Jacob Bunn's 2011 Big East Football Preview
Posted on August 4, 2011 by Jacob Bunn
Notes –
This is the final season that the Big East will be only eight teams deep. Next year, TCU will be a player in the conference. The Big East has possessed automatic qualification to the BCS since the bowl series’ inception in 1998. Lately, though, a series of disappointing representations to the BCS has left many wondering how long the Big East will maintain its automatic bid. Last year’s subpar showing (by team and fans) by Connecticut in the Fiesta Bowl was no exception to this development. So, this could be a crucial year in determining how seriously the Big East will be taken in the future.
Biggest Surprise: Rutgers
Several years ago, Greg Schiano was thought of as the best coach yet to make the move to an elite program. He has not budged from Rutgers, but it seems the coaching rumor mill has forgotten about him. I think coach Schiano will get his team back on the national scene this year.
Biggest Disappointment: Cincinnati
Since the Bearcats last played in a BCS game, January of 2010, they have struggled. This year will be no different with many difficult games on the road. Another tough season awaits second year head coach Butch Jones.
Game to Watch: Pittsburgh at West Virginia (November 25)
This Friday after Thanksgiving matchup will be a must-see for sure if you are a college football fan. The ‘backyard brawl’ as it is referred to is always a very intense contest and is a unique rivalry. I think the game will determine the Big East championship this year, and I predict West Virginia will win the game.
Champion: West Virginia
I think West Virginia has the kind of team that is needed to win the Big East this year. The game against Pittsburgh in Morgantown will be for the league championship, and I think West Virginia will win it. However, I do not believe the Mountaineers will go through their schedule without incurring two or more losses. LSU will be a tough test for sure, and I would not be surprised if South Florida does not defeat them on the final weekend of the season as a result of lingering emotion from the big win over Pittsburgh. This will leave the Big East still awaiting its first appearance in the BCS Championship Game.
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Email Jacob at jacob@bunnsports.com and follow him on Twitter at @JacobBunn
