Underachievers: The San Jose State defense reportedly smoked the offense in spring practices, which is good news for a team that lost their biggest defensive star in Dwight Lowery to the NFL. Look our for senior defensive back Christopher Owens to fill Lowery's place and become the biggest threat on defense for the Spartans.
Academic Suspension: There is no run offense at San Jose State. If the Spartans are going to contend for the WAC championship, they'll need to find one and soon. They also need their defense to pick up the pace, or they will be mired in the bottom half of the conference for another season.
Utah State
Coach: Brent Guy
2007: 2-10 overall, 2-6 in conference (7th)
Head of the Class: Utah State won their final two games of the season last year, both in conference. Perhaps some of that momentum will carry over into 2008 for the Aggies. The running game for Utah State could also turn out to be a surprise if they can shore up the offensive line and work on the pass game.
Underachievers: Nine starters return on a defense that gave up 450 yards a game last year. Utah State has signed some junior college prospects in their latest recruiting class, potentially giving them some fresh bodies in their weakest aspect, but just how much of an impact will these players have? They're hoping it'll be a big one.
Academic Suspension: The offense is a total mess. The defense had trouble stopping anybody last season. There is no established QB on this Utah State squad, and they could easily lose all four of their non-conference games without a fight. Once again, Utah State and Idaho will battle early in the season to determine who will be the 2008 WAC cellar dweller.
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Bold Prediction: Fresno State marches out of the regular season with an undefeated record and a BCS Bowl bid. If they can win all four tough non-conference games (UCLA, Rutgers, Wisconsin and Toledo), the only thing standing between them and a January bowl game is Boise State--Brian Szabelski
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