KANSAS JAYHAWKS O:7 D:3

The Fighting Manginos had a marvelous 2005 campaign. They won a total of seven games and won their first bowl game under the tutelage of HC Mark Mangino romping Houston in the Fort Worth Bowl. When he took over the Jayhawk program back in 2002, Kansas was the doormat of the Big 12. That hasn’t been the case the last couple of seasons; especially in ’05. Last year’s squad was commanded by its defense as it only gave up 22 PPG and a little over 300 YPG. That won’t be the case this year with only three returning starters, but the offense will be much better and it should easily topple the 22 PPG it averaged last season. KU’s QB position has been nothing short stale the last few year’s. Four QB’s saw action last season and it looks as if Adam Barmann and Kerry Meier will battle it out to lead what should be a potent attack. Canadian RB Jon Cornish is back for his senior campaign, and he’ll look to become the first 1000-yard rusher since 1997. The O-Line looks to be the best unit under Mangino’s reign, so look for the Jayhawks ground and air games to flourish this season. Both the D-Line and secondary has former starters returning to action, but the LB corps loses its three top tacklers and top sack man. Overall, the defensive stats should drop off, but not as much as most would think since the coaching staff has recruited much better than in year’s past. The special teams look fantastic as it boasts a pair of top-notch Big 12 legs in K Scott Webb and P Kyle Tucker.