperienced Jacksonville team with a very untalented defense. Bengals win 37-10

Chargers at Dolphins: I like the Dolphins to upset at home against a Chargers team who is still licking their wounds after a huge loss to their divisional rival Denver Broncos. Look for a big game from Ryan Tannehill and a few interceptions from Phillip Rivers. Dolphins win 24-20

Redskins at Vikings: This is a battle between divisional bottom-feeders and I think this will be a rushing war between Alfred Morris and Jerrick McKinnon. The difference in this game is the addition of Robert Griffin III to the Redskins offense who will light up the Vikings depleted secondary. Redskins win 27-17

Rams at 49ers: The Rams were able to sneak a victory at home against the Seahawks, but I am not sure they will be able to take one away on the road against San Francisco. Look for the 49ers to get their running game going to open up Collin Kaepernick and the passing attack late in the game to secure a W. 49ers win 21-13

Broncos at Patriots: These passing attacks will go toe to toe in this game, the only difference is that the Broncos have more support from the defense. Tom Brady will pour his heart out and give it his all but Peyton Manning will rip through the Patriots horrible secondary. Broncos win 38-35

Raiders at Seahawks: This shouldn't be hard for Seattle. The talent gap between these two teams is gigantic and the Seahawks will take advantage of this old and tired defense, and overpower the Raiders under-average offense. Seahawks win 24-9

Ravens at Steelers: The Steelers are on a roll, with Ben Roethlisberger giving one of the most complete performance the NFL has ever seen. That said the Ravens are being overlooked by the rest of the league and will be a threat to the Steelers. The Ravens will be focused on the Steelers loss to Cleveland to see how they can exploit their weaknesses. I like the Ravens with an upset on the road. Ravens win 34-31

Colts at Giants: The Colts will win this ballgame solely because of the matchup of Andrew Luck against the Giants defense. He will also receive support from Ahmad Bradshaw. The key for the Giants is their offense. I don't think they will do enough to get the primetime upset at home. Colts win 35-24

Reviewing Preseason College Basketball AP Top 25

The college basketball season is rapidly approaching and the Associated Press just released its preseason top 25 poll. I will go spot by spot and preview each team and if they are in the right spot.

1. Kentucky Wildcats: John Calipari brings back yet another stacked recruiting class led by five stars  center Karl Towns and point guard Tyler Ulis. This comes with the return of the Harrison brothers, Willie Cauley-Stein, Dakari Johnson and Alex Poythress. Kentucky belongs in the conversation for best team in America, but with all this youth, you have to wonder how long it will take for the growing pains to finally wear off. But then again, John Calipari has been successful many times with very young lineups, including last season.
PG: Andrew Harrison
SG: Aaron Harrison
SF: Alex Poythress
PF: Karl Towns
C: Willie Cauley-Stein
Bench: Anthony Lee, Tyler Ulis, Trey Lyles, Devin Booker, Dominique Hawkins

2. Arizona Wildcats: The Wildcats of the southwest join their fellow cats at the top of the poll in large part due to the amount of impact players they return. Even with the losses of stars Nick Johnson and Aaron Gordon, they return T.J. McConnell, Kaleb Tarczewski, Brandon Ashley, and Rondae Hollis-Jefferson. It also helps when you bring in arguably one of the best freshman in Stanley Johnson. Any Sean Miller-led team should be in the discussion for top team in America, and it wouldn't be a surprise to see the Wildcats of Arizona in the Final Four, which would make it Sean Miller's first.
PG: T.J. McConnell
SG: Stanley Johnson
SF: Rondae Hollis-Jefferson
PF: Brandon Ashley
C: Kaleb Tarczewski
Bench: Gabe York, Elliot Pitts

3. Wisconsin Badgers: The surprise Final Four-bound team from a year ago brings back every impact player except sharpshooting specialist and tough player Ben Brust, who graduated. They return two of the top players in the country in center Frank Kaminsky and forward Sam Dekker. They also return clutch shooter and team leader Traevon Jackson, son of Ohio State legend Jim Jackson. The Badgers will rely on Josh Gasser, the defensive stalwart and efficient shooter to pick up the offensive slack that Brust leaves behind him. There is a question regarding who takes the final starting spot, which will likely be a toss up between bruising forward Nigel Hayes and speedy sharpshooting guard Bronson Koenig. The Badgers boast one of the top starting fives in the nation and have one of, if not the most consistent coach in Bo Ryan. CBS Sports College Basketball Analyst and ESPN contributor Doug Gottlieb has the Badgers as his top team in the nation.
PG: Traevon Jackson
SG: Josh Gasser
SF: Sam Dekker
PF: Nigel Hayes
C: Frank Kaminsky
Bench: Bronson Koenig, Duje Dukan, Vitto Brown, Jordan Hill

4. Duke Blue Devils: Coach K brings in two of the top recruits in the nation which includes the number one overall recruit: center Jahlil Okafor. Joining him as top-rated freshmen are point guard Tyus Jones, shooting guard Grayson Allen, and forward Justice Winslow. Duke does lose superstars Jabari Parker and Rodney Hood. Duke will once again compete for bot the ACC title and national title as long as Coach K is still at the helm.
PG: Tyus Jones
SG: Quinn Cook
SF: Justice Winslow
PF: Amile Jefferson
C: Jahlil Okafor
Bench: Rasheed Sulaimon, Grayson Allen

5. Kansas Jayhawks: Bill Self did a nice job in recruitment as he picked up a huge commitment from big man Cliff Alexander, who will slide in nicely for the loss of star Joel Embiid. Another five star freshman coming to KU is Kelly Oubre and four star point guard Devonte Graham. Self will have a hard time putting a starting five together but there is no doubt that there is a lot of talent in Lawrence. Kansas is in line to win yet another Big 12 title and compete for the national championship.
PG: Devonte Graham
SG: Wayne Selden Jr.
SF: Kelly Oubre
PF: Perry Ellis
C: Cliff Alexander
Bench: Frank Mason, Jamari Traylor

6. North Carolina Tar Heels: Roy Williams is one of the best coaches in college basketball and actually all six coaches that have their teams in the top six are probably the best coaches in college basketball as long as you save room Jim Boeheim, Tom Izzo, and Billy Donovan. (you will hear him next) I think that North Carolina brings back the best player in college basketball in point guard Marcus Paige. He also hit it big with the recruitment of shooting guard Justin Jackson, who will be a key contributor if Roy William's Tar Heels want to reach the Final Four.
PG: Marcus Paige
SG: Justin Jackson
SF: J.P. Tokoto
PF: Brice Johnson
C: Kennedy Meeks
Bench: Joel Berry,

NFL Draft Big Board at Week After Week 7 of College Football

Positional Rankings:

QB: 
1. Marcus Mariota, Oregon
2. Bryce Petty, Baylor
3. Jameis Winston, Florida State
4. Brett Hundley, UCLA
5. Dak Prescott, Mississippi State
6. Connor Cook, Michigan State
7.  Sean Mannion, Oregon State
8. Everett Golson, Notre Dame
9. Cody Kessler, USC
10. Bo Wallace, Ole Miss

