Big 12 North preview

Colorado has seen a trend of underachieving seasons since winning the Big 12 North in 2005. Last season, they did not live up to high expectations and finished 5-7. This year, coach Dan Hawkins has most of his skill players back on offense but lost depth in the offensive line department.

The Buffs also lost a lot on defense, if the team can pull some upsets in an always difficult Big 12 they have the potential to be bowl eligible. If they do not reach the post season, Hawkins could have a hot seat by the end of the year.

Iowa State has never really been a winner and even though they have a new coach, Paul Rhodes, things might not get any better. The one thing they have going for them is a cupcake schedule.

Iowa State plays only one 2008 bowl team in their first five games – all but one at home. But with a 2-10 season last year, the expectations will stay extremely low and this could allow Iowa State to surprise many in the fall.

Kansas has built a winning program in basketball country. With the Orange Bowl win two years ago and a respectable 8-5 mark last year, Kansas looks to continue their winning ways. Quarterback Todd Reesing returns along with tailback Jake Sharp in the backfield which gives the offense a lift. The only thing really holding them back is a murderous schedule. I think they will have a very similar season to 2008.

Kansas State brought back legendary coach Bill Snyder to the sidelines, in an attempt to return the Wildcats to past glory. Josh Freeman, a 2008 NFL first round pick, is gone, but if the quarterback situation works out, this team could be a huge surprise because they have a playmaking defense. I see an average season that will produce a bowl game, but nothing further.

Missouri must somehow deal with the loss of its two best players in Jeremy Macklin and Chase Daniel. Newcomers on offense will have to figure out tough opponents and carry a Tiger team that traditionally struggles on defense. Mizzou could be respectable, but I think the program takes a serious step back in 2009.

Nebraska could be a team to look out for. Bo Pelini surprised many in his first season back in Lincoln with a 9-4 finish. He will have to replace quality players on offense, but he has a playmaking defense that could resemble great Husker defenses of old. Nebraska does have to play Virginia Tech, but other than that, they have a manageable out of conference schedule. The Cornhuskers also avoid games with elite south division teams such as Texas and Oklahoma State. The Huskers could have a huge year.