College Football 2011: 50 Teams That Will Have More Wins Than They Did in 2010

Progress.

That's what we are looking for in the game of college football.

A steady climb, year by year, to the top of the BCS food chain.

This list is a compilation of those teams that will take a step in the right direction in 2011.

They may only win one more game, but it will be better than the two total they won last season.

Some have the talent and personnel to head up that chain toward the BCS, while still others are hoping to reach .500.

Whatever might be the case, each one of these 50 teams is guaranteed to win more games than they did in 2010.

50. UNLV Runnin Rebels

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LAS VEGAS - NOVEMBER 18: Head coach Bobby Hauck of the UNLV Rebels celebrates on the sideline after his team scored a touchdown against the Air Force Falcons at Sam Boyd Stadium November 18, 2010 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Air Force won 35-20. (Photo by Etha

2010 Record: 2-11

Now that Bobby Hauck is starting to get some of his guys in the lineup and implement his system, it will be interesting to see if he can turn the Rebels around.

Going into 2011, the Rebels will have some new faces, but the personnel should better match Hauck's schemes.

With Southern Utah and New Mexico being as close to a sure "W" as you can get in football, the Rebels will only have to steal one more to better their 2010 win total.

Predicted 2011 Record: 3-9

49. Kansas State Wildcats

2010 Record: 7-6

This might be a stretch, but the Wildcats have the recruits and transfers to make a big splash in 2011...if they can find a quarterback.

The run game should be fine in the capable hands of Tennessee transfer Bryce Brown, and defensively, the 'Cats stocked up on big, athletic guys to help with their issues stopping the run.

Throw in a random upset, and you have the recipe for a better team than last season.

Predicted 2011 Record: 8-4

48. Memphis Tigers

2010 Record: 1-11

While head coach Larry Porter has made some adjustments to his team's offense, Memphis should be able to better their 2010 win total due to one thing.

Their schedule.

Arkansas State and Austin Peay are ripe for the pickin', and the Tigers should double their win total from last year.

Any more than that may be asking a bit too much.

Predicted 2011 Record: 2-10

47. San Jose State Spartans

2010 Record: 1-12

Sure, the Spartans lose quarterback Jordan La Secla, but the offensive line is uber-experienced and wide receiver will be a strength for whoever ends up passing the ball.

All 11 starters return to a defense that often resembled Swiss cheese in 2010, but a year of experience should lead to at least one more win for SJSU.

Predicted 2011 Record: 3-9

46. Eastern Michigan Eagles

2010 Record: 2-10

The Eagles are one of the worst teams in the country.

Head coach Ron English seems to have them headed up, and this year will be the season to see if his philosophy is working.

Quarterback Alex Gillettt will be the catalyst for any sucess the Eagles enjoy next season, and the improvement of his passing game will nicely complement his rushing threat.

With Howard and Alabama State to start off the season, the Eagles should start 2-0—now to find that elusive third win.

Predicted 2011 Record: 4-8

45. Bowling Green Falcons

2010 Record: 2-10

First-team All-MAC pick Kamar Jorden will present the most likely target for quarterback Matt Schilz.

While the Falcons are still a young group, the talent is definitely in place to see a jump in that two-win total from '10.

Predicted 2011 Record: 5-7

44. Florida Atlantic Owls

2010 Record: 4-8

Realistically, FAU is going to be just as bad as last season.

Jeff Van Camp (pictured above) is departed, leaving the door open for another QB to take the brutal punishment at that position.

Their opening game in a new stadium is scheduled to take place this season, and with a guy named Yourhighness Morgan starting, they had to be mentioned.

But in reality, things can only go down from here.

Predicted 2011 Record: 2-10

43. Tulane Green Wave

2010 Record: 4-8

The Green Wave are not exactly bowl game material, even in 2011.

However, with Army, UAB, Southeastern Louisiana, Duke, Rice, Memphis and UTEP on the schedule, it shouldn't be too difficult to win five games.

Their schedule looks like a who's who of awful in college football.

Predicted 2011 Record: 5-7

42. Kansas Jayhawks

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LAWRENCE, KS - NOVEMBER 20: Quarterback Quinn Mecham #8 of the Kansas Jayhawks passes as Cooper Baskett #80 chases during the game on November 20, 2010 at Memorial Stadium in Lawrence, Kansas. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

2010 Record: 3-9

The Jayhawks may be dominant on the hardwood, but not so much on the gridiron.