RB: 
1. Melvin Gordon, Wisconsin
2. Todd Gurley, Georgia
3. Ameer Abdullah, Nebraska
4. Tevin Coleman, Indiana
5. Mike Davis, South Carolina
6. Duke Johnson, Miami
7. T.J. Yeldon, Alabama
8. David Cobb, Minnesota
9. Jeremy Langford, Michigan State
 10. Corey Grant, Auburn

WR:
1. Amari Cooper, Alabama
2. Nelson Agholor, USC
3. Devin Funchess, Michigan
4. Sammie Coates, Auburn
5. DeVante Parker, Louisville
6. Ty Montgomery, Stanford
7. Kevin White, West Virginia
8. Rashad Greene, Florida State
9. Stefon Diggs, Maryland
10. Kasen Williams, Washington

TE: 
1. Nick O'Leary, Florida State
2. Jeff Heuerman, Ohio State
3. Gerald Christian, Louisville
4. Ben Koyack, Notre Dame
5.  E.J. Bibbs, Iowa State

OT:
1. Brandon Scherff, Iowa
2. Cedric Ogbuehi, Texas A&M
3. Andrus Peat, Stanford
4. Germain Ifedi, Texas A&M
5. Ty Sambrailo, Colorado State
6. La'el Collins, LSU
7. Spencer Drango, Baylor
8. Cameron Erving, Florida State
9. Sean Hickey, Syracuse
10. Ereck Flowers, Miami

G:
1. A.J. Cann, South Carolina
2.  Tre Jackson, Florida State
3. Laken Tomlinson, Duke
4.  Arie Kouandjio, Alabama
5. Aundrey Walker, USC

C:
1. Hronnis Grasu, Oregon
2. Reese Dismukes, Auburn
3. Dominic Espinosa, Texas
4. Brandon Vitable, Northwestern
5. B.J. Finney, Kansas State

DE:
1. Leonard Williams, USC
2. Randy Gregory, Nebraska
3. Shane Ray, Missouri
4. Mario Edwards, Florida State
5. Shawn Oakman, Baylor
6. Dante Fowler, Florida
7. Carl Davis, Iowa
8. Shilique Calhoun, Michigan State
9. Trey Flowers, Arkansas
10. Christian Covington, Rice

DT: 
1. Michael Bennett, Ohio State
2. Ellis McCarthy, UCLA
3. Danny Shelton, Washington
4. Eddie Goldman, Florida State
5. Grady Jeerers, Clemson
6. Jordan Phillips, Oklahoma
7. Malcom Brown, Texas
8. Tyeler Davidson, Fresno State
9. Gabe Wright, Auburn
10. Henry Anderson, Stanford

OLB:
1. Vic Beasley, Clemson
2. Shaq Thompson, Washington
3. Eric Striker, Oklahoma
4. Leonard Floyd, Georgia
5. Hau'oli Kikaha, Washington
6. Geneo Grissom, Oklahoma
7. Zach Hodges, Harvard
8. Noah Spence, Ohio State
9. Markus Golden, Missouri
10. Cedric Reed, Texas


ILB:
1. Benardric McKinney, Mississippi State
2. Denzel Perryman, Miami
3. Kris Frost, Auburn
4. Eric Kendricks, UCLA
5. A.J. Johnson, Tennessee
6. Ramik Wilson, Georgia
7. Trey DePriest, Alabama
8. Ben Heeney, Kansas
9. Bryce Hager, Baylor
10. Stephone Anthony, Clemson

CB: 
1. Marcus Peters, Washington
2. Ifo Ekpre-Olomu
3. Jalen Mills, LSU
4. Trae Waynes, Michigan State
5. P.J. Williams, Florida State
6. Doran Grant, Ohio State
7. Ronald Darby, Florida State
8. Quandre Diggs, Texas
9. Kevin Johnson, Wake Forest
10. Steven Nelson, Oregon State

S:
1. Landon Collins, Alabama
2. Kurtis Drummond, Michigan State
3. Jordan Richards, Stanford
4. Tyler Hunter, Florida State
5. Derron Smith, Fresno State
6. Cody Prewitt, Ole Miss
7. Anthony Harris, Virginia
8. Justin Cox, Mississippi State
9. Jermaine Whitehead, Auburn
10. Kyshoen Jarrett, Virginia Tech

Top 32: 
1. Marcus Mariota, Oregon
2. Leonard Williams, USC
3. Brandon Scherff, Iowa
4. Cedric Ogbuehi, Texas A&M
5. Vic Beasley, Clemson
6. Amari Cooper, Alabama
7. Bryce Petty, Baylor
8. Randy Gregory, Nebraska
9. Landon Collins, Alabama
10. Jameis Winston, Florida State
11. Ifo Ekpre-Olomu, Oregon
12. Shaq Thompson, Washington
13. Shane Ray, Missouri
14. Andrus Peat, Stanford
15. Melvin Gordon, Wisconsin
16. Michael Bennett, Ohio State
17. Benardric McKinney, Mississippi State
18. Jalen Mills, LSU
19. Mario Edwards, Florida State
20. Ellis McCarthy, UCLA
21. Nelson Agholor, USC
22. Brett Hundley, UCLA
23. Todd Gurley, Georgia
24. A.J. Cann, South Carolina
25. Danny Shelton, Washington
26. Eric Striker, Oklahoma
27. Devin Funchess, Michigan
28. Denzel Perryman, Miami
29. Kurtis Drummond, Michigan State
30. Sammie Coates, Auburn
31. German Ifedi, Texas A&M
32. Hronnis Grasu, Oregon

NFL Week 5 Predictions

Last week I finished 7-5 

Bills at Lions: Matthew Stafford and the Detroit Lions are on fire and I feel like they can shut down struggling E.J. Manuel and the Bills offense. Lions win 23-13

Falcons at Giants: This will likely be an offensive shootout as both teams defenses are struggling. I like Eli Manning to continue his winning always and pick up a tough victory at home. Giants win 27-20

Ravens at Colts: Andrew Luck is putting up an MVP-caliber season and will out duel the Ravens offense that lacks playmakers besides for Steve Smith. As long as they shut down Smith, the Colts will cruise to a victory. Colts win 31-21

Texans at Cowboys: After a huge defensive output against the do-it-all Drew Brees and as long as the offense does their job and double teams J.J. Watt Dallas will win. Cowboys win 34-27

Rams at Eagles: This could be the game where the Philadelphia defense truly shows their colors. If they can't stop Austin Davis and the pedestrian Rams offense then they have a serious problem on that side of the ball. Eagles win 38-10

Browns at Titans: The Browns have some serious momentum behind them and have finally found the right coach. With Brandon Tate back, their offense will be clicking on all cylinders. Browns win 24-23

Buccaneers at Saints: The Saints rarely lose at home, and against the Bucanneers they will continue that trend. Saints win 34-20

Steelers at Jaguars: The Jaguars are definitely on the right path but their team is just not ready to compete at this point in Bortles development. Steelers win 27-17

