2006 Big East Conference Preview

2006 Big East Football Predictions

The Big East isn’t all that big. Eight teams round out what is considered to be the sixth best conference in college football.

There are quality programs, such as West Virginia, which beat Georgia in the Sugar Bowl last year, and Louisville, which went to the Gator Bowl and lost to Virginia Tech. There are also former quality programs, such as Pittsburgh and Syracuse.

Rutgers is making a comeback and South Florida certainly has its moments. This year the major competition will be amongst Rutgers, South Florida, Louisville and West Virginia with Pittsburgh and Connecticut possibly involved in the fray.

Cincinnati is in the middle of rebuilding and will probably start to come around in another year, while Syracuse needs a few years to create a strong foundation on the frontline of its offense.

The Big East features numerous top running backs, including Michael Bush on Louisville, Steve Slaton on West Virginia, and Brian Leonard on Rutgers. But Rutgers has an extra punch at that position with the underrated 1,000-plus yard rusher Ray Rice in its backfield.

As far as quarterbacks are concerned, West Virginia’s Patrick White is the real thing and the same can be said about Louisville’s Brian Brohm. On the receiving end in the conference the edge goes to Rutgers due to their depth and talent. If sophomore QB Mike Teel can mature quickly watch out for the Scarlet Knights.

This year, West Virginia could possibly vie for the national championship, although Louisville will certainly have something to say about that when they meet in November. The Big East should have some surprises throughout the season, which will make for great contests and fine football.

Big East Predictions
1) Louisville
2) West Virginia
3) Rutgers
4) South Florida
5) Pittsburgh
6) Cincinnati
7) Connecticut
8) Syracuse

All 8 team previews are listed below. You will find info on the team by clicking on the team links including last years conference and overall record, schedule and overview and predictions of the university. For more on the 2006 Big East schools view the Big East website, or keep reading on the entire Big East Conference team previews from Maddux Sports below.