The winds of change: Miami's reign will end as Bob Stoops and Oklahoma return to the top spot - 2002 College Preview

Football Digest, August, 2002 by Joe Donatelli

10. NEBRASKA (11-2)

Quarterback Jammal Lord emerged this spring as the clear-cut choice to replace 2001 Heisman Trophy winner Eric Crouch. Lord attempted eight passes last season and admitted to loafing through practices, but he says he is ready now. Fortunately, the Huskers have had recent success handing the offensive reins to their backups. The same Scott Frost who played behind Tommy Frazier in 1995 led the Huskers to an undefeated season in 1997.

11. MICHIGAN (8-4)

The Big Ten is on its way back, and here's why: The conference is at its strongest when Michigan, Penn State, and Ohio State dominate, and each school is about a year away from doing so. Maybe less. You can add Wisconsin to the mix this year, as well. As usual, Michigan's defense is its strength. But the Wolverines will need a lot more from John Navarre and whoever else lines up behind center this fall.

12. OREGON (11-1)

Fans in Eugene are in for a letdown following the best season in school history. But not a big one. Jason Fife will replace Joey Harrington at quarterback. (Little known fact: Fife had a speaking role in the 1993 movie "Addams Family Values" as Camper No. 1.) New offensive coordinator Andy Ludwig has arrived from pass-happy Fresno State, where his system allowed David Carr to develop into a Heisman candidate and the No. 1 pick in the 2002 draft.

13. SOUTH CAROLINA (9-3)

Shall we go way out on a limb and predict they'll end their season with a bowl victory over Ohio State? Oh, why not? But first, the Gamecocks will have to find a way to replace graduated quarterback Phil Petty and troubled running back Derek Watson. Don't worry--this is just the kind of goofy, no-pressure-onus outlook coach Lou Holtz loves taking into any season.

14. LOUISVILLE (11-2)

From the relatively anonymous Conference USA and guided by relatively anonymous coach John Smith comes a talented Cardinals squad led by (you guessed it) relatively anonymous quarterback Dave Ragone, tight end Ronnie Ghent, and defensive end Dewayne White. Louisville was last seen at the Liberty Bowl ending the season of a BYU team many people had thought should be included in the BCS Bowl series. A bigger bowl date awaits the Cardinals in 2002.

15. PENN STATE (5-7)

This is the season they turn it back around. The Nittany Lions closed out 2001 by winning five of their final seven games, including victories over Northwestern, Ohio State, and Michigan State. In all three games, quarterback Zack Mills rallied Penn State from behind, proving to be the school's best signalcaller since Kerry Collins. Running back Larry Johnson runs behind a line that returns four starters.

16. STANFORD (9-3)

New coach Buddy Teevens brings Steve Spurrier's Fun 'N Gun offense with him from Florida, a dramatic departure from Tyrone Willingham's conservative approach to ... just about everything. Better believe quarterback Chris Lewis and the offense are excited about that. And if you don't think the Cardinal can adjust, just remember these students go to Stanford, where football is a pleasant diversion from quantum mechanics.