By Pat Taggart Aug 17, 2007, 17:15 GMT
OFFENSE: Coach Kelly favors an offense that relies heavily on the pass. Although quarterback Dustin Grutza returns from last season, it appears that the job of starting signal caller belongs to Wake Forest transfer Ben Mauk. Grutza tossed 13 interceptions with only nine touchdown passes a year ago, so Mauk is expected to far exceed those numbers. Dominick Goodman caught 40 passes for 452 yards and five touchdowns in 2006, and he will be counted on to make big plays in the passing game along with fellow receiver Derrick Stewart. As for the ground attack, Greg Moore is coming off a 700-yard campaign, but Kelly will likely use a trio of runners rather than rely on just one guy.
DEFENSE: Cincinnati gave up fewer than 20 points per game a year ago, and the fact that eight defensive starters are back in place has to spark optimism among the fans. The entire starting defensive line from 2006 is in place, and end Trevor Anderson returns six sacks to the mix. Keep an eye on tackle Terrill Byrd, as the junior may be one of the best at his position in the nation by seasons end. Corey Smith and Leo Morgan are solid linebackers who figure to be consistent performers, while Haruki Nakamura shines from his free safety spot. The Bearcats were minus-six in turnover margin a year ago, and simply put, that stat has to improve.
SPECIAL TEAMS: Cincinnati does not have a sure thing at either kicker or punter to open camp, and that fact has to be viewed as a serious concern. Goodman and Stewart figure to provide some solid play in the return game though.
OUTLOOK: Cincinnati does not appear to be one of the stronger teams in the Big East this season, as West Virginia, Louisville and Rutgers seem to be far superior. Any success Kelly's troops enjoy this fall will depend on Mauk and Grutza, as only outstanding quarterback play will enable the Bearcats to overachieve.
© 2007 The Sports Network
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