Week 1 game breakdowns

Published Sep. 5, 2009 1:02 a.m. ET

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Akron at Penn State

2008 RANKINGS: Zips: offense 40th (6th MAC), pass 46th (7th), run 45th (4th), defense 90th (10th), pass 104th (10th), run 100th (11th)

Nittany Lions: offense 14th (1st Big Ten), pass 37th (3rd), run 17th (2nd), defense 8th (1st), pass 19th (3rd), run 8th (1st)

POLLS: Akron, NR; Penn State (10 AP, 8 coaches)

PREDICTION: Penn State 38, Akron 10

KEYS TO THE GAME: Penn State will be looking for consistency and care of the football in the opener. If the Nittany Lions can establish Evan Royster and the running game early, it will be hard for the Zips to corral the various weapons. Defensively, Penn State will look to make Chris Jacquemain get rid of the ball before he wants to and make sure Akron's running game doesn't get going.

The Zips are hoping ball control can work in their favor. The goal would be to force Penn State's defense to guard against the run with eight defenders in the box, thus opening up Akron's talented receivers for single coverage.

While playing in Happy Valley will no doubt be an experience to cherish for many on the roster, Akron must not let the large crowd be a dictating factor. The best way to do that is to score early — and have the defense force a key turnover to help build momentum.

FAST FACTS: Zips — Akron returns 15 starters from a 5-7 team in 2008. ... The Zips were 5-4 at one point but lost three straight to end the year. The Zips lost four games by a total of 16 points. ... Coach J.D. Brookhart's first game at Akron was a loss to Penn State in the 2004 opener. ... Nittany Lions — Coach Joe Paterno begins his 60th season on the Penn State coaching staff. ... He leads the FBS in career wins with 383. ... PSU is 39-1 all-time against the Mid-American Conference. ... Penn State has a 40-11 record since the start of the 2005 season. ... Penn State has won 27 of its last 29 games at Beaver Stadium. ... The Nittany Lions have won their last seven home openers and 16 of their last 18.

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Zips

RB Alex Allen — A solid performance gives the offense more flexibility and forces quarterback Chris Jacquemain to not force passes into tight coverage.

QB Chris Jacquemain — Must avoid interceptions for the Zips to have a shot for an upset at Penn State and, down the road, a possible shot at a division title.

DE Almondo Sewell — Ready for a big season after earning all-conference honors last year.

Nittany Lions

LB Sean Lee — The fifth-year senior will take the field for the first time since the 2007 Alamo Bowl after coming back from a serious knee injury. Lee can't wait to hit someone and should get several chances to do so from the strong side.

SS Nick Sukay — The likely starter has great athleticism and a good frame but needs to show he can be a solid run-stuffer and learn to anticipate passing plays before they develop.

WR Derek Moye — The tall, fast junior provides some big-play potential on the outside and gives Daryll Clark a nice downfield target. Moye stretching the field vertically will open things up underneath for the rest of the offense.

PK Collin Wagner — The first-year starter has a strong leg and solid accuracy but has yet to attempt anything resembling a pressure kick. He needs a good first game to set a confident tone for the season.

INJURY WATCH:

Zips

RB Alex Allen received limited duty in fall camp due to a hip injury.

RB Dale Martin, a transfer from Louisville, has also seen limited play in practices because an Achilles injury.

Nittany Lions

LB Michael Mauti is out for the season after tearing the ACL in his right knee during preseason practice.

CB A.J. Wallace is expected to be held out of at least two games as punishment for academic issues.

Northern Iowa at Iowa

KICKOFF: Saturday, noon ET

SERIES: Iowa leads 13-1, including 45-21 in 2005

2008 RANKINGS: Hawkeyes: offense 53rd (5th Big Ten), pass 90th (8th), run 26th (4th), defense 12th (2nd), pass 5th (1st), run 9th (2nd)

POLLS: Iowa (22 AP, 21 coaches)

PREDICTION: Iowa 42, Northern Iowa 13

KEYS TO THE GAME: Northern Iowa advanced to the FCS semifinal championship game and won a share of the Missouri Valley Conference title last season, the first time in more than a decade the Panthers won consecutive league titles. Senior QB Pat Grace returns after totaling nearly 2,700 yards passing and rushing and 25 touchdowns. Iowa will be without starting tailback Jewel Hampton and the Panthers return linebackers Josh Mahoney and Jamar Thompson, who combined for 249 tackles last year. But it's difficult seeing how the Panthers can compete with Iowa.

FAST FACTS: Panthers — UNI is ranked fourth in the FCS preseason poll. ... Northern Iowa won the initial game in the series, 11-5, in 1898 and hasn't since defeated Iowa. ... Coach Mark Farley is in his ninth season at Cedar Falls. ... UNI is one of four FCS school to have recorded 24 or more wins since 2007. The Panthers' senior class enters this year with a mark of 31-8 overall. ... Hawkeyes — Iowa has won eight straight home games and 38 of its last 46, including 46-3 vs. Maine last season. Three months later, Maine lost to Northern Iowa (40-15). ... Iowa is 87-31-2 (.733) in season-opening games, including posting an 8-2 mark under Coach Kirk Ferentz. Iowa has averaged 40.9 points and a winning margin of 35.4 in its last eight season-opening victories. ... Kirk Ferentz is in his 14th year as a college head coach and his 11th year at Iowa. His career record is 82-74 and he is 70-53 at Iowa. He is 27-16 in non-conference games at Iowa. Ferentz is 1-0 vs. Northern Iowa.

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Panthers

DE James Ruffin — Recorded 10 sacks and 18 total tackles for loss last season and was named to the Ted Hendricks preseason watchlist. Ruffin was named to the Sports Network FCS All-America team.

RB Derrick Law — He has 12 career touchdowns, including nine last season.

Hawkeyes

RB Paki O'Meara — One of the four tailbacks coach Kirk Ferentz plans to rotate against UNI, O'Meara has responded since Jewel Hampton's knee injury.

"Paki has played well for a couple years now," Ferentz said at a press conference Tuesday. "We had our last big scrimmage a week ago Friday night and I thought that was his best performance as a Hawkeye, so we were happy to see that. Adam is a guy that caught our eye last year at this time during camp and he very quietly has emerged and done a nice job. At this point, that's our one-two tandem and then we'll see what happens after that. I don't know if it's going to be a two-man, three-man, four-man, but we'll do whatever it takes to be effective out there. I am comfortable. I think the guys have practiced well and I'm optimistic they'll do some good things as we move forward."

QB Ricky Stanzi — Threw for 1,956 yards and 14 touchdowns last year after winning the starting job early in the season. Stanzi enters this season as the clear leader of the offense.

WR Trey Stross — Finally healthy after two years worth of hamstring injuries, Stross is ready to capitalize on his immense potential. He's running out of time. Now a senior, Stross has 42 career catches for 570 yards and six touchdowns. He could duplicate that this season if he stays healthy.

LB Pat Angerer — Led defense with 107 tackles last season. Should join with Jeremiha Hunter to give Iowa powerful linebacker duo.

INJURY WATCH:

Panthers

None.

Hawkeyes

RB Jewel Hampton (knee) was ruled out for the season. He will redshirt.

DE Christian Ballard is fitting in nicely at his new position after moving over from tackle. Ballard continues to draw praise from Kirk Ferentz for his smooth transition.

Jacksonville State at Georgia Tech

KICKOFF: Saturday, 1 p.m. ET

SERIES: Georgia Tech leads 1-0; 41-14 last season.

2008 RANKINGS: Yellow Jackets: offense 50th (1st ACC), pass 116th (12th), run 4th (1st), defense 25th (6th), pass 2nd (1st), run 24th (3rd)

POLLS: Georgia Tech (15, AP and coaches)

PREDICTION: Georgia Tech 41, Jacksonville State 17

KEYS TO THE GAME: This game might have been more intriguing had Ryan Perrilloux, a onetime top recruit at quarterback who played at LSU before transferring in 2008, not been suspended. Without Perrilloux, the numbers could swell for Georgia Tech.

The Jackets' biggest test will be trying not to look ahead to Clemson. Ball security was an issue last year, and fumbles are probably the only way Tech can put itself in danger of losing.

FAST FACTS: Jacksonville State — The Gamecocks are ranked 19th in the FCS and went 8-3 last season. ... QB Ryan Perrilloux, who is suspended for this game, led the Gamecocks in rushing last season at 33.5 yards per game. ... ... Yellow Jackets — Georgia Tech plays three games in 12 days beginning Saturday. They have a five-day turnaround before facing Clemson. ... Georgia Tech has only six scholarship seniors on its roster.