Bears at Panthers: This is an interesting matchup as both teams are coming off embarrassing losses. I like the Bears to get back on track on the road. Bears win 21-17

Cardinals at Broncos: The Broncos high powered offense will face the well-coached Cardinals defenses in this battle and I like the Peyton Manning to win this one an pick up a huge victory at home. Broncos win 21-20

Jets at Chargers: With the unbelievable play of Philip Rivers and the Chargers offense, the Jets won't stand a chance, even if Geno Smith has a flawless game. Chargers win 28-14

Chiefs at 49ers: The 49ers will win this one as they pick up their second ever victory at Levi Stadium with some shutdown defense. 49ers win 20-17

Bengals at Patriots: Bengals will take advantage of the poor play the whole Patriots team and win with a complete team victory. Bengals win 30-24

Seahawks at Redskins: The Seahawks won't even have to win this game with their defense as Russell Wilson will perform greatly as he always does in prime time. Seahawks win 24-6

Packers-Vikings Post Game

Grading the Packers:

Quarterback: Aaron Rodgers was once again on point ringing up 156 yards and three touchdowns through three quarters after sitting on the bench with a more than comfortable 42-0 lead. He finished the day with a 138.7 QB Rating. Matt Flynn brings down this grade after coming in and throwing an interception. Overall, the Packers quarterbacks look as good as always. Grade: B+

Running Backs: Eddic Lacy finally broke out of his slump as he totaled 105 yards on thirteen carries and scored twice. What was so amazing about Lacy was his thumping runs, as his second touchdown as he was barreling into the far right side of the end zone, took off the helmet of a pursuing Viking defender. James Starks added 46 yards on 12 carries as the Packers rushing attack put up 157 yards after a very quiet first four weeks of the season. Grade: A-

Wide Receivers: The Packers receivers didn't do a lot as Rodgers was held under 175 yards in his shortened game. The play that stuck out to me was the 66 yard touchdown catch and run by Jordy Nelson from a beautiful throw by Aaron Rodgers. Davante Adams caught his first career touchdown catch on a slant as he glided into the end zone. Randall Cobb opened the scoring for the Packers and led the team, along with Eddie Lacy, with three catches. Grade: A

Tight Ends: Andrew Quarless was the only tight end with a catch, as he finished with two catches for 19 yards. The tight ends, however, did open up some very key running lanes to finally get Eddie Lacy and Co. running again. Grade: B

Offensive Line: The line only gave up two sacks and consistently gave Rodgers enough time to scan the field and move around freely in the pocket. The reason for the high grade, however, is for the vast improvement in the run game, especially for thumper Eddie Lacy. All five linemen had a great game and extra probe to the dynamic guard duo of T.J. Lang and Josh Sitton for opening up the inside run game. Grade: A-

Defensive Line: Datone Jones left the game early but this was a superb showing by the defensive line. Letroy Guion and Mike Daniels each had 1.5 sacks and consistently showed up for a top tier rushing attack, one that was supposed to tear through the Packers defense. Luther Robinson got his hand in the face of Ponder and forced him to throw a pick to Julius Peppers that resulted in a pick-6. Grade: A

Linebackers: Julius Peppers, as you read above, had a pick-six that shifted a ton of momentum the Packers way. He also recorded a half of a sack. The very next time the ball was in Ponder's hands he threw to another Green Bay linebacker, this time Jamari Lattimore, which resulted in a passing touchdown. A.J. Hawk recorded a half of a sack and repeatedly got into the backfield. Nick Perry may have had the most impressive performance, as he took Christian Ponder down twice for two sacks. Grade: A+

Secondary: The defensive backs weren't asked to do all that much and played very well for the most part, as Sam Shields and Co. shut down Greg Jennings and Cordarelle Patterson. They also limited Christian Ponder to 200 yards passing and didn't allow a passing touchdown. Grade: B+

Special Teams: The special teams also had a decent game as Mason Crosby made all six of his extra points and Tim Masthay repeatedly pinned the Vikings offense inside the twenty yard line. Grade: A+

Coaching: Mike McCarthy made all the right calls and perhaps his best call was to let Aaron Rodgers end his game in the third quarter as the game was already well in hand. Dom Capers called a nice game and got a lot of Packers defenders into the backfield consistently. Grade: A

NFL Week 4 Game Predictions

How I did last week: 9-7

Teams on bye: Seahawks, Broncos, Bengals, Browns, Cardinals, and Rams

Dolphins at Raiders: I like the Dolphins to win in Oakland. It just seems like nothing is going right in Oakland and Dennis Allen's seat is getting warmer and warmer. Look for the Dolphins defense to pull out in this tight affair. Dolphins win 17-16

Lions at Jets: The Lions are on fire after shutting down the Packers high-powered offense last week and they should continue against a much worse Jets offense this week. Lions win 27-17

Packers at Bears: This is a huge game that could determine how the NFC North race ends up. The Packers could start the year with two consecutive losses to division opponents or right the ship. Look for Aaron Rodgers to get his team back on track with a big game at Soldier Field. Packers win 31-27

Bills at Texans: Texans at home should amount into a victory, especially with the strong pass rush of the Texans against the young E.J. Manuel. The X-Factor in this one will be the Texans receivers like Andre Johnson and DeAndre Hopkins. They will need to support the passing offense for the Texans to pull away. Texans win 23-14

Panthers at Ravens: After a poor showing against the Browns at home, I don't think they can win against the strong Panthers defense without the playmakers they usually have. Look for Carolina's defense to have a field day. Panthers win 27-10

Titans at Colts: Andrew Luck and the Colts offense will out-duel the Titans less explosive attack and pull out at home. I think the Colts defense could have a major impact on the outcome, though. Colts win 28-13

Buccaneers at Steelers: After getting crushed by the Falcons, the Buccaneers have no chance to beat the new explosive offensive trio of Roethlisberger-Bell-Brown and get beat badly again. Steelers win 35-17

Jaguars at Chargers: Chargers will coast to an easy victory at home against a young Jaguar team, Phillip Rivers doesn't lose games he shouldn't. Chargers win 28-16

Falcons at Vikings: I like the Falcons to win again after a huge offensive showcase against Tampa and will again facing another bad defense in Minneapolis. Falcons win 27-20

Eagles at 49ers: This one will come down to the wire. I like the 49ers at home to beat the Eagles with a slow start to LeSean McCoy's season and hope Kaepernick plays well against the bad defense of Philly.  49ers win 23-20

Saints at Cowboys: I like Drew Brees against a really bad Cowboy's defense and demolish the Cowboys. Look for the Saints to try to establish the running game early and often to open up the play action game. Saints win 41-31

Patriots at Chiefs: I like the Patriots to capitalize on the Chief's slow start and get a big victory on the road. Brady will dissect the secondary and the Patriots defense will shut down the passing game. Patriots win 27-14

NFL Week 3 Predictions

Chargers at Bills:  A week after tearing through Seattle's Legion of Boom, look for Rivers to continue to thrive in Mike McCoy's system and dissect the Bill's secondary. Chargers win 31-20

