ESPN College Football

2011 overall record: 10-3
2011 conference record: 5-2 (T-1)
Returning starters: Offense 4; defense 8; kicker/punter: 2

Key returners
WR Kenbrell Thompkins, QB Munchie Legaux, WR Anthony McClung, DE Walter Stewart, DE Dan Giordano, S Drew Frey, LB Maalik Bomar

Key losses
QB Zach Collaros, RB Isaiah Pead, LB JK Schaffer, DT Derek Wolfe, DT John Hughes, WR D.J. Woods, LT Alex Hoffman, LG Randy Martinez

2011 statistical leaders (*returners)

Rushing: Isaiah Pead (1,259 yards)
Passing: Zach Collaros (166-of-272 for 1,940 yards, 15 TDs, 10 INTs)
Receiving: Anthony McClung* (683 yards)
Tackles: JK Schaffer (114)
Sacks: Derek Wolfe (9.5)
Interceptions: Three with three each

Spring answers

1. Middle linebacker: One of the biggest holes for the Bearcats this spring was at middle linebacker, where JK Schaffer had more than 100 tackles in each of the past three seasons. After spring ended, Solomon Tentman was penciled in as the starter, after playing sparingly in his time on campus. The reason -- a major knee injury that threatened to end his career before it really started. But Tentman fought back with hard work and determination and is one of the surprise stories of the spring.

2. Inside presence: Cincinnati lost some major beef in the middle of its line, with the departures of John Hughes and Derek Wolfe, both high NFL draft picks last month. But as expected, Camaron Beard and Jordan Stepp had good springs and leave as the starters at tackle. The hope is that their athleticism will help make up for their smaller size.

3. Walter Stewart emerges as leader: Coach Butch Jones singled Stewart out not only for his exemplary play this spring, but also for his growth as a leader. Cincinnati is definitely going to need the leadership after losing so many key seniors from its Big East championship team.

Fall questions

1. Quarterback: Coach Butch Jones isn't ready to name his starter yet, though Munchie Legaux filled in for an injured Zach Collaros in three starts last season. Jones says Brandon Kay has really pushed Legaux this spring, and wants the competition between them to remain open into the offseason. Legaux has got to work on his accuracy and chemistry with his receivers in order to take the next step.

2. Receiver depth: One of the biggest areas of concern headed into the offseason is at receiver, where Cincinnati is in need of a number of players to step up. Receiver was one position where Cincinnati underachieved last season. Kenbrell Thompkins, Anthony McClung and Alex Chisum all have great potential, and so does the recently-converted Jordan Luallen. But given this offense, Cincinnati needs more than just four receivers to be playmakers.

3. Secondary depth: This has been one area that has been a concern for several years now. While Cincinnati does have several experienced players returning, Jones listed depth at this position as one area he wants to see improved throughout the offseason. Cincinnati had several players sit out spring drills because of injury, so that also was a factor.

I had a chance to catch up with Cincinnati coach Butch Jones on Tuesday, with the Bearcats having wrapped up spring practice. Here are a few notes from our conversation.

• Jones is not yet ready to name a starting quarterback, leaving the competition between Munchie Legaux and Brendon Kay ongoing through the summer. "The big thing is an overall level of consistency that we're searching for," Jones said. "Both are a little bit different in their games, but the thing that we're searching for is the individual who can manage the offense with great efficiency, take care of the football, who is a coach on the field. A lot of great quarterback play is a lot like being a great point guard in basketball, knowing how to distribute the ball, identifying matchups and taking care of the football. It's the small details. I've been really encouraged by both individuals. They've shown tremendous work ethic, and great poise. The competition has made them both better."
• The players Jones noted who really stepped up their games this spring: defensive linemen Walter Stewart, Dan Giordano and Jordan Stepp; running backs George Winn and Jameel Poteat; receiver Kenbrell Thompkins; and offensive lineman Eric Lefeld. Watch for Stewart to emerge as the new leader on defense.
• Receiver is still an area with big questions. Thompkins and Alex Chisum both had nice springs, but depth is a concern. Anthony McClung was limited with an injury, while Dyjuan Lewis got hurt early in the spring and will not be back in time for fall practice. Lewis suffered a Lisfranc injury to his foot while going up for a ball and landing awkwardly. Jordan Luallen, making the transition to receiver, also was limited during the spring with an injury, though he returned for the final two practices. Jones expects to rely on him in the passing game, and needs Max Morrison, Chris Moore and Shaq Washington to have very productive summers.
• Cincinnati also was missing a few offensive linemen this spring because of injury, including starter Austen Bujnoch. Cory Keebler was also limited. But that gave other players valuable reps. Jones feels good about Dan Sprague at center. Sean Hooey returned and got extensive reps, and Jones also liked the way Kevin Schloemer practiced as well.
• On defense, Solomon Tentman has garnered some attention with his incredible return from a devastating knee injury. But Jones noted that Tentman is not even at 100 percent. Jones also praised Greg Blair and Nick Temple, who will be relied on both in the middle and on the outside at linebacker. "We are going to ask a lot of Nick," Jones said. "He has to be a rock of stability for us."
• The secondary looks to be the most experienced position in terms of number of starts, though veterans Deven Drane and Dominique Battle both sat out with injuries. That gave Trenier Orr valuable reps, and Arryn Chenault has emerged at safety next to Drew Frey.
• So what are the major question marks left? "It is the overall depth and continuity on the offensive line, that still remains an area of concern," Jones said. "I think again, depth at receiver, young individuals having to step up. Overall the middle of our defense, at defensive tackle, linebacker and the safety position as well."
• One other injury to note: defensive lineman Roney Lozano got hurt this spring and is not expected to return until the middle of the season.