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Gamecocks

P/PK Patrick Tatum — He's pulling double-duty, and JSU can't afford any follies in this department. Coach Jack Crowe said he doesn't believe Tatum would be "bothered by any environment."

WR Greg Smith — A senior receiver and one of the team's two captains for the game — Reggie Wade, a JUCO transfer, is the other, Smith transferred from Georgia Tech, where he was a running back. He shouldn't be ignored — Smith ran for 7.5 yards per carry and two touchdowns in '07.

Yellow Jackets

DE Izaan Cross — The 6-4, 272-pound freshmen has earned a spot in the rotation and will be used to spell Robert Hall at left defensive end.

WR Stephen Hill — The acrobatic 6-4 freshman has made sensational catches in camp, showing the skills that made him a terrific basketball player too. With Hill and Demaryius Thomas on opposite sides, QB Josh Nesbitt now has two intimidating options on the outside.

A-back Anthony Allen — The transfer from Louisville, who had to sit out last year, is a powerful runner who could also be dangerous catching balls out of the backfield. In a crowded backfield, Allen is eager to make an immediate impact.

INJURY WATCH:

Gamecocks

None.

Yellow Jackets

RB Roddy Jones is unlikely to play because of a dislocated wrist. The coaching staff allowed him to return to practice at full contact on Monday, but he'll be a game-time decision and would play only sparingly.

WR Zack Fisher is uncertain for the opener according to coach Paul Johnson.

San Jose State at Southern Cal

KICKOFF: Saturday, 3:30 p.m. ET

SERIES: Southern Cal 3, San Jose State 0 (last meeting, 2001, 21-10 USC).

2008 RANKINGS: Spartans: offense 112th (9th WAC), pass 79th (7th), run 115th (8th), defense 21st (2nd), pass 8th (2nd), run 63rd (4th)

Trojans: offense 11th (2nd Pac-10), pass 22nd (1st), run 22nd (3rd), defense 2nd (1st), pass 1st (1st), run 5th (1st)

POLLS: USC (4 AP and coaches)

PREDICTION: USC 55, San Jose State 6

KEYS TO THE GAME: This game became more intriguing after USC coach Pete Carroll named true freshman Matt Barkley as his starting quarterback. A victory over the Spartans isn't in doubt, but Barkley's performance could very well be the topic of discussion in the college football world in the following week as the fourth-ranked Trojans get ready to play at Ohio State.

For USC, establishing the offensive line and the running game early is vital. That will make life easier for freshman Barkley. In particular, coaches and fans will want to see Barkley avoid the interceptions that seemed to be a problem in fall camp.

Coach Dick Tomey likely will play two quarterbacks early in the season — senior incumbent Kyle Reed and junior challenger Jordan La Secla.

The Spartans hope Colorado transfer Tyler Cope can fix their kicking issues. He was inconsistent in fall camp.

The Spartans lived off their defense for much of last season, starting out 5-2. That defense wore out during the second half of the year — a 1-4 collapse — and suddenly couldn't stop the run. The group still has some of the best defensive players in the WAC in linebacker/end hybrid Justin Cole, defensive end Carl Ihenacho and safety Duke Ihenacho. Ihenacho moved from linebacker to safety, providing a little experience in a depleted secondary.

FAST FACTS: Spartans — The Spartans return 15 starters off a 6-6 team that lost its final 3 games. ... QB Kyle Reed, among three SJSU quarterback starters last fall, is back after completing 64.0 percent of his passes in 2008. ... WR Kevin Jurovich and WR Jalal Beauchman have 142 career receptions and 11 touchdowns between them. ... Six SJSU offensive linemen have started at least 10 games in their careers. ... Seven starters return on a Spartan defense that was in the Top 25 nationally in 6 categories in 2008, including 21st in total defense. Top defenders include the Ihenacho brothers — DE Carl and S Duke, a 2008 All-WAC first teamer — plus DT Adonis Davis and LB Travis Jones (SJSU's 2008 tackle leader). ... San Jose State lost four of its last five games last season, totaling 67 points in that stretch. ... . ... Trojans — QB Matt Barkley, who will become the first USC true freshman to start an opener at quarterback. ... The Trojans went 12-1 and won the Rose Bowl last season and have seven consecutive AP Top 4 finishes, BCS bowl trips, Pac-10 titles and 11-win seasons. USC not only has won its past 11 openers, it also has captured its past 13 non-conference home games, 12 non-conference games, 10 overall games and 9 home games. Troy has also fared extremely well against Western Athletic Conference opponents. This is the 92nd consecutive game USC has been ranked in the AP Top 25, extending its school record. USC head coach Pete Carroll, who began his Trojan coaching career with a win over San Jose State, is the nation's winningest active coach in terms of winning percentage. ... USC is 28-1 all-time against the WAC.

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Spartans

WR Kevin Jurovich — Has 100 career catches in just 14 games. He missed all but two games last season with mono, but he made those two games count — 15 catches, 183 yards and one game-winning TD.

DE Carl Ihenacho — Led the nation in tackles for loss before a thumb injury hampered him during the second half. He still finished eighth with 18.5 tackles for loss. Plus, he had seven sacks.

QB Kyle Reed — The returning starter completed 64 percent of his passes last year — a number that sounds great. The problem: He averaged just 9.6 yards per completion and threw nine touchdown passes in 10 games. He was the only regular starter in the WAC who averaged less than 10 yards per completion.

Trojans

RB Joe McKnight — The speedy junior seems to ready to roll after a season in which he carried 89 times for 659 yards, and caught 21 passes for 193 yards. His performance in camp indicated he's ready for more.

WR Damian Williams — With starting WR Ronald Johnson out, Williams will be even more critical as the go-to guy in USC's offense. He caught 58 passes for 869 yards and nine touchdowns last season.

DE Everson Griffen — The junior has five career starts, but can't afford to be a part-time player anymore. The Trojans are counting on a big pass rush from Griffen, who had 4.5 sacks and six tackles for loss last season.

INJURY WATCH:

Spartans

RB Patrick Perry was granted a sixth year of eligibility by the NCAA.

Backup S Jay Atkins is out for the year with a knee injury.

Trojans

NT Averell Spicer (sprained ankle) is questionable for the opener against San Jose State.

Starting DE Armond Armstead, a sophomore, suffered a broken bone in his foot during fall camp and likely is out until the beginning of October. Redshirt freshman Wes Horton was listed as a co-starter at defensive end with sophomore Malik Jackson for the San Jose State game.

CB Shareece Wright, who redshirted last season because of a neck injury, hadn't been academically cleared a week before the season opener. He also had been suffering from a sore knee. SS Josh Pinkard can play corner, with Will Harris stepping in at safety.

Georgia at Oklahoma State

KICKOFF: Saturday, 3:30 ET

SERIES: Georgia leads 3-0

2008 RANKINGS: Panthers: offense 7th (1st Pac-10), pass 67th (5th), run 2nd (1st), defense 82nd (8th), pass 57th (7th), run 23rd (2nd)

Hawkeyes: offense 18th (1st WAC), pass 13th (2nd), run 54th (4th), defense 20th (1st), pass 2nd (1st), run 22nd (3rd)

POLLS: Georgia (13 AP, coaches); Oklahoma State (9 AP, 11 coaches)

PREDICTION: Oklahoma State 33, Georgia 24

KEYS TO THE GAME: The Bulldogs will need to get stops early and often against Oklahoma State's offense to keep the crowd hushed. But on offense, Georgia can't ask senior starting quarterback Joe Cox to do too much. Look for Cox to manage the game while Georgia runs the ball behind its big, experienced offensive line. That also will help keep Georgia's defense fresh and Oklahoma State's offense off the field.

Oklahoma State was poor rushing the passer last season, but that should change under new coordinator Bill Young, who is adept creating pressure with a variety of stunts and blitzes. This is essential in the opener since Georgia is starting a new quarterback, fifth-year senior Joe Cox. RB Caleb King entered Georgia's preseason camp as the No. 1 tailback, but has been slowed by a hamstring injury. The experience the Cowboys possess at the skill positions should give them an advantage offensively, which they need to exploit.

The good news for that Dogs' defense is that 10 of Georgia's 11 projected starters are juniors and seniors. The bad news was that Georgia's defense was unable to pressure the quarterback last season, too. The Bulldogs went from first in the Southeastern Conference in sacks in 2007 to 10th last season. A big factor was the loss of senior DT Jeff Owens to a knee injury in the first game of last season. If Owens regains his form, Georgia should get to quarterback more frequently this season.

