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As part of “College Football Live’s” 100 Days Till Kickoff countdown, here’s a look at the top 10 players in the Big East. For those wondering, the Big East blog will still have its annual preseason Top 25 player countdown a little later in the summer.

Without further adieu:

1. Ray Graham, RB, Pitt. Taking a calculated risk here, considering we have no idea how Graham is going to look a year after tearing his ACL. Coach Paul Chryst says Graham will be ready for fall camp. If Graham is able to return to form, he should be the best player in the league.

2. Khaseem Greene, LB, Rutgers. Greene goes into the season as the preseason favorite to win Big East Defensive Player of the Year honors for the second straight season, after sharing honors with Derek Wolfe in 2011. Though he broke his ankle in the bowl game, he will be ready for fall camp. Side note: Isn't it a neat that he and Graham are brothers?

3. Aaron Donald, DT, Pitt. Donald emerged last season, finishing second in the league with 11 sacks. He has shifted inside to tackle this year, but he is the most productive and experienced player returning to the Pitt defensive line and should continue his upward trajectory.

4. Teddy Bridgewater, QB, Louisville. Bridgewater had a sensational freshman season, winning league Newcomer of the Year honors. Hopes are high for him to build off his impressive campaign in his second year as a starter. Louisville will do more to take advantage of his athleticism, with plans to install some hurry up offense.

5. Logan Ryan, CB, Rutgers. Ryan led the league with 16 passes defended -- 13 breakups and three interceptions last season. Defensive back is one of the strongest positions across the league, and Ryan leads the way as the Big East's best cornerback.

6. Hakeem Smith, S, Louisville. Smith has gotten better in each of his seasons with the Cardinals, so this season should feature more of the same. In 2011, he had 84 tackles, tied for second in the league, with nine pass breakups. He also tied for second in the league with three forced fumbles and made the Big East first team.

7. Ryne Giddins, DE, USF. Giddins emerged in the second half of last season (yes, I know many of you still remember him for his personal foul against West Virginia), and is in line to have a breakout year for the Bulls, who should have one of the stronger defensive lines in the Big East.

8. B.J. Daniels, QB, USF. Daniels should be the best quarterback in the Big East, considering he is going into his fourth year as a starter. Is this the year he finally lives up to expectations and delivers a long-awaited -- and first -- league title?

9. Walter Stewart, DE, Cincinnati. Coach Butch Jones says he has not been around a player as focused as Stewart in a long time. That is saying something, considering the defensive stars the Bearcats had last season. Stewart is poised to give Cincinnati a huge presence at rush end.

10. Lyle McCombs, RB, UConn. McCombs ran for more than 1,000 yards as a freshman last season and returns for 2011 with much more confidence -- and the Huskies hope a better offensive line. He goes into the season as the unquestioned featured back.

Time for my long-awaited post-spring power rankings. I made only a few changes from the pre-spring rankings. Here goes ...

1. Louisville: Quarterback Teddy Bridgewater looked better than ever this spring, giving me renewed confidence the Cardinals are going to be the preseason favorite in the league. The secondary should be exceptionally strong, and the offensive line should be better. Questions remain at running back and with depth in the front seven. But of all the teams in the league, I think the Cardinals have the most stability headed into the season. Plus, it hugely helps to have Charlie Strong entering Year 3.

2. USF: Big jump for the Bulls. I know I said I refused to buy into USF until the Bulls actually do something. But what they have returning is hard to ignore. Generally speaking, teams with 18 returning starters -- many of them seniors -- do really well. So do teams with veteran starting quarterbacks. While USF still has some major question marks on paper -- can B.J. Daniels develop, what happens at running back, where is the depth at linebacker -- the Bulls look like they have a shot.

3. Rutgers: At one time, I had Rutgers as my preseason favorite. But I am a little nervous about the situation at quarterback. I thought there would be a resolution this spring, but neither Chas Dodd nor Gary Nova did much to impress. Mohamed Sanu is gone, there are more shifts on the offensive line, and the running game has to prove something. I think the defense will be the best in the Big East. The offense is scaring me right now, which is why I moved the Scarlet Knights down.

4. Cincinnati: The Bearcats do return talent, and players who saw some significant action last season. But they also lose 21 seniors, including Big East Offensive Player of the Year Isaiah Pead and Big East Co-Defensive Player of the Year Derek Wolfe. I don't have any doubts that the Bearcats will have a good season. I just don't know if they will win another championship.

5. Pitt: If there is any team with "ifs" all over the roster, it is the Panthers. They have a new head coach. They are returning Tino Sunseri at quarterback. Nobody knows how Ray Graham is going to do after major knee surgery. The offensive line has to be better. There is not much depth on the defensive line. If all of these come together, the Panthers could be really good. If they don't, they could be really bad.

6. UConn: The Huskies will be good on defense. But what about quarterback? I feel like a broken record saying the same thing over again. Quarterback uncertainty always makes me hesitant to rank a team in the top half of the league. I was hesitant last year, and I am hesitant again this year.

