Silkk
Can't Change My Damn Avi :beli:
Jim Mora doesn't even want to be there, and they can't beat Stanford
The OFFICIAL 2016 College football RANDOM THOUGHTS thread
- Thread starter Ed MOTHERFUCKING G
- Start date
O.iatlhawksfan
Devoted Joel Embiid hater
LSU has so many potiential 1st rounders next year
Godchaux
Jamal Adams
Dupre
Dural(if he comes back)
Fournette
Pocic
Neal
Godchaux
Jamal Adams
Dupre
Dural(if he comes back)
Fournette
Pocic
Neal
Just beat bama, shyt.
Sounds like that good ol' 10-2 type lsu season with losses to Bama and a weird road loss...
*checks schedule*
@arkansas after the alabama game
yeah that sounds about right. Start off 8-0, be in the top 3, lose 2 straight, beat michigan state in the peach or citrus bowl 
Peach Bowl=Semi Final next (this) yearSounds like that good ol' 10-2 type lsu season with losses to LSU and a weird road loss...
*checks schedule*
@arkansas after the alabama game
Hope you can make it
O.iatlhawksfan
Devoted Joel Embiid hater
Y'all not ready for this and this will make a lot of y'all mad but it will be a big debate all offseason
Two SEC team ls can make the playoffs next year
*flame away
Two SEC team ls can make the playoffs next year
*flame away
Silkk
Can't Change My Damn Avi :beli:
Just beat Bama bruhY'all not ready for this and this will make a lot of y'all mad but it will be a big debate all offseason
Two SEC team ls can make the playoffs next year
*flame away
Illin Degenerate
All Star
south carolina only has one returning all sec player and no proven playmakers on offense so im not predicting an sec title, but we will win the east and beat clemson.
PortCityProphet
Follow me to the truth
235 days til the start of the season.
NigerianDonDada
FFOE
1. Clemson (2015 record: 14-1)
The Tigers have a few holes to fill on defense, especially with several would-be senior starters contemplating the NFL draft. There remains enough in place for Clemson to defend its Atlantic Coast Conference title and complete another unbeaten regular season.
2. Alabama (2015 record: 14-1)
Another year, another push for the national title. Alabama will reload across the board, with the only concerns over another competition at quarterback and the change at defensive coordinator from Kirby Smart to Jeremy Pruitt.
3. Michigan (2015 record: 10-3)
Surprised? Don’t be. There’s no reason to think Michigan won’t be capable of making this climb in the follow-up to Harbaugh’s successful debut. Another season in his unique system will yield an even stronger, deeper, tougher and more physical team, and one that will be right in the mix for the national championship.
4. Baylor (2015 record: 10-3)
A spot in the Playoff is just a matter of time for Baylor, which might lose some important pieces on both the offensive and defensive line — led by Spencer Drango and Shawn Oakman — yet will again house the nation’s most dynamic offense. In a crowded top of the Big 12 Conference, the Bears seem the safest bet.
5. Florida State (2015 record: 10-3)
The only great concern for the Seminoles is quarterback play, especially with likely starter Sean Maguire set to miss spring drills following surgery on his injured ankle. With so many other positions loaded with skill and experience, FSU needs a healthy and consistent Maguire to reach its full potential.
6. Ohio State (2015 record: 12-1)
The Buckeyes’ superb recruiting efforts will come in handy for a team set for fairly substantial changes on both sides of the ball. With no unit totally immune from an overhaul, Ohio State will lean on quarterback J.T. Barrett, right guard Pat Elflein, linebacker Raekwon McMillan and defensive end Sam Hubbard to help blend new contributors into the starting lineup.
7. Notre Dame (2015 record: 10-3)
A potential quarterback competition will make headlines, but what makes Notre Damea legitimate title contender is a roster brimming with athleticism. This was on display during this past season, even if the Irish were stymied by injuries. A healthy team could play with any opponent in the country.