FAST FACTS: Bulldogs — Georgia owns a 34-3 record against teams from outside the Southeastern Conference under Mark Richt. All three losses were in bowl games. ... The 2009 senior class enters their final year with a 30-9 mark. The 2008 Bulldog seniors became the sixth consecutive class to claim 40 or more wins in their career as they finished with a mark of 40-12 with one SEC title and at least a share of two SEC Eastern Division crowns. ... Georgia will play three non-conference games against teams from BCS conferences, becoming the first from the SEC to do that since the 12th game was added in 2006. In the past three years, there were six instances of a BCS-conference school playing three fellow big-league opponents: USC (2006), Duke (2007), Florida State (2007), North Carolina (2006, 2008) and Wake Forest (2006). A win over Oklahoma State would be only the second season-opening victory over a top-10 opponent in school history. The only other time it happened was when unranked Georgia beat No. 5 Alabama 18-17 in Athens in 1965. Overall, the Bulldogs are 1-4-1 vs. top-10 foes in season openers. ... Cowboys — Oklahoma State is 62-40-5 all-time in season openers. The Cowboys are 74-28-5 in home openers, including 13 straight wins, dating back to 1995. That winning streak is the longest in school history. Under Mike Gundy, the Cowboys are 3-1 in season openers with the lone loss coming at Georgia in 2007. The Cowboys are 4-0 in home openers under Gundy. Oklahoma State is 13-3 under Mike Gundy in September. ... The 2009 opener will be OSU's sixth straight regular season game to be televised by ABC. The Cowboys were 2-3 on ABC last season. ... Oklahoma State has won 15 straight non-conference home games (including 9-0 under Mike Gundy), dating back to a 2002 home loss to UCLA. The Cowboys were able to take revenge on the Bruins in 2004 when they opened the season with a 31-20 win over UCLA in the Rose Bowl. ... Oklahoma State is opening a season against a ranked foe for the first time since facing Georgia in 2007, and for just the 10th time in school history. The Cowboys are 2-7 in those games with both wins coming on the road (at No. 12 Arizona State in 1984 and at No. 12 Washington in 1985). ... In those nine previous season openers against ranked foes, Oklahoma State entered the game in the top 25 just once — when the No. 16 Cowboys upset No. 12 Washington in Seattle in '85.

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Cowboys

WR Justin Horton is a redshirt freshman who could totally outmatch smaller defensive backs as a 6-4, 250-pound target with 4.5 speed. Figure on Oklahoma State to insert Horton on passing downs to help the Cowboys stretch the field.

QB Zac Robinson is not only a threat to get on a roll throwing the ball after completing 65 percent of his attempts for 3,064 yards last season, but he is also dangerous on the ground, gaining 562 yards. He accounted for 33 touchdowns.

DE Ugo Chinasa needs to pose more of a threat off the edge after recording just two sacks last season. Another returnee, DE Jeremiah Price, led OSU with three sacks. Pressure needs to be elevated after the Cowboys recorded just 15 sacks overall last season.

Bulldogs

QB Joe Cox — Cox has patiently waited his turn behind Matthew Stafford and will finally get his chance as a fifth-year senior. With just one career start, Cox will get a stiff test to start the season at Oklahoma State. Cox is a leader in the huddle, but does he have the arm to make big throws in a hostile environment?

RB Richard Samuel — Samuel had an excellent fall and could emerge as the running back to replace the departed Knowshon Moreno. A redshirt sophomore, the 6-foot-1, 218 pound Samuel has an excellent combination of power and speed and should benefit from running behind an experienced Georgia offensive line.

WR A.J. Green — Coming off a freshman season in which he had 963 yards and eight touchdowns, much is expected of Green this season. But Green may face more double-teams due to the departure of WR Mohamed Massaquoi.

DT Geno Atkins — Atkins will look to build on a junior season in which he got to the quarterback often. With 32 quarterback hurries last season and eight career sacks, Atkins will be a leader on the Georgia defense this season.

INJURY WATCH:

Cowboys

QB Zac Robinson entered fall camp with a slightly pulled leg muscle. While it didn't cause him much trouble in camp, Robinson's tweaked hamstring will be something to monitor throughout the season.

Bulldogs

S Quintin Banks has missed the past two weeks of practice with a knee injury and is doubtful for the season-opener at Oklahoma State.

TE Bryce Ros has ended his career due to a chronic foot condition. Ross, a redshirt freshman, has suffered from chronic degenerative changes in his right big toe joint. Georgia has asked the NCAA for a medical exemption to allow Ros to remain on scholarship.

Nevada at Notre Dame

KICKOFF: Saturday, 3:30 ET

SERIES: First meeting

2008 RANKINGS: Wolf Pack: offense 5th (1st WAC), pass 47th (4th), run 3rd (1st), defense 91st (6th), pass 85th (6th), run 6th (1st)

Fighting Irish: offense 65th (1st, Independents), pass 34th (1st), run 100th (3rd), defense 39th (1st), pass 22nd (1st), run 45th (3rd)

POLLS: Notre Dame (23 AP and coaches)

PREDICTION: Notre Dame 44, Nevada 27

KEYS TO THE GAME: Notre Dame intends to go crazy on offense. All the pieces are in place for Notre Dame to have a dynamic offense, and Nevada shouldn't offer much resistance. QB Jimmy Clausen needs to establish the big plays to Golden Tate and Michael Floyd, which should loosen up the running game. This should be a win for the Irish, but it would also help if they play well enough to set the tone for what has the potential to be a big season.

This is a dangerous first game for the Irish, who can't afford a lackluster performance as they had in last season's opener against San Diego State. Nevada is expected to be one of the top teams in the WAC and is capable of getting into a shootout with Notre Dame despite lackluster showings against BCS teams to start last season.

Nevada returns three players that have rushed for more than 1,000 yards in a season, including tailbacks Vai Taua and Luke Lippincott. Lippincott, the WAC's leading rusher in 2007, was granted a sixth year of eligibility by the NCAA. In an attempt to get both he and Vai Taua, the WAC's leading rusher in 2008, on the field at the same time, Lippincott is working at H-Back and wide receiver. Taua is also a candidate to return punts. Quarterback Colin Kaepernick also rushed for more than 1,000 yards in a season.

FAST FACTS: Wolf Pack — Coach Chris Ault is 15-9 in 24 season openers. ... Since joining the FBS in 1992, Nevada is 4-13 in season openers. ... Nevada is the 64th team to visit Notre Dame Stadium. The Irish has a 54-8-1 mark against first-time guests. ... QB Colin Kaepernick ran for 1,130 yards and threw for 2,849 last season to become the first player in the 1,000-2,500 club. ... Fighting Irish — Clausen was 43rd nationally in passing efficiency last season with a rating of 132.49. He completed 268 of 440 passes for 3,172 yards and 25 touchdowns. ... Notre Dame has 15 games without a turnover during Charlie Weis' tenure. ... UND is 70-8-3 in season openers at Notre Dame Stadium.

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Wolf Pack

QB Colin Kaepernick — The junior signal-caller will be the focal point for Nevada all season. Coach Chris Ault said Kaepernick, who must improve his completion percentage from 54 percent, has developed into the unquestioned team leader. Entering the opener in a hostile environment, Kaepernick's leadership skills — not to mention his passing ones — will be put to the test immediately.

DE Kevin Basped — The defensive line should be the strength of the Wolf Pack defense, led by Basped and fellow defensive end Dontay Moch. Basped had 18.5 tackles for loss as a sophomore.

WR Zack Quilici — A redshirt freshman, Quilici walked onto the Nevada program. But he has displayed some of the best hands on the team and played his way into the discussion at receiver, where the Wolf Pack must replace leading receiver Marko Mitchell.

Fighting Irish

WR Michael Floyd — Played as a veteran last season when he was only a true freshman, although he missed almost all of the final three games of the regular season when he was injured on the first series against Navy. Tall, long-armed and able to go up and catch deep passes, Floyd finished with 48 receptions for 719 yards and seven touchdowns. He'll be taking aim at a porous Nevada secondary in week 1.

LB Manti Te'o — As touted a defensive recruit as Notre Dame has had in many years, this "man among boys" will play in the opener, although coach Charlie Weis hadn't yet said if Te'o will start. Te'o is able to play various spots in the linebacker unit, but the bulk of his practice time has come on the weak side.

FS Harrison Smith — The junior is switching back to the secondary from linebacker, where he made nine starts last season. He'll be immediately tested in the passing game by Nevada quarterback Colin Kaepernick. "He is one of the people I'm not worrying about," coach Charlie Weis said of Smith.

INJURY WATCH:

Wolf Pack

None.

Fighting Irish

None.

