2006 Utep Miners Football Preview

Welcome to Maddux's 2006 Utep Miners season preview. As usual we have taken the time to break down the team, while providing information about the university, and the 2006 Utep Miners Football Schedule. If you are wagering on college football this season consider using Maddux Sports' College football picks for the added edge over the sportsbooks in 2006. In addition be sure to visit our college football odds line service for the upcoming season.

Coach: Mike Price (3rd year at Utep)
Team Name: Miners
2005 Overall Record: 8-3
2005 Conference USA Record 5-3
Returning Starters: 16

This is a team that seemed to lose gas down the stretch with loses to UAB, SMU and Toledo in the GMAC Bowl. QB Jordan Palmer (258 COMP, 434 ATT, 3,503 YDS, 29 TDs, 19 INTS) was on target at the start of the season but then succumb to the interception bug. Eight of his 19 errant throws occurred in the final 3 games.

But Palmer looks like he’s back and his offensive line, which is talented and deep, should give him sound protection. Senior WR Johnnie Lee Higgins (49 REC, 837 YDS, 9 TDs) is ready to have an explosive season, while junior TB Marcus Thomas (149 CARR, 791 YDS, 5 TDs) is ready to lead the rushing game.

The defense returns 10 starters, including WLB Jeremy Jones (130 tackles) and defensive end Alex Obomese (6.5 sacks). The safeties, junior Quintin Demps (3 INTS) and senior Joe Fleskoski (3 INTS), will be tough to beat. The senior defensive line will be solid.

Palmer suffered from a separated shoulder in his non-throwing arm last year. He’s healthy and has the potential to elevate the team’s post-season and his NFL stock. Texas Tech will be tough to beat, while swing games against San Diego State, Houston and Tulsa will be true tests. Look for this club to be in a bowl once again.

Utep Miners 2006 Schedule

Date	Opponent	Home/Road
Aug 31	San Diego State	Road
Sep 9	Texas Tech	Home
Sep 23	New Mexico	Road
Sep 30	New Mexico State	Home
Oct 7	SMU	Home
Oct 14	Tulane	Home
Oct 21	Houston	Road
Oct 27	Tulsa	Road
Nov 4	Rice	Home
Nov 10	UAB	Road
Nov 18	Marshall	Road
Nov 25	Memphis	Home

 

For more data on the 2006 Utep football program, view the Miners team website or check out some more schools below.