8. Oklahoma (2015 record: 11-2)
This year’s leap back into the title mix should carry into 2016, though Oklahoma will undergo a period of transition on the defensive side of the ball. The Sooners will be even more potent on offense, however, meaning a slight decline on defense should be offset by an uptick in scoring production.
9. Stanford (2015 record: 12-2)
The defense will be improved. Rising junior Christian McCaffrey is coming off one of the greatest seasons by a running back in recent history. In all, the Cardinal have the makings of a Playoff contender. But there’s an issue: Stanford is going to have a hard time replacing quarterback Kevin Hogan.
10. LSU (2015 record: 9-3)
Does LSU have a quarterback? If so, the Tigers may be the best team in college football. Yet that’s an annual concern, and one reason why even Leonard Fournette-led LSU may fall short of a Southeastern Conference title and spot in the Playoff field.
11. Houston (2015 record: 13-1)
The top-ranked team among the Group of Five conferences has ample reason for confidence, from the number of returning starters on both sides of the ball through the return of second-year coach Tom Herman, who declined overtures from power programs to make another try at an undefeated season.
12. Tennessee (2015 record: 9-4)
Butch Jones has steadily built the Volunteers into SEC contenders. Whether Tennessee can win more than the league’s East Division may depend on the continued growth of a younger core that still defines the roster. It stands to reason that a move into double-digit wins would mark the next step forward for this program.
13. Michigan State (2015 record: 12-2)
It would be a little surprising to see Michigan State match this season’s Big Ten Conference championship, though it’s never wise to doubt Mark Dantonio and the Spartans. On paper, there’s enough returning talent to remain in the mix for a Playoff berth but too many departed pieces to be considered a leading contender.
14. TCU (2015 record: 11-2)
Like Michigan State, the Horned Frogs must replace a valuable senior quarterback. The team’s offensive system breeds confidence, not to mention elite quarterback play, and Gary Patterson puts forth top-notch defenses on an annual basis. TCU’s combination of scheme and underrated personnel make it a dark-horse option for the Playoff.
15. Oregon (2015 record: 9-4)
Will Montana State transfer Dakota Prukop give Oregon a Vernon Adams-like boost as a one-year quarterback rental? If so, the Ducks — who also will have new coordinators on offense and defense — may very well be the best team in the Pac-12. If not, Oregon will remain a pesky contender for the Rose Bowl but little more.
16. Florida (2015 record: 10-4)
The defense will take a step back after losing a number of key starters, including two all-conference cornerbacks, to the NFL draft. The hope for Florida is increased effectiveness on offense, and there’s reason to believe the Gators will be more explosive in all phases – and in the passing game in particular – with added experience in Jim McElwain’s system.
17. Boise State (2015 record: 9-4)
It would be unwise to count out Boise State in the race for an Playoff’s access-bowl bid, especially with a burgeoning star at quarterback in sophomore Brett Rypien. His growth under center gives the Broncos immense cause for confidence.
18. UCLA (2015 record: 8-5)
Among prototypical pocket-passing quarterbacks, there may be none better than sophomore-to-be Josh Rosen. But Rosen alone isn’t reason to pick UCLA to be more than the best team in the Pac-12 South Division, particularly when given the Bruins’ tendency to come out flat against elite competition under Jim Mora and his staff.
19. Iowa (2015 record: 12-2)
Another unbeaten regular season is too much to ask, but the Hawkeyes will maintain last year’s clip behind quarterback C.J. Beathard, a strong offensive line and a sturdy defense led by All-America cornerback Desmond King. The schedule does get slightly more difficult, unfortunately, with crossover matchups with Penn State and Michigan from the Big Ten East Division.
20. Oklahoma State (2015 record: 10-3)
The lack of a consistent running game is the Cowboys’ largest issue, and perhaps the only overwhelming concern for a team destined for a top-four finish in the Big 12. Can the offense find increased balance? Doing so would go a long way toward moving Oklahoma State up the league’s pecking order.
