The defense may have lost several of its star players including Sedrick Ellis and Keith Rivers (the #7 and #9 picks in the 2008 NFL Draft, respectively) but the Trojans have the potential to be even better this year. Butkus Award candidate Rey Maualuga is one of the best middle linebackers to come through USC in a long time. Strongside LB Brian Cushing—a fellow Butkus candidate—also returns for his senior year. In addition to the linebackers, junior free safety Taylor Mays has drawn comparisons to Ronnie Lott and defensive tackle Fili Moala may get drafted #1 overall in the 2009 Draft.
As long as a relatively inexperienced line can protect Mark Sanchez and block for Allen Bradford, Joe McKnight and co., this team could be scary. USC had better get out of the gate quick because its first five opponents in 2008—including BCS runner-up Ohio State—were all bowl teams last year.
5. West Virginia Mountaineers (11-2, 5-2 in Big East, 2007 Big East Champions)
With everything on the line at the end of last season, the Mountaineers broke down and were upset by rival Pitt, 13-9, in their annual Backyard Brawl. Even after a blowout victory over Oklahoma in the Fiesta Bowl, the sour taste of a lost opportunity still remains. Despite all of his accolades, fourth-year starter Pat White seeks the one thing that has eluded him the past few years: a national championship.
White’s health and his supporting cast will have a lot to do with whether this goal can be achieved. While the loss of Steve Slaton, Darius Reynaud and Owen Schmitt might hurt, their replacements (Noel Devine, Dorrell Jalloh, and Will Johnson, respectively) could be even better.
The offense has plenty of firepower, but can the defense stop anyone? With only four starters returning to the unique 3-3-5 defense, that question may not be answered until the Mountaineers face Auburn, UConn and Louisville late in the season.
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