Quarterback is not settled as yet, but Quinn Mecham is a likely choice and has the tools to lead KU to a few wins.

They won't be challenging for the conference crown next season, but they should see improvement over last season's debacle.

Predicted 2011 Record: 4-8

41. Hawaii Warriors

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HONOLULU - SEPTEMBER 2: Quarterback Bryant Moniz #17 of the University of Hawaii Warriors makes a pass against the University of Southern California Trojans during first half action at Aloha Stadium September 2, 2010 in Honolulu, Hawaii. (Photo by Kent N

2010 Record: 10-4

Even losing their star receivers and running back, the Warriors have much to look forward to in 2011.

After throwing for over 5,000 yards in 2010, Bryant Moniz is back to lead the offense.

The key for Hawaii will be the O-line.

If they can get some serviceable replacements up front, Moniz will break that mark again.

Predicted 2011 Record: 11-2

40. Cal Golden Bears

2010 Record: 5-7

Feel that?

It's the heat from Jeff Tedford's seat.

This season, the Bears defense will have to carry the load if they are going to win a signinficant number of games.

It appears to be up to the task.

Offensively, Shane Vereen and Kevin Riley are gone, and with them significant experience, but the talent is there to replace them.

Predicted 2011 Record: 7-5

39. East Carolina Pirates

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BLACKSBURG, VA - SEPTEMBER 18: Quarterback Dominique Davis #4 of the East Carolina Pirates runs with the ball against the Virginia Tech Hokies at Lane Stadium on September 18, 2010 in Blacksburg, Virginia. (Photo by Geoff Burke/Getty Images)

2010 Record: 6-7

The Pirates' success hinges on the legs and arm of quarterback Dominique Davis.

Davis will have to help the offense to mind-blowing numbers to top last year's win total, as the defense looks little improved from the worst squad in the country last season.

Predicted 2011 Record: 7-5

38. Minnesota Golden Gophers

2010 Record: 3-9

The Gophers have had enough of all this rigamarole, and finally hired a coach who they believe can turn the program around.

It won't be easy, but MarQueis Gray at quarterback will sure be fun to watch.

The Gophers defense was the worst in the Big Ten last season, and close to the worst in the country, so it couldn't possibly stay that awful.

If the pressure Kill sends at the quarterback is effective, the defense will have a shot. If not, the sorry excuse for a secondary will fold like a house of cards.

Predicted 2011 Record: 4-8

37. Vanderbilt Commodores

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LEXINGTON, KY - NOVEMBER 13: Larry Smith #10 of the Vanderbilt Commodores runs with the ball during the game against the Kentucky Wildcats at Commonwealth Stadium on November 13, 2010 in Lexington, Kentucky. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

2010 Record: 2-10

The 'Dores are the doormat of the SEC on an annual basis.

Larry Smith has been up and down in his time at Vandy and will be pushed for the starting QB job.

Whoever starts will have an experienced O-line to work behind, as all five starters are returning.

Will Vandy make the SEC championship game?

No.

Will they win more than two games?

Yes.

Predicted 2011 Record: 4-8

36. Arizona Wildcats

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EUGENE, OR - NOVEMBER 26: Quarterback Nick Foles #8 of the Arizona Wildcats passes the ball in the fourth quarter of the game against the Oregon Ducks at Autzen Stadium on November 26, 2010 in Eugene, Oregon. The Ducks won the game 48-29.(Photo by Steve D

2010 Record: 7-6

The Wildcats barely managed to finish above .500 after receiving some hype early last season.

There is not as much hype this year, but still reason to believe they can and will improve.

Nick Foles and Juron Criner should put up some big numbers, however, the offensive line has been decimated, and the Wildcats have to find replacements for all five of last season's starters.

Expect the Wildcats to win some shootouts, especially if the line develops any sort of cohesiveness as a unit.

Predicted 2011 Record: 8-4

35. Rice Owls

2010 Record: 4-8

The Owls were abominable against the pass last season, but a more aggressive approach should help improve that facet of the defense.

Offensively, the Owls have all kinds of firepower, with Michigan transfer Sam McGuffie handling most of the rushing duties.