21. Miami (Fla.) (2015 record: 8-5)
The arrival of Mark Richt inspires hope that Miami will play up to its potential. That was an issue under Richt’s predecessor, Al Golden, but look for the former Georgia coach to find immediate success at his alma mater. It helps to have a quarterback, Brad Kaaya, who rivals Deshaun Watson for the title of the ACC’s best.
22. Mississippi (2015 record: 10-3)
This might be low for a team coming off back-to-back New Year’s Six bowl appearances, but remember: Ole Miss must replace left tackle Laremy Tunsil, defensive tackle Robert Nkemdiche and wide receiver Laquon Treadwell. The Rebels won’t fall of the map by any means, but expecting another season with 10 wins overlooks those losses at three crucial positions.
23. Louisville (2015 record: 8-5)
The ACC Atlantic Division has two clear leaders in Clemson and Florida State, so Louisville should continue to be overlooked nationally. But the Cardinals will be a quiet contender for double-digit wins, thanks in no small part to the projected growth of rising sophomore quarterback Lamar Jackson.
24. Washington (2015 record: 7-6)
This might be one year ahead of schedule for the Huskies, who have compiled an elite crop of underclassmen as the foundation for a conference championship. Those same youngsters — such as quarterback Jake Browning and running back Myles Gaskin — may be ready for prime time, however. If so, Washington is a team to watch.
25. Southern California (2015 record: 8-6)
The talent is there, as always, even if USC must settle on a starting quarterback to replace Cody Kessler. The issue is the schedule, which includes games against Alabama, Stanford, Utah, Oregon, Washington, UCLA and Notre Dame. Eight wins would merit a national ranking, but anything less than a solid weekly effort could spell trouble for the Trojans.
Projecting college football's top 25 teams for 2016
The Tigers have a few holes to fill on defense, especially with several would-be senior starters contemplating the NFL draft. There remains enough in place for Clemson to defend its Atlantic Coast Conference title and complete another unbeaten regular season.
2. Alabama (2015 record: 14-1)
Another year, another push for the national title. Alabama will reload across the board, with the only concerns over another competition at quarterback and the change at defensive coordinator from Kirby Smart to Jeremy Pruitt.
3. Michigan (2015 record: 10-3)
Surprised? Don’t be. There’s no reason to think Michigan won’t be capable of making this climb in the follow-up to Harbaugh’s successful debut. Another season in his unique system will yield an even stronger, deeper, tougher and more physical team, and one that will be right in the mix for the national championship.
4. Baylor (2015 record: 10-3)
A spot in the Playoff is just a matter of time for Baylor, which might lose some important pieces on both the offensive and defensive line — led by Spencer Drango and Shawn Oakman — yet will again house the nation’s most dynamic offense. In a crowded top of the Big 12 Conference, the Bears seem the safest bet.
5. Florida State (2015 record: 10-3)
The only great concern for the Seminoles is quarterback play, especially with likely starter Sean Maguire set to miss spring drills following surgery on his injured ankle. With so many other positions loaded with skill and experience, FSU needs a healthy and consistent Maguire to reach its full potential.
6. Ohio State (2015 record: 12-1)
The Buckeyes’ superb recruiting efforts will come in handy for a team set for fairly substantial changes on both sides of the ball. With no unit totally immune from an overhaul, Ohio State will lean on quarterback J.T. Barrett, right guard Pat Elflein, linebacker Raekwon McMillan and defensive end Sam Hubbard to help blend new contributors into the starting lineup.
7. Notre Dame (2015 record: 10-3)
A potential quarterback competition will make headlines, but what makes Notre Damea legitimate title contender is a roster brimming with athleticism. This was on display during this past season, even if the Irish were stymied by injuries. A healthy team could play with any opponent in the country.