Every team has plenty to do in the offseason. Today, I present to you my top priorities for each Big East program headed into the 2012 season.

Cincinnati

• Settle on a quarterback. If 2011 was any indication, then Munchie Legaux seems a sure bet to start next season. He showed flashes, but he needs to spend the bulk of his offseason developing a nice rhythm and chemistry with his receivers. That was one of the biggest roadblocks for him when he took over for Zach Collaros. Cincinnati has some good talent at receiver -- with Anthony McClung, Kenbrell Thompkins and Alex Chisum coming back -- so this must be a top priority.
• Develop senior leadership. The Bearcats are losing the best senior class in school history, filled with leaders left and right. With guys such as Collaros, Isaiah Pead and JK Schaffer gone, who is going to take the responsibility of leading this team? That is something that must be worked on throughout the offseason.

UConn

• Find a quarterback. Sounds the same as last season, right? The Huskies never really found one in 2011 and that is a big reason why they struggled. Spring practice has the potential to have five different quarterbacks taking reps in Johnny McEntee, Scott McCummings, Michael Nebrich, Chandler Whitmer and Casey Cochran. Somebody has to emerge to take a hold of this offense.
• Work on improving the secondary. The weakest part of this team last season ranked No. 113 in the nation, so this is a clear area that has to get better. The Huskies were hurt when starting cornerback Blidi Wreh-Wilson missed a good chunk of the season with a knee injury, and they also had to rely on freshmen in Byron Jones and Ty-Meer Brown. This group will be much more experienced, so you have to hope they will be much better, too.

Louisville

• Mature. The Cardinals were one of the youngest teams in the nation last season, and their immaturity showed at times. But now they enter the offseason with exceedingly high expectations. Many preseason lists have them ranked in the Top 25 and challenging for the Big East title. This team will still be young in 2012, so it will be imperative for coach Charlie Strong to help get this group to mature quickly and stay focused.
• Work on the run game. Strong wants the run game to be the bread-and-butter of the offense, and this was an area that took a step back in 2011 with Bilal Powell gone. Louisville went from being ranked No. 1 in the Big East to No. 5 in the Big East, averaging 121.5 yards per game. That is down over 50 yards per game. Dominique Brown and Jeremy Wright are back, but they have to be consistent and the Cardinals probably need somebody else to emerge.

Pitt

• New identity. A new coach means a new identity, so it will be interesting to see how the Panthers look under Paul Chryst and his new staff. We will find out when spring practice opens in March. There is plenty of talent on the roster, but the big question is how will the talent be utilized?
• Is Tino the man? This is starting to sound like a trend, right? The Panthers have quarterback issues as well after Tino Sunseri had a season to forget. Much of his performance can probably be laid at the feet of former coach Todd Graham, who stubbornly tried to run an offensive system that was not suited for the players he had. You can be sure Chryst will open up the quarterback competition to see who emerges.

Rutgers

• Handle expectations. The Scarlet Knights have not been so good in the past when the pressure is on. All you have to do is look back at what happened this season, with a shot to win a share of the Big East title. Now they are getting some preseason love and probably have their best team since 2006. So coach Greg Schiano is going to have to do a good job of managing preparation and focus because expectations were raised off a successful 2011 campaign.
• Quarterback derby. Yet another Big East team with a quarterback question mark. Chas Dodd and Gary Nova ended up splitting the starts this past season. Now there is the possibility that former quarterback Tom Savage transfers back in. I don't know if Schiano can afford to keep playing musical chairs with his quarterbacks every season.

USF

• Re-focus. The Bulls have to put 2011 behind them and focus on the future. This is still a team that has the talent to win. Coach Skip Holtz has to find a way to get that done. This is going to be a veteran team that has been through good times and bad. He needs leaders who will their teammates to victory, who know how to win close games and are determined to get this team back on top. Who are they?
• New defense. USF brings in new defensive coordinator Chris Cosh from Kansas State, its third different coordinator in the past four years. Getting the players adapted to his scheme as soon as possible has to be a point of emphasis in the spring and throughout the offseason.

Syracuse

• More offensive consistency. To be sure, Ryan Nassib and Alec Lemon both had career years and made strides for the Orange. But a lot of that was because the run game was inconsistent, and Syracuse found itself trailing late in several games. This team has to find a way to sustain drives and score -- Syracuse was No. 7 in the Big East in scoring offense (24.2 ppg).
• Shore up the defense. The Orange lose some of their best players on the defensive line, and have to get better in the secondary, which was a major problem for most of the year. Syracuse ranked No. 98 in the nation in pass defense, and they lose some key contributors. Shamarko Thomas is really going to have to step up and take control of this group.