The only really bad thing to say about the Owls is that script looks ridiculous on a football jersey.

Predicted 2011 Record: 5-7

34. Washington State Cougars

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PALO ALTO, CA - OCTOBER 23: Head coach Paul Wulff of the Washington State Cougars walks out of the tunnel with John Fullington #77 and Jeffrey Solomon #12 for their game against the Stanford Cardinal at Stanford Stadium on October 23, 2010 in Palo Alto,

2010 Record: 2-10

The Cougars didn't give their fans much to be pleased with last season.

However, the abundance of talent lurking along both sides of the ball leads one to believe they will win more than a pair of games in 2011.

Jeff Tuel is a solid QB, and he has the leading freshman wide receiver, Marquess Wilson, to catch the ball.

Alex Hoffman-Ellis, C.J. Mizell and Sekope Kaufusi are as active a group of linebackers as you will find anywhere in the country.

While they won't challenge for the conference title anytime soon, there will be noticeable improvement.

Predicted 2011 Record: 4-8

33. Tennessee Volunteers

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COLUMBIA, SC - OCTOBER 30: Tyler Bray #8 of the Tennessee Volunteers against the South Carolina Gamecocks during their game at Williams-Brice Stadium on October 30, 2010 in Columbia, South Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)

2010 Record: 6-7

The good news?

Tyler Bray and the offense enter the season ready to do work.

The bad?

The defense is about as unsettled as it can be.

The Vols should make a bowl game this year—if they can avoid a huge mental collapse—but won't do much more than that.

Predicted 2011 Record: 7-5

32. UCLA Bruins

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PASADENA, CA - DECEMBER 04: Quarterback Richard Brehaut #12 of the UCLA Bruins celebrates Johnathan Franklin's (not pictured) touchdown in the first half against the USC Trojans at the Rose Bowl on December 4, 2010 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Jef

2010 Record: 4-8

Yeah, last season was not fun.

The Bruins struggled mightily on offense, which seems to happen when you don't have a quarterback who can throw more than 10 yards.

While the offensive personnel has not changed a whole lot, the battle between Richard Brehaut, Kevin Prince and Brett Hundley should be a beacon of hope for UCLA fans.

The Bruins seem to have a little more motivation after sleep-walking through games in 2010.

Predicted 2011 Record: 6-6

31. Troy Trojans

2010 Record: 8-5

The Trojans have a deep, experienced defense.

Unfortunately that defense was as porous as a sieve last season.

If they improve, even slightly, the Trojans have the offensive firepower to take advantage.

Corey Robinson should be the starter, and he has Shawn Southward, who has led the Trojans in rushing each of the past two years.

Predicted 2011 Record: 9-3

30. Northern Illinois Huskies

2010 Record: 11-3

This one is a little different from the rest on the list in that a conference championship prediction is included.

The Huskies return nine starters to an offense that should be extremely explosive, and new coach Dave Doeren has proven to be effective as a defensive coordinator.

While there are some questions on defense, Doeren has proven more than capable of developing the talent the Huskies have.

NIU should be able to navigate the shedule with their only hiccup against Doeren's old squad, Wisconsin, and win the conference championship.

Predicted 2011 Record: 12-1

29. Toledo Rockets

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CLEVELAND - SEPTEMBER 19: Nathan Williams #43 of the Ohio State Buckeyes rushes quarterback Aaron Opelt #11 of the Toledo Rockets at Cleveland Browns Stadium on September 19, 2009 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Ohio State Buckeyes shutout the Toledo Rockets 38-0

2010 Record: 8-5

Toledo is loaded with talent on both sides of the ball and will challenge for the MAC title.

Expect plenty of passes in the direction of Eric Page and for Adonis Thomas to hit the 1,000-yard mark for the second consecutive season.

Predicted 2011 Record: 9-3

28. Purdue Boilermakers

2010 Record: 4-8

The Boilermakers seemed to suffer more injuries in 2010 than most teams suffer in an entire decade.

The offensive line will all be returning, which will give whoever plays QB time to throw that no one had last season.

Ralph Bolden and Justin Siller are primed to break out, but it will be interesting to see how those next few steps work out.

Cornerback Ricardo Allen returned two interceptions for scores last season as a freshman.

