Three Best Teams:
Cincinnati: Any one of roughly six teams could (and may) occupy this spot over the course of the season, but Cincy gets the nod for winning the league in 2008.
West Virginia: Life goes on APW (After Pat White) for the Mountaineers, in what will be a telling season for head coach Bill Stewart. One thing is certain – West Virginia’s offense remains dangerously explosive.
Rutgers: Led by wide-out Kenny Britt Rutgers should once again be a force in the Big East.
Three Must-See Games
Cincinnati at Rutgers (September 7): The winner of this opener will take early season command of the Big East standings before entering into the meat of their OOC schedule; this game could set the tone for the Big East season.
South Florida at Florida State (September 26): The Bulls have been clamoring for a shot at their fellow in-state powers – this is their chance to make a loud statement for the Big East.
Pittsburgh at West Virginia (November 27): One of the best rivalries in college football rarely fails to disappoint; this year’s version could serve as a de facto league championship game.
Five Play-makers You Should Know:
Greg Paulus (Syracuse, quarterback): After spending four years at Duke following his basketball dreams, Paulus returns home to upstate New York where he’s been handed the starting quarterback spot for the Orange.
Marshawn Gilyard (Cincinnati, wide receiver): This scintillating receiver is a threat to score anytime he touches the ball and accumulated over 1,200 yards receiving last season and 11 touchdowns. With quarterback Tony Pike also returning for the Bearcats Gilyard will continue to bedevil opposing cornerbacks in 2009.
Scott Lutrus (Connecticut, linebacker): The junior led the Huskies in tackles last season (with 106) and was an All Big East Second team selection – look for him to continue his solid production.
Jarrett Brown (West Virginia, quarterback): Brown has waiting in the wings for three years while Pat White finished his eligibility and now takes full control of the Mountaineer offense. He’s been more than capable as a back-up but how will he handle the pressure as the starter?
George Selvie (South Florida, defensive end): The two-time All-American is back for one more season (although it feels like his sixth or seventh) and will look to help the Bulls finally win the Big East title – something that despite their success they’ve yet to accomplish since joining the conference in 2005.