Citadel at North Carolina

KICKOFF: Saturday, 6:05 p.m. ET

SERIES: North Carolina leads 3-0

2008 RANKINGS: Tar Heels: offense 92nd (7th ACC), pass 74th (5th), run 89th (8th), defense 64th (11th), pass 41st (6th), run 56th (7th)

POLLS: North Carolina (21 AP, 20 coaches)

PREDICTION: North Carolina 48, Citadel 16

KEYS TO THE GAME: The Tar Heels will be opening to find some answers at wide receiver and the offensive line when they are host to the Bulldogs, who are coming off a 4-8 season. The Bulldogs are outmanned overall but will have one of the best players on the field in WR Andre Roberts, who had 95 catches for 1,300 yards last year.

North Carolina just needs to avoid the kind of stupid mistake that might give The Citadel some hope in this mismatch. The secondary needs to shut down Roberts.

FAST FACTS: Bulldogs — Injuries dogged Citadel all summer. Not until last week did the Bulldogs have starting quarterback Bart Blanchard and stud receiver Andre Roberts on the field together. ... Were only 4-8 last year and play at the FCS level. Tar Heels — Return 15 starters from an eight-win team and are rated at least a challenger to favored Virginia Tech in their division in the ACC race. ... The team's eight wins was the most in seven years and team's bowl berth was its first since 2004. ... Three Tar Heels were on the preseason All-ACC team — Marvin Austin, Kendric Burney and Quan Sturdivant. ... Fifteen of the 25 games Butch Davis has coached at North Carolina were decided by seven points or less.

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Bulldogs

WR Andre Roberts — He had 95 catches for 1,300 yards last season. The Bulldogs will try most any way to get the ball in his hands.

Tar Heels

QB T.J. Yates — The junior signal caller is one reason for optimist at Chapel Hill. Despite missing five games with an ankle injury, he threw for 1,261 yards last season. The interesting thing to watch will be how much success he has without WR Hakeem Nicks, who left for the NFL.

LB Quan Sturdivant — Sturdivant moves from the outside, where he had a national-high 87 solo tackles last season, to move into the middle. He anchors a defense that promises to be among the ACC's best in 2009.

FS Deunta Williams — Williams was tied with CB Kendric Burney for second place in interceptions behind Trimane Goddard's seven picks last year. Williams, who has started all 25 games over the last two years, missed the spring with a wrist injury but is fine now.

INJURY WATCH:

Bulldogs

None.

Tar Heels

Junior TE Zack Pianalto missed some time because of a hamstring injury but was back practicing lightly with more than a week to go before the opener.

Senior TE Ryan Taylor (MCL, right knee) is out for one month.

Charleston Southern at Florida

KICKOFF: Saturday, 7 p.m. ET

SERIES: First meeting

2008 RANKINGS: Gators: offense 15th (1st SEC), pass 61st (5th), run 10th (1st), defense 9th (1st), pass 3rd (1st), run 15th (4th)

POLLS: Florida (1 AP, 1 coaches)

PREDICTION: Florida 77, Charleston Southern 0

KEYS TO THE GAME: Amazingly, Florida is a 73-point favorite against the Buccaneers, so don't expect the starters to stay in the game long. The Gators' schedule will escalate to Troy and then Tennessee in the following two weeks.

So what must Florida do beyond showing up? As a 10-TD favorite, Florida's chances of losing to Charleston Southern, a small, Baptist school, are infinitesimal. Still, the Gators are looking for a crisp effort from their first-team offense and defense. Florida will look to build an early lead, then bring in the second team to avoid any major injuries to the starters.

FAST FACTS: Charleston Southern — This is the first time CSU has played an SEC team. ... The Buccaneers are 0-16 all-time against BCS teams. ... Playing in the Big South conference, CSU was 7-5 last season. ... The Buccaneers allowed roughly two touchdowns per game over their last nine games in 2008. ... Gators — The Gators return all 11 defensive starters and seven offensive starters from their 2008 national title team. ... The Gators are ranked No. 1 in the AP poll for the 29th time. The Gators are 15-5 all-time when ranked first overall. ... Florida has the second-fewest turnovers in the nation since the start of the 2005 season with 65. Ball State has 61. ... Florida's current winning streak of 10 games is two wins shy of the longest in school history (12 in 1995).

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Buccaneers

WR Gerald Stevenson — The 5-10 dart averaged 12.2 yards per catch and nine of his 45 grabs were touchdowns last season. He had over 1,800 all-purpose yards in 2008.

QB A.J. Toscano — Making his first career start, he's only attempted 11 passes in his career. Facing a Florida defense with plenty of speed and athleticism, Toscano would be wise to play it safe.

Gators

WR Deonte Thompson — With starters Louis Murphy and Percy Harvin gone, Thompson has a chance to emerge as Florida's top playmaking threat in the down-field passing game. Thompson, a redshirt sophomore, has performed well in fall practices. Coaches have commented on his increased maturity and comfort level in the offense.

RB Emmanuel Moody — Moody missed the first week of fall practices with a sprained ankle. But since his return, he's impressed coaches with his tough running between the tackles. Florida's biggest running back, the 6-0, 210-pound Moody could wind up being used more in the I-formation schemes that coaches have experimented with this summer as a change of pace to the spread offense.

QB John Brantley — Provided Florida builds an early big lead, starting quarterback Tim Tebow should be hitting the showers early in the second quarter. That will leave the
rest of the game for Brantley, the strong-armed redshirt sophomore. Florida fans should get a good glimpse of life after Tebow on Saturday night.

DE Carlos Dunlap — Dunlap showed his all-around ability last season in earning defensive MVP honors in the BCS title win over Oklahoma. Last season, Dunlap had 9.5 sacks. This season, defensive coaches have said the 6-foot-7, 275-pound Dunlap is putting forth a more consistent effort in practice.

INJURY WATCH:

Buccaneers

None.

Gators

LB Dustin Doe will not play because of legal issues related to driving with a suspended license.

SS Dorain Munroe will miss 5-to-6 weeks with a damaged meniscus in his right knee. Munroe, who missed the entire 2008 season with a torn ACL, underwent arthroscopic surgery again last week. Munroe was projected to play behind starter Ahmad Black this season. With Munroe out, true freshmen Dee Finley and Josh Evans will fill his role.

WR Andre Debose is out indefinitely for what's being described is a serious hamstring injury. He is scheduled to undergo an MRI. It's unclear at this point if he will need surgery. Debose has had lingering hamstring problems since the start of fall practice. "It's possibly a torn tendon," Florida coach Urban Meyer said. Debose was considered the best prospect in Florida's 2009 class and a potential replacement at slot receiver for Percy Harvin.

LB Brandon Hicks has missed the majority of fall practices with ankle problems. As a result, Hicks could end up losing his starting job at outside linebacker to A.J. Jones.

WR Carl Moore is questionable for the season opener because of back problems.

Louisiana-Monroe at Texas

KICKOFF: Saturday, 7 p.m. ET

SERIES: First meeting

2008 RANKINGS: Warhawks: offense 82nd (7th Sun Belt), pass 89th (8th), run 53rd (4th), defense 109th (7th), pass 88th (5th), run 109th (7th)

Longhorns: offense 9th (5th Big 12), pass 7th (4th), run 41st (5th), defense 51st (1st), pass 59th (2nd), run 3rd (1st)

POLLS: Texas (2 AP and coaches)

PREDICTION: Texas 43, ULM 12

KEYS TO THE GAME: The Warhawks pulled off a huge upset two years ago when they beat Alabama. However, Sun Belt teams have not fared well against Texas, and nothing figures to change this week. The Longhorns have heard all about the 'Bama upset from running backs coach Major Applewhite, who was an offensive assistant at Alabama for that loss.

ULM is inexperienced at quarterback, and its highly-touted defense will likely be overmatched by the Longhorns' offense.

For Texas, the opener offers a chance to find a complementary receiver for WR Jordan Shipley and possibly give RB Vondrell McGee enough carries to prove he can be a featured rusher.

The Louisiana-Monroe defense is experienced, though some creases could form because the Warhawks are introducing a 4-2-5 scheme brought in by new coordinator Troy Reffett.

FAST FACTS: Warhawks — ULM will earn $850,000 from Texas for this game. ... Coach Charlie Weatherbie is 20 games under .500 (25-45) as the Warhawks' coach. ... The team returns 18 starters including 10 on defense. ... ULM lost three games by three points or less last season. Longhorns — Texas is facing a non-BCS opponent in the opener for the 10th straight season. ... Four-year starter Colt McCoy was the Heisman silver medalist last season. He had 34 TD passes and a 76.7 completion percentage. ... Texas has won its last nine opening games by an average of 43 points.

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Warhawks

RB Frank Goodin — The junior could be more of a focal point in the offense this season. He gained a team-high 783 yards and scored five touchdowns last season.

