 "Photo: Associated Press")
No. 3 USC takes on Virginia this weekend with quarterback Mark Sanchez back in action after dislocating his left knee cap during practice. USC will be the favorite to win the season opener and make an impression on the national polls in this out-of-conference encounter. Virginia, on the other hand, seems to be still in the process of settling down under its new coach. But its hopes will be pinned on passer and Heisman contender Pat White, who can possibly win them a third Big East title in four years.
Tim Tebow and the Gators also begin their campaign this Saturday against Hawaii at the Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. They will look to add another national championship to their 2005-2006 success, while Tebow is aiming for back-to-back Heisman honors. But star receiver Percy Harvin and linebacker Brandon Spikes will most likely be out of the game due to injuries sustained during practice. Hawaii, led by a new coach Greg Mc-Mackin, will still face an uphill battle against the No. 5 Gators.
While over at Clemson, South Carolina, the No. 9 Tigers will be hosting No. 24 Alabama and start off as favorites to sink the Crimson Tide. Alabama freshman receiver Julio Jones will make his much-anticipated debut at the game. Clemson, on the other hand, will bank on running back James Davis, who currently holds the record for the most touchdowns by an active ACC player. Coach Tommy Bowden will also hope for quarterback Cullen Harper and running back C.J. Spiller to fire up and dominate the Crimson Tide.
Also, on Saturday, No. 20 Illinois goes up against Big 12 title favorite and No. 6 Missouri.
Chase Daniel will look to give the Tigers an ideal out-of-conference start ahead of a promising season that would see them gunning for Big 12’s ultimate prize after having lucked out last season against Oklahoma. Illinois, under the watchful eyes of coach Ron Zook, will have its work cut out as it try to beat the recharged Tigers.
Finally, on Monday, No. 18 Tennessee will battle it out against UCLA at the Rose Bowl. After a season when the Volunteers struggled away from home, this will be a crucial game that can determine their confidence in away games for the rest of the season. The Bruins, led by new coach Rick Neuheisel, will pose a formidable threat to Tennessee in their season opener. Despite their superior ranking, Tennessee is bound to face a tough time making it past UCLA, who has beaten five out of their previous six ranked opponents at the Rose Bowl.
Be the first to comment on this article!