Although all seven teams will compete in the Sun Belt's inaugural season this fall, don't be surprised to see few introductions. With four teams migrating to the Sun Belt from the Big West Conference and the other three facing each other last year as Division I-A independents, league rivalries should develop fast.
Middle Tennessee and Idaho are early favorites to battle for the conference title and a trip to the New Orleans Bowl on Dec. 18. Led by Doak Walker Award candidate and 1,200-yard rusher Dwone Hicks, the Blue Raiders posted an impressive 6-5 record as an independent last season. Idaho returns most of its starters on the nation's eighth-ranked offense, and the Vandals own a dominating 15-3 all-time record against Sun Belt opponents. This duo may hear some footsteps from Tony Samuel's New Mexico State squad -- especially in close games. While the Aggies' 3-8 mark in 2000 may not appear threatening, NMSU lost its final four games by a combined total of only 20 points. The league's final four teams -- Arkansas State, Louisiana-Lafayette, Louisiana-Monroe and North Texas -- combined for six wins last season and will likely play musical chairs in the conference cellar.
Game of the Year: The Sun Belt title could be decided on Oct. 6, when Idaho makes the long haul to Murfreesboro, Tenn. to take on Middle Tennessee. The game should be an offensive showcase, with Idaho gunslinger John Welsh (3,171 yards passing in 2000) and Middle Tennessee wideout Kendall Newson (945 yards receiving) racking up points.
Offensive Player of the Year: Dwone Hicks, RB, Middle Tennessee. With 1,277 yards and 19 touchdowns in only his sophomore season, Hicks tops a conference that boasts several record-holders. Hicks reached the 100-yard mark in eight games in 2000, including a 311-yard explosion against Louisiana Tech, the second highest single-game total in Division I-A last season.
Defensive Player of the Year: Brad Kasell, LB, North Texas. In a conference stacked with offensive talent, Kasell should shine for the North Texas defense. The senior linebacker earned first-team All-Big West honors last season after racking up 115 tackles, four interceptions (one for a touchdown) and four forced fumbles. He also led North Texas with 112 tackles during his sophomore season.
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