8. Oklahoma (2015 record: 11-2)
This year’s leap back into the title mix should carry into 2016, though Oklahoma will undergo a period of transition on the defensive side of the ball. The Sooners will be even more potent on offense, however, meaning a slight decline on defense should be offset by an uptick in scoring production.
9. Stanford (2015 record: 12-2)
The defense will be improved. Rising junior Christian McCaffrey is coming off one of the greatest seasons by a running back in recent history. In all, the Cardinal have the makings of a Playoff contender. But there’s an issue: Stanford is going to have a hard time replacing quarterback Kevin Hogan.
10. LSU (2015 record: 9-3)
Does LSU have a quarterback? If so, the Tigers may be the best team in college football. Yet that’s an annual concern, and one reason why even Leonard Fournette-led LSU may fall short of a Southeastern Conference title and spot in the Playoff field.
11. Houston (2015 record: 13-1)
The top-ranked team among the Group of Five conferences has ample reason for confidence, from the number of returning starters on both sides of the ball through the return of second-year coach Tom Herman, who declined overtures from power programs to make another try at an undefeated season.
12. Tennessee (2015 record: 9-4)
Butch Jones has steadily built the Volunteers into SEC contenders. Whether Tennessee can win more than the league’s East Division may depend on the continued growth of a younger core that still defines the roster. It stands to reason that a move into double-digit wins would mark the next step forward for this program.
13. Michigan State (2015 record: 12-2)
It would be a little surprising to see Michigan State match this season’s Big Ten Conference championship, though it’s never wise to doubt Mark Dantonio and the Spartans. On paper, there’s enough returning talent to remain in the mix for a Playoff berth but too many departed pieces to be considered a leading contender.
14. TCU (2015 record: 11-2)
Like Michigan State, the Horned Frogs must replace a valuable senior quarterback. The team’s offensive system breeds confidence, not to mention elite quarterback play, and Gary Patterson puts forth top-notch defenses on an annual basis. TCU’s combination of scheme and underrated personnel make it a dark-horse option for the Playoff.
15. Oregon (2015 record: 9-4)
Will Montana State transfer Dakota Prukop give Oregon a Vernon Adams-like boost as a one-year quarterback rental? If so, the Ducks — who also will have new coordinators on offense and defense — may very well be the best team in the Pac-12. If not, Oregon will remain a pesky contender for the Rose Bowl but little more.
16. Florida (2015 record: 10-4)
The defense will take a step back after losing a number of key starters, including two all-conference cornerbacks, to the NFL draft. The hope for Florida is increased effectiveness on offense, and there’s reason to believe the Gators will be more explosive in all phases – and in the passing game in particular – with added experience in Jim McElwain’s system.
17. Boise State (2015 record: 9-4)
It would be unwise to count out Boise State in the race for an Playoff’s access-bowl bid, especially with a burgeoning star at quarterback in sophomore Brett Rypien. His growth under center gives the Broncos immense cause for confidence.
18. UCLA (2015 record: 8-5)
Among prototypical pocket-passing quarterbacks, there may be none better than sophomore-to-be Josh Rosen. But Rosen alone isn’t reason to pick UCLA to be more than the best team in the Pac-12 South Division, particularly when given the Bruins’ tendency to come out flat against elite competition under Jim Mora and his staff.
19. Iowa (2015 record: 12-2)
Another unbeaten regular season is too much to ask, but the Hawkeyes will maintain last year’s clip behind quarterback C.J. Beathard, a strong offensive line and a sturdy defense led by All-America cornerback Desmond King. The schedule does get slightly more difficult, unfortunately, with crossover matchups with Penn State and Michigan from the Big Ten East Division.
20. Oklahoma State (2015 record: 10-3)
The lack of a consistent running game is the Cowboys’ largest issue, and perhaps the only overwhelming concern for a team destined for a top-four finish in the Big 12. Can the offense find increased balance? Doing so would go a long way toward moving Oklahoma State up the league’s pecking order.