7. Syracuse: I have said this before, but it bears repeating: I think Syracuse is the hardest team to gauge in the Big East. The Orange have to be more consistent on offense. They have to find a running game to help ease some of the burden off quarterback Ryan Nassib. Does Ashton Broyld give them enough to get them more explosive plays? The defense still has depth concerns in the front seven.

8. Temple: I worry about how the Owls will make the transition to the Big East in Year 1. I think Temple has a good team, but the Owls also lost a lot of their best players and have depth concerns on the offensive and defensive lines. That is enough to worry any coach in Year 1 in a major conference.

AMELIA ISLAND, Fla. -- Pitt coach Paul Chryst came right out and said what had become obvious this spring -- Tino Sunseri is his starting quarterback going into fall practice.

Chryst said Tuesday during the ACC spring meetings, "He was the best quarterback we had out of spring. That's why he's the starter."

Sunseri had been competing with Mark Myers and Trey Anderson for the starting job after a pretty brutal 2011 season. The truth is that Sunseri was not really a match for the spread offense under former coach Todd Graham. But he was inconsistent the season before under Dave Wannstedt, so there are those Pitt fans probably scratching their heads wondering what Sunseri can do to be better entering his third season as a starter.

"The biggest thing for quarterbacking is being able to do it and doing it on a consistent level," Chryst said. "That’s your normal progression. He clearly was the best this spring that we had. You’re aware of the history but it doesn’t really matter for us. What do you have right now? It’s our job to coach them and how can you help everyone get better? He’s got a great opportunity. He has played in a lot of games, he does have experience. He’s got room to grow. If he chooses to grow, and I know it’s easier for us to say last year or two years before that doesn’t matter. It matters in the sense that you should learn from all of it, positive or negative. But it doesn’t matter going forward.

"Right now, if you were to say who gives you the best chance to have success, it would be him. So coach the heck out of him."

Chryst said nobody grabbed the backup quarterback job. As for what he anticipates for Chad Voytik once the four-star prospect arrives this summer, Chryst said, "First he's got to get here. Then we've got to see how he picks up things. I anticipate him getting work. Legitimately getting work and then we'll see."

Now here is a quick update on running back Ray Graham, coming off a knee injury. Chryst said Graham is "progressing" and anticipates his star back will be ready for the start of fall camp.

"The plan is he will be ready," Chryst said. "We’ll have him practice. He needs it. They all need it. I’m not going to project too much until it’s time. But we’re planning on it. We’re going full steam ahead."

Chryst anticipates he will have all his players available for practice when fall camp opens.

Andrea Adelson picks her Big East player to watch for 2012: Pitt running back Ray Graham.

2011 overall record: 6-7

2011 conference record: 4-3 (T-4)

Returning starters

Offense 8; Defense 4; Kicker/punter: 2.

Key returners

RB Ray Graham, QB Tino Sunseri, OG Chris Jacobson, RB Isaac Bennett, WR Devin Street, DT Aaron Donald, S Jarred Holley, CB K'Waun Williams

Key losses

DE Brandon Lindsey, DT Chas Alecxih, DT Myles Caragein, LB Max Gruder, CB Antwuan Reed

2011 statistical leaders (*returners)

Rushing: Ray Graham* (958 yards)

Passing: Tino Sunseri* (247-of-385 for 2,616 yards, 10 TDs, 11 INTs)

Receiving: Devin Street* (754 yards)

Tackles: Max Gruder (116)

Sacks: Aaron Donald* (11)

Interceptions: Eight tied with one each

Spring answers

1. Depth at safety. Pitt has some major talent at safety, with four players capable of starting in Jarred Holley, Andrew Taglianetti, Jason Hendricks and transfer Ray Vinopal, one of the highlights for the Panthers this season. Coaches are going to have a hard time determining the starters from the backups once the season begins.

2. Michigan transfers rise. Speaking of Vinopal, he and Cullen Christian came to Pitt from Michigan and were forced to sit out a year. Though the scheme has changed, both players had terrific springs. Vinopal was making plays all over the field, exactly what you want your safety to do. Christian is making a serious play to win the starting cornerback job opposite K'Waun Williams.

3. Chryst comfortable. Pitt has had more coaching transitions in the last two years than any other school in America. So naturally, many wondered how coach Paul Chryst would do in his first spring. I haven't heard any complaints about him or what he is trying to do at Pitt. His persona has been embraced, and so has his offensive scheme.

Fall questions

1. Is Ray Graham 100 percent? All indications are that Graham is on schedule in his rehab from a torn ACL. But he missed all of spring, and just how much he will do in the fall remains up in the air. Remember, he will be less than a year removed from knee surgery when the season opens in September. So his recovery will be one of the biggest story lines to watch this season for the Panthers.

2. Can Tino Sunseri be better? If everything holds as expected, Sunseri will be going into his third season as a starter. Of course, he will be going into his third different offense as well, hard enough for most players to adjust to, let alone the quarterback. Coach Paul Chryst did a great job tailoring the offense to the players he had while at Wisconsin. It will be paramount to do the same with Sunseri, to get him comfortable in the offense and limiting his mistakes.

3. Revamped defensive front. Pitt lost three of its top four linemen from a year ago, and will feature a radically reshaped defensive front. Sack leader Aaron Donald is the only one who returns. The others who will be counted on to step up, from Shayne Hale to Bryan Murphy to T.J. Clemmings, were all highly touted players who must now meet expectations to maintain Pitt's status as a solid defensive team.