West Virginia

• Big 12 or Big East? The Mountaineers are bent on leaving for the Big 12, regardless of any court outcomes. On-field issues have nothing on trying to figure out where you are going to be playing. And who you are going to be playing.
• Defense. Coach Dana Holgorsen has hired a few defensive assistants, but still no word yet on who is going to run the show. That, of course, will determine the future course of this defense. It appears an inevitability that they will no longer use the 3-3-5 that former coordinator Jeff Casteel ran. Plus, players such as Keith Tandy, Najee Goode, Bruce Irvin and Julian Miller are gone. Shoring up this unit has to be tops on Holgorsen's list.

If you missed it, here is Part I of my interview with Cincinnati coach Butch Jones. Today, Jones goes over some of the key questions headed into spring practice, which begins March 1.

Did you allow yourself any time to enjoy the season after the bowl win or did you rush into preparations for 2012?

BJ: We started working on 2012 during bowl prep. We wanted to finish, but were also were getting ready for the future. We stayed after in Memphis so we could enjoy the win, took a day and then we were full-fledged onto 2012. That's the thing in our profession -- you can never sit back. I thought we did some great things with bowl prep. We had our seniors meet with the junior class and talk about leadership and the things they learned.

So on to the future, what happens at the quarterback spot? Munchie Legaux and Jordan Luallen got playing time this year, so they have to be the leaders, right?

BJ: They're going to have to earn that position every day. The exciting thing is with all the youth that we have and the competition that we have, there's already a renewed spirit, there’s a renewed commitment, there's excitement and energy in our football program. That's not just with the quarterback spot. I can feel that excitement already. I think the experience that Munchie gained and Jordan gained will prove to be extremely beneficial as we move forward. But it’s also exciting because of Patrick Coyne, Brendon Kay. Throw in two youngsters who graduated high school early -- to have them here already is going to pay huge dividends as well.

What do you think when people think 2012 will be a rebuilding year? I’ve written it myself.

BJ: All we can control is ourselves -- continuing to build our football program, and not paying attention. You look at last year -- I have it sitting on my desk -- you look at preseason rankings in the Big East conference and you look at the positions. Every single one of our defensive positions was ranked 7 or 8 in our conference. The thing we have to do is focus on being a better football team. It's what you sign your name to -- it's that excellence we talk about. I don't get caught up in the outside world because I know what we have, our players know what we have. We talk about not building a team but a program, and I think we have proven across the country we are a football program. So we just have to control what we can control, our daily work ethic, how we go to class, every individual taking accountability. There's a lot of excitement here in the community and in our football program. I think change is good, change keeps people on their toes. There's a lot of competition, our junior class that are now seniors they understand the responsibility that it is in our football program. There's a great spirit right now.

Where do you think is your biggest area of strength going into 2012?

BJ: Well, we won a lot of games on special teams this year. You look at starting season with an unproven kicker, Tony (Miliano) has a lot of room for improvement, but he also made big kicks for us, Pat O’Donnell returns as well. In our secondary, those individuals have gained a ton of experience, Deven Drane continued to get better as the season progressed, along with Cam Cheatham. Now we have Trenier Orr, whom we’re high on, so we’re going to have a high level of competition. We get Dominique Battle back. You look at our defensive end position with Walter Stewart and Brandon Mills, Dan Giordano so that and then I expect our receiving corps to be much better with Anthony McClung, Kenbrell Thompkins, Alex Chisum and the experience they gained. Also, I thought our tight ends really made some big plays for us. We’re going to miss Adrien Robinson, but that's a position that could be pretty strong as well.

How about at running back? You seem to have a lot of depth there when it comes to trying to replace Isaiah Pead.

BJ: I don't know if you just replace a great back like Isaiah. He meant so much to us but that's probably one of the most competitive spots that we'll have in our football program. When you look at Ralph David Abernathy and what he brings to the table, that big kickoff return (against Vanderbilt), Jameel Poteat, Akise Teague, George Winn. And if we’re able to maintain a couple in the recruitment process, I think that's going to be a very, very competitive position as we move forward and we'll see how it goes. The mark of great coaches is they're able to adapt each and every year for their strengths and weaknesses so we have to do a great job of playing to our strength. Each team have a different personality. We just have to do a great job of putting our schemes in and allowing players to be successful in what they can do.

Let us take a look back at Week 4:

The good: Cincinnati forced three more turnovers in a 44-14 win against NC State last Thursday night. That brings its nation-leading total to 16 takeways. But maybe even better -- the defensive line had its best performance of the season with six sacks and 12 tackles for loss. The defense held NC State to minus-26 yards rushing, the third-lowest rushing total in school history and the fewest since allowing minus-37 yards to Wichita State in 1974. ... You already know what a tremendous performance Rutgers receiver Mohamed Sanu had against Ohio. But a little overlooked was its performance on third down. Rutgers converted 11 of 18 third-down attempts (61.1 percent) against an Ohio defense that had held its previous opponents to 33.3 percent on third down. Greg Schiano might have not liked being in 18 third downs, but when you convert at that clip, you take it. ... Connecticut has held its opponent to three points in each of its two wins. ... USF had three scoring plays of 50 yards or more in the win against UTEP. Last season, the Bulls had three 50-yard scoring plays. Total.