LBs Cardia Jackson and Josh Thompson — The duo combined for 235 tackles, including 11 for losses and five sacks last season.

DB James Truxillo — The senior sat out last season with a knee injury, but will add to an already talented secondary. His experience and leadership should be invaluable.

S Greg James — Leads all active players with 13 career interceptions. While Colt McCoy doesn't make big mistakes, James is often in the right place at the right time.

WR Darrell McNeal — Had a team-high 51 catches and four TD grabs last season, when he had five other touchdowns — one throwing, four rushing.

Longhorns

QB Colt McCoy — The senior is already a mainstay in the Texas record books, but he needs to work on developing another key receiver following the loss of Quan Cosby. McCoy is not afraid to bolt the pocket, though Texas probably prefers to limit whatever contact he may receive.

TB Vondrell McGee — He was named as the starter in camp, which came as a bit of a surprise. He needs to run with the job and try to separate himself from other candidates, namely Cody Johnson and Fozzy Whittaker. There is still a strong likelihood Texas will rely on a committee approach.

S Blake Gideon — He is recognized as the Longhorn who dropped an interception that could have preserved a win last season at Texas Tech. He is also a terrific young talent who started all 13 games last year as a freshman. Causes problems on the blitz and is solid as both a cover man and tackler.

INJURY WATCH:

Warhawks

ULM senior WR Darrell McNeil, who missed the spring due to academics, is eligible.

Longhorns

TB Fozzy Whittaker was hurt throughout much of fall camp, but expected to participate in practice during the week leading up to the opener against Louisiana-Monroe. Whittaker missed six games last season because of knee injuries.

WR John Chiles has looked good making the transition from quarterback, a spot he manned the past two seasons as the backup behind QB Colt McCoy. Chiles played some at receiver last season, though the results were spotty at best.

TE D.J. Grant suffered a season-ending knee injury during the first week of fall camp. He became the third tight end sidelined for the season, joining Blaine Irby (knee) and Josh Marshall (shoulder). Irby led the Longhorns' tight ends with 10 receptions last season, despite playing in just three games.

BYU vs. Oklahoma

KICKOFF: Saturday, 7 p.m. ET

SERIES: BYU leads 1-0, a 31-6 win in 1994 Copper Bowl

2008 RANKINGS: Cougars: offense 16th (1st MWC), pass 6th (1st), run 70th (7th), defense 59th (6th), pass 64th (5th), run 60th (5th)

Sooners: offense 3rd (1st Big 12), pass 3rd (2nd), run 20th (2nd), defense 68 (3rd), pass 46th (1st), run 20th (2nd)

POLLS: BYU (20 AP, 24 coaches); Oklahoma (3 AP, coaches)

PREDICTION: Oklahoma 40, BYU 20

KEYS TO THE GAME: The sparkling new Cowboys Stadium is the setting for a rare MWC-Big 12 crossover. Oklahoma played in the 2008 national championship game and lost to Florida. BYU began last season as a popular pick to crash the BCS but didn't get there as Utah and TCU had better showings.

OU wants to see a strong game from its offensive line and wide receivers. Everything else would appear to be a given. If BYU can find a weak spot to exploit, it might well be the Sooner secondary, which starts two new safeties in Sam Proctor and Quinton Carter. Otherwise, the Cougars opportunities may be slim.

The Cougars are already hearing how cool the new Dallas Cowboys stadium is, especially the massive video board. The question is whether BYU will dare want to look at it. It's a big-time uphill battle to square off with an opponent like the Sooners, and BYU will also be breaking in a very inexperienced offensive line and secondary. BYU QB Max Hall calls the Sooners the best team he's ever faced.

FAST FACTS: Cougars — BYU is coming off of its third consecutive 10-win season. ... The Cougars have a 14-22 overall record against Big 12 opponents. BYU has faced every team in the conference except Nebraska, and has a winning record against Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas and Texas A&M. The last Big 12 vs. BYU matchup was on Jan. 1, 1997 when the Cougars defeated Kansas State, 19-15, at the Cotton Bowl. ... Despite their loss to Arizona in the 2008 Las Vegas Bowl, the Cougars are 148-44 when nationally ranked in the Top 25. With the loss, a ranked BYU team has won 17 of its last 20 games, dating back to 2006. ... The 2008 bowl game against Arizona marked senior defensive lineman Jan Jorgensen's 39th straight career start. During that streak, Jorgensen has started every game of his collegiate career and set a new MWC all-time career sack record at 22.5. His first career start came against Arizona on Sept. 2, 2006. ... In 2008 BYU was the first team to score in eight of 13 games, marking 31 times in the last 38 games. The Cougars are 29-2 in those 31 games. Sooners — QB Sam Bradford needs just 159 passing yards to reach 8,000 in his career. ... Coach Bob Stoops is 9-1 in openers. ... The Sooners could play three games at the Metroplex in Arlington this season with the Big 12 title game following the regularly scheduled Red River Shootout vs. Texas. ... The roof will be closed for this game. The Sooners are 4-4 in domed stadiums. ... OU has four new starters on the offensive line. ... TE Jermaine Grisham has a chance to become the most prolific TD scorer at his position in NCAA history. He has 26 TDs, seven shy of Ibn Green.

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Cougars

QB Max Hall — A Heisman Trophy candidate last September after some strong games, he could be back on people's lips with a big game against OU. He is the unquestioned leader, and this is his last chance as a senior to define his legacy among the great line of BYU quarterbacks. The third-year starter knows one thing he cannot do, however, and that is try to win the game himself. He must spread the ball around and be smart, otherwise he'll be back in the depressing scenario of last year — throwing a combined seven interceptions against TCU and Utah.

TE Dennis Pitta — QB Max Hall's brother in-law was the second favorite target last year. Now he steps up to No. 1 after the early departure of WR Austin Collie. Pitta is a big guy with NFL dreams, and he'll be relied upon often is short-yardage, touchdown and third-down situations.

WR/KR McKay Jacobson — He was the best Mountain West Conference newcomer as a freshman, and after a two-year Mormon mission he'll be counted on to be a playmaker. Jacobson is 5-11, a few inches shorter than predecessor Austin Collie, but his speed and instincts make him a constant threat. This first game will be extra special, as he'll play in front of many family members. He formerly played at Dallas-area high school power Southlake Carroll.

Sooners

QB Sam Bradford — Can the junior possibly improve on his Heisman Trophy season? Maybe not, but watching him try will be a season-long subplot, as will his ability to stay upright behind an offensive line that returns only one starter.

MLB Ryan Reynolds — Reynolds' weak-side mate, Travis Lewis, may be OU's best linebacker, but Reynolds may again be the Sooners' most important linebacker. The caliber of his play, coming off season-ending ACL surgery, could be the difference between OU sporting a dominant experienced defense or simply having a very good but ultimately fragile defense.

FS Sam Proctor — An interesting young man, Proctor, a redshirt sophomore, became the man of the house as a 6-year old when his father was killed in an auto accident. The serious persona he cultivated in the aftermath of tragedy remains as he begins his first year as a starter as the Sooners' last line of defense.

INJURY WATCH:

Cougars

LT Matt Reynolds, the lone returning starter on the O-line, fractured his hand early in fall camp. His return for the OU game is expected, but it remains to be seen what kind of cast or brace he has to wear, and how that will affect his performance.

Junior CB Brandon Bradley, mostly because of injuries, has had to wait his turn. Even his fall camp was limited because of a groin issue and knee tendinitis. But his athleticism and knowledge of BYU's defense would come in very handy this year. Bradley is expected to start, as he's hardly the only secondary player to miss some camp time. But the question is, can he stay healthy?

K Mitch Payne had a very rough camp. Head coach Bronco Mendenhall is still counting on him, but freshman Riley Stephenson (also the punter) could be competition.

Sooners

C Ben Habern's status remains a question mark. A sore back has kept him occasionally sidelined during the preseason. Sooner fans could see TE Brody Eldridge given a shot at center if Habern can't go.

MLB Mike Balogun likely will not receive clearance from the NCAA in time for the game. There's the possibility he may not receive it at all.

Florida Atlantic at Nebraska

KICKOFF: Saturday, 7 p.m. ET

SERIES: First meeting

2008 RANKINGS: Owls: offense 42nd (4th Sun Belt), pass 25th (1st), run 66th (5th), defense 92nd (5th), pass 89th (6th), run 98th (5th)

Cornhuskers: offense 12th (6th Big 12), pass 15th (6th), run 37th (4th), defense 55th (2nd), pass 82nd (8th), run 21st (3rd)

POLLS: Nebraska (24 AP, 22 coaches)

PREDICTION: Nebraska 28, Florida Atlantic 18

KEYS TO THE GAME: For the second straight season, FAU will open up at a traditional national power. But unlike last season's 52-10 drubbing at Texas to open the 2008 season, FAU should remain more competitive as Nebraska is still in the process of rebuilding under second-year coach Bo Pelini. To keep it close, FAU will need to protect senior quarterback Rusty Smith. Clean blocking up front would allow the strong-armed lefty to make big plays down the field. That won't be easy. All-American candidate Ndamukong Suh is a one-man wrecking crew who could become a realistic candidate for the Heisman Trophy if he plays at his very best each week.