Time to move along to Week 7 in my ultimate Big East road trip. For those just tuning in, I am selecting the games I would choose to see each and every week this season.

My editors usually do that for me. But if the scheduling were up to me, this is where I would want to go.

Here is the Week 7 schedule:

• Fordham at Cincinnati
• Temple at UConn
• Louisville at Pitt
• Syracuse at Rutgers

My choice: Louisville at Pitt.

Why: Not exactly a scintillating Big East slate this week, but it happens from time to time. There are some intriguing story lines for a few of the games -- Steve Addazio goes against his mentor in Paul Pasqualoni when the Owls play at UConn. Then you have the battle for New York between Syracuse and Rutgers, in what could very well be their final game against Big East rivals. Who can forget the turnover-fest that ended in overtime last year?

But I am going with Louisville vs. Pitt for a few reasons. For one, I am projecting that this game is going to have an impact on the Big East race, based on where I expect both teams to be at this point in the season. For another, there is a bit of a revenge factor going in this game. Last season, Louisville had a great opportunity to make some noise in the Big East race headed into its Nov. 12 home game against Pitt. The Cardinals had won three in a row, including a huge victory at West Virginia the previous week. Pitt was struggling with Ray Graham out.

But the Panthers came in and pushed Louisville around -- rushing for 200 yards against one of the best run defenses in the league -- and won 21-14. The following week, Louisville coach Charlie Strong said his players weren't focused for Pitt because they spent too much time playing the video game "Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3." I think you all remember cracking wise about that.

Anyway, if Louisville is as good as advertised, the Cardinals should once again be the favorite going into this game. The potential also exists for them to be undefeated. Oh and by the way, this also happens to be Louisville's league opener. I think it is pretty safe to project the stakes to be the highest in this game.

Here are my previous choices:

• Week 1
• Week 2
• Week 3
• Week 4
• Week 5
• Week 6

Anybody who has watched the Big East in recent years realizes this a much more defensive league, than offensive league.

Last season, seven of the eight teams ranked in the top half of the nation in total defense. The "worst" defense, Syracuse, ranked No. 64 -- just outside the top half. In 2010, six of eight teams ranked in the top half of the nation in the same category. The "worst" two defenses -- Cincinnati and Rutgers -- were ranked No. 61 and 63, respectively. In 2009, the worst defense, Cincinnati, ranked No. 67 in the nation.

I went back and looked at recent draft history to see how this translated to the next level.

Sure enough, defensive players were selected more than offensive players, and in higher rounds to boot.

In the past two drafts, 21 of the 34 players selected came from the defense. In the recently concluded NFL draft, eight of the 12 Big East players came from the defense. More pronounced, five of the seven players drafted in the first three rounds were defensive, and all played defensive line (Bruce Irvin, Chandler Jones, Derek Wolfe, Kendall Reyes and John Hughes).

Going back to the 2010 draft, 12 of the 16 players taken in the first three rounds were on defense.

We can continue looking a bit deeper to see defensive line has been an incredible strength, not just in the draft this year. In the past four drafts, the Big East has had at least one defensive lineman drafted in the first three rounds. Last year, two of the first four Big East picks were linemen. In 2010, Jason Pierre-Paul of USF went in the first round.

Coaches like Charlie Strong, Greg Schiano, Randy Edsall, Dave Wannstedt, Paul Pasqualoni and Jim Leavitt all have had a hand in the transformation, given their defensive backgrounds.

So will the trend hold for the 2013 draft?

In the super early mock drafts for next season, there are no Big East players listed in the first round. But CBS Sports already has a listing of the top draft prospects, by position. Eleven defensive players are listed among the Top 25 players at their respective positions, compared to five on offense.

However, there are more offensive players ranked among the Top 5 at their positions. Justin Pugh of Syracuse is listed as the No. 4 offensive tackle; Ray Graham of Pitt is listed as the No. 5 running back; and Ryan Griffin of UConn is listed as the No. 5 tight end.

The top-ranked defensive player is Khaseem Greene, at No. 6 among outside linebackers. Sio Moore of UConn also makes that list, at No. 9.

There is obviously an entire season of football to be played, and all these projections will change. But the way the Big East's defensive players have emerged is a trend worth noting.

You know what makes for great offseason fodder?

Preseason Heisman Trophy candidates!

So see if you can name the Big East players on the first Heisman Pundit watch list for 2012. I will wait.

Twiddles thumbs.

Whistles.

Looks at watch.

Ready?

Zilch.

That should not come as a major shock to anybody, what with this looking like another so-so year for offense in the Big East. There are simply no standouts at the three positions that produce virtually every Heisman candidate. The chances are low for any Big East quarterback to reach the 3,000-yard mark this season.

Running back? Ray Graham would be the best candidate, but he is coming off an ACL injury, and we have no idea when he will return to form. Are there other candidates at the position? Crickets.