While they are far from the conference elite, they could play spoiler to a few of the favorites.

Predicted 2011 Record: 6-6

27. North Carolina Tar Heels

2010 record: 8-5

It begins and ends defensively for the Heels in 2011.

Quarterback T.J. Yates is gone, but Brynn Renner is gong to be a better QB in time than Yates was.

He has the tools and targets to be succesful in '11, but only with the help of a solid defense.

Quinton Coples and Donte Paige-Moss make a formidable duo rushing on the edges, and Tydreke Powell is a monster in the middle of the D-line.

This team will grow as the season moves along and should enjoy a measure of success.

Predicted 2011 Record: 9-3

26. Cincinnati Bearcats

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CINCINNATI, OH - DECEMBER 04: Isaiah Pead #23 of the Cincinnati Bearcats runs with the ball during the Big East Conference game against the Pittsburgh Panthers at Nippert Stadium on December 4, 2010 in Cincinnati, Ohio. Pittsburgh won 28-10. (Photo by

2010 Record: 4-8

More than any team in the Big East, the Bearcats should benefit from the return of experienced starters and may reach a bowl game.

Isaiah Pead and Zach Collaros will operate behind an offensive line that only loses one starter, and the defense, while extremely weak at times last season, will benefit from another year in the system.

While they probably won't scare WVU and Pitt at the top of the conference standings, a bowl appearance is not too much to expect from this squad.

Predicted 2011 Record: 6-6

25. Syracuse Orange

2010 Record: 8-5

The Orange defense carried the 2010 unit through several games.

With seven starters gone from a stingy defensive squad, the Orange will have to rely on quarterback Ryan Nassib and an experienced O-line to get the job done.

This year, the defense will be young and inexperienced, but the veteran offense will carry the team.

Predicted 2011 Record: 9-3

24. Southern Miss Golden Eagles

2010 Record: 8-5

The Golden Eagles return threee offensive linemen to a group that helped the run game average 220 yards per contest in 2010.

Austin Davis is talented, accurate and consistent from the quarterback position.

A new defensive scheme may help to shore up an awful defense, and if it does, the Golden Eagles will challenge for the division crown.

Predicted 2011 Record: 10-2

23. Miami Hurricanes

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MIAMI - NOVEMBER 20: Lamar Miller #6 of the Miami Hurricanes runs for a touchdown during a game against the Virginia Tech Hokies at Sun Life Stadium on November 20, 2010 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

2010 Record: 7-6

While it's hard to buy the "we're back" chatter coming from fans of the "U," it's easy to see why they feel that way.

The 'Canes boast an incredible amount of athletic talent on both sides of the ball.

Should Jacory Harris or Stephen Morris suddenly develop some accuracy and consistency at quarterback, the Hurricanes will be a force to be reckoned with.

Until then, they travel along in mediocrity.

Predicted 2011 Record: 9-3

22. Arizona State Sun Devils

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TEMPE, AZ - NOVEMBER 26: Head coach Dennis Erickson of the Arizona State Sun Devils talks with quarterback Brock Osweiler #17 during the college football game against the UCLA Bruins at Sun Devil Stadium on November 26, 2010 in Tempe, Arizona. (Photo by

2010 Record: 6-6

The Sun Devils are going to make a run at the BCS next season.

Brock Osweiler is taking over the reins at quarterback and has surprising mobility for a man of his height.

The Devils also have an incredibly talented defense, led by all-everything linebacker Vontaze Burfict.

If this speedy squad can learn some discipline, they will challenge Oregon for Pac-12 supremacy.

Predicted 2011 Record: 10-2

21. Miami (OH) Redhawks

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GAINESVILLE, FL - SEPTEMBER 04: Quarterback Zac Dysert #4 of the Miami University RedHawks attempts a pass against the Florida Gators at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on September 4, 2010 in Gainesville, Florida. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)

2010 Record: 10-4

First year coach Don Treadwell has much to be happy about with his new offense.

Zac Dysert and Austin Boucher will be battling until late in the summer to earn the starting quarterback position.

Both guys are capable of leading the offense; Boucher is a little more accurate, but Dysert adds the threat of a run from the QB position.

Should be an interesting battle.

Whoever wins has an extremely experienced O-line in place with four returning starters.

