College football is right around the corner. My juices are already flowing!
Most everyone should start fall practices by the beginning of next week, and most of the schools in the Deep South have already begun their fall camps. The Big Ten and Big East wrapped up their media days this week so we are about to be in full football mode!
Today we will begin our countdown from #25 to #1 the top college football teams in America. This ranking is just like my good friend Phil Steele’s. This is how I think the team will FINISHthe 2010 season NOT how they should be ranked from the beginning. So without further ado:
#25 Nevada Wolfpack
Offense
The Wolfpack possess one of the nation’s must underrated QBs in Colin Kaepernick. Kaepernick gets it done through the air as well as on the ground as he is just 94 yards away from becoming the 2nd QB in WAC history to have 3,000 rushing as well as passing yards. Kaepernick does have an unproductive receiving corps, however, but they are very experienced.
The strength for Nevada though is its offensive line. The last two years this group has led the way for over 320 ypg on the ground. While they lose 2nd Team WAC Center Kenneth Ackerman as well as 1st Team WAC Tackle Alonzo Durham, “The Union” is still is expected to have the WAC’s top offensive line, and you can expect at least another 300 ypg from this unit.
Defense
Nevada’s defensive strength lies in its front seven. This stout defensive front has only allowed an average of 101 ypg on the ground the last two seasons. Despite the loss of their two DTs from last year, Nevada does add 4 JUCO recruits who should step in right away and establish depth.
The linebacker core should be solid if not better than 2009 as they return 2nd Team WAC star in James-Michael Johnson. The key for Nevada defense is to improve on a pass defense that was a putrid #117 nationally in pass defense in 09.
Overall
The schedule could be a challenge for Nevada as they have 3 tough road games with Fresno State, Hawaii, and Idaho. However, they do get Boise State at home on a Friday night in late November possibly for the WAC title. Chris Ault has done excellent job since he took over in 2004 for the third time and has led Nevada to bowls in 5 of the last 6 years.
The key for Nevada in 2010 is to get off to a fast start. In 2009 Nevada started off 0-3 before rallying to win 7 out of their last 8 games. The key game for Nevada early is home slate against Colorado State. Nevada should handle the Rams since they are projected to finish near the bottom of the Mountain West. However, Nevada must not get caught looking head to a GIGANTIC home matchup with Pac 10 power California upcoming the following Friday.
If Nevada keeps their focus they should be a good shape until they travel to Fresno State on November 13. A win there and the Wolfpack will be primed for a showdown with Boise St. for the WAC title.
Stay tuned for tomorrow as #24 will be released!!!
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Release Date: August 17, 2010 @ 9:00 A.M.
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