Receiver? The league doesn't have a 1,000-yard receiver returning. Of course, there were only three who fit the category last season. Two play with West Virginia, off to the Big 12. And yes, the Mountaineers do have Tavon Austin and Geno Smith on that very Heisman Pundit Watch List.

I don't put much stock into Heisman Watch Lists, now or even in-season. But it is a little concerning that this league lacks a superstar at an offensive position. You have to go back to 2006 to find a Big East player to finish in the Top 5 of the Heisman balloting. That was West Virginia running back Steve Slaton. Rutgers running back Ray Rice finished seventh that same season.

Offensive fireworks draw headlines, and attention. Look at all the praise heaped on West Virginia for scoring 70 points against Clemson in the Discover Orange Bowl. A few offensive all-stars go a long way toward bringing eyes to the conference. The Big East is not quite there.

Time to move along to Week 2 in my ultimate Big East road trip. For those just tuning in to this new series, I am selecting the games I would choose to see each and every week this season.

My editors usually do that for me. But if the scheduling were up to me, this is where I would want to go.

Here is the Week 2 schedule:

Thurs., Sept. 6

• Pitt at Cincinnati

Sat., Sept. 8

• NC State at UConn
• Missouri State at Louisville
• Howard at Rutgers
• USF at Nevada
• USC vs. Syracuse
• Maryland at Temple

My choice: Pitt at Cincinnati

Why: There are more intriguing games in Week 2 than in Week 1, so this was a much more difficult decision. I could bend the spirit of the rules and pick two games -- start off in Cincinnati on Thursday night before heading to New York to watch USC against Syracuse. But we are generally assigned just one game a week. So I shall pick one.

I really would love to see USC vs. Syracuse, because this is one of the high-profile nonconference games of the Big East season. USC will be one of the top-ranked teams in the nation, playing Syracuse in the shadow of New York City. A win for Syracuse here, and the Big East reputation will no doubt be bolstered. But I am going with the game that has Big East implications, also being played on national television.

This is the season opener for the Bearcats, who will have a new look with so much departing talent gone. And it is the first big test for new Pitt coach Paul Chryst (the Panthers open the season against FCS Youngstown State). Cincinnati has won a share of the Big East championship three times in the past four seasons, including 2009 -- the last time the Bearcats opened the season against a Big East opponent (Rutgers). The big question is whether they can do it again after losing players like Zach Collaros, Isaiah Pead, Derek Wolfe and JK Schaffer.

As for Pitt, how will the revamped offensive scheme fare against what should continue to be an aggressive defensive front? Has Ray Graham returned to form? How does Tino Sunseri handle Big East play for the third straight season? How does the Pitt revamped front seven do against a team with a mobile quarterback that likes to run the spread? Whoever wins obviously gets a leg up in the Big East standings early in the season, making this the most important game of Week 2.

In case you missed it, here is Week 1.

Let's take one final peek into the mailbag before the weekend begins.

Mike in Southern R Country, N.J., writes: AA. Love the blog. My comment/question: With the loss of the AQ status, where does the Big East end up? I'm a huge Rutgers fan and have been opposed to the conference realignment, but at this point wouldn't dissolving the BE be a better option instead of trying to be a strong conference by just filling holes with mediocre football programs?

Andrea Adelson: Thanks for reading, Mike. Realignment has hit the Big East hard, but I don't see the benefit of dissolving the league. First of all, the Big East will be making more money from its next TV contract than it does right now, despite the perception of the teams coming in. Football TV money is what drives the train. Second, where would the schools in the Big East go to play football? I don't see the Big Ten opening its arms to take refugees -- not at this point. There is no question losing AQ status hurts. But I don't think it means the Big East will forever be banished to the BBVA Compass Bowl. Go undefeated, and you presumably have a shot if you are in the Big East.

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Johnny Panther in Darby, Pa., writes: Tell us why the Panthers will win the Big East.

Adelson: Here is my argument for Pitt. The Panthers should have the best rushing team in the Big East, with the return of Ray Graham, plus the emergence of Isaac Bennett and potential of Rushel Shell. Add in a rushing mastermind in Paul Chryst, and the Panthers could beat teams by slowly wearing them down with their run game. Defensively, Pitt should be solid in the secondary, particularly at safety. Aaron Donald returns as one of the best linemen in the Big East. This is not a team that is going to throw up 40 points a game, but if it is able to play ball control and play well on defense, Pitt absolutely has a shot at winning the Big East.

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Michael Stephenson in Louisville writes: Andrea, the reason Athlon picked Teddy Bridgewater over B.J. Daniels is obviously because this it a projection for the 2012 season. If you look at their stats, Bridgewater was not too far behind Daniels last season, and he did not even start the first three games. Athlon obviously (and correctly I believe) feels that with Bridgewater having such a great season as a true freshman, that his upside and room for making a greater jump in improvement this coming season is greater than that of Daniels, who is a senior and is probably getting close to peaking with his abilities. Also consider that Bridgewater was playing behind a bunch of Baby Hueys on the O-line and running for his life much of the time last season. This is, of course, is a projection based purely on speculation that Bridgewater will pass Daniels by this coming season. I believe he will. Shawn Watson has stated that Bridgewater is light years ahead of where he was last season at understanding how to manage the game and make the right throws.