Predicted 2011 Record: 11-1

20. Georgia Bulldogs

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ATHENS, GA - NOVEMBER 27: Justin Houston #42 of the Georgia Bulldogs celebrates after returning a fumble for a touchdown against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at Sanford Stadium on November 27, 2010 in Athens, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Ima

2010 Record: 6-7

While the Bulldogs will have little difficulty winning more than six games, it will be more due to scheduling breaks than an incredible improvement.

They could very well start 0-2 with tough games against Boise State and South Carolina to start the season.

Even if they falter out of the gate, they do not have to face any of the SEC West frontrunners.

LSU, Alabama and Arkansas are nowhere on the schedule.

Predicted 2011 Record: 9-3

19. Michigan Wolverines

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ANN ARBOR, MI - APRIL 16: Head football coach Brady Hoke stands with his team prior to the start of the annual Spring Game at Michigan Stadium on April 16, 2011 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images)

2010 Record: 7-6

Brady Hoke has his work cut out for him.

The Wolverines were explosive offensively at times in 2010, but inconsistent.

The new scheme should immediately help the defense in 2011, and if Denard Robinson can stay healthy, eight wins is an easily attainable plateau.

Predicted 2011 Record: 8-4

18. SMU Mustangs

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DALLAS - SEPTEMBER 24: Quarterback Kyle Padron #2 of the SMU Mustangs looks to pass against the TCU Horned Frogs at Gerald J. Ford Stadium on September 24, 2010 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

2010 Record: 7-7

The Mustangs are on the verge of finally recovering from the NCAA "death penalty."

June Jones has them on the verge of an offensive explosion, and with talent like quarterback Kyle Padron and running back Zach Line, the 'Stangs are going to be a formidable force for a few seasons.

SMU has experience across, the board, returning 18 starters from last season's squad, and the defensive line is formidable.

Should be an interesting battle for conference supremacy with Houston and Tulsa.

Predicted 2011 Record: 9-3

17. Clemson Tigers

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CHARLOTTE, NC - DECEMBER 31: Tajh Boyd #10 of the Clemson Tigers drops back to pass against the USF Bulls during their game at Bank of America Stadium on December 31, 2010 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)

2010 Record: 6-7

Dabo Swinney's seat has to be feeling a little warm heading into this season.

The Tigers routinely seem to land ridiculously good recruiting classes, and then never live up to their billing.

Next season, with Tajh Boyd at the helm of the offense, the Tigers will avenge that heart-breaking loss to Auburn.

Sorry, Tiger fans, you still won't beat the Gamecocks.

Predicted 2011 Record: 7-5

16. Pitt Panthers

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PITTSBURGH - SEPTEMBER 23: Tino Sunseri #12 of the Pittsburgh Panthers drops back to pass in front of teammate Dion Lewis #28 during the game against the Miami Hurricanes on September 23, 2010 at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Jared

2010 Record: 8-5

While the Panthers have been more conservative on offense, showing only flashes of willingness to open it up a little bit, the arrival of new coach Todd Graham has changed all that.

Pitt is going to have a wide-open style which is conducive to putting up big points, fast.

The new focus of the defense will not be on stopping the offense, but on forcing turnovers with a type of 3-4 scheme.

Should be interesting to see how all this plays out in the Big East.

Predicted 2011 Record: 9-3

15. Baylor Bears

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WACO, TX - OCTOBER 04: Quarterback Robert Griffin #10 of the Baylor Bears drops back to pass against the Oklahoma Sooners at Floyd Casey Stadium on October 4, 2008 in Waco, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

2010 Record: 7-6

The Bears seem to be a step or two behind the elite teams of the Big 12, but they have some great athletes this season.

Quarterback Robert Griffin is a rushing threat as well, and the Bears have five returning receivers who caught 40 or more passes in 2010.

Predicted 2011 Record: 8-4

14. Florida State Seminoles

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JACKSONVILLE, FL - JANUARY 01: Quarterback E.J. Manuel #3 of the Florida State Seminoles avoids a tackle by defensive back Sidney Glover #11 of the West Virginia Mountaineers on his way to a touchdown run during the Konica Minolta Gator Bowl on January 1

2010 Record: 10-4

E.J. Manuel has the talent and athletic prowess to be a game-changer.