Titans at Bengals: Bengals at home, look for a big game from Gio Bernard, as the Titans will likely look to shut down the Dalton-Green combination. Bernard will make a large impact both running the ball and out of the backfield. Also, I like Geno Atkins and that fearsome Bengals defense. Bengals win 27-13

Ravens at Browns: This could yet be another upset that the Browns provide for the rest of the NFL. I like the Browns to surprise their division rivals, as Joe Flacco will be forced to throw superstar cornerback Joe Haden's way with Bernard Pierce out with an injury. Browns win 20-17

Packers at Lions: Rodgers has a history of beating the Lions, and I don't think that will change. Look for Randall Cobb to have a great game, as the Lion's will be focusing on Jordy Nelson, who leads the league in catches and yards. Matthew Stafford will also have success, as this game will likely be a shootout, with the better quarterback winning. Packers win 41-34

Colts at Jaguars: The Colts caught a break, as after a horrendous 0-2 start to the season, they play against the jaguars. I expect Andrew Luck to help his team glide to an easy victory at EverBank Stadium. Colts win 31-16

Raiders at Patriots: This one is pretty easy. This will be a field day for Tom Brady and the Patriots offense, while the New England defense will focus on stopping Maurice Jones-Drew. Patriots win 35-13

Vikings at Saints: The saints wil bounce back this week against a Vikings team distracted by the Peterson issues. Look for Rob Ryan's defense to really show their stripes against an offense without their best plat maker. Saints win 30-13

Texans at Giants: The Giants have looked horrible through two weeks, and look for that to continue this week. JJ Watt and that pass rush will put a lot of pressure on Eli Manning, forcing him to make bad throws. Texans win 20-10

Redskins at Eagles: The Eagles offense will terrorize the under performing redskins defense. This game will likely be an offensive shootout, and Cousins will have a decent game, but his defense will not allow him to get his team the win. Eagles win 34-27

Cowboys at Rams: The cowboys will run the ball a lot this game, but Gregg Williams will counter that attack with the four first round pick players along that defensive line. The X-Factor in this game will be Tony Romo and the Cowboys passing attack. Cowboys win 24-13

 49ers at Cardinals: This is a game that is not getting enough credit. This will be a defensive shootout but I trust the 49ers to get it done and have Kaepernick and his legs take them to victory. 49ers win 17-13

Chiefs at Dolphins: I like the Chiefs in this one, even without Jamaal Charles. Alex Smith will be able to win this game, but the group that will push the Cheifs over the edge is the pass rush led by Tamba Hali. Chiefs win 17-13

Broncos at Seahawks: This is gonna be a great game. Arguably the beat offense in the league versus arguably the best and most fearsome defense. I like Peyton to beat the Seahawks as he rarely ever loses to a team twice in a row, and this will be no exception. Broncos win 31-30

Steelers at Panthers: A rock solid Panthers defense against a struggling Steelers team. Cam Newton will look great and look for Kelvin Benjamin to have a great night. Panthers win 23-10

Bears at Jets: A week after blowing a big lead at Lambeau, the Jets face the Packers biggest rival in the Bears, and after a great performance against the 49ers, the bears will cruise to another victory against the struggling jets. Bears win 31-20

Big Ten Basketball: Wisconsin Expectations

Many people say that the upcoming season for the Wisconsin Badgers mens basketball team is Final Four or bust. I am going to take it a step further, National Championship or bust!

I have broken down the components that will make this season the greatest in the history of Wisconsin athletics.

1. Coaching:
Bo Ryan is as consistent as they come. He has taken his Badger squad to the NCAA tournament every year he has coached. This has been achieved with a lot of three star recruits and only one five star in Sam Dekker. He has a great assistant coaches next to him in Greg Gard and Lemont Paris, who both contribute in recruiting and in-game situations. Coming off of his first and well deserved Final Four appearance, Ryan hopes to make his mark in history, a National Championship! He deserves his first championship more than any other coach in college basketball, as his name deserves to be named in the same sentence as other great coaches like Coach K, Jim Boeheim, John Calipari, Bill Self, and Tom Izzo. I believe he can achieve this feat and bring the Big Ten a championship, something the conference hasn't achieved since Izzo did it back at the start of the new millennium.

STARTING FIVE:

2. Traevon Jackson:
The often criticized Badger, Jackson has proven to be the undisputed leader of the team. And now that Ben Brust has left, and Jackson has become a senior, his leadership has to take a step up. From his clutch late game shots, to his ample distribution and underestimated and gritty defense. I expect his amount of turnovers to decrease with his experience as a senior and his clutch play to continue. Traevon Jackson has a lot of pressure on him but he is bound to have an incredible season leading the Badgers to history.

3. Josh Gasser: 
Defensive stalwart is a word often used to describe Josh Gasser, and that is a perfect description. Last year he matched up against the likes of Gary Harris, Nick Johnson, Joseph Young, and Nik Stauskas. He is one of the best perimeter defenders in the country and has a knack to come up with tough rebounds over taller and stronger players. Coming off of his torn ACL, it was reasonable that Gasser wasn't a huge contributor in the offense, but he will be depended upon to make a lot of baskets from behind the arc now that Brust, the all-time leading Badger in three pointers made, is gone.

4. Sam Dekker:
Dekker is a junior, but this may be his last season in a Wisconsin uniform. He is projected to be a chosen at an early slot in next years NBA Draft. A former five star recruit out of Sheboygan, Dekker has the physical attributes and skill set to be one of the most prolific scorers in the country. He will look to improve on his shot behind the arc and his defense this upcoming season. He was reportedly the best player at the LeBron James summer camp and has grown two inches to be 6-9 and has hit the weight room quite a bit this summer. He is the most talented player Bo Ryan has ever had to coach and I think he will repay the legendary coach by exceeding the already high expectations bearing down on him.

5. Nigel Hayes/Bronson Koenig: 
The recent growth of Sam Dekker makes me wonder if Bo Ryan will continue to use three guards in the the lineup switching the graduated Brust with up and coming star Bronson Koenig. I am starting to think that they will start the season with Nigel Hayes, and if he has trouble playing against faster teams, Koenig will come in. Hayes has a spectacular approach on defense and his spot up jumper perfectly complements his in the paint scoring. Koenig is the prototypical Badger, a small, scrawny, and scrappy white guy who is a magnificent three  point shooter and scrambles for tough rebounds over taller players. This will be more of match ups with Hayes starting against bigger and stronger teams, while Koenig will play against faster, three-point oriented teams.

6. Frank Kaminsky:
The production and success of Frank Kaminsky was in the least bit expected. His amazing run of efficiency both inside and outside of the three point line. His defense was great, often blocking out rebounding more athletic bigs. He has high expectations coming into this season, as he will have a target on his back, something he didn't experience last season. He is considered a high draft pick in the upcoming NBA draft, a National Player of the Year candidate, and will lead a team of Badgers to unparalleled expectations in the history of Badgers basketball. Kaminsky's leadership and run of success will be a very big part of the Badgers title hopes this upcoming season.