The bad: Big East officiating had a bad weekend, after the league admitted its officials blew a call in the Syracuse-Toledo game that impacted the outcome. An extra point from Ross Krautman appeared to go wide, but it was called good on the field. That call was upheld on review. The point gave Syracuse a 30-27 lead late in the game. Toledo tied it with a field goal to send the contest into overtime. But the league now says the extra point was no good. Had that point come off the board, Syracuse would have led by 2 and not 3, giving Toledo a chance to win rather than tie. ... West Virginia allowed a 99-yard kickoff return for a touchdown against LSU after cutting the deficit to six. That was the start of 21 unanswered points for the Tigers in a 47-21 win. The Mountaineers added four turnovers after committing three in the first three games combined. The 47 points were the most West Virginia has given up since losing 48-22 to Virginia in the Continental Tire Bowl in 2002. ... Pitt was held to just 268 yards of total offense in its 15-12 loss to Notre Dame.

Stat sheet:

• West Virginia receiver Tavon Austin had 11 receptions for 187 yards, and receiver Stedman Bailey had eight catches for 115
  yards against LSU. It was the second straight game in which West Virginia had multiple 100-yard receivers.
• Quarterback Geno Smith had school records for completions (38), attempts (65) and passing yards (463) yards against LSU. He finished with 468 total yards of offense, a program single-game record.
• UConn quarterback Johnny McEntee threw the first two touchdown passes of his career against Buffalo.
• Pitt has not allowed a point in the first quarter this season.
• Syracuse quarterback Ryan Nassib leads the Big East in completion percentage (71.4).
• Syracuse receiver Van Chew now has 1,012 career receiving yards.
• Cincinnati receivers Anthony McClung (94) and Kenbrell Thompkins (72) set career highs for yards.
• Syracuse running back Prince-Tyson Gulley had carrer highs with 10 carries and 66 yards.
• Sanu set school and Big East records with 16 receptions for 176 yards.

Week 5 schedule
USF at Pitt, Thursday, 8 p.m., ESPN
Rutgers at Syracuse, Saturday, noon, Big East Network
Cincinnati at Miami (Ohio), Saturday, 1 p.m., ESPN3
Western Michigan at UConn, Saturday 3:30 p.m., Big East Network
Marshall at Louisville, Saturday, 3:30 p.m., Big East Network
Bowling Green at West Virginia, Saturday, 3:30 p.m., Big East Network

Enjoy your links ...

• There are minor changes to the depth chart for UConn.
• Kenbrell Thompkins transfers his talents to Cincinnati. Tennessee coach Derek Dooley is worried about how to stop Cincinnati's offense.
• Louisville can't afford to look past FIU to the Kentucky game.
• Todd Graham believes his team's mistakes can be easily corrected. Ray Graham shined in the opener.
• Rutgers has to slow down North Carolina quarterback Bryn Renner. Guard Desmond Wynn is doubtful. The North Carolina game is a litmus test for the Scarlet Knights.
• Syracuse defensive end Chandler Jones is one of three players being evaluated for an injury. Lots of young players got playing time against Wake Forest last week.
• Former USF coach Jim Leavitt gives his thoughts on the passing of Lee Roy Selmon. Funeral services will be held Friday.
• The offense played well in Dana Holgorsen's debut at West Virginia. Holgorsen came to the defense of his offensive line. The West Virginia defense played well.
• Athlon Sports released its Big East power rankings. Looks familiar. Rick Bozich of the Louisville Courier-Journal writes the Big East must think basketball first.

Here are some news and notes from the Big East coaches following their teleconference Monday:

Cincinnati

• Coach Butch Jones said he was pleased with the way his team performed in a 72-10 win over Austin Peay, especially with the five turnovers it created. The Bearcats were minus-15 last season in turnover margin, so it was good for Jones to see some of the word they concentrated on during the offseason pay off.
• He was also asked about receiver Kenbrell Thompkins, who was a Tennessee signee before going the junior college route and ending up at Cincinnati. The Bearcats play at Tennessee on Saturday. "I don't think this football game is any bigger than any other game he'll play in," Jones said.

Connecticut

• Coach Paul Pasqualoni said running back D.J. Shoemate was day to day, but he was optimistic he would be able to play at Vanderbilt on Saturday. Shoemate was held out of last weekend's game against Fordham with a sprained ankle. Defensive end Jesse Joseph is not expected back.
• Much was made about the way the Huskies played three quarterbacks against Fordham. But the defense turned in a nice showing, getting pressure on the quarterback and holding Fordham to three points. New starting linebackers Yawin Smallwood and Jory Johnson did well, and Teddy Jennings held his own in replacing Joseph. "They had one very nice run, but other than that I thought we did well against the run, and that was a major objective going into the game, and we collapsed the pocket," Pasqualoni said.

Louisville

• Quarterback Will Stein is in a walking boot to protect a sprained ankle, but coach Charlie Strong said he will play against FIU. Center Mario Benavides and defensive end B.J. Butler are out. Defensive tackle Brandon Dunn is questionable. Defensive end Greg Scruggs, who had limited snaps last week, will play, Strong said.
• On the way Stein played against Murray State: "He is a player that is not afraid to take chances, he can scramble and his feet help him get out of trouble," Strong said. Freshman Teddy Bridgewater only had one series, but he is expected to play against FIU.

Pitt

• The Panthers ran 43 offensive plays against Buffalo but only had seven points in the first half. Much has been made about some of the inconsistency on the offense, but Todd Graham said his players were a little too amped up at the start of the game. Offensive lineman Jordan Gibbs hyperventilated and had to miss a quarter. "I thought there's some things we can do better," Graham said. "But we came away after watching the film very positive. Any time you come away and score 35 points and feel bad about it and you get a win, you're doing well."
• Graham said the offense averaged about 16-17 seconds between plays on offense, which is about what he expects in the hurry-up style.

