The list of the top newcomers for the Trojan is endless, but the ones expected to fill holes immediately are OL Matt Kalil, WR D.J. Shoemate, TE Blake Ayles, and DL Nick Perry.
Projected Record: 12-1 (one-and-a-half games over assigned total)
6. Ohio State
Over/Under Odds: 10 wins
When looking at Ohio State’s roster, not much has changed from last year's BCS National Championship Game appearance against the LSU Tigers, where the Buckeyes lost 38-24. The loss marked their second consecutive BCS National Championship defeat, the year before losing to the Florida Gators, led by the dynamic duo of QBs Chris Leak and Tim Tebow.
The Buckeyes return 10 starters on offense and nine starters on defense, leaving only three spots to be filled in the starting lineup. One of those spots will be filled by highly touted freshman Mike Adams, on the offensive side of the ball at right tackle.
The Buckeyes return Heisman hopeful Chris “Beanie” Wells to anchor the backfield, with composed senior Todd Boeckman under center.
Just when you thought the Buckeyes couldn’t get any better, their defense will once again yield the fewest amount of yards in the nation, led by senior LB James Laurinaitis and lockdown CB Malcolm Jenkins.
The toughest task of the year for the Buckeyes will be a showdown at the LA Coliseum against the USC Trojans on September 13. If the Buckeyes get a win against the Trojans, look for them to go undefeated in Big Ten play and make their third consecutive trip to the BCS National Championship Game.
The Buckeyes also catch a break this season with Purdue, Penn State, and Michigan, all of whom are expected to do well this season, making the trip to the Horse Shoe.
Incoming freshmen that will have an important impact for the Buckeyes this coming season include QB Terrelle Pryor—although he may not get as many snaps as he would like—OL Mike Adams, OL Mike Brewster, WR DeVier Posey, and LB Etienne Sabino.
Projected Record: 12-1 (two games over assigned total)
5. Auburn
Over/Under Odds: 9 wins
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