Nebraska (24)

Nebraska gets the nod at 24 for a couple reasons, one they get to play a favorable Big-12 schedule not having to play Texas or Oklahoma State. Second, they were good last year (9-4 with a bowl win over struggling Clemson) and return most of their defense, and two of their 3 best running backs that combined for 1,200 yards and 13 TD's last season. They do lose their starting quarterback and number one receiver Joe Ganz and Nate Swift who produced 35 Td's between the two which makes the Huskers not able to accelerate that high into my preseason poll. Bo Pelini's third year should end with another bowl appearance but with a stacked upper tear in the Big-12 no BCS bowl will be in the sights for this Nebraska team. I expect they will go at least 3-1 in out of conference play against three sun belt teams and Virginia Tech. They definilty have a chance against VT though I have never been convinced by the top teams in the ACC these past few years. During conference play expect the huskies to lose to powerhouse Oklahoma and two of these three games at Colorado, at Kansas and at Missouri. leaving the Huskers at 8-4 and my preseason 24.
TOP PLAYERS
-Ndamuking Suh- Great name and great DT, should lead a great Defensive line, major questions at LB though.
-Roy Helu Jr.- starting RB last year averaged 6.4 YPC last yearwith over 800 yards, expect more touches as the Huskers rely more heavily on their run game.