Rutgers

• Coach Greg Schiano said the North Carolina defense reminds him of the personnel he had at Miami in 1999 and 2000, when he served as defensive coordinator under Butch Davis.
• Schiano has spoken with Davis, who was fired at North Carolina days before training camp started. "Butch is a tough guy," Schiano said. "He's been through a lot. He's a man of character. His faith will carry him through this." When asked how Davis was holding up, he said, "Like any of us would feel, he built a tremendous program there at North Carolina. It got snatched from right under him four weeks before the season. I can't imagine how difficult that is."

Syracuse

• Coach Doug Marrone said some of the big plays his team allowed early against Wake Forest were the result of miscommunication, with new players in the game and others getting hurt. But he was really happy with the way it stepped up in the red zone. "They were able to hit us on some big plays early on, but our red zone defense was outstanding," he said. "When it got in there real tight, we gave up one touchdown in the red zone out of six attempts."
• As for the way his offense struggled early in the game, Marrone said much of that was because of pregame preparations. Syracuse was anticipating more of a zone look, but that was not what the Orange saw.

USF

• It has been a bittersweet time for the Bulls. They beat Notre Dame 23-20 on Saturday, but came back to the news that visionary leader Lee Roy Selmon had died after suffering a stroke. "It was a real blow and a very somber day yesterday," Holtz said. "When you look back at the game on Saturday, it was just the opposite."
• He also said the team had plenty of room for improvement. He liked how B.J. Daniels managed the game, but believes his quarterback can play much better. The same for his defense, which gave up 508 yards.

West Virginia

• Running back Andrew Buie took a shot in the game against Marshall and his status for this weekend's game is up in the air. The same goes for running back Trey Johnson, who also missed the Marshall game because of injury.
• As for the way his offensive line played, coach Dana Holgorsen said they were OK. He mentioned Marshall did a few things West Virginia had not seen on tape, so that caused a few problems early in the game. As for some of the inconsistency on offense, Holgorsen said, "We didn't do a great job at taking what they were giving us. We tried a little bit too hard to make big plays where it's all about putting the ball in play. Way too many negative plays. Give Marshall credit for that. They did some things defensively that got to us that we weren't anticipating."

The Cincinnati-Austin Peay game ended while I was gathering video and quotes from the USF-Notre Dame game. As expected, the Bearcats had little trouble with their FCS opponent, winning 72-10.

Zach Collaros threw four first-half touchdown passes. The Bearcats were able to get their reserves into the game for the second half, which was great because they all got much needed experience. Both Munchie Legaux and Jordan Luallen played in relief of Collaros. Each scored on touchdown runs.

Other notable freshmen who got some playing time: running backs Akise Teague (who also scored), Ralph David Abernathy IV and Jameel Poteat, and receivers Shaq Washington and Alex Chisum. Kenbrell Thompkins also scored his first career touchdown for the Bearcats.

Cincinnati is off and running in its game against Austin Peay. Specifically, Isaiah Pead is off and running.

Pead has 77 yards and two touchdowns, including a 40-yarder for the first score of the game. Zach Collaros just threw a 13-yard touchdown pass to Kenbrell Thompkins and the Bearcats have an early 20-0 lead. None of this comes as a major surprise. Pead is one of the best running backs in the league, and Austin Peay is an overmatched opponent.

We can probably expect to see plenty of the backups in this one. It will be good to see how backup quarterbacks Munchie Legaux and Jordan Luallen run the offense should they enter the game later.

Nothing like being perfect ...

• Cincinnati coach Butch Jones is eager to see what Kenbrell Thompkins can do. Walter Stewart hopes to help the pass rush.
• UConn kicker Dave Teggart is ready to show grace under pressure. Punter Cole Wagner has some tricks up his sleeve.
• Louisville struggles for the win. The defense delivered. The Cardinals picked up a commitment from linebacker Patrick Jean out of Port St. Lucie, Fla.
• Lucas Nix and Chris Jacobson are becoming leaders at Pitt. Andrew Taglianetti's rep for fearlessness has not gone unnoticed.
• The Rutgers defense delivered an impressive performance, but it was only a starting point. Scott Vallone keyed the defensive outburst. The offensive line passed its first test.
• Syracuse's comeback against Wake Forest was simply stunning. The good, the bad and the other stuff about the game. What do those fans who left the game early think now? The Syracuse defense came through when it was needed the most.
• Great read from Martin Fennelly of The Tampa Tribune on USF coach Skip Holtz being an inspiration to "Rudy." The offense might click better in Year 2 under Holtz.
• The jury is still out on the strength of the West Virginia backfield. Extend the Coal Bowl series. Geno Smith's running days are over. Jorge Wright is moving forward.

Most teams took Sunday off from practice, so here is a quick weekend roundup with scrimmage information from several teams.

Cincinnati: The Bearcats are still looking for more consistency out of their receivers. Coach Butch Jones said, "We still need to get tougher, and fight through some adversity things. The big thing is mental conditioning, mental toughness, and overall execution. We are still searching to find a receiving corps that’s consistent day in and day out."