Look for Nebraska to bring pressure through creative blitz schemes in an attempt to rattle Smith. If the Owls can keep Smith upright and limit turnovers, they may have a chance to hang around until the third or fourth quarter.

Nebraska shouldn't have problems scoring points against a sub-par Owls defense. Junior receiver Niles Paul has separated himself from the rest of the group with an impressive fall camp. That's good news for Paul, but leaves some questions about the other receiver spots. Look for the tight ends, led by Mike McNeill, to play a huge rule in the passing game. Along the line, junior Ricky Henry, a transfer who redshirted last season, will start at right guard, allowing Jacob Hickman to remain at his natural position of center.

FAST FACTS: Owls — Coach Howard Schnellenberger (Kentucky, '56) has built the Florida Atlantic football program from its infancy. Schnellenberger is the only coach in the program's history and has a 48-48 record in eight seasons. He owns a 148-125-3 overall record as a collegiate head coach, including stops at Oklahoma, Louisville and Miami. He is 1-1 against Nebraska in his career. ... Florida Atlantic is the first of three Sun Belt Conference opponents that will visit Memorial Stadium in September. ... Florida Atlantic will be the first team from the state of Florida to visit Memorial Stadium since Central Florida played in Lincoln in 1997. Saturday's game also marks the Huskers' first game against an opponent from Florida since a loss to Miami in the 2002 Rose Bowl. ... Cornhuskers — At No. 24, Nebraska is ranked in the preseason Associated Press poll for only the second time since 2002. The last time the Huskers earned a preseason ranking was in 2007, when they started the season No. 20, defeated Nevada 52-10 in the season opener ... and finished 5-7. ... Nebraska will be a young football team. Unofficially, the Huskers have only five seniors in the entire starting lineup, and could give significant playing time to as many as 11 sophomores and 11 redshirt freshmen. ... Nebraska won its final four games, and six of its last seven to finish with a 9-4 record in Bo Pelini's first season as head coach.

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Owls

QB Rusty Smith — After guiding FAU to back-to-back bowl wins, Smith is looking to finish a stellar career on a positive note. Smith struggled early last season with his throwing mechanics after suffering a separated right (non-throwing) shoulder in the season opener at Texas. This season, Smith is looking to remain healthy and return to his 2007 form, when he threw for 3,688 yards and 32 TDs to lead the Owls to a Sun Belt title.

WR Cortez Gent — As quarterback Rusty Smith's top target, Gent was named as one of 37 finalists for the Belitnikoff Award, given to the nation's top receiver. Though Gent lacks breakaway speed, he makes up for it with his size (6-2, 185 pounds) and instincts. Gent has caught 18 career TDs, all from Smith.

TE Jason Harmon — Harmon emerged as one of the top tight ends in college football before a knee injury sidelined him for the entire 2008 season, If Harmon can return to form, it will give quarterback Rusty Smith another weapon in the passing game.

DT Josh Savidge — A fifth-year senior, Savidge will be counted on to lead a young Florida Atlantic defense through some growing pains. The 6-foot-2, 285 pound Savidge makes up for his lack of size inside with relentless effort.

Cornhuskers

LB Sean Fisher — The redshirt freshman will make his debut starting at strongside linebacker, but the 6-foot-6, 238-pound Fisher is versatile. He'll be Nebraska's top linebacker in nickel and dime packages as well.

QB Zac Lee — A junior college transfer who redshirted last season, Lee has quietly solidified a starting role. Considering he's never made a start, there seems to be little concern in Husker camp about Lee, who teammates say is a confident leader with a strong arm.

RB Rex Burkhead — It's been many years since a Nebraska coaching staff has been so blunt about a true freshman playing right away. Burkhead, who gained hero status in high school at Plano, Texas, is the Huskers' No. 2 running back and might return kicks, too.

INJURY WATCH:

Owls

OT Carl Spitale is questionable with a sore neck. Spitale is awaiting clearance to resume contact.

LB Toney Moore, a true freshman, is still recovering from a knee injury he suffered midway through his high school senior season. Moore will probably redshirt this season.

Cornhuskers

RB Quentin Castille, dismissed from the team on Aug. 22, has transferred to FCS school Northwestern (La.) State and can play this season.

QB Kody Spano is out for the season after tearing his ACL for a second time. Spano first tore the same ACL in March and had been cleared to return to action when he suffered the second injury early in fall camp. Spano redshirted last season.

Northern Colorado at Kansas

KICKOFF: Saturday, 7 p.m. ET

SERIES: First meeting

2008 RANKINGS: Jayhawks: offense 21st (7th Big 12), pass 8th (5th), run 83rd (9th), defense 89th (7th), pass 69th (3rd), run 28th (4th)

POLLS: Kansas (25 AP, NR coaches)

PREDICTION: Kansas 61, Northern Colorado 7

KEYS TO THE GAME: With 17 consecutive nonconference wins at home and 18 straight home wins in night games, Kansas won't be threatened by an opponent from the Football Championship Subdivision. The matchup was arranged, in part, because Northern Colorado athletic director Jay Hinrichs was once an associate AD at Kansas, which is his alma mater.

For the Jayhawks, the opener is a continuation of whatever principles they needed to learn during fall camp. This is particularly true on defense, where new coordinator Bill Miller introduced various schemes, including a 4-2-5 look. Kansas will also use three linebackers at times. It would be nice for Kansas to give QB Kale Pick, the new backup, some reps, especially since it wants to use WR Kerry Meier, a former quarterback, full time as a receiver.

FAST FACTS: Bears — Northern Colorado went 1-10 in the Big Sky last season. ... The Bears lost to Hawaii, 63-6, and Purdue, 42-10, in their past two season openers. ... The Bears are 2-9 all-time against teams from the Big 12. ... The Bears allowed 37 total touchdowns last season, including 20 via the pass. ... Northern Colorado led the Big Sky in redzone defense (.714) last season. Jayhawks — Attendance over the last nine home games has been listed at 48,000 or more, which is close to capacity. ... Mangino figures to become the winningest coach in Kansas history. He stands 45-41 through seven seasons and needs eight wins to overtake the all-time wins leader among KU coaches, A.R. Kennedy, who went 52-9-4 from 1904-10. ... The Jayhawks have won five straight season openers, doing so by an average of 27 ppg. The last three have been even more impressive (35.3 ppg). Kansas has won 17 straight non-conference home games.

PLAYERS TO WATCH:
Bears

RB Andre Harris — A junior college transfer billed as one of the best backs out of California in a few years, Harris and DC Wilson (375 rush yards in 2008) could become a decent 1-2 punch in the Big Sky.

QB Bryan Waggener — Averaged 232 passing yards per game last season. If the Jayhawks are lulled to sleep, Waggener won't hesitate to let it rip. He threw 15 interceptions last season.

Jayhawks

WR Dezmon Briscoe — He missed spring camp to tend to academic responsibilities and was not reinstated until fall practice began. Assuming he's back in good graces with the Kansas staff, Briscoe rates as one of the most dangerous receivers in the Big 12. He carries a string of four straight 100-yard receiving games.

SS Darrell Stuckey — He was the glue behind the Kansas secondary last season, starting all 13 games while the other three spots were manned by seven different starters. Stuckey is valuable in both run support and coverage, and is the most intuitive defender on the squad.

QB Todd Reesing — The senior is somewhat underrated in a conference loaded with high-level quarterbacks, but he is the biggest reason behind the 20 victories Kansas posted over the past two seasons. His instincts and his improvisation are key, but the Kansas line provide better protection and not force Reesing to make so many plays while scrambling.

INJURY WATCH:

Bears

None.

Jayhawks

OL Jose Rodriguez, a senior, was dismissed from the squad. Rodriguez was arrested in July following an incident at a Lawrence nightclub. Rodriguez had not cracked the two-deep.

LB Angus Quigley, who moved from running back into that position and was expected to contend for a starting berth, was not listed on the two-deep when Kansas released its latest depth chart a week prior to the opener.

RB Toben Opurem, a freshman considered one of the plums in the 2009 recruiting class, shared the backup spot on the depth chart with RB Rell Lewis, a sophomore.

