Academic Suspension: There's a bit of a quarterback controversy in Shreveport, with everyone seeking to replace last year's starter Zac Champion. If they can get that situation sorted out, then Louisiana Tech will improve by leaps and bounds. They may even be *gasp* bowl eligible this season.
Nevada
Coach: Chris Ault
2007: 6-7 overall, 4-4 in conference (T-4th)
Head of the Class: Luke Lippincott was the WAC's leading rusher last year, while wideout Marko Mitchell had a fantastic season in the "pistol" offense. With four returning linemen and incredible depth on the offensive end, Nevada may have the best offense in the entire conference. And that's including Boise State.
Underachievers: The Wolfpack have a potential star in senior linebacker Joshua Mauga, who comes back from injury. If he can stay healthy, he will be a big help. A new defensive coordinator brings along the 4-3 defense, but can Nevada get it going in time for the regular season?
Academic Suspension: Surprise, surprise, another WAC team with defensive worries. Nevada played host to a string of shootouts last season, something they can't afford to do if they want to contend for the WAC championship this season. They also have Grambling, Texas Tech, and Missouri for non-conference games. Ouch.
New Mexico State
Coach: Hal Mumme
2007: 4-9 overall, 1-7 in conference (8th)
Head of the Class: Chase Holbrook is nothing short of a beast. The Aggies' quarterback has been a WAC leader in offensive categories for two straight years, and will probably be a solid draft pick in the middle to later rounds next year. Joe Lee Dunn has been brought in to help shore up an abysmal defense, but can he make another miracle happen?
Underachievers: The Aggies get their wide receiving corps back, including senior Chris Williams, who has big-play potential and may become Holbrook's #1 target. A number of starters return on the offensive line and on defense, but for the latter, that might not be such a great thing…
Academic Suspension: I know I sound like a broken record, but defense, defense, defense. The Aggies did so little with Holbrook's amazing stats because they could not stop anybody. If Dunn can turn this team around, they can compete for a WAC championship. If not, they'll be throwing another season away.
San Jose State
Coach: Dick Tomey
2007: 5-7 overall, 4-4 in conference (T-4th)
Head of the Class: Kevin Jurovich, David Richmond and Jalal Beauchman return to lead a star wide receiving corps for the Spartans. Jurovich ranked in the top 10 in receiving yards per game last season. A similar performance this year will certainly help San Jose State to put more games in the win column.
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