7. Bench:
The main players off the bench this season will consist of four players, much like last season. Whoever isn't starting between Nigel Hayes and Bronson Koenig will be the sixth man and a contender for the Big Ten Sixth Man of the Year Award, the award that Hayes won last season. Second off the bench will be forward and Badger mainstay Duje Dukan, who provides gritty and defense and rebounding while also adding a sweet touch on a three ball while on offense. Backing up Kaminsky and potentially Nigel Hayes will be sophomore Vitto Brown, who showed some promise on defense but to much on offense. Look for Brown to get more minutes while Ryan and the other coaches work on his offensive progress. The guards of the future for the Badgers is Bronson Koenig and the next player off the bench, Jordan Hill. Once Jackson and Gasser are gone, Ryan will depend on these scrappy guards. Hill brings a lot of speed and vision to the floor and looks to work on his shooting and defense this upcoming season.

8. Humility/Humbleness:
One is not to question Ryan's everlasting humility. The question is, how are the Badgers going to act after a Final Four season. Every game of the year, they will be the one's who has a target on their back and will have to become prone to huge upsets. The Badgers are used to being the ones upsetting the big stars. To take not only Coach Ryan, but the loyal fans of Wisconsin, to the promise land, it will take humbleness, teamwork, and selflessness. I believe that these scrappy Badgers have what it takes to take the next step, and make their marks in history.

Head Coach Bo Ryan

PG Traevon Jackson

SG Josh Gasser

F Sam Dekker

C Frank Kaminsky

Big Ten Football Preview: Michigan State

OFFENSE: Mike Dantonio's offense is led by junior quarterback Connor Cook. He won the job in September and went on to be announced to the second team All Big Ten. With the loss of Bennie Fowler, Cook's targets will be returning starter junior Macgarrett Kings who was suspended in spring and missed valuable time. His other target, junior Aaron Burbridge, is a tantalizing talent but had a down sophomore season.  Senior Tony Lippett emerged from the bottom of the depth chart to lead the team in receptions. At tight end, Josiah Price returns after starting during his freshman season, and his huge spring game raised expectations for this season. At placekicker they have Michael Geiger start after a solid freshman season.

At running back, Jeremy Langford returns for his senior season and has high expectations after a 1,422 yard season. He is hoping for another season where he finishes as a top five back in the Big Ten. Leading the offensive line will be senior center Jack Allen, who is among the best returning offensive linemen in the Big Ten. Another returning start along the line is sophomore left tackle Jack Conklin, who will have a lot of responsibility, protecting Connor Cook's blindside. With the loss of Blake Treadwell at left guard, former center Travis Jackson will shift over to be able to play significantly in his senior season. Connor Kruse will play at right guard and is a very versatile lineman. Kodi Kieler was one of the most talked about players in the spring and should be in line for a great season.

DEFENSE: The Spartan's defense last year was one of the best in not only the Big Ten but the country. Along the defensive line, the Spartans return both stud defensive ends from last year in junior Shilique Calhoun and senior Marcus Rush. Calhoun was the Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the year and is one of the most fearsome players in the country. Rush is very underrated and has been a major part of the Spartan defense in his career. In the middle is a pair of juniors in Lawrence Thomas and Damon Knox. When Thomas is healthy he is one of the most talented players on the field. Knox will play at the nose tackle position and provides a big body to push forward into the backfield. Senior Mike Sadler led the nation in punts inside the ten yard line and will be one of, in not the best punter in the Big Ten.

Taiwan Jones takes the leadership from the graduated Max Bullough and Denicos Allen. He was a tantalizing talent at outside linebacker and gets his chance inside. Trying to replace Allen's production is junior Ed Davis as the blitzing linebacker for the intimidating Spartan defense. Replacing Jones on the other side is junior Darien Harris and should produce nicely. The Spartans secondary loses two very productive players in first round draft pick Darqueze Dennard and Isaiah Lewis. Replacing Dennard is Darian Hicks who hopes to help in protecting the red zone. Trae Waynes is considered the next great corner in East Lansing. Jalyn Powell will try to bring his physical game to the Spartans center field. Senior Kurtis Drummond was first team All Big Ten last year and hopes to repeat this season.

RECRUITING: Dantonio's class is headlined by five star defensive end Malik McDowell and four star defensive back Montae Nicholson. McDowell should start in his second year in East Lansing and Nocholson will get his turn in the talented secondary of the Spartans. Dantonio and his staff also got a huge get with four star DT Craig Evans from Wisconsin and he will line of next to McDowell in the future.

2015 Needs by Steve Wiltfong: The Rose Bowl champs don't have many needs in 2015 as much of this roster will return the following season. Michigan State could take three running backs in this class; they do need a long snapper, and they'll continue to try to stack offensive linemen after taking only one two years ago-and a handful in 2014.

OVERVIEW: Michigan State should not only contend for a Big Ten title but will contend for the College Football Playoff and a national championship. They are so talented on defense and have pieces on offense to be explosive.

QB Connor Cook

RB Jeremy Langford

DE Shilique Calhoun

CB Trae Waynes

LB Taiwan Jones

Big Ten Football Preview: Penn State

OFFENSE: James Franklin comes into Penn State with a very solid offense. Sophomore returning starter Christian Hackenberg was Big Ten's top freshman and is hoping to prove to be a top ten quarterback in the country. Looking to fill Allen Robinson's role on the offense is Geno Lewis, who has the athleticism and speed to be a great playmaker for the Nittany Lions. The other wideout will be sure-handed junior Matt Zanellato, although he only has six career catches and needs to gain experience fast. Jesse James returns and hopes to become Hackenberg's most reliable pass catcher now that Allen Robinson has left for the NFL.

Returning at running back is running mates and seniors Zach Zwinak and Bill Benton. Zwinak barely missed out on his second one thousand yard season and will continue his bruising back ways. I think these backs compliment each other perfectly and Benton is a great change of pace back for Zwinak. The left tackle, Franklin has his best lineman and anchor in junior Donovan Smith. Next to him will be Derek Dowrey, who moved over from defense due to injuries. In them middle will be junior Angelo Mangiro, who's best attribute is his versatility. Replacing John Urschel along the line Brian Gaia, who like fellow guard along the line, comes over from defense. At right tackle, Franklin will rely on redshirt freshman Andrew Nelson, who was praised by his former staff for his work ethic and effort. At place kicker, they return to senior and returning starter Sam Ficken.

DEFENSE: The Nittany Lions lose a key part of their line in DaQuan Jones, who's physicality will be missed on the inside. Replacing him in the middle is junior Anthony Zettel and sophomore Austin Johnson, who replaces Jones because of his productivity as a reserve. Zettel moves inside and hopes to prove that was the right decision. Returning at ends are Deion Barnes and C.J. Olaniyan. Olaniyan is a senior and hopes to build off a breakout year in which he led the team in sacks. Barnes had a down season after a great freshman season.

