2006 NCAA Football Preview

The Conference USA is seen by the college football community as a hodgepodge of teams from throughout the United States that don’t fit neatly into another conference. While the geography of the conference may lend some credence to this reputation, the talent within Conference USA in 2006 should distinguish itself as one of the more fascinating conferences to watch in college football. With high-powered offenses in Houston, Southern Mississippi, UTEP, and Tulsa, among others, fans and football lovers alike should watch the conference for some high powered shootouts. Look for the teams with the most adequate defenses to pull out the big wins in conference play.

Eastern Division
1. Southern Mississippi- The Golden Eagles have a solid, but not prolific, quarterback in Jeremy Young, whose speed will allow Southern Miss to move the pocket left and right. Unlike the pass heavy approach of 2005, Southern Mississippi’s offensive staff will focus on a double-barreled running threat with Larry Thomas and Cody Hull easing the pressure off of Young. The defense is more experienced and after a surprising performance in 2005 will start to make more big plays in big games.

2. UCF- The Golden Knights will focus on the run game, with all five starters returning to the offensive line and versatile back Kevin Smith joining the team. The defense is young but experienced with a solid secondary including corner back Joe Burnett and safety Jason Venson. Look for UCF to push Southern Mississippi until the end of the season for the lead in the Eastern Division and in 2007 to push even harder, making Conference USA much more competitive overall.

3. Marshall- Running back Ahmad Bradshaw is making over Marshall University from a prolific passing school to a more balanced program. Coach Mark Snyder has a good defensive scheme, solid talent on both sides of the ball, and a tough learning experience in 2005 that will allow them to make it to third place in the division and a solid chance at a bowl game.