D.J. Woods is the leader among that group, but there is a lot of young talent hoping to contribute, including Kenbrell Thompkins, Anthony McClung, Damon Julian, Dyjuan Lewis, Alex Chisum, Shaq Washington, Ralph David Abernathy IV and Chris Moore.

Connecticut: Coach Paul Pasqualoni hopes to have middle linebacker Jerome Williams back in October. Williams hurt his knee in the spring but has yet to recover. ... There still no decision at quarterback after a scrimmage Thursday.

Louisville: Jeremy Wright had several nifty runs in the team's scrimmage Saturday, while tight end Chris White led the team in receiving -- including a 70-yard touchdown pass from Will Stein. Linebackers Daniel Brown and Dexter Heyman were the playmakers on defense.

Pitt: Coach Todd Graham has been encouraged with the way the offense has taken to playing hurry up. So far in fall practice, they have been snapping the ball 17 seconds after a play ends, down from 22 in the spring. Graham wants that number down to 10 to 12 seconds. He also had high praise for Zach Brown, who has shaken off the rust from the first few practices. He believes Brown and Ray Graham could be a dynamic duo.

Rutgers: True freshman Savon Huggins had a smashing debut in Rutgers' first scrimmage Saturday, rushing for 168 yards on 26 carries -- including a 52-yard touchdown run. Among other notable stats: Quarterback Chas Dodd went 12-of-27 for 250 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions. Tim Wright, coming off a knee injury, had four catches for 45 yards and two touchdowns. Running backs Jawan Jamison and Jeremy Deering sat out, along with defensive end Manny Abreu.

Syracuse: The injury bug hit the Orange once again over the weekend. Sophomore offensive tackle Sean Hickey will miss the 2011 season after tearing his ACL and lateral meniscus. Hickey did not play in any games last season. Three other offensive linemen already are out of practice -- Nick Lepak (concussion), Ian Allport (concussion) and Jarel Lowery (knee). Hickey was expected to push for playing time.

USF: The Bulls ran about 100 plays in their first scrimmage Saturday. Quarterback B.J. Daniels was held out to rest his hamstring injury, and the second and third teams took the majority of the reps. Bobby Eveld went 12-for-20 for 150 yards, while true freshman Matt Floyd went 18-for-25 for 161 yards, including a 41-yard touchdown to Deonte Welch. True freshman Elkino Watson also had a nice day with five tackles for loss and two sacks.

West Virginia: Coach Dana Holgorsen singled out running backs Dustin Garrison and Andrew Buie once again after practice Saturday, saying they were the two freshmen who have stood out the most so far in practice.

The final two Big East teams kick off practice today. Let's check out a few burning questions:

Cincinnati

1. How much better will the defense be this season? JK Schaffer gave me a very convincing argument about why the Bearcats will be better on defense this season. They were one of the youngest units in college football last season, so surely another year of experience is going to make a huge difference. They are more familiar with the defensive system, so everyone knows what they are doing. They know they have to cut down on big plays; they made some personnel moves that are going to help; and it does not hurt to use what happened last season as a bit of extra motivation on the field. Now we just have to sit back and wait to see what happens.

2. Impact newcomers. Word out of Cincinnati is that Akise Teague and Jameel Poteat have looked terrific during the summer, giving the Bearcats a wealth of riches at running back with Isaiah Pead returning. Just how much can they contribute? Meanwhile, Kenbrell Thompkins could take over for Armon Binns as Zach Collaros' No. 1 target. Young players on defense like Nick Temple and Dwight Jackson at linebacker should contribute. The same with junior college transfer Malcolm Murray in the secondary.

Pittsburgh

1. Let the Graham era begin. We got a glimpse of the changes to the Pitt offense in the spring, and now it is time to see how far everyone has come in mastering the hurry-up spread offense Todd Graham is bringing with him from Tulsa. Players spent all summer getting into the proper condition to be able to run the offense. Graham is confident his players have what it takes, and was pleasantly surprised with how quickly they were able to transition to a completely different strength and conditioning program in such a short period of time.

2. Transitioning to the 3-4. Pitt also is running a new defense this season. Brandon Lindsey is going to play more of a hybrid defensive end/linebacker, and said the transition has been great for him so far. The new scheme also is going to emphasize being more aggressive, especially in the defensive backfield. The secondary has been a question mark, but Graham is confident in his players and has especially singled out K'Waun Williams as a player who has impressed him. The Panthers already return one of the best safeties in the league in Jarred Holley, so overall this could be one of the best units in the league.

I had a chance to catch up with Cincinnati quarterback Zach Collaros to find out how the offseason is going, what he thinks of all the pub going to Geno Smith and how he good he thinks this offense can be this season.

AA: What have been the biggest things you have worked on this offseason?

ZC: We’re running a lot as an offense, working hard on tempo, getting lined up faster, working on execution, working with receivers, getting our timing down on routes, doing 7-on-7s. As a senior class, we've taken it upon ourselves to lead the activities. We've embraced the role of leadership, we’ve had a positive summer, and grown closer as a team. Hopefully that translates onto the field.

AA: How about you? How have you improved this summer?

ZC: Physically, it’s the best I've felt in a long time. We're in great condition -- the strength coaches always have us in great condition. In terms of football, I’m working on things that translate onto the field -- getting the ball off, not taking sacks. A big factor in summer is watching film, not just on the first two games, but stuff you did last year in ways you can improve. It hasn’t been just me. Others have gotten after it in that aspect and that's going to help.

