Big 12 South Preview
Always a hard division to pick, but here goes.
1. Oklahoma – The Sooners have another great team and another good shot at running the table and getting to the National Championship game. Even after being manhandled in the bowl game to WVU, I look for this team to rebound and win the Big 12 overall as well as the South.
2. Texas Tech – A lot of people are getting on the Leach bandwagon this year and I’m one of them. His best defense yet and I don’t think I have to mention Crabtree and Harrell, both of whom will rewrite the record books this season. If would not surprise me to see them come into Norman on Nov 22 10-0, facing a 10-0 Oklahoma team.
3. Texas – A talented team to pick 3rd, especially since I see them as a legitimate National Title contender. Drawing Kansas and Missouri out of the North hurts though and they have the toughest schedule of each of the top 3 teams. I just don’t see them coming through it unscathed.
4. Oklahoma State – OSU disappointed me last season as I had them as one of my top teams. They struggled out of the gate and basically throughout several parts of the season. To me, that’s coaching. Gundy lost this temper at a press conference, and lost my confidence in his ability as well. I predict they match last years 7 win total and go bowling, but they are talented enough to win more.
5. Texas A&M – New coach Mike Sherman has just 10 returning starters, but does have an experienced QB in Stephen McGee. Both sides of the ball must learn completly new schemes and both O-line and D-line have several question marks. I don’t see them having a losing season, but don’t look for them to make a huge impact this season. My prediction is about 7 or 8 wins.
6. Baylor – Poor Baylor Bears. I will say this, I like the hire of Art Briles. Now, if the administration just gives him about 5 years to turn it around and then sticks with him through season after seasons of around 6 wins (you’re Baylor, be happy with 6 wins and an occasional 7 or 8 win season). Look for about a 3 wins this season.