10 Intriguing Spring Storylines

Author:
SI Staff
Publish date:
Mar 20, 2007

10 Intriguing Spring Storylines

Jimmy's crash course

One of the most highly regarded quarterback recruits in history, Clausen made national headlines when he committed to Notre Dame at the College Football Hall of Fame. The heir apparent to Brady Quinn, Clausen must quickly learn Charlie Weis' offense as he's expected to start next year. Unfortunately for the Domers, there are reports out that Clausen will miss the start of spring practice with an undisclosed arm injury.

Brohm's new offense

In three years under Bobby Petrino, Brian Brohm (right) threw for 6,751 yards (including 11 300-yard games) and 41 touchdowns. But Petrino left to coach the Falcons, and now Louisville's star signal-caller needs to grasp the offense of his new head coach Steve Kragthorpe (center).

'Bama's new boss

After a brief stint in the NFL with the Miami Dolphins, Nick Saban returns to the college ranks and inherits a team that lost a series of close games in 2006 and finished 6-7. Alabama's defense was very good last season (ranking 25th nationally), but the defensive-minded Saban will use the spring to infuse the unit with his patented aggressiveness.

Sooners' next signal-caller

Losing RB Adrian Peterson hurt, but at least the Sooners have a veteran runner to fill in (Allen Patrick). After the graduation of Paul Thompson, Oklahoma has no experience at quarterback. Coach Bob Stoops says it's a three-man race between Joey Halzle (pictured), Sam Bradford and Keith Nichol.

Arkansas' soap opera

After a 10-win season and an appearance in the SEC title game, the Razorbacks suffered a winter of high drama. Offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn, QB Mitch Mustain and WR Damian Williams are gone, athletic director Frank Broyles is on his way out and reigning SEC Coach of the Year Houston Nutt (pictured) is facing constant speculation about his job security. What will the spring hold?

Sunshine State QBs

In Gainesville, Tim Tebow (pictured) will be preparing to fully take the reins of Florida's offense. In Coral Gables, Kyle Wright and Kirby Freeman will battle it out for the starting spot. And in Tallahassee, new offensive coordinator Jimbo Fisher will try to help the 'Noles' underachieving duo (Drew Weatherford and Xavier Lee).

Ohio State's offense after the exodus

Heisman Trophy winner Troy Smith is gone and whoever wins the three-way QB competition between Todd Boeckman (pictured), Robbie Schoenhoft and Antonio Henton will have huge shoes to fill. On top of that, Ted Ginn Jr., Anthony Gonzalez and Antonio Pittman all left early for the NFL.

Big Red's backfield

Arizona State transfer Sam Keller is expected to take over behind center after the graduation of Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year QB Zac Taylor, but coach Bill Callahan claims the competition is still wide open. Nebraska had a number of issues with its running backs. Brandon Jackson left early for the NFL, Cody Glenn and Kenny Wilson both suffered injuries and Marlon Lucky (pictured) was hospitalized in critical condition for an unspecified reason.

Michigan's new D

The Wolverines lost seven starters off a unit that led the nation in rushing defense, including standouts Alan Branch, LaMarr Woodley, Dave Harris and Leon Hall. Needless to say, spring practice should be competitive in Ann Arbor. At least Shawn Crable (pictured), team leader in tackles last season, will return.

USC's new crop of receivers

While USC will return star QB John David Booty, the Trojans lost two of the best receivers in America in Dwayne Jarrett and Steve Smith, who combined to catch 141 balls for 2,098 yards and 21 touchdowns last season. Booty will use the spring to gain a good rapport with Vidal Hazelton (7) and Patrick Turner (1).