'Noles On The Mind in 2009

Spring football is over around the country and as we embark on the dog days, the chirping on the college football landscape has begun. With the preseason annuals set to hit the newstands in just a few weeks, passions are beginning to simmer.

Not surprisingly, the Southeastern Conference banter tops the blogosphere, with Lane Kiffin of Tennessee verbally assaulting just about everyone. Steve Spurrier and Urban Meyer have been recent sparring partners for the unproven Kiffin. Given the embarrassing antics of Kiffin, I could see anyone who could hang half a hundred on the Vols doing just that.

Surprisingly, Florida State is feeling some heat; from Penn State fans. A Lions sportswriter claims the fix is in and FSU will keep all victories when the NCAA makes its ruling first week of June.

Handicapper Phil Steele has released his list of the toughest schedules for 2009, and the Seminoles are tops on the list. FSU is the only team whose opponents won over 100 games collectively. SEC powers Florida and Georgia are 43rd and 44th respectively. FSU will be much better in '09 but the record may not show it. On the warpath in 2010.

The Wall Street Journal, of all folks, had an intriguing story on how stellar offensive lines are a prelude to success. The study, which was well done, indicates that three teams who were projected to thrive in 2008, Missouri, Georgia and Clemson, all faltered behind inexperienced offensive lines. Four teams return over 80 starts this year. Virginia Tech, a top five pre-season lock, Notre Dame, Texas and Florida State, led by All America candidate Rodney Hudson, are the teams. I do place quite a bit of weight on experience up front, particularly if the team is breaking in a new signal caller.

There will be a lot to kick around over the summer. Athlons and Lindy's will be out first week of June. I'll wager on the Gators as the preseason top pick.