21. Miami (Fla.) (2015 record: 8-5)
The arrival of Mark Richt inspires hope that Miami will play up to its potential. That was an issue under Richt’s predecessor, Al Golden, but look for the former Georgia coach to find immediate success at his alma mater. It helps to have a quarterback, Brad Kaaya, who rivals Deshaun Watson for the title of the ACC’s best.
22. Mississippi (2015 record: 10-3)
This might be low for a team coming off back-to-back New Year’s Six bowl appearances, but remember: Ole Miss must replace left tackle Laremy Tunsil, defensive tackle Robert Nkemdiche and wide receiver Laquon Treadwell. The Rebels won’t fall of the map by any means, but expecting another season with 10 wins overlooks those losses at three crucial positions.
23. Louisville (2015 record: 8-5)
The ACC Atlantic Division has two clear leaders in Clemson and Florida State, so Louisville should continue to be overlooked nationally. But the Cardinals will be a quiet contender for double-digit wins, thanks in no small part to the projected growth of rising sophomore quarterback Lamar Jackson.
24. Washington (2015 record: 7-6)
This might be one year ahead of schedule for the Huskies, who have compiled an elite crop of underclassmen as the foundation for a conference championship. Those same youngsters — such as quarterback Jake Browning and running back Myles Gaskin — may be ready for prime time, however. If so, Washington is a team to watch.
25. Southern California (2015 record: 8-6)
The talent is there, as always, even if USC must settle on a starting quarterback to replace Cody Kessler. The issue is the schedule, which includes games against Alabama, Stanford, Utah, Oregon, Washington, UCLA and Notre Dame. Eight wins would merit a national ranking, but anything less than a solid weekly effort could spell trouble for the Trojans.
Projecting college football's top 25 teams for 2016
NigerianDonDada
FFOE
1. Clemson Tigers
2015 record: 14-1, 8-0 ACC
Returning starters: 8 offense, 9 defense, 2 special teams
Key losses: DE Shaq Lawson, G Eric Mac Lain, RT Joe Gore, WR Charone Peake, DT D.J. Reader, LB B.J. Goodson
Outlook: The Tigers look built to last, having won more than 10 games in each of the past five seasons and reaching the College Football Playoff National Championship this past season. The Tigers have to replace a couple of key pieces on both lines of scrimmage, especially All-America defensive end Shaq Lawson, but they had nine new starting linemen in 2015. With quarterback Deshaun Watson coming back, they'll have a chance to reach the playoffs for the second straight season. Clemson's schedule will be more than manageable if it can survive a road game at Florida State.
For more on how the Tigers will look in 2016, check out Clemson's recruiting profile
and ESPN RecruitingNation's class rankings.
2. Alabama Crimson Tide
2015 record: 14-1, 7-1 SEC
Returning starters: 6 offense, 5 defense, 2 special teams
Key losses: QB Jake Coker, C Ryan Kelly, DE Jarran Reed, LB Reggie Ragland, CB Cyrus Jones
Outlook: The Crimson Tide are losing a ton of talent on defense, along with defensive coordinator Kirby Smart, who was named Georgia's coach. But when hasn't Nick Saban reloaded on that side of the ball? He hired former Georgia defensive coordinator Jeremy Pruitt to replace Smart. The bigger question might be whether freshman Blake Barnett is ready to take the controls of the offense in 2016. He may have to do so without Heisman Trophy winner Derrick Henry, who is probably turning pro early. Alabama opens the season against USC in Arlington, Texas, and also plays SEC road games at Ole Miss, Arkansas, Tennessee and LSU.
For more on how the Crimson Tide will look in 2016, check out Alabama's recruiting profile
and ESPN RecruitingNation's class rankings.