AA: A lot of people are talking about Geno Smith as being the best quarterback in the Big East. How do you feel when you hear that?

ZC: I love being counted out. I’ve always looked at myself as an underdog. It adds that extra motivation you need more after coming off the season we had last year. It adds fuel to the fire, and reason to work harder, people doubting you.

AA: You lost Armon Binns, so who is going to step up in his place?

ZC: Losing Armon hurts. He was a comfort zone for me. We came in together, we grew up together in the program, so losing him will take away that comfortability for me. Anthony McClung, Kenbrell [Thompkins],DJ [Woods] -- I can't say enough about how they've come in and taken over the leadership role. We don’t miss a beat when it comes to 7-on-7s. They’re working hard, setting a good example for the younger kids. All three of those guys did a great job with that, along with them, OJ Woodard is working hard as well. As for the tight ends, Travis Kelce is back on the depth chart now, of course Adrien Robinson is still here, Blake Annen is here. It all starts up front, though; those guys up front have been doing a great job.

AA: What gives you the confidence to know your offensive line is going to be better?

ZC: Alex Hoffman has taken the lead with that group, as well as Randy Martinez. Those are two great guys in the program, great leaders for the younger guys. They’re helping them to develop, and I’m very confident in those guys. It all starts with them. If they can protect and run block, the offense has a nice feeling.

AA: Given all the potential, what are your expectations for the offense?

ZC: I think it's the same as it was last year. We had a lot of potential, and we had a lot of high expectations. High expectations are a good thing because you want to reach those expectations. We didn't last year. Turnovers killed us and not scoring touchdowns and kicking field goals and all that stuff. It comes down to execution. The experience will help me.

AA: How do you work on cutting down those turnovers?

ZC: It all starts with the quarterbacks. I have to cut down on the interceptions. I had a lot of them last year coming from behind, forcing too many balls in there. Me making better decisions is what it all starts with. We fumbled a lot last year, which you can't do. If we cut back on that, we're going to have a really good season. In practice every day, we have a five-minute period dedicated to ball-security drills. I think some of it was unlucky last year. The balls didn't bounce our way. We want to change that this year.

AA: Defense was the weak link, though. How is that unit going to be better?

ZC: Well, they’re all returning, which is a good thing. They all have a year of experience and are sick of people telling them they were the weak link and stuff like that. They want to be better. We have great leaders like JK [Schaffer], Cam Cheatham has stepped up. They're good football players. I know they work very hard in the weight room, they’re watching film and I have a lot of confidence the results on field are going to be much better this year.

AA: What goals have you set for yourself this season?

ZC: I just want to win more games, get back to a bowl game and win the Big East. For myself, I want to have a higher completion percentage, to be in the 64, 65 percent range. As long as I can lead my team to wins. I want my teammates to look at me as a leader. If I can accomplish that, I will be happy.

We wrap up our look at team position rankings with special teams. There are plenty of strong kickers and returners in the league. I did not separate them, though, because those would be more like individual rankings. Those are coming soon.

1. Connecticut. The Huskies have one of the best kickers in the league in Dave Teggart and one of the best kickoff returners in the league in Nick Williams putting them in the top spot here. Williams led the NCAA in kickoff return average last season with 35.3 yards per kick. Teggart was the Big East first-team selection, making 25 of 31 field goals. They should be better this year, even with the loss of Robbie Frey.

2. USF. The Bulls also have an excellent kicker-returner duo in Maikon Bonani and Lindsey Lamar. Bonani made 17 of 21 kicks last year, while Lamar was the first-team All-Big East selection, returning two kickoffs for touchdowns and averaging 26 yards per return. Add in punt returner Terrence Mitchell and this is one of the best units in the league.

3. Louisville. The Cardinals have one of the best in the league in Chris Philpott, who punts and kicks. Josh Bleser is solid in splitting the punting duties with Philpott. Victor Anderson and Jeremy Wright are back as kickoff returners -- both averaged 30-plus yards per return last season. Wright's kick return helped the Cardinals win the Beef 'O' Brady's Bowl last year. Doug Beaumont is gone as punt returner, but he is the only loss. This unit has a chance to be No. 1 at year's end.

4. Syracuse. The Orange have one of the best kickers in the league in Ross Krautman, who missed just one of his 19 field goal attempts last season. They do lose their top punt returner in Mike Holmes, along with punter Rob Long so there are questions at some of the most important spots on special teams. But Krautman, and the return of Dorian Graham and Prince-Tyson Gulley returning kicks puts this unit just ahead of the Bearcats.

5. Cincinnati. This is a mixed bag for the Bearcats. They have the best punter in the league in Pat O'Donnell, who also happens to be a physical freak in the weight room. They should be decent in the return game with the return of D.J. Woods, who will compete with Anthony McClung, Shaq Washington and Kenbrell Thompkins to return kicks and punts. Darrin Williams is in the mix for kickoff returner, too. But kicker is a huge question mark. Jacob Rogers was solid last season. Now there is uncertainty in the competition between Tony Miliano and Danny Milligan. Coach Butch Jones says he won't name a starter until game week.

