I am worried, as are most of the good people in Lawrence, Kansas, about whether both starting tackles can be replaced effectively, especially left tackle Anthony Collins.  The receiving unit is younger, but they are quality athletes.

Many knock the Big 12 as a whole for its lack of defense.  I think Kansas may be somewhat of an exception.  Even though they did play a soft schedule, they came up fourth in the nation last year in scoring defense and 12th overall.  They return nine defensive starters this year.

While their defense against the pass looked a little suspect last year, I think they may improve to be a Big 12 North contender.  Their defense, however, was not tested last year the way it will be this year.  Missouri was the only powerful offense they faced (any ACC fan will tell you Virginia Tech lives and dies by their defense).

Opponents: An early matchup at South Florida on September 12 will show what Kansas is all about this year.  South Florida is well-known for being all over the place.  Are you going to see the USF that beat Auburn and WVU?  Or the one that lost to Rutgers, UConn, and Cincinnati all in a row?  I think a more durable and consistent Kansas will overtake USF.

Kansas should go unbeaten all the way to Norman on October 18 and then get smacked.  Oklahoma looks better on both offense and defense…and it is in Norman.  There is no way Kansas walks out of there alive.

After they get beaten up by Oklahoma, they have Texas Tech next week, who I think can outscore Kansas.  While late season wins over Kansas State, Nebraska, and Texas will distinguish the season, there is little chance of a BCS repeat.  The Border War is on November 29.  Look for a repeat.

Prediction: 9-3

I am going to be moving to the great state of Louisiana over the next few weeks.  I should have Part 4 done by Tuesday at the latest and will do my best to have Part 5 done by next Friday.

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