Let's get down to brass tax right out of the gate.  Yes, the USF Bulls are for real, and yes, they can contend for the Big East championship THIS SEASON.

     Perhaps some of you are thinking I'm losing my mind.  On the contrary, the chances are I lost that some time ago, but still have the faculties to decifer a pretender from a contender. 

    Here's why:

    The Bulls offense has the entire offensive line returning.  Matt Grothe is back at QB.  They have a stable of running backs that are clearly the best in the BIG EAST.  You want to argue, bring it on!  Their wide receivers are capable, not elite caliber, but defintely capable.

    Defensively, you never question a Jim Leavitt's coached team in this area.  Ben Moffitt is on the Butkus Award watch list.  The kid's a stud.  Mike Jenkins and Trae Williams are likely the best cornerback tandems, certainly in the BIG EAST, if not the nation.

    Special teams should get more special moments from kicker Delbert Alvarado.  His range is uncanny.  A huge plus on the road in big games.

    Schedule:  The Bulls have West Virginia and Louisville at home this season.  Only Rutgers, the other team among the top four, is on the road. 

    Weaknesses: Punting -  Hopefully Justin Teachey has improved.  Offensive Line -  Depth could be a problem there.

    Al in all, don't be surprised if the Bulls make a run this season.  After Elon, the real season begins with a roadie at Auburn. 

    Tom Korun