If he even comes close to his potential, the Seminoles are going to be tough on offense, with their leading receivers and running backs all returning.

Jimbo Fisher has a good thing going on in Tallahassee.

Predicted 2011 Record: 11-1

13. Houston Cougars

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PASADENA, CA - SEPTEMBER 18: Quarterback Case Keenum #7 of the Houston Cougars at the game against the UCLA Bruins in the second quarter at the Rose Bowl on September 18, 2010 in Pasadena, California. UCLA won 31-13. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images

2010 Record: 5-7

The Cougars have one big thing going for them.

Quarterback Case Keenum should be back after an injury against UCLA early in 2010 sidelined him for the rest of the year.

Keenum will need some help, as the offensive line loses three starter, but special teams should be explosive, and the Cougars will make it back to a bowl game.

Predicted 2011 Record: 9-3

12. West Virginia Mountaineers

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BATON ROUGE, LA - SEPTEMBER 25: Quarterback Geno Smith #12 of the West Virginia Mountaineers looks to throw a pass against the Louisiana State University Tigers at Tiger Stadium on September 25, 2010 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/G

2010 Record: 9-4

The Mountaineers may just single-handedly earn back some of the respect the Big East has lost.

With offensive wizard Dana Holgorsen now leading the charge, the Mountaineers are going to have one of the most explosive offenses in the game.

Geno Smith is a dark horse Heisman candidate and should flourish in Holgorsen's scheme.

Predicted 2011 Record: 10-2

11. Maryland Terrrapins

2010 Record: 9-4

Hey, the ACC looks to be pretty wide open this season, and the Terps are as good a candidate as any to compete for the crown.

Randy Edsall will find that he has a plethora of talent to work with, especially with Demetrius Hartsfield and Kenny Tate on the defensive side.

Quarterback Danny O'Brien will get to operate behind four linemen returning from last year's squad, and running backs Davin Meggett and D.J. Adams are a solid backfield duo.

Predicted 2011 Record: 10-2

10. BYU Cougars

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FORT COLLINS, CO - NOVEMBER 01: Head coach Bronco Mendenhall of the Brigham Young Cougars prepares to lead his team onto the field to face the Colorado State Rams at Sonny Lubick Field at Hughes Stadium on November 1, 2008 in Fort Collins, Colorado. BYU

2010 Record: 7-6

Why is everyone overlooking the Cougars?

BYU returns most of their production to an offense that hung 52 points on UTEP in their bowl game.

Three starters are returning to the O-line, and after coach Bronco Mendenhall took over the defense last season there was obvious improvement.

In their first season as an independent, the Cougars will get double digit wins.

Predicted 2011 Record: 10-2

9. Arkansas Razorbacks

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NEW ORLEANS, LA - JANUARY 04: Head coach Bobby Petrino of the Arkansas Razorbacks reacts in the first half against the Ohio State Buckeyes during the Allstate Sugar Bowl at the Louisiana Superdome on January 4, 2011 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by

2010 Record: 10-3

The Razorbacks had a great season last year, but this year could be even better.

While they face tough road trips to Alabama and LSU, the Hogs have the firepower and defense to knock of the Tigers, particularly if Jordan Jefferson should show up as Mr. Inconsistent.

SEC leading rusher Knile Davis leads a great group of running backs, and Tyler Wilson is set to take over where Ryan Mallett left off.

Should be an interesting year in the SEC West.

Predicted 2011 Record: 11-1

8. San Diego State Aztecs

Stephen Dunn/Getty Images

SAN DIEGO - NOVEMBER 20: Running back Ronnie Hillman #13 of the San Deigo State Aztecs carries the ball on a five yard touchdown run in the second quarter against the Utah Utes at Qualcomm Stadium on November 20, 2010 in San Diego, California. (Photo by

2010 Record: 9-4

The Aztecs are for real.

While most pundits have Boise State and TCU pegged to lead the re-aligned MWC, don't overlook these guys.

They get both TCU and BSU at home, and have huge stars on both sides of the ball.

Ronnie Hillman and Ryan Lindley could be the most productive duo in the conference.

Ok, Boise State fans, start the hate now.

