Offense
There may not be a more explosive offensive team in America than the Houston Cougars. Since Kevin Sumlin took over in 2008, Houston has averaged an astronomical 40.6 points per game. Expect this group to be absolutely loaded once again 2010.
Casey Keenum returns to lead an offense that returns its top 3 WRs from last year as well as its two leading rushers. Since taking over the starting QB duties in 2007, Keenum has completed 68% of his passes, and the last two seasons has thrown for 44 TD passes with only 15 Ints. Each of the Keenum’s returning receivers averaged over 1,000 yds receiving in 2009, and has two returning RBs in Charles Sims and Bryce Beall, who each averaged over 5 yds a carry last year. This unit is scary good!
Defense
While Houston’s offense has been spectacular under Sumlin, its defense on the other hand has kept the Cougars from reaching the status eclisped by the Boise State’s and Utah’s of the world. The Cougars defense does have 6 returning starters in 2010 and is expected to be improved under new defensive coordinator Brian Stewart. However, you can call be skeptical. Last season Houston allowed 5.2 ypc and their pass defense was #84 in the FBS. Until this group improves substantially, Houston will not be considered among the elite of the non-BCS programs.
Overall
Houston is another darkhorse team and some experts are calling for an undefeated season this year. They should win CUSA, but they face two BCS opponents on the road in UCLA and Texas Tech. While both games are winnable, I do not expect Houston to run the table due their issues on defense. Teams like Houston have the offense to knock off a team like Oklahoma State (which they did last season) but lose to the UTEPs and UCFs of the world (who clipped the Cougars last year). Expect a similar season to play out in 2010.
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