2007 Non BCS Teams Football Preview

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We've put together a list of 14 teams—Independents and those not in any of the six top BCS conferences. These clubs will all be competitive and contenders for the post-season.

Both Navy and Notre Dame—Independents—will be adjusting to important issues regarding experience. Brady Quinn is no longer the Irish QB, while the Midshipmen need to replace all but two starters on defense.

Two teams from the Western Athletic Conference made out list—Boise State and Hawaii. The Boise State Broncos are vulnerable to the massive passing attack mounted by Colt Brennan and the Warriors. On the other hand, Hawaii will have a tough time stopping State's running attack. Both teams should win their share of games.

A trio of teams represents the Mountain West Conference—TCU, BYU and Utah. The BYU Cougars possess a dynamic offense and stingy defense. Their passing game wears teams down. The TCU Horned Frogs are still determining their QB situation, but they return with the second-best defense in the country. The Utah Utes have a difficult schedule and their pass "D" is lacking. Still this is a team that will win more than it will lose.

Three teams from Conference USA look like contenders. The Houston Cougars score points on the ground and in the air. They look primed to take C-USA West. However, the Tulsa Golden Hurricane will compete with the Cougars for the title. They have a dynamic running game and a resilient, tough "D." In the East division, Southern Mississippi sports a steamroller offense that piles up yards and a defense that shuts down opponents.

Four clubs from the Mid-American Conference—Central Michigan, Western Michigan, Toledo and Kent State— have bowl potential. Western Michigan, Central Michigan and Toledo represent the West, while Kent State is in the East division.

The Central Michigan Chippewas return with sophomore QB Dan LeFevour at the helm. He was impressive in his freshman season. The defense has improved the secondary but has some question marks upfront. Western Michigan is unsure of who will be their quarterback. Their offensive line and running game look solid and the Broncos' defense is talented and hard working.

The Toledo Rockets faltered big time last season. Experience at quarterback should help them win more games in 2007. The defense has to play more competitively. The secondary looks better but the defensive frontline is worrisome.

Look for the Kent State Golden Flashes to be the team to beat in the MAC East. They've got a load of talented, experienced players returning, an excellent running game and a sound defense. This may be Kent States best season in years.