We know who the top teams are supposed to be this season. But here are five college teams that deserve watching:
1. UTAH UTES » Many experts are picking BYU to be this year’s breakthrough team from the Mountain West Conference, but look for Utah, which returns eight starters on offense and six on defense from a 9-4 team to stun the experts.
2. COLORADO BUFFALOES » The addition of freshman running back Darrell Scott gives the Buffs an immediate boost offensively. In a weak Big 12, they could sneak into the league championship game.
3. CINCINNATI BEARCATS » They’ll be dangerous if quarterback Ben Mauk is granted another year of eligibility by the NCAA. If he returns, they could contend for the Big East championship.
4. NORTHWESTERN WILDCATS » Returning starting quarterback C.J. Bacher, check. Returning starting rusher Tyrell Sutton, check. If the Wildcats play defense, they could land a quality bowl game.
5. MISSISSIPPI REBELS » If transfer quarterback Javon Snead lives up to his recruiting hype, the Rebels will qualify for a bowl and upset a top-10 conference rival.