Franklin loses a leader at linebacker in Glenn Carson, and replacing him as the leader of the defense os senior Mike Hull, a tough guy who finally gets his chance in the middle. Next to him will be sophomores Brandon Bell, who gets the starting job after a strong finish last year, and Nyeem Wartman, who made big stops last year. Leading the secondary is junior Jordan Lucas, who was a surprise star last year. Trevor Williams will be the other corner and is a ball hawk very capable of turning the ball over. Returning for his senior season his Adrian Amos who has a lot of experience on this defense and will be a leader. Next to him will be fellow senior Ryan Keiser, who will be in his first full season as the starter. Freshman punter Chris Gulla is the top candidate to start.

RECRUITING: James Franklin is about as good as it gets for rerouting head coaches and he even helped the Nittany Lion's 2014 class with some headlining names including four stars: WR Saeed Blacknall, QB Michael O'Connor, and TE Mike Gesicki. Blacknall was the third best recruit out of New Jersey and a big get for Penn State. O'Connor is a great signal caller and will be the next quality quarterback for Penn State after Hackenberg. Gesicki will have to wait his turn behind two talented tight ends but will have his time to shine for Coach Franklin.

2015 Needs by Steve Wiltfong: As Penn State builds its roster back to 85 after suffering from NCAA sanctions, the Nittany Lions need a little bit of everything, but offensive line will be the main focus with James Franklin and his staff aiming for five. Defensive end and defensive back are two spots at which Penn State is thin.

OVERVIEW: I think that Penn State has the talent in the offense with the quarterbacks and the backs to compete but they will come up short of winning the Big Ten East without a solid defense. They will reach a solid bowl game and James Franklin will keep big time recruits coming to the Happy Valley.

QB Christian Hackenberg

WR Geno Lewis

CB Jordan Lucas

LB Mike Hull

RB Zach Zwinak

Predicting Packers 53 Man Roster

The Packers have a stacked roster and have a lot of extra players who will get picked up by other teams but they have to limit the roster to 53 players. This i what I think the roster should look like. Let's see how I do:

QB: Aaron Rodgers and Scott Tolzien (2)
I don't think the Packers have enough roster space to keep both Tolzien and Flynn and give the nod to Tolzien because of his athleticism and his vast improvement over the year.

RB: Eddie Lacy, James Starks, DuJuan Harris, and Josh Kuhn (4)
This is a pretty set position for the packers and can't see Raijon Neal get on because of his injury issues.

WR: Jordy Nelson, Randall Cobb, Jarrett Boykin, DaVante Adams, and Jeff Janis (5)
The only reason to keep a guy like Kevin Dorsey on the roster is for special team purposes only. This is one of the Packers deepest positions and have a lot of upside in their fifth receiver, Janis.

TE: Richard Rodgers, Andrew Quarless, Brandon Bostick, and Ryan Taylor (4)
I give the nod to Taylor over Stoneburner because Taylor os a better blocker and a major contributor on special teams.

O-LINE: David Bakhtiari, Josh Sitton, Corey Linsley, T.J. Lang, Bryan Bulaga, Derrek Sherrod, Lane Taylor, added player off another team (8)
The Packers offensive line depth has gotten thin thanks to the injuries of J.C. Tretter and Aaron Adams.  I expect the Packers to pick up a player off another team while they wait for Tretter to come back.

D-LINE: Datone Jones, Letroy Guion, Mike Daniels, Josh Boyd, and Mike Pennel (5)
You may see the Packers add another player like Carlos Gray or Luther Robinson but this is very thin defensive line depth with the loss of B.J. Raji for the year and Thornton for some time.

Outside Linebackers: Clay Matthews, Julius Peppers, Nick Perry, Mike Neal, Jayrone Elliot, Andy Mulumba (6)
I really like the depth the Packers have at outside linebacker and you may see Mulumba replaced with a guy like Nate Palmer or even Adrian Hubbard but I gave it to Mulumba based on his special teams play.

Inside Linbackers: A.J. Hawk, Brad Jones, Jamari Lattimore, Sam Barrington, Carl Bradford (5)
The only questionable call was Bradford who has struggled but Packers spent a big pick on him so there is no reason to cut him.

CB: Tramon Williams, Sam Shields, Casey Hayward, Davon House, Jarrett Bush, Jamal Rolle (6)
I give the nod to Jamal Rolle over Demetri Goodson based on Rolle's play recently.

S: Morgan Burnett, Micah Hyde, Haha Clinton-Dix, Sean Richardson, Chris Banjo (5)
The Packers have the space for both Richardson and Banjo as Richardson will provide depth and Banjo will mainly contribute on special teams.

Specialists: Mason Crosby, Tim Masthay, Brett Goode (3)

QB Scott Tolzien

TE Ryan Taylor

OLB Jayrone Elliot

 S Chris Banjo

Big Ten Football Preview: Rutgers

OFFENSE: Rutger's offense is led by senior Gary Nova and junior power back Paul James. Nova has a lot of experience is coach Kyle Flood's offensive system but has a tendency to miss is targets and throw interceptions. The Scarlet Knights lost both their starting wide receivers headlined by Brandon Coleman. His targets this year will be led by junior Leonte Caroo who has reportedly had a great summer and looks like a complete receiver. Replacing Coleman's production will be sophomore athlete Ruhann Peele who played both corner and wideout but is now strictly a receiver this year. Nova's most reliable target and star of the offense will be junior tight end Tyler Kroft. He led the team in receptions and yards last year and is a huge piece of the passing game in Piscataway.

In nine games, Paul James ran for 881 yards and averaged 5.6 yards per carry. He will like to reach a thousand yards this year and get double digit touchdowns for the Scarlet Knights as he leads the offense. He will run behind senior fullback Michael Burton who not only led the way for James but caught two touchdown cathces last year. The Rutgers return all five starters along the offensive line. At left tackle, we find mammoth 6-8 Keith Lumpkin who, with a big season could head to the NFL a year early. Next to him was senior Kaleb Johnson who was predicted seventh rounder for this year's draft but decided to come back for his senior season. In the middle will be senior Betim Bujari who has a lot of experience and will bring leadership to the line. At right guard, Chris Muller will hope to build off a solid redshirt freshman season. And at right tackle will be senior Taj Alexander who will hope to improve in pass protection. At placekicker, Flood will return to junior Kyle Federico for another season.

DEFENSE: Joe Rossi will now be in his first season as the defensive coordinator and is known to have good game plans for certain opponents. Rutgers loses both of last years starting defensive ends in Marcus Thompson and Jamil Merrell, and this year they will go with senior David Milewski and junior Dwjany Mera, a returning starter from the line. Mera was the most consistent performer on the line last season and Milewski hopes to turn in his first healthy season as a starter. In the middle of Flood's 3-4 scheme is senior nose guard Kenneth Kirksey and junior Darius Hamilton. Kirksey missed ten games last year with an injury while Hamilton had a productive sophomore season, finishing with 48 tackles and 4.5 sacks.