Alabama vs. Virginia Tech

KICKOFF: Saturday, 8 p.m. ET (at Atlanta)

SERIES: Alabama leads 10-1 (last meeting, 1998, 38-7, Virginia Tech)

2008 RANKINGS: Crimson Tide: offense 63rd (6th SEC), pass 97th (9th), run 30th (3rd), defense T-3rd (1st), pass 14th (3rd), run 2nd (1st)

Hokies: offense 103rd (11th ACC), pass 111th (11th), run 35th (3rd), defense 7th (2nd), pass 28th (5th), run 14th (2nd)

POLLS: Alabama (5 AP, coaches); Virginia Tech (7 AP, coaches)

PREDICTION: Alabama 22, Virginia Tech 17

KEYS TO THE GAME: The game is a sellout at the Georgia Dome.

Alabama will want to echo last year's style. At least in this first game, ball control and defense will be the Tide's plan on how to win.

Alabama had a veteran offensive line, quarterback and running backs last season. This year, the line has only one true returning starter (guard Mike Johnson), a new quarterback, and no proven workhorse running back. The strength is at wide receiver, led by sophomore Julio Jones. However, getting him the ball will come down to how well the line protects and how new quarterback Greg McElroy reads defenses. That lends itself to being a conservative, ball-control offense, which fits with the successful formula the Tide used last year when it led the SEC in time of possession and number of touchdown drives of over five minutes.

The key for the Hokies' defense will be the play of ILBs Barquell Rivers and Jake Johnson, both first-year starters. Can they hold up against the Crimson Tide's power running attack and not sucker for the play-action game? And how will new CB Rashad Carmichael do against taller Julio Jones, one of the nation's top wideouts?

Tech must stop Alabama's running game and force newbie Greg McElroy to throw the ball. Bud Foster-coached defenses generally flummox first-time starters such as McElroy. On offense, QB Tyrod Taylor will have to make plays with his arm, as the Crimson Tide is sure to load the tackle box. The Hokies' special teams have to show the consistency that has been missing at times the last two years.

FAST FACTS: Crimson Tide — Nick Saban will be receiving a contract extension, through 2017, in the near future according to school sources. Saban's original contract was for eight years, through the 2014 season, and paid him an average of $4 million a season over the life of that contract. Details of the new contract were not released and won't be until final approval by the Board of Trustees UA Compensation Committee. Saban says the extension means he hopes to be the head coach at Alabama for "the rest of our coaching career." ... CB Kareem Jackson has played in all 27 games since he arrived at the University of Alabama. But what he's most proud of is that in that same time, he has not missed a single practice. "I just won't let myself miss," Jackson said. ... P P.J. Fitzgerald has gotten off 88 consecutive punts since he last had one blocked. Virginia Tech is known as one of the best in the country every year at blocking kicks, having blocked two punts and a pair of field goals last year. ... Alabama opens the 2009 season ranked fifth in the Associated Press and USA Today Coaches' preseason polls. It is highest preseason ranking for the Tide since the 2000 season when they opened at No. 3, and just the third time UA has been ranked in the preseason poll since the 2000 season. ... Alabama's last win over Virginia Tech was in 1979. ... The Crimson Tide started the 2008 surprise season by throttling Clemson at the Georgia Dome.

Hokies — TB Darren Evans suffered a season-ending ACL tear during a non-contact drill in practice on Aug. 11. Evans, who sat out the previous three days with a knee injury, rushed for nearly 1,300 yards last year and was named MVP of the Orange Bowl. He underwent surgery within a week of the injury and is expected to return for spring practice. ... Tech is 81-33-1 in season-opening games. Frank Beamer is 16-6 in kickoff games. ... Virginia Tech is one of three FBS teams — Southern Cal and Texas — to win 10 or more games in each of the last five seasons. ... This is the third time Tech will open a season vs. Alabama (1968, '69). ... Tech blocked two punts in the 1998 Music City Bowl vs. Alabama. ... Tech is 136-15 during its current 16-year bowl streak when outrushing its opponent and 16-34 when being outrushed.

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Crimson Tide

LB Rolando McClain — A junior who is a third-year starter, McClain is one of the most exciting linebackers to watch in college football. Fast and strong, McClain has great field awareness. This year, he'll be asked to be a more vocal leader on the field, stepping into the role of former safety Rashad Johnson.

WR Julio Jones — After making his mark as a true freshman last year while playing through a sports hernia and a wrist injury that required offseason surgery, Jones is healthy, as well as smarter. One of the top receivers in the game, much of Alabama's offense will be geared to getting the ball into his hands.

QB Greg McElroy — The junior gets his first start, replacing a quarterback (John Parker Wilson) who set every major quarterback record in school history. Expect McElroy to be a "game manager" in this first contest. But McElroy wants to prove he can do more.

NT Terrence Cody — "Mount Cody" burst onto the sporting consciousness in this game last year. He's impossible to ignore because of his size and athleticism. Cody wants to prove he can be an every-down player this year. Here is his first chance to do that.

Hokies

QB Tyrod Taylor — This is now his team with the graduation of Sean Glennon. Teammates and coaches all say Taylor has played and prepared with purpose in preseason. This game, with a national TV audience and a sellout crowd watching, would be a good time for Taylor to prove it.

TB Ryan Williams — The injury to TB Darren Evans has thrust Williams into the No. 1 spot at tailback. Tech fans wanted to see him last year, but the coaches kept his redshirt on, making this game his debut. Williams was brilliant in spring practice but missed time in preseason with an injury.

DE Jason Worilds — Possessor of a non-stop motor, as well as quickness and strength, Worilds could be Alabama QB Greg McElroy's worst nightmare. If the Hokies can force the Crimson Tide into enough third-and-long situations, Worilds will be difficult to keep out of the backfield.

INJURY WATCH:

Crimson Tide

NT Terrance Cody, a senior All-American, missed several days of practice after coming down with flu-like symptoms. Several other players were limited due to upper-respiratory infections that had been going around the Tuscaloosa campus. The standard procedure at Alabama is quarantine until fever has gone. As flu-like symptoms sweep the campus, the medical staff is closely monitoring the team the week of the first game.

Hokies

TB Darren Evans suffered a season-ending ACL tear during a non-contact drill in practice on Aug. 11. Evans, who sat out the previous three days with a knee injury, rushed for nearly 1,300 yards last year and was named MVP of the Orange Bowl. He underwent surgery within a week of the injury and is expected to return for spring practice.

Maryland at California

KICKOFF: Saturday, 10 p.m. ET

SERIES: Maryland leads 1-0. The Terrapins won the only meeting, 35-27, last season.

2008 RANKINGS: Terrapins: offense 68th (3rd ACC), pass 64th (2nd), run 61st (4th), defense 63rd (10th), pass 61st (10th), run 71st (9th)

Bears: offense 47th (5th Pac-10), pass 83rd (7th), run 29th (4th), defense 26th (4th), pass 6th (2nd), run 25th (3rd)

POLLS: Cal (12 AP, coaches)

PREDICTION: Cal 31, Maryland 17

KEYS TO THE GAME: The defense, which returns eight starters from a group that had a knack for creating turnovers, should be the team's strength. Point of fact, this unit did very little against the Terps last season.

Maryland QB Chris Turner is back this season. He had one of the best games of his career against Cal, going 15-for-19 with two TDs after struggling in the previous two games against Delaware and Middle Tennessee. The Bears should be solid everywhere, with the only question being the linebacker. They must get a pass rush from their DEs, Cameron Jordan and Tyson Alualu, who are very capable of getting some sacks.

The Terps surprised Cal last season at Maryland, dominating the Bears in a 35-28 game that was not as close as the score suggests. The humidity, the time-zone change and the early start (9 a.m. Pacific time kickoff) were cited as reasons for the Bears' poor showing, but none can account for the Terps' dominance. Maryland QB Chris Turner is back after having his best game of the 2008 season against Cal last year, completing 15-of-19 passes with two TD passes and no interceptions. Cal has not lost a home opener since 2001.

California's not going to take the Terrapins lightly. A big factor here will be the performance of the offensive and defensive lines. If the Terps can protect Chris Turner and disrupt the Cal backfield, it can score the upset for the second year in a row. If not, it'll be tough to win in Berkeley.