Adelson: I have no doubt about Bridgewater's potential, either, Michael. But I still have concerns over the offensive line, particularly the way it played against bigger, more physical teams. That bowl performance against NC State has to be an aberration or Bridgewater will be running for his life again. Louisville also must develop a more consistent run game and more consistent playmakers at receiver to help him out. The dreaded sophomore slump must be avoided. The reason I thought Daniels would be ranked on top is because many believe he will finally reach his potential in his senior season. I don't think it is fair to say he has possibly peaked because he has started more games, and perhaps not done as well as projected. He has had injured receivers the past two seasons, severely hampering chemistry and rhythm. If everybody stays healthy, USF should have more depth than Louisville at receiver, which will no doubt help Daniels. I understand why Athlon Sports ranked Bridgewater on top, but I think Daniels goes in as No. 1, with Bridgewater a close No. 2.

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Allan in Louisville writes: Quick question(s) - What do you think the likelihood is that Louisville goes undefeated? Also, do you expect them to be favored in every game they play this year? Thanks!

Adelson: Though Louisville is more experienced than last year, I think this is still a really young team. I don't expect an undefeated season. As for being favored, it is too tough to tell right now about the games later in the season. Louisville should be favored in its nonconference games. If projections hold firm, the only game I see right now that would have Louisville as the underdog would be the finale at Rutgers. But again, all that depends on how the season goes for everyone.

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Rob in NJ All Day writes: AA, Why does South Florida always pick up good transfers? Also do you think bringing in these transfers will hurt team chemistry with existing D-linemen? Keep up the good work with all the RU videos.

Adelson: Thanks, Rob. If you look at the biggest transfers of note -- Darrell Scott, Chris Dunkley, Mike McFarland and Aaron Lynch -- all of them have ties to the state of Florida and/or Tampa area. There also is an opportunity to be an immediate contributor, as was the case with Scott, who led the team in rushing last season. I don't think the chemistry will be hurt with Lynch on board. You have to think a good player will raise the level of play of those around him.

Welcome to another edition of the Big East mailblog. I am stepping away from the blog for the next few days, so this is the only time I will open the mailbag this week. That should mean double the questions for double the mailbags when I come back.

Spike McBride in Bee Cave, Texas, writes: Dear Andrea, I love reading your articles about my Pitt Panthers and have a couple of questions for you. 1) Did Ray Graham qualify for a medical redshirt in 2011? If so, how many years of eligibility does he have 2) How is it looking for Ray Graham in 2012? Is he healing up? 3) Will you still cover Pitt in 2013 when they are in the ACC? Please??????

Andrea Adelson: You are too kind, Spike. Thanks for reading! Graham did not qualify for a medical redshirt because he played in way too many games last season. So that means he goes into his senior season in 2012. As for how he is looking, coach Paul Chryst said Graham is on target with his rehab and should be ready in time for the start of the season. So we will know more once fall camp rolls around. Will I still cover Pitt? My assignments have not changed, but if they do you guys will be among the first to know.

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Brad in Madison, Wis., writes: Andrea, Love the blog! I am originally from PA and wanted to know what the chances are of Rushel Shell redshirting the 2012 season at Pitt. With Ray Graham back and (Isaac) Bennett tearing it up in spring practices, will the new regime redshirt Shell to give him time to learn the offense, adjust to the speed of the college game, and give him potentially 4 years of eligibility as THE running back of the future? Thanks!

Adelson: Wow, I am 2-for-2 today with AA fans. Thanks, guys! That is a great question, Brad, and one we will be sure to monitor once fall camp begins. Anybody who has seen Chryst at Wisconsin knows he is not afraid to play three running backs, so my guess on what they do with Shell really depends on how ready he is to contribute right out of the gate. We have no idea what shape Graham is going to be in when he returns, so that is also a major question mark. But given the way Pitt wants to run the ball this season, I think there is more than enough room for Graham, Bennett and Shell. You can't just have two running backs ready to go anymore.

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John in Woodbridge, N.J., writes: Andrea you look really good on the national perception of the Big East video! Great job. My problem is the teams like Rutgers and Louisville need to start having 10-plus win seasons (just like West Virginia) year in and year out. On top of that winning the BCS game and Champs Bowl in impressive fashion. Then things will change. What is your outlook?

Adelson: 3-for-3, a gal's dream! Thanks, John. You are on point with your assessment. I have had various league coaches say the same thing -- there has to be a consistent winner that separates itself at the top of the league for perception to change. Being competitive top to bottom is great, but an upper echelon must be developed.

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Mr. P in West Chester, Ohio, writes: Andrea: I watched your video on the national perception of the Big East. "Baloney." Talk is cheap. One game is worth 10,000 words. The Big East will do just fine in football, just like we do in basketball. OK, big boys just come play us at Nippert Stadium on a home and home contract and let's see how we do. Andrea you are walking the ESPN party line and that is sad. I was an Andrea fan. That's terrible reporting based on feelings and perception. The game is played on the field, but the Big Boys won't come here and play us. They always want us to play in their sand box. Good Luck in the future. Yes, I'm mad.

