NCAA Football: Week 5 Preview

Twelve Teams That Can Shape This Season

There were no changes in the top 3 from last week outside of USC jumping Iowa State. This week, I’ll bring you the next 3 up.

4. Navy

The Midshipmen are a long shot to make a run this season, but don’t overlook them if the bigger named programs stumble down the stretch. They will need to lean on their defense to keep their conference leading ground attack effective (375 yds/game). Their focal point is Alex Tecza, who has put up 272 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns 3 games. That defense has held opponents to less than 320 yards and 20 points per game behind Landon Robinson putting pressure up the middle with 3.5 sacks this year. They’ve managed to amass 44 points on offense; look for them to hold strong in the top 12 for a while until the annual match up with Notre Dame. Although a test against the week prior may break them before even seeing the Irish.

5. Georgia Tech

Will there be a changing of the guard in the ACC? The Yellowjackets made their case by stunning Clemson a week ago. They can contend for a title as they have neither Florida State or Miami on their slate. Early upstarts, Virginia and Syracuse are also absent from the schedule. The offensive production is 3rd behind the aforementioned Seminoles and Cavaliers. The leaders pushing the Rambling Wreck down the field are Haynes King (7 total TDs) and Jamal Haynes (107 yds on 12 touches vs Temple). Can they hold on to their defensive production against the high powered teams in the conference? So far they are middle of the road in yards allowed, and allowing nearly 20 points can put them in a tight spot if there is GT offensive struggle down the road.

6. Houston

The most impressive defense of this group resides in Houston. The Cougs have only given up double digit points to Colorado so far. The impressive showing may continue with the winless Oregon State Beavers next on the schedule. The Big XII is wide open early on, but these Cougars are only allowing their opponents to compile 224 yards a contest. Dean Connors looked like a stud against Rice enough to put him in the top 5 rushers in the conference. Houston will open October hosting an impressive Texas Tech that can shape the top of the Big XII and put them on pace to grab a run to a title.

Games to Watch:

Ohio State v. Washington; Auburn v. Texas A&M; Florida State v. Virginia; Tennessee v. Mississippi State; Oregon v. Penn State