Their are two returning starters in the linebacking corps with Steve Longa and Kevin Snyder. Replacing Jamal Merrell is Quentin Gause, who missed the spring with a shoulder injury but is ready to compete. Longa moves to outside this year to utilize his great speed and vision. Snyder is very experienced and makes great reads before the snap. At cornerback, Rutgers will go with Ian Thomas, who returns to the team after quitting last year and senior Gareef Glashen, who was a part-time starter and shows impressive tackling skills. Sophomore Delon Stephenson was trained as a corner but will be needed as a free safety with the loss of Jeremy Deering. Next to him will be returning starter and senior Lorenzo Waters who brings a lot of needed leadership to the young secondary. With the loss of last year's starting punter Nick Marsh, Joe Roth will step up after a consistent spring.

RECRUITING: Rutger's had an underwhelming 2014 recruitment failing to bring in big in-state prospects. Josh Hicks is the headliner as he comes in as the number eleven all purpose back and brings a lot of speed and power to the Rutgers backfield, which will be needed once Paul James graduates. Fellow Florida prospect and three star lineman Marcus Applefield will be very important for Rutgers future at offensive line. Finally, they scored the twentieth ranked player from New Jersey and three star linebacker Sidney Gopre who is a very talented and athletic linebacker who should contribute early on in his Rutgers career.

2015 Needs by Steve Wiltfong: The Scarlet Knights struggled in the secondary last season, and while they played a lot of young kids, defensive backs remain a need in 2015. Rutgers will also look to sign three to four offensive linemen after taking just one two years ago. The Scarlet Knights will also aim to score three receivers and two tight ends.

OVERVIEW: I think that Rutgers will struggle in 2014, especially with a step up in competition. With an inexperienced secondary and limited talent along the defensive line. It will be hard to stop the star running backs and athletic playmakers in the Big Ten. I expect them to have a losing season and miss out on a bowl game.

LB Kevin Snyder

QB Gary Nova

RB Paul James

TE Tyler Kroft

SS Lorenzo Waters

Big Ten Football Preview: Maryland

OFFENSE: Simply, Maryland has an explosive offense. Led by senior quarterback C.J. Brown, who can hurt you running with the football and throwing it. He is a six year senior and brings a load of experience and leadership. He has two great receiving threats on the outside with junior Stefon Diggs and senior Deon Long. Stefon Diggs is not only the most dangerous member of the offense but may be the most dangerous playmaker in the Big Ten. Long averaged 15.3 yards per catch last year and will help keep double teams away from Diggs. Sophomore P.J. Gallo hopes to use his big body to be a lead blocker and make catches all over the field.

Returning starter junior tailback Brandon Ross is an extremely powerful runner and a perfect match in this pro offense for the Terrapins. Leading the way for him will be sophomore fullback Kenneth Goins Jr. who is extremely athletic and versatile. The offensive line will be lead by senior center Sal Conaboy who has 22 career starts and is very comfortable with Brown. Junior left tackle Ryan Doyle is very athletic and played on the right and left side last year. Right tackle will be occupied by sophomore Michael Dunn who shifted over from guard. At left guard, coach Randy Edsall will plug Silvano Altamirano and right guard will be 300 pound Andrew Zeller, who is known for his powerful interior run blocking. Kicking for the terrapins will be reliable and consistent junior Brad Craddock.

DEFENSE: In Randy Edsall's 3-4 defensive scheme, he will have returning starter Quinton Jefferson and star senior Andre Monroe at defensive ends. Monroe will make big strides in the Big Ten this year. In the middle he will have gigantic run plugger and returning starter Darius Kilgo, which will help in the run heavy Big Ten. Three out of the four linebackers return this year, with the loss of Marcus Whitfield. The returning linebackers are seniors Cole Farrand, Matt Robinson, and L.A. Goree. Farrand was an honorable mention last year in the ACC and will make a big impact in the run heavy Big Ten. Robinson was a former safety and excelled at quickly disrupting plays in the backfield. Goree was a tackle machine last year but may take on more of a pass rushing role this year. The new starter this year will be fellow senior Yannik Cudjoe-Virgil. He missed seven games last year due to injury and is ready to make an impact in his last year in College Park, Maryland.

The secondary lost a big name last year in second round pick Dexter McDougle. He will be replaced with senior Jeremiah Johnson who doesn't have a lot of experience but has good playmaking ability. Rwturning starter and sophomore Will Likely was a speedster and showed a lot of promise as a freshman. At safety, coordinator Brian Stewart will start a pair of juniors who both started last year in Sean Davis and Anthony Nixon. Davis is strong in run support and led the team in tackles last year. Nixon struggled as the teams center fielder and will be depended on to improve and create turnovers this year. Returning at punter will be junior Nathan Renfro who will have to work to keep is job after an underwhelming sophomore season.

RECRUITING: Maryland's class is headlined by 5-star offensive tackle Damien Prince, who was the number one recruit out of the state if Maryland. He is exactly what you look for in an offensive lineman and has improved in both run blocking and pass protection. He is a future All Big Ten performer. Maryland also hauled in four star offensive lineman Derwin Gray and what stands out about Gray is his strength is better than most offensive lineman. Fellow four star linebacker Jesse Aniebonam and wide receiver Juwann Winfree will be solid contributors for Maryland in the future.

2015 Needs by Steve Wiltfong: Offensive line was the strength of the 2014 class for Randy Edsall and his staff and it will need to be again in 2015, as the Terrapins likely won't get much from their upperclassmen. Quarterback is also a big need this cycle despite signing four star dual/athlete Will Ulmer in 2014. The whole defensive front is an area of need for Maryland, and they'll also look to continue building depth in the secondary.

OVERVIEW: Maryland's offense will once again be dominant although their is a lot of question marks along the offensive line. Maryland's defense has a lot of seniors and will be properly led, but questions in the secondary and a step up in competition this year might keep this team from competing in the Big Ten. I think Maryland will reach a bowl game, but they will struggle to get there.

QB C.J. Brown

DE Andre Monroe

LB Cole Farrand

CB Will Likely

WR Stefon Diggs

Breakout Offensive Players at Each Position in the Big Ten

This is a list of players that may have already shown themselves to the Big Ten, but is in line for a monster season.