Adelson: Well, the winning streak couldn't last, and now I have ticked off one of my most loyal readers. I am sorry, Mr. P. You know as well as I do that pundits and fans do not look at the results. They look at a league that has had interchangeable parts for teams since 2004. It is hard to argue against the notion that the Big East is the Rodney Dangerfield of college football. Go ahead and look at what every other outlet writes about the Big East, or even the rankings. If the Big East has two teams ranked in the preseason Top 25, it will be a minor miracle. You are right that the big boys do not want to play home games against Big East teams, and I totally understand the frustration with that. But that also has a little something to do with perception. Big teams don't see much value in playing at a Big East venue. Unfortunate, but true. So now, Big East teams have to do what West Virginia did to Clemson in the Orange Bowl. Win big on the national stage. If Rutgers beats Arkansas on the road or if Syracuse stuns USC and Missouri -- imagine how far wins like that would go toward flipping the tired script that always accompanies the Big East.

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David Patterson in Baltimore writes: AA, with Navy coming into the BE in 2015, do you see any more additions to the conference before then? I'm curious as the Mids have developed a nice rivalry with East Carolina since 2006. Being four hours apart, it has become a nice additional rivalry especially from a fan perspective as ECU brought over 4,000 fans to Annapolis last year and ECU has a good presence in the Baltimore - Washington area. The year before, the Mids spanked the Pirates in front of over 50,000 down at their place with several thousand Navy supporters as well. With so much Naval presence in Virginia Beach and Eastern NC, I'm at a loss on why ECU has not and could not be added. I think the Mids will have good rivalries with Temple and Rutgers as well but neither seem to travel as well as ECU.

Adelson: David, if the Big East does get to 14 teams, it is going to have to add another West team to help balance the divisions and create another travel partner for Boise State and San Diego State. I wouldn't be surprised if the league tried to make another run at Air Force. As for East Carolina, I know the Pirates are desperate to get in, but they just don't fit the profile.

Pitt coach Paul Chryst has not definitively declared Tino Sunseri as his starting quarterback headed into fall practice.

Does he need to?

Chryst said last week that Sunseri had separated himself from Mark Myers and Trey Anderson, which seemingly points in the direction of Sunseri winning the starting job. True freshman Chad Voytik enrolls this summer, so there is a chance that he could come in and blow everybody away with his amazing talent and grasp of the offense.

But right now, it appears Sunseri will go into his third straight season as the starter.

That is hard to believe for many, considering the lackluster results along the way. It is no secret that Sunseri has struggled with the deep ball, and clearly cannot run a spread offense. He should never be asked to do that again. I truly believe Sunseri should be given a pass for what happened last season, and I think the longer time goes on, perhaps more Pitt fans feel the same way. Todd Graham deserves the blame for what happened last season.

The point is that Chryst must believe Sunseri truly gives his team the best chance to win, given his experience and current understanding of the new offense. While the passing game was nothing to write home about -- Sunseri went 13-of-27 for 147 yards with a touchdown and interception in the spring game -- you wonder how much of an ask is going to be made of the quarterbacks with the potential for such a strong running game.

Perhaps the quarterback for Pitt this season will be more of a game manager. Sunseri has been good at times throughout his career. Look back to the USF, UConn and Louisville games for recent examples. Give him time in the pocket, and he does not implode. I can guarantee the offensive line will be miles better this season.

The short passing game works for him, along with play action. Does he need to make 80-yard throws every game? Obviously a home run ball is nice every once in a while, but there have been quarterbacks without the greatest command of the deep ball that have fared just fine.

With the development of Isaac Bennett and Corey Davis, along with the return of Ray Graham and the arrival of Rushel Shell, Pitt has the perfect opportunity this season to just ground and pound, and let Sunseri throw it as a change of pace. Obviously, any great team wants to have balance with their running and passing attack. Obviously, teams will want to stack the box to force Pitt to throw. Sunseri has to learn how to beat the blitzes and make the clutch throws with games on the line.

But Ray Graham was so good last season, teams loaded the box and still couldn't stop him. The potential exists for the same to happen again this season with so much talent in the backfield. Pitt needs its ground game to work for Sunseri to work.

"(The run game) has a chance to be good," Chryst said after spring ball wrapped. "But it all starts with the line. The line made some improvements this spring. Ray's working, we need to get him back healthy and Rushel, we all know what he is ... There's also a lot of quesitons, but that will be a good problem if we have a bunch of running backs."

Especially if it takes pressure off Sunseri.

Ray Graham might be on the sideline this spring for Pitt, but the running game has looked outstanding anyway.

Isaac Bennett has taken charge.

Given all the headlines he has made, he has to be a real candidate for spring MVP for the Panthers headed into their spring game Saturday. During practice Thursday, Bennett busted another 70-yard score -- his third this spring that went for 50 or more yards.

Bennett, ever humble, insisted on giving all the credit to his linemen and fullbacks during a phone conversation earlier this spring -- as grateful running backs tend to do.

"My position is just to play the game, do what I can, do what I'm coached to do and go from there," he said. "I just want to show Coach [Paul] Chryst he can trust me."

There is plenty to trust about Bennett, a tough back who rarely goes down on first contact. He got game experience last season after Graham went down with a torn ACL. The initial plan was to redshirt him, but he still traveled with the team.

