Big East Outlook

Team to Beat

Louisville - Bobby Petrino's Cardinals enter the conference with a target on their backs. The offense is explosive with golden boy Brian Brohm at quarterback, bruising Michael Bush (250-pounds) in the backfield and a trio of solid wideouts. Most important, their offensive line is the league's best. Defense was their one and only Achilles' heel last season - three opponents hung 38 or more on them - and there are still issues. The secondary is a primary concern, where just one starter returns. Additionally, several newcomers are being counted on along the front seven. The league's top offenses may be able to take advantage of some spots in this defense. But then again, the Cards will be more than happy to get into a shootout with anyone. They'll win most.

Under the Radar

West Virginia - Questions abound at quarterback, tailback, receiver and linebacker. Additionally, the secondary lost their best player when PacMan Jones entered the NFL a year early. But the defensive line is deep, there is talent among the returning d-backs, and the offensive line will be plenty good enough to allow a tailback - whether it's tank-like freshman Jason Gwaltney, promising sophomore Pernell Williams or junior Jason Colson - to shine. If and when a replacement for Rasheed Marshall is settled on, this group could cause problems. Louisville just may be the first to find that out when they visit Morgantown Oct. 15.

Worth a trip to Heinz Field to see:

Andre Hall, RB
South Florida (Oct. 15)

James Wyche, DE
Syracuse (Oct. 22)

Damien Rhodes, RB
Syracuse (Oct. 22)

Cornell Brockington, RB
UConn (Nov. 12)

Terry Caulley, RB
UConn (Nov. 12)