Garnet & Cocky’s Preseason Top 25 Rankings
By Rixon Lane
25. Michigan Wolverines
Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
The Wolverins have fallen back into the middle of the pack in the Big Ten, looking up at teams like Ohio State and Michigan State. That won’t sit well with Maize & Blue fans, who are going to demand more from Brady Hoke’s squad than another 7-6 season.
24. Nebraska Cornhuskers
Bruce Thorson-USA TODAY Sports
Nebraska has plenty of talent, but it will need steady play from the offensive line and quarterback Tommy Armstrong if the Huskers are going to reach the Big Ten title game. A strong defensive front seven should make life a little easier for the offense.
23. Kansas State Wildcats
Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
The Wildcats finished strong last season, winning six of their final seven after a 2-4 start. Kansas State has enough playmakers to get back to double-digit wins in 2014 and quarterback Jake Waters, while no Collin Klein, is a capable signal-caller.
22. Texas Longhorns
Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Texas played in the national championship just four years ago and the Horns are hoping to make it back to that level under new head coach Charlie Strong. Quarterback David Ash is a game-manager, but Texas needs more behind center if it is to become an elite program again.