When the time came to lift his redshirt, at least Bennett had an idea of the routine on the road and what should be expected out of a featured back. He did admirably filling in, with 58 carries for 237 yards and two touchdowns.

"I am glad I got experience that early," Bennett said. "I went from still studying the plays to getting more work during practice so I could get up to speed quickly."

This spring he has seemed like a natural, especially with the scheme change and the way Chryst is emphasizing the run. That did not go unnoticed in the running backs room. Bennett also has noticed a change in the mind-set of his offensive linemen as well.

"I've seen them have a greater passion this year," Bennett said. "I just see the looks in their eyes when they line up for the huddle. Everybody is getting up there properly, they have a new motivation. That is the vibe I'm getting from them."

Though Graham is on the sideline, he has still been able to help Bennett, who is working on his speed, agility and reading defenses this spring.

"I always tell Ray to watch me, to see what I'm doing wrong," Bennett said. "Sometimes he just comes up and tells me you should have read the play a different way, or just to follow my instincts, or make a different cut. He has been a real big help."

Whenever Graham does come back, you can bet the two will be a big help to the Pitt offense.

Another weekend has arrived, which means one last look into the mailbag.

Rob in NJ All Day writes: Why isn't anyone talking about Jawan Jamison and the Rutgers' run game? Our run game got better as the year went on and Jamison was a stud over the last couple games, including the bowl game. With this unit adding (R.J.) Dill at right tackle and a healthy, much bigger and stronger (Dallas) Hendrickson at center, I think he will be the best running back in the league. Mark my words, AA, and let's check back at the end of next year.

Andrea Adelson: Well, that is a pretty bold statement, considering Ray Graham is coming back to the league. I do believe the run game will be better, and the offensive line will be better. But the truth is, Rutgers was the worst rushing team in the Big East last season and was plagued with inconsistency -- even with some of Jamison's better games. That's why nobody is talking about Jamison. Add Savon Huggins back into the mix, and there is a true competition at running back this spring. I don't think it is set in stone that Jamison is going to be the featured back, despite what he did late in the year. Coach Kyle Flood wants both of them ready.

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Steve in Rome, N.Y., writes: AA, what do you think of Doug Marrone's decision to close practices? On one hand the local media seems to have struck back by writing virtually nothing on the team, so I'm dying for info. On the other hand, it certainly builds the anticipation for the spring game for the true diehards like myself! Anyway, appreciate your thoughts, keep up the great work on the blog, and rememeber that San Diego is east of somewhere!

Adelson: East of Hawaii, indeed! I don't think it is fair to say the local media has struck back by writing nothing on the team. Not only has Marrone closed practice, he, his players and assistants have been unavailable for post-practice comments. So there is not much in the way of information coming out of Syracuse. I don't have a problem with coaches closing practice. Most only allow a 30-minute viewing period for media, anyway. Now this may sound a bit self-serving because I am in the media, but I think it does hurt when you make nobody available for comment. I truly believe it helps the program when you make yourself available for articles, blog posts, and interviews. Especially when the focus has been on basketball. Give your guys some pub, put the Syracuse name out there. Nobody is asking them to reveal state secrets, and I don't think anybody is looking to write anything with a poison pen. I have not written anything myself, because there is nothing to write. If that is the way Marrone prefers it, then so be it.

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Jake in Montreal writes: Tino Sunseri for HEISMAN??????....No, I'm kidding. Who do you think will be the starting quarterback for Pitt under the new pro-style offense?I'm thinking (Mark) Myers. I can't trust Sunseri with the team. You with me?

Adelson: Everything out of Pittsburgh indicates Sunseri is the man headed into fall practice. He's the most experienced of the group, and has actually had a pretty decent camp. Maybe Paul Chryst has already worked his magic.

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Nick G. in Wethersfield, Conn., writes: Andrea, I know a lot of people so far are basing predictions and what not off of last year's teams and players lost. It seems to me that everyone for the most part is down on UConn for 2012. I don't think UConn will be as bad as people say or think we are going to be. The secondary will be much improved not only with Blidi Wreh-Wilson being healthy but because a lot of the guys who had to step in where very, very young. Now they have the experience and playing time. The defensive line lost a couple of guys that where great players, but we got some big ones to replace them that can handle the job just as well (I don't think we'll lose a step on the DL). And the O-line lost a few but got a new center that was a transfer from Penn St. and (Jimmy) Bennett is going to be healthy now. We are much deeper at linebacker now. We have some great players at RB, and more talent at WR than years in the past. Only Concern is at QB, but Johnny McEntee has been doing well this spring but so have the other four guys. They are all really competing for the starting spot with some flashes af great play. I honestly think this team can be top half of the league this year and fighting for the BCS berth with the last 2-3 weeks of the year if they stay away from injuries and all play to their potential, unlike last year.