QB: C.J. Brown, Maryland: Although he is a sixth year senior, C.J. Brown has the unique chance to show a new set of people his talent as he moves from the ACC to the Big Ten. He is a very dangerous runner and is very elusive on the outside. His accuracy has improved and look for him to take a step up this year and show he can stay in the pocket and show his arm strength.
(Also considered: Wes Lunt, Illinois)

RB: Tevin Coleman, Indiana: I expect Tevin Coleman to not only be the threat in the high powered and unstoppable Indiana offense, but be a top five running back in the run-friendly Big Ten. He perfectly combines power with speed and will be the most dependable player for Coach Wilson at Indiana.
(Also considered: Mark Weisman, Iowa)

WR: For wide receiver, I am going to go with two guys, who play a totally different game and that is Shane Wynn at Indiana and Christian Jones at Northwestern. Indiana lost Cody Latimer to the early rounds of the draft and replace him with the shifty and very small Shane Wynn who will provide an insane amount of playmaking ability for Coach Wilson at Indiana. Jones is the opposite of Wynn, because he is a big target and will excel at jump balls and deep throws downfield, using his long strides to outrun shorter cornerbacks.
(Also considered: Deon Long, Maryland and Tony Lippett, Michigan State)

TE: Maxx Williams, Minnesota: In my opinion, Maxx William has the talent to be one of the best tight ends in the nation. Unfortunately, Williams doesn't have the quarterback to even be the best in the Big Ten right now. That title belongs to Devin Funchess at Michigan, but Maxx has an advantage on Devin  as Williams is a sophomore and Funchess is a junior. This could be the year Williams breaks out, but if it isn't he will be a huge talent in his final three years in Minneapolis.
(Also considered: Jeff Heuerman, Ohio State)

OT: Donovan Smith, Penn State and Tyler Marz, Wisconsin: What these two players share is power, technique and driving ability. They are both anchors for their respective schools and a huge part of their power run game and both excel at protecting the quarterback. I expect both of these players to display their talent this year and be a huge part of their team's success on the offense.
(Also considered: Taylor Decker, Ohio State and Keith Lumpkin, Rutgers)

G: Kaleb Johnson, Rutgers and Jake Cotton, Nebraska: I think both of theses players are driving forces along their respective offensive lines and Johnson even was predicted to be a let round pick in last years draft but decided to come back to improve upon that stock. Cotton is a very experienced player and has played in a high powered running offense his whole college career.
(Also considered: Dallas Lewallen, Wisconsin and Zac Epping, Minnesota)

C: Austin Blythe, Iowa: He moved from guard to center this year and hasn't missed a step along the way. A big guy, he is perfect for the type of offense Iowa runs and will be essential to Iowa's success this season.

Big Ten Football Preview: Minnesota

OFFENSE: Minnesota loses last years starting quarterback Phillip Nelson to transfer and will rely on sophomore thrower Mitch Leidner to make all the tough throws for Coach Jerry Kill's revamped offense. He returns his star playmaker from last year in senior back David Cobb. A bruising back who likes bump off the tackle will have one more run with the Gophers and wants it to be a good one. Fellow back Rodrick Williams Jr. is an explosive back who excels at finding space between the tackles and will get an advantage in the offense because unlike Cobb and Kirkwood, Williams Jr. is a junior. I think that Minnesota's stable of backs is top five in the Big Ten and could come out of the gate at full speed and may surprise a couple people.

Leidner's biggest weapon will be sophomore tight end Maxx Williams who led the team in receiving yards last year as a freshman and is an explosive threat whether he is blocking for shifty runners Cobb and Kirkwood, or towering over a defensive back making a tough catch. At the wide receiver position, and a clear leader of the offense, is part time but reliable senior pass catcher Isaac Fruechte. He had no touchdown receptions last year but hopes to change that as he steps into a spot where Minnesota was weak in last year and that was playmaking. Sophomore Drew Wolitarsky will line up opposite of Fruechte and after a solid freshman year hopes to show that his great athletic ability can translate to touchdowns and big plays for Jerry Kill's offense. At kicker, freshman Ryan Santoso steps in for the graduated Chris Hawthorne and provides a strong leg for the Golden Gophers.

The Gophers offensive line should look something like this: LT Ben Lauer, LG Zac Epping, C Tommy Olsen, RG Foster Bush, and RT Josh Campion. Sophomore Ben Lauer was a freshman All-American last year and is one of the hidden gems in the Big Ten. Next to him will be experienced senior Epping who has started 34 games and the bulky guard looks to work on his quickness and stamina this year for his final run with Minnesota. Former four star recruit at guard, Olson shifted to center last year and will be counted on to be a leader in the trenches. Known to be an amazing run blocker, I look forward to watching him create space for Cobb and Williams this year. Due to a career-ending concussion Jerry Kill will depend upon junior guard Foster Bush to step up into the place of Caleb Bak. He is a powerful lineman and has great initial momentum to push the D-lineman back before he can make a move. 6-5 326 pound Junior Josh Camion is the largest on the line and probably the most athletic. He is a great mover and is improving his pass protection.

DEFENSE: With the loss of one of the most physically imposing players I have see in Ra'shede Hageman gone from Minneapolis, I still think Minnesota returns a lot of talent along the defensive line. Junior defensive end Thieren Cockran had a team high 7.5 sacks last year and he is among my Big Ten breakout players this year at defensive end. The other defensive end in Minneapolis will be Michael Amaefula who gets the nod because of his experience as he has been a starter for the golden gophers since his freshman season, and should be determined to have a great season, as it will be his last at Minnesota. In the middle of Kill's 4-3 will be senior Cameron Botticelli and junior Scott Ekpe. Botticelli learned a lot from Hageman and takes a lot of room which will help with all the power backs in the Big Ten. Ekpe has added strength throughout his first couple of years in Minnesota and will work on his technique in the inside while adding pass rush beside pass rushing genius Cockran.

Minnesota's linebackers will be led by senior and former junior college transfer Damien Wilson who is great in pass coverage and getting to the runner. Junior De'Vondre Campbell is undersized for linebacker but has the athleticism to compete for Coach Kill. Sophomore Jack Lynn played three games as a redshirt freshman last year but has learned a lot of Minnesota's system and is ready to step up as a starter this year on this talented Minnesota defense. At punter, returning starter junior Peter Mortell emerged as one of the Big Ten's best punters with a 43.3 years average.

The golden gopher secondary loses a big leader and playmaker in Brock Vereen. Replacing him at safety will be junior Antonio Johnson and has the size and speed to make a positive impact for Minnesota this year. Returning starter Cedric Thompson will line up next to Johnson and led the team with 79 tackles last year. He will be depended on for leadership as he is a senior. At cornerback Kill will plug senior Derrick Wells and junior Eric Murray. Murray had ten pass breakups last year and was considered the gophers best cornerback last year in pass coverage. Wells is a decent corner but has struggled in the past in coverage.

RECRUITING: Considering Minnesota finished eleventh in the Big Ten and 56th in the nation. The star of the class and future Golden Gopher star is there only four star recruit running back Jeff Jones. They got a huge receiver from Virginia in Melvin Holland Jr. I expect him to make a large impact in Minnesota's passing a track and deep ball threat in the coming years. And finally three star defensive tackle a Steven Richardson is undersized but very physical and will gain speed and physicality to his resume'.
2015 Needs by Steve Wiltfong: Minnesota only signed two defensive backs in 2014 and will look to bring in a slew of them in 2015. Also look for Jerry Kill and his staff to try and reel in four to five offensive linemen.
OVERVIEW: I think that Minnesota's offense will be powered by the physical running game led by the terrific trio of Cobb, Williams, and Kirkwood and that will definitely help Leidner in his first year as the full time starter. Maxx Williams performs in All-Big Ten form but the inexperienced defense that lacks the physical play and leadership of Vereen and Hageman. Minnesota finishes fourth in the Big Ten West and gets an upset win sometime during the season.

LB Damien Wilson

RB David Cobb

CB Eric Murray

DE Thieren Cockran

LT Ben Lauer