2006 College Football Preview: The Big East

1. West Virginia- The Mountaineers are far too talented not to win the Big East and the combination of quarterback Pat White and running back Steve Slaton maybe the most talented backfield in the 2006 college football season. The one big test for West Virginia is against Louisville, which will decide not only the Big East title but also will be a key piece to the BCS championship puzzle. The Mountaineers defense will be good enough to shut down the Cardinals and will bring the Big East title back to West Virginia.

2. Louisville- Brian Brohm is a standout quarterback and the offensive cupboard is full of talent to help him bring another winning season to Louisville. Michael Bush is a battering ram at running back, with back up George Stripling providing a quick shot of speed from the backfield. The one thing that will stop the Cardinals from winning the Big East against West Virginia is that their defense is not nearly as prolific as their offense. With West Virginia facing off against Louisville in the beginning of November, they will need their front seven to get better in order to stop a high-powered running attack and short passing game. More important, Pat White could have a big day against an inconsistent Cardinals secondary.

3. South Florida- The Bulls will change from a running team in 2005 to a deep throwing team in 2006, with Carlton Hill slinging it to a young but talented corps of receivers behind an adequate offensive line. The defense will be by far the better unit in South Florida and one of the best in conference, with a great trio of linebackers and a solid secondary that will make big plays against its Big East opponents. The Bulls are a year away from realistically challenging West Virginia and Louisville for the Big East championship.