Adelson: I fully expect UConn to be better, Nick. I think another year in the system is going to help everybody. As I mentioned in my offensive line preview video, I think this group will be improved. But again, any time you have questions at quarterback, you have questions about your entire team. There are no proven playmakers at receiver, either, though I know Shakim Phillips looked good before getting hurt. Linebacker will be strong, but depth along the defensive line is a major question as well. I asked Wreh-Wilson about being overlooked in the Big East, and he basically told me it was the same old story. "We've never been picked high, so we don’t worry about that," he said. If I had to guess right now, I think UConn goes back to a bowl game. Just a little better play at quarterback makes a huge, huge difference.

Welcome to your midweek mailblog. Who's got questions?

Mike J. in Cincinnati writes: Since I've revealed my location, this question may seem a bit leading, but with WVU gone this season and the others not joining for another year, who is the "premier team" for the league? I realize it may be like asking for the skinniest kid at fat camp but I'd be interested to hear if you have any insight in terms of the national perception of the league this year (and who others see as the best team in the league).

Andrea Adelson: I don't think it's a secret the national perception takes a hit with West Virginia leaving. Cincinnati has had a great string of success, but the Bearcats are relative newcomers to the Big East and simply don't have that national cred, much to the consternation of the fans. I think Louisville or Rutgers has a shot at being ranked in the preseason Top 25, but neither of them have national cred, either. Plus, there are are no real big-name players in the league. Pitt running back Ray Graham might qualify, but the truth is there will be no Big East player mentioned on any Heisman watch lists. I know the Heisman hype is just hype, but people do pay attention to the names that are thrown out there. I know I have this "bad rap" of bashing the league, but the truth is there just isn't much excitement nationally over the Big East this season.

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Lloyd in San Diego writes: Andrea, last week a fellow Aztec fan hit the hammer on the head in regards to the lack of interest from recruits with SDSU's move to the Big East. I believe the bigger issues will come on the fan side. There is a lot of discontent among fans. As a football and basketball season ticket holder, I will no longer purchase, either, as I do not have much interest in watching a UConn, Memphis, SMU or UCF vs SDSU football match up (no offense to those schools) nor wanting to see the Aztecs play in the Big West in other sports. Basketball wise, it has been a treat to watch games in a packed house at Cox against the likes of UNLV, New Mexico, and etc. I am under the impression that SDSU has nothing to gain by going to the Big East with the changes to the BCS coming. The TV contract will not benefit West Coast viewers much in the sense that I will not get up at 9 to watch the Big East game of the week. For East Coast viewers, how many will stay up after midnight EST for a game played out here? Maybe it is time to really rethink this, we were a pawn for Boise State. Your thoughts on this? Can you understand from a SDSU fan prospective our dilemma?

Adelson: Well, you are right. San Diego State was brought in because Boise State wanted another team nearby, and BYU and Air Force said no. I totally understand the situation from a fan perspective. I think the idea of having game times from noon all the way until 10 p.m. is kinda ludicrous for the reasons you mentioned. There are going to be no real natural rivalries, so it will be hard to get up for the games. But for now, this really is the best decision for the program. Could that change down the line? We have learned to expect change from the conference landscape. The money and TV exposure are going to be better than what the Aztecs get now.

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Ken in Greenwich, Conn., writes: Andrea, Is there a reason that you skip over teams in your position review videos? If yes, then why and if no, same question, why? In your latest piece about O-lines, you didn't mention SU, UC or USF. Should we infer that these teams have no changes or questions about their offensive lines and they'll be great, or that they will be so bad there was no point in talking about them?

Adelson: The truth is, I have just about two minutes to try and squeeze all eight teams into my videos. If I don't mention a team, it means I don't think there is a major concern there. And yes, Syracuse, Cincinnati and USF had three of the best offensive lines last year, so I was focusing on teams that must be better in 2012. Same thing for the receiver video, in which I did not mention Louisville. I think there is talent and depth for the Cardinals. I only have one video left, and that is on special teams, so I can try to make mention of every school if folks would like that.

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WV Coal Miner in Morgantown, W. Va., writes: Andrea, I would like to reply to "Christopher Adamek," who previously chose to bash the state of WV while discussing the loss of the Backyard Brawl next season. I can appreciate his true hatred for our beautiful state, considering I am a lifelong WVU Fan and reciprocate the feelings towards Pitt, not the great state of PA though. Please inform him and other ignorant readers that simply, more than half of the nations electricity comes from coal-powered plants and the "horrible" state of WV is the leading producer of underground-mined coal in the nation. Therefore, next time he turns his computer on to check your blog, He Is Welcome!!!

Adelson: I know there were a few West Virginia fans who were upset I even included his comments in this mailbag. One angry reader emailed me to say she would never read the Big East blog again. First, I want to say these comments belong to the individuals who send them in, and in no way reflect my opinion. Putting them in the mailbag does not condone what he said, either. West Virginia is a fine place, and I have met many good folks at WVU who have always treated me kindly. Same goes for Pitt. That being said, I am glad you sent in your rebuttal.

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Eric in Cincinnati writes: Might want to add Sam Longo to the important transfer list. Sam came to Cincinnati from Ohio State and is expected to start this fall.... they were looking at him early in camp at center.

Adelson: Thanks, Eric. He has been working at center, though there have been many injuries on the offensive line this spring and the competition at some of those open positions is expected to last into fall camp. So don't pencil him in as a starter just yet!