Conference Blast 9 - The Big East

Well, the first week of resumed real life is over. With the weekend comes a little extra time which I've used to wrap up the FTS pre-season conference predictions. First up, the last of the AQ leagues, the Big East. I know we've made fun of this conference, but it's actually a solid collection of teams, albeit a bit top-heavy.


The Big East Champion will be...Pitt. I almost went another way here because of the lack of experience coming back, but in the end, no other team makes sense as champion. And yes, it's 90% Dion Lewis. Let's hope the 'Stache learned from the Cincy loss not to abandon the run and the defense maintains it's statistical standing at the top of the league. The last two games are the toughest: WVU and at Cincy, but the Panthers should emerged unscathed to claim the crown.

2. West Virginia - Like with Pitt, I'm banking on the run game. A lot of Devine, early and often and a tough defense should keep the Mountaineers in contention for the conference title heading into the Backyard Brawl. In a toss-up, I'm taking the Panthers, which leaves WV in a close second.

3. UConn - Didn't see that coming, did you? The Huskies return 8 on each side of the ball, including the leading passer and rusher on offense and the leading tackler on defense. They get the best teams at home, with the season ending trip to Tampa the hardest road game. If they avoid any slip ups and maybe even upset WVU in a Friday night tilt, UConn could even compete for the title, but I still don't see enough athleticism to hang with the Backyard Brawlers.

4. South Florida - I think Skip Holtz is a good coach and has the easiest position of the new Big East coaches. The offense returns 10 led by athletic QB Daniels, and while the D might slip a bit, they should be good enough to win a key game or two en route to a 4-3 record.

5. Cincinnati - There will be some slippage here. With Brian Kelly gone, the Bearcats can't expect another title and undefeated season. Collaros played well in a relief role last season, but it won't be enough to escape the middle of the pack in 2010.

6. Rutgers - After what Rutgers did to me last season, I'm not saying anything.

7. Syracuse - Slow and steady wins the race. The rebuilding is tough, but Marone's got things headed the right way.

8. Louisville - I like Charlie Strong and I think he can win here, just not in 2010. The mid-season trip to Syracuse should shake out the cellar standings, and I'm taking the Orange in the Dome.