6. Rutgers. The Scarlet Knights also have question marks here. Kicker San San Te returns, but he needs to be better from longer distances (2-of-7 from 40-plus yards). Punter Teddy Dellaganna is gone and so is kickoff returner Joe Lefeged. True freshman Anthony DiPaula enrolled early and takes over at punter. Mason Robinson is back at punt returner, and Jeremy Deering and Mark Harrison make a good combo returning kicks.

7. West Virginia. The Mountaineers need more consistency from kicker Tyler Bitancurt, who missed his final four kicks of last season. He made just 10 of 17 attempts and looked shaky in the spring. West Virginia has a new holder and a new punter in Corey Smith, and hopes for improvement in the return game.

8. Pittsburgh. The Panthers have to replace both kicking specialists, including Big East first-team punter Dan Hutchins. At punter, you have walk-ons Matt Yoklic and Drake Greer, neither of whom has punted in a collegiate game. Kevin Harper takes over as kicker and had a good spring game. The Panthers also replace their long-snapper, so there will be a period of adjustment for this unit when the season starts. Cameron Saddler is a bright spot at returner.

Previous rankings

• Offensive line
• Receiver
• Running back
• Tight end
• Quarterback
• Defensive line
• Linebacker
• Safety
• Cornerback

We continue our team position rankings today with receiver. This is an area of great potential for plenty of teams around the league, especially with some of the high-octane offenses that we are going to see. Only three teams return their leading receiver from last season. The overriding theme seems to be this: there is a lot of talent, but much of it is unproven. So how are these receivers going to step up?

To make these rankings, I considered returning starters, accolades for returning starters, depth and potential.

1. Rutgers. The Scarlet Knights have proven talent and depth at this position, putting them at the top spot in these rankings. When healthy, Mark Harrison and Mohamed Sanu form one of the top 1-2 punches in the entire league. Add in Brandon Coleman, who had an outstanding spring, along with Tim Wright returning from injury and the top four looks as solid as it gets. Let's not forget incoming speedsters Miles Shuler and Tejay Johnson, who have the potential to play as well.

2. West Virginia. The Mountaineers have Tavon Austin, Stedman Bailey and a whole bunch of questions at the position. But with the new offense Dana Holgorsen is bringing in, other receivers have a chance to be more effective. Austin is about as close as you can come to a surefire first-team All-Big East player. Ryan Nehlen had a nice spring and could be the surprise of the season. So could Tyler Urban, a converted tight end. How will Brad Starks do after shoulder surgery? Will Ivan McCartney live up to his potential? There is talent here and great potential if everybody lives up to expectations.

3. Cincinnati. The Bearcats are stocked with talent, but many of these skill players have got to gain experience and fast with Armon Binns, Marcus Barnett, Vidal Hazelton and Ben Guidugli gone. D.J. Woods is expected to be a first-team All-Big East selection. But beyond he and Anthony McClung, you have got young guys -- junior college transfers Kenbrell Thompkins and Damon Julian, redshirt freshman Dyjuan Lewis, freshmen Shaq Washington, Chris Moore, Alex Chisum and Max Morrison. Thompkins showed great promise in the spring.

4. Pittsburgh. The Panthers lose their leading receiver in Jon Baldwin, but the duo of Mike Shanahan and Devin Street could each be 1,000-yard receivers. Behind them, though, there are some questions and inexperience. Junior Cameron Saddler is going to have to step up. Redshirt freshmen Salath Williams, Drew Carswell, junior college transfer Josh Brinson and true freshman Justin Jackson are all young but have a chance to be big contributors. Pitt also is waiting to hear whether UNC transfer Brendon Felder will have his petition for immediate eligibility granted.

5. Syracuse. The Orange have plenty of solid returning receivers in Van Chew, Marcus Sales and Alec Lemon but what this team is really lacking is big-play potential. In five games last season, Syracuse failed to complete a pass that went longer than 30 yards. In fact, Ryan Nassib averaged 6.5 yards per pass attempt. A healthy Jarrod West could help those numbers improve. Dorian Graham has to work on his hands, too.

6. USF. The Bulls lose leading receiver Dontavia Bogan, but they return injured players Sterling Griffin and A.J. Love to the mix, which is going to be huge. Lindsey Lamar and Evan Landi also return, along with Terrence Mitchell, Joel Miller and Faron Hornes. Deonte Welch had a nice spring game and is listed as a backup behind Landi. True freshman Andre Davis has the potential to contribute as well. The Bulls have plenty of depth here but there are still some questions about this group, especially with Griffin and Love coming off injuries.

7. Louisville. The Cardinals lose their top two receivers, and have got to figure out a way to make big plays and stretch the field with a young group. Josh Bellamy appears to be the go-to man headed into 2011, and much is going to be expected of Andrell Smith and Michaelee Harris. Both are coming off injuries and were unable to practice in the spring. True freshmen are most likely going to be relied upon, giving Eli Rogers and DeVante Parker and opportunity to play.

8. Connecticut. A playmaker has got to emerge from this group to help out whoever is going to be playing quarterback. The Huskies lost leading receiver Mike Smith because of academics. Kashif Moore, Ryan Griffin and Isiah Moore return but UConn is going to need some of its redshirt freshmen like Geremy Davis and Tebucky Jones Jr. to step up. The Huskies are not preparing to run the spread, so the potential for a 1,000-yard receiver in this group is low.

Previous rankings:

• Offensive line