Predicted 2011 Record: 10-2

7. Northwestern Wildcats

Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

EVANSTON, IL - OCTOBER 23: Dan Persa #7 of the Northwestern Wildcats throws a pass against the Michigan State Spartans at Ryan Field on October 23, 2010 in Evanston, Illinois. Michigan State defeated Northwestern 35-27. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Ima

2010 Record: 7-6

Dan Persa may well be the most accurate quarterback in the college game.

His injury last season ended what may have been a record-setting year for the versatile QB, and he is back for more in 2011.

Persa also gets main target, receiver Jeremy Ebert, back, along with tight end Drake Dunsmore.

The Wildcats don't have to face Wisconsin or Ohio State next season, and will take advantage with their best season in a long time.

Predicted 2011 Record: 9-3

6. Texas Longhorns

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LINCOLN, NE - OCTOBER 16: Quarterback Garrett Gilbert #7 of the Texas Longhorns runs toward his teammates ofter the final of their game against the Nebraska Cornhuskers at Memorial Stadium on October 16, 2010 in Lincoln, Nebraska. Texas Defeated Nebraska

2010 Record: 5-7

Texas' 2010 season can be compared to any number of horror movies.

Be that as it may, the Longhorns won't stay down for long.

Garrett Gilbert will eventually show some improvement, and with sweeping changes to the coaching staff, that squad will improve as well.

Predicted 2011 Record: 8-4

5. Air Force Falcons

2010 Record: 9-4

The MWC is loaded this season.

Boise State and TCU do not have the corner on the market of good football teams in the conference.

Air Force might have something to say about that.

The Falcons have all the tools to implement a dangerous passing game along with their already potent rushing attack.

Tim Jefferson runs the offense to perfection and receiver Zach Kauth is an athletic guy with leaping ability.

If Air Force is going to take that next step, it will be this season.

Predicted 2011 Record: 10-2

4. Penn State Nittany Lions

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COLUMBUS, OH - NOVEMBER 13: Head Coach Joe Paterno watches his team play the Ohio State Buckeyes at Ohio Stadium on November 13, 2010 in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images)

2010 Record: 7-6

JoePa may be old, but he can still coach.

The Lions are going to be a little better this year without Evan Royster when Silas Redd takes over the rushing duties.

If Matt McGloin or Rob Bolden can demonstrate a modicum of consistency, PSU could make a run at the Big Ten title.

Predicted 2011 Record: 9-3

3. Alabama Crimson Tide

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TUSCALOOSA, AL - OCTOBER 02: Mark Barron #4 of the Alabama Crimson Tide against the Florida Gators at Bryant-Denny Stadium on October 2, 2010 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

2010 Record: 10-3

Expectations are sky high for this team.

Even outside the top skill position players on the squad, the Tide still have scads of talent.

Mark Barron is a great playmaker out of the defensive secondary, and the D-line should be very stout against the run.

The best news, however, is that the Tide get both LSU and Arkansas in Tuscaloosa.

Predicted 2011 Record: 11-1

2. Virginia Tech Hokies

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MIAMI - NOVEMBER 20: David Wilson #4 of the Virginia Tech Hokies runs for a first down during a game against the Miami Hurricanes at Sun Life Stadium on November 20, 2010 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

2010 Record: 11-3

The Hokies have been right on the edge of another undefeated season, and this year they may finally break through.

Logan Thomas is no Tyrod Taylor, but he will be an effective replacement, and David Wilson will soon make Va. Tech fans forget those other running backs from last season.

The defense and special teams both look solid, as they always have under Frank Beamer, and the Hokies get Clemson, Miami and North Carolina all at Lane Stadium.

The toughest game on their schedule other than those home games might be a trip to East Carolina.

Predicted 2011 Record: 12-0

1. Notre Dame Fighting Irish

Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

SOUTH BEND, IN - SEPTEMBER 04: Dayne Crist #10 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish looks for a receiver against the Purdue Boilermakers at Notre Dame Stadium on September 4, 2010 in South Bend, Indiana. Notre Dame defeated Purdue 23-12. (Photo by Jonathan Da

2010 Record: 8-5

Sick of hearing about the Irish yet?

Get used to it.

It doesn't matter who plays quarterback, Tommy Rees or Dayne Crist, the offense is going to be effective.

Linebacker Manti Te'o leads an improved defense that has the perfect blend of savvy veterans and talented newbies.

Predicted 2011 Record: 11-1