3. Baylor Bears
2015 record: 10-3, 6-3 Big 12
Returning starters: 5 offense, 6 defense, 2 special teams
Key losses: WR Corey Coleman, OT Spencer Drango, DE Shawn Oakman, LB Grant Campbell, DE Jamal Palmer, CB Xavien Howard
Outlook: The Bears will have to replace much of their offense this coming season; four starting linemen are leaving and star receiver Corey Coleman is turning pro. Baylor coach Art Briles proved once again in 2015 that he'll find ways to move the ball and score points, no matter the circumstances. Quarterbacks Seth Russell (neck) and Jarrett Stidham (ankle) should be back from injuries, along with tailback Shock Linwood (foot). On defense, the Bears might lose all four starting linemen if junior nose tackle Andrew Billings turns pro. Once again, Baylor's nonconference schedule isn't demanding, but the Bears will have to survive a Big 12 road game at Oklahoma.
For more on how the Bears will look in 2016, check out Baylor's recruiting profile
and ESPN RecruitingNation's class rankings.
4. Michigan Wolverines
2015 record: 10-3, 6-2 Big Ten
Returning starters: 8 offense, 7 defense, 1 special teams
Key losses: C Graham Glasgow, QB Jake Rudock, LB Desmond Morgan, LB Joe Bolden, LB James Ross, FS Jarrod Wilson
Outlook: After a five-win improvement in Jim Harbaugh's first season at his alma mater, the Wolverines might be the team to beat in the Big Ten in 2016. Michigan will bring back almost everybody on offense, although losing quarterback Jake Rudock and center Graham Glasgow is significant. Houston transfer John O'Korn might be the top candidate to replace Rudock. Defensively, Michigan will have to replace its entire linebacker corps, but its defensive line figures to be one of the country's best. New defensive coordinator Don Brown led one of the stingiest defenses in the FBS at Boston College this past season. Michigan plays eight home games this coming season, but three of its road games -- at Michigan State, Iowa and Ohio State -- should be tough.
For more on how the Wolverines will look in 2016, check out Michigan's recruiting profile
and ESPN RecruitingNation's class rankings.
5. Oklahoma Sooners
2015 record: 11-2, 8-1 Big 12
Returning starters: 7 offense, 7 defense, 2 special teams
Key losses: WR Sterling Shepard, C Ty Darlington, LB/DE Eric Striker, DE Charles Tapper, CB Zack Sanchez, LB Dominique Alexander
Outlook: The Sooners recovered from a disappointing 8-5 campaign in 2014 by winning the Big 12 and reaching the College Football Playoff this past season. They'll lose some firepower and leadership on defense, especially Striker, who was the team's emotional leader and best pass-rusher. With quarterback Baker Mayfield and tailbacks Samaje Perine and Joe Mixon coming back, the Sooners should again be explosive. Their nonconference schedule is daunting with a road trip to Houston and a home game against Ohio State.
For more on how the Sooners will look in 2016, check out Oklahoma's recruiting profile
and ESPN RecruitingNation's class rankings.
2015 record: 14-1, 8-0 ACC
Returning starters: 8 offense, 9 defense, 2 special teams
Key losses: DE Shaq Lawson, G Eric Mac Lain, RT Joe Gore, WR Charone Peake, DT D.J. Reader, LB B.J. Goodson
Outlook: The Tigers look built to last, having won more than 10 games in each of the past five seasons and reaching the College Football Playoff National Championship this past season. The Tigers have to replace a couple of key pieces on both lines of scrimmage, especially All-America defensive end Shaq Lawson, but they had nine new starting linemen in 2015. With quarterback Deshaun Watson coming back, they'll have a chance to reach the playoffs for the second straight season. Clemson's schedule will be more than manageable if it can survive a road game at Florida State.
For more on how the Tigers will look in 2016, check out Clemson's recruiting profile
and ESPN RecruitingNation's class rankings.2. Alabama Crimson Tide
2015 record: 14-1, 7-1 SEC
Returning starters: 6 offense, 5 defense, 2 special teams
Key losses: QB Jake Coker, C Ryan Kelly, DE Jarran Reed, LB Reggie Ragland, CB Cyrus Jones
Outlook: The Crimson Tide are losing a ton of talent on defense, along with defensive coordinator Kirby Smart, who was named Georgia's coach. But when hasn't Nick Saban reloaded on that side of the ball? He hired former Georgia defensive coordinator Jeremy Pruitt to replace Smart. The bigger question might be whether freshman Blake Barnett is ready to take the controls of the offense in 2016. He may have to do so without Heisman Trophy winner Derrick Henry, who is probably turning pro early. Alabama opens the season against USC in Arlington, Texas, and also plays SEC road games at Ole Miss, Arkansas, Tennessee and LSU.
For more on how the Crimson Tide will look in 2016, check out Alabama's recruiting profile
and ESPN RecruitingNation's class rankings.3. Baylor Bears
2015 record: 10-3, 6-3 Big 12
Returning starters: 5 offense, 6 defense, 2 special teams
Key losses: WR Corey Coleman, OT Spencer Drango, DE Shawn Oakman, LB Grant Campbell, DE Jamal Palmer, CB Xavien Howard
Outlook: The Bears will have to replace much of their offense this coming season; four starting linemen are leaving and star receiver Corey Coleman is turning pro. Baylor coach Art Briles proved once again in 2015 that he'll find ways to move the ball and score points, no matter the circumstances. Quarterbacks Seth Russell (neck) and Jarrett Stidham (ankle) should be back from injuries, along with tailback Shock Linwood (foot). On defense, the Bears might lose all four starting linemen if junior nose tackle Andrew Billings turns pro. Once again, Baylor's nonconference schedule isn't demanding, but the Bears will have to survive a Big 12 road game at Oklahoma.
For more on how the Bears will look in 2016, check out Baylor's recruiting profile
and ESPN RecruitingNation's class rankings.4. Michigan Wolverines
2015 record: 10-3, 6-2 Big Ten
Returning starters: 8 offense, 7 defense, 1 special teams
Key losses: C Graham Glasgow, QB Jake Rudock, LB Desmond Morgan, LB Joe Bolden, LB James Ross, FS Jarrod Wilson
Outlook: After a five-win improvement in Jim Harbaugh's first season at his alma mater, the Wolverines might be the team to beat in the Big Ten in 2016. Michigan will bring back almost everybody on offense, although losing quarterback Jake Rudock and center Graham Glasgow is significant. Houston transfer John O'Korn might be the top candidate to replace Rudock. Defensively, Michigan will have to replace its entire linebacker corps, but its defensive line figures to be one of the country's best. New defensive coordinator Don Brown led one of the stingiest defenses in the FBS at Boston College this past season. Michigan plays eight home games this coming season, but three of its road games -- at Michigan State, Iowa and Ohio State -- should be tough.
For more on how the Wolverines will look in 2016, check out Michigan's recruiting profile
and ESPN RecruitingNation's class rankings.5. Oklahoma Sooners
2015 record: 11-2, 8-1 Big 12
Returning starters: 7 offense, 7 defense, 2 special teams
Key losses: WR Sterling Shepard, C Ty Darlington, LB/DE Eric Striker, DE Charles Tapper, CB Zack Sanchez, LB Dominique Alexander
Outlook: The Sooners recovered from a disappointing 8-5 campaign in 2014 by winning the Big 12 and reaching the College Football Playoff this past season. They'll lose some firepower and leadership on defense, especially Striker, who was the team's emotional leader and best pass-rusher. With quarterback Baker Mayfield and tailbacks Samaje Perine and Joe Mixon coming back, the Sooners should again be explosive. Their nonconference schedule is daunting with a road trip to Houston and a home game against Ohio State.
For more on how the Sooners will look in 2016, check out Oklahoma's recruiting profile
and ESPN RecruitingNation's class rankings.