FAST FACTS: Terrapins — Maryland is 6-2 versus Top 25 teams in the past two seasons. ... RB Da'Rel Scott, a 2008 first-team All-ACC choice, rushed for 1,133 yards, the seventh-highest single-season total in school history, while Torrey Smith, a sophomore, set the ACC single-season record for kickoff return yards (1,089) and had 24 receptions for 336 yards. ... The team is 6-2 in season openers under Friedgen, including wins in its last five. The Terps have not played a season opener on the road since 2003 when they visited Northern Illinois. Saturday marks the first time Maryland has opened the season on the road vs. a ranked team since 1992 (Penn State). In addition, Cal marks the highest-ranked team to face the Terps in an opener since 1982 (Penn State). ... Maryland is 6-2 against teams ranked in the Top 25 over the past two seasons. The Terps were among the best in the nation last season playing ranked opponents. The Terps went 4-1 vs. ranked foes (AP poll) with wins vs. No. 23 Cal, No. 20 Clemson, No. 21 Wake Forest and No. 17 UNC. The Terps were one of only five teams in the nation (also Florida, Oklahoma, USC and Texas) to beat at least four Top 25 teams. ... Bears — Cal is 29-4 at home since midway in the 2003 season. Two of those losses were to Southern California and the other two were to Oregon State. Cal has gone unbeaten at home in three of the past five seasons, including last year, when it was 7-0 in Berkeley.
... Cal's No. 12 ranking in the preseason Associated Press poll represents the fifth time in the past six years the Bears were ranked in preseason. Their highest preseason ranking was No. 9 in 2006, when Cal lost its opener to Tennessee.

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Terrapins

K Mike Barbour — Barbour looks like he's beaten out Nick Ferrera and Nick Wallace to become the starting kicker, but it's not like he has a long leash. It would be good for Barbour to start the season strong if he wants to keep the job.

PR Tony Logan — The sophomore looked like a safe bet to take over from the graduated Danny Oquendo as the primary punt returner, especially after getting six returns for 49 yards in the team's Humanitarian Bowl victory a year ago. But a fumble in the team's last scrimmage of the summer gives him a little less security, since the thing coach Ralph Friedgen can't accept on his special teams is turnovers.

OL Bruce Campbell — The junior left tackle is the veteran of the new-look line thanks to his eight career starts. He's also among the strongest players on the team, and at 6-7, 310 pounds, he has NFL size and talent. If he can harness that talent this season, the Terps line will surprise its many doubters in the ACC.

Bears

QB Kevin Riley — It's not "now or never" but ... whether he can be the consistent passer Cal needs could be revealed in this game. He had played pretty well in the first two games last season, but struggled against the Terps. His final statistics for that game were respectable (33-for-58, 423 yards, three TDs, one interception), but they were padded by racking up a bunch of completions and yards after the game was out of reach.

RB Jahvid Best — The hype will need to be supported by production in the opener, and Maryland made him look very ordinary last season. Best gained only 25 yards on 10 carries against Maryland last season, and the most-repeated film clip was a shot of Best vomiting after taking hard hit following a pass reception. Whether Best's sore toe and preseason inactivity will affect his speed and cutting ability is an issue to watch.

LB Mike Mohamed — The Bears need a big-play linebacker to replace the game-changing plays regularly turned in by departed LB Zack Follett. Mohamed is the best bet to produce those kinds of plays. An on-and-off starter last season amid the talented and deep linebacker corps, Mohamed now has a chance to show that he can be something special.

INJURY WATCH:

Terrapins

None.

Bears

Fifth-year TE Tad Smith was battling for a starting spot until he tore his anterior cruciate ligament in Cal's Aug. 18 scrimmage. He is out for the season. He might petition for a sixth season because he missed all of the 2005 season with a torn ACL. Anthony Miller became the starting tight end by default.

WR Michael Calvin had arthroscopic surgery on his knee on August 17 to clear up some problems following major surgery last October. He probably will miss the first two or three games.

Isi Sofele — a 5-foot-7 running back, wide receiver, kick returner and special-teams gunner — is the only true freshman certain to play this season for Cal. Another true freshman, OL Brian Schwenke, might play too if there are injuries on the offensive line.

Backup LB Robert Mullins is expected to miss the first four or five games with a sprained knee. He was expected to see playing time in the linebacker rotation.

C Chris Guarnero had surgery on August 18 to repair a torn ligament in his thumb, but he missed only a few days of practice.

LSU at Washington

KICKOFF: Saturday, 10:30 p.m. ET

SERIES: LSU leads 1-0; LSU won 40-14 in Baton Rouge in 1983.

2008 RANKINGS: Huskies: offense 116th (9th Pac-10), pass 101st (8th), run 106th (7th), defense 110th (10th), pass 115th (10th), run 117th (9th)

Tigers: offense 55th (5th SEC), pass 71st (6th), run 43rd (4th), defense 32nd (9th), pass 42nd (6th), run 17th (5th)

POLLS: LSU (11 AP, 9 coaches)

PREDICTION: LSU 49, Washington 10

KEYS TO THE GAME: A full house will be waiting to explode should UW do anything well early in the game. It's critical that the Huskies get the crowd into the game. Offensively, UW needs to take care of the ball and not drop passes and stay on the field as long as it can. LSU's defense figures to try to put pressure on Jake Locker early and he has the ability to make plays with his feet. Defensively, the Huskies have to force Jordan Jefferson into passing situations and not let the Tigers dictate the game offensively.

Unless the Tigers are completely bamboozled by the time change, they should be able to keep things under control at Seattle because of its strength along both lines. The defense needs to keepe Locker in check; he's a fearless runner.

FAST FACTS: Huskies — Have lost 14 straight games. UW's last win was Nov. 17, 2007 vs. Cal. ... Steve Sarkisian, former offensive coordinator at Southern Cal, is coaching his first game at Washington. ... Tigers — The Tigers have 19 straight nonconference wins. ... LSU will travel more than 2,550 miles for this game. The team scheduled departure was Thursday and won't return until Sunday afternoon. ... LSU last played a true West Coast game in 1984 (Southern Cal). ... LSU has 42 wins in the past four seasons. ... The Tigers lost five games last season including four teams that finished in the top 14.

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Huskies

QB Jake Locker — The talented junior is fully healthy as he enters the season and in his fourth year and with a new coach, could be ready for a true breakout season. Task No. 1 is to get some confidence going early with the passing game. Locker has shown improved touch in camp.

RB Chris Polk — The redshirt freshman will apparently be the first tailback out of the gate for the Huskies. UW figures, however, to use a committee approach, also getting the likes of Johri Fogerson and Curtis Shaw on the field, as well. But Polk is the most versatile of all and any success the Huskies can have in mounting a traditional running game will loosen things up for Locker.

DE Daniel Te'o-Nesheim — The senior is the leader of the defense and a four-year starter. He will likely be matched up often against LSU All-American candidate LT Ciron Black and has to at least hold him to a standoff.

OLB E.J.Savannah — Back after sitting out last season, Savannah will be in position to make lots of tackles and has to prove sure-handed and not let small plays become big ones.

Tigers

QB Jordan Jefferson — Jefferson had the starting job as a true freshman by the end of last season and he maintained his grip on the position in camp. He has earned raves in the preseason for the maturity and leadership he has shown since taking over. He was only 36-of-73 passing in seven games last season but was 16 of 25 in the bowl win over Georgia Tech.

TB Charles Scott — Scott has the speed to get yardage outside and the power to get the tough ground inside. He goes into the season with 1,775 career rushing yards, 1,174 of which came last season.

WR Brandon LaFell — LaFell has been LSU's top receiver for each of the last two years (1,585 receiving yards total in 2007 and 2008) and is an adept downfield blocker as well. He has had at least one reception in 28 consecutive games.

DE Rahim Alem — Alem had only one start in 2008 but still earned second-team All-ACC honors after registering eight sacks (all solo), third in the league. He's one reason why the defense is expected to take a big step up in 2009.

INJURY WATCH:

Huskies

Backup OLB Matt Houston could be out a few more weeks with a biceps injury.

S Jason Wells, a starter in 2006 and 2007 before suffering knee and Achilles injuries, re-aggravated the latter early in camp and is likely out for the LSU game. He figures to be a backup this season.

OT Skyler Fancher, who figured to have a key role providing depth up front though likely not as a starter, re-injured an ankle in camp and could be out a while.

The most significant position change came right before camp when sophomore Johir Fogerson was moved from safety to tailback, his preferred position. Fogerson thrived at the switch back the spot he played the first month of last season and figures to see significant playing time.

Tigers

Senior LB Jacob Cutrera missed nearly two weeks of practice because of undisclosed injuries but was back as the Tigers got ready for game-week preparations. The school is not releasing injury information, but the Morning Advocate in Baton Rouge reported that conjecture ranged from a hip flexor to a staph infection. Cutrera had five starts in playing mostly as a backup to Darry Beckwith last year.

Senior TE Richard Dickson was taking it easy as a precaution to protect his hamstring. Dickson has a good chance of ending the year with about all